Although the pandemic is still lingering over our heads, local holiday celebrations from area communities to the theme parks are in full swing. While everyone is eager to spread some cheer, please check with event organizers directly for specific information on their COVID-19 protocols.

 

NOW THROUGH DEC. 18 

Christmas, My Way: A Sinatra Holiday Bash

Get into the holiday spirit with this musical inspired by Old Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra. The show incorporates seasonal favorites and 40 of Sinatra’s biggest hits, including “Fly Me to The Moon,” “That’s Life,” “New York, New York,” “Mistletoe and Holly,” and many more.

The Winter Park Playhouse, times vary, $20-$45, Winter Park, WinterParkPlayhouse.org

 

MONDAYS THROUGH DEC. 20 

Pet Nights With Santa 

Let your furry friends join in on the holiday fun by getting photos with St. Nick. This event is limited so reservations are recommended to make sure your pets don’t miss out on meeting Santa up close.

Altamonte Mall, 5 p.m., $19.99-$49.99, Altamonte Springs, AltamonteMall.com 

 

NOW THROUGH DEC. 24

The Wishing Forest 

Celebrate the holiday season by exploring The Wishing Forest at the Altamonte Mall. The Wishing Forest is a series of experiences that put a playful twist on classic holiday scenes where you can play games, make a wish and take photos with Santa.

Altamonte Mall Center Court, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., $20, Altamonte Springs, AltamonteMall.com

 

NOW THROUGH DEC. 30 

Magic of McKee Festival of Lights 

Brighten up your holidays with a visit to McKee Botanical Garden, which is illuminated with thousands of professionally installed LED lights, lighted holiday displays and festive decorations. This special event also includes holiday treats, music from local entertainers and holiday movies on a large screen outdoors.

McKee Botanical Garden, 6-8 p.m., $10-$15, Vero Beach, McKeeGarden.org

 

The DeLand Christmas Light Show 

With almost 10,000 LED lights and over 2,100 individual lighting channels, The DeLand Christmas Light Show is a fun-filled experience you don’t want to miss. Enjoy the show from the comfort of your car and listen over the radio or bring a blanket or chairs and enjoy the show up close.

Stetson Baptist Church, 5:30-8 p.m., free, DeLand, StetsonBaptistChurch.org

 

Winter Wonderland at Wekiva Island 

This year’s Winter Wonderland will feature a breathtaking Christmas tree forest full of decorated trees with an abundance of lights. The schoolhouse will be made up to look like a giant gingerbread house, and “snow” flurries will fall nightly and guests can also take a “sleigh” ride down the river.

Wekiva Island, times vary, $2, Longwood, WekivaIsland.com

 

NOW THROUGH JAN. 2 

Night of a Million Lights 

This one-of-a-kind, spectacular light show gives guests the full immersive experience. Come out to Give Kids The World Village and stroll through the decorated trails, enjoy live music and food, take a tram ride through the storybook village and make unforgettable memories with your friends and family. 

Give Kids The World Village, 5-10 p.m., adult tickets range from $25-$40, children tickets are $15-$20, Kissimmee, GKTW.org 

 

Christmas at Gaylord Palms Resort 

Explore acres of twinkling lights and decorations and more than 12 hours of exciting holiday activities, shows, and events at one of Orlando’s favorite places to celebrate the holidays.

Gaylord Palms Resort, times vary, events and activities ticketed separately, Kissimmee, ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.Marriott.com

 

Oh, What Fun! 

Immerse yourself into a spectacular winter wonderland as Lake Nona Town Center transforms into Peppermint Square, full of sweet treats, live music and a photo op with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Lake Nona Town Center, times vary, free, Orlando, OhWhatFunLakeNona.com

 

NOW THROUGH JAN. 6 

Downtown for the Holidays

Throughout the holiday season, downtown Orlando offers free holiday events for all to enjoy. Stroll around to check out the dazzling holiday decorations and lights, see the beautifully illuminated Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree and catch a movie at Lake Eola Park. Lake Eola Park, free, Orlando, DowntownOrlando.com

NOW THROUGH JAN. 9 

Dazzling Nights 

Take in a magical experience the whole family can enjoy. This year Dazzling Nights is getting totally redesigned and incorporating a brand-new show. It includes a giant maze of lights, The Rose Garden, an area with 185 hanging Moroccan lanterns and more.

Leu Gardens, 5:30-9 p.m., $25, free admission for children 2 and under, Orlando, DazzlingOrlando.com

 

NOW THROUGH JAN. 31 

St. Augustine Night of Lights 

Now in its 28th year, the fan favorite Night of Lights is back to once again thrill visitors of all ages. Listed as one of the top 10 holiday light displays across the country, downtown St. Augustine is covered in millions of lights from the ground to the rooftops. 

Historic Downtown St. Augustine, 6 p.m., free, St. Augustine, VistitStAugustine.com

 

DEC. 1-24

A Christmas Carol

This Christmas classic comes to life on stage as Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. Enjoy some of your favorite carols and awe-inspiring special effects as you watch the story of one man changing for the better. 

Orlando Shakes, times vary, $22-$30, Orlando, Orlandoshakes.org

 

 

DEC. 10 

A Holiday Homecoming: The Annual CFCArts Holiday Extravaganza 

The Central Florida Community Choir, members of the CFCArts Symphony Orchestra and the CFCArts Dance Company return to present their annual Holiday Homecoming, which is jam-packed with favorite holiday classics the whole family will enjoy.

Northland Church, 7:30 p.m., $10-$50, Longwood, CFCArts.com 

 

DEC. 11

Greg Warmoth Reindeer Run

On Dasher, on Dancer, it’s time for the Reindeer Run. Jingle all the way to the finish line as you and your family run or walk the festive 3-mile route through SeaWorld in your most festive running gear. 

SeaWorld Orlando, 7:15 a.m., $35-$38, Orlando, TrackShack.com

 

9th Annual Violectric Holiday Show

The electric string rock band is back and ready to put on a spectacular holiday show with tons of traditional holiday music such as “O Christmas Tree,” “The First Noel” and “Hanukkah, O Hanukkah” mashed up with classic rock tunes. 

Walt Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park, 7 p.m., free, Orlando, Violectric.net

 

Holiday on the Drive

Edgewater Drive comes to life this holiday season. Enjoy photos with Santa, arts and crafts, shopping, a variety of different foods and much more.

Edgewater Drive, 12-4 p.m., free, Orlando, CollegeParkMainStreet.com

 

Florida Philharmonia: Home for the Holidays 

Get into the holiday spirit with live music from the Florida Philharmonia. Home for the Holidays will feature some of the most beloved holiday classics including “O Holy Night” and “The Christmas Song.” The orchestra’s performances will be accompanied by the extraordinary voice of soloist Marcella Richardson.

Mainstage Theater at the Clermont Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m., $10.75-$35, Clermont, ClermontPerformingArts.com

 

A Spectacular Christmas 

Enjoy an exciting journey of dance and music to celebrate joy and the holiday spirit and find the true meaning of Christmas.

Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, 5 p.m., $25, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

 

DEC. 12 

Santa’s Toy Drive Car Show 

It’s the season of giving, so join the Promenade at Sunset Walk and Florida Highway Patrol and donate unwrapped toys for the children of Central Florida. Take a look at the selection of classic, new and modern cars in the show, and stick around for a special appearance by Santa.  

Promenade at Sunset Walk, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., free, Kissimmee, SunsetWalk.com 

 

Santa Cares Day 

The Altamonte Mall is hosting a sensory-friendly Santa Cares Day for children within all spectrums of special needs and their families to take family photos with Santa. 

Altamonte Mall, 9:30-10:30 a.m., free, Altamonte Springs, AltamonteMall.com 

 

Breakfast with Santa 

Santa is making an early visit to the Alfond Inn for a special breakfast celebration. Enjoy a full buffet breakfast with your friends and family and stick around to meet Santa Claus. 

Park Avenue Ballroom at The Alfond Inn, 9-11 a.m., $20 for children, $40 for adults, Winter Park, TheAlfondInn.com

 

DEC. 15

Orlando Gay Chorus Christmas Concert: Together at Christmas

Now enjoying its 30th season, the Orlando Gay Chorus is back to present classic Christmas songs for all to enjoy. The show features singing and dancing from one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the U.S as they reflect their motto: singing the word to a better place this holiday season.

The Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $20, Sanford, RitzTheaterSanford.com

 

DEC. 16

Breakfast with Santa at Oviedo

Santa Claus will be joining young guests and their families for a holiday celebration during the most important meal of the day. Come early to ensure that you will be around for Santa’s story time, a sing-along and more activities.

Oviedo Amphitheater and Cultural Center, 9 a.m.-noon, $10 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under, Oviedo

 

DEC. 17

A Christmas Carol 

This critically acclaimed ensemble of singers and dancers brings horror and terror alive with the retelling of the classic story of mean-spirited Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come.

The Ritz Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $23-$30, Sanford, RitzTheaterSanford.com

 

12Ks of Christmas

Don’t miss this fun, Christmas-themed 12K and 5K run that the whole family can enjoy. It will have hot cocoa, appearances by jolly old St. Nick and his elves, photo ops and much more holiday fun.

Hamlin Town Center, 7:30 a.m., registration fees vary, Winter Garden, FloridaRunningCo.com

 

DEC. 18 

Christmas Symphony Singers

Sing along with the Mount Dora Choir as the symphony recreates all your favorite Christmas songs.

Mount Dora Community Building, 6-8 p.m., admission fees vary, Mount Dora, MountDora.com

 

DEC. 19 

Sanford Jazz Ensemble Christmas Concert: A Very Weaver Christmas

​This special event features all your favorite Christmas tunes, including “Frosty the Snowman,” “Run Rudolph Run,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and many more.

The Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 3 p.m., $20, Sanford, RitzTheaterSanford.com

 

DEC. 21 

Clara’s Christmas Adventure 

This performance is a full-length production remake of the classic holiday tale of The Nutcracker. Attendees will be transported to the Land of Sweets and encounter a cast of colorful characters including tap-dancing Russians, acrobatic Arabians and the enchanting Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy, set to Tchaikovsky’s original score.  

Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, 2 and 7 p.m., $29.75, Orlando, DrPhillipsCenter.org

 

DEC. 31 

New Years at the Grove 

Ring in the new year with friends, family and The Grove. Enjoy the resort’s many amenities during the day and end the night with a kids New Year’s party and New Year’s Eve Bash at Longboard Bar & Grill.

The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando, 6 p.m.-midnight, must be a registered resort guest to participate in these activities, GroveResortOrlando.com

 

New Year’s Eve Gala

Ring in the new year at Alfond Inn with live music from BUZZCATZ, a premium open bar, a variety of delicious food stations, a livestream of the ball drop, professional photos and more.

The Alfond Inn, 8 p.m.-12:15 a.m., $219, Orlando, TheAlfondInn.com

 

AT THE PARKS

 

Legoland 

Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

This jolly time of year features a giant LEGO Christmas tree, unforgettable seasonal shows, holiday characters, special treats, LEGO activities, twinkling lights and more.

This event is included in regular park admission and runs through Dec. 31.

 

SeaWorld Orlando 

SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration

SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a winter wonderland sparkling with over 3 million beautiful lights. Don’t miss out on the spectacular fireworks show, an ice skating extravaganza, Sesame Street Parade and the chance to meet Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

This event is included in regular park admission and runs through Jan. 2.

 

Universal Orlando Resort 

Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s

Your favorite minions are back again to help spread holiday cheer during Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s larger-than-life balloon floats. See some of your favorite characters from children’s classics Shrek and Madagascar riding the floats and spreading cheer.

This event is included in regular park admission tickets and runs through Jan. 2.

 

Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Hang out with Dr. Seuss’ Whos from Whoville as you spread holiday cheer and look out for the mean one himself for a special photo opportunity. Don’t miss the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular as you watch a hilarious reenactment of the class Grinch tale. 

 

This event is included in regular park admission tickets and runs through Jan. 2 

 

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter 

Join the celebration as the streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley transform into a festive winter wonderland. Enjoy a hot Butterbeer and holiday treats as you listen to the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees perform holiday classics. To finish up the night, watch as Hogwarts castle lights up. 

 

This event is included in regular park admission tickets and runs through Jan. 2.

 

ICON Park 

Santa Workshop Experience 

ICON Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland complete with all of your favorite festivities. It includes photos with Santa, a ride on The Pearl Express Train and a chance to take flight on The Wheel as you overlook the twinkling lights.

This event runs nightly through Dec. 24.

 

Walt Disney World Resort 

Disney Very Merriest After Hours

Celebrate the holidays at Magic Kingdom with Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmas Time Fireworks Show featuring classic Christmas tunes. Hang out with your favorite Disney characters as you watch a performance at Cinderella Castle inspired by beloved Magic Kingdom holiday shows of the past—including Mickey’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, Celebrate the Season and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.

This event runs nightly through Dec. 21.

 

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Enjoy various holiday traditions and all the festivities the 11 World Showcases have to offer at Epcot. After being suspended in 2020, the Candlelight Processional is back and features a moving presentation of the Christmas story in readings by a celebrity narrator and music by a mass choir and 50-piece orchestra. Try festive dishes, sweet treats and drinks with Holiday Kitchens and the beloved Holiday Cookie Stroll.

This event runs nightly through Dec. 30.

 

Sunset Seasons Greetings 

Once night falls, Disney’s Hollywood Studio transforms into a magical holiday scene as billboards come to life and the Tower of Terror transforms to tell the stories. Your favorite characters from Toy Story and The Muppets will make an appearance along with Mickey and Minnie to help celebrate the holiday tradition. 

This event is included in regular park admission and runs nightly through Dec. 30.