December 1, 2025
Orlando shines a little brighter every December, transforming into a hub of festive events, sparkling lights, and holiday traditions for all ages. From iconic theme park celebrations to free community favorites, the 2025 season brings back beloved classics along with new ways to make memories. Whether you're planning out family adventures or looking for something special to do on a cozy December night, here’s your guide to the very best holiday magic around Central Florida.
FREE HOLIDAY MAGIC
NOW SNOWING IN CELEBRATION
The town of Celebration continues its beloved tradition of nightly "snow" in the heart of downtown. Families can enjoy live entertainment, horse-drawn carriage rides, and train rides for the kids while snowflakes fall every hour from 6 PM to 9 PM through December 31st.
With free parking, charming décor, and plenty of spots for holiday photos, it remains one of Orlando’s most nostalgic and budget-friendly holiday outings. Learn more HERE.
HOLIDAYS AT DISNEY SPRINGS
Image by Disney
Disney Springs shines during the holidays with the Christmas Tree Stroll, festive décor, seasonal treats, and nightly snowfalls in the Town Center. Live entertainment fills the walkways, including toy soldier stilt walkers, a Santa Sleigh DJ, and more merry performances throughout the season. Santa returns to Santa’s Marketplace through December 24th, and parking is free—making it a go-to destination for a magical evening without a theme park ticket. Learn more HERE.
HOLINIGHTS CELEBRATION AT SUNSET WALK
Sunset Walk outside Margaritaville Resort Orlando lights up select nights through December 25th with holiday music, themed entertainment, carolers, and appearances by Santa. The open-air setting and free parking make it a great choice for families or date night. Learn more HERE.
WINTER WONDERLAND MARKET AT GRANDE LAKES ORLANDO
The European-style holiday market at Grande Lakes Orlando returns for 2025 on December 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27 from 4 PM to 8 PM. Stroll through festive chalets offering artisan crafts, holiday bites, and seasonal beverages—all with hourly “snowfall” and entertainment for the whole family. Learn more HERE.
Downtown Orlando Festivities
HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHTS
Downtown Orlando brings back multiple Holiday Movie Nights for the 2025 season, offering family favorites in two iconic locations. On December 13, enjoy Elf at Lake Eola Park’s East Lawn at 7 PM. On December 14, The Polar Express plays at Seneff Arts Plaza with two evening showtimes. December 20 brings Christmas with the Kranks back to the East Lawn at 7 PM, followed by The Santa Clause on December 21 at Seneff Arts Plaza. The series continues with A Christmas Story on December 28 and concludes on January 4 with The Nightmare Before Christmas, both at Seneff Arts Plaza. All Sunday movie nights offer two showtimes and require no ticket purchase—just bring your blankets and enjoy holiday films under the stars. Learn more HERE.
FRONTYARD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
This year, the holidays truly take center stage as the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts debuts the inaugural Frontyard Holiday Festival, supported by AdventHealth. Beginning December 4 and running for 28 festive days through January 4, the three-acre Frontyard—including Seneff Arts Plaza—transforms into an immersive holiday storybook filled with twinkling lights, live entertainment, and seasonal atmospheres. Guests can enjoy more than 80 live performances, nightly snowfalls, cozy fire pits, and family-friendly activities throughout the festival. It’s a new marquee event for Downtown Orlando and a must-visit destination for 2025 holiday cheer. Learn more HERE.
Ongoing Holiday Favorites
DAZZLING NIGHTS AT LEU GARDENS
Back for another year, Dazzling Nights transforms the gardens with glowing light displays, interactive moments, and festive music. This immersive, ticketed experience runs select nights through January 4, 2026, and remains a must-do for families and couples. Learn more HERE.
ICE! AT GAYLORD PALMS
ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ returns for 2025 as a dazzling, story-driven holiday showcase carved entirely from ice. Walk through larger-than-life scenes from the cherished Christmas classic, slide down frozen chutes, and explore intricate tunnels kept at a brisk 9°F. This immersive experience captures the splendor of the season and runs Tuesday, December 9, 2025 through Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Learn more HERE.
DISNEY JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS
Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios continue to blend retro style with festive entertainment. Expect live jazz, themed lounges, specialty cocktails, character experiences, and exclusive entertainment. This separately ticketed event runs select nights through December 22nd. Learn more HERE.
MICKEY'S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Magic Kingdom’s classic Christmas party returns with snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A., Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, holiday fireworks, character greetings, and exclusive treats. This special event is offered select evenings through December 21st. Learn more HERE.
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE HOLIDAYS
Journey around the world to experience holiday traditions from a variety of cultures. Enjoy the Holiday Kitchens, live performances, storytellers, and the Candlelight Processional—running daily through December 30th and included with park admission. Learn more HERE.
HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Image by Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando bursts with holiday spirit thanks to Grinchmas, a festive makeover in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the nighttime Holiday Magic at Hogwarts Castle, and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s through January 4th. All are included with park admission. Learn more HERE.
SEAWORLD'S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
SeaWorld brings the season to life with millions of lights, holiday shows, seasonal treats, and meet-and-greets with Rudolph and friends. This event runs through January 5th and is included with theme park admission. Learn more HERE.
Photos with Santa
SANTA'S WORKSHOP AT ICON PARK
Image by Icon Park
Visit the Santa Workshop Experience inside the Sky Lounge at The Orlando Eye, featuring free covered parking, complimentary valet after 4 PM, a free carousel ride, and discounted admission to The Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds, and SEA LIFE Aquarium. Learn more HERE.
SANTA'S WONDERLAND AT BASS PRO SHOPS
A long-time favorite, Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops offers free photos with Santa, plus holiday crafts and activities for kids—all set in a rustic, cozy cabin backdrop. Learn more HERE.
THE MALL AT MILLENIA
Santa returns to The Mall at Millenia with a gorgeous holiday setup and premium photo experience. Advanced reservations are highly recommended for this upscale Christmas tradition. Learn more HERE.
FLORIDA MALL
Visit Santa at Florida Mall in a cheerful, interactive Christmas-themed set—perfect for younger children who want a fun, approachable Santa experience. Stay to check off your holiday shopping list at one of Orlando’s largest malls. Learn more HERE.
With so many festive experiences across Central Florida, there’s no shortage of ways to make the season bright. Whether you're gathering with loved ones, exploring new events, or revisiting timeless traditions, we hope your holidays are filled with joy and unforgettable memories.
🎄 Happy Holidays from Orlando! 🎄
