Our annual guide to the plethora of holiday festivities around the region.

Gaylord Palms Light Show

Everyone celebrates differently, and Central Florida is a destination for an abundance of diverse events to carry on traditions or to try something new. Whether taking part in community happenings, expressing creativity by making meaningful gifts, taking in the arts or engaging in theme-park fun, it’s difficult not to attend them all.

NOV. 14-JAN. 7
ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
View colorful displays of ice that showcase scenes from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, entry times from 10 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., tickets from $33, Kissimmee,
ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com

NOV. 15
Ugly Holiday Sweater Party
Back by popular demand, wear your tackiest holiday sweater for a night of music, cocktails and fun.
Orlando Museum of Art, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $39.19, Orlando, OMArt.org

NOV. 15-23
Festival of Trees
In this event that signals the season’s beginning, view over 50 wintertime displays, pop-up vendors, a letters-to-Santa station at the Candy Cane Café.
Orlando Museum of Art, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., tickets from $14.64, Orlando, OMArt.org

NOV. 16
Handel’s Messiah
Messiah Choral Society will kick off the holiday season with this beloved classic performance.
Steinmetz Hall, 3-6 p.m., free, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

NOV. 20
Deck the District
City District Main Street will get the community in the spirit of the season with music, a gingerbread house competition, pet photos with Santa and more.
54 West Church Street, 6-9 p.m., free, Orlando, CityDistrictOrlando.com

NOV. 21
Reindeer Romp
A holiday party designed for children, the Reindeer Romp will host Santa and Mrs. Claus, stilt-walkers and a storytime—among other festive activities.
Orlando Museum of Art, 5:30 p.m., tickets from $33.85, Orlando, OMArt.org

NOV. 21
Christmas Vacation: Conversation with Chevy Chase
After a screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Chevy Chase will share behind-the-scenes stories and take questions for the film’s 35th anniversary.
Walt Disney Theater, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $52.81, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

NOV. 21-22
Orange and Ornaments: A Festival of the Trees
Attendees can peruse decorated trees with unique themes and even take one home.
Heller Hall at Healthy West Orange Heritage and Cultural Center, 5-8:30 p.m. (Fri.) & 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (Sat.), $25 per person, free for children 10 and under, Winter Garden, WGHF.org

NOV. 22
Deck the Halls with Art
This art exhibit is ideal for an atmospheric holiday outing and gift shopping, with music and refreshments.
Pine Castle Woman’s Club, 6 p.m., free, Orlando, Facebook.com/PineCastleArts

NOV. 22
Sip & Sleigh Cocktail Party
For the Festival of Trees finale, sip on seasonal cocktails and listen to holiday jazz music; adults only.
Orlando Museum of Art, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $39.19, Orlando, OMArt.org

NOV. 22-23
The Orlando Pottery Festival Fall Holiday Market
Shop and view works from 50-plus local ceramic artists, plus enter a raffle to benefit The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando.
The Armory, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sat.) & 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Sun.), free, Orlando, TheOrlandoPotteryFestival.org

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage at Orlando Family Stage / McKenzie Lakey

NOV. 24-DEC.23
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage
A holiday favorite for audiences of all ages, see familiar characters like Snoopy and Linus brought to life for the stage.
Edyth Bush Theatre, times vary, tickets from $20, Orlando, OrlandoFamilyStage.com

NOV. 26-DEC. 21
Annie
This family-friendly musical embodies themes of hope, compassion and resilience.
Theatre Winter Haven, 2:30 & 7:30 p.m., $39 tickets, Winter Haven, TheatreWinterHaven.com

NOV. 26-DEC. 24
A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens’ holiday tale returns to the stage as an Orlando Shakes tradition.
Orlando Shakespeare Theater, 2 & 7:30 p.m., ticket prices vary, Orlando, OrlandoShakes.org

NOV. 28-30
A Christmas Story
The stage adaptation of the beloved film is hilarious, heartwarming and musical.
Straz Center, times vary, tickets from $62.20, Tampa, StrazCenter.org

NOV. 29
Home for the Holidays: Holidays in Hollywood
The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra performs holiday hits from films like White Christmas, The Polar Express and Home Alone.
Steinmetz Hall, 2:30 & 7:30 p.m., tickets from $23.60, Orlando, OrlandoPhil.org

NOV. 29-DEC. 31
Now Snowing
Celebration Town Center transforms into a winter wonderland of synthetic ice and snow, featuring performances, carriage rides, Santa and more.
Celebration Town Center, 6-9 p.m., free, Celebration, CelebrationTownCenter.com

NOV. 30
Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker
A modern adaptation of The Nutcracker for audience members of all ages.
Walt Disney Theater, 7 p.m., tickets from $48.78, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

NOV. 30-DEC. 25
Winter Wonderland at Wekiva Island
Each day brings new experience like Stories with Mrs. Claus, Santa’s Workshop, outdoor holiday movies, stilt walkers, crafts and much more.
Wekiva Island, times vary, $5 admission fee, select events priced separately, Longwood, WekivaIsland.com

DEC. 1
Holiday Cards
Ages 18 and up are invited to create customized holiday cards—registration required.
Chickasaw Branch Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon, free, Orlando, OCLS.org

DEC. 1
Leslie Odom, Jr: The Christmas Tour
The award-winning Broadway star and musical artist will sing holiday classics and originals, in addition to songs from Hamilton.
Walt Disney Theater, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $64.90, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

DEC. 2, 9, & 16
Crochet a Stocking
In this beginner-friendly, three-part class, learn to crochet your own holiday stocking—registration required.
Windermere Branch Library, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., free or $10 for out-of-district, Windermere, OCLS.org

DEC. 3
Holiday DIY Ornaments
Those 18 and up will be provided with supplies to decorate ornaments with various techniques—registration required.
Fairview Shores Branch Library, 5-6 p.m., free, Orlando, OCLS.org

DEC. 3
KaleidoScope 360° & Luminary Market
Shop unique vendors and stick around to watch A Christmas Story at 7 p.m. with enhanced visuals and sound.
Luminary Green Park, 5:30-9 p.m., free, Orlando, PeaceFilmFest.org

Jungle Lights

DEC. 3-JAN. 3
Jungle Lights
Experience a journey across the globe with glowing lights illuminating flora, fauna, art and the atmosphere.
McKee Botanical Garden, 6-9 p.m., prices vary, Vero Beach, McKeeGarden.org

DEC. 4
Christmas in the Park
The 47th annual celebration continues with the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble in concert.
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 6:15 p.m., free, Winter Park, MorseMuseum.org

DEC. 4-21
Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings
With a small cast and lots of holiday fun, this show features nostalgic tunes intertwined with comedic bits.
Theatre Winter Haven, 2 & 7 p.m., $39 tickets, Winter Haven, TheatreWinterHaven.com

DEC. 5
Winter on the Avenue
This festival includes a tree lighting, a menorah lighting, holiday treats, snow slides, art, choirs, Santa and more.
Central Park, 5-9 p.m., free Winter Park, WinterPark.org

DEC. 5-24
Orlando Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
The classic story is reimagined for its third annual year performed by Orlando Ballet.
Steinmetz Hall, 7:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., tickets from $43.66, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

DEC. 6
Free Winter Family Day
Beyond free museum admission, families can take part in a winter-themed art workshop or scavenger hunt, with various stations of activities throughout.
Art & History Museums Maitland Art Center, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., free, Maitland, ArtAndHistory.org

DEC. 6
Avalon Aglow
The annual celebration commences with a holiday parade, ends with a fireworks display and is filled with festivities in between.
Avalon Park, 3-9 p.m., free, Orlando, AvalonParkOrlando.com

DEC. 6
Tree Lighting Celebration
Lake Eola’s Christmas tree will be lit for the first time this year, accompanied by food trucks, performances and a holiday market.
Lake Eola Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park, time TBA, free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

DEC. 6
Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: Frozen
The enchanting line-up of holiday movies begins with the Disney musical adventure Frozen, and visitors can meet with Santa before the screening.
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 7 p.m., free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

DEC. 6
Holiday Cookie Decorating
Learn to decorate cookies with stunning designs—and eat them, too! Registration required.
Windermere Branch Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m., free, Windermere, OCLS.org

DEC 6-7
Holiday Harmonies
A musical journey that celebrates the season, culture and art for the whole family.
The Plaza Live, 10 & 11:30 a.m., $10 per ticket, Orlando, OrlandoPhil.org

DEC. 6-JAN. 6
Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show
This annual synchronized display lights up the town with music and color.
Lake Eola Park, times vary, free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

Orange County Library System

DEC. 7
Senior DIY: Handmade Ornaments
Create ornaments from melted crayons—registration required.
West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center, 2:30-3:30 p.m., free, Ocoee, OCLS.org

DEC. 7
Sarah Brightman: A Winter Symphony
The world-renowned soprano will sing holiday classics and her greatest hits.
Walt Disney Theater, 7 p.m., tickets from $58.41, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

DEC. 8
Holiday DIY: Drink Charms
Create themed, personalized drink charms with shrink film—registration required.
North Orange Branch Library, 4:30-5:30 p.m., free, Apopka, OCLS.org

DEC. 8
Sugar Plum Fairy Scrub
Craft your own sugar scrub as a gift or for some holiday self-pampering.
Washington Park Branch Library, 5-6 p.m., free, Orlando, OCLS.org

DEC. 10-14
Les Misérables 
The acclaimed musical epic inspires, evokes emotion and takes audiences on a journey about the strength of the human spirit.
Straz Center, times vary, tickets from $62.20, Tampa, StrazCenter.org

DEC. 12
Berry Bazaar
The annual holiday market is back with local artisans and vendors, and two performances from the Metropolitan Area Youth Symphony.
Lake Concord Park, 6-9 p.m., free, Casselberry, CasselberryFOP.com

DEC. 12-14
All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914
This a cappella musical tells the true story of World War I’s Christmas Truce.
Orlando Family Stage, 2 & 7:30 p.m., free, Orlando, OperaOrlando.org

DEC. 13
Jolly Jamboree
Downtown Ocoee will host a Christmas village, kids’ activities, special guests, a tree lighting and more.
Downtown Ocoee, 1-7 p.m., free, Ocoee, Ocoee.org

DEC. 13
Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: Elf
The holiday movie screenings continue with the Christmas comedy Elf.
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 7 p.m., free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

DEC. 13
The Magic of the Drums: Christmas Celebration
The night will be filled with the rhythm of Bomba and Plena music and Afro-Puerto Rican culture.
AfroTV Orlando, 7-9 p.m., $35 per ticket, PuertoRicoEsBomba.com

DEC. 13
Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: Christmas with the Kranks
The popular holiday film will see a special screening in the park.
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 7 p.m., free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

DEC. 14
Sundays at the Center: Junior Reading Club: “Hanukkah Bear”
Perfect for kindergarteners through sixth graders, enjoy an engaging story alongside arts and crafts.
Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida, noon-1 p.m., free, Maitland, HMREC.org

DEC. 14
Downtown for the Holidays Sensory Night
Experience Downtown for the Holidays in a welcoming, low-stimulation atmosphere designed for attendees with sensory sensitivities.
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 5:30-7:30 p.m., free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

DEC. 14
The Light of Christmas: Vienna Light Orchestra’s Christmas Tour 2025
This holiday concert experience includes theatrics, lights, musical talent and more.
Walt Disney Theater, 7 p.m., tickets from $75.72, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

DEC. 15
Holiday DIY: Mini Winter Hat Garland
Create unique holiday decor from tiny winter hats—registration required.
North Orange Branch Library, 4:30-5:30 p.m., free, Apopka, OCLS.org

DEC. 16
Pentatonix Christmas in the City Tour
Celebrate the season with the Grammy-winning a cappella group on its latest holiday tour.
Kia Center, 7 p.m., tickets from $51.55, Orlando, KiaCenter.com

DEC. 20
Holiday DIY Crafts
Families are encouraged to make a variety of handmade decorations and gifts.
Southeast Branch Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m., free, Orlando, OCLS.org

DEC. 20
Atlantic Coast Theatre Presents: The Snow Queen
Experience the Hans Christian Andersen tale brought to life onstage.
Orlando Public Library, 3-4 p.m., free, Orlando, OCLS.org

DEC. 21
Holiday Milk Mart
Wrap up your Christmas shopping with unique gifts from streets full of vendors.
Milk Mart, noon-6 p.m., free, Orlando, MilkMartOrlando.com

DEC. 22
Holiday DIY: Snowman Light
Recommended for ages 6-12, create a mini snowman light.
North Orange Branch Library, 11 a.m.-noon., free, Apopka, OCLS.org

DEC. 22
Adult Craft & Chat: Wine Glass Snowman
Decorate wine glasses and meet other adults who love to craft.
Hiawassee Branch Library, 4-5 p.m., free, Orlando, OCLS.org

DEC. 26-JAN. 1
Central Florida Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
Celebrate Kwanzaa with community, dance and culture in this dynamic event.
Hannibal Square, times and ticket price TBA, Winter Park, EquityCouncilCorp.org

DEC. 31
Midnight on Magnolia 2026
Ring in the new year with the Downtown Arts District’s second annual party.
CityArts, 9 p.m., tickets from $78.79, Orlando, DowntownArtsDistrict.com

At The Parks

Legoland

Holidays at Legoland
Experience holiday characters and decor made out of LEGOs.
This event is included in regular park admission and runs Dec. 6, 13, 20 & 24-31

SeaWorld Orlando

Christmas Celebration
With life-sized puppet shows, fireworks, lit-up roller coasters, parades, treasured characters from Rudolph to Elmo, and more—there’s fun for all ages.
This event is included in regular park admission and runs through Jan. 5.

Universal Orlando

Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
With an emphasis on Christmas magic, seasonal surprises appear across all Wizarding World locations.
This event is included in regular park admission and runs from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4.

Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular
Take part in the meet-and-greets with The Grinch that have made this event a viral hit as Seuss Landing is transformed into Whoville for the holiday season.
This event is included in regular park admission and runs from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4.

Universal’s Holiday Parade
Occurring at 5:30 p.m. daily, watch as large floats and performances portray favorite characters from Despicable Me, Shrek, Madagascar and more.
This event is included in regular park admission and runs from Nov. 21 through Jan. 4.

Walt Disney World

Disney Jollywood Nights
This five-hour event is filled with musical adventures, favorite characters from all eras, light displays and more.
This event takes place on select nights at Hollywood Studios through Dec. 22, and separate special event tickets are available from $159.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Celebrate the holidays with Mickey Mouse and friends, music, performances and more.
This event takes place on select nights at Magic Kingdom through Dec. 21, and separate special event tickets are available from $179.