877.227.6963Downtown Orlando Christmas – Your Guide to Holiday Magic
Searching for holiday magic in Downtown Orlando?
You’re about to step into a season full of festive cheer. Orlando may be known for its theme parks, but when the holidays arrive, Downtown Orlando turns into a scene straight out of a Christmas movie.
With twinkling lights, holiday markets, and cheerful celebrations on every corner, the downtown area hosts plenty of holiday events. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic getaway, or a night out with friends, Downtown Orlando has it all, without the theme park crowds.
Keep reading to unwrap the best things to do in Downtown Orlando during the holiday season.
Top Christmas Events in Downtown Orlando
Downtown Orlando comes alive with holiday spirit every year, with merry events that bring people together and make memories for all ages.
Lake Eola Wonderland & “Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show”
Location: 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801
Phone Number: (407) 246-4484
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One of the best places to visit in Orlando for Christmas is Lake Eola Park. Lake Eola Park becomes the heart of the holiday season, with a 72-foot tree that lights up the night with synchronized lights and music.
Visit the local vendors, take photos with Santa, and enjoy performances that bring the season to life. Catch the snow falling by Lake Eola House every 15 minutes throughout December, turning the area into a true winter wonderland.
Winter Park Christmas Parade
Location: Park Avenue in Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone Number: (407) 599-3399
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Get in the holiday spirit by attending the annual Winter Park Christmas Parade, just a quick 15-minute drive from Downtown Orlando. This beloved tradition is Central Florida’s oldest continuous holiday parade, running strong for more than 70 years.
The parade travels down Park Avenue, featuring colorful floats, performances, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. It’s a fantastic, family-friendly event offering free entertainment and a wonderful way to celebrate the season with the community.
Holiday Movies at Lake Eola Park
Location: East Lawn at Lake Eola, 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801
Phone Number: (407) 246-4484
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Outdoor movies might remind you of warm summer nights, but during Christmas, you can still enjoy them. Watch holiday classics under the stars with outdoor movie screenings at Lake Eola Park. Films such as The Polar Express and Elf set the mood for a cheerful evening.
Be sure to bring blankets, chairs, and snacks to relax with family and friends. For extra comfort, wear your favorite Christmas pajamas!
Limited Time Offer
Exclusive "Elevate Your Stay" Package
Enjoy special savings while enhancing your experience when you stay 2 nights or more. Premium rooms on this offer consist of either larger floor space, desirable views or amenities. Offer also includes breakfast for two guests and late check-out. Late check-out time varies by property and is based on availability.
Best Christmas Light Displays in Downtown Orlando
Celebrate the season by visiting the dazzling Christmas light displays—perfect for families, couples, and photographers eager to capture the season’s charm.
Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Location: 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Phone Number: (407) 246-2620
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One of the best Christmas events in Orlando is Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens. Set within the city’s beautiful botanical garden, this light show features a tunnel of 14-foot stars, paths lit by twinkling lights, and synchronized music.
You can even dance under the falling Florida snow at Dazzling Nights! A once-in-a-lifetime activity during your Downtown Orlando Christmas getaway
Winter on the Avenue
Location: 150 W Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone Number: (407) 644-8281
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Just minutes from downtown Orlando, Park Avenue turns into a Christmas postcard with twinkling lights, charming storefronts, and beautifully decorated holiday window displays.
Enjoy Winter on the Avenue by strolling down the street while sipping on hot cocoa before popping into local shops. Admire the bright Christmas tree or carolers to get in the holiday spirit.
Thornton Park & Ivanhoe Village Holiday Lights
Wander through two trendy neighborhoods this season and enjoy all of the sparkling holiday lights.
Thornton Park shines with twinkling lights draped along its brick-lined streets. This stylish district is known for its art galleries, cafes, and boutiques, many of which offer holiday specials and extended hours during the season.
Just a few minutes away, Ivanhoe Village brings its own holiday magic with colorful light displays. Visit its quirky shops, craft breweries, and enjoy the lakeside views throughout the holiday season.
Holiday Shopping & Christmas Markets
During a Downtown Orlando Christmas, you’ll find plenty of holiday markets where you can shop for unique gifts. Here are a few favorites.
Merry Market
Location: 20 N Eola Dr, Orlando, FL 32801
Phone Number: (407) 246-4484
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This holiday version of the famous Orlando Farmers Market features local crafts, gourmet treats, and plenty of festive gifts.
Making it a perfect stop for holiday shoppers looking to support local artisans. Enjoy the “snow” flurries and food pop-ups while admiring the Christmas tree during your visit.
Ivanhoe Village Holiday Market
Location: 1001 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804
Phone Number: (321) 888-1717
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Shop til you drop at the Ivanhoe Village Holiday Market! Discover handmade gifts at 20 vendors, enjoy live music, and sip on seasonal cocktails. This is a great family-friendly event with plenty of photo opportunities with Santa Claus.
Winter Park’s Holiday Shopping Scene
Location: 150 W Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone Number: (407) 644-8281
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Park Avenue in Winter Park is the perfect place to enjoy holiday shopping when visiting Orlando at Christmas. This scenic, tree-lined street is home to charming boutiques filled with special gifts, seasonal decor, and holiday deals.
It’s a great spot to find one-of-a-kind presents while enjoying the lights, window displays, just minutes from Downtown Orlando.
Limited Time Offer
Exclusive "Elevate Your Stay" Package
Enjoy special savings while enhancing your experience when you stay 2 nights or more. Premium rooms on this offer consist of either larger floor space, desirable views or amenities. Offer also includes breakfast for two guests and late check-out. Late check-out time varies by property and is based on availability.
Christmas Dining & Festive Drinks in Downtown Orlando
When it comes to holiday dining and festive drinks, Downtown Orlando offers plenty of fun spots and nightlife to celebrate the season. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a casual treat, or a night out with friends, there’s something for everyone.
Best Holiday Dining Experiences
Looking for a holiday meal to enjoy with the family? Downtown Orlando has plenty of spots serving up festive eats and drinks to make your season extra special.
The Boheme, located right inside the historic Grand Bohemian Hotel, is a favorite spot in downtown Orlando. With its beautiful art-filled space, it’s the perfect spot for a fancy Christmas dinner with live jazz.
For waterfront dining, Russell’s on Lake Ivanhoe offers seasonal cocktails alongside delicious holiday dishes in a lakeside setting. This longtime Orlando favorite has been serving up fresh seafood and classic American fare since 1991.
Meanwhile, Kres Chophouse is a classic steakhouse everyone knows and loves for its warm atmosphere and top-quality cuts of meat. Their special holiday menu is perfect for sharing good food and great company.
Cozy Cafés & Holiday Treats
Christmas is all about cookies and holiday treats, and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by indulging in them.
If you’re looking for a warm holiday pick-me-up, Lineage Coffee Roasting serves seasonal favorites like peppermint mochas and gingerbread lattes.
For vegan-friendly sweet treats, Valhalla Bakery offers an array of holiday cookies and holiday pastries that everyone can enjoy.
Festive Holiday Bars & Christmas-Themed Cocktails
Sip your way into the holiday spirit by visiting Downtown Orlando’s festive bars, where Christmas-themed cocktails are waiting for you.
For a night of holiday cheer, head to Hanson’s Shoe Repair, a speakeasy-style bar serving limited-time Christmas cocktails. The best part about visiting this cocktail bar is the secret entrance that requires a password.
Head over to The Courtesy, which celebrates the season with its “12 Days of Cocktails” menu, featuring creative holiday drinks. Pair one of their handcrafted cocktails with tasty small bites like their mouthwatering smashburgers.
Or stop by Mathers Social Gathering, a vintage cocktail bar beautifully decked out for the holiday season. Enjoy your drink while taking in the glow of twinkling lights, sparkling Christmas trees, and festive decorations.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels for Christmas in Downtown Orlando
It’s important to consider the following when choosing Downtown Orlando accommodations. A great stay starts with the right location, especially during Christmas. Here’s why it matters.
Why Stay in Downtown Orlando for Christmas?
Staying in downtown Orlando during the holiday season puts you close to holiday markets, parades, and sparkling light displays.
It’s a great way to enjoy the city’s Christmas spirit while avoiding the heavy crowds at the theme parks. It’s the best of both worlds, holiday magic without the traffic and crowds.
Why Choose Crowne Plaza Orlando Downtown?
Crowne Plaza Orlando Downtown is the best extended-stay Orlando hotel for the holidays, offering roomy suites with kitchenettes that make longer stays feel more like home.
Its prime location puts you just minutes from Lake Eola’s Christmas events and all the downtown festivities, giving you a break from the crowded tourist areas while still being close to all the holiday fun.
Book your stay at Crowne Plaza Orlando Downtown and be right where the holiday cheer happens, without the hassle.
Limited Time Offer
Exclusive "Elevate Your Stay" Package
Enjoy special savings while enhancing your experience when you stay 2 nights or more. Premium rooms on this offer consist of either larger floor space, desirable views or amenities. Offer also includes breakfast for two guests and late check-out. Late check-out time varies by property and is based on availability.
Experience the Magic of a Downtown Orlando Christmas
There’s nothing like visiting Downtown Orlando during the holidays. With lit-up Christmas trees, seasonal events, and a holiday atmosphere.
Whether you’re spending time with family, enjoying a date night, or exploring on your own, downtown’s holiday charm won’t disappoint. From glowing light shows at Lake Eola to lively parades and holiday-themed dining, you’re in for a memorable season.
Stay close to the action by choosing Crowne Plaza Orlando Downtown. Whether you’re planning a long-term holiday stay or just want spacious suites in a prime location, it’s the perfect home base for your Christmas fun.
Don’t wait, book your holiday stay and experience the Christmas magic of Orlando!
