Orlando Holidays 2025 – A Guide to the Best Time to Visit

No matter what time of year you’re planning your holiday vacation, Orlando is the ultimate destination. With high-caliber Christmas and Halloween celebrations and fun-filled summer and fall events throughout the city, there are seemingly endless ways to enjoy the Orlando holidays!

From Disney World and Universal theme parks to annual food, music, and entertainment events, Orlando is a city brimming with major tourist attractions and local cultural experiences. Finding the perfect time to go just means deciding what you want to explore most. 

Beyond offering top-of-the-line suites here in Downtown Orlando, our team at Crowne Plaza Orlando Downtown knows the ins and outs of this city, and we want to ensure you make the most of your trip with our insider knowledge. 

In this guide, we’ll look at the best times to visit Orlando, a few major events to keep your eye on, and where to stay so you can enjoy a memorable and stress-free vacation in the City Beautiful. 

Best Times to Visit Orlando for a Holiday

When planning Orlando holidays, one of the first things many people ask us is, “When should we go?”

Timing is important for long-term stays in Orlando, as the city has distinct seasonal highs and lows. Depending on the time of year you come, you could have a completely different experience. 

Now, while we believe you can visit Florida any time of year and have a memorable vacation, it’s worth looking into the best times to visit based on the weather, crowds, and activities.

Winter Holidays (Nov–Dec)

Winter is a magical time in Orlando. 

All of the businesses and theme parks are lit up with holiday decor, and temperatures are gorgeous, sitting mostly around the low 70s. 

Starting in November, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Disney World is a major hit, with celebrity chef demonstrations, live music performances, and over 30 food booths with dishes from across the globe. 

Once December rolls around, many tourists start flocking to theme parks. While the parks are incredible to see this time of year, you can expect larger crowds.  

• Top Attractions:
  • Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom
  • Universal’s Holiday Parade
  • Holiday light displays in Downtown Orlando
  • Fireworks at Lake Eola on New Year’s Eve
• Pros: Festive atmosphere and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
• Cons: Prices can be higher due to the holiday season.

Spring Break (March–April)

We often say that the best time to visit Orlando is in the Spring. While you will see plenty of spring breakers out and about, the temperatures are great (with around eight hours of sunshine each day, and tons of exciting events and attractions. 

From the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival to the Atlanta Braves spring training games, there’s plenty to do in March. By April, Disney’s Star Wars 5K/10K kicks off as part of the Run Disney events, and many locals and tourists flock to attend the Florida Film Festival.

• Top Attractions:
  • Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival
  • Local Easter egg hunts
  • Apopka Fair
  • Kowtown Festival

• Pros: Beautiful weather, fun festivals, and lively energy
• Cons: Spring break crowds can get a bit hectic

Summer Vacations (June–August)

Summer Orlando holidays are best if you don’t mind the heat and humidity and want to enjoy the city’s many water parks, including Blizzard Beach, Volcano Bay, and Typhoon Lagoon! Just expect peak seasonal crowds the moment school is out and weather that can reach around 90 degrees starting in July. 

While there are often longer wait times for the city’s main attractions until August, the parks have extended hours for longer enjoyment. 

• Top Attractions:
  • Water parks like Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Universal’s Volcano Bay
  • Fourth of July celebrations at Walt Disney World and Downtown Orlando
  • Concerts and outdoor events.
• Pros: Extended summer hours at the theme parks and many festivals
• Cons: High temperatures, humidity, rain, and larger crowds, especially around major holidays.

Fall Holidays (Sept–Oct)

School goes back into session in September, so if you want to enjoy your Orlando holidays without the crowds, the start of Fall is the perfect time. Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of sunshine, warm weather, and events!

The Epcot Food & Wine Festival is still happening around this time, and the parks begin gearing up for Halloween. 

• Top Attractions:
  • Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios
  • Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa & SeaWorld Orlando
  • SeaWorld Spooktacular
  • Brick or Treat LegoLand Florida
• Pros: Smaller crowds, cooler weather, and Halloween festivities.
  Cons: Hurricane season peaks in September and October, so prepare for possible storms.

Tip: To avoid the peak tourist seasons and enjoy a more relaxed stay, consider visiting during the off-peak months or ‘shoulder seasons’ of early winter or fall.

For a more comprehensive Orlando travel guide, check out our Orlando Travel Guide.

If you’re still looking for a place to stay during your Orlando holidays, why not book a long-term suit rental? Explore our available rooms here at Crowne Plaza, which are perfect for long-term holiday stays in Orlando.

Top Holiday Events in Orlando

There isn’t a dull time of year here in Orlando. From Christmas to Halloween and back around again, here are a few of the top events during the Orlando holidays that you shouldn’t miss:

Christmas & New Year’s

Looking for the perfect place to spend the most magical time of the year?

Orlando transforms into a winter wonderland packed with unforgettable experiences, festive cheer, and sparkling lights. Whether you’re a theme park fanatic or love cozy strolls through decorated streets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: A magical holiday experience at Magic Kingdom. Enjoy snowfall on Main Street, enchanting stage shows, and meet-and-greets with your favorite Disney characters dressed in their holiday best!
• Universal’s Holiday Parade: See beloved, larger-than-life characters in a festive parade. Watch the sky fill with confetti and music as floats glide by in a wintery spectacle.
• Downtown Orlando’s Holiday Lights: Stroll through the beautifully lit streets and enjoy the magic of Eola Wonderland! Don’t miss the synchronized light show on the lake—it’s a dazzling treat for all ages.
• Fireworks at Lake Eola: Ring in the new year during Orlando’s most popular outdoor celebration! Dance to live music, grab festive bites from local vendors, and countdown with the crowd under a canopy of fireworks.

From festive parades to spectacular fireworks, Orlando’s holiday season is a heartwarming celebration that brings joy to all ages. Come for the lights, stay for the magic, and make memories that’ll sparkle all year long!

Halloween: Spooky Season in Orlando

Get ready for chills, thrills, and all things spooky! Orlando knows how to celebrate Halloween in a big way—whether you’re into haunted houses or candy-filled adventures, the city offers something wickedly fun for everyone.

• Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios: A must-visit for thrill-seekers. Brace yourself for terrifying haunted houses, scare zones crawling with creatures, and spine-tingling shows that will keep you on edge all night long.
• Family-Friendly Trick-or-Treating: Many theme parks, neighborhoods, and local attractions offer safe, family-friendly places for locals and visitors to go trick-or-treating. Join costumed characters, collect sweet treats, and make magical memories in a festive, not-too-scary setting perfect for little goblins and ghouls.

Whether you’re screaming with fright or laughing with delight, Halloween in Orlando is an unforgettable celebration of all things spooky and spectacular.

Don’t forget your costume—and your courage!

Fourth of July: Celebrate Independence Day in Style

From world-class fireworks to lively outdoor festivals, Orlando knows how to throw an unforgettable Fourth of July celebration. Whether you’re at a theme park or enjoying a lakeside view, you’ll find plenty of red, white, and boom all around the city.

• Fireworks at Walt Disney World: Enjoy a jaw-dropping fireworks display at Magic Kingdom. Watch the night sky light up with dazzling colors synchronized to classic Americana music in a heartwarming tribute to freedom and magic.
• Fireworks at Downtown Orlando: Celebrate the 4th with Fireworks at the Fountain, while enjoying live music, food, and family-friendly fun. Bring a blanket, grab a bite from local vendors, and enjoy the festive vibes as the city comes together for an electrifying evening under the stars.

From theme park thrills to community celebrations, Orlando turns the Fourth of July into a spectacular showcase of patriotism, fun, and unforgettable memories.

Let freedom ring—with fireworks!

Easter & Spring Festivals: Spring Into Fun in Orlando

As the city comes alive with color and sunshine, springtime in Orlando brings festive cheer, blooming gardens, and family-friendly celebrations. Whether you’re hunting for Easter eggs or soaking up the beauty of seasonal flowers, there’s no better time to explore.

• Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival: A must-see for flower lovers with stunning floral displays and special events. Stroll through breathtaking gardens, snap photos with vibrant topiaries, and savor seasonal flavors from outdoor kitchens around the World Showcase.
• Local Easter Egg Hunts: Discover some of the most exciting Easter Egg hunts Orlando has to offer! From park-wide hunts to community festivals, kids can enjoy games, prizes, and photo ops with the Easter Bunny in a lively, springtime setting.

Orlando in spring is bursting with beauty, laughter, and celebration—making it the perfect place to enjoy Easter traditions and floral-filled adventures with family and friends.

Hop on over and join the fun!

Where to Stay: Finding the Right Accommodation

When planning your Orlando holidays, you want to make sure to find the perfect place to stay. If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of crowds without feeling removed from the ongoings of the city, Crowne Plaza Orlando Suites Downtown offers the perfect solution. 

Here’s what you can expect from our Downtown Orlando accommodations:

• Convenient Location: In the heart of Downtown Orlando, our hotel offers easy access to theme parks, nightlife, shopping, and dining. Plus, it’s conveniently close to I-4, making it easy to get around the city. 
• Modern Accommodations: With over 50 newly renovated suites, including suites with full kitchens, the hotel is perfect for both short and extended stays in Orlando. Each suite comes with a kitchenette, updated bathroom fixtures, and a small workspace, making it an excellent choice for long-term holiday stays in Orlando. 
• Quiet & Comfortable: At our extended-stay Orlando hotel, you can enjoy peaceful, spacious suites away from the heavy tourist traffic. 
• Perfect for Business Travelers: If you’re visiting for work, you can take advantage of our fully-equipped business center and meeting spaces. 

For more details, check out our Orlando suites and amenities.

See What Our Guests Are Saying!

Discover glowing guest reviews highlighting exceptional service and the friendly, attentive staff that make every stay memorable. See why our guests rave about their experiences at Downtown Orlando Suites:

Holiday Dining & Shopping in Orlando

While Orlando is best known for its iconic theme parks, many visitors overlook the city’s vibrant food and shopping scene, especially during the holiday season.

In fact, this time of year transforms the city into a winter wonderland of culinary delights and unique shopping experiences. From festive feasts at world-class restaurants to exclusive deals at luxury outlets, Orlando offers something for every taste and budget.

Moreover, the holiday décor and seasonal offerings make exploring local shops and dining spots an experience in itself. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or indulging in delicious holiday treats, Orlando is the ultimate destination for unforgettable shopping and dining this season.

Best Holiday Dining Options

Orlando’s holiday dining scene is as magical as the season itself. From festive feasts to cozy dinners with a view, the city serves up unforgettable culinary experiences that are perfect for celebrating with loved ones.

• Enjoy a romantic Christmas dinner in one of Downtown Orlando’s fine dining restaurants.
• Indulge in a Thanksgiving buffet at one of the city’s many hotels and restaurants. 
• Celebrate New Year’s Eve at one of Orlando’s hippest rooftop bars and soak in stunning views of the city.

From festive bites to rooftop toasts, Orlando’s holiday dining scene is a feast for the senses—so come hungry and ready to celebrate in style!

Learn more about Downtown Orlando’s nightlife. 

Where to Shop for Holiday Gifts

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Orlando is home to a wide variety of shopping destinations, from luxurious malls to bargain-filled outlets. Whether you’re checking off your list or treating yourself, there’s something for everyone this holiday season.

• The Mall at Millenia: A luxury shopping destination for all your holiday needs.
• Orlando International Premium Outlets: A bargain shopper’s paradise.
• Disney Springs & Universal CityWalk: Two of the best places to spend the day for dining, shopping, and entertainment. 

Tip: Avoid the crowds by visiting malls during weekday mornings. Get a head start on your shopping, enjoy the quieter atmosphere, and check off your list in style.

Orlando offers a shopping experience that’s as festive as the season itself—whether you’re indulging in luxury, hunting for deals, or soaking in the holiday spirit. Happy shopping!

Tips for a Stress-Free Orlando Holiday

We always recommend planning ahead to make the most of your Orlando holidays. 

• Book Early: Book attractions and accommodations early to secure your spot, especially during peak season!
• Transportation Tips: If you want flexibility, rent a car. Otherwise, Uber/Lyft are easily attainable for access to just about any local attraction.
• Beat the Crowds: Visit theme parks early in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
• Stay in a Suite: Opt for extra space and a kitchenette. Crowne Plaza has some of the most renowned suites for Orlando vacations. 

FAQs

Your Perfect Orlando Holidays Await!

No matter what time of year you decide to head to Orlando, you can expect to find fun and relaxation! With an endless roster of Downtown Orlando events, beautiful weather, and stunning accommodations, it’s hard to think of a better place to spend your time off. 

For a stay that combines comfort and convenience, choose Crowne Plaza Orlando Downtown for your next Orlando holiday. 

Book your suite today and experience the best that Orlando has to offer!