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WHAT:
The most wonderful time of the year is here in Orlando. Throughout November and December, the city invites Central Florida residents and guests to celebrate the holidays with family-friendly holiday events and activities for all ages to enjoy, furthering the city’s continued commitment to providing a wide variety of entertainment and festivities for everyone.
For more information on events visit orlando.gov/events and downtownorlando.com/holidays.
WHEN & WHERE:
Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Lake Eola Christmas Tree Installation
Lake Eola Park, Washington Plaza, 195 North Rosalind Avenue
The Lake Eola Christmas tree will be installed at Lake Eola Park’s Washington Plaza over the course of four days. The 64-foot tree will be adorned with close to 2,000 ornaments and 200 pounds of lights, which will musically sync with the lights on the Lake Eola fountain and will provide animation during the shows.
Sunday, November 17, 2024
3 p.m. - Handel’s Messiah
Steinmetz Hall, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 South Magnolia Avenue
Handel’s Messiah is widely regarded as one of the finest and most well-known classical music works ever written. With this performance, Messiah Choral Society celebrates 51 years of gifting the Central Florida community with free performances of this masterwork, accompanied by a professional orchestra and soloists, and conducted by music director John V. Sinclair. The concert has become a holiday tradition and is viewed by many as the kickoff to the holiday music season.
For more information and to RSVP to this free event visit drphillipscenter.org/handels-messiah.
Thursday, November 21, 2024
6 p.m. - City District’s Deck the District
Church Street Plaza, 54 West Church Street
City District’s signature Deck the District will feature a gingerbread building contest at Hawkers headquarters, puppy photos with Santa, live music performed by DTO Live and the City District tree lighting to end the night at 8:45 p.m.
Friday, November 22, 2024 - Monday, January 6, 2025
Holiday Stroll
Between Lake Eola Park and Central Business District in Downtown Orlando
A festive journey awaits as you embark on a holiday stroll between scenic Lake Eola Park to the vibrant Central Business District in downtown Orlando. The path is adorned with whimsical ornaments and oversized holiday decor, transforming the cityscape into a winter wonderland. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you meander through the heart of downtown Orlando, taking in the dazzling lights and joyful decorations that line your route. This holiday stroll promises a delightful fusion of nature, urban charm, and festive spirit, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Enjoy the stroll between November 22 - January 6, 2024.
Saturday, November 23, 2024
4:30 p.m. - Jingle Eve at Ivanhoe Village
Gaston Edwards Park, 1236 North Orange Avenue
Annually organized by the Ivanhoe Village Main Street District, Jingle Eve is a family-friendly holiday celebration featuring a beer garden, wine walk, food trucks, local artists, vendors, a children’s holiday village with arts and crafts and a bubble bus, fireworks, special event promotions by Ivanhoe Village businesses and live musical performances.
Sunday, November 24, 2024
7 a.m. - Jack Kazanzas Star Installation
**Raising of the star will take place between 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Downtown Orlando, Intersection of Orange Avenue and Pine Street
An Orlando holiday tradition, the raising of the Jack Kazanzas Star will be hung 50 feet above downtown Orlando on the morning of Sunday, November 24, 2024 at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Pine Street. The more than 50-year tradition of raising the 600-pound golden star started in the 1950s. Since then, the star has come to symbolize the start of the holiday season in Orlando
Friday, November 29, 2024 - Sunday, January 5, 2025
9 a.m.- 4 p.m. - Holidays at Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue
Holidays at Leu Gardens returns featuring thousands of festive and vibrant poinsettias along with seasonal flowers and foliage to create a holiday themed garden. Additionally, guests can explore inside the historic Leu House where there will be a number of traditional holiday decorations adorning the home, as well as a special garden gnome scavenger hunt for the kids. These experiences are included with general admission.
For more information on Holidays at Leu Gardens and to purchase general admission tickets visit leaugardens.org/holidays-at-leu-gardens.
Friday, November 29, 2024 - Sunday, January 5, 2025
5:30 p.m. - Dazzling Nights
Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue
Orlando’s Harry P. Leu Gardens will transform once again into a stunning, winter wonderland featuring a million dazzling lights, shining forests, magical displays, music and beautiful sculptures during Dazzling Nights. This family-friendly adventure gives guests an opportunity to enjoy interactive holiday experience with new lighting installations, meet and greet characters, a kids’ play area and bask on the light of our tallest tree to date. Come and immerse yourself in the wonder of the holidays.
For more information and to purchase tickets visit dazzlingorlando.com.
Saturday, November 30, 2024
All Day - Small Business Saturday
Orlando’s 12 Main Street Districts
Small Business Saturday provides a unique holiday shopping experience and encourages residents to support many of the independent, family-owned retailers and restaurants throughout the City of Orlando, including downtown and in Orlando’s 12 Main Street Districts.
All Day - Ship, Shop & Score in Curry Ford West
Curry Ford West, district-wide on Curry Ford Road between Conway Road and Warwick Place
After shopping, dining or utilizing services from any Curry Ford West business on Small Business Saturday, save your receipt and present it at one of the Curry Ford West pop-up tents scattered throughout the district for a chance to win a prize.
2 p.m. - Shop Small Sip and Stroll
Audubon Park Garden District, Check in at 2906 Corrine Drive
Join Audubon Park Garden District as they celebrate Small Business Saturday with their Shop Small Sip and Stroll. Explore multiple stops throughout the Audubon Park Garden District, sipping on beverages, and supporting local businesses. This event is the perfect opportunity to discover unique shops, find new makers, and enjoy a fun day out.
Saturday, November 30, 2024
12 p.m. - Thornton Park District We Sell - Small Business Saturday
Thornton Park District, 431 East Central Boulevard and 420 East Church Street
Join Thornton Park District as they partner with She Sells for a two-block Small Business Saturday celebration and market, featuring more than 70 local vendors, food trucks and entertainment.
Saturday, November 30, 2024
5:30 p.m. - College Park Christmas Tree Lighting at Albert Park
Albert Park, 2400 Edgewater Drive
Join College Park Main Street and the community for the annual lighting of the College Park Christmas Tree at Albert Park.
Saturday, November 30, 2024
Clare and The Chocolate Nutcracker
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 South Magnolia Avenue
Sponsored by the Downtown Development Board, Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker is an urban adaptation of the classic Nutcracker ballet, taking the audience on a magical journey through cultural lands to the Kingdom of Toys.
For more information and to purchase tickets visit drphillipscenter.org/clare-and-the-chocolate-nutcracker.
Thursday, December 5, 2024
5 p.m. - Holiday on the Drive
College Park, along Edgewater Drive
The College Park Main Street District invites families and friends to Holiday on the Drive featuring Santa Claus, snow slide, live carolers, food trucks, carriage rides, arts and crafts, live music and more.
Friday, December 6, 2024 - Saturday, December 21, 2024
5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - Holiday Train Schedule
North East Lawn of Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street
The train will be running on the Northeast Lawn at Lake Eola Park on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings beginning December 6 - 22 at 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Snowfall at The Lake Eola House
Eola House, Near intersection of 512 East Washington Street and North Eola Drive
Experience snowfall in downtown Orlando this holiday season! Snow will fall on Washington St. by the Lake Eola House (located near the intersection of E. Washington St. and N. Eola Dr.).
Snow will fall for 15 minutes on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings beginning Friday, December 6 – Saturday, December 21 at 6:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 8:15 p.m., 9:15 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 2024
City of Orlando Annual Tree Lighting Celebration
5 p.m. - Festivities Begin
8 p.m. - Tree Lighting Ceremony
**7:45 - 8 p.m. - Mayor Dyer media availability on the south side of the band shell**
Lake Eola Park, Washington Plaza, 195 North Rosalind Avenue
Kickoff the holiday season at the City of Orlando's annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Lake Eola Park. The highlight of the event is the lighting of the 64-foot Christmas tree featuring 88,000 animated lights. The event will include holiday performances at the Walt Disney Amphitheater, food trucks and a holiday market on International Plaza at Lake Eola Park.
Friday, December 6, 2024 - Sunday, December 22, 2024
5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. - Merry Market
East Side of Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street
Support local this season when shopping the Merry Market. Here, you'll shop from local vendors with products ranging from soaps, candles, jewelry, and more! You will find the market on the east side of Lake Eola Park beginning Friday, December 6 and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday following. The final day for the market is Sunday, December 22. The market will be open from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
Friday, December 6, 2024 - Monday, January 6, 2025
Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show
Lake Eola Park, Washington Plaza, 195 North Rosalind Avenue
Beginning Friday, December 6, the Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree comes alive with synchronized light and music. The show will take place at the following times: 5:45 pm, 6:45 pm, 7:45 pm, 8:45 pm, and 9:45 pm. The Christmas Tree is located by East Washington Street and North Rosalind Avenue.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
7 p.m. - Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street
Pack your blankets, chairs and snacks for the whole family to enjoy a free showing of the holiday movie “The Santa Clause” on the East Lawn. Showtime is at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 7, 2024 - Sunday, December 22, 2024
5:30 - 9:00 p.m. - Meet Santa at the Eola House
Eola House, 512 East Washington Street
Meet Santa at the Eola House every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. This is a free experience!
Sunday, December 8, 2024
2 p.m. - Light Up SoDo
Kimco’s SoDo Shopping Center, 35 West Crystal Lake Street
The SoDo Main Street District’s annual family and pet-friendly holiday event will feature several activities including an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus, local vendors, delicious treats, musicians, surprise performers, children’s activities, face painting and more.
Sunday, December 8, 2024
2 p.m. - Krampusfest
The Plaza Live, 425 North Bumby Avenue
The Milk District’s annual Krampusfest returns bringing the alpine spirit to Orlando. Until dark, families can enjoy live music, professional photography opportunities, local food, drink and retail vendors, the Krampuslauf parade and a costume contest. Once the sun sets, this event takes a spookier turn and while still family-friendly, is encouraged to be enjoyed by those 13 or older.
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. - Winterfest at Lake Eola
Lake Eola Ampitheater, 512 East Washington Street
What better way to get into the holiday spirit than spending the evening enjoying holiday songs? The City of Orlando Families, Parks and Recreation Department invite you to a night of singing, dancing and fun at Winter Fest Ho, Ho, Ho - down Showcase. The students of the After School program at our neighborhood community centers have worked hard to put together performances to spread holiday cheer. Come dressed in your favorite Western wear and get ready for a night of talent and holiday cheer!
Friday, December 13, 2024
7 p.m. - Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street
Pack your blankets, chairs and snacks for the whole family to enjoy a free showing of the holiday movie “Elf” on the East Lawn. Showtime is at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 14, 2024
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Winter Market with Santa at Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue
We’re rolling out the red carpet for a very special guest—Santa Claus himself! Bring your cameras and capture the magic. Sip on some delicious drinks and grab a bite to eat at Foxtail Marketplace & Cafe before you embark on a merry stroll through our festive Gardens.
The market will offer an array of plants, home goods, and gifts that are sure to make your spirits bright. Don’t forget to stop by the Historic Leu House, where Carolers will be spreading festive joy from 10 am to 2 pm. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. So come on down, gather your loved ones, and make this holiday season one to remember at Leu Gardens—where the magic of the holidays bloom!
Saturday, December 14, 2024 - Sunday, December 15, 2024
11 a.m. - 10 p.m. - Christkindlmarkt (German Christmas Market)
Luminary Green Park, 437 North Terry Avenue
Experience the magic of a traditional German Christmas market at Luminary Green Park on December 14 and 15. From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., immerse yourself in festive cheer with delicious treats, unique gifts and holiday entertainment.
Saturday, December 14, 2024
12 p.m. - Sleigh the Ford
Curry Ford West, 2901 Curry Ford Road
Curry Ford West hosts their new Sleigh the Ford holiday event, with three family and pet-friendly holiday themed photo locations throughout the district, along with Santa making his way through the district to visit and take pictures with residents and businesses.
7 p.m. - Violetric Holiday Show
Lake Eola Ampitheater at Lake Eola Park, 195 North Rosalin Avenue
Performing together live on stage, renowned “Vinylinist” and Founder of Violectric, Michelle Jones, and the talented musicians of the Central Florida strings super-group, announce the exciting milestone 10th Annual Violectric Holiday Show rocking into the Lake Eola Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park on Saturday, December 14, 2024 starting at 7pm. Free and open to the public, the 90-minute live concert presented by the City of Orlando’s Department of Families, Parks and Recreation will feature traditional holiday songs like O Christmas Tree, The First Noel and Hanukkah, O Hanukkah mashed up with classic rock tunes and modern hits like Born to Run, Heroes and Sweet Dreams, delivering a fun-filled, energetic and highly unique holiday show unlike anything seen and heard before and simulcast around all of Lake Eola.
Violectric has also teamed back up with Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando for the pet-friendly show. Attendees are encouraged to bring their pets and a cash donation for Pet Alliance. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also return for meet-and-greets and family and pet photos, plus more surprises.
Saturday, December 14, 2024
7:30 p.m. - Approximately 12 Pubs of Christmas Pub Crawl
Wally’s, 1001 North Mills Avenue or Ten10 Brewing, 1010 Virginia Drive
Annually organized by the Mills 50 Main Street District, residents can get in the “spirit” of the season at the Approximately 12 Pubs of Christmas Pub Crawl. Buy a wristband at Wally’s or Ten10 Brewing, then enjoy food and drink specials at several bars and restaurants throughout the district.
Sunday, December 15, 2024
12 p.m. - Holiday at the District
CareMax Orlando, 5564 East Grant Street
Gateway Orlando and District 2 City Commissioner Tony Ortiz host the family-friendly Holiday at the District, featuring live performances, special surprise guests, food trucks, entertainment for children, arts and crafts, local vendors and more.
5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Sensory Night
Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street
On Sunday, December 15, 2024, immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays in a sensory-friendly environment. We've curated an evening of joy and comfort for everyone, featuring:
- No/Low Music: Enjoy the festive atmosphere without stimulating sounds.
- Quiet Place: A serene space with water, snacks, and calming vibes.
- Fidget Spinners: Engage and relax with tactile sensory tools.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Find tranquility amidst the holiday cheer.
- Santa Line System: A thoughtful approach to meet Santa with ease.
- Train Ride Line System: Hop aboard the holiday train stress-free!
Come and celebrate the magic of the season with us in a warm and inclusive setting.
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
6 p.m. - Arts After Dark Market
Hyatt House Orlando Airport, 5472 Gateway Village Circle
Gateway District hosts their winter edition of their Arts After Dark Market, featuring local arts and crafts, artisans and vendors, feed and drink and live music themed for the holidays.
Friday, December 20, 2024
7 p.m. - Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park
East Lawn at Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street
Pack your blankets, chairs and snacks for the whole family to enjoy a free showing of the holiday movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” on the East Lawn. Showtime is at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 21, 2024
6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. - Holiday Drone Show
Lake Eola Park, 195 North Rosalind Avenue
This show will feature a dazzling display of synchronized drones flying in formation to create beautiful holiday-themed designs in the night sky. Attendees will be able to sit back and watch the 15-minute light show from the comfort of their own blankets and lawn chairs. The show will be held on Saturday, December 21, with performances at 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM (both featuring the same program).
To make your experience seamless, plan your route in advance to ensure you're there on time to catch the show!
Parking Made Easy: Knowing where to park is easy! Check out nearby parking options here to make your arrival stress-free.
Thursday, December 12, 2024 - Sunday, December 29, 2024
Cirque Mechanics Winter Wonder Shoppe
Seneff Arts Plaza, 419 South Orange Avenue
Under the brightly-colored Big Top, a series of fantastical transactions unfolds with the world-renowned aerial and acrobatic artists of Cirque Mechanics. Here, a quirky shopkeeper is on a mission to sell his prized shiny blue bicycle to the perfect customer and make someone's holiday wish come true.
Customers fly on a Penny Farthing and juggle with diabolos. Contortionists perform on a turntable powered by unicyclists. An aerialist is lifted by an acrobat inside a giant wheel, and trampoline wall artists defy the laws of physics by virtually flying and walking on air!
For more information and to purchase tickets visit drphillipscenter.org/events/tickets/2024/winter-wonder-shoppe/.
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