Holiday Festivities in Orlando, The City Beautiful

‘Tis the season of celebration and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. I’m so excited to enjoy the fun holiday festivities in Orlando with my loved ones. I’ll be sharing a few unique events happening in The City Beautiful, so if you’re local to Orlando, you can check them out, too.

Dazzling Nights: An Immersive Holiday Light Experience

People going through a tunnel of lights at Dazzling Nights in Leu Gardens.

For a unique experience this holiday season, Dazzling Nights is a must-see. This awe-inspring event was put together by the same creators of Immerse, Orlando’s biggest interactive art event. This holiday event debuted in Orlando last year and was a huge success. Now it’s back and completely redesigned. 

A young man with a Santa hat and string light necklace with colorful lighting flooding around him.

In this immersive excursion, you’ll be able to experience Leu Gardens in a whole new way. As you walk through the beautiful tree-lined paths, you’ll journey through almost a mile of spectacular light displays. 

Some highlights you’ll be able to experience this year are an area with 185 hanging Moroccan Lanterns and a forest of dancing light. The Rose Garden also comes to life with beautiful balls of light. This holiday light extravaganza begins tonight and goes on until January 9, 2022.

Festival of the Trees 2021 at Orlando Museum of Art

Beautifully decorated Christmas trees in the Orlando Museum of Art.

The Orlando Museum of Art is currently hosting its 35th annual Festival of Trees. During this yearly event, local organizations and talented creators are invited to design their very own Christmas tree. Over 40 trees are put on display. Each tree has a different theme. 

I love attending this event. In previous years, my company MHM Professional Staging has participated in creating our own tree. In 2019, we decorated an equestrian-themed tree called “The White Stallion.” It was so much fun.

Three beautifully decorated Christmas trees at the Orlando Museum of Art.

This event started on November 13th and ends this weekend on November 21st. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for children. Proceeds from the Festival of Trees benefit the Orlando Museum of Art.

Christmas My Way: A Sinatra Holiday Bash

If you’re a Sinatra fan, you can’t miss this musical happening at the Winter Park Playhouse! Watch 40 of Frank Sinatra’s popular hits from “Fly Me to The Moon”, to “Silver Bells” performed Rat Pack style. This event started on Nov.12 and will continue until Dec. 18.

Orlando Ballet: The Nutcracker at Dr. Phillip’s Center

Orlando Ballet ballerinas mid leap.

Starting on Dec 3, the Orlando Ballet will be performing The Nutcracker at the Dr. Philip’s Center. This classic fairy tale ballet was first performed in Christmas 1892 and is still just as popular today. It’s always such a treat to watch the Orlando Ballet live.

The Winter Park Christmas Parade

The Winter Park Christmas Parade is one of Central Florida’s oldest holiday parades since it started over 60 years ago. This year the 69th annual parade will happen on Dec 4th from 9am-10:30 AM. This event is free to attend. The parade begins at Park Ave and Canton Ave and travels south along Park Ave. It then turns right onto New England Ave and ends at Hannibal Square.

Lake Nona’s Winter Wonderland: Oh, What Fun!

A lit up Christmas tree with a sign that reads "Oh, What Fun, A Holiday Festival."

Lake Nona is a cool spot filled with arts and culture. From Nov. 21- Jan 2, 2022, Lake Nona is hosting an event called “Oh, What Fun!” The Lake Nona Town Center and Boxi Park will be turned into a winter wonderland. The delightful decorations and festive treats will be sure to lift your spirits. There will be nightly faux snowfalls and live entertainment. There will also be menorah lightings each night of Hanukkah to celebrate the festival of lights.

A festive live performance at Lake Nona right next to The Beacon.

These are just a select few holiday festivities in Orlando you can enjoy. Whether or not you make it out to these fun holiday festivities, I hope you and your family are able to create wonderful memories this season. It’s less about what you do and more about who you’re with. Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Warmly,
Megan

P.S. Still preparing for Thanksgiving and need ideas for your tablescape? Check out this post.