Central Florida doesn’t boast sub-zero temperatures, but there are still plenty of holiday activities to get you in the festive mood. From ice-skating to singing trees to dazzling light displays, Central Florida has an abundance of family-friendly winter wonderland-like activities that will put even the biggest Grinch in the holiday spirit. Here are a few of our favorite Christmas Events in Central Florida that are sure to bring out the biggest holiday cheer.
Festival of Lights Parade | Dec 9, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.
Photo Credit: City of Kissimmee
Visit Downtown Kissimmee for an annual city tradition to celebrate the winter holiday season. The parade features city, community, business and youth group illuminated floats in downtown Kissimmee led by the Grand Marshal. Other activities include Kissimmee Main Street’s Santa Meet & Greet, Hart Memorial Library’s arts & crafts and the lighting of the Monument of the States. 201 E. Dakin Avenue Kissimmee, FL 34741.
ICE! at Gaylord Palms | November 21, 2017 – January 7, 2018
Photo Credit: www.marriott.com/GaylordPalms
Arguably the most festive hotel in Orlando, Gaylord Palms holds an annual ICE! event that takes holiday cheer to another level. This year, visitors can experience a Christmas Around the World displayed through impressive displays of interactive ice sculptures carved from 2 million pounds of ice. While Floridians might fear the freezing 9-degree temperatures, the Gaylord has visitors covered with complimentary coats and gloves provided.
Now Snowing, Celebration | November 25, 2017 – December 31, 2017
Photo Credit: Orlando Informer
The closest thing many Floridians will get to a white Christmas, the annual Now Snowing event in Celebration is a beloved attraction providing white flurries from the Florida sky. With Charles Dickens Carolers, live performances, horse-drawn carriage rides, an ice rink, a Celebration Express train and photo ops with Santa. There are plenty of opportunities to create long-lasting family memories in this picturesque and charming small town. The real highlight, however, is the nightly snowfall from 6-9 PM that will leave you and your family awe-struck at the holiday wonder.
The Singing Christmas Trees | December 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17
Photo Credit: First Baptist Orlando
For over 30 years, the Singing Trees have been one of Central Florida’s spectacular traditions. Featuring 40-foot-tall Christmas Trees, a huge choir, a full orchestra, and a display of 250,000 lights. Lunch and dinner packages are available. First Baptist Church Orlando, 3000 S. John Young Pkwy. Tickets: $7.25 – $47.25.
Light Up UCF at CFE Arena | Now through January 3, 2018
Photo Credit: Light Up UCF
Light Up UCF “50 Nights of Music, Lights and Ice” runs through January 3 outside CFE Arena. It has become a holiday tradition, offering an 8,000 square foot outdoor ice skating rink, rides, and holiday attractions. And back again this year, it will be SNOWING every evening! In addition to the Ice Rink Pavilion, the Ferris Wheel, Blizzard ride, the Arctic Glide Ice Slide and Santa’s Workshop, there are several opportunities for families including the Holiday Film Festival and the Holiday Light Show.
Downtown for the Holidays | December 1, 2017 – January 6, 2018
The Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree comes alive with a synchronized light and music show. Visit Lake Eola Park every night at 5:45 p.m.; 6:45 p.m.; 7:45 p.m.; 8:45 p.m. or 9:45 p.m. to see this illuminating display of holiday cheer. Experience even more events from Downtown Orlando by visiting their site for more information.