The holiday season in Orlando, Florida is an opportunity for families and friends to connect in ways you'll never forget. Whether you're seeking to visit one or more of its famed amusement parks or to enjoy world-class shows, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
To help you better prepare for the holidays, we've compiled three unforgettable Orlando events that you should consider.
They include one of the most famous ballets in history, an off-the-hook party with some of the world's most exciting imaginary characters, and a walk down one of America's most famous streets.
#1 – Orlando's Nutcracker & Nutcracker Family Series
The Orlando Ballet has long been celebrated by people around the globe.
The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara, her beloved nutcracker, and the unforgettable events that forever changed her life. You and your family will be sure to walk away inspired after witnessing this timeless, extravagant beauty of a show.
Performances run from December 7-16 and tickets begin at $24. There isn't a bad seat in the house — no matter your budget, your entire family will be able to see everything that happens on stage.
December 14 and 21 features the Nutcracker Family Show at 11 a.m. It's a shorter one-hour version that gives young children the opportunity to experience an intro to ballet without getting too antsy for their next adventure.
Location: 3541 Maguire Blvd., Suite #111, Orlando, Florida 32803.
#2 – Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
It's almost a crime to visit Orlando and not consider attending Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. On select nights, beginning on November 8 and ending on December 22, you're invited to the party you'll never forget.
Take your loved ones to see the Magic Kingdom come to life — with holiday decorations, Cinderella's Castle shining bright with icy-glittering lights. You'll also be able to enjoy an amazing fireworks display, the holiday parade, and all of your favorite characters dressed to impress.
The party begins at 7 pm and ends at midnight. You cannot enter the party with regular Disney passes, as the event is separate. If you want to spend all day at the park and then enjoy the party, you will have to purchase both a full-day entry ticket and a ticket to the holiday party.
This can be a costly affair for a family, so if you're trying to save some cash, we recommend purchasing the party pass and entering the park at 7 pm. Pricing for the party is $92.80 for the kids (ages 3-9) and $97.75 for adults (ages 10+). You'll then have five hours to roam around the park and enjoy all the holiday fun.
Location: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida 32830.
# 3- Lights on Jeater Bend
If you're looking for something you'll never be able to see anywhere but Orlando, you'll definitely want to check out Lights on Jeater Bend.
From Thanksgiving to January 1st (6:30 pm to 9:30 pm), you can park your car nearby and be blown away by one of the most amazing holiday lighting displays in the country.
The neighborhood works together to create an unforgettable scene, where Christmas lights sparkle in unison, music rings through the air, and visitors from all over the world celebrate the joy of the holiday season.
You may even think you've seen Santa passing by a window with a bag of toys. You'll see what we mean when you visit!
Want to avoid crowds? Think about visiting during the week rather than on the weekend.
Location: 1033 Jeater Bend Drive, Celebration, Florida.
Once you've taken in the holiday events above, you may want more…
Thankfully, Orlando offers numerous other activities for your family. There is Sea World, Universal Studios, the Festival of Christmas trees, all of which provide tons of fun and holiday cheer.