25 Christmas Things to Do in Orlando with Kids in 2026

Planning a family Christmas in Orlando? The holiday season brings festive theme park celebrations, sparkling Christmas lights, seasonal shows, Santa meet-and-greets and family-friendly activities throughout Central Florida. From immersive holiday experiences to free community celebrations, there are plenty of ways to make Christmas 2026 memorable.

One unique way to celebrate is at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, where families can join Santa's Scout Elves for The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf®, a festive underwater adventure included with general admission from November 20, 2026, through January 3, 2027.

Whether you're planning a full Orlando Christmas vacation or looking for a fun activity close to home, this list features 25 Christmas events and holiday activities to consider with kids.

1. Join The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Make your Orlando Christmas outing an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, located at ICON Park on International Drive.

From November 20, 2026, through January 3, 2027, families can join The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf® and help Santa's Scout Elves recover missing decorations from the aquarium's Undersea Christmas Tree.

The Christmas Sea Star that belongs at the top of the tree has gone missing, and the elves need help completing their mission. Children can collect an activity sheet and ornament, explore the aquarium and complete interactive challenges at six locations throughout the experience.

Each completed challenge helps the Scout Elves recover a missing decoration. Participants collect pieces of a Christmas Sea Star along the way, assembling a festive keepsake as they progress through the search.

The seasonal experience combines holiday fun with an opportunity to explore the aquarium's marine life, including its sharks, sea turtles, stingrays and colorful underwater habitats.

Why families will love it: It adds an interactive Christmas activity to an aquarium visit, giving children a holiday mission to complete while discovering marine life.

Event dates: November 20, 2026–January 3, 2027
Admission: Included with general admission
Location: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium at ICON Park, International Drive

Plan your visit to The Elf on the Shelf at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.

2. Experience Christmas at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

Families who love building, colorful displays and theme park adventures can celebrate the holidays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven.

Christmas Bricktacular brings seasonal festivities to the resort on select dates. Families can enjoy holiday-themed entertainment, festive LEGO® displays and opportunities to meet LEGO® Santa during the celebration.

Located near Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort can be a fun addition to a family vacation, especially for households traveling with children who enjoy LEGO® building and rides.

Best for: Families who want a theme park experience with LEGO®-themed Christmas fun.

Explore Christmas Bricktacular at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort.

3. Discover Christmas at Gaylord Palms

Located in Kissimmee, Christmas at Gaylord Palms transforms the resort into a holiday destination with seasonal entertainment, festive decorations and family activities.

The 2026 celebration runs from November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Planned highlights include holiday attractions and experiences inspired by The Polar Express™, offering families another way to celebrate near Orlando.

Check the resort's event information for the current lineup, ticket options and activity availability before visiting.

Best for: Families looking for an immersive holiday outing with multiple activities in one location.

4. See the Holiday Lights at Dazzling Nights

For an evening surrounded by Christmas lights, head to Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens.

This seasonal event transforms the gardens into illuminated displays with glowing pathways, immersive environments, festive entertainment and interactive experiences.

The 2026 season is scheduled for select dates from November 20, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Highlights include a towering snowman, choreographed Christmas trees and illuminated garden installations.

Best for: Families who enjoy outdoor light displays and evening holiday outings.

5. Visit Walt Disney World® Resort During Christmas

Walt Disney World® Resort celebrates the holidays with seasonal decorations, festive entertainment and special experiences throughout its theme parks.

Families can explore holiday displays, enjoy seasonal treats and experience attractions dressed for the occasion. Offerings vary by park and date, so check the resort's calendar when planning your visit.

For an additional holiday experience, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party takes place at Magic Kingdom® Park on select nights during the season and requires separate admission.

Best for: Families planning a major theme park day around Christmas.

6. Celebrate Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort adds holiday entertainment and seasonal decorations to its theme parks during the Christmas season.

Depending on the park and date, families may find festive shows, themed entertainment and holiday character appearances. Visitors can check the current schedule for details about seasonal offerings and operating hours.

Best for: Families who want to combine their favorite rides with seasonal entertainment.

7. Enjoy SeaWorld® Orlando's Christmas Celebration

SeaWorld® Orlando offers a seasonal celebration featuring holiday decorations, entertainment and festive experiences.

Families can explore the park while enjoying its seasonal atmosphere and checking the schedule for shows and character appearances. Event offerings and dates may vary throughout the season.

Best for: Families who want to combine marine-animal attractions with Christmas entertainment.

8. Take a Holiday Flight on the Orlando Eye

See Orlando from a new perspective aboard the Orlando Eye at ICON Park on International Drive.

The 400-foot observation wheel offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its enclosed, air-conditioned capsules. It is an option for families who want to enjoy Orlando's skyline during a holiday vacation.

Pair an Orlando Eye flight with a visit to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium or Madame Tussauds Orlando to make a day of exploring ICON Park.

Best for: Families looking for sightseeing and attractions along International Drive.

Explore the Orlando Eye.

9. Meet Celebrity Lookalikes at Madame Tussauds Orlando

Add a different kind of family outing to your holiday itinerary at Madame Tussauds Orlando.

Located at ICON Park, this wax attraction features lifelike figures of celebrities and well-known personalities. Families can pose for photos, explore themed areas and create memorable vacation pictures.

Its indoor setting also makes it an option to consider when planning activities between outdoor holiday events.

Best for: Families who enjoy celebrity culture, interactive photo opportunities and indoor attractions.

Explore Madame Tussauds Orlando.

10. Explore the Christmas Tree Stroll at Disney Springs®

Disney Springs® offers shopping, dining and seasonal entertainment during the holidays.

The Christmas Tree Stroll has featured themed Christmas trees displayed throughout the district, giving visitors a festive way to explore the area. Check the current 2026 entertainment information to confirm this season's offerings.

Families can combine a walk through the shopping district with a meal, dessert or holiday shopping.

Best for: Families looking for a flexible outing with shopping and dining.

11. See the Christmas Lights at Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is a popular place for an outdoor stroll, with lake views, walking paths and the city's recognizable fountain.

During the holiday season, check local announcements for scheduled tree-lighting events and seasonal displays. The park is also an option for families who want to enjoy downtown Orlando without planning an entire theme park day.

Check event details before traveling, as special holiday programming can vary by year.

Best for: Families looking for a downtown outing and outdoor scenery.

12. Experience Now Snowing in Celebration

Celebration, south of Orlando, hosts the annual Now Snowing holiday celebration.

The event has featured seasonal decorations, simulated snowfall, carolers and additional holiday activities. Depending on the year and schedule, families may also find ice skating, carriage rides and opportunities to see Santa.

The 2026 event is scheduled to run from November 28 through December 31.

Best for: Families who want a traditional holiday-town atmosphere in Florida.

13. Visit the Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival at Lake Nona

Lake Nona Town Center hosts the Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival, a seasonal community celebration with festive entertainment and family activities.

The 2026 festival is scheduled for select dates from December 4 through December 20. Planned offerings include holiday lights, a market, a large Christmas tree, seasonal entertainment and opportunities to visit Santa.

Check the festival calendar for individual activities and dates before planning your visit.

Best for: Families looking for a neighborhood holiday festival with activities for children.

14. Discover Tis the Season in Winter Garden

Historic downtown Winter Garden offers a charming setting for a seasonal stroll.

The Tis the Season celebration is scheduled from December 4, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Holiday programming can include festive decorations, lights, live entertainment, carolers and special community events on select dates.

Explore the downtown area, browse local shops and check the calendar for parades and other seasonal activities.

Best for: Families who enjoy small-town holiday celebrations and walking through decorated downtown areas.

15. Visit Wekiva Island's Winter Wonderland

Wekiva Island offers a seasonal Winter Wonderland experience with holiday decorations and activities on select dates.

The celebration has featured a large Christmas tree, sparkling lights, simulated snowfall, outdoor movies and opportunities to meet Santa. Additional offerings may vary by date.

Check the current schedule for 2026 activities, ticket requirements and any reservations needed.

Best for: Families looking for an outdoor holiday experience outside the main theme park districts.

16. Explore the Holidays at Promenade at Sunset Walk

Promenade at Sunset Walk near Kissimmee hosts the Holiday Nights Celebration.

The 2026 season is scheduled for select dates from November 19 through December 25. Festivities can include holiday lights, seasonal entertainment, tree-lighting activities and simulated snowfall.

Visitors can check the schedule for additional events, markets and family activities throughout the season.

Best for: Families staying near Kissimmee who want a holiday outing with dining and entertainment options nearby.

17. See the Asian Lantern Festival at Central Florida Zoo

For a different kind of illuminated evening experience, consider the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild at Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford.

The seasonal event features illuminated lantern displays inspired by wildlife and nature. The 2026–2027 season is scheduled for select dates from November 13, 2026, through January 17, 2027.

Check the zoo's event calendar for operating dates, admission details and visitor information.

Best for: Families who enjoy colorful nighttime displays and animal-inspired art.

18. Discover Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art

Festival of Trees brings decorated Christmas trees and seasonal displays to the Orlando Museum of Art.

The event is scheduled for November 14–22, 2026. Families can explore themed decorations and browse the holiday boutique, while selected activities and special programs may require separate tickets.

Because the event takes place before Thanksgiving, it can be an option for families beginning their Christmas activities early.

Best for: Families who enjoy festive decorations, creative displays and seasonal shopping.

19. Enjoy Colorful Christmas at Crayola Experience

Crayola Experience at The Florida Mall offers hands-on creative activities for children.

Its Colorful Christmas celebration is scheduled for November 21, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Families can check the attraction's seasonal schedule for holiday-themed crafts, activities and entertainment.

This can be a useful addition to a shopping day or a rainy-day itinerary.

Best for: Families with younger children who enjoy arts, crafts and interactive activities.

20. Visit Gatorland's Holiday Ho, Ho, Ho-Down

Gatorland puts a Florida spin on Christmas with its Holiday Ho, Ho, Ho-Down.

The 2026 event is scheduled for select dates from December 5–20. Seasonal offerings can include festive decorations, entertainment and holiday character appearances alongside the park's resident alligators and other animals.

Check the official event schedule for dates, admission and activities.

Best for: Families who want to combine Florida wildlife with a holiday outing.

21. See a Christmas Show or Holiday Performance

Orlando's performing arts venues offer another way to celebrate the season.

Look for holiday productions, Christmas concerts, family-friendly theatrical performances and seasonal ballet shows. The Nutcracker and adaptations of classic Christmas stories are among the types of productions that may appear on local calendars.

Check the schedules at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and other Central Florida venues for 2026 dates, age recommendations and ticket availability.

Best for: Families looking for an indoor evening activity or a special holiday performance.

22. Visit Santa at ICON Park

Santa visits and seasonal photo experiences are a popular part of Orlando's Christmas calendar.

ICON Park has advertised holiday Santa experiences, including a Santa Workshop Experience associated with the Orlando Eye. Families should confirm the 2026 schedule, location, ticket prices and photo packages before visiting.

You can also plan a broader ICON Park outing by combining sightseeing aboard the Orlando Eye with a visit to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium or Madame Tussauds Orlando.

Best for: Families who want to combine holiday photos with other International Drive attractions.

23. Take Christmas Photos at The Florida Mall or The Mall at Millenia

Shopping centers around Orlando often offer seasonal Santa photo opportunities.

The Florida Mall and The Mall at Millenia are two places to check for holiday photo experiences, reservations and special sessions. Dates, prices and availability vary, so review the current information before making plans.

A mall visit can also be a convenient option when shopping for gifts or looking for an indoor activity.

Best for: Families planning holiday shopping or a Santa photo session.

24. Visit a Christmas Tree Farm or Holiday Tree Lot

Choosing a Christmas tree can become a family tradition of its own.

The Orlando area has offered a variety of tree lots, nurseries and farms where visitors can shop for fresh-cut trees, wreaths and seasonal decorations.

Places to investigate include:

• Josario's Christmas Trees: A local tree retailer with Orlando-area locations.

• Ciro & Sons Christmas Trees: A family-owned tree business in the Orlando area.

• Trees at College Park: A neighborhood Christmas tree lot.

• Santa's Christmas Tree Forest: A farm in Eustis that has offered tree-cutting and family activities.

• Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter: An Oviedo nursery that sells seasonal trees and holiday plants.

• Marge's Specialties: An Orlando holiday retailer known for seasonal decorations and Christmas displays.

Inventory, operating hours, prices and farm activities can change from season to season. Contact each business or check its current website before making a special trip.

Best for: Families who enjoy decorating together and creating their own Christmas traditions.

25. Explore Orlando's Neighborhood Holiday Events

Some of the most memorable Christmas outings happen outside the major theme parks.

Explore local event calendars for neighborhood celebrations, holiday markets, tree lightings, parades and seasonal entertainment. These events can offer a different perspective on how Central Florida communities celebrate the season.

Consider checking the calendars for:

• Winter Park: Look for Holidays on Park, seasonal lights and community celebrations.

• Downtown Orlando: Check for holiday festivals, tree-lighting events and seasonal entertainment.

• Ivanhoe Village: Look for Jingle Eve, a community event with local businesses and holiday activities.

• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts: Check for the Frontyard Holiday Festival, scheduled for November 27–December 31, 2026.

• Lake Nona: Explore the Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival and its seasonal programming.

Some activities are free, while others require admission or reservations. Always confirm the latest schedule and details before setting out.

Plan Your Orlando Christmas Activities

With so many Christmas events and holiday attractions around Central Florida, planning ahead can help you make the most of your family's time.

Here are a few tips for organizing your holiday itinerary:

Choose activities by location. Group attractions around International Drive, the theme park districts, Kissimmee or downtown Orlando to reduce travel between stops.

Mix indoor and outdoor activities. An aquarium visit, creative attraction or indoor show can complement an evening spent exploring Christmas lights.

Check dates before visiting. Some holiday events operate daily, while others take place on select dates or require advance reservations.

Plan for admission and parking. Review each attraction's ticket options, parking arrangements and any additional charges for special experiences.

Allow time to explore. Avoid overloading your itinerary. Leaving time between activities can make family outings more enjoyable.

Add an Underwater Christmas Adventure to Your Orlando Itinerary

Looking for a family-friendly Christmas activity on International Drive? Visit SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium for The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf®.

From November 20, 2026, through January 3, 2027, families can help Santa's Scout Elves recover the missing decorations from the Undersea Christmas Tree while exploring marine life and completing six interactive challenges.

The seasonal experience is included with general admission, giving families another reason to add the aquarium to their Orlando holiday plans.

Start planning your visit: Discover The Sea Star Search with The Elf on the Shelf at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.