Orlando kicks off more than 70 days of holiday celebrations with unique experiences throughout the city

The holiday season in Orlando kicks off this month with more than 70 days of events and experiences across the destination, from hotels and theme parks to gardens, museums, and cultural centers. Highlights include a Nutcracker-inspired tea party at the ette Hotel, the Holidays in Space celebration at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and a walk illuminated with more than a million lights at Leu Gardens. This diverse offering makes Orlando an ideal holiday getaway, further bolstered by its recognition as the number one travel destination in the United States by AAA in 2025.

Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando, emphasized the city's continued popularity during the holiday season, highlighting the memorable experiences it offers. She noted that visitors can enjoy unique moments, from capturing the perfect photo at the newest theme park to experiencing an Asian lantern festival at the local zoo. She also underscored the emotional value of sharing these kinds of experiences during the holidays.

Complete information on holiday events is available at VisitOrlando.com, where you'll also find exclusive offers and free advice from local travel planning specialists. Orlando makes it easy to plan personalized and affordable vacations for all types of visitors.

Walt Disney World Resort celebrates the holiday season from November 7 to December 31 at its four theme parks. Highlights include Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth, and special activities at Disney's Animal Kingdom, including Merry Menagerie and a festive edition of Tree of Life Awakenings.

From November 21 to January 4, Universal Orlando Resort presents a series of celebrations, including Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure, holiday decorations and shows at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, special lighting at Celestial Park, and the traditional Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's at Universal Studios Florida. These experiences transform the parks into vibrant settings filled with festive spirit.

From November 7 to January 5, SeaWorld Orlando presents Christmas Celebration, an immersive event featuring millions of lights, themed shows, character meet-and-greets, and a spectacular fireworks display. Meanwhile, LEGOLAND Florida Resort celebrates Holidays at LEGOLAND from December 6 to 31, with a towering LEGO tree, holiday entertainment, and character meet-and-greets throughout the park.

Beyond the parks, the city offers a multitude of festive options. The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild returns to the Central Florida Zoo with more than 10,000 LED lights from November 14 to January 18. The Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art, from November 15 to 23, features designer-decorated trees, gingerbread works, and special events. At ICON Park, the I-Drive District Holiday Tree Lighting illuminates a 50-foot tree and offers nightly shows. Ivanhoe Village celebrates Jingle Eve on November 22 with live music, markets, and fireworks.

Crayola Experience launches Colorful Christmas from November 22 to January 5, featuring creative activities, snow, and family-friendly shows. Leu Gardens presents Dazzling Nights from November 28 to January 4, an immersive experience with one million lights, glowing sculptures, interactive zones, and an 80-foot tribute to antique stained glass called “The Cathedral.” The Dr. Phillips Center offers holiday concerts and shows, including The Nutcracker by the Orlando Ballet. Winter Wonderland on Wekiva Island, from November 28 to December 25, includes a holiday market and Santa meet-and-greets.

The city also celebrates in Lake Nona with the Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival on weekends from December 5 to 21. In Winter Garden, December kicks off with the Main Street Holiday Stroll, a holiday market, and the traditional Winter Garden Christmas Parade on December 6. Winter Park celebrates its 73rd annual Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade, the oldest in Central Florida. For history buffs, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition offers celebrations and photo opportunities in front of the Grand Staircase from November 10 to January 5. At the Kennedy Space Center, Holidays in Space from December 21 to 30 includes a 600-drone show that tells the story of Starflake, a celestial character who journeys through the history of NASA's space programs.

Orlando hotels also offer seasonal experiences. Gaylord Palms Resort presents the ICE! experience with giant ice sculptures and a new circus show. Four Seasons Resort Orlando features festive cuisine, family activities, and a winter tea. In Grande Lakes, Winter at Grande Lakes includes an ice rink, culinary workshops, and meet-and-greets with Santa. Evermore Orlando Resort offers holiday activities throughout December, while the ette Hotel hosts the elegant Nutcracker Holiday Tea in partnership with the Orlando Ballet.

Finally, Zymarium Meadery celebrates Magical Meadmas from December 3 to January 4 with a special menu of meads and seasonal cocktails, culminating in an exclusive New Year's Eve party. With offerings that combine art, gastronomy, technology, nature, and entertainment, Orlando solidifies its position as an exceptional holiday destination for more than two consecutive months.