Orlando is world-famous for its theme parks which transform into true fairy tale settings during the Christmas season.
However, the magic of Christmas in Orlando isn’t limited to Disney, Universal, or SeaWorld. The city offers an impressive variety of Christmas attractions outside the parks, many of them free, allowing families to experience the holiday spirit without spending much.

In this article, we’ve selected our favorite attractions that we always recommend to our clients.

Christmas Market at Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park, the heart of downtown Orlando, transforms into an authentic European Christmas market during the season.
With dozens of decorated stalls, the market offers local crafts, unique Christmas decorations, and a variety of traditional food and drinks.

Visitors can enjoy traditional treats like German pretzels, hot chocolate, and even the traditional glühwein (mulled wine with spices). Children have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and participate in craft workshops.

Location: 512 East Washington Street, Orlando
Hours: 4 PM to 9 PM (Monday to Friday) and 12 PM to 9 PM (weekends)
Admission: Free entry

Orlando Ballet Christmas Show

One of Orlando’s most anticipated Christmas traditions is the presentation of the classic “The Nutcracker” by Orlando Ballet.
This enchanting show takes place at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and transports the audience to a magical world of toy soldiers, fairies, and dancing sweets.

The Ballet presents various sessions during December, with productions specially adapted for families with young children, including shorter and interactive performances.

Location: Dr. Phillips Center – 445 S Magnolia Avenue, Orlando
Hours: Various performances in December (check specific schedule)
Admission: Starting at $35, with discounts for children

Christmas lights in Winter Park

The city of Winter Park, close to Orlando, offers one of the region’s most beautiful Christmas decorations. Park Avenue, the city’s main street, transforms into a corridor of twinkling lights, with decorated trees and festive shop windows.
The highlight is Central Park, where a huge illuminated Christmas tree serves as a focal point for family photos. During weekends, live musical performances and Christmas choirs complete the festive atmosphere.

Location: Park Avenue, Winter Park
Hours: Lights are on from 6 PM to 11 PM daily
Admission: Free entry

Light Up UCF

The University of Central Florida campus transforms with thousands of lights, an 836 sq ft ice skating rink, and Christmas movie screenings on a giant outdoor screen.
For children, there’s also a train ride and meeting with Santa Claus.
Parking is free on weekends.

Location: University of Central Florida – 4000 Central Florida Blvd, Orlando, FL 32816 (Specifically at the Addition Financial Arena)
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 4 PM to 10 PM / Friday and Saturday 4 PM to 11 PM (From mid-November until early January)
Admission: Free entry

Disney Springs

Even without entering the parks, you can enjoy Christmas decorations, shows, and shopping at Disney’s entertainment complex.

Elaborate decoration with over 2,000 decorative pieces, the Christmas Tree Trail with dozens of Disney-themed trees, live shows with musicians and street artists, the traditional meeting with Santa Claus at Disney’s Days of Christmas store, and much more.

Location: 1486 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10 AM to 11 PM / Friday and Saturday 10 AM to midnight and special extended hours during the Christmas season
Admission: Free entry

Celebration Town Center

Disney’s planned city offers artificial “snow” every night and charming decorations.
The traditional small American town-style decoration, Market Street decorated with thousands of lights, and the giant Christmas tree in the central square are incredible attractions.
There’s also a carousel for children, live music, themed parades, and much more.

Location: 701 Front Street, Celebration, FL 34747
Hours: “Now Snowing” (artificial snow): daily at 6 PM, 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM / decorations and lights from 5 PM to 10 PM
From late November until December 31
Admission: Free entry

Comfort for the whole family with StrollerCare

To enjoy all these Christmas attractions with comfort and convenience, especially with young children, it’s essential to have proper equipment. StrollerCare offers the perfect service for families on vacation, renting:

Single strollers for babies and children
Double strollers for siblings or friends
Car seats with all necessary safety features
Mini cribs for rest times
High chairs to make daily life easier

Our equipment is sanitized and checked after each use, ensuring safety and comfort for your family. We offer delivery and pickup at your hotel or preferred location, allowing you to enjoy every magical Christmas moment in Orlando without worries.

Don’t let children’s fatigue interrupt your special moments. Reserve your stroller with StrollerCare and ensure more comfort and convenience for your family during this magical time of year in Orlando.

We hope our tips help you create the perfect itinerary for your Orlando vacation during the Christmas season, adding free and enchanting attractions.

Images:
disneysprings.com
gottagoorlando.com
orlandodatenightguide.com
centralfloridaballet.com
the32789.com