Holiday Events

APOPKA HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

From a tree lighting ceremony in Kit Land Nelson Park to the 47th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade to a free pops concert with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra at the Apopka Amphitheater, Apopka’s Christmas traditions emphasize the joy of the season. 407-703-1700. apopka.net

Dec. 1: Apopka Tree Lighting, 6 p.m

Dec. 2: NOLA Holiday Brass Band, 5 p.m.

Dec. 9: The Foliage Sertoma Club of Apopka’s 47th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade, 10 a.m. Dec. 9: Holiday Pops with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, 5 p.m. 

CITY OF ORLANDO TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION

Dec. 1: One of Orlando’s most-loved events is the lighting of the city’s six-story tree featuring 88,000 lights. Before the lighting, neighbors and visitors are treated to snowfalls, a visit with Santa and a holiday show at Walt Disney Amphitheater featuring the Orlando Concert Band. Stroll the Merry Market, open each weekend through Dec. 23, where more than 30 vendors make shopping local easy and enjoyable. 5-9 p.m., Lake Eola Park, 195 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2121. orlando.gov

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 happening on select nights and horse-drawn holiday carriage tours on select days. 407-656-4111. downtownwg.com

Dec. 1: Light Up Winter Garden tree- and street-lighting ceremony, 6 p.m.

Dec. 2: Winter Garden Christmas Parade, South Dillard Street, 10 a.m.

Dec. 7: Chanukah Celebration & Menorah Lighting, 6 p.m. 

Dec. 8, 15, 22, 29: Holiday Fridays on the Plaza music performances, 7 p.m.

Dec. 9: A Very Merry Farmers Market with Santa, 8 a.m.

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. Visit ci.mount-dora.fl.us for a complete listing of events. 352-735-7100.

November 25: Light Up Mount Dora

Dec. 1: Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Walk, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13: Lake Concert Band Holiday Concert, 7 p.m.

WINTER PARK FESTIVITIES

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

Dec. 1: 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. 2: More than 80 organizations will be rolling in the 71st Annual Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade, the oldest holiday parade in Central Florida, as it travels down Park Avenue, starting at Cole Avenue. 9-10:30 a.m 

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER—THE MUSICAL

Dec. 1-17: In a certain small town in America, one family’s kids are a little more mischievous than most, and they have set their sights on starring in the annual Christmas pageant.

Dec. 1, 2, 7, 8, 15 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 9, 10, 17 at 2 p.m.; ASL show Dec. 16 at 2 p.m. Osceola Arts, 2411 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee. 407-846-6257. osceolaarts.org

AVALON AGLOW & HOLIDAY EVENTS

Dec. 2: Join this picturesque neighborhood for a public celebration featuring a heartwarming holiday parade, food trucks, a bounce park, community performances and fireworks. 3-9 p.m. 3680 Avalon Park East Blvd., Orlando. 407-658-6565. avalonparkorlando.com

Dec. 5 & 14: Holiday Hayrides, 6 p.m.

Dec. 6: Holiday Light Bike Tour, 6 p.m

Dec. 9: Children’s Winter Party, 10 a.m

Dec. 9: Milk & Cookies with Santa, 3 p.m. 

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS

Dec. 2: 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, dance performances and kids’ activities. 5-9 p.m. 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs. 407-571-8863. altamonte.org

ORLANDO POTTERY FESTIVAL & HOLIDAY ARTS MARKET

Dec. 2-3: Central Florida’s largest  winter ceramic arts celebration and market features unique, handcrafted items for the home, garden and gift giving. Shop the diverse range of works produced by more than 50 local artists. Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Florida National Guard Armory, 2809 S. Ferncreek Ave., Orlando. orlandopotteryfestival.org 

WINTER WONDERLAND & THE MARKET PLACE

Dec. 2-3: The self-guided Celebration Holiday Home Tour features the Winter Wonderland display of themed holiday trees and tablescapes. All the holiday decorations and gifts at Winter Wonderland, and much more, are available for purchase at The Market Place. Saturday 1-7 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. 1175 Celebration Ave. 407-566-1234. celebrationfoundation.org

RUSSIAN BALLET ORLANDO’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 2, 8, 10, 16: Russian Ballet Orlando brings to life this classic holiday tale with spectacular dancing, singing and costumes that will transport audiences to the Land of Sweets. Times TBA. Dec. 2 at The Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. Dec. 8 at Orlando Family Stage, 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. Dec. 10  at Polk Theatre, 139 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland. Dec. 16 at Walt Disney Amphitheater, 195 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando.

UCF’S KNIGHTS SEASON OF JOY 

Dec. 3: The UCF Choirs and members of the UCF Symphony Orchestra and faculty join vocal jazz quartet Resolve for Christmas favorites, spirituals and carols that will fill the evening with holiday cheer. 7 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

CHRISTMAS AT THE MOVIES—A VERY MERRY SEQUEL

Dec. 7-8: Central Florida Community Arts Community Choir is a powerful, 300-voice ensemble that’s perfect for a holiday extravaganza. They and members of the CFCArts Symphony Orchestra celebrate the season with a program of music from all the merriest of movies ever made. 7:30 p.m., Northland Church, 522 Dog Track Road, Longwood. 407-937-1800. cfcarts.com 

ORLANDO BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 8-24: Art Director Jorden Morris spent three years reimagining this heavyweight holiday classic, bringing new sets, choreography, lighting and costumes to the stage to tell this sweet and whimsical tale. Expect giant snow globes, fancy mice and high-flying surprises. Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 & 7 p.m. Sensory-friendly shows: Dec. 9, 16, 23 at 2 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

11th ANNUAL VIOLECTRIC HOLIDAY SHOW

Dec. 9: Rock into the holiday season with this free, family- and pet-friendly outdoor concert featuring holiday tunes and mashups on electrified strings. Bring your pet for a night out. 7 p.m. Walt Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola, 195 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando. violectric.net

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT

Dec. 9: Join the 100-plus voices of the Brevard Community Chorus as they and members of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra perform some of the season’s most-loved music, including highlights from Handel’s oratorio, “Messiah.” The concert ends with an audience sing-along of traditional favorites. 7:30 p.m. King Center for the Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-242-2219. kingcenter.com

A CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS 

Dec. 9-10: The Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra will be joined by the Bach Festival Children’s Choirs for this joyous celebration, a beloved Central Florida tradition renowned for its national broadcasts on PBS. 2 & 5 p.m. both days. Bach Festival Society of Winter Park, Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. 407-646-2182. bachfestivalflorida.org

PHANTASMAGORIA’S A MOST HAUNTED VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS

Dec. 9-10; 15; 22-23: Gather ‘round the hearth at three venues with Central Florida’s one and only Victorian performance troupe as it weaves tales both whimsical and macabre in a spirited approach to Christmas. Dec. 9 at 8 p.m., Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org. Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com. Dec. 22-23 at 7:30 p.m. Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. 386-736-1500. athensdeland.com

PEACE ON EARTH—MAKE THE YULETIDE GAY!

Dec. 10 & 16: Join the Orlando Gay Chorus for a holiday spectacular from around the world. Explore Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa traditions while enjoying songs performed in English, German, Spanish, Swahili, Korean, Zulu, Hawaiian and Mandarin for a truly international experience. Sunday 4 p.m. at Lake Highland Preparatory School, 901 Highland Ave., Orlando. Saturday 7:30 p.m. at Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch  Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS—THE MUSIC OF VINCE GUARALDI 

Dec. 15: The animated TV special has been teaching kids the true meaning of the holiday since 1965 and its music went above and beyond, becoming seasonal classics. The Zachary Bartholomew Trio presents an interactive and informative concert of those classics, opening the floodgates on childhood memories. 8 p.m. Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, 1905 Kentucky Ave., Winter Park. 407-636-9951. bluebambooartcenter.com

SUGAR PLUM FAIRY’S WINTER TALE

Dec. 15: Orlando Metropolitan Ballet’s presentation of a magical journey as the Sugar Plum Fairy welcomes Clara and her nutcracker-toy prince to the Land of Sweets in this two-act ballet. 7 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

THE ILLUSIONISTS—MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS

Dec. 15: The holiday season is magical, so how about some literal magic among the twinkling lights? The Illusionists bring a mix of outrageous and astonishing acts to the stage in, as they say, “unprecedented proportions,” and it might be worthwhile to find out what exactly that means. 8 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 407-358-6603. drphillipscenter.org

A SWINGIN’ CHRISTMAS—THE HOLIDAY MUSIC OF TONY BENNETT

Through Dec. 16: This show rings in the holidays with Bennett’s quintessential songs and features 18 Christmas classics. Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Friday-Sunday 2 p.m. Check website for additional times on select dates.  Winter Park Playhouse, 711 N. Orange Ave., Suite C, Winter Park. 407-645-0145. winterparkplayhouse.org

IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS

Through Dec. 17: This musical showcases many of Berlin’s legendary songs and is based on the 1954 film “White Christmas.” Dreaming of a white Christmas is the theme but this show also is a heartwarming evening of nostalgia and American pride. Saturday 2:30 p.m.; Thursday, Friday, Sunday 12:30 p.m. Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. 386-736-1500. athensdeland.com

ORLANDO BIG BAND—A WHITE CHRISTMAS

Dec. 17: Sing along with your holiday favorites, such as “Jingle Bells,” “Sleigh Ride” and “Santa Baby” as the OBB steps back in time for a spirited Christmas celebration. 3 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch  Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com.

ORLANDO JAZZ ORCHESTRA PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER SUITE’

Dec. 17: The OJR, led by drummer Greg Parnell, presents Duke Ellington’s jazz interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” 3 p.m. Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, 1905 Kentucky Ave., Winter Park. 407-636-9951. bluebambooartcenter.com

CELTIC WOMAN—CHRISTMAS SYMPHONY 2023

Dec. 19: Experience the angelic harmonies of Ireland’s most successful female group ever in an intimate setting with a full symphonic orchestra to accompany. 7:30 p.m. The Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd., Daytona Beach. 386-671-3462. peabodyauditorium.org

CHRISTMAS SWING WITH THE ORLANDO BIG BAND

Dec. 19: The OBB has invited some friends—Bing, Rosemary, Cab, Glenn, Artie and Benny—to help them ring in the season with some of the greatest holiday hits of all time. 3 & 7 p.m. Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. 386-736-1500. athensdeland.com

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND

Dec. 21: This international circus of acrobats and dancers, actors and musicians transports the audience to a wonderland of grace and athletic dare-devilry wrapped in the magic of the holiday season. 7:30 p.m. King Center for the Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-242-2219. kingcenter.com

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA—THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS EVE

Dec. 22: With TSO’s fusion of rock, classical and orchestral elements, their holiday albums and theatrical live performances have become a family tradition for millions of people around the globe. 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., Orlando. 407-440-7900. amwaycenter.com

MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY

Through Dec. 22: Make some very merry memories in the Magic Kingdom amid the snow and splendor of the holidays. Mickey and friends welcome guests with a seasonal parade, fireworks, treats, musical shows and rocking Christmas parties. Select nights. Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com

MOONSHINE & MISTLETOE—AN APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS TALE

Through Dec. 23: This musical throwback to a simpler time tells the tale of the Ballards, who welcome family and friends into their mountain home to celebrate Christmas Day in the midst of the Great Depression. They have no gifts to give so they share their love of Appalachian hymns and carols. Check website for times. Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. 407-877-4736. gardentheatre.org

SEAWORLD CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Through Dec. 31: Create traditions and unforgettable memories with family and friends in this winter wonderland sparkling with 3 million holiday lights. Indulge in seasonal shopping, animal shows, live entertainment and specialty treats and beverages. Included with park admission. SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando. 407-545-5550. seaworld.com

HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

Through Dec. 31: Grab your Muggle friends and get your cheer on as Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are transformed for the holidays. Indulge in the spirit of the season with special treats and activities, Universal’s Holiday Parade and much more. Included with park admission. Universal Orlando Resort, 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando. 407-363-8000. universalorlando.com

HOLIDAY NIGHTS AT ISLAND H2O WATER PARK

Through Dec. 31: Christmas in Florida lends itself to a tropical-themed holiday and a water park is a fitting venue. This immersive, family-friendly experience includes dazzling light displays, community choirs, DJs, weekend luaus, seasonal foods, children’s activities and more. Visit website for dates and tickets. Island H2O Water Park, 3230 Inspiration Drive, Kissimmee. 407-910-1401. islandh2owaterpark.com

ORLANDO SHAKES ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

Through Dec. 24: This adaptation by Artistic Director Jim Helsinger features favorite carols, awe-inspiring special effects and the timeless tale of redemption for the heart and soul of miser Ebenezer Scrooge. Check website for times. Orlando Shakes, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. 407-447-1700. orlandoshakes.org

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE HOLIDAYS

Through Dec. 30: This yuletide extravaganza features traditions, foods and beverages from Epcot’s World Showcase nations and special kiosks. Merry experiences await, including the Holiday Cookie Stroll, Candlelight Processional, the story of Christmas told by a celebrity narrator and a 50-piece orchestra with full choir. EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com

HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND

Through Dec. 31: It’s a Lego lover’s dream Christmas with decorations, a giant tree, Santa and a toy soldier all made out of LEGO blocks. Special activities include seasonal shows, twinkling lights, holiday treats and more, all included with admission. Check website for days. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. 888-690-5346. legoland.com

HOLIDAYS AT THE MORSE MUSEUM

Through Dec. 30: Friday night admission is free throughout the holiday season, as are holiday events and live music programs. 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-645-5311. morsemuseum.org

CELEBRATION NOW SNOWING

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

CHRISTMAS AT GAYLORD PALMS

Through Jan. 3: Gaylord Palms is a Christmas destination for locals and visitors alike, with acres of festive decorations, dozens of sensory experiences, fun activities, live shows and more. The ICE! show returns, featuring “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” built of truckloads of ice blocks that are carved by artisans from China. Buy tickets online. 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000. christmasatgaylordpalms.com

DAZZLING NIGHTS AT LEU GARDENS

Through Jan. 6: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the holidays at Dazzling Nights, a three-quarter-mile journey of awe-inspiring light experiences brought to life by Creative City Project. This magical, interactive family experience features a 30-foot-tall tree made of thousands of shimmering gold sequins, a 70-foot-long light tunnel, a laser forest, snowy nights and holiday tunes, treats and beverages. Choose dates and entry times online. Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando dazzlingorlando.com

HOLIDAY BLOOMS

Through Jan. 7: 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

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Special Events

ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL—INTO THE WILD

Through Jan. 14: One of the zoo’s most popular events is back for a fourth year, with new lanterns for this stunning evening experience with larger-than-life illuminated lanterns celebrating the culture, art and beauty of Asia’s traditional lantern festivals. LED-lighted sculptures depicting animals, plants and traditional Chinese elements line the paths for this outdoor display. 6-10 p.m. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford. 407-323-4450. centralfloridazoo.org

FLOREX 2023 FLORIDA STAMP SHOW

Dec. 1-2: This World Series of Philately show presents 30 dealers from all over North America, showcasing the rare and the beautiful. This year’s show features a youth area, a USPS substation, door prizes, workshops and more. Free parking and admission. Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3150 E. New York Ave., DeLand. florexstampshow.com

ORLANDO STORY CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

Dec. 13: The Orlando Story Club is a live storytelling competition. Anyone with a story that fits the theme is invited to put their name in the hat, in the hope they will be one of 10 chosen to tell their story. Winners from the previous shows then compete for the title of Ultimate Storytelling Champion, which comes with hyperlocal fame. 7 p.m. CityArts Orlando, 39 Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 407-648-7060. downtownartsdistrict.com