Top Things to Do in Orlando This Holiday December 12–14

ByKarl Moranette
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Looking for festive, family-friendly fun in Orlando that doesn’t involve theme parks? This guide highlights the Top Things to Do in Orlando this Holiday December 12–14, with verified dates, official links, and easy-to-read “Where & When” sections. Each activity is perfect for kids and adults alike, and the descriptions are clear and simple.

1. Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando
When: Dec 12–14, evening hours
Walk through glowing tunnels, giant holiday displays, and magical snowfall effects. Children will enjoy the interactive lights and music, while parents can admire the beautifully decorated gardens. It’s a wonderful way to experience Orlando’s festive season in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Drone shot of a nighttime Christmas boat parade on a dark lake, featuring a line of pontoon boats decorated with bright, colorful holiday lights and reflections shimmering on the water.
A stunning, cinematic hyperrealistic drone view of the annual Christmas Boat Parade on Lake Virginia, Winter Park. The festive boats, adorned with dazzling lights, create a vibrant trail of reflections across the dark water.

2. Winter Park Holiday Boat Parade

Where: Lake Virginia, Winter Park
When: Sat, Dec 13 at dusk
Bring blankets and snacks to watch dozens of decorated boats cruise across the lake. The holiday parade is filled with music and lights, and families can view it from multiple public spots along the shore. It’s a festive tradition that everyone can enjoy.

3. The Nutcracker at Dr. Phillips Center

Where: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando
When: Dec 12–14, showtimes vary
Experience the classic ballet with colorful costumes, dancing snowflakes, and lively music. The performance is designed to be engaging for children, making it a perfect introduction to live theater during the holidays.

A festive holiday train covered in warm white and colored lights carries passengers along a concrete path at night. Palm trees wrapped in lights line the walkway, and the illuminated Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain sprays water in Lake Eola in the background.
Passengers enjoy a ride on the brilliantly lit holiday train at Orlando’s Lake Eola Park, with the iconic fountain glowing in the background during the festive season.

4. Holiday Train at Lake Eola Park

Where: Lake Eola Park, Downtown Orlando
When: Dec 12–14, evening rides
Take a ride on the cheerful holiday train and stroll through the illuminated park. Lights, vendors, and seasonal music create a joyful atmosphere that young children especially love. It’s an easy and quick way to enjoy downtown Orlando’s holiday spirit.

5. A Merry Winter Garden Light Show

Where: Downtown Winter Garden
When: Dec 12–14, evening
Historic Downtown Winter Garden lights up with synchronized displays, live performers, and street music. Families can wander through the downtown area and enjoy the festive decorations while browsing local vendors.

6. Gingerbread House Workshop at SOBO Art Gallery

Where: SOBO Art Gallery, Winter Garden
When: Sat, Dec 13
Families can decorate and build gingerbread houses together. The workshop encourages creativity, and children will have a finished masterpiece to take home as a holiday keepsake. Registration is recommended as spots fill quickly.

7. Navidades en Gateway – Christmas in Gateway

Where: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1515 South Semoran Blvd, Orlando
When: Sat, Dec 13, 2025 — daytime event (per city listing)
This is a family‑friendly holiday gathering with live entertainment, a kids’ zone, arts & crafts, food and drinks, and photos with Santa. It seems like a great, non-theme-park, community‑oriented holiday activity for families.

8. Winter Park Old-Fashioned Christmas Cruise

Where: Departing from Winter Park docks
When: Select nights including Dec 12–14
Take a scenic boat cruise through Winter Park’s canals and past holiday-lit lakefront homes. Hot chocolate and carols add to the festive atmosphere, making it a unique way to celebrate the season with children. Reservations are recommended.

9. Holiday Stroll & Train at Winter Park Village

Where: Winter Park Village, Winter Park
When: Dec 12–14, evening hours
Families can enjoy the festive lights throughout the village, meet Santa, and ride a miniature holiday train. Seasonal music, decorations, and a cozy atmosphere make it a fun outing for kids of all ages.

A vibrant, illuminated Art Nouveau stained-glass panel featuring a crown and white lilies glows intensely at night, framed by the dark silhouettes of onlookers standing in the foreground.
A mesmerizing display of light and color: crowds gather in the darkness to admire an intricate stained-glass installation glowing with golden warmth against the night sky.

10. Holiday Friday Nights at the Morse Museum

Where: Morse Museum, Winter Park
When: Fri, Dec 12
Extended museum hours allow families to enjoy live music, Tiffany window displays, and seasonal programming. This quiet and beautiful setting is ideal for a calm, cultural holiday experience.

The Top Things to Do in Orlando December 12–14 provide plenty of festive, family-friendly activities outside the theme parks. From sparkling lights and hands-on workshops to cozy boat cruises and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Use the “Where & When” sections to plan your visit and enjoy a memorable holiday week in Orlando. To check out more of our blog. Visit our homepage.

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