By Roger Jimenez
While Orlando's theme parks dazzle with their extravagant holiday celebrations, there's a different kind of magic waiting to be discovered off the beaten path.
At the center of this vibrant city is an abundance of festive delights, all offering a unique blend of local traditions, community spirit, and seasonal wonders.
Join us on a journey through the lesser-known corners of Orlando, where the holiday spirit comes alive in charming markets, twinkling neighborhoods, and heartwarming holiday events.
Christmas @ Gaylord Palms
Nov. 17 - Jan. 3
$15 - $40 (depending on activity chosen)
Explore the magical ICE! Event at Gaylord Palms, showcasing breathtaking ice sculptures inspired by A Charlie Brown Christmas. Kids can enjoy a Cirque-styled Christmas show, embark on a Snoopy Scavenger Hunt, and get creative at the gingerbread decorating corner. Guests can also experience the thrill of ice tubing at Snow Flow Mountain, test their wits in the Naughty or Nice Escape Room, and capture memories with photos with Santa. Click here to check their website for ticket availability!
Dazzling Nights @ Leu Gardens
Nov. 24 - Jan. 6
$22 - $25
Walk into the magical realm of Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens, featuring enchanting lights, interactive displays, and captivating sculptures! Revisit favorites like Moroccan Lanterns and jump-activated lights, and venture through a 70-foot light tunnel. Delight in new attractions, including a spectacular light show, a towering tree, and a unique Winter Florida display! Paired with holiday treats and beverages, this is sure to create a memorable holiday experience.
Winter on the Avenue & Christmas Parade @ Park Avenue
Dec.1 - 2
FREE
Celebrate the magic of the season at Winter On The Avenue beginning the first of December! Enjoy the tree-lighting, carolers, menorah lighting, s'mores, and festive activities as Park Avenue transforms for the holidays. The celebration continues the next day with the 71st annual Winter Park Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade, featuring local organizations, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. Don't miss these beloved holiday traditions!
Candlelight: Holiday Special @ The Abbey
Dec. 6, 13, 20
$35 - $55
Experience the enchantment of live musical performances like never before with The Abbey’s Candlelight Concerts! Join other music lovers at The Abbey for an unforgettable evening featuring the timeless melodies of The Nutcracker and other Yuletide tunes, all illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight!
Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Holiday Festival @ Boxi Park
Dec. 7 - 23
FREE
Discover holiday enchantment at Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival in Lake Nona Town Center! Enjoy festivities like the Hanukkah Celebration, Peppermint Square SnowDays, Christmas Carnival, and Nightly Entertainment with Peppermint the Penguin. Visitors can enjoy the free Evergreen Tree Trail, indulge in treats at Holiday Market Way, or unwind at the Fa La La La Winter Bar! Don’t forget the live acrobatics and magical musical performances.
SantaCon 2023
Dec. 9, 1 PM
$15
Orlando SantaCon 2023 is a holiday extravaganza that unites Santas, elves, and festive enthusiasts in a celebration across Orlando’s bar crawl scene! Join the sea of red and white as thousands of Santas gather in December for a day of merrymaking! Creative costumes and spirited pub-hopping define this event, but with a focus on safety and spreading smiles, Orlando SantaCon 2023 promises a jolly adventure for all. Get ready to embark on a memorable holiday journey and let the festivities commence!
Milk Mart: Holiday Market
Dec. 17, 12 PM
FREE
Embrace the holiday cheer at Milk Mart's last market for the year, the annual Holiday Market! It's the final chance for last-minute festive shopping with over 80 local vendors offering a variety of unique goods. Don't miss out on this joyful opportunity to find the perfect gifts just days before Christmas!
Overall
Discover the magic of Orlando's holiday season! Explore the enchanting Festival of Trees at OMA, the breathtaking ICE! Event at Gaylord Palms, and the sparkling Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens. Join the Winter on the Avenue festivities and the beloved Winter Park Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade. Experience live musical enchantment at The Abbey's Candlelight Concerts and indulge in the festive fun at Lake Nona’s Holiday Festival. Don't miss the spirited SantaCon 2023 bar crawl and find last-minute treasures at Milk Mart's Holiday Market. Let the festive celebrations begin!
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