By Kate Cohen
When it comes to holiday traditions, there are few quite as spectacular as taking in the sights of elaborate light displays.
Whether you prefer to stroll along a festively lit path, drive through neighborhoods to marvel at decorated homes, or celebrate with a spirited community celebration, there are plenty of places for you to experience Christmas lights in Orlando.
Here are some of our favorite spots for must-see holiday lights this year.
5 of the Best Places to Experience the Holiday Lights
1. Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the spectacle of holiday lights in Orlando, Florida.
Every year, Leu Gardens’ 3/4-mile trail comes alive with millions of twinkling lights.
This year, the trail has been redesigned to include epic luminaria walls inspired by European holiday festivals, a candlelit forest of stained-glass windows, and a 70-foot tunnel of garland and glittering ornaments.
While you’re enjoying the beautiful views of holiday lights, you can enjoy sweet treats, cozy holiday drinks (including adult beverages), and live entertainment.
Ticket prices start at $22 for adults and $19 for children.
Enjoy Leu Gardens’ stunning lights display from Nov. 29, 2024, to Jan. 5, 2025.
2. Downtown for the Holidays at Lake Eola Park
The spirit of Downtown Orlando is made merrier with the Downtown for the Holidays Celebrations at Lake Eola Park.
Starting Friday, Dec. 6, the Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show will bring Lake Eola Park to life with dazzling synchronized light and music. Every night through Jan. 6, you’ll be able to catch this festive show every hour, starting at 5:45 p.m.and ending at 9:45 p.m.
While the Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show is not to be missed, be sure to take the time to wander the path around the lake and take in the sights of tens of thousands of twinkling holiday lights and the sounds of your favorite holiday tunes drifting through the air.
The lights will be on display every day of the week, but on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the festivities are even jollier. Stroll through the Merry Market where local vendors will be selling handmade products that make perfect holiday gifts. Enjoy snowfall near the Lake Eola House, and head inside to meet Santa for free!
In addition to holiday lights, there will also be special showings of holiday movies, a holiday drone show, and a variety of other free holiday events to enjoy.
3. Light Up the Holidays in Altamonte Springs
Every year, Light Up the Holidays in Altamonte Springs sets the bar high for holiday light displays and festive cheer.
In partnership with Duke Energy, the City of Altamonte Springs puts on a spectacular display of over 200,000 lights, including a towering 60-foot Christmas tree decorated with thousands of ornaments and over a mile of garland.
While the Light Up the Holidays event takes place on Dec. 7 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., you can enjoy the spectacular light displays throughout the month of December.
There will also be holiday concerts featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as holiday movie nights to be enjoyed curled up with your coziest blankets and your favorite seasonal snacks.
4. ‘Tis the Season in Historic Downtown Winter Garden
This holiday season, Downtown Winter Garden is transforming into a magical holiday wonderland.
On Dec. 6, the Light Up Winter Garden event kicks off the month-long festival from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with live holiday entertainment, holiday characters, a children’s train, street performers, and a children’s snow area.
At 6:15 p.m., the “momentous flipping of the switch” will bring Winter Garden to life with glowing holiday lights.
Until festivities end on Jan. 5, you’ll be able to visit Winter Garden for spectacular light displays and holiday cheer. Parties include a festive light show projected onto City Hall, horse drawn carriage tours, holiday movies, and other special events.
The City of Winter Garden is also hosting the De-Light-Ful Decorations Contest for residents, providing guests with plenty of beautiful residential light displays worthy of a cozy evening drive.
Check out the ‘Tis the Season Daily Event schedule to see what excitement is on the calendar this year.
5. Celebration’s Now Snowing
The cozy town of Celebration is known for its postcard-worthy Americana charm.
Every year around the holidays, Celebration transforms into a winter wonderland for a popular event known as Now Snowing.
In addition to beautiful displays of colorful Christmas lights, you’ll also find horse drawn carriage rides, nightly snow flurries, and ice skating in Celebration Town Center. The Snow Village will be selling holiday treats and gifts, which you can enjoy while listening to strolling Charles Dickens-style carolers.
Even Santa himself can’t resist the festivities, and he’s dropping by for the perfect photo op.
The neighborhoods of Celebration are often decked out in lights for the holidays, too, perfect for a festive drive or stroll before or after your Now Snowing experience.
Now Snowing will be held nightly from Nov. 30 through Dec. 31. Parking and admission are free. Available for a fee are additional holiday activities such as ice skating, carriage rides, etc.
Make Rosen Shingle Creek Your Orlando Holiday Destination
This holiday season, stay at a resort that has everything you need for a celebratory getaway.
From our own breathtaking holiday light displays to our Christmas Day brunch buffet and memorable multi-course dinners at our onsite restaurants, we’ll make sure you have a holiday full of comfort and joy.
