News Summary
Orlando is filled with holiday joy this season, offering families a variety of free festivity activities. From dazzling light displays to parades and seasonal decorations at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels, the community is alive with holiday spirit. Notable events include the Christmas Tree Stroll at Disney Springs, the City of Orlando Tree Lighting Celebration, and Winter Park’s classic Christmas Parade. These celebrations not only bring families together but also foster community engagement, making the holiday season a time for sharing and giving.
Orlando is bustling with holiday cheer this season as families can take advantage of a range of free festive events throughout the area. From dazzling light displays to community parades, the Orlando area is alive with opportunities to celebrate the season.
The Walt Disney World Resort Hotels will transform into a holiday wonderland from November 15, 2025, to January 1, 2026. Each resort will feature elaborate decorations, welcoming guests to enjoy the holiday spirit. Notably, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort will not house its iconic gingerbread house this year due to ongoing construction.
At Disney Springs, the Christmas Tree Stroll invites visitors to view uniquely designed trees inspired by beloved Disney characters. This event runs from November 8, 2025, until January 1, 2026, with maps distributed at various stores for those eager to embark on this festive treasure hunt.
The city’s holiday light displays will shine brightly at Cranes Roost Park, where over 200,000 lights illuminate the area from November 28, 2025, to January 2, 2026. The official kickoff event, Light Up the Holidays, is set for December 6, promising a dazzling experience for families.
Another unique immersive experience is the Magic of the Holidays at Park Avenue District, which runs from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026. This festivity incorporates the music and scents of the season, creating a multi-sensory celebration.
For those looking for a wintry experience, Celebration Town Center will feature Nightly Snowfall from November 29 to December 31, 2025, showcasing the popular event, “Now Snowing” which promises a family-friendly atmosphere.
Additionally, the Casselberry Annual Tree Lighting is set to take place from mid-November to January 4, 2026, lighting up Lake Concord Park for all visitors. The Winter Garden Light Show at City Hall will also entertain families with shows scheduled on specific weekends in December.
On November 21, 2025, at 6 PM, ICON Park will host its Holiday Tree Lighting, and on December 6, 2025, families can join the Avalon Park Holiday Celebration (Avalon Aglow), which features a parade and a fireworks display at 9 PM.
Orlando residents can also join in the celebratory atmosphere at the City of Orlando Tree Lighting Celebration on December 5, 2025, rounding off the evening with performances, food trucks, and visits from Santa.
Families can partake in the cherished Winter Park’s Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade, a tradition spanning over 60 years, which takes place on December 6, 2025, starting at 9 AM. The DeLand Rotary Christmas Parade will also add to the festive excitement on the same day at 6 PM.
Another event, Holinights Celebration at Promenade, will run from November 20 to December 25, 2025, featuring tree lighting, live music, and street markets. Moreover, the Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland will be available from November 28 to December 25, 2025, complete with nightly snow flurries, movie nights, and visits from Santa.
The holiday season will also bring music and theatrical performances throughout December, including local schools’ concerts that incorporate community family engagement. Many events will include drives for local charities, supporting educational outreach and involving students in the spirit of giving.
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Additional Resources
- Orlando Date Night Guide: Christmas & Holiday Events
- Wikipedia: Holidays
- Visit Orlando: Christmas & Holiday Events
- Google Search: Christmas holiday events Orlando
- Business Wire: Evermore Orlando Resort
- Google Scholar: Holiday celebrations Orlando
- Orlando Date Night Guide: Free Holiday Events
- Google News: Holiday events Orlando
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
