Melissa Donovan
The holiday season is officially here, and Orange County, Florida, is brimming with festive events and dazzling light displays to make this season truly unforgettable. From twinkling holiday lights to lively parades and festive markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out these top events happening from November through December in Orange County!
Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
When: Nov. 29 – Jan. 5
Where: Leu Gardens, Orlando
What: This holiday season, immerse yourself in a world of holiday wonder at Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens. A million twinkling lights will transform the gardens into a breathtaking winter experience, filled with magical displays and enchanting strolls. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holidays in Orlando! For more details and tickets, click here.
College Park Holiday on the Drive
When: Dec. 5, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Edgewater Drive, College Park
What: Head to College Park for the Holiday on the Drive event, a beloved community tradition. This festive celebration features something for everyone – from a special artisan vendor village to activities for the kids. Santa will be making an appearance, and the air will be filled with music, entertainment, and holiday cheer. Don’t miss out on this enchanting event! For more details, click here.
Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Holiday Festival
When: Dec. 6-22
Where: Lake Nona Town Center
What: The Lake Nona Town Center will be transformed into Peppermint Square this holiday season, bringing a winter wonderland filled with celebrations and events. Mark your calendars for this festive celebration, featuring everything from shopping to holiday-themed activities for the whole family. For the full event lineup, click here.
Orlando 2024 Tree Lighting Celebration
When: Dec. 6, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Lake Eola Park, Orlando
What: Join Mayor Buddy Dyer and the residents of Orlando at the Orlando Tree Lighting Celebration at Lake Eola Park. The event kicks off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, and the opening of the Merry Market, which will be open every weekend through Dec. 22. Don’t miss the annual celebration! For more information, click here.
Apopka Tree Lighting
When: Dec. 6, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Kit Land Nelson Park, Apopka
What: Celebrate the season with the Apopka Tree Lighting ceremony, where the community gathers to enjoy festive lights, holiday displays, and special tree lighting. It’s an evening filled with joy and holiday spirit. For details, click here.
Light Up Winter Garden
When: Dec. 6, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Winter Garden City Hall
What: Light Up Winter Garden marks the official start of the season in this charming downtown area. The event features the exciting flipping of the switch to illuminate the city’s holiday lights, followed by a night filled with entertainment, activities, and holiday cheer. For more information, click here.
Winter Garden Christmas Parade
When: Dec. 7, 10 a.m.
Where: South Dillar Street and West Plant Street, Winter Garden
What: The Winter Garden Christmas Parade is a long-standing local tradition that’s perfect for the entire family. This lively parade brings festive floats, marching bands, and community groups together, with the big finale featuring a visit from Santa Claus himself! For more details, click here.
Winter Garden Holiday Night Market
When: Dec. 7, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Downtown Pavilion, Winter Garden
What: This new event for 2024 brings a unique festive twist to the Winter Garden Holiday Night Market. Wander through an open-air market filled with vendor booths offering holiday goods, festive treats, and perfect gifts for everyone on your list. For more details, click here.
Winter Park Christmas Parade
When: Dec. 7, 9 a.m.
Where: Park Avenue, Winter Park
What: The Winter Park Christmas Parade is one of the area’s most anticipated holiday traditions. With more than 80 participants, including marching bands, local organizations, and of course, Santa Claus, this parade is a must-see. For more details, click here.
Maitland Season of Light
When: Dec. 7, 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Lake Lily Park, Maitland
What: Celebrate the season at the Maitland Season of Light event, where you’ll find festive games, activities, live music, a tree lighting ceremony, and a spectacular fireworks display. Don’t forget to visit Santa and enjoy this festive community gathering. For more information, click here.
Experience the Magic of the Holidays in Orange County
Orange County offers an abundance of festive activities this holiday season, making it the perfect destination for family-friendly celebrations, light displays, and winter festivities. Whether you’re in Orlando, Winter Garden, Maitland, or Lake Nona, there’s no shortage of events to fill your holiday season with joy and holiday cheer. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences—mark your calendar and join in the celebrations!
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