27 Most Festive Things to Do in Orlando for Christmas 2023

Do you want to know what are the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas 2022?

It’s the most wonderful time of year but nestled in the ‘Sunshine State’, Orlando isn’t necessarily the first destination that comes to mind when you think of Christmas.

However, over the holiday season, Orlando comes alive with festivity and is an incredible place to experience some yuletide cheer.

Orlando offers an abundance of activities, attractions and events throughout the festive season and it’s not just the theme parks that are sprinkled with a pinch of Christmas magic.

Universal Studios Florida Christmas Tree. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

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1. Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is the place to be if you’re looking for cultural and artistic enrichment, a place where during the holidays, there is an extra touch of sparkle. The festive calendar is bursting with a month of seasonal events and activities suitable for all ages.

Bok Towers Lake Wales Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

Every year has a new theme and features stunning displays of evergreen, poinsettias and begonia.

Bok Tower at Christmas in Lake Wales Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

This season you’ll get to enjoy an ornament making workshop on December 20, 2022 from 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m.

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2. Christmas, Florida

Located east of Orlando, the small community of Christmas welcomes an abundance of tourists looking for a spot of festive cheer.

Christmas, Florida Road Sign. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

With streets named after reindeer, a permanent Christmas tree and a year-long Nativity scene, Christmas is a town that not only bears the name, it is holiday themed.

The top thing to do in Christmas is to mail your cards from the post office that get stamped with the famed Christmas, Florida postmark.

3. Walt Disney World Resort

Nowhere is more magical than Walt Disney World so if you’re looking for some magic during the holidays, Disney should be your first port of call.

Magic Kingdom Christmas Tree in Main Street USA.One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.
Magic Kingdom Christmas Tree in Main Street USA

As soon as Halloween is over, the parks are transformed overnight into a winter wonderland, entertainment gets a holiday twist and gingerbread houses are built in hotels. This is one of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

Boardwalk Inn Resort Christmas Tree and Gingerbread house at Walt Disney World. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.
Boardwalk Inn Resort Christmas Tree and Gingerbread house at Walt Disney World

Each park celebrates the holidays in a different way and hosts a wealth of unique Christmas experiences.

The annual Christmas party is one of the most popular events of the year featuring themed parades, festive fireworks and special character sightings.

There are so many other things to see and do during this season at the resort such as:

You’ll also get to meet the famous Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Goofy in all their holiday gear.

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4. SeaWorld Christmas Celebration

Holiday shopping, joyous entertainment, dazzling live shows and festive food make the ultimate Christmas Celebration as SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a Christmas haven.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration Tree. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

The park is lit with over three million twinkling lights whilst fireworks dazzle in the night sky.

To top it off, meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, pay a visit to Santa and grab a prime position to watch the Sesame Street Christmas Parade.

When Does Christmas at SeaWorld Start?

The SeaWorld Christmas Celebration will take place from November 11th 2022 to January 3, 2023.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration Food Holiday Mint Margarita with Spicy Shrimp and Hot Cocoa. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

There are so many other things to see and do during this season at the SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration such as:

  • Meeting Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
  • Eating your way around the holiday food festival
  • Go Christmas shopping
  • Watching the holiday fireworks show
  • Hanging out with the Sesame Street characters during the Christmas Parade
  • Playing in the snow
  • Going ice skating

Don’t forget that you can buy some unique Christmas gifts from SeaWorld all over the park, but particularly in the Christmas Market. This event is one of my favorite things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

5. Universal Orlando Resort

A whole host of festive attractions pop up in Universal Orlando Resort around the holidays.

Universal Orlando Christmas Celebration. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

Starting with Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, the season begins with giant balloons of your favorite characters floating through the streets of Universal Studios.

Universal Orlando Resort Butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

You can also admire Hogwarts’ winter makeover whilst indulging in hot butterbeer and enjoying festive performances.

Grinchmas-during-Christmas-at-Universal-Islands-of-Adventure. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.
Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure (Photo Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort)

However, the star attraction is Grinchmas where Seuss Landing comes alive with Whoville charm, you can watch The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular and even meet the man himself.

There are so many other things to see and do during this season at the Universal Orlando such as:

  • Enjoying the holidays in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
  • Saying hi to the Grinch during Grinchmas
  • Doing a Holiday Tour at Universal Orlando Resort
  • Watching Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
  • Meeting Santa Claus
  • Going on a Christmas Tree Hunt
  • Listening to Mannheim Steamroller play your favorite holiday tunes
  • Resort hopping to look at the holiday decorations

RECOMMENDED: (VIDEO) Holiday Inn Disney Springs: The Most Exciting Place to Stay in Orlando

6. LEGOLAND FLORIDA

During the festive season, LEGOLAND Florida is not only home to a LEGO Christmas tree with a 360-degree light show, on select dates guests can enjoy an extra special event that is included in park admission.

Legoland Florida Entrance. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

Experience exciting holiday shows, festive LEGO activities and so much more, plus enjoy special character meets and greets including Holiday Unikitty, LEGO Gingerbread and even LEGO Santa.

The best thing about this fun experience is that it’s included in your theme park admission. The dates are November 26th – 28th, December 4th – 5th, 11th – 12th, 18th – 19th, 24th – 31st.

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7. ICE at Gaylord Palms

The Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center plays host to a truly unique, festive event as it transforms into the North Pole using over two million pounds of ice.

Gaylord Palms Christmas Screenshot
Website Screenshot

With incredible sculptures such as a Nativity scene, an arctic forest and life-sized reindeer, ICE features an abundance of festive scenes and characters made entirely from ice and showcased by twinkling lights.

Gaylord Palms Christmas decorations. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

The two main highlights of Christmas at Gaylord Palms in 2022 are their Naughty or Nice Escape Room, and their specially-produced Cirque-style show (Cirque: Spirit of Christmas) featuring acrobatics and breath-taking stunts.

Recommended: How to Get From Epcot to Hollywood Studios (6 Easy Ways to Get to the Disney Parks)

8. Lake Eola (Downtown Orlando)

During the holiday season, Lake Eola is home to a 72-foot Christmas tree that dazzles audiences with a synchronized music and light show throughout the festive period.

Lake Eola Christmas Tree Orlando Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

The lights are synched with the lights of the Lake Eola fountain and shows are performed every fifteen minutes, every evening during the holidays.

9. Celebration, Florida

Florida seems to be home to all the festively named towns with Celebration also within the state.

Jeter Street in Celebration, Florida for Holiday Lights. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas

Celebration, Florida is the town that Disney built and with such magical parents, the town certainly has its own sparkle.

NikkyJ and Family on Jeter Street in Celebration, Florida for Holiday Lights. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas

Famed for its Christmas lights, Celebration hosts a month-long festive spectacular featuring carolers, ice skating, snowfall and of course, Santa visits.

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10. Festival of the Trees at Orlando Museum of Art

The sparkling holiday tradition of Festival of the Trees showcases incredible Christmas creations of gingerbread, wreaths and decorated trees.

Orlando Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

The festival also features pop-up shops, a festive cafe and the Toyland Town play area with extra ticketed events also available to enjoy breakfast with Santa or hear a story read by Mrs. Claus.

Festival of Trees Orlando. One of the best things to do in Florida at Christmas.
Photo from Festival of Trees Facebook Page

This year’s event will take place from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, November 12th – Sunday, November 20th.

Cost for This Orlando Christmas Event

  • Adult: $20
  • Children: $12 (3-12)
  • Senior: $12 (60+)
  • Military personnel and first responders with ID: $12
  • Park: $7

11. Christmas in Mount Dora, Florida

Mount Dora buzzes with holiday events throughout the month of December. The city is famous for holiday festivities with exciting parades, dazzling celebrations and Christmas lights decorating every corner.

Mount Dora Florida Grantham Point. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

Every year, Santa and Mrs. Claus tour the neighborhoods of Mount Dora with their motorcade whilst the annual Christmas Walk sees downtown sprinkled with entertainment and late-night shopping.

Not only that but you can enjoy Christmas movies on the water, sledding in Donnelly Park and a holiday concert.

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12. Celebrate the Holidays in Leesburg, Florida

Leesburg offers many fun and festive events throughout the holidays.

The parade kicks off the season, Christmas displays take over the Venetian Gardens and the Main Street Christmas Stroll is the perfect way to enjoy some holiday shopping with live entertainment and falling snow.

Venetian Gardens in Leesburg Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

This is my hometown and each year I am happy to enjoy all of the holiday lights and Christmas décor and treats!

Downtown Leesburg, Florida and Venetian Gardens Tribute to the Black Pioneers CL Smalley. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.
Hanging out in Downtown Leesburg, Florida with my niece and nephew 🙂

And yeah I may be a bit bias in saying that it’s one of my favorite things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

Christmas Tree Up Close with Red Ornament with White Snowflake at the Leesburg Christmas House. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

Be sure to visit the Leesburg Christmas House from now until December 11th where you can find over 50,000 creatively handcrafted holiday decorations for you to enjoy this season.

13. Christmas Celebration (Tavares, Florida)

Taking place in early December, Christmas Celebration brings holiday cheer to Tavares. In addition to an exciting parade, the celebration also includes ice skating, seasonal food and gift booths.

Tavares Florida Lake Harris Boat Dock. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

A festive market is the perfect place to buy your loved ones a gift whilst Florida’s famous festive snoap falls over Tavares.

The Sounds of Christmas Tavares, Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.
Photo Courtesy of The City of Tavares

You can also see the man himself, Saint Nick, also makes an appearance during the Christmas Celebration.

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14. Light-Up Eustis (Eustis, Florida)

The Light-Up Eustis celebration is now in its 35th year with a special event in Ferran Park and Downtown Eustis.

This family-friendly event is free with the main attraction the light switches on but many other activities also on offer.

Christmas in Eustis , Florida. Light-Up Eustis is one of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

You will also find stilt-walking toy soldiers towering over you, carolers harmonizing in festive song and a 75-foot snow slide that brings the fun of Christmas to Light Up Eustis.

This year’s Christmas Celebration will take place on Friday, November 25th, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. There will also be a ceremonial tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. as well.

Christmas Tree at Holiday in the Park Eustis, Florida. Light-Up Eustis is one of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

Even if you miss the event, you can check out all of the holiday lights in Downtown Eustis.

15. Light UP UCF (University of Central Florida)

The UCF community truly captures the holiday spirit with an annual holiday festival. Running from November to January, the festival features rides and attractions set amongst a myriad of twinkling lights and festive displays.

Light Up UCF University of Central Florida Christmas

The affordable event also features ice skating, a big wheel and a holiday light show and is one of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

Although Light Up UCF is postponed this year, you can create your own Orlando Christmas lights tour to help you get through the season!

16. Santa’s Tree Farm (Eustis, Florida)

Nestled in Eustis, Santa’s Farm is the only destination in Central Florida where you can freshly cut your very own Florida Christmas tree.

Eustis Christmas Tree Farm Orlando Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

In addition to the Christmas Tree Forest, you can also find Santa’s Flight Zip Line allowing you to soar through the air like Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. Please note that at this time, reservations are required.

17. Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival at Lake Nona

Lake Nona’s Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival is like stepping into a winter wonderland and is Central Florida’s top holiday festival that you can enjoy from December 7th – 24th, 2022.

Lake Nona Christmas in Orlando

Join in with the festivities at Peppermint Square, experience nightly snowfall, visit Santa in his winter cottage or find your holiday tree in the Peppermint Forest Christmas tree lot.

The festival also offers arts and crafts, live entertainment and holiday-themed treats.

18. Santa’s Winter Wonderland Village at Hamlin (Final Details Pending)

The annual winter festival would usually take place at Waterford Lakes, but this year the Hamlin community in Winter Garden/Horizon West area will offer fun for all the family.

Orlando Christmas Lights

Bursting with rides and attractions, Santa’s Winter Wonderland has thrill rides for the adrenalin junkies and Kiddleland for the little ones.

You will also find a delicious food fair and numerous challenging games throughout the festival to test your skill.

19. Holiday in the Park (Lake Mary, Florida)

Downtown Lake Mary bursts into light during the holiday season with thousands of twinkling bulbs, a beautiful tree and a dancing light show courtesy of the annual Holiday in the Park event.

Lake Mary Florida Christmas. Looking at the holiday lights is one of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

Face painters, balloon artists and carolers also attend the event for a pinch of festive fun and holiday cheer whilst the Snow Zone is undoubtedly the event’s top attraction.

20. Holiday Tree Lighting at Center Lake Park (Oviedo, Florida)

Each year, the Holiday Tree Lighting at Center Lake Park takes on a different theme.

City of Oviedo Tree Lighting Ceremony for Christmas. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.
Photo Courtesy of the City of Oviedo

Every element of the event matches the theme including lights, food and entertainment whilst carolers and holiday surprises also appear on the Oviedo Amphitheatre Lawn.

Oviedo Florida Lake View

For those the bell still rings for, you can also:

21. Christmas in Winter Garden, Florida

With the help of the city’s elves, Winter Garden transforms into a festive wonderland with beautiful decorations and dazzling lights.

Winter Garden Christmas

Over the festive period, a whole host of seasonal activities are on offer including making the holiday parade, a gingerbread house, outdoor festive films and the annual Santa Run.

Winter Garden Florida Christmas Event Schedule for 2022
Winter Garden Florida Christmas Event Schedule for 2022 (Photo Courtesy of the City of Winter Garden)

You will also find the Winter Wonderland maze, holiday-themed photo locations and the Very Merry Farmers Market.

22. Christmas in Daytona Beach, Florida

Known as the ‘world’s most famous beach’, Daytona Beach doesn’t exactly scream Christmas but the festive events there beg to differ.

Daytona Beach Front Skyline at Nights

The Magic of Lights Holiday Display is a dazzling 1.5-mile drive through event that features over a million lights whilst the Stetson Mansion Holiday Home Tour is also a popular ticketed event during the holidays.

Merry Christmas on Beach Sand in Daytona Beach Florida. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

However, the headline act of Daytona Beach’s holiday season is the Daytona Beach Boat Parade giving festive spirit a nautical twist.

Recommended: 10 Festive Things to Do in St. Augustine for Christmas

23. Holinights Celebration at Sunset Walk and Night of a Million Lights (Kissimmee, Florida)

Sunset Walk is the heart of Kissimmee’s holiday celebrations with a number of festive events.

Bento Restaurant Exterior Orlando Kissimmee Florida Sunset Walk

The Holinights Celebration is a magical event featuring joyous carolers, mischievous elves and the main man, Santa, along with live entertainment, pop-up shops and a craft market on select nights from November 25th through December 24, 2022.

Sunset-walk-event-holinights-2022. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.
Photo Courtesy of Promenade at Sunset Walk

However, the most important event however is Night of a Million Lights!

This Winter Wonderland will take place at Island H2O Water Park benefits Give Kids The World Village.

Night-of-a-million-lights-card. One of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.
Photo Courtesy of Promenade at Sunset Walk

Give Kids the World Village is an 89-acre, charming nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families a week-long wish vacation at no cost.

24. Light Up Clermont

Clermont hosts all the classic holiday events you expect but bigger and better than anywhere else.

Clermont Florida Citrus Tower at Christmas

Light Up Clermont is the biggest event of the year with festivities including live performances and parades.

Light UP Clermont Holiday Festival. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.
Photo Courtesy of the City of Clermont

The festive extravaganza runs throughout December and provides the toolbox for getting into the holiday spirit.

25. Altamonte Springs, Florida

Light up the holidays at Altamonte Springs with dazzling fireworks, holiday displays and live performances.

Crane’s Roost Altamonte Springs Florida Christmas. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

Cranes Roost Park offers Altamonte Springs biggest event of the season with music and dance showcasing a celebration of the holidays.

You can also expect to experience train rides, enjoy ice skating and encounter guest appearances from a certain Claus family.

26. Orlando ICON Park

Celebrate the holidays at Orlando’s ICON Park and find holiday cheer through the wealth of activities on offer.

ICON Park Christmas Tree on International Drive. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas
ICON Park Christmas Tree on International Drive. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas

Capture your Christmas card moments, join in with some carol singing or head to Santa’s workshop to discover the yuletide joy within you.

ICON Park also showcases that the holiday season is all about love and community with performances from local choirs, schools and churches.

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27. Space Coast Light Festival (Palm Bay, Florida)

The holiday light spectacular of Space Coast Light Festival takes over Palm Bay’s Fred Poppe Regional Park with millions of twinkling lights shining in the darkness.

This drive through event features shimmering lights and animated displays that will take your breath away.

Space Coast Light Festival in Palm Bay, Florida drive thru experience is one of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas.

The event annually welcomes more than 15,000 cars but stroll through events are also available on select dates. You can even go on a hayride and meet Santa Claus while you’re there!

My Final Thoughts on Visiting Orlando for Christmas

If you’re spending Christmas in Florida this year, you won’t be short of festive entertainment!

Cinderella Castle decked out in white Christmas Lights Magic Kingdom. One of the best things to do in Orlando for Christmas.

Just make sure you keep your camera batteries charged as there will be so many incredible sights and beautiful memories you’ll want to capture forever.

Things to do in Orlando for Christmas
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Now it’s your turn. What’s your favorite things to do in Orlando for Christmas? Let us know in the comments section below!

Happy Florida Travels!

UP NEXT: 25 AMAZING Things to Do in Florida at Christmas (YOU MUST VISIT THIS YEAR)

Some Photos Courtesy of Canva.com

(Original Article Date: December 6, 2021/Updated on November 16, 2022)

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