The holiday season in Orlando is brighter than ever with the return of Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens! Running on select nights from November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025, this immersive event features breathtaking light displays, including a shimmering 30’ tall golden tree, gorgeous displays, and relaxing moments. After experiencing this incredible event myself, I’ve put together some helpful tips to make your visit smooth and memorable.
Want more festive date ideas? Check out 25 Christmas Events in Orlando!
Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens 2024
Top tips:
- Book early: Secure your preferred date and time, especially for weekends.
- Arrive early: Plan to get there 30-45 minutes ahead for parking and check-in.
- Dress for the weather: Wear closed-toe shoes for comfort.
- Plan food options: On-site holiday treats are tasty, but not a full meal
- Avoid crowds: Visit on weekdays or early in the season for a quieter experience.
Book tickets early—this event is popular, and weekend slots sell out quickly. Tickets start at $22 for adults on weekdays and $28 on weekends, while children (ages 3-13) start at $19. Kids under 3 are free, but still, plan ahead to secure your preferred date and time.
Comfort and Joy
Arrive early. Leu Gardens provides ample parking, but it fills up fast, especially during busy nights. Arriving 30-45 minutes early not only ensures you’ll find a good parking spot but also gives you time to check in, use the restroom, and avoid feeling rushed.
Dress comfortably for the weather. Florida’s winter evenings can be unpredictable—think light layers. Closed-toe shoes are a must, as the 3/4-mile path can be uneven in spots. Multiple places along the trail are dimly lit, so if anyone has trouble with dark places or uneven ground consider bringing a flashlight or use the light on your phone.
There are multiple benches throughout the gardens, so take your time and sit for a bit to enjoy the festive atmosphere. There are restrooms in the gardens as well, but the Welcome Center where you first arrive has the largest restrooms, and there is a water bottle refill station there. I suggest making use of the Welcome Center before embarking on the Dazzling Nights trail.
There are fifteen “activations” or sections of Dazzling Nights that you'll make your way to as you follow the one-way path.
- Holiday Wishes
- Brilliance
- Crystal Kingdom
- Luminary Trail
- Radiant Beams
- Through the Stars
- Awe in the Air
- Sparkling Splendor
- Holly Jolly
- Glowing Forest
- The Garden of Reflection
- Shimmering Square
- Down the Chimney (inflatable play area)
- Swans and Sparkles
- Snowman Disco Escape (labyrinth)
Without a doubt, Dazzling Nights is one of the best places to see Christmas lights in Orlando.
Snacks and Beverages
Plan for food and drinks. While there are food and drink booths at multiple spots throughout the trail, offerings are limited to snacks and drinks – nothing that makes for a hearty meal. The holiday-themed treats and hot cocoa—are perfect for adding to the festive spirit!
Adult beverages are also available. Budget about $10 per beverage and $7-$10 per snack.
Capture the magic – photo tips
Dazzling Nights is filled with Instagram-worthy spots, from the glowing beacons to the massive golden tree. Bring a fully charged phone or camera, and a tripod if you have one.
There are multiple tunnels and archways, which get crowded as people stop for photos. Rather than waiting at the start of the archway or tunnel, walk through it to the end, then turn around and snap your photo without the line.
Crowds and Walking
Be mindful of crowds. The event is most crowded on weekends and closer to Christmas. If you prefer a quieter experience, opt for a weekday visit early in the season.
Check for accessibility. The path is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, but some areas may be darker or slightly uneven. Bring a flashlight or use your phone’s light for extra visibility.
Extend the fun by turning your evening into a full holiday outing. Explore other holiday activities in Orlando, or now that you've worked up a bit of a thirst, head to one of the many Christmas Pop-Up Bars in town.
Parking and Location
Choose from on-site parking, valet services, or complimentary off-site parking with shuttle service. On-site parking passes are available for $15, while valet parking is offered at $30. The off-site parking is located at AdventHealth Imaging Center Innovation Tower Parking Garage, with complimentary ADA-compliant shuttles transporting guests to Leu Gardens.
It's recommended to arrive 30 minutes before your ticket entry time for on-site parking and 45 minutes early if using the off-site option to ensure timely arrival.
Off-site parking:
AdventHealth Imaging Center Innovation Tower Parking Garage
266 E Rollins St, Orlando FL 32804
Floors 4-8 with a convenient elevator to the ground and Shuttle
Leu Gardens
1920 North Forest Avenue
Orlando, FL 32803
P.S. – Enjoy the music of the evening at dazzlingorlando.com/music – the “Melodies of Love” playlist is especially romantic.