Orlando is getting ready for the festive season with new attractions and returning Christmas favourites. Visitors can enjoy celebrations across the theme parks, hotels and wider destination from November to January.
All details correct at the time of publication (11 November 2026).
This year’s highlights include new holiday experiences at Universal Epic Universe, a Christmas drone show featuring LEGO Santa at LEGOLAND Florida Resort and immersive light displays at Dazzling Nights.
There are also plenty of events beyond the theme parks. These include a free holiday wonderland in downtown Orlando, a festive tea at ette hotel and a new Elf Lounge pop-up at Wekiva Island.
The downtown celebrations will also feature North America’s only transportable carillon. Meanwhile, ette hotel is hosting a Nutcracker-inspired holiday tea.
Orlando’s festive appeal has also earned recognition from WalletHub. The destination features on its list of Best Warm-Weather Winter Holiday Destinations.
Casandra Matej, President and CEO of Visit Orlando, said: “The holidays in Orlando offer countless ways to celebrate the season and create holiday memories. From beloved theme park celebrations and dazzling light displays to festive performances, neighbourhood traditions and unique resort offerings, visitors planning a family vacation, a couple’s getaway or multigenerational trip will find their own unforgettable way to celebrate in Orlando.”
Visitors can also find exclusive savings through Visit Orlando’s offers. Free holiday planning support is available too.
This includes OPAL, the destination’s AI-powered trip planner. Travellers can also use Visit Orlando’s complimentary, personalised Vacation Planning Services. Local destination experts can help them put together an Orlando itinerary.
Theme parks
Walt Disney World Resort (7 November–6 January)
Walt Disney World Resort is bringing festive celebrations to all four theme parks. Highlights include Christmas parties, seasonal entertainment and special character experiences.
- Magic Kingdom Park: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes place on selected nights from 8 November to 22 December. The event features Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration. Guests can also enjoy complimentary cookies, festive drinks and food, character experiences and snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Disney Jollywood Nights runs on selected nights from 7 November to 5 January. The event combines Hollywood glamour with festive entertainment. Highlights include Disney Holidays in Hollywood, the Glisten! skating spectacular and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along. Guests can also enjoy seasonal food and drinks, classic characters and nighttime shows.
- EPCOT: The International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth runs from 27 November to 30 December. The global celebration includes the Candlelight Processional, featuring Disney icons and celebrity narrators such as Jodi Benson and Jason Kelce. Holiday Kitchens will also serve seasonal dishes throughout the World Showcase.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: From 13 November to 6 January, the park adds festive touches throughout the day. The Merry Menagerie features handcrafted animal puppets. Guests can also enjoy a seasonal Tree of Life Awakenings show, holiday character meet-and-greets with Mickey and Minnie, and festive music.
Universal Orlando Resort (14 November–3 January)
Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating the season across its four parks. Festive highlights include:
- Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure: The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular brings the classic Christmas story to life in a live show starring the Grinch.
- Universal Holiday Tour: This two-and-a-half-hour guided tour offers exclusive access to selected festive experiences. It also includes reserved viewing areas and character meet-and-greets with the Grinch, Max and Santa.
- Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Seasonal shows and decorations will appear across Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure, Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and the Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe.
- Universal Epic Universe: Celestial Park will feature seasonal lighting and decorations. Festive touches will also extend into SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
- Universal Studios Florida: Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s returns with giant balloons, festive floats, hundreds of performers and Santa.
SeaWorld Orlando (selected dates, 6 November–4 January)
SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration transforms the park into a festive winter wonderland.
Visitors can enjoy millions of lights, live shows and themed parades. The programme also includes Santa meet-and-greets and optional character dining experiences.
The event finishes with the Holiday Reflections: Fireworks Finale.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort (selected dates, 21 November–3 January)
The LEGOLAND Christmas Bricktacular brings festive LEGO decorations and activities to the park.
Highlights include a giant LEGO Christmas tree and a new drone show featuring LEGO Santa. Families can also enjoy themed entertainment, seasonal activities and character meet-and-greets.
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