It is hard to believe, but we are officially in the holiday season from now into the new year. Orlando is now decked out with dazzling Christmas light displays. Let's take a look at the best events and things to do this week.
Updated multiple times each week by Nancy DeVault, Dani Meyering, and Kelly Lamano Diaz
Featured Events
Giving an extra shoutout to the following events, which help us to bring this guide to you for FREE!
Blitzen's Pop-Up Bar – An Omni Original
Now through January 4, 2026
Wednesday – Friday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM | Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Eagles Edge at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
Experience Omni’s Signature Christmas-Themed Pop-Up Bar, Where the Cocktails Sleigh. This holiday season, Blitzen's is decking the halls with ornaments, twinkle lights, tinsel, and more. Proud to partner with renowned mixologist, bar owner and author Julie Reiner, who brings her award-winning and exclusive cocktail recipes to Blitzen’s Bars across Omni. Known for co-founding iconic bars like Clover Club, Milady’s and Leyenda in New York City, and as a featured judge on Netflix’s Drink Masters, Julie combines classic techniques with creative innovation.
Christmas at Amber Brooke Farms
Fridays–Sundays, December 5th–21st
Fridays: 4-8 p.m. | Saturdays: 12–8 p.m. | Sundays: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Eustis Location: 36111 County Rd 44A, Eustis, FL 32736
Christmas at Amber Brooke is a heartwarming, small-town holiday experience filled with farm charm and festive magic. Stroll through twinkling lights, visit Santa, enjoy live Christmas music, explore the Snow Silo, and create memories with joyful activities for all ages. Pick fresh strawberries, sunflowers, and zinnias, savor holiday treats, and enjoy classic farm fun. Celebrate the season with cozy moments, family traditions, and nostalgic Christmas cheer at Amber Brooke Farms.
Willett Whiskey Tasting
Monday, December 8, from 6-8 p.m.
The Whiskey, 7563 West Sand Lake Road
Head to The Whiskey for a guided tasting of 4 standout Willett expressions, including rare and small batch releases from one of Kentucky’s most respected family-run distilleries. Taste premium Willett whiskeys, enjoy light bites, and take home a bottle! From mellow vintage bourbon to bold, cask-strength rye, each pour reflects decades of tradition, innovation, and passion for whiskey-making. Expert hosts will walk you through the stories, flavors, and production techniques that make Willett a name to remember. Limited seating—only 30 tickets available; Tickets from $102.
An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee
- Friday, December 12, 2025, 8 p.m.
- Dr. Phillips Center
Multi-Grammy-winning musician David Foster and acclaimed singer-actress Katharine McPhee bring their viral Instagram show to life on December 12 at Dr. Phillips Center. This intimate concert features David’s legendary hits from Chicago, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, and Michael Bublé, plus Kat’s standout songs from American Idol, Smash, and Waitress. Filled with music, stories, and favorites they love to perform. Get tickets at drphillipscenter.org.
Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Hoedown
Through December 20
Wed – Sun, Matinees at 2pm | Friday / Sat evenings at 7:30 pm
Winter Park Playhouse at Orlando Shakes! 812 E. Rollins St., 32803
Catch the holiday spirit in this hit musical comedy set in Nashville! Four good ‘ole country gals reunite for loads of hilarious hijinks and a barn full of popular holiday classics and country Christmas fun! Tickets $20- $47.
Events This Week Things to Do December 1 – 7, 2025
ICE! Featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™
- Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 7, 2026
- Location: Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee, FL
- Cost: Tickets start at $26
Step into a magical winter wonderland as Gaylord Palms presents ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ for the first time ever. Marvel at over 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, including a 32-foot-long scene straight from the beloved classic. Guests can meet Santa and Rudolph, explore whimsical photo ops, and even step inside the world of the misfit toys. This dazzling holiday tradition is perfect for families and anyone ready to embrace the season’s frosty cheer.
Illuminate at Aquatica
- Date: Select nights November 8, 2025 – January 31, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (last entry 9:15 p.m.)
- Location: Aquatica Orlando
- Cost: Separately ticketed event, $25 – $30
Illuminate transforms Aquatica into a glowing nighttime walk-through with towering lantern displays, themed zones inspired by water and nature, festive bites, s’mores by the fire, and specialty bars offering both cocktails and mocktails. It’s a relaxed, dry-walk holiday experience with plenty of space to stroll, take photos, and soak in the lights.
Orlando Vintage 30th Anniversary Celebration
- Date: Friday, December 5, 2025, 7pm
- Location: 500 Formosa Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
- Cost: FREE admission
Join the party, celebrating 30 years of Orlando Vintage! Enjoy bites, cocktails, vintage sale, and vinyl spinning.
Krampus Haunt
- Dates: Fridays through Sundays, December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 2025, 5-10pm
- Location: Krush Brau Park Portal Immersion Center, 2198 4 Winds Boulevard, Kissimmee, FL 34746
- Cost: Starting at $4.85
As you enter the Krampus Haunt, you’ll be enveloped in a chilling, dimly lit maze enhanced by eerie light effects and a bone‑chilling soundscape that set the stage for an unforgettable scare. Navigate the labyrinth as the undead emerge from the shadows to test your bravery before you ultimately confront the horned beast himself. For those who prefer their frights at a safe distance, admission also includes access to the Krampus Museum — a unique exhibit that explores the legend and lore behind this terrifying holiday figure.
Nona Christmas Fiesta
- Dates: December 6, 2025, 11am-9:30pm
- Location: Nona Adventure Park, 14086 Centerline Dr, Orlando, FL 32827
- Cost: FREE
Visit Nona Adventure Park for a full day of holiday fun: music, rich food, and all the festive vibes. Enjoy the holiday market & car show from 11 am-5 pm, karaoke from 4:30-6:30 pm, and a live DJ and dance party from 6:30-9:30 pm. Bring your friends, grab some bites, and get ready to dance the night away.
Barbie Sports Club Truck Tour
- Dates: December 6, 2025, 10am-7pm
- Location: Waterford Lakes Town Center, 413 Alafaya Trl N, Orlando, FL 32828
- Cost: FREE admission
The Barbie Truck Tour is back in Orlando, this time with a Barbie Sports Club theme! Visit the Waterford Lakes Town Center between Macy’s and T.J. Maxx to find your favorite Barbie Sports Club Tour merch.
Next Week: Things to Do December 8 – 15, 2025
Make & Take: Natural Dyes Workshop
- Date: Monday, December 8, 2025, 5-6pm
- Location: 4Roots Farm Campus – Education Building, 1101 N. John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32804
- Cost: $25 per person
During this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to transform flowers, herbs, vegetables, and other natural materials into beautiful, plant-based dyes, then use them to personalize your choice of a scrunchie, 4Roots-branded tote bag, and more! Explore different tie-dye techniques, and walk away with your own naturally dyed creations. All materials and supplies are included. All ages are welcome. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Stocking Stuffer Dinner Show
- Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Showtimes at 6pm & 8pm
- Location: Maxine's On Shine, 337 N Shine Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: $75 per person
This nonstop romantic comedy is full of surprises and guaranteed to keep you laughing all night long. Paired with an award-winning three-course meal — including an appetizer, entrée, and dessert — at Orlando’s Michelin-recommended Best Downtown Restaurant, this is the ultimate holiday date night.
Sketchbook Club
- Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 6-9pm
- Location: The Neighbors Orlando, 3201 Corrine Dr, Suite 201, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE
Join this self-led event to doodle whatever your heart desires. There are extra sketchbooks and fun stickers, as well as extra materials to borrow. All ages welcome.
Pitch-a-Friend
- Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 7pm
- Location: Live! at the Pointe Orlando 9101 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
- Cost: FREE
Join for an evening of fun, connections, and laughter! Watch creative, feel-good presentations where friends pitch amazing singles to the crowd. You'll also have time to mingle, play games, and meet new people. Whether you're single, supporting a friend, or just curious about the event, there's something for everyone—even if you don't know anyone being pitched.
Aperitivo Hour: An Evening of Olive Oil & Connection
- Date: Thursday, December 11, 2025, 6-7:30pm
- Location: The courtyard at The Ancient Olive, 324 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
- Cost: $72 per person
Journey through four distinctive olive oils, each thoughtfully paired with aperitivo-style bites that highlight its unique character. Discover pairing secrets, and connect with others who share a love for good food. Bringing your own wine or favorite drink to enjoy during the experience is encouraged.
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s Holiday Pops
- Date: Friday, December 12, 2025, 7pm
- Location: Della Phillips Pavilion in The Grove Park at The Packing District
- Cost: FREE
Celebrate the holiday season with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s Holiday Pops in the Packing District. This FREE, festive performance features holiday classics and food trucks, perfect for a fun date night. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, enjoy live music, and soak in the seasonal magic. Stop by the Great Southern Box Co. Food Hall for holiday drinks and Christmas decorations before or after the concert. Free parking will be available at the Leonard & Marjorie Williams Family YMCA.
Holly Jolly Rock Fest Music Festival
- Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 2-10pm
- Location: Lake Mary Pub & Tiki Bar, 119 W Crystal Lake Ave, Lake Mary, FL 32746
- Cost: FREE
Enjoy 7 incredible music acts, including: POZO, Scotty P Rock Star, Christian Summer, Talon, Blackwater Goldrush, Bombface, and Daniel Irizarry. Plus, food trucks, holiday vendor fair, pictures with Santa, and more!
Jane Austen Yuletide Ball
- Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 7-10pm
- Location: First Congregational Church of Winter Park, 225 S Interlachen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
- Cost: $40
Dress up in your Regency best and enjoy a festive evening of dancing, mocktails, small bites, books, and an elegant photo op to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday! Bring a few books if you'd like to participate in the Book Swap as well. Whether you’re a lifelong Austen enthusiast or simply longing for an evening of elegance and good company, the Yuletide Ball promises to be a night to remember.
Weekly Ongoing Orlando Events
Pop Up by Quantum Leap Winery
- Dates: November 19, 2025 – January 2026, starting at 11:30am
- Location: 3201 East End Market, Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE Admission
This favorite urban winery & cider maker is popping up for the holidays at East End Market! Join for Quantum Leap wines, Pedaler's hard cider, curated food pairings, and lots of seasonal cheer. They'll have select cheeses & Fromageables cheese snacking boxes from Tonda at @LaFemmedufromage, a rotating series of seasonal fresh soups by Chef Jamie McFadden Cuisiniers Catering, the Famous Broccoli Salad from George’s Cafe, as well as hummus, chips and mixes from Hummus Bar.
Happy Hour + Art @TheFalconBar
- Dates: Mondays from 6:30-10pm
- Location: The Falcon Bar & Gallery, 819 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801
- Cost: FREE Admission
Local vibes. Awesome people. Enjoy Happy Hour adult libations while viewing local art at one of Orlando’s favorite local spots for creatives!
AC Orlando Downtown Express Lunch
- Dates: Lunch served Tuesday-Friday 11am-3pm
- Location: 333 S. Garland Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
- Cost: $18
Introducing AC Hotel's new Express Lunch—crafted for those on the go but unwilling to compromise on flavor. For just $18, enjoy a chef-inspired entrée and a non-alcoholic beverage, all guaranteed to be served within 20 minutes of ordering. Perfect for a power lunch or a quick catch-up, it's speed without sacrifice. Available Tuesday-Friday—because great taste shouldn't have to wait.
Tasty Takeover in The Milk District
- Dates: Tuesdays from 6:30-10pm
- Location: The Milk District – E. Robinson St
- Cost: FREE Admission
THE food truck block party in Orlando! Find it in The Milk District every Tuesday night behind the bars and shops of E. Robinson St.
Game & Hobby Night at The Burrow
- Dates: Every Tuesday, 5pm – 8pm
- Location: The Burrow Cafe & Play, Mills area
Bring along your favorite game, knitting project, book, or enjoy one of the games available at The Burrow. Come relax, be playful, and enjoy your favorite hobby or discover a new one. Free to attend and drink specials available.
Luminary Market
- Date: First Wednesday of every month, 5:30-9pm
- Location: Luminary Green Park in Creative Village
Explore 20-25 local vendors featuring unique, curated goods and support our growing community of residents, students, and workers. Stick around after shopping for KaleidoScope 360°, an outdoor movie series where you can enjoy family-friendly films under the stars! Showtime is at 7pm.
Wine Wednesdays at NORMAN’S Orlando
- Dates: Wednesdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Location: 7924 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando, FL 32819
Head to NORMAN’s on Wednesdays for summer specials featuring 30% off select bottles of wine, curated by their Sommelier! Plus, try their new “Flights & Bites” offering hand-picked Red, White, and Sparkling Wines paired to complement the Chef-curated Bites Menu. You can also book a 15-minute tasting session with our Sommelier to learn about wines, regions, and pairing suggestions (complimentary tastings included). Can’t go on a Wednesday? NORMAN’S offers daily Happy Hour from 5-7 p.m. with dinner available until 10 p.m.
Cirque du Soleil “Drawn to Life”
- Dates: Wednesdays – Sundays
- Location: Cirque du Soleil Orlando, 1478 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Performances of “Drawn to Life” take place on most nights at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Go for the later show if you prefer to potentially have less kids in attendance. Additionally, it will give you more time to enjoy Disney Springs before the show.
Late Night Thursdays
- Dates: Thursdays, 5pm – 8pm
- Location: Leu Gardens
- Cost: $15 per adult, $10 per child
Bring a picnic & seating, sip some spirits, or take a stroll through the gardens and discover the amazing ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN exhibit. Included with general admission. Rain or shine.
Pottery Night
- Date: One Thursday Every Month, from 6:30-8 p.m.
- Location: 8602 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Discover the magic of pottery in this 2-hour group session at the Castle Hotel! Guided by a skilled instructor, you’ll master the basics of throwing clay on the pottery wheel and create your very own unique piece. From shaping the clay to glazing for a polished finish, this experience offers hands-on fun from start to finish.
Piano Bar Show at Jewel
- Dates: Friday and Saturday Nights
- Location: Jewel Orlando
- Cost: FREE admission with password
Dueling Piano players take the stage for a fun night of song requests and sing-alongs! Call (321) 444-5306 after 5pm to get your password for speakeasy entry.
2nd Fridays at Flamingo Crossings Town Center: Holiday Edition
- Dates: Second Friday of every month, from 6-9 p.m.
- Location: Flamingo Crossings Town Center, 153 Sugar Belle Dr, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (closest to Lime Fresh Mexican Grill)
- Cost: FREE admission
Holiday Edition is back on December 12th! Save the date and share it with your friends. This event will feature snow on Main Street, brand-new holiday lighting, holiday crafts & ornament making, decorating the community tree, DJ Bubbles playing holiday classics, yard games, samples, and giveaways. Plus, grab a bite and a beverage from the many restaurants on-site.
Makers Market at Forward/Slash Distillery
- Date: The Last Saturday of Every Month, from 2-6 p.m.
- Location: 650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Support your local Orlando makers at Forward/Slash Distillery’s monthly Makers Market. Hosted by Orlando Local Makers, this event features the best of vendors who craft and make various items, goods, trinkets, and gifts. Food will be served by Bien Fuego BBQ for some light bites while you shop. Free to attend!
Weekends at the Winery
- Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, 10am – 5pm (Sat) & 11am – 5pm (Sun)
- Location: Lakeridge Winery
- Cost: FREE admission
Head to this Central Florida winery's expansive vineyard green each weekend for delicious food, live entertainment, complimentary wine tastings/tours, and Lakeridge wines by the glass at the outdoor bar. Plus, delicious food at the Food Pavilion, as well as live music all weekend long.
Check out multiple Farmers' Markets around Orlando every weekend.
Saturday Exhibition Highlights Docent-Led Tour
- Dates: Every Saturday, 1pm & 3pm
- Location: Rollins Museum of Art
- Cost: FREE
Docent-led tours of highlighted works from the season’s exhibitions at the Rollins Museum of Art.
Dinks & Drinks
- Dates: Every Saturday, 6:30-9:30pm
- Location: ClearOne Sports Centre, 4141 N. John Young Parkway, Suite 3, Orlando
- Cost: $20 per person
Open courts for casual drop-in play. Includes 1 free drink (Beer, High Noon, or Soda). Paddle rentals are available for $5. Tennis shoes required. Different music theme each week. No partner? No experience? No problem. This is the perfect night to bring a friend, meet new people, or just vibe with the community.
Read more: Places to Play Pickleball in Orlando
Tai Chi in the Garden
- Dates: Every Saturday through 2025, 10:30am – 11:30am
- Location: Mead Botanical Garden, 1300 S. Denning Dr, Winter Park
- Cost: $15
A gentle exercise program that is composed of slow deliberate movements, meditation, and deep breathing to enhance health and well-being.
Later in December
Ho Ho Ho Holiday Party
- Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 6pm
- Location: Celebration Brewing Co., 1601 Future Way, Celebration, FL 34747
- Cost: FREE admission
Celebrate a night filled with new friends, brews, tasty eats, holiday bingo, and a gift exchange! The gift exchange is optional, with a maximum gift value of $25. Dress code is casual/festive. RSVP online.
Stocking Stuffer Dinner Show
- Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2025, Showtimes at 6pm & 8pm
- Location: Maxine's On Shine, 337 N Shine Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: $75 per person
This nonstop romantic comedy is full of surprises and guaranteed to keep you laughing all night long. Paired with an award-winning three-course meal — including an appetizer, entrée, and dessert — at Orlando’s Michelin-recommended Best Downtown Restaurant, this is the ultimate holiday date night.
Intelligent Singles Mixer
- Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025, 7-10pm
- Location: The Capital Grille, 9101 International Drive, Suite 1000, Orlando, FL 32819
- Cost: $49.68
Step into an evening of possibility, connection, and the excitement of meeting someone who just might become a new highlight in your life. Whether you leave with new friends, a promising romantic spark, or simply a great evening out, this mixer promises to spark something new.
Sanford Holiday Grinch Fest
- Date: Friday, December 19, 2025, 4-9pm
- Location: Henry’s Depot Food Hall, 212 W First St, Sanford, FL 32771
- Cost: FREE admission
Join Henry’s Depot for a festive evening of holiday fun at the Holiday Grinch Fest. Browse local artisan vendors, enjoy great food from the food hall, sip drink specials, and soak in the cheer as Sanford turns a little bit Grinchy for the night. A lively, family-friendly way to celebrate the season.
Stealing Christmas: An Emo Grinch Party
- Date: Friday, December 19, 2025, 8pm
- Location: Cocktails & Screams, 39 West Pine Street, Orlando, Florida 32801
- Cost: $10 cover, FREE entry for theme park employees
‘Twas the week before Christmas, and they felt an itch to bring you an emo night all about the Grinch. As part of the Tinsel & Terror Christmas pop-up, enjoy party DJ sets from @theamazingdaxon and friends, pop-punk Christmas classics, and performances from @ifimluckyfl, playing your favorites live and loud. Punk Christmas looks, emo Whoville couture, and Grinch costumes are all encouraged.
Holiday Afternoon Tea
- Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025, Seatings at 10am & 12:30pm
- Location: Infusion Tea, 1600 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
- Cost: Starting at $49 per person (+$5 to make it gluten free + vegan, +$12 for bottomless mimosas dine-in only)
Sip on a whole pot of tea: Spiced Christmas Black, Cinnamon Bun Herbal, or a pitcher of iced Hibiscus Berry if you’re feeling Florida festive. Enjoy fresh-baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, Sugar Plum Fairy Cake, a lineup of finger sandwiches, plus petit fours and French macarons. Reserve your spot online.
Very Merry Pop-Up Market
- Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025, 12-4pm
- Location: Great Southern Box Company, 2105 N Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32804
- Cost: FREE admission
Still need those last-minute Christmas gifts? Shop local vendors for unique gifts, bring the kids to have a blast at the kids zone, enjoy photo ops, plus raffles and more holiday surprises. Come sip, shop, and finish your Christmas shopping.
Mellow Market: Holiday Edition
- Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025, 12-5pm
- Location: The Owl's Attic, 3106 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE admission
Get the holly jolly season started! Here's another chance to get all those last minute gifts checked off your list, while directly supporting your community.
The Upside Down: 80s Night
- Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025, 8pm
- Location: House of Blues, 1490 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
- Cost: Ticket prices vary
Join the party at the House of Blues, playing the best of the 80s, Stranger Things, and soundtrack anthems. Ages 18+.
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- New Restaurants and Experiences in Orlando
St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival
- Dates:
- Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 Tapas, Wine & Spirits
- Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 Cava Reception & Wine Pairing Dinner
- Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 Grand Tasting
- Location: Flagler College
- Cost: Tickets start at $100
The St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of Spanish wine, cuisine, and culture, honoring the city’s deep Spanish roots. Guests enjoy fine wines, authentic flavors, and live entertainment while supporting Flagler College Hospitality & Tourism Management students. All proceeds directly fund scholarships, study-abroad programs, and professional development opportunities.
Thursday night features Spanish-inspired cuisine and beverages in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Friday night includes an evening of fine dining and music in the exclusive Ponce de Leon Hall Flagler Room and Solarium. Meanwhile, guests at Saturday's Grand Tasting will enjoy sampling 100+ Spanish wines set against the historic backdrop of Flagler College’s Markland House. New for 2026: Add an instructor-led wine seminar to your Grand Tasting ticket for an additional fee.
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