My goodness, there is fa la la la la, la la la lots to do in Orlando during the holidays! 2021 is back with a bang when it comes to holiday celebrations across the theme parks!
Let’s start with SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, taking place on select nights from November 13th through January 2nd. See the park transform into a “winter wonderland sparkling with holiday cheer, excitement, and over 3 million beautiful lights.” There is entertainment - like the Winter Wonderland on Ice - where “Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice, jewels and lights as skaters dazzle and delight in a show-stopping, ice skating extravaganza.” Guests will also have the chance to meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or visit with Santa himself in the Wild Arctic.
Next, let’s skip down Candy Cane Lane and head over to Universal Orlando Resort where they have some fun in store for the holidays, also happening from November 13th through January 2nd. While not all events have even been announced yet, Universal is busy planning for some amazing Holiday offerings including shows and decorations in both lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. “Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Nobody wraps up the Holidays into a mind-blowing, mischief-making, action-packed adventure like Universal Orlando Resort.”
Finally, Walt Disney World is gearing up to celebrate the spirit of the season beginning November 12th. Festivities across the resort include events at all four parks that coincide with their 50th Anniversary Celebration - The World’s Most Magical Celebration!
At the Magic Kingdom you can snack on some limited-time treats, explore holly, jolly seasonal decor while strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., and watch in awe as “Cinderella Castle is transformed with cheerful projections.” For some extra magical fun, Disney World is bringing back a revamped holiday party with the Disney Very Merriest After Hours - a four hour event which includes “character sightings, themed fireworks, tasty treats, and more!”
You can also enjoy “holiday traditions, decor and cuisine from around the world—all in one place” at the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. Experience seasonal sights, inspirational music, and a delectable Holiday Cookie Stroll. Additionally, Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Candlelight Processional is back for 2021 where you can “hear the stirring story of Christmas as told by a celebrity narrator.”
Hollywood Studios will offer a Sunset Seasons Greetings where you can view a “captivating projection show on the Hollywood Tower Hotel” or have a merry mealtime at Minnie's Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine.” There will also be a Santa Claus Motorcade “where old St. Nick will travel up Hollywood Boulevard in his candy-apple red convertible, packed with a sack of presents!”
You can experience “the magic of nature with a holiday twist” at Animal Kingdom. The park will feature a variety of Festive Flotilla water parades down Discover River including different characters such as Santa Claus, Donald and friends, Chip & Dale, or the Discovery Island Drummers.
One last place to explore before making a final holiday plan - Disney Springs. Stop for quick shopping for all of your holiday gift-giving needs, holiday-themed activities, or comforting flavors of the season! Disney Springs boasts a Christmas Tree Stroll where you can see “a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees spread throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs.” You can also experience snow flurries on the West Side in the evenings “adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping.”
Whatever events tickle your fancy, here’s wishing you and yours a very happy holiday season!