Christmas 2026: Discover the Top Holiday Events and Experiences in Your City - Explore Now

Best Attractions and Experiences in Orlando 2026

Experience Orlando's best Christmas attractions for 2026, from Santa visits and holiday train rides to ice skating, seasonal events, and family fun.

Best Attractions and Experiences in Orlando 2026

Orlando offers plenty of holiday attractions and seasonal experiences beyond Christmas lights and festive shows. From Santa visits and holiday train rides to ice skating, themed attractions, races, and interactive seasonal events, this guide highlights the best Christmas experiences in Orlando for 2026.

The Best Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Orlando This Season

Whether you're visiting with kids, planning a festive date, or looking for a new holiday tradition, these attractions and experiences are worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party — Lake Buena Vista

Every Christmas season Magic Kingdom Park changes into a yuletide adventure space for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a premier ticketed holiday extravaganza. Held on select nights throughout the season, this celebration invites families to enjoy exclusive holiday entertainment, dazzling castle projections, and seasonal character appearances. Guests can experience signature holiday parades, special fireworks, and complimentary seasonal treats around the park. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Disney themed Christmas excitement and create unforgettable holiday memories.

Insider Tip: Take full advantage of early park access! Although the party events do not officially kick off until 7:00 PM, your special event ticket allows you to pass through the Magic Kingdom turnstiles as early as 4:00 PM to squeeze in an extra three hours of park time before the festivities begin.

2. CLASH Endurance Daytona Triathlon Festival Weekend — Daytona Beach

The CLASH Endurance Daytona Triathlon Festival Weekend brings a unique holiday spin to the speedway. Athletes can tackle everything from a Sprint to a Middle Distance race on the road, or team up for the Redline Relay cycling event using the professional NASCAR pit stalls. If you want a break from the intense multi sport competition, you can run under a million holiday lights at the festive Jingle Jog 5K held at the adjacent ONE Daytona complex. It makes for a memorable weekend right at the start of December.

  • Dates: Friday, December 4th through Sunday, December 6th, 2026 
  • Admission: Registration entry fee required; open to the public for spectating
  • Street Address: Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: No (Strict racetrack and speedway facility safety regulations apply)
  • Parking: Extensive on-site parking available within the Daytona International Speedway complex
  • Website: https://clashendurance.com/

Insider Tip: Kick off the weekend's festivities on Friday night with the casual Jingle Jog 5K. The fun run takes place under 1 million sparkling holiday lights at the adjacent ONE Daytona complex, offering an ideal shakeout run before the competitive triathlon events begin on Saturday and Sunday.

3. OUC Orlando Half Marathon Weekend — Orlando

Honoring a remarkable 50 years of tradition and community pride, the OUC Orlando Half Marathon Weekend unites over 4,000 runners for a landmark celebration through the heart of the city. The scenic, flat courses wind past beautiful neighborhood streets, vibrant urban corridors, and canopy trees before culminating in a lakeside finish party at beautiful Lake Eola Park. Runners looking for the ultimate weekend challenge can sign up for the DTO 16.2 Challenge presented by Orangetheory Fitness, which combines both distances across two consecutive days of racing during the most "runderful" time of the year.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
  • Admission: Registration fee required for participants; free for course spectators
  • Street Address: Lake Eola Park, Orlando, FL 32801 (Half Marathon starts Saturday at 512 E Washington St; 5K starts Sunday at 195 N Rosalind Ave)
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: Yes (Outdoor spectator viewing areas around Lake Eola Park are dog friendly)
  • Parking: Public downtown Orlando parking garages (such as the Library or Centroplex garages) and street parking spots
  • Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/115848/ouc-orlando-half-marathon-weekend

Insider Tip: Make sure to schedule time on Thursday, December 3rd, or Friday, December 4th, to swing by The Plaza Live for the official race expo presented by Brooks. This is where you must pick up your race bib, timing chip, and participant shirt, as there is no race day packet pickup available at the start line.

4. Holiday 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at DeBary — DeBary

The Holiday 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon offers a welcoming, community driven racing experience just north of Orlando. Hosted by US Road Running, this seasonal athletic gathering is custom built for runners and walkers who love layback race days with just enough competition to keep things exciting. Whether you are chasing a personal record, collecting a beautiful themed holiday finisher medal, or simply enjoying the crisp December morning air with a supportive group of people, this event offers a personal, small town atmosphere backed by clear course markings, professional timing, and helpful race staff.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
  • Admission: Registration entry fee required
  • Street Address: 37 Dirksen Drive, DeBary, FL 32713
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: Yes (Outdoor public park space accommodates leashed dogs)
  • Parking: Free on-site parking available in the main park lot and surrounding public spaces
  • Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/111756/holiday-5k-10k-131m-at-debary-fl-49

Insider Tip: Water stations are only at the start/finish loop line. If you are tackling the 10K or Half Marathon, bring a handheld bottle or hydration vest to stay fueled between laps.

5. Holiday 5K & 10K at Melbourne — Melbourne

Wickham Park provides a beautiful, pine shaded backdrop for the Holiday 5K & 10K. Hosted by US Road Running, this event is custom built for local runners and walkers who prefer a relaxed, family friendly race day with just enough competitive spirit to keep things exciting. Participants can choose between a loop based 5K or a 10K distance, with everyone taking home an official themed holiday finisher medal. The small scale atmosphere ensures a smooth, non-intimidating experience where you can focus on hitting a personal target or enjoying an active holiday morning with great people.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
  • Admission: Registration entry fee required 
  • Street Address: Wickham Park, 2500 Parkway Dr, Melbourne, FL 32935
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: Yes (Leashed dogs are welcome in the spacious outdoor park areas)
  • Parking: Free parking available in the public lots within Wickham Park, specifically near the beach volleyball courts
  • Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/126804/holiday-5k-10k-at-melbourne-fl-49

Insider Tip: The starting line is located right next to the park's beach volleyball courts. Because the course is designed as a short, out and back loop that you repeat multiple times (twice for the 5K, four times for the 10K), the primary water station is strictly at the main start/finish line.

6. Gatorland's Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down — Orlando

Gatorland is putting a distinctly Floridian spin on Christmas cheer with its annual Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down. Alongside the park’s historic alligator exhibits and signature wildlife shows, families can enjoy joyful live holiday music, towering seasonal decor, and interactive character encounters. Guests can capture a classic Sunshine State memory with a photo alongside Gator Claus in his swamp ready sleigh, swap seasonal grumps with the mischievous Krampus Croc, or sing along as the legendary Florida Skunk Ape belts out his favorite "cryptid carols." This weekend also features local arts and crafts vendors showcasing one of a kind holiday gifts.

  • Dates: December 5th & 6th, December 12th & 13th, and December 19th & 20th, 2026
  • Admission: Included with regular park admission
  • Street Address: Gatorland, 14501 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: No (Live wildlife park safety regulations)
  • Parking: Free on-site parking available in the main Gatorland lot
  • Website: https://www.gatorland.com/plan-your-visit/events/

Insider Tip: Since all the programming, including your holiday photo ops with Gator Claus, Krampus Croc, and the singing Florida Skunk Ape, is completely included with your standard daily ticket, map out your park day around the main wildlife showtimes so you can hit the local arts and crafts vendor stalls in between performances.

7. SeaWorld Orlando's Christmas Celebration — Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando transforms its expansive marine grounds into an award winning winter wonderland for the annual Christmas Celebration. This multi week park festival blankets the area in millions of twinkling lights, towering displays, and immersive themed holiday zones. Guests can experience live Christmas shows, holiday shopping, and an array of seasonal treats and specialty drinks. This celebration also features unique character meet and greets with Santa Claus and a dazzling holiday fireworks display reflecting across the park’s central lagoon.

  • Dates: Friday, November 6th, 2026 through Sunday, January 3rd, 2027
  • Admission: Included with regular park admission (Also fully included for SeaWorld Annual Pass members)
  • Street Address: SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
  • Parking: Paid park parking available at the main SeaWorld Orlando gates
  • Website: https://seaworld.com/orlando/events/christmas-celebration/

Insider Tip: Make sure to download the official digital event map onto your phone before you arrive. It marks the precise locations for the specialized holiday treats, immersive light zones, and character meet and greets so you can effortlessly plan a smooth route.

8. Holiday Matsuri — Orlando

Affectionately known to fans as HolMat, Holiday Matsuri returns to the Orange County Convention Center as Florida's premier holiday themed anime, gaming, and cosplay convention. Celebrating its milestone 15th anniversary season, this weekend gathering brings a unique holiday twist to traditional pop culture conventions. Attendees can browse a massive vendor hall and an expansive Artist Alley packed with unique seasonal gifts and merchandise. The celebration features celebrity voice actor panels, gaming tournaments, themed holiday parties, and thousands of fans showcasing incredible, holiday inspired iterations of their favorite characters.

  • Dates: Friday, December 18th through Sunday, December 20th, 2026
  • Admission: Convention badge required
  • Street Address: Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
  • Kid Friendly: Yes (Fun for teens, tweens, and pop culture fans, though evening parties skew older)
  • Pet Friendly: No (Convention center regulations apply)
  • Parking: Paid parking available in the official Orange County Convention Center west and north lots
  • Website: https://holidaymatsuri.com/

Insider Tip: Come with your holiday shopping money and a plan for the Artist Alley and vendor hall. Because this is the 15th anniversary convention, makers bring out highly exclusive, limited edition holiday mashup prints and seasonal merch you won't find at any other con during the year.

9. Mount Dora 1 Mile (Invitation Only) — Mount Dora

Athletes looking for a swift challenge can gather in downtown Mount Dora just moments before the community's annual holiday parade begins. This unique Miile dash requires runners to meet strict qualifying times to secure an invitation to the starting line. While the event skips electronic chip timing, a prominent finish line clock tracks everyone's speed as they sprint down Donnelly Street. Top male and female competitors earn official championship crowns right before the spectator crowds line the avenues.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed / Invitation Only (Requires email qualification)
  • Street Address: E Jackson Ave & N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, FL 32757
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes (To spectate or qualify)
  • Pet-Friendly: No
  • Parking: Nearby public downtown lots
  • Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/MountDora/NaughtyOrNiceMile

Insider Tip: Once you cross the finish line, secure a curbside spot along Donnelly Street right away; your race concludes minutes before the 74th Annual Mount Dora Christmas Parade begins, giving you a front row view of the floats without having to battle the incoming spectator crowds.

10. Deltona Jingle Jog 5K — Deltona

Celebrate the winter season by hitting the road for a community focused morning run along Deltona Boulevard. Participants frequently show up with gear like holiday hats, elf ears, and bells to add extra humor to the course. This chip timed event features official age group awards and post race refreshments to celebrate everyone's hard work at the finish line. Best of all, a portion of the registration proceeds goes directly to support local families through the Deltona Firefighters Foundation toy drive.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 1200 Deltona Boulevard, Deltona, FL 32725
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No
  • Parking: Free on-site parking
  • Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/189718

Insider Tip: Only the first 500 registered participants are guaranteed an official finisher medal, so lock in your registration early rather than waiting for race day sign-ups.

11. Holiday 5K, 10K, & 13.1M — DeLand

US Road Running hosts a welcoming race day at Fatio Road designed for runners who appreciate smaller, more personal events. Competitors can choose their ideal distance between a 5K, 10K, or multi lap half marathon along a clearly marked path. The relaxed atmosphere makes it simple for newcomers to jump into a timed event without the overwhelming crowds of massive city races. Every individual who crosses the finish line takes home a custom themed medal to mark their achievement.

Insider Tip: Water stations are strictly located at the finish line area at the end of each lap, meaning half-marathoners should consider carrying a handheld bottle.

12. ITMS Howl-iday Hustle, Run, Walk, and Play! — Winter Springs

Families can welcome the winter season together at Central Winds Park during this inaugural morning fun run. The 5K course is open to all fitness levels, welcoming casual walkers, strollers, and serious runners alike. Upbeat holiday music and themed decorations line the path to keep spirits high from start to finish. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, pursue a finisher medal, and build lasting neighborhood traditions.

Insider Tip: The event features numerous family activities scattered along the route, so layout a plan to arrive closer to the 10:00 AM start time when the full musical setup is officially live.

13. AdventHealth Howey-in-the-Hills Reindeer Dash 5K — Howey-in-the-Hills

This beloved hometown morning run brings regional athletes together for a celebration of movement and neighborhood community. Organized in partnership with local leaders, the chip timed 5K accommodates everyone from seasoned racers chasing a personal record to first timers. Registrants receive a race shirt, an official finisher medal, and a post race snack to refuel after their effort. Additionally, a portion of the event's proceeds directly fund crucial non-profit organizations operating right in the local area via FloDash Runner's Club.

Insider Tip: Save time on race morning by taking advantage of the early packet pickup window at Dash Sports on Friday, December 11th, between 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

14. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Orlando

The Arthritis Foundation brings its original, long running holiday charity race back to Orlando to celebrate four decades of raising funds for a cure. Participants are encouraged to don their favorite winter costumes as they run, walk, or stroll through the neighborhood course. The morning gathering emphasizes collective action, community support, and spreading awareness for individuals living with arthritis. It serves as a fantastic opportunity to gather friends, family, or corporate teams together for a morning of meaningful fitness.

Insider Tip: Team registration is highly popular for this event, so if you're planning to run with coworkers, ensure everyone links to the same team profile during checkout to qualify for group recognition.

15. AdventHealth Santa's Twilight 5K — Cocoa

Athletes can experience a unique evening run through Cocoa Village during this twilight road race. Before the starting horn sounds, a large costume contest takes place where judges evaluate outfits across creative, speedy, and group categories. The evening features competitive divisions alongside casual paths, offering specialized awards for overall winners, masters divisions, and more. It provides a vibrant atmosphere that lights up the waterfront district well after sunset.

Insider Tip: To be eligible for any of the costume contest prizes or giveaways, you must wear your themed outfit for the entirety of the 5K, so pick a costume that is comfortable to run in.

16. Stuff Your Face Race — Orlando

This one of a kind athletic challenge combines standard running endurance with a unique culinary twist at General Rees Avenue. Participants can tackle a professionally timed, traditional 5K or take on the famous "Stuff Your Face Mile," which requires stopping at four distinct food tasting stations along the track. Energetic combo runners can even choose to complete both events back to back for the ultimate weekend test. All proceeds from this lighthearted morning directly benefit the local mental and behavioral health services provided by IMPOWER.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (Kids Dash is free)
  • Street Address: 2501 General Rees Ave, Orlando, FL 32814
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No
  • Parking: On-site park and street parking
  • Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Orlando/StuffYourFaceRace 

Insider Tip: While speed matters in the 5K, the crowd favorites are the coveted "Best Costume Awards." Gather a group and coordinate themed food or holiday outfits ahead of time to stand out at the judging table, but make sure your outfit leaves plenty of breathing room for those four intense mid mile food stops.

17. Naughty or Nice 5K — Lake Mary

Front Running Sports hosts a lively morning 5K where runners can find out if they land on Santa's good list this year. The neighborhood course fills with participants wearing creative holiday costumes, making it highly entertaining for spectators and racers alike. Every finisher takes home a custom themed medal, and the event hub features live musical entertainment alongside local winter vendors. It's a fantastic, upbeat environment designed to bring seasonal cheer to the Lake Mary community.

Insider Tip: Leave extra time to explore the start area after you finish, as local holiday vendors set up unique pop-up shops perfect for finding last minute gifts.

18. AdventHealth Santa's Twilight 5K — Clermont

This evening 5K invites runners to race through the streets of historic downtown Clermont under the stars. A pre-race costume contest sets a fun tone for the night, judging categories like Fastest Santa, Most Electrifying, and Best Group Outfits. The course caters to both competitive athletes pursuing age group medals and casual walkers soaking in the downtown night views. After crossing the finish line, participants can stick around for community awards and giveaways in the heart of the city.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 685 W Montrose St, Clermont, FL 34711
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No
  • Parking: Public downtown lots and street spots
  • Website: http://www.santastwilight5k.com/ 

Insider Tip: Downtown parking fills up rapidly before the evening festivities begin, so downloading the event's official parking map ahead of time will help you locate the hidden secondary lots.

19. Santa Hustle — Kissimmee

Kissimmee becomes a winter wonderland during this highly popular, music infused holiday road race managed by the Santa Hustle Race Series. The course winds through a scenic landscape filled with holiday tunes blasting from multiple course speakers to keep motivation levels high. Runners can refuel mid-race at unique candy cane and cookie stations scattered along the 5K and 10K tracks. It's a lighthearted, family friendly environment that brings the community together in one morning.

Insider Tip: The cookie and candy aid stations can get crowded with casual walkers, so if you're running for a personal record, stick to the far left of the path to bypass the lines smoothly.

20. Holiday 5K & 10K — Merritt Island

US Road Running brings its signature low pressure racing style to Merritt Island for a welcoming weekend athletic gathering. This small scale format gives the event a personal touch, allowing local walkers and runners to interact and encourage each other along the Banana River Drive course. Participants can focus on setting a personal time goal, collecting a uniquely themed winter medal, or simply enjoying outdoor exercise with close friends. 

Insider Tip: Take advantage of the signature US Road Running costume contest before the race begins. There is no extra fee to participate, and walkers are just as welcome to win a prize as runners, so throw on your brightest holiday socks or elf ears before heading to the starting line.

21. Mount Dora Half Marathon & 5K — Mount Dora

Join this gorgeous sunrise run through waterfront neighborhoods and tree lined vistas during this classic Central Florida racing weekend. The course features gentle rolling hills and pathways draped in beautiful Spanish moss, offering a distinct physical test compared to Florida's typical flat terrain. The 5K takes place on Saturday morning from Donnelly Park, followed by the main chip timed half marathon on Sunday departing from Elizabeth Evans Park. A portion of the weekend's proceeds directly benefits local youth sports through the Run 4 a Cause Foundation.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 19th and Sunday, December 20th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: 100 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, FL 32757
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs permitted with prior coordination)
  • Parking: Nearby downtown public lots
  • Website: https://mountdorahalfmarathon.com/ 

Insider Tip: This event does not permit strollers, skates, or wheeled devices of any kind on either the 5K or half marathon courses due to the narrow, winding nature of the historic streets.

22. Run Run Santa 1 Mile — Viera

This all-Santa mile sprint brings a wave of holiday cheer to the streets of Viera. The brief but high intensity distance makes it an accessible option for young children, casual jogger families, and elite sprinters looking to test their pure speed. Participants create an incredible sight as hundreds of runners dash along the course simultaneously in matching seasonal outfits. The morning environment is packed with laughter, community camaraderie, and great holiday photo opportunities.

  • Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Calvary Chapel Viera, 2852 Fellowship Pl, Melbourne, FL 32940
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No
  • Parking: Ample church lot parking
  • Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Viera/RunRunSanta1Mile 

Insider Tip: If you miss the Saturday morning sprint in Viera, the organizers host an identical sister race down in Vero Beach the very next day on Sunday, December 20th.

23. Santa's Run Fest — Winter Haven

Presented by the Winter Haven Optimist Club, this community oriented morning festival offers 5K, 10K, and 15K distance options alongside energetic children's sprints. The out and back course utilizes the scenic Chain of Lakes Trail, guiding 15K competitors all the way out toward Lake Alfred before they return. Running groups can form corporate, family, or social teams to compete for official trophies awarded to the largest and fastest teams. All finishers receive a custom bib, a commemorative event shirt, and a medal to celebrate their athletic efforts.

Insider Tip: Save time on race day by picking up your packet early at the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce Building on Friday, December 18th, between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

24. Holiday 5K, 10K, & 13.1M — DeBary

US Road Running provides a welcoming environment for locals looking to stay active during the winter season in DeBary. Runners and walkers can tackle their choice of a 5K, 10K, or half marathon along a clear, well mapped route starting on Dirksen Drive. The smaller crowd size ensures that each participant receives a personal experience while enjoying the structure of an officially timed event. Everyone that crosses the finish line is rewarded with a specialized themed medal to commemorate their performance.

Insider Tip: Water stations are exclusively positioned at the finish line area at the end of each lap loop, so multi-lap runners should prepare accordingly by bringing along personal hydration vests.

25. 14th Annual Holiday Stress Buster 5K — Lake Helen

Athletes can escape the frantic pace of holiday preparations by joining this long standing Christmas Eve morning tradition in Lake Helen. The 14th annual 5K takes place within the peaceful, shaded surroundings of Blake Park, offering a scenic route to clear your mind. The morning run provides a great opportunity to burn off some holiday energy with neighbors before evening family gatherings begin. On-site facilities and organized parking help ensure a smooth, relaxed start to your holiday weekend.

Insider Tip: Because this race takes place on Christmas Eve morning, parking spaces fill up much earlier than usual with families trying to complete a quick workout before their holiday travels begin, so plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before the 8:00 AM start.

26. The Ritz-Carlton Winter GLO 5k — Orlando

Grande Lakes Resort invites hotel guests and the general public to experience a luxury wellness morning along the scenic back nine of its championship golf course. Designed by Greg Norman, the stunning 5K path offers beautiful views and a premium selection of pre and post race yoga sessions to stretch out. Participants can explore over ten on-site wellness vendors, receive professional Theragun massages, and enjoy complimentary mimosas, champagne, and healthy snacks. Every registration includes high-end swag bags and automatic entry into a raffle featuring luxury spa treatments.

Insider Tip: Bring a change of resort casual clothes. After the finish line yoga, skip the immediate exit and head straight to the resort's lakeside terrace restaurants for brunch to keep the mimosas flowing and maximize your high value property access.

27. Holiday 5K, 10K, & 13.1M — Deltona

Runners looking to close out December with a personal record can head to Green Springs Park for a friendly morning race day managed by US Road Running. This community event caters to both casual walkers and competitive runners, offering three distinct distance loops up to a full half marathon. The natural park setting provides a peaceful backdrop for a morning workout away from the busy city traffic. Each participant who completes their distance takes home a beautiful, custom designed winter medal.

Insider Tip: The course loops directly through Green Springs Park's shaded nature paths, so wearing trail running shoes or shoes with decent grip to help you navigate any morning dew or damp leaves comfortably.

28. Holiday Five — Winter Park

Endurance athletes looking for a pure, no frills challenge can take on this multi-day running series along the Cady Way Trail organized by the Wingman Running Company. Staged over five consecutive days, the event gives participants the flexibility to tackle a 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, or 50K ultra-marathon on any or all of the scheduled dates. The organizer explicitly emphasizes a bare bones, low-key environment, trading away massive post race parties and age group trophies for exceptionally low entry fees and dedicated distance support. Runners loop past their parked vehicles and a central aid station pavilion on every lap, making personal gear management incredibly straightforward.

  • Dates: Sunday, December 27th through Thursday, December 31st, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Cady Way Trailhead, 2529 Cady Way, Winter Park, FL 32792
  • Kid-Friendly: Yes
  • Pet-Friendly: No
  • Parking: Free trailhead parking near the Cady Way Pool
  • Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/93291/holiday-five

Insider Tip: This is a strictly cupless event for water and sports drinks, so you must carry your own handheld bottle or hydration pack. The organizers only provide small cups for soda at the pavilion station.

Tips for Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Orlando

  • Book Santa photos early: Popular Santa visits at malls, train rides, and holiday villages sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as dates are announced.
  • Plan around nap and meal times: Holiday events draw crowds at peak times. Going right at opening or in the late afternoon often works better for younger kids.
  • Bring sun protection and a light layer: Many Christmas attractions and experiences are partially or fully outdoors. Daytime can be warm and evenings cool, so plan for both.
  • Bring snacks: Food at holiday events often has long lines and inflated prices. Packing your own snacks saves money and meltdowns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Orlando attractions and experiences this season.

What are the best Christmas attractions for kids in Orlando?

Orlando offers everything from Santa visits and ice skating to holiday train rides and  interactive exhibits. The right pick depends on your kids' ages and interests, so check the listings above for age recommendations.

Where can I take a photo with Santa in Orlando?

Major shopping centers, holiday villages, train experiences, and select neighborhood events offer photos with Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended for the most popular Santa visits, which book up weeks in advance.

Are Orlando Christmas experiences and attractions free for kids?

Most Orlando Christmas experiences are ticketed events, but many venues offer reduced prices and even free admission to certain age ranges. Check individual listings for details. 

When should I book Christmas attractions and experiences in Orlando?

Book ticketed activities as soon as dates are announced, typically in October. The closer to Christmas, the harder tickets are to get.

Can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Christmas Attractions and Experiences Worth the Drive from Orlando

Orlando isn't the only place worth visiting for family Christmas activities this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own kid-friendly holiday events worth the trip.

West Palm Beach, Florida — 2 Hours 30 Minutes from Orlando

For a family friendly excursion, meet Santa at CityPlace for festive photo opportunities and kid-centric holiday activities, and then stay for the Nightly Snowfall & Light Show, where snow falls three times each evening in the heart of downtown. And if you're looking to stay active during the holiday season, lace up your running shoes for the Holiday 5K, 10K & Half Marathon in nearby Royal Palm Beach.

Delray Beach, Florida — 2 Hours 45 Minutes from Orlando

If you're looking for more Christmas fun, step inside Delray Beach's 100-Foot Christmas Tree Holiday Village, where families can enjoy ice skating, a holiday carousel, mini golf, photos with Santa, themed activity nights, and festive attractions throughout December. Continue the holiday fun with the Delray Beach Jingle Bell Jog, a festive 5K where participants can dress in holiday attire and celebrate the season with a cheerful community run.

Plan Your Complete Orlando Christmas Experience

Orlando's family Christmas activities are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Orlando Christmas lights, holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, and Christmas markets and holiday shopping. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Orlando Christmas guide has you covered.

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