By Kate Cohen
October 28, 2026
Orlando is a magical destination year-round, but during December, it transforms into a shimmering winter wonderland.
While many travelers come to enjoy the holiday season at our world-class theme parks, there are countless holiday experiences held throughout the city.
Planning to visit Orlando during the holidays? The best thing you can do is stay at a hotel like Rosen Shingle Creek, where even your moments of downtime at the resort feel like a special getaway.
Rosen Shingle Creek’s central location is close to International Drive, Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld Orlando, making it an ideal home base for holiday adventures.
Here’s a look at some of the top holiday events in Orlando you won’t want to miss this season.
Key Takeaways
- Why Visit Orlando in December?
- Orlando’s Must-See Holiday Theme Park Events
- Beyond the Theme Parks: Local Holiday Favorites
- Orlando Holiday Dining Experiences at Rosen Shingle Creek
- Why Stay at Rosen Shingle Creek for Your Holiday Getaway
- Make Rosen Shingle Creek Your Orlando Destination for the Holidays
Why Visit Orlando in December?
Central Florida is the perfect winter getaway destination, especially for guests visiting from northern areas in need of a bit of southern sunshine.
Orlando’s comfortable temperatures typically peak in the low- to mid-70s, while lows can get a bit chillier in the 50s at night and early in the morning.
For some, it’s great weather for a dip in a hot tub or a seasonally heated pool. For others, it’s positively perfect for exploring the theme parks without high heat and humidity.
Worried it won’t feel like Christmas without snow? Orlando comes to life every year with beautiful holiday decorations, seasonal entertainment, and an overall festive atmosphere. You’ll hardly miss the snow.
Still, you may find surprise bubble flurries during some of the area’s most popular holiday events – a real treat, especially when paired with mild temperatures.
Orlando’s Must-See Holiday Theme Park Events
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom
There’s nothing quite like Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom during the holiday season.
While you can visit during the day to enjoy the park’s festive decorations, true Christmas enthusiasts should consider attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
This after-hours, separately ticketed event features exclusive entertainment, including the jolly Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show.
Enjoy complimentary seasonal treats like hot cocoa and cookies, and special character meet-and-greets with familiar friends dressed in their holiday finest.
The event is perfect for families, Disney fans, and holiday lovers alike.
In 2026, the event runs on select evenings from November 8 to December 22. We highly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance, as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party often sells out.
One great alternative to Magic Kingdom’s Christmas Party is Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. It has a similar model with party-specific characters, shows, and treats, but more Hollywood glamour holiday vibes than the nostalgic Christmas atmosphere of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
EPCOT is known for its popular annual festivals. In December, it hosts its shortest festival of the year: EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.
This event celebrates holiday traditions from around the world, showcasing food and drink offerings inspired by seasonal flavors from an array of countries and regions.
Throughout the World Showcase, storytellers share cultural holiday tales and customs.
In the evenings, celebrity narrators tell the story of Christmas at the Candlelight Processional, a moving performance featuring a full orchestra and choir.
It’s also the perfect place to meet Santa Claus and have your photo taken during the day.
Part of what makes this Disney World celebration different from Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights is that partaking in the festival is included in your admission ticket to the theme park.
You can experience EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays from November 27 through December 30, 2026.
Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort
Down the street at Universal Orlando Resort, you’ll find even more family-friendly holiday fun to enjoy.
Throughout Universal’s three theme parks, you’ll find festive decor, seasonal foods, and special merchandise to commemorate your holiday trip.
In Universal Islands of Adventure, you’ll find The Grinch in his grouchiest holiday mood, surrounded by Whos and Seuss-ified seasonal celebrations. Catch him in a meet-and-greet or onstage during a performance of “Grinchmas”, a musical spectacular for the whole family to enjoy.
Universal Studios Florida celebrates the holidays with a rousing parade featuring larger-than-life Macy’s balloons and beloved characters from film franchises like Shrek, Despicable Me, and Madagascar.
In all three parks, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter exudes extra Christmassy magic with special live entertainment, treats, and a holiday projection show on the iconic Hogwarts castle.
In 2026, Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, is joining in on the holiday fun.
Mario and Luigi won’t be the only red and green in SUPER NINTENTDO WORLD, which will be receiving a merry makeover.
For the first time ever, the land of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will be decked out for the traditional Viking holiday of Snoggletog. Keep your eyes open for unique decor, exclusive seasonal merchandise, and specialty food and beverages.
Celestial Park will also exude wondrous winter vibes all season long.
Universal Orlando’s Christmas celebrations run from November 14, 2026 through January 3, 2027.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration
Holiday celebrations aren’t just a land affair.
At SeaWorld Orlando, the spectacular Christmas Celebration brings the theme park to life with millions of twinkling lights and extravagantly themed holiday areas.
The Sea of Trees is a must-see feature, lighting up the night sky with illuminated Christmas trees floating on the surface of the sprawling lagoon. Every evening, the lights come to life, dancing to a medley of holiday music.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration is known for its live entertainment, with a variety of performance offerings for the whole family to enjoy.
Enjoy amazing ice-skating during Winter Wonderland on Ice, mischievous sea lion antics in Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas, and the retelling of the Nativity story with puppets and live animals in O Wondrous Night.
Each Christmas Celebration night ends with a breathtaking Fireworks Finale choreographed to joyous holiday music.
The event takes place on select evenings from November 26, 2026 through January 4, 2027 and is included in the cost of SeaWorld Orlando admission.
Beyond the Theme Parks: Local Holiday Favorites
Holiday Events at ICON Park
You’ll likely recognize ICON Park by the towering silhouette of The Orlando Eye, the towering observation wheel standing tall on the International Drive skyline.
Beginning in early November, this popular entertainment destination transforms into a winter wonderland for the holidays.
ICON Park hosts one of Orlando’s best Santa experiences for treasured holiday photos. Meet Santa Claus in a beautifully immersive setting that feels as magical as it looks.
Several of ICON Park’s attractions take on holiday overlays and incorporate festive decor into their exhibits, including SEALIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando.
Enjoy a stroll around the complex in the light of a 50-foot Christmas tree, taking in the seasonal decor and taking advantage of photo ops. Then, nestle into one of ICON Park’s restaurants or bars for a celebratory drink and a bite to eat.
Holiday Shopping at Disney Springs
Want to experience the splendor of Disney without spending the day at a theme park?
Finish (or begin) your holiday shopping at Disney Springs.
This shopping and entertainment complex is brimming with Disney magic, from charming boutiques to the world’s largest collection of Disney Merchandise at World of Disney.
There are also a variety of recognizable retailers like Sephora, Anthropologie, Fabletics, vineyard vines, and so many more.
Disney Springs is a culinary hotspot with restaurants from acclaimed local chefs and celebrity chefs alike.
During the holiday season, Disney Springs hosts its annual Christmas Tree Stroll featuring decorated trees inspired by beloved Disney and Pixar films like Toy Story, Frozen, The Lion King, and Star Wars.
The young and young at heart can stop by to meet Santa Claus for a magical holiday interaction that’s totally free.
Guests can enjoy impressive decorations, wandering live entertainment, and nightly snowfall throughout the festive season.
Admission and parking at Disney Springs are totally free, making it a great Orlando theme park alternative for getting into the holiday spirit.
Orlando Holiday Light Displays
During the holiday season, The City Beautiful comes to life with celebrations inspired by time-honored traditions.
Here are a few of our favorite Orlando-area holiday festivities to explore in 2026.
Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens – This popular event transforms the 50-acre historic botanical gardens into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Enjoy spectacular light displays, live music, holiday treats, and nightly snowfall.
Dr. Phillips Center Frontyard Holiday Festival – Christmas village vibes abound with this returning celebration in the heart of downtown Orlando. Joyous performances, outdoor movie nights, fireside s’mores, and story time with Santa come together for an elegant family-friendly festival.
Downtown for the Holidays – Another downtown Orlando celebration takes place at Lake Eola Park. Stroll around the lake and take in the sights of sparkling lights, oversized holiday decor, and an impressive Christmas tree with a synchronized light show. Meet Santa and the Grinch on select evenings, and visit the Merry Market on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Now Snowing – The charming, picturesque town of Celebration is hosting its 28th annual Now Snowing event. Enjoy wintery activities like ice skating, horse drawn carriage rides, and visits with Santa, as well as strolling carolers and, of course, falling snow.
Tis the Season – Named an Official Hallmark Christmas Town in 2026, Winter Garden is known for its historic beauty and small-town charm. Their 39th annual Christmas event includes light displays, holiday-themed photo stations, and horse-drawn carriage tours. Check their daily event schedule for additional festive offerings on select evenings.
Holiday Dining Experiences in Orlando at Rosen Shingle Creek
Planning on spending Christmas Day in Orlando?
Rosen Shingle Creek is hosting two spectacular dining events for guests in search of a culinary celebration.
The first is the Christmas Day Brunch at Cala Bella, the resort’s signature Mediterranean-Italian restaurant.
From noon to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 25, 2026, guests can enjoy an exquisite array of dishes encompassing traditional flavors and innovative interpretations of Christmas classics.
Fill your plate with beef Wellington, butter poached Maine lobster, tender carved turkey, slow-smoked prime rib, and ricotta ravioli with snow crab. The buffet will also have an all-day breakfast display, family-style sides, and a masterful selection of handmade desserts.
If you’ll be ringing in 2027 at Rosen Shingle Creek, we have celebratory events for you to enjoy, as well.
Treat yourself to a four-course dinner at our legacy steakhouse, A Land Remembered. This year’s menu features a divine split pea soup, foie gras torchon with a fragrant hibiscus marmalade, and a bone-in New York strip topped with truffle butter and presented on a smoked celeriac puree.
Then, bid 2026 a fond farewell with the final dessert course, a black sesame chocolate mousse and smoked vanilla bean mousse served with a blackberry coulis and a crispy almond crumble.
Cala Bella will also be hosting a four-course New Year’s Eve Dinner. Here you’ll enjoy a menu of insalata invernale made with fresh citrus and fennel, pappardelle al ragu with tender braised lamb, and a flavorful local catch and shrimp risotto prepared with roasted tomatoes and a lemon prosecco beurre blanc.
End your meal with an elegant champagne strawberry torte, made of fluffy strawberry mousse, almond joconde, strawberry champagne gelee, and a champagne sabayon.
As the clock nears midnight, move the party to Headwaters Lounge, where we’ll be ringing in the new year with music, dancing, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Why Stay at Rosen Shingle Creek for Your Holiday Getaway
Rosen Shingle Creek is the perfect destination for your Orlando holiday getaway.
Our proximity to the most popular attractions in Orlando means you’re never far from your next adventure. But set on a sprawling 255 acres of lush green land, you’ll never feel crowded, despite being minutes away from the biggest theme parks in the world.
In fact, Rosen Shingle Creek is one of the closest hotels to Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.
While there are plenty of exciting things to experience throughout Central Florida, we highly recommend building some downtime into your itinerary to take advantage of the hotel’s luxurious amenities.
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment at The Spa at Shingle Creek. Amidst the chaos of the season, you deserve to indulge in self-care with a package like the Holiday Season CBD Reset.
Take advantage of the Orlando’s beautiful winter weather and schedule a tee time on our championship golf course, Shingle Creek Golf Club. Or get a head start on your resolution to learn how to play with a lesson at Shingle Creek Golf Academy, where our award-winning instructor is ready to help you improve your game.
Of course, nothing says relaxation like lounging by a sparkling swimming pool with a drink in hand. Pick up something delicious to sip or nibble from Cat-Tails Pool Bar and Grille and settle into a lounge chair beside one of Rosen Shingle Creek’s four seasonally heated pools.
When you get hungry, Rosen Shingle Creek has 11 onsite dining outlets serving cuisines like hand rolled sushi, bold Mexican, juicy burgers, and of course, heritage steaks and farm-fresh Italian.
Or, stay cozy and comfortable in your guestroom and order from the extensive in-room dining menu for a relaxed experience that never compromises on flavor.
Whatever brings you to Orlando, make Rosen Shingle Creek your home for the holidays.
Make Rosen Shingle Creek Your Orlando Destination for the Holidays
There are endless ways to enjoy the holiday season in Orlando.
Whether you’re planning to experience the magic of the theme parks or celebrate like a local, you’re sure to find yourself embracing the spirit of the season.
Rosen Shingle Creek puts guests in the heart of the action while providing a luxurious retreat after each day’s adventure.
Book your December stay at Rosen Shingle Creek so you can experience the beauty, fantasy, and fun of the holidays in Orlando.
