Orlando in the winter of 2025–2026 is full of festive magic, theme park fun, and cozy seasonal experiences. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Orlando this winter.
🎄 Iconic Holiday Events & Theme Park Magic
1. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Nov 7 – Dec 21, 2025
Magic Kingdom transforms into a holiday wonderland with snow on Main Street, festive parades, fireworks, and complimentary cocoa and cookies.
Website: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/holidays/
2. Universal Orlando’s Holidays Celebration
Nov 21, 2025 – Jan 3, 2026
Experience Grinchmas™, live shows, and festive décor across Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Don’t miss the Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast.
Website: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/events/holidays-at-universal
3. SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration
Nov 7, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026
Enjoy holiday-themed animal shows, ice-skating performances, and festive treats. The Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer zone is a family favorite.
Website: https://www.experiencekissimmee.com/press/press-releases/whats-new-kissimmee-fall-and-winter-2025
❄️ Local Festivals & Free Holiday Fun
4. Oh, What Fun!® in Lake Nona
Weekends, Dec 6–22, 2025
A free, family-friendly street festival featuring hourly snowfall, live music, holiday markets, and a Santa meet-and-greet.
Website: https://www.casiola.com/blog/orlando-winter-events/
5. Cranes Roost Park Holiday Lights
Nov 28, 2025 – Jan 2, 2026
Over 200,000 lights illuminate the park, with nightly displays and occasional visits from Santa and snow fairies.
Website: https://www.orlandodatenightguide.com/free-holiday-events-23121/
6. Dinos in Lights at Orlando Science Center
Nov 8, 2025 – Jan 6, 2026
A festive light show featuring dinosaurs, included with general admission.
Website: https://www.visitorlando.com/blog/post/holiday-season-orlando/
7. Winter Park Christmas Parade
Date TBD
The longest-running holiday parade in Central Florida, featuring marching bands and vintage cars along Park Avenue.
Website: https://www.casiola.com/blog/orlando-winter-events/
🧊 Cozy Seasonal Experiences
8. Winter Wonderland at Grande Lakes Orlando
Nov 27, 2025 – Jan 3, 2026
Enjoy ice skating, a European-inspired holiday market, and festive fire pits with cocoa and wine.
Website: https://www.grandelakes.com/things-to-do/winter
9. Christmas at Gaylord Palms – ICE!
Nov 14, 2025 – Jan 7, 2026
Experience 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures depicting scenes from "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer."
Website: https://www.christmasatgaylordpalms.com/
🎭 Cultural & Artistic Events
10. Orlando Fringe Winter Mini-Fest
Dates TBD
A 4-day celebration of indie theater, including original plays, music performances, and storytelling at downtown venues.
Website: https://www.casiola.com/blog/orlando-winter-events/
11. Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art
Nov 14–23, 2025
An annual event featuring beautifully decorated trees, holiday shopping, and family-friendly activities.
Website: https://www.visitorlando.com/blog/post/holiday-season-orlando/