25 Magical Holiday Activities for Families in Orlando

The holiday season in Orlando is nothing short of magical. Living here means you can experience warm weather, endless sunshine, and a festive spirit that’s uniquely Orlando. Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering making this vibrant city your home, there’s no shortage of fun activities to enjoy with your kids during Christmas. Here are 25 reasons why the Orlando lifestyle is perfect for families this holiday season.

From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney’s Magic Kingdom to SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, Orlando transforms into a wonderland of lights, music, and joy. Take a stroll down Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, where each tree is uniquely themed, or visit Winter Park’s Hometown Parade for a classic holiday experience. Families in neighborhoods like Dr. Phillips and Windermere can enjoy their proximity to festive events such as the dazzling lights at Leu Gardens’ Dazzling Nights or holiday-themed ice skating at Light Up UCF. And don’t miss Gaylord Palms’ ICE!, where you’ll find incredible ice sculptures and fun activities for the whole family.

Living in Orlando means you’re always close to the fun. Neighborhoods like Dr. Phillips and Windermere not only boast luxurious homes and top-notch schools but are also central to Orlando’s best holiday happenings. After all, who doesn’t want to be within a short drive of Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, or take an evening stroll by the beautifully lit Lake Eola Christmas tree? And let’s not forget the local gems like Celebration’s nightly snowfall or holiday movie nights in Old Town.

Thinking about moving to Orlando? Imagine a holiday season where you’re not shoveling snow but enjoying poolside cocoa in your very own Orlando luxury home. From waterfront properties to family-friendly gated communities, Orlando offers the perfect backdrop for creating lifelong holiday memories. Reach out to me, Joe Newstreet, your go-to expert in Orlando real estate, to discover your dream home and start building traditions in one of the best neighborhoods in Orlando. Because here, every season feels like a celebration.

1. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom: Experience a special event featuring a holiday parade, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets.

2. Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s: Enjoy a festive parade with larger-than-life balloons and holiday-themed floats at Universal Studios Florida.

3. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration: Delight in holiday shows, festive decorations, and meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

4. ICE! at Gaylord Palms: Explore a winter wonderland of ice sculptures and slides, themed around “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

5. Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens: Walk through a magical light display set in beautiful gardens.

6. Light Up UCF: Enjoy ice skating, rides, and holiday light shows at the University of Central Florida.

7. Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art: Admire beautifully decorated trees and holiday displays.

8. The Nutcracker Ballet: Attend a performance of this classic holiday ballet by local dance companies.

9. Lake Eola Tree Lighting Celebration: Witness the lighting of a 72-foot Christmas tree and enjoy live entertainment.

10. Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll: Stroll through themed Christmas trees and enjoy festive decorations.

11. Winter Park “Ye Olde Hometown” Christmas Parade: Attend Central Florida’s longest-running holiday parade.

12. Celebration’s Now Snowing Nightly: Experience nightly “snowfall,” ice skating, and holiday entertainment in Celebration Town Center.

13. Crane’s Roost Park Holiday Lights: Walk through over 200,000 lights and holiday displays in Altamonte Springs.

14. Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops: Meet Santa and participate in free crafts and games.

15. Holiday Carriage Rides in Winter Garden: Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through festively decorated downtown Winter Garden.

16. Jingle Eve in Ivanhoe Village: Celebrate with a Christmas tree lighting, live music, and a wine stroll.

17. Mount Dora Christmas Walk: Experience a street party with live entertainment, shopping, and holiday lights.

18. St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights: Take a short trip to see millions of white lights adorning the historic city.

19. Holiday Boat Parades: Watch decorated boats parade on local waterways, such as the Winter Park Boat Parade.

20. Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens: Explore festive decorations and enjoy carillon concerts in a beautiful garden setting.

21. Santa’s Enchanted Forest at Fun Spot America: Enjoy holiday-themed rides, shows, and attractions.

22. Holiday Movies at Old Town: Watch classic holiday movies under the stars.

23. Gingerbread House Displays at Disney Resorts: Visit Disney resort hotels to see elaborate gingerbread creations.

24. Holiday Train Rides: Take a festive train ride with the Orange Blossom Cannonball or other local railways.

25. Christmas Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Florida: Enjoy holiday-themed shows, activities, and a giant LEGO Christmas tree.