The Ultimate Guide to the Holidays in Orlando

What better way to celebrate the holidays in Orlando than in the most magical theme parks in the world? Orlando is home to some of the most famous theme parks globally, and during the holiday season, they transform into a true winter wonderland, even without the cold weather. From extravagant decorations and dazzling lights to festive parades and exclusive holiday shows, Orlando’s theme parks pull out all the stops to make the season unforgettable. While you’re soaking in the holiday magic, consider staying at Casiola Orlando, where you can enjoy comfortable accommodations and convenient access to all the attractions. Whether you’re exploring the fairy-tale atmosphere of Walt Disney World®, the epic worlds of Universal Orlando™, or getting an aquatic twist at SeaWorld®, you’ll find that each park brings its own unique spin to the holidays in Orlando. With special events and attractions that only happen this time of year, you won’t want to miss out on the magical moments waiting for you.

Walt Disney World® Resort

At Walt Disney World®, the holiday magic truly is everywhere, making it a top choice for unforgettable holidays in Orlando. From the moment you step foot in the parks, you’re surrounded by twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the joyful sounds of the season. Every corner of the parks has something to offer, creating the perfect destination for holiday cheer. Here are two can’t-miss events that will fill your heart with holiday joy:

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Imagine walking down Main Street, U.S.A., as snow falls gently around you, despite the warm Florida weather. At Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, offered on select evenings from November 8 to December 20, from 7:00 PM to midnight, you’ll experience this and so much more during the enchanting holidays in Orlando. This special event at Magic Kingdom is a ticketed celebration that includes a Christmas parade, stunning fireworks, and meet-and-greets with your favorite Disney characters, all dressed up in their holiday best. The highlight of the night is the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, featuring Santa Claus, giant toy soldiers, and beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy. You’ll also enjoy festive stage shows, special holiday treats like complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and exclusive access to some of the park’s rides with shorter wait times. It’s an event that will make your holidays in Orlando even more magical.

EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays

If you’re a fan of learning about different cultures and traditions, then the EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays, running from November 29 through December 30, is a must-do during your holidays in Orlando. During this time, EPCOT’s World Showcase transforms into a celebration of global holiday traditions, with 11 countries showcasing how they celebrate the season. You can indulge in seasonal dishes from around the world at the Holiday Kitchens, where each country offers its own take on festive food and drink. But that’s not all! You can enjoy the heartwarming Candlelight Processional, a retelling of the Christmas story by celebrity narrators accompanied by a choir and live orchestra. It’s an awe-inspiring and moving performance that brings the true meaning of the holidays in Orlando to life.

Universal Orlando Resort™

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, Universal Orlando Resort™ offers an epic holiday experience filled with over-the-top entertainment and thrills during the holidays in Orlando. The holiday season at Universal Studios™ Florida and Islands of Adventure™ is nothing short of spectacular, and here are two of the biggest holiday events you won’t want to miss:

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

You don’t have to be in New York City to experience the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—Universal Orlando™ brings it right to you with their own Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s running from November 22 to December 31, perfect for the holidays in Orlando! This parade features giant balloons inspired by the iconic Macy’s parade, along with stunning floats, energetic dancers, and beloved characters like the Minions and Shrek. Santa himself makes an appearance, spreading holiday cheer and lighting the enormous Christmas tree. The whole experience is brimming with festive energy, making it a tradition that families look forward to year after year.

Grinchmas™ at Islands of Adventure

Over at Islands of Adventure™, the holidays in Orlando take on a quirky, mischievous twist with Grinchmas™ running from November 22 to December 31. The entire Seuss Landing area is transformed into a wintery wonderland, and the highlight is the live retelling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. You’ll laugh, you’ll cheer, and you might even tear up as the Grinch’s heart grows three sizes in this heartwarming show. Don’t forget to meet the Grinch himself—this lovable (yet grumpy) character is available for photo ops, and trust us, he’s full of surprises!

SeaWorld® Orlando

For an aquatic spin on the holidays in Orlando, head to SeaWorld® Orlando. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration brings the joy of the season to life with shimmering lights, live shows, and some of the ocean’s most beloved animals. It’s a unique way to celebrate, especially for families who love marine life.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

Dive into a sea of holiday cheer during the holidays in Orlando as SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, offered on select dates beginning November 8 through January 2, is decked out in millions of sparkling lights and festive decor. One of the highlights of this event is Rudolph’s ChristmasTown, where you can meet classic holiday characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Clarice, and the Bumble. The park also features wintery shows, including O Wondrous Night, a live nativity told through the eyes of the animals that were there. This heartwarming performance features over 30 carols and life-sized puppets, making it a magical experience for all ages. Plus, don’t miss the chance to enjoy holiday-themed animal shows, seasonal treats, and even a visit from Santa Claus!

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

For families with younger children, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is the perfect holiday destination for the holidays in Orlando, offering a mix of playful fun and festive spirit. LEGOLAND’s Christmas Bricktacular is a must-do event that turns the park into a wonderland made of LEGO bricks.

LEGOLAND’s Christmas Bricktacular

During the Christmas Bricktacular, happening on November 29-30 and December 1, 7-8, 14-15, and 21-31, part of the holidays in Orlando, everything is made of LEGO, including a giant LEGO® Christmas tree that stands over 30 feet tall! Kids can participate in fun holiday-themed building activities, meet LEGO® Santa and his friends, and enjoy interactive shows. The park is also filled with holiday decorations, making it a fun and festive experience for the whole family. Don’t forget to grab some holiday-themed snacks while you’re there—LEGO®-shaped treats are always a hit with the little ones.

Holiday lights and festive displays

Orlando doesn’t just celebrate the holidays in Orlando at the theme parks—it’s also a city that lights up in every corner with beautiful holiday displays. Throughout the holiday season, you’ll find dazzling light shows and immersive winter experiences that capture the magic of this time of year during the holidays in Orlando.

Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens

For a more serene holiday experience during the holidays in Orlando, take a walk through the beautifully illuminated Leu Gardens during the Dazzling Nights event, running from November 29 to January 5, at 1920 N Forest Ave. Towering trees are adorned with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere as you explore the gardens. This is the perfect spot for families, couples, or anyone looking for a peaceful, festive escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lights create a stunning backdrop for photos, and the quiet ambiance allows you to really soak in the holiday spirit. It’s an ideal date night activity or a family outing that offers a slower pace, but just as much holiday cheer.

Holiday light shows and displays

In addition to the larger events, the holidays in Orlando are enriched by several community holiday light displays that bring small-town charm to the big city. Lake Eola Park and Cranes Roost Park are both known for their beautiful holiday light displays, where visitors can take leisurely walks along illuminated paths or attend special holiday concerts. The sights are truly spectacular, with colorful lights reflecting off the water and creating a magical scene that’s perfect for a family outing or a relaxing evening under the stars. Whether you’re attending a holiday concert or simply enjoying the twinkling lights, these local displays are a must-see during the holiday season.

Staying with Casiola during the holidays in Orlando