By Cassady Quintana
The holiday season in Orlando is nothing short of festive, with countless holiday events happening across the city. From exciting neighborhood gatherings to magical offerings, here’s your guide to the best Orlando has to offer this December.
Neighborhood Events
Now Snowing in Celebration
Experience the magic of snow in Florida at Celebration Town Center’s 24th Annual Now Snowing event! This holiday tradition runs nightly from November 26 through December 31, transforming Celebration into a winter wonderland complete with Central Florida’s original “snowfall” event.
Visitors can enjoy one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, along with special community performances by talented local artists and concerts throughout the season. The festivities include nightly snowfalls at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 PM. Walk through the town’s streets, where you’ll encounter Charles Dickens-style carolers, take photos with Santa, and enjoy horse-drawn carriage and train rides. It’s a nostalgic, family-friendly celebration perfect for all ages.
Christmas in the Park – Winter Park
On December 5, from 6:15 pm to 8:30 pm, Winter Park will come alive for the 46th annual Christmas in the Park, a holiday tradition hosted by the Morse Museum. This unique celebration lights up Central Park with Tiffany windows from the museum’s rare collection, creating a magical atmosphere under the stars.
Originally founded by museum benefactors Hugh and Jeannette McKean in 1979, the event was created as a way to share their stunning Tiffany collection with the public. Today, Christmas in the Park is co-sponsored by the Morse Museum and the City of Winter Park, featuring live performances by the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble for a night of timeless holiday music and beauty.
Image Credit: My Central Florida Family
Baldwin Park Winter Wonderland Extravaganza
Get ready for Baldwin Park’s Winter Wonderland Extravaganza on December 7 along New Broad Street! This family-friendly event will feature a tree lighting ceremony, a parade, local food vendors, live music, and photos with Santa. The event kicks off at 4:00 pm and goes until 8:00 pm, with the parade set to begin around 6:45 pm. Join the community for an evening full of holiday cheer and fun for all ages!
Bars
Jojo’s ShakeBAR Winter Wonderland
For a sweet twist on holiday spirits, Jojo’s ShakeBAR serves festive-themed milkshakes and drinks that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious. Decked out in holiday decor, this spot is great for a casual holiday outing with friends or family. The colorful ambiance and unique menu items make it one of the season’s trendiest holiday hangouts.
Miracle on Orange Pop-Up Bar
Orlando’s Miracle on Orange Pop-Up Bar at the Courtesy is a seasonal favorite for locals and visitors, bringing a cozy holiday vibe with over-the-top decorations, themed cocktails, and holiday tunes. Every year, the bar transforms into a festive escape that’s perfect for a holiday night out. It is recommended to book a reservation online. If you don’t have a reservation they suggest getting there early for a better chance of getting in or getting on the waitlist. Groups or 4 or more are challenging to seat without a reservation.
ICEBAR Orlando
ICEBAR Orlando offers a frosty, wintry atmosphere year-round, but it goes all out during the holiday season. Inside this ice-themed bar, you can enjoy unique cocktails in a fully frozen environment, complete with ice sculptures and themed drinks. For a full experience, check out the Fire Lounge next door, where cozy holiday vibes and a warming atmosphere balance out the icy experience.
Other Holiday Attractions
ICE! at the Gaylord Palms
An Orlando favorite, ICE! at the Gaylord Palms features an elaborate display of ice sculptures and interactive experiences. This year’s theme, Elf, will be brought to life through hand-carved sculptures, walk-through ice tunnels, and themed rooms. Make sure to bundle up – it’s a frosty 9 degrees inside! This attraction is family-friendly, and visitors can also enjoy the Gaylord’s other holiday festivities. Tickets are available from November 15, 2024 – January 4, 2025.
Image Credit: Gaylord Palms
Festival of Trees – Orlando Museum of Art
The Orlando Museum of Art’s annual Festival of Trees is a beautiful display of more than 30 professionally decorated holiday trees, wreaths, and more. Visitors will also participate in the Entertaining and Design tablescapes raffle, Silent Auction, photo ops with Santa and more. In addition, there will be a holiday shopping experience in our Toyland, pop-up Boutique as well as live entertainment throughout the event. Don’t miss the 38th annual Festival of Trees, Let the Joy of the Season Shine, November 16-24.
Christmas Movies at the Enzian Theater
For a cozy holiday night out, visit the Enzian Theater, which screens classic Christmas movies beginning December 4. It’s a nostalgic experience, complete with comfy seating, a relaxed atmosphere, and festive treats. Whether you’re a fan of Home Alone, A Christmas Story, or Elf, you’re sure to find something that fits your holiday spirit.
Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens transforms into a magical light experience with Dazzling Nights, a holiday event where you can stroll through beautiful garden paths illuminated by over-the-top light displays. Complete with music, interactive displays, and beautiful scenery, it’s an immersive experience that captures the wonder of the season and is perfect for couples, families, and friends. Tickets must be purchased for a specific date and time between November 29 - January 5.
Overall
Orlando’s holiday season is packed with festive events for all ages, offering everything from cozy neighborhood gatherings to dazzling theme park extravaganzas. No matter if you’re seeking classic holiday traditions, festive nightlife, or family-friendly fun, the city has something special to make your season bright. So gather your loved ones, explore the festivities, and create unforgettable holiday memories right here in Orlando!
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