Holiday Events

MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY

Through Dec. 21: Make some very merry memories in the Magic Kingdom amid the snow and splendor of the holidays. Select nights. Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. 407-934-7639. disneyworld.disney.go.com

DISNEY JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS

Through Dec. 22: Holiday cheer goes Hollywood with special shows as well as themed entertainment, character encounters, special merch and tasty treats. Select nights. 7:30 p.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 351 S. Studio Drive, Lake Buena Vista. 407- 939-5277. disneyworld.disney.go.com

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS—LIVE ON STAGE

Through Dec. 23: This faithful stage adaptation celebrates the timeless TV classic as Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang seek the true meaning of Christmas. Visit website for times. Orlando Family Stage, 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. 407-896-7365. orlandofamilystage.com

ORLANDO SHAKES’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Through Dec. 24: This annual tradition features favorite carols, awe-inspiring special effects and the timeless tale of redemption for the heart and soul of Ebenezer Scrooge. Visit website for times. Orlando Shakes, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. 407-447-1700. orlandoshakes.org

SANTA’S WORKSHOP EXPERIENCE 

Through Dec. 24: ICON Park turns into a sparkling holiday escape filled with cheerful décor and plenty of Christmas magic. The popular Santa’s Workshop Experience has been a holiday tradition since 2002. Register online and receive a complimentary ride on the Carousel on the Promenade for all children under 13. ICON Park Orlando, 8375 International Drive, Orlando. santaworkshopexperience.com

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE HOLIDAYS

Through Dec. 30: This yuletide extravaganza in the World Showcase offers merry experiences, including the Holiday Cookie Stroll and the Candlelight Processional. EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. 407-939-5277. disneyworld.disney.go.com

CELEBRATION NOW SNOWING NIGHTLY

Through Dec. 31: The town of Celebration hosts free holiday festivities nightly in its downtown area. Snow falls at set times as carolers sing holiday favorites. Paid activities include photos with Santa, a train ride and synthetic ice skating. Celebration Town Center, 610 Sycamore St., Celebration. 407-566-4007. celebrationtowncenter.com

DAZZLING NIGHTS AT LEU GARDENS

Through Jan. 4: Immerse yourself in the holidays with awe-inspiring light experiences. This family event features a 50-foot star; a Holiday Village where you can shop, sip and eat; an 80-foot-long homage to stained glass; snowball fights with elves and more. Choose dates and entry times online. Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. dazzlingorlando.com

HOLIDAY BLOOMS

Through Jan. 4: Thousands of colorful poinsettias and other seasonal flowers and foliage burst with yuletide spirit along the paths of the garden’s 50 acres. Included with daytime admission. Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2620. leugardens.org

HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

Through Jan 4: Grab your Muggle friends and prepare for bedazzling magic as the parks are transformed for the holidays. Indulge in the spirit of the season with special treats and activities. Included with park admission. Universal Orlando Resort, 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando. 407-363-8000. universalorlando.com

SEAWORLD CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Through Jan. 5: Create traditions and unforgettable memories in this winter wonderland sparkling with holiday lights and snow flurries. Indulge in seasonal shopping, a telling of Jesus’ birth, specialty treats and beverages, ice skating, parades and more. Included with park admission. SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando. 407-545-5550. seaworld.com

CHRISTMAS AT GAYLORD PALMS

Through Jan. 7: The Gaylord Palms is a Christmas destination for locals and visitors alike, with festive decorations, fun activities, live shows, holiday treats, merchandise and more. This year the ICE! show features Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000. christmasatgaylordpalms.marriott.com

SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford. Building J-109. 407-708-2506. seminolestate.edu

Dec. 2: The Symphonic/Community Band takes to the stage for the school’s Holiday Band Concert. 7:30 p.m. Lake Mary High School, 655 Longwood Lake Mary Road.

Dec. 9: Join the Seminole State choirs for an evening of traditional and modern seasonal favorites. 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

STETSON UNIVERSITY CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT

Dec. 3-6: Serene and inspiring candlelight performances of classical favorites. Wednesday-Friday at Stetson University School of Music, Lee Chapel, 421 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand. Saturday at First United Methodist Church of Orlando, 142 E. Jackson St. All performances at 7:30 p.m. 386-822-8950. stetson.edu

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK

Dec. 4: The Morse Museum and the city of Winter Park present the 47th annual celebration of the season with the lighting of six leaded-glass Tiffany windows and a performance by the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble. Central Park, near Garfield and Park avenues. 6:15-8:30 p.m. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-645-5311. morsemuseum.org

CELEBRATE THE SEASON

Dec. 4-5: Celebrate the magic of the season with the largest symphony orchestra in the country and members of the Community Choir. 7:30 p.m. Central Florida Community Arts, 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando. 407-937-1800. cfcarts.com. Performance at Northland Church, 522 Dog Track Road, Longwood.

OVIEDO HOLIDAY EVENTS

Join your neighbors at the park for the city’s annual holiday extravaganza featuring fun activities for the whole family. Center Lake Park, 299 Center Lake Lane. 407-971-5590. cityofoviedo.net

Dec. 4: Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5 p.m.

Dec. 6: Annual Holiday Parade, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13: Winterfest Holiday Festival, noon-5 p.m.

APOPKA HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

From a tree lighting ceremony at Kit Land Nelson Park to the 49th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade, Apopka’s Christmas traditions emphasize the joy of the season. 407-703-1700. apopka.gov

Dec. 5: Apopka Tree Lighting, with holiday music, photos with Santa, kids’ activities, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13: The Foliage Sertoma Club of Apopka’s 49th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade,  10 a.m.

LIGHT UP WINTER GARDEN

‘Tis the season for all that is jolly and bursting with Christmas spirit and Winter Garden has much to share throughout the month. Look for A Merry Winter Garden Light Show and horse-drawn carriage tours on select evenings. 407-656-4111. cwgdn.com

Dec. 5: Light Up Winter Garden tree- and street-lighting ceremony, 6 p.m.

Dec. 5-Jan. 4: Main Street Holiday Stroll, daily.

Dec. 6: Golf Cart Parade, West Plant Street, 6 p.m.

Dec. 6: Holiday Night Market, Downtown Pavilion, 4-8 p.m.

Dec. 6: Winter Garden Christmas Parade, South Dillard Street, 10 a.m

WINTER PARK FESTIVITIES

The city of Winter Park partners with the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce to transform Park Avenue into a pedestrian-friendly winter wonderland with music, food and festivities. 407-644-8281. winterpark.org

Dec. 5: Winter on the Avenue kicks off the holiday season with a tree-lighting ceremony, a menorah lighting, strolling carolers, jazz on Park Avenue, Popcorn Flicks in the Park, announcement of art contest winners and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus. 5-9 p.m.

Dec. 6: More than 80 organizations will be rolling in the 73rd  Annual Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade, the oldest holiday parade in Central Florida. 9-10:30 a.m.

ONE MAN: A CHRISTMAS CAROL!

Dec. 5-7: As the title suggests, this is a production with one man playing all 37 characters in this retelling of the story of Scrooge. Friday, Saturday 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 5 p.m. Imagine Performing Arts Center, 1220 Oviedo Mall Blvd., Oviedo. 407-986-0494. imagineperformingartscenter.org

MOUNT DORA HOLIDAY EVENTS

This quaint town loves the Christmas season and wants to share the joy. The whole month is packed with festivities and events, including a Christmas parade, lighted boat parade, a Santa tour of neighborhoods, snow in Donnelly Park, a Christmas market and more. 352-735-7100. ci.mountdora.fl.us and mountdora.com

Dec. 5: Christmas Walk at Sunset Park, 6 p.m.

Dec. 6: Christmas Parade at Donnelly Street, 10 a.m.

Dec. 6: Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 13: Children’s Christmas Snow in the Park, 3-9 p.m.

Dec. 13-14: Holiday Tour of Homes, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Celebration, 9 p.m.-midnight

SANFORD HOLIDAY EVENTS

The city of Sanford lights up downtown for the holidays with a host of special activities for all ages. 407-688-5120. sanfordfl.gov

Dec. 5: Light up Sanford Tree Lighting Ceremony, Magnolia Square, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13: Holiday Parade of Lights, 6 p.m.

ORLANDO BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 5-24: Artistic Director Jorden Morris brings stunning sets, choreography, lighting and costumes to the stage to tell this sweet and whimsical tale of little Clara and a life-sized Nutcracker who embark on a magical journey. Visit website for times. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS’ LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS

Dec. 6: Cranes Roost Park dresses up for the holidays with displays featuring 200,000 lights and a 60-foot tree decorated with thousands of ornaments. Visit with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus amid the holiday fountain show, choreographed fireworks, live music and more. 5-9 p.m. 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs. 407-571-8863. altamonte.org

AVALON AGLOW

Dec. 6: Join this picturesque neighborhood for a public celebration featuring a heartwarming holiday parade, food trucks, bounce park, community performances and fireworks. 3-9 p.m. 3680 Avalon Park East Blvd., Orlando. 407-658-6565. avalonparkorlando.com

TIS THE SEASON

Dec. 6: Standing Ovation Talent Group, a nonprofit that teaches local youths healthy self-esteem through dance, presents an evening of holiday cheer with a program of family-friendly comedy, dance routines, acting and singing. 6:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR & THE MAGICAL MARKETPLACE

Dec. 6-7: The self-guided Celebration Holiday Home Tour features seasonally decorated homes to inspire that holiday spirit. A stop at The Magical Marketplace, where holiday décor and baskets are on offer, is included. Saturday noon-7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1175 Celebration Ave. 407-566-1234. celebrationfoundation.org

SPACE COAST BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 6-7: The Brevard Symphony Orchestra performs the thrilling score. The sets and costumes come from St. Petersburg, Russia, and the cast is a mix of international principals and local dancers. Saturday 2 & 7 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. King Center for the Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-242-2219. kingcenter.com

STONE DANCE ACADEMY’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 6-7: On a snowy Christmas Eve, young Clara and her Nutcracker doll take a magical journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Saturday 1 & 6 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

CITY OF ORLANDO CELEBRATIONS

One of Orlando’s most-loved events is the lighting of the city’s six-story tree featuring 88,000 lights. From then on, the Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree lights up to synchronized music five times each evening. Lake Eola Park, 195 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2121. orlando.gov

Dec. 6: Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree music and lights show.

Dec. 6-22: Experience a snowfall, weekends from 6:15-9:15 p.m.

Dec. 6-22: Merry Market of local vendors, weekends 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Dec. 7-22: Meet Santa, weekends from 5:30-9 p.m.

HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND

Dec. 6-31: It’s a LEGO lover’s dream holiday with Santa himself and a giant Christmas tree made of LEGO blocks. Special activities include seasonal shows, twinkling lights, holiday treats and a kids’ New Years Eve party at a reasonable hour. On select nights, included with admission. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. 888-690-5346. legoland.com

THE LIMITLESS NUTCRACKER

Dec. 7: This is an adaptive and inclusive reimagining of the holiday classic starring a little girl and a life-size nutcracker. 2 p.m. Imagine Performing Arts Center, 1220 Oviedo Mall Blvd., Oviedo. 407-986-0494. imagineperformingartscenter.org

PHANTASMAGORIA’S ‘A VERY DICKENS CHRISTMAS!’

Dec. 11 & 21: Gather ‘round the hearth with Central Florida’s one and only Victorian performance troupe as it takes a spirited approach to Charles Dickens’ Christmas tales. Thursday 7:30 p.m. at Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info. Sunday 2 & 7 p.m. Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. 386-736-1500. athensdeland.com

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER

Dec. 12-13: The Herdmans are the worst kids ever, so when they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. But it’s what they do next that makes this a touching holiday production about extending kindness to all. Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. Central Florida Community Arts, 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando. 407-937-1800. cfcarts.com. Performance at St. John Church, 1600 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park.

THE NUTTY NUTCRACKER

Dec. 12-13: Company dancers from Xtreme Dance Company stage a high performance version of this holiday classic. All proceeds benefit Base Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation. Friday 6:30 p.m., Saturday noon. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

THE NUTCRACKER

Dec. 13-14: The famed holiday story of a little girl embarking on a magical journey as only a child could. Saturday 2 & 6 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. Imagine Performing Arts Center, 1220 Oviedo Mall Blvd., Oviedo. 407-986-0494. imagineperformingartscenter.org

YULE BE SORRY YOU ASKED

Dec. 13-14: The Narrators join the CFCArts Youth Theatre actors to explore festive traditions than span generations. 3 p.m. Central Florida Community Arts, 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando. 407-937-1800. cfcarts.com. Performance at St. John Church, 1600 S. Orlando Ave., Winter Park.

SANFORD JAZZ ENSEMBLE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Dec. 14: Enjoy Christmas classics with everything from a swing beat to Latin. 3 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

A CHRISTMAS WITH SOUL

Dec. 17: Talented local entertainers backed by a live band perform soulful renditions of Motown-inspired Christmas classics. 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

CHRISTMAS SWING WITH THE GREAT AMERICAN BIG BAND

Dec. 17 & 21: Swing in the season with some of the greatest holiday hits of all time, with a little help from Bing, Rosemary, Cab, Glenn and Benny. Wednesday 2:30 & 7 p.m. Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. 386-736-1500. athensdeland.com. Sunday 3 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

STEALING CHRISTMAS—A GRINCHY TALE

Dec. 22: Dehner Elite Arts’ seasonal showcase features students acting, dancing and singing in the classic tale of how the Grinch’s heart grew three sizes when he learned the true meaning of Christmas. 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.info

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Special Events

ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL—INTO THE WILD

Through Jan. 18: Larger-than-life illuminated lanterns celebrate the culture, art and beauty of Asia’s traditional lantern festivals. Tickets and entry times online. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford. 407-323-4450. centralfloridazoo.org

FLOREX 2025 FLORIDA STAMP SHOW

Dec. 5-6: This World Series of Philately show presents 30 dealers from across the country, showcasing the rare and the beautiful. Show features a youth area, USPS substation, door prizes, workshops and more. Visit website for times. Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3150 E. New York Ave., DeLand. florexstampshow.com

SESAME STREET LIVE! ELMO AND FRIENDS SAY HELLO

Dec. 8: Sing, dance and play along with your favorite Sesame Street friends as Elmo’s puppy, Tango, plays hide and seek. 6 p.m. The Plaza Live, 425 N. Bumby Ave., Orlando. 407-228-1220. plazaliveorlando.org

NORTH AMERICAN CHILDREN AND YOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL

Dec. 27: This prestigious multicultural celebration brings together talented young people from across North America to showcase their creativity, cultural pride and talent. 1 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

MAGIC ROCKS! ILLUSIONIST LEON ETIENNE

Dec. 31: This immersive experience brings the grand illusions, sleight-of-hand and comedy that have gotten Etienne to the top of the profession. 8 p.m. Hard Rock Live, 6050 Universal Blvd., Orlando. 407-351-5483. hardrock.com