Holiday guide: Sparkling lights, events, and Santa moments in Central Florida

The holiday season is in full swing in Central Florida, offering a variety of festive activities for families and visitors alike. From dazzling light displays to heartwarming events and opportunities to meet Santa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this magical time of year.

Dazzling Light Displays

One of the most anticipated events is the Lake Eola Holiday Light Display, which transforms the park into a winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated paths and enjoy the beautiful decorations that light up the night. The display runs from December 5th to January 5th, with hours from 5:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. nightly. Admission is free, making it a perfect family-friendly activity.

Another highlight is Dino's in Lights at the Orlando Science Center. This interactive exhibit features life-sized dinosaur models adorned with lights, creating a unique blend of education and entertainment. The event runs until January 6th, with hours from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tickets vary by age, with children priced at $22, teens and seniors at $27, and adults at $29.

The Creative City Project's Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens offers another spectacular light display. Guests can walk through the gardens as they are transformed into a magical nighttime experience. The event runs from November 28th to January 4th, with ticket prices ranging from $31.50 to $39.50 for adults and $29.50 to $37.50 for children.

At SeaWorld, the Christmas Celebration brings holiday cheer with special events and attractions throughout the park. Admission to the park includes access to these festivities, making it a great option for families looking for a day of fun and excitement.

For Disney fans, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom offers a unique experience with exclusive parades, fireworks, and character interactions. The event runs until December 21st, with admission included in the park entry fee.

Holiday Events

In addition to the light displays, there are several other holiday events happening across the region. The Kissimmee Festival of Lights Parade takes place on Saturday, December 13th, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park. This annual event features colorful floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus.

At Gaylord Palms, the ICE featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a must-see attraction. This immersive experience combines ice sculptures with interactive elements, including a live reindeer. The event runs until January 7th, with ticket prices ranging from $36 to $43.

The Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park offers a cozy outdoor cinema experience. On December 13th, the film Elf will be shown starting at 7 p.m., following previous screenings of Frozen and Christmas with the Kranks.

The Dr. Phillips Center Frontyard Holiday Festival brings music, crafts, and holiday cheer to downtown Orlando. The festival runs from December 4th to January 4th, with no need for an entry ticket. It's a great opportunity to enjoy live performances and seasonal activities.

The 13th Annual Violectric® Holiday Show at Walt Disney Amphitheater is a free event that showcases musical performances and holiday spirit. The show starts at 7 p.m. on December 13th, making it a perfect evening activity for families.

Special Events and Activities

For those looking for a more personalized experience, Holiday Nights at Give Kids the World Village offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a magical evening with a cost of $30 for children and $40 for adults. This event is held on December 20th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Annual Jolly Jamboree in Downtown Ocoee takes place on Saturday, December 13th, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. This event features holiday vendors, food, and family-friendly activities.

Another notable event is "A Miracle on Park Avenue", where the route runs northbound on Park Avenue from First Methodist Church in Apopka to Votaw Road. This event takes place on Saturday, December 13th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering a festive atmosphere for all ages.

Photos with Santa

Families can also enjoy meeting Santa at various locations. Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops offers a free photo session with Santa at locations in Orlando and Daytona Beach. The event runs from November 1st to December 24th, making it a convenient option for holiday photos.

At The Mall at Millenia, guests can book a Santa Photo Experience with packages starting at $34.99. Reservations are required, so it's best to plan ahead for a memorable photo session.