A Holly Jolly Guide to Orlando’s Holiday Season

November 15, 2024

Orlando transforms into a holiday vacation destination during the festive season, offering a dazzling array of events, theme park celebrations, and family-friendly activities. Staying at Rentyl at Reunion Resort, located near Orlando’s top attractions, ensures a seamless and magical holiday experience. This guide provides travel tips for visiting Orlando during the holidays and highlights must-see events to make the most of your trip.

Top Holiday Events at Orlando's Theme Parks in 2024

Orlando’s theme park holiday events are world-famous for their over-the-top decorations, seasonal shows, and festive dining. Here’s what’s happening this holiday season at Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and more:

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom runs on select nights until December 20, featuring festive parades, fireworks, and meet-and-greets with your favorite Disney characters in holiday attire. Guests can enjoy complimentary seasonal treats like cookies and hot cocoa, along with exclusive holiday-themed merchandise and specialty food and beverage options. Don’t miss the iconic “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” or the spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show.” With lower wait times for popular attractions and unique entertainment like the “Club Tinsel” dance party, it’s a magical way to celebrate the season!

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays continues through December 30, showcasing seasonal traditions from around the globe, complete with food booths and the iconic Candlelight Processional. Guests can savor a wide variety of festive food and beverages at the Holiday Kitchens, enjoy live musical performances, and experience the Holiday Cookie Stroll, a fun way to sample and collect unique holiday cookies. Storytellers and performers bring the holiday traditions of different countries to life, while the nighttime spectacular, “Luminous The Symphony of Us” adds a dazzling touch to your evening. It’s an immersive celebration of the season’s spirit and global unity!

Disney Jollywood Nights

A brand-new addition to the Disney holiday lineup, Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios offers a unique, glamorous twist on the festive season. Running on select nights through December 20, this after-hours event transforms Hollywood Studios into a chic holiday celebration reminiscent of vintage Tinseltown. Enjoy high-energy musical performances, themed parties, and the opportunity to meet rare Disney characters dressed in their holiday best. Don’t miss the specialty food and drinks exclusive to Jollywood Nights, alongside enchanting photo opportunities with stunning holiday backdrops. It’s an unforgettable evening designed for those looking to combine the magic of Disney with the sparkle of sophisticated holiday cheer.

Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll

For a more leisurely yet equally enchanting experience, explore the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll — a holiday tradition that turns Disney Springs (opens in a new tab) into a winter wonderland. This festive activity invites you to wander through beautifully decorated Christmas trees themed to Disney movies and characters. Each tree is a unique work of art, from classic favorites like Mickey and Minnie to newer hits like Encanto and Frozen. Along the way, enjoy live entertainment, seasonal treats, and shopping at one-of-a-kind stores offering holiday exclusives. This free and family-friendly activity is perfect for an evening of festive fun and creates the ideal opportunity for memorable photos.

Universal Orlando Holiday Celebrations

Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, available through December 31, offers live performances, Who-ville characters, and themed treats. Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios Florida runs through December 31 and features spectacular floats, balloons, and live music.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration

SeaWorld Orlando lights up the season with its Christmas Celebration, running through January 7. Highlights include festive shows, Rudolph’s Christmas Town, and an incredible sea of holiday lights.

Including these stops on your itinerary guarantees an unforgettable holiday experience in Orlando.

Local Holiday Activities Near Rentyl at Reunion

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando’s local holiday events add to the charm of the season. Check out these Orlando holiday attractions near Rentyl at Reunion:

Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens runs through January 5 and features millions of twinkling lights in an enchanting garden setting.
Celebration Town’s Now Snowing Nightly Event offers nightly snowfall, horse-drawn carriage rides, and holiday photo opportunities through December 31.

These unique holiday experiences provide family-friendly fun just a short drive from Rentyl at Reunion.

Essential Holiday Travel Tips for Orlando Visitors

To ensure your holiday trip to Orlando is seamless and filled with joy, planning is key.

Book early to secure your spot at popular events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights, which tend to sell out quickly.
Stay close to the magic by choosing accommodations at Rentyl at Reunion, offering luxurious vacation homes, stylish condos, and elegant townhomes just minutes from Disney World, Universal, and other top attractions. With options to fit families and groups of all sizes, Rentyl at Reunion ensures you’re surrounded by comfort and convenience during your stay. Complimentary transportation is also available to select theme parks for resort guests.
Save time at the parks by using Lightning Lane and Express Passes, giving you more opportunities to enjoy Orlando’s world-class attractions.
Pack with Orlando’s holiday weather in mind — warm days and cooler evenings call for elegant layers perfect for festive outings.

When you’re ready to unwind, Rentyl at Reunion transforms your trip into a true retreat. Take a dip in your private pool, play a round on one of the championship golf courses, or relax in the thoughtfully designed living spaces of your vacation home, condo, or townhome. Enjoy resort luxuries like gourmet dining, wellness services, and curated family experiences that let you truly “Live Life On Vacation.”

With magical events, unforgettable adventures, and the sophistication of Rentyl at Reunion’s accommodations, Orlando is the ultimate holiday destination. Whether you’re exploring festive theme park celebrations or savoring moments of relaxation in your luxurious home, condo, or townhome, this season promises memories to cherish for a lifetime.