Christmas in Orlando is a one-of-a-kind experience where holiday magic meets sunny skies and endless attractions. Whether you’re here for world-famous theme parks, festive events, or spectacular Orlando shopping, this city offers something for everyone during the holiday season.
If you are planning a getaway, consider staying in one of our Orlando vacation rentals for a comfortable and convenient base to explore all the holiday activities. Whether you are engaging in delightful Orlando shopping or participating in family-friendly activities, our vacation rentals in Orlando, Florida, ensure you are close to all the action.
Enchanting Light Displays
One of the most iconic features of Christmas in Orlando is the myriad of enchanting light displays that pop up around the city. Here are just a few of our favorite spots to view enchanting holiday lights!
Lake Eola Park
Lake Eola Park is the perfect spot to enjoy the holiday season in downtown Orlando. Each year, the Park transforms into a festive wonderland with its iconic towering Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights that reflect beautifully off the lake. Stroll around the Park and enjoy holiday music, light displays, and scenic views of the city skyline.
The Lake Eola Holiday Market is also a must-visit, offering local crafts, festive treats, and unique gifts. Just minutes away from your Orlando vacation rental, Lake Eola Park is a magical holiday experience you won’t want to miss.
Leu Gardens
Transforming into a luminous wonderland, Leu Gardens is an enchanting place during the holiday season. Visitors are greeted with Moroccan lanterns hanging overhead, interactive lights, and a stunning 70-foot-long light tunnel. Families can indulge in a unique play area with 8-foot tall rollable ornaments and weave through thousands of laser lights, with snow adding to the enchanting ambiance. New attractions for this year include a nighttime show featuring 100 ten-foot tall beacons of light and a 30-foot tall Christmas tree adorned with shimmering gold sequins. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the Wintery Florida display by the Leu Gardens Horticulture Team while enjoying sweet and festive treats.
Winter Park’s Holiday Lights
Winter Park offers a holiday experience rich in tradition and charm, making it a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Orlando while still embracing the festive spirit. Just a short drive from the city’s main attractions, Winter Park shines with its beautiful holiday lights and timeless atmosphere.
From November 29, you can enjoy live music every Friday night from 5 pm to 8 pm, with free admission starting at 4 pm. One of the season’s highlights is the 46th Annual Christmas in the Park on December 5, held in Central Park. This beloved event features the lighting of stunning turn-of-the-century Tiffany windows, accompanied by performances from the Bach Festival Choir, Brass Ensemble, and a youth choir. It’s a picture-perfect holiday celebration that beautifully captures the essence of Christmas in Orlando!
Festival Food and Holiday Shopping
When it comes to holiday shopping and festival food, Orlando offers experiences that are hard to beat. For those seeking unique and artisanal gifts, the local holiday markets and craft fairs provide an opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind items while supporting small businesses.
Orlando Holiday Market
Downtown Orlando buzzes with life during December, offering free holiday events that bring the community together in festive cheer. The Holiday Market at Lake Eola Park is a haven for those looking to support local businesses while finding the perfect gift. The market runs Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 pm to 9 pm and Sundays from 5 pm to 8 pm, allowing plenty of time for visitors to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season.
Annual Light Up SoDo
Light Up SoDo is another fantastic family and pet-friendly event that celebrates the holiday season with immense vigor. Taking place in the bustling SoDo district, this event features appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus, a holiday maker’s market, and a plethora of food trucks and vendors. Kids can enjoy bounce houses and face painting, while adults can relax at the beer and wine garden. With live performances and appearances from stilt walkers and local businesses, this event encapsulates the community spirit of Christmas in Orlando.
Family-Friendly Activities
Orlando’s roster of family-friendly activities ensures that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, enjoys the holiday season. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with enchanting events and attractions that create magical memories for visitors of all ages.
Gatorland’s Christmas Extravaganza
Experience a unique blend of holiday cheer and Florida culture at Gatorland’s 4th Annual Holiday Ho, Ho, Ho-down. This event is packed with music, festive displays, interactive characters, and an array of seasonal treats. The highlight is capturing a photo with Gator Claus aboard his swamp-worthy sleigh and singing along with the Florida Skunk Ape. The event also hosts unique arts and crafts vendors, offering a treasure trove of holiday gifts. A visit to the Gatorland gift shop provides a one-of-a-kind Orlando shopping experience to cap off the festive adventure!
Crayola Colorful Christmas
From November 23 to January 5, 2025, Crayola Experience offers a holiday extravaganza filled with vibrant colors and endless fun. Kids can meet and interact with animatronic Christmas characters, step into a life-sized snow globe, and watch light shows featuring Scarlet and her singing reindeer friends. The event also includes a seasonal scavenger hunt, crafting handmade gifts, live entertainment, and an array of holiday treats. This colorful and immersive experience guarantees a joyful and creative holiday.
Plan Your Visit
Plan your dream vacation to Orlando with Orlando Rent A Villa. Discover a variety of vacation rental options to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of Florida’s entertainment capital!
Book Your Orlando Vacation Rental with Orlando Rent A Villa
At Orlando Rent A Villa, we’re here to make your holiday season unforgettable with our wide selection of vacation rentals in Orlando. Whether you’re looking for a spacious home to host a family gathering or a cozy retreat for a peaceful holiday escape, we have the perfect property to meet your needs. Our rentals are just minutes from Orlando’s top holiday attractions, allowing you to easily enjoy everything from festive theme park events to magical light displays.
Each of our vacation rentals in Orlando is thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay, from fully stocked kitchens for holiday meals to spacious living areas where your family can gather and celebrate. Plus, after a day of exploring the holiday sights, you can unwind in your own private space, making your Orlando vacation both convenient and comfortable.
This holiday season, experience the magic of Christmas in Orlando like never before. Book your stay with Orlando Rent A Villa today and create holiday memories that will last a lifetime!
