Read Time: 13 mins.
Table of Contents
Introduction
When it comes to Christmas in Orlando, you’re in for a real holiday pleasure. It’s like walking into a snow globe, minus the snow.
Not having to scrape ice off my windshield is reason enough to celebrate, but there’s so much more. The whole city flips a switch, and boom – festive vibes. There’s something to dazzle your eyes or warm your heart everywhere you look.
The theme parks are a must, don’t get me wrong, but I live for those off-the-beaten-path spots that only the locals know. You can’t help but get caught up in the joy, from giant Christmas trees that tower over you to roller coasters dressed up in their holiday best and the most charming holiday traditions that make Orlando feel like home. I promise that once you experience Christmas here, you’ll be counting down to next year.
Want to dive deeper?
Read How to Spend Christmas in Orlando to make your Christmas holiday magical.
Things To Do In Orlando For Christmas 2024
Let me take you on a tour of the fantastic Christmas experiences in Orlando. As someone who loves the festive spirit and all the amazing holiday events, I can tell you firsthand that Orlando knows how to celebrate Christmas like no other.
Here’s the scoop on what to do and why you should check them out:
1. Enjoy Orlando Christmas Boat Parades
If you’re wondering what things to do during Christmas in Orlando, the boat parades are a must-see. Who wouldn’t want to watch a bunch of boats lit up like Christmas trees cruising down our beautiful lakes? It’s like the holidays jumped on the water.
Winter Park’s “Ye Olde Hometown” parade is the biggest (my wife’s and my favorite), but Lake Conway and Lake Monroe offer their stunning display. Plus, the good thing is that these parades float through early December and are free to watch.
2. Experience “Now Snowing” at Celebration Town Center
I know, I know snow in Florida? It sounds crazy, but the Celebration Town Center brings snow to the Sunshine State every night with their “Now Snowing” event. It’s a nightly snowfall right on Market Street.
You’ve got ice skating, horse-drawn carriages, and plenty of Christmas lights to feel like you’re in a winter wonderland. The show starts at 4 pm daily, but you can expect snowfalls between 6 pm and 9 pm from November through December.
3. Explore Santa’s Winter Wonderland Village
I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for the charm of classic amusement parks, especially when they’re all dressed up for Christmas. Santa’s Winter Wonderland Village in Waterford Lakes is a haven for anyone looking for free things to do in Orlando during Christmas.
It’s open Fridays through Sundays until 22nd December and is free to enter, but don’t forget cash for the rides and food. You’ll find classic amusement rides like the Ferris wheel, photos with Santa, and even a Toys for Tots donation center. Follow their Facebook page to stay updated.
4. Visit Gaylord Palms
Let me tell you, if you want to go all out this Christmas, head over to Gaylord Palms. I’m serious; they’ve got this ICE! Featuring Charlie Brown Christmas, which is just jaw-dropping. Plus, walking through a world of ice sculptures (think life-size), frozen slides and tunnels is the best experience your children could have.
But the place is more this. Tubing, a light show, and even a Christmas escape room for adult entertainment. It runs from mid-November to early January, so you’ve got plenty of time to fit it into your holiday plans.
5. Celebrate Christmas at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Okay, Potterheads, this one’s for you. Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one event you can’t miss.
Walking through Hogsmeade with all the lights and festive décor will make you feel like you are part of the Harry world. In contrast, the Diagon Valley reflects the best Christmas cheer, putting up amazing themed holiday performances like Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck. It’s open from November through January and is the perfect way to spend Christmas if you’re a Harry Potter fan (or even if you’re not).
Suggested Reading → Guide to Harry Potter World Orlando
6. Have Fun at OH WHAT FUN!
Now, if you’re after a truly family-friendly holiday event that’s also super affordable, Lake Nona’s OH WHAT FUN! is where you wanna be. This place is jam-packed with holiday activities. There’s an ice-skating rink (under twinkling lights), live music, live shows, and a super cute mailbox where you can drop off your letter to Santa.
And the good thing?
It’s free.
Free admission, free parking, and lots of smiles all around.
However, remember to bring your camera and cash for food trucks. You’ll find it bustling with holiday joy from 11:00 am– 10:00 pm Fridays through Sundays from 7th to 23rd December.
7. Have a Magical Christmas at Disney World
Disney’s Christmas celebration is off-the-charts amazing. If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando this Christmas that will blow your mind, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney World is the event. We’re talking next-level holiday decorations, over 600 Christmas trees, nine miles of garland, and don’t even get me started on the Mickey-themed fireworks.
There’s also a Christmas parade where it snows on Main Street. Yes, you read that right: snow at Disney. It’s a little pricey, but it’s worth it if you’re a Disney fan. Plus, there are Disney meet-and-greets and all-you-can-eat cookies and cocoa. The magic starts in November and runs through early January.
8. Delight in Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
Leu Gardens transforms into a glowing wonderland with Dazzling Nights. Stroll through a 70-foot candy cane tunnel, watch a laser light show and winter Florida display, and enjoy festive tunes in the beautiful botanical gardens.
This interactive holiday light experience runs from 20 November through 10 January, and tickets start around $25. It’s perfect for a magical night out with your date partner.
9. Colorful Christmas at Crayola Experience
If you’re looking for a festive, kid-friendly thing to do in Orlando, Crayola is where it is. It’s creative, colorful, and loads of fun, running from 18 November through 25 January, 12-6pm daily.
There are singing trees, animatronic characters, and tons of holiday crafts. It’s a colorful way to spend a festive afternoon, and your kids will love making their own Christmas cards to take home. Just a bit of local advice: Be quick to snag tickets ahead of time, as they sell out fast.
10. Join the Grinchmas festivities
If you love The Grinch, you’ll want to head to Universal for Grinchmas. The Holiday Spectacular is so much fun, with live performances and the chance to meet the Grinch himself. The shows run from December to January from 12 pm to 6 pm, six days a week, so there’s plenty of time to see this whimsical celebration.
11. Catch a Christmas Special Performance
For a touch of culture, you can’t go wrong with one of Orlando’s Christmas performances. Last year, I went to The Nutcracker by the Russian Ballet, which was outclassed. Honestly, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. However, if ballet isn’t your thing, you can check out A Christmas Carol or the Violectric Holiday Show. Whichever you choose, don’t forget to book your seats in advance; they sell out fast.
12. Explore Legoland’s holiday attractions
Christmas at Legoland is one of the best indoor things to do in Orlando at Christmas. They set up a 30-foot-tall LEGO Christmas tree that sparkles with a 360-degree light show. I mean, it doesn’t get much cooler than that, right?
Plus, it has many activities and seasonal shows, and you can meet LEGO Santa and his toy soldiers. It’s a must-see for little tots and teens (like my two).
13. Snap a Christmas Couples’ Selfie
The Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art is recommended for a more romantic, sophisticated holiday vibe. If you’re looking for a date night in Orlando this Christmas, there is no better place.
Last year, my partner and I took many selfies before the designer-inspired trees. They all beautifully shined out more beautifully than the last. We also buy some since my wife wants it to display at home. It was one of those well-spent days we still cherish.
14. Spend Nights at Live H20 Water Park
H20 WP is not your typical Christmas, which makes it so cool. I went with some friends, and we felt like kids again. There’s so much to do: train rides, visiting Santa, and sipping hot cocoa while watching the lights dance around you. Whether with family or friends, this is a fun way to mix holiday cheer with Florida’s warm weather.
15. Dine In with Santa at Maria & Enzo’s
Want to start your day with a bit of magic?
Head to Maria & Enzo’s in Disney Springs for Breakfast with Santa. Not only will you enjoy an incredible Italian breakfast feast, but you’ll also get to meet Santa himself. The views of Lake Buena Vista make it even more special. With 2 options, gold and platinum, costing $45-$79, it’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday morning.
Plus, the little ones get treats to take home; how cute is that?
16. Say Hi to Santa at the Mall
It might sound old-school, but visiting Santa at the mall is a tradition I can’t miss. The shopping malls in Orlando do it right. Malls like The Millenia, Altamonte Mall, and Premium outlets have Santa there daily until Christmas Eve. Plus, a mailbox for kids to drop off their wish lists adds to the charm.
It’s not just for the kiddos either; I love soaking in the Christmas-time vibes while grabbing a cup of coffee and browsing the shops. It’s one of those classic things to do during Christmas in Orlando.
17. Take the Kids to Santa’s Workshop at ICON Park
ICON Park’s Santa’s Workshop is another fun Christmas spot for families. The whole place is adorned like a winter yard, where you can meet Santa, ride the North Pole Express, and even take a spin on the carousel. If you’ve got little ones or if you just love Christmas magic, this is a must-see.
Suggested Reading → The Local’s Guide to ICON Park, Orlando.
18. Go Shopping at a Christmas Market
Who doesn’t love a good Christmas market? The vibe at Orlando’s pop-up holiday markets is unbeatable. These markets are more like festivals with music, festive lights, and many unique holiday gifts.
Last year, my wife picked up the cutest handmade ornaments at the Holiday Market Downtown. Check out the Winter Wonderland Market for local crafts and yummy treats. It’s an amazing way to support local vendors and do some holiday shopping.
19. Witness Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs
Ah, the Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs, this one’s a personal favorite. Every tree is decorated in a different Disney theme, and it’s totally free to stroll through. You can even grab a Mickey-shaped pretzel or an ornament for a souvenir. It’s one of those things to do during Christmas in Orlando that makes you feel like a kid again. And who knows? You might even get “snowed” on while you walk.
20. Bask in Holinights
Finally, if you’re looking for a night of fun, food, and festive cheer, the Holinights at Promenade at Sunset Walk is where you need to be. I went last year, and let me tell you, the 40-foot tree lighting was just the start. There were live bands, street markets, and even snowball fights with mischievous elves.
It’s such a good time, and the whole atmosphere is filled with joy. Plus, the vintage car shows on Saturdays?
Mind-blowing!
Get Those Jingle Bells Rolling……
Christmas in Orlando is a whole vibe, don’t you think? You haven’t done Christmas until you’ve done it here. It’s like unwrapping the best present ever, year after year.
Whether you’re marveling at boat parades, catching snow in Celebration, or getting lost in theme park decorations, Orlando has everything from family-friendly fun to romantic date nights. So, gather up the crew, throw on some cozy layers (but not too cozy; this is Florida, after all), and dive into the holiday spirit.
Planning to stay till New Year’s Eve? Don’t forget to read → Things to do in Orlando at New Year 2024!
FAQs
What are the top Christmas events to check out in Orlando?
Visit Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld for incredible light displays, festive parades, and special holiday shows.
Is Orlando crowded during the Christmas season?
Orlando gets pretty busy around Christmas, especially at the theme parks. It’s bustling, but that just adds to the festive vibe.
What should I pack for a Christmas trip to Orlando?
Since Orlando’s December weather is pleasantly mild, bring layers like long sleeves and a jacket. It’s usually warm during the day but can get cooler in the evenings.
Is it cold in Orlando for Christmas?
Not really. Orlando’s December weather is mild and pleasant compared to many other places. It’s a great way to escape the chill and enjoy festive warmth.
What’s the best way to get around Orlando during the Christmas season?
Traffic can be heavy during the holidays, so consider using the free shuttle services offered by theme parks or staying close to the attractions you want to visit. Rideshare apps can also be handy.
