What better way to celebrate the holidays in Orlando than in the most magical theme parks in the world? Orlando is home to some of the most famous theme parks globally, and during the holiday season, they transform into a true winter wonderland, even without the cold weather. From extravagant decorations and dazzling lights to festive parades and exclusive holiday shows, Orlando’s theme parks pull out all the stops to make the season unforgettable. While you’re soaking in the holiday magic, consider staying at Casiola Orlando, where you can enjoy comfortable accommodations and convenient access to all the attractions. Whether you’re exploring the fairy-tale atmosphere of Walt Disney World®, the epic worlds of Universal Orlando™, or getting an aquatic twist at SeaWorld®, you’ll find that each park brings its own unique spin to the holidays in Orlando. With special events and attractions that only happen this time of year, you won’t want to miss out on the magical moments waiting for you.
Walt Disney World® Resort
At Walt Disney World®, the holiday magic truly is everywhere, making it a top choice for unforgettable holidays in Orlando. From the moment you step foot in the parks, you’re surrounded by twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the joyful sounds of the season. Every corner of the parks has something to offer, creating the perfect destination for holiday cheer. Here are two can’t-miss events that will fill your heart with holiday joy:
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Imagine walking down Main Street, U.S.A., as snow falls gently around you, despite the warm Florida weather. At Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, offered on select evenings from November 8 to December 20, from 7:00 PM to midnight, you’ll experience this and so much more during the enchanting holidays in Orlando. This special event at Magic Kingdom is a ticketed celebration that includes a Christmas parade, stunning fireworks, and meet-and-greets with your favorite Disney characters, all dressed up in their holiday best. The highlight of the night is the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, featuring Santa Claus, giant toy soldiers, and beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy. You’ll also enjoy festive stage shows, special holiday treats like complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and exclusive access to some of the park’s rides with shorter wait times. It’s an event that will make your holidays in Orlando even more magical.
EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays
If you’re a fan of learning about different cultures and traditions, then the EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays, running from November 29 through December 30, is a must-do during your holidays in Orlando. During this time, EPCOT’s World Showcase transforms into a celebration of global holiday traditions, with 11 countries showcasing how they celebrate the season. You can indulge in seasonal dishes from around the world at the Holiday Kitchens, where each country offers its own take on festive food and drink. But that’s not all! You can enjoy the heartwarming Candlelight Processional, a retelling of the Christmas story by celebrity narrators accompanied by a choir and live orchestra. It’s an awe-inspiring and moving performance that brings the true meaning of the holidays in Orlando to life.
Universal Orlando Resort™
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, Universal Orlando Resort™ offers an epic holiday experience filled with over-the-top entertainment and thrills during the holidays in Orlando. The holiday season at Universal Studios™ Florida and Islands of Adventure™ is nothing short of spectacular, and here are two of the biggest holiday events you won’t want to miss:
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
You don’t have to be in New York City to experience the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—Universal Orlando™ brings it right to you with their own Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s running from November 22 to December 31, perfect for the holidays in Orlando! This parade features giant balloons inspired by the iconic Macy’s parade, along with stunning floats, energetic dancers, and beloved characters like the Minions and Shrek. Santa himself makes an appearance, spreading holiday cheer and lighting the enormous Christmas tree. The whole experience is brimming with festive energy, making it a tradition that families look forward to year after year.
Grinchmas™ at Islands of Adventure
Over at Islands of Adventure™, the holidays in Orlando take on a quirky, mischievous twist with Grinchmas™ running from November 22 to December 31. The entire Seuss Landing area is transformed into a wintery wonderland, and the highlight is the live retelling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. You’ll laugh, you’ll cheer, and you might even tear up as the Grinch’s heart grows three sizes in this heartwarming show. Don’t forget to meet the Grinch himself—this lovable (yet grumpy) character is available for photo ops, and trust us, he’s full of surprises!
SeaWorld® Orlando
For an aquatic spin on the holidays in Orlando, head to SeaWorld® Orlando. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration brings the joy of the season to life with shimmering lights, live shows, and some of the ocean’s most beloved animals. It’s a unique way to celebrate, especially for families who love marine life.
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
Dive into a sea of holiday cheer during the holidays in Orlando as SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, offered on select dates beginning November 8 through January 2, is decked out in millions of sparkling lights and festive decor. One of the highlights of this event is Rudolph’s ChristmasTown, where you can meet classic holiday characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Clarice, and the Bumble. The park also features wintery shows, including O Wondrous Night, a live nativity told through the eyes of the animals that were there. This heartwarming performance features over 30 carols and life-sized puppets, making it a magical experience for all ages. Plus, don’t miss the chance to enjoy holiday-themed animal shows, seasonal treats, and even a visit from Santa Claus!
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
For families with younger children, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is the perfect holiday destination for the holidays in Orlando, offering a mix of playful fun and festive spirit. LEGOLAND’s Christmas Bricktacular is a must-do event that turns the park into a wonderland made of LEGO bricks.
LEGOLAND’s Christmas Bricktacular
During the Christmas Bricktacular, happening on November 29-30 and December 1, 7-8, 14-15, and 21-31, part of the holidays in Orlando, everything is made of LEGO, including a giant LEGO® Christmas tree that stands over 30 feet tall! Kids can participate in fun holiday-themed building activities, meet LEGO® Santa and his friends, and enjoy interactive shows. The park is also filled with holiday decorations, making it a fun and festive experience for the whole family. Don’t forget to grab some holiday-themed snacks while you’re there—LEGO®-shaped treats are always a hit with the little ones.
Holiday lights and festive displays
Orlando doesn’t just celebrate the holidays in Orlando at the theme parks—it’s also a city that lights up in every corner with beautiful holiday displays. Throughout the holiday season, you’ll find dazzling light shows and immersive winter experiences that capture the magic of this time of year during the holidays in Orlando.
Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
For a more serene holiday experience during the holidays in Orlando, take a walk through the beautifully illuminated Leu Gardens during the Dazzling Nights event, running from November 29 to January 5, at 1920 N Forest Ave. Towering trees are adorned with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere as you explore the gardens. This is the perfect spot for families, couples, or anyone looking for a peaceful, festive escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lights create a stunning backdrop for photos, and the quiet ambiance allows you to really soak in the holiday spirit. It’s an ideal date night activity or a family outing that offers a slower pace, but just as much holiday cheer.
Holiday light shows and displays
In addition to the larger events, the holidays in Orlando are enriched by several community holiday light displays that bring small-town charm to the big city. Lake Eola Park and Cranes Roost Park are both known for their beautiful holiday light displays, where visitors can take leisurely walks along illuminated paths or attend special holiday concerts. The sights are truly spectacular, with colorful lights reflecting off the water and creating a magical scene that’s perfect for a family outing or a relaxing evening under the stars. Whether you’re attending a holiday concert or simply enjoying the twinkling lights, these local displays are a must-see during the holiday season.
Staying with Casiola during the holidays in Orlando
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Stunning ChampionsGate Home! *Private Pool/Spa + Game Room*
Orlando
Spacious, well appointed living areas and at-home amenities such as flat-screen TV's in each bedroom, a laundry room with washer and dryer, and complimentary Wi-Fi are just a few reasons why this ChampionsGate home is the perfect spot for your next Orlando trip. Plus, this vacation home is located just a few minutes from Disney World, Universal Studios, restaurants and shopping options! As a guest of ChampionsGate Resort, you will have free, unlimited access to all resort amenities, including: -25,000-square-foot "Oasis Clubhouse" -Zero-entry Family Pool and Whirlpool -Kids Pool and Splash Pad -3 Waterslides -Lazy River -Adults-only Pool -Tiki Bar -Spa -Full-service Restaurant and Bar -Fitness Center and Aerobics Room -Game/Arcade Room -Movie Theater -Volleyball and Tennis Courts -And more! THE SPACE: Blue skies and lush green landscapes stretch beyond the backyard lanai. While the kids swim in the sparkling pool you can lounge on the pool deck with a good book and cold cocktail. After the kiddos go to bed, sink into the warm waters of the hot tub. You can also dine al fresco at the patio table and cook out on the gas grill. The screened lanai even has a safety fence around the pool to keep the littlest guests safe. **Optional pool and spa heat is available for $35/day + tax. - We recommend adding this option to your reservation between the months of November and April.** Pulled from the pages of a design magazine, the open family room boasts a large sectional couch and flat-screen TV. The garage-turned-game room is the place to be for fun with a pool table, foosball table and gaming center. Upstairs in the loft area, it’s a movie-lovers dream with another flat-screen TV and several movie theater chairs. White cabinets contrast nicely with black subway tile in the gourmet kitchen. Cook up a storm with stainless matte appliances and tons of prep space on the solid surface counters. Choose to dine at the formal eight-person dining table or have a more casual meal at the seven-person table just off the kitchen. Need even more room? The kitchen bar seats four more. Warm wood accents and neutral color scheme give the main-lever first bedroom an inviting vibe. Guests will enjoy a queen bed and en-suite bathroom with double sinks and walk-in shower. Sleep like a baby in the second bedroom’s platform king bed and pamper yourself in the luxurious en-suite bathroom with double sinks, separate shower and soaking tub. Spend the night with Mickey in the third bedroom with two twin beds and en-suite bathroom. The fourth bedroom is clean and crisp with posh white bedding and furniture, including full bed. May the Force be with you in the fifth bedroom with full bed, which is connected to the sixth bedroom by a jack-and-jill bathroom. The sixth bedroom also has a full bed. Whether it’s the location, the amenities, or the style – you can’t go wrong with stay at Champions Gate Resort! You will be staying less than 20 minutes from Universal Studios, Disney World and other Orlando theme parks. As part of the ChampionsGate community, numerous restaurants, grocery store, drug stores, and other retailers are close by and easily accessible.- 12
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Tropical Condo W/Balcony Near I-Drive, Universal, Heated Pool, BBQ
Orlando
Step into classic Florida with this spaciously elegant 3-bed, 2-bath condo in gorgeous upscale Vista Cay, only minutes away from the heart of Orlando’s entertainment! The common room features an extra-large sectional with a built-in chaise lounge, addition visitor seating, glass coffee table, wall-mounted flat-screen, and a deluxe window that allows for the Florida sunshine to make a special guest appearance. The dining area showcases elegant white chandelier and a voluminous banqueting table prepared for a party of six. Whether you’re entertaining or simply looking to prepare a special meal for the family, you won’t be able to get enough of this kitchen, highlighting granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, luminous pendant lighting, and endless storage within an array of cabinets. In the sitting room you will find tasteful island-inspired artwork and a cozy sofa beautifully framed by two matching end tables with ornate lamps atop. Bedroom 1 features 2 full size beds with tufted headboards and plenty of room to unpack and make yourself at home. Bedroom 2 showcases a king size bed, two matching modern nightstands, and calming color palate to put you in a state of ultimate tranquility, Bedroom 3 proudly boasts a king size bed with an elegant headboard, a stylish ottoman, quintessential paddle fan, and its very own private en suite with a commodious double vanity, and shower with separate tub. Your vacation should be easy and carefree, that is why in addition to your living quarters, you will find a washer and dryer stored in the laundry room for your ultimate convenience. Vista Cay Resort offers a 2.5 mile walking trail around Lake Cay which is located directly behind this unit offering easy access for your early morning jog and a relaxing walk at sunset! Vista Cay Resort is right next door to the Orange County Convention Center, and less than 15 minutes away from all major theme parks, including SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. If you want to experience a Florida in a whole new way, welcome yourself into Vista Cay!- 10
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$135/night -
Large 4 BR top floor condo, close to attractions!
Orlando
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Orlando, Florida, the luxury vacation home condo at Vista Cay Resort is a haven of comfort and extravagance. With its strategic location near the bustling I-Drive, Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and the enchanting Premium Outlets, this vacation home is a gateway to an unforgettable vacation experience. The moment you step into the condo, the expansive living room with 65" smart TV, electric fireplace and dining area welcome you with a sense of luxury and warmth. The tasteful furnishings and thoughtful layout create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and quality time with loved ones. The fully equipped kitchen, adorned with modern appliances and ample counter space, caters to the needs of culinary enthusiasts, offering a seamless cooking experience. Whether it's a quick snack or a gourmet feast, this kitchen is designed to meet your every culinary need. Additionally, the inclusion of a well-appointed laundry room adds a touch of convenience, allowing guests to make the most of their stay without the worry of laundry chores. The four bedrooms within the condo provide serene retreats after a day of exploration. The first room, featuring a luxurious king-size bed, is accompanied by a private and spacious bathroom complete with a refreshing shower, a relaxing bathtub, and a convenient sofa bed, providing a peaceful sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The second bedroom offers a comfortable queen bed, while the third bedroom features another queen bed, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for guests. The fourth bedroom boasts two queen beds, ensuring ample space for larger groups or families. Additionally, the condo is equipped with two full bathrooms, ensuring that every guest's needs are met with convenience and comfort. Vista Cay Resort itself is a testament to the highest standards of hospitality, offering a host of amenities that cater to every whim. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, or indulge in the delectable offerings at the on-site dining venues, the resort ensures that every moment of your stay is filled with comfort and luxury. Vista Cay Resort is not just a place to stay; it's an immersive experience that combines elegance, comfort, and convenience. Whether you're seeking adventure at the nearby attractions or simply looking to create cherished memories with your loved ones, this condo promises an unforgettable vacation experience that will stay with you for years to come.- 10
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$168/night -
Close to Universal, Disney, I-Drive and OCCC!
Orlando
Conveniently located just 10 minutes from Universal Studios, this spacious townhouse boasts three elegant bedrooms, each featuring its own private bathroom. Set in Vista Cay, a beautiful gated lakefront community, this home offers an array of resort-style amenities, including a heated pool, hot tub, game room, gym, basketball and tennis courts, and a playground. With a contemporary design and a modern atmosphere, this is the ultimate Orlando destination. Inside, you'll find brand new flooring throughout (no carpets) and amazing memory foam mattresses for a restful night's sleep. The living room is equipped with a generous 75-inch smart TV, and each bedroom is furnished with its own Roku TV. The suite configurations include a king bed in Bedroom 1 (ground floor) with a private bathroom, Bedroom 2 with two full size beds and a private bathroom, and Bedroom 3 with two queen size beds and a private bathroom. The living room also offers a queen sofa bed for additional guests. Stay connected with free high-speed internet, and take advantage of complimentary parking and access to resort amenities. The kitchen is fully equipped for your culinary needs, and a washer and dryer are available for your convenience. This luxury 3-story townhouse ensures that each bedroom is a suite with its own private bathroom, providing ample space for all guests. The second floor hosts the living room, dining area, and a modern kitchen, while the first floor features the main entrance and a king suite with a private bathroom. You'll have a private driveway and access to a large parking lot for additional vehicles. Enjoy a stress-free stay in the heart of Orlando, just minutes from Universal Studios.- 10
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$135/night