There’s something utterly enchanting about spending Christmas in Orlando, right? The city brims with holiday cheer, vibrant lights, and captivating attractions, transforming into a real-world winter wonderland! Let’s dive into what there is to experience this season that you and your family with relish for a life time…
Including an ALL NEW event at Disney World in Hollywood Studios!
Christmas at Walt Disney World
Picture yourself stepping into Walt Disney World during the holiday season, where the magic becomes even more enchanting no matter the time of year!
The park transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling decorations, twinkling lights, and the delightful scent of holiday treats wafting through the air. Experience the joy of watching your favorite Disney characters in their festive attire, be mesmerized by spectacular light shows illuminating the night sky, and indulge in delectable eats and treats around every corner.
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas here, but remember to plan your visit wisely — there’s so much to see and do, and you won’t want to miss a single magical moment! To help you with planning, here are the top three things to do at Disney World for Christmas in 2023:
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
Ready to take your Christmas in Orlando to another level? You won’t want to miss the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays from November 24 to December 30, 2023! If this is the first time you’ve been, it’s a must-do event in Orlando filled with holiday sights and flavors.
This vibrant celebration showcases the holiday traditions of 11 World Showcase nations, making it a truly global yuletide experience. Enjoy the heartwarming holiday stories told by performers in each country, and be captivated by the stunning displays of each nation’s distinctive holiday decorations!
You can even meet Santa Claus at The Odyssey Pavilion or head over to America Gardens Theatre to enjoy the stunning Candlelight Processional show, featuring a celebrity narrator telling the story of Christmas accompanied by a live orchestra and choir.
Let’s not forget about the food! The festival features Holiday Kitchens offering traditional holiday dishes and beverages from around the world. From savory to sweet, there’s a world of flavors waiting to delight your palate. It’s the perfect destination for those who wish they could travel around the world without leaving Orlando!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom
Are you ready to experience the most festive Christmas party in all of Orlando? If so, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom is the place to be, and it takes place on select nights from November 8 to December 22, 2023.
As twilight falls, the park transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland, bursting with yuletide cheer. Envision Magic Kingdom, already a place of wonder, made even more magical with the sparkle of Christmas lights, the scent of gingerbread wafting through the air, and the sound of carolers singing your favorite holiday tunes!
And guess what? The entertainment is Christmas-themed too! From Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, where you can see your favorite Disney characters in their holiday best, to “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show,” which lights up the night sky in a stunning holiday spectacle, there’s something to fill everyone with holiday cheer.
Don’t forget to enjoy the complimentary seasonal treats and festive Disney merchandise. After all, what’s Christmas in Orlando without a healthy dose of Disney magic?
Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios
Ready for a Christmas celebration with a glitzy Hollywood twist? Then buckle up for Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios in 2023! This new event will be held on select nights from November 11 to December 24, 2023 as the sun sets and the stars come out! The park will come alive with the golden age glamor of Hollywood, perfectly blended with the joy and magic of the holiday season. This festive event truly captures the spirit of Christmas in Orlando with its unique Hollywood flair.
Feast your eyes on the ‘Hollywood Holiday Parade,’ a stunning spectacle that takes Tinsel Town Christmas to a whole new level. Watch in awe as your favorite Disney characters glide down Hollywood Boulevard in their dazzling holiday costumes, against a backdrop of twinkling lights and festive decor. And don’t miss the ‘Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!’ nighttime spectacular. This show will be a feast for the senses with its impressive projections, fireworks, and falling ‘snow,’ all set to a catchy holiday soundtrack.
Holiday Celebrations at Universal Studios
Did you think the festive fun ends at Disney? Think again! From November 17 to December 31, 2023, Universal Studios in Orlando will host holiday celebrations that are nothing short of a Yuletide blockbuster. The moment you set foot inside, it’s like stepping into a Christmas movie set. From colossal Christmas trees to sparkling decorations to the classic holiday tunes filling the air, the entire park is a festive feast for the senses.
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
You can’t talk about Universal Studios Christmas without mentioning the most magical of them all — Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! As you approach the snow-capped castle, you’ll feel as though you’ve been whisked away to Hogsmeade Village, right from the pages of J.K. Rowling’s celebrated series. But what’s extra special is the Hogwarts castle lights up for the holidays, and there’s festive decor everywhere!
Experience the feeling of the Yule Ball as the castle is transformed with images of Christmas trees, magical creatures, and beloved characters. But that’s not all! Take advantage of the enchanting ‘Frog Choir,’ a unique blend of Christmas carols and frog croaks! And of course, take a stroll through Hogsmeade, sipping on hot Butterbeer while exploring the charming shops.
Holidays at Hogwarts is a must-see for any Harry Potter fan and, indeed, anyone looking for a dash of magic in their Christmas in Orlando experience!
The Whimsical World of Grinchmas
How could Christmas in Orlando possibly get any better? By adding a dose of Dr. Seuss enchantment, of course! Welcome to Grinchmas, a holiday spectacle that transforms Seuss Landing at Universal’s Islands of Adventure into the whimsical world of Whoville. This is no ordinary Christmas celebration — it’s as quirky and colorful as the Grinch himself!
Ever wondered how Christmas is celebrated by the Whos? The ‘Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular’ show is your chance to find out. With a heartwarming live performance that recounts the classic tale of the Grinch, complete with original songs and, of course, maximal holiday cheer, it’s an experience both kids and adults will adore. Have your cameras ready to capture the jubilant Whos, the towering Christmas tree, and the Grinch in his full green glory.
And that’s not all! Take the merriment a notch higher by partaking in the ‘Breakfast with the Grinch’ experience. Yep, that’s right… a chance to dine with the Grinch himself! This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a morning filled with unexpected surprises and fun.
So, are you ready to let your heart grow three sizes this holiday season? If yes, then Grinchmas is the place to be during your Christmas in Orlando!
Macy’s Holiday Parade: A Christmas Extravaganza
Come and experience the enchantment at Universal Studios Florida, where the Macy’s Holiday Parade takes center stage! Imagine this — magnificent floats and giant balloons, straight from the legendary Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in New York, gracefully gliding through the streets!
Prepare to be awestruck as larger-than-life balloons, vibrant confetti, and beloved characters create a captivating procession. And as the evening descends, the park illuminates with a breathtaking holiday light display, accompanied by familiar festive melodies.
From the cinematic decorations to the magical events, a visit to Universal Studios during Christmas in Orlando promises to fill your heart with joy and create unforgettable holiday memories!
Other Must-Visit Attractions in Orlando During Christmas
Orlando’s holiday charm extends far beyond its world-renowned theme parks! The city itself comes alive with a plethora of festive activities and events, making it an irresistible destination during the holiday season.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as the city illuminates with countless dazzling Christmas tree lightings, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you marveling. And if you’re in the mood for some holiday shopping, you’ll be spoiled for choice at the local holiday markets, where you can discover unique and handcrafted gifts that are sure to delight your loved ones.
To add an extra dose of excitement to your holiday experience, here are a few of the many other things to do while you’re in town —
1. ICE! A Charlie Brown Christmas at Gaylord Palms
See your most beloved Charlie Brown Characters like Snoopy, Linus, Lucy, Sally, and Peppermint Patty! Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and slide down icy slopes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Need some snow to make it feel like the holidays? Head on over to the Now Snowing Celebration between 5pm and 9pm nightly from November 26 to December 31, 2023! With warm temperatures, you’ll find snoap (soap bubbles) floating from the sky, an ice skating rink, and ride around town in a horse-drawn carriage!
View the lights on Jeater Bend: Love seeing all the houses lit up for the season? This street in Celebration goes all out during the holidays and is a must-see for those who want a bit of magic (without going to the theme parks)!
2. Orlando Christmas Boat Parades
One of the most unique things to do is go to one of the many boat parades that take place throughout the month of December. You’ll find them at locations from Tarpon Springs and Winter Haven to Merritt Island and Cocoa Beach.
3. Other Notable Mentions
And, we can’t leave this article before mentioning these other incredible places to visit for some extra Christmas cheer:
- Lake Eola’s 72-foot Christmas tree
- Dazzling Nights at Happy P. Leu Gardens
- Beautiful sights at Bok Tower Gardens
AND MORE!
Book Your Holiday Vacation Home Now
Experience the perfect blend of traditional holiday cheer and unique Floridian charm during Christmas in Orlando! Whether you’re enchanted by the magical world of Disney, embarking on thrilling adventures at Universal Studios, or simply immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere of the city, Orlando is the ultimate holiday destination.
Sound like a fantastic getaway to you?! Start by browsing through vacation homes and villas near all the festivities now!
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