With Christmas season fast-approaching, families are eager to enjoy the first real holiday after the pandemic in style. And there is no better place on earth to spend Christmas vacation than in Orlando, Florida.
With exceptional weather, countless attractions, and numerous Christmas festivals, the city transforms itself into the ultimate Christmas destination.
The incredible variety of family-friendly entertainment options makes it the go-to-choice for most vacationers. Best of all, many of these themed activities and events are absolutely free!
With such a vast array of options available, it can often be hard to decide. To help you simplify this process, we have broken down the list of must-attend events and activities in Orlando during Christmas vacation:
1. Night of a Million Lights
This spectacular light show takes center stage at Give Kids The World Village. Spanning from mid-November through to the end of the year, the lights show, set in the imaginative resort full of whimsy and wonder creates an epic experience for the entire family.
The best part? Ticket fares go towards raising money for free trips to gift to critically ill children and their families.
However, this is not the only light show happening in town. Several other dazzling displays can be viewed in December such as:
- Light Up the Holidays in Altamonte Springs
- Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
These shows feature interactive light and music displays and even visits from Santa Claus!
2. Christmas Parades
Orlando does not shy away from drama, and its multitude of Christmas parades are a true testament to that.
With Christmas parades at Disney World, Lake Eola Park, and Winter Park to name a few, the parades offer visitors exciting views of marching bands, favorite celebrities, and the most imaginative floats and even boats!
With the appropriate social distancing protocols in place, it is a great way to enjoy the celebratory air of the festive season.
3. Tree lighting at Lake Eola Park
A beloved and a much-anticipated Christmas event in Orlando is the annual tree lighting at Lake Eola Park. Over 70-foot tall, the tree is surrounded by spectacular Nutcracker soldiers, and beautifully decked to kick off the holiday season.
4. Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs
With fantastic dining options, live entertainment, and plentiful attractions, Disney Springs is already a favorite holiday destination. But no more so than at Christmas.
One reason is its incredible Tree Trail featuring trees adorned in different Disney themes from Frozen to The Lion King. Kids are likely to get a thrill out of spotting their favorite characters and it’s the perfect opportunity to click the ultimate vacation photo!
5. Now Snowing at Celebration
A white Christmas is probably not expected when vacationing in Florida, but a taste of it can be experienced at Celebration near Disney World.
With daily evening snowfalls, carriage and wagon rides, ice skating, and amazing decorations, the venue has everything you need for a perfect Christmas evening.
6. Skiing in Winter Park
Yes, you read that right. In addition to experiencing snowfall, you can even ski and snowboard in Orlando (is there anything you can’t do in this city?).
The WinterClub Indoor Ski and Snowboard center has indoor ski slopes that allow visitors to enjoy the thrills of winter sports right in the middle of sunny Florida.
7. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
An immersive experience into flavor and culture, Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays takes place from November 26th– December 30th.
Visitors can explore holiday traditions from around the world through food, music, and stories. The Holiday Kitchens featuring an assortment of dishes from all parts of the globe is particularly prized by foodies.
Not to forget the wonderful Holiday Cookie Stroll which allows you to collect delicious delicacies and specialty desserts on your way to becoming a cookie connoisseur!
8. Theme Park Christmas Festivals
No visit to Orlando is complete without a visit to its incredible theme parks. This is especially true at Christmas time.
Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, or Legoland, a visit any one of these theme parks during Christmas is the right antidote for holiday blues.
Their holiday festivals include events ranging from fireworks displays and live shows, to ice skating and visits from favorite holiday characters.
As an added bonus, many of these festive event fares are included in the general admission. And tickets for special events can be purchased at discounted rates when bulked together.
Conclusion
There is no doubt about it. Orlando at Christmas is truly a magical winter wonderland.
Featuring incredible experiences throughout the year, it outdoes itself in December. With non-stop parades, shows, festivals, and holiday-themed events, there is something for everyone!
And with budget-friendly options and safety protocols in place, there is no reason to not take part in these activities and create countless, beautiful holiday memories.
If you are still unsure as to where to spend the ultimate post-pandemic festive season, look no further than the incredible Bear’s Den Resort at Reunion.
Featuring unmatched hospitality with luxurious accommodations and outstanding recreational facilities, it is also located at close proximity to all the best holiday events in Florida.
What’s more? Our exceptional concierge service can help arrange tickets and transport to visit these events, helping you to plan your holiday with ease.
