Your Last-Minute Guide to December Events in Orlando and Kissimmee
December 5th. 2025
Family friendly fun, date-night ideas, and where to stay with a 20% discount
If you’ve been thinking about a quick December getaway to Orlando or Kissimmee, this is your moment. December here is holiday mode turned all the way up. Lights everywhere, music floating out of every corner, warm nights, and more events than you can fit into one trip. Whether you’re a young family trying to make some memories or a couple sneaking in a seasonal weekend escape, there is plenty happening across Central Florida.
Below is your no-stress guide to what’s going on, from Disney and Universal to local spots that deserve some love too.
Big Holiday Events at Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Magic Kingdom, select nights Nov 7 to Dec 21, 2025
Hours: 7 PM to 12 AM (you can usually enter at 4 PM with your event ticket)
This is Disney Christmas in its purest form. Snow on Main Street, parades, characters in holiday outfits, fireworks, cookies, cocoa, and the kind of atmosphere that makes adults suddenly believe in magic again. Many nights sell out fast, so if you are hoping for a spontaneous trip, grab any available date you can.
Holidays at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando Resort, Nov 21, 2025 to Jan 4, 2026
Universal does holidays with big energy. Parades, shows, festive characters, and plenty of places to grab seasonal treats. It’s great for kids who want movement and teens who pretend they’re above all this but absolutely are not. A fun choice for couples too if you like somewhere lively.
Christmas at Gaylord Palms
Nov 14, 2025 to Jan 7, 2026
This one flies under the radar and deserves way more love. It’s indoors, which is great for little ones who get overwhelmed by crowds. Expect giant ice sculptures, themed walk-throughs, lights, music, performers, and plenty of “wow” moments. A perfect relaxing night out if you want something festive without committing to a full theme park day.
SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration
Select dates in December
SeaWorld keeps it simple and charming. Holiday shows, lights, music, and festive touches all around the park, and much of it is included with regular admission. It’s a good middle-ground option if you want the holiday spirit without the big extra ticket cost.
Free and Affordable Local Holiday Events
Orlando and Kissimmee don’t rely on the theme parks to pull off the holidays. Local spots light up beautifully and make for easy weeknight outings or calm date nights.
Lake Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show
Tree lighting kicks off December 5, 2025
If you want holiday magic without spending a dime, downtown Orlando does it right. Lake Eola glows with a giant Christmas tree that puts on a synchronized lights and music show every night. Kids love it. Couples love it. Dogs in sweaters love it. It’s an easy win.
Oh, What Fun! at Lake Nona
December 5 to December 21, 2025
Lake Nona turns into a winter village with Santa visits, storytellers, musicians, pop-up fun, and holiday décor everywhere. Great for families with little ones and mellow enough for a simple date night.
More Local Favorites
Winter Garden, Kissimmee, Celebration, and other small towns around Orlando run markets, concerts, and light displays throughout December. These are great for nights when you want to do something festive but not deal with theme park crowds.
Best Picks for Families and Couples
If you’re traveling with kids
- Disney is the obvious winner if you want full holiday immersion.
- SeaWorld is perfect if you want something magical without a big ticket price.
- Lake Eola and Lake Nona make for great low-pressure nights where kids can run around and enjoy lights without lines.
If you’re a couple
- Gaylord Palms is surprisingly romantic and very stress-free.
- Universal has a fun, high-energy holiday atmosphere.
- Local markets, lights, and holiday strolls make for the kind of date that feels simple but memorable.
Make Your Trip Easy and Stay With Us
If you’re driving in from 100 miles out or planning a last-minute December retreat, our condo makes your holiday trip simple. It’s comfortable, close to everything, and gives you space to unwind after the parks or local events.
Use code winter25 for 20 percent off your stay.
Pack light, show up, and let the season take care of the rest.
💌 About the Author
Andrea Jastemski
Owner of Boltus Rentals, educator with over 15 years of experience in K–12 education, wife, mother of two, and proud Florida realtor. Boltus Rentals is a true labor of love—and this blog is a heartfelt gift from our family to yours. Here’s to making unforgettable family memories. 💛
