Presents, parties, decorations, travel—Christmas has the reputation of draining our bank accounts! Thankfully, when it comes to finding fun holiday events that won’t cost an arm and a leg, Orlando has you covered. Don’t miss these free (or almost free!) holiday events.
City of Orlando
Offering a number of free or almost-free events, the City of Orlando rings in the holidays with plenty of spirit. Christmas in America highlights holiday traditions from around the world and takes place December 6 through January 5 from 5 to 10 pm. The event also includes a Santa house, ice rink, snow and vendors. On December 14, the Rotary Club of Orlando sponsors the Downtown Orlando Christmas parade from 2 to 6 pm. You can also just wander the streets of downtown Orlando and view the storefronts and windows decked out in their holiday finery.
Lake Eola Park
On December 6, the city will light up the 72-foot Lake Eola Park Christmas tree in a fun festival with live music and vendors selling awesome wares. After the lighting, you can enjoy a nightly light and music show every hour from 5:45 to 9:45 pm. Bring the whole gang out for family-friendly movies at the park’s Walt Disney Amphitheater. Movies are shown on December 13, 20 and 27 from 7 to 9 pm and are free. You’ll enjoy holiday classics including Elf, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Now Snowing at Celebration
One thing that Orlando lacks during the Christmas season is snow. The Town of Celebration has remedied that issue with its Now Snowing event, taking place November 24 through December 31. Each night, guests are treated to real live snowfall at 6, 7, 8 and 9 pm, along with performances and live music. The snowfall and concert portions of the event are free, while the other activities—ice skating, sleigh rides and pictures with Santa—have an additional cost.
Light Up UCF Holiday Film Festival
Not just for college kids, the UCF Holiday Film Festival invites guests of all ages to take part in this fun holiday tradition. Each weekend in December, the festival shows holiday films on a two-story screen. The festival isn’t just about the movies, however. Guests can enjoy tons of Christmas lights, fun music and activities like ice skating, ice slide, carousel, ferris wheel and more. The movies and light show are free, as well as parking, with additional fee for the other activities.
All of Casiola’s rentals are located close to these events and activities, allowing you to experience all of the fun. Spend your holiday season with family and friends in Orlando, making one of our amazing rentals your home for the holidays.
Read more:
- https://www.orlando.gov/Community-Programs-Events/2019-Holiday-Celebrations
- https://celebrationtowncenter.com/now-snowing-tree-lighting-ceremony-2018/
- http://www.lightupucf.com/holiday-film-festival
