Magical Holidays in Orlando: A Guide to the Season’s Best Theme Park Events, Resort Festivities, & Shopping
The Encore Resort Blog
December 6, 2023
December 6, 2023
Embrace the spirit of the season with joyous celebrations at Encore Resort at Reunion! We’ve got all the details covered, ensuring your holidays are stress-free and filled with festive fun. Take in the warmth of Orlando’s delightful weather, where sunny days and pleasantly cool nights provide the perfect backdrop for holiday magic without the winter chill. Enjoy quality time with loved ones and create lasting memories through our holiday-themed activities leading up to Christmas Day. From top festive events to exciting shopping and a plethora of fun activities, here’s your guide to a joyous vacation in Orlando.
Orlando Theme Park Events
Magic Kingdom | Annually: November – December
Held on select nights throughout November and December, the annual Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a magical holiday event the whole family can enjoy together. Kids can see their beloved characters face-to-face, all decked out in festive attire. Explore dozens of attractions, enjoy complimentary holiday treats, watch Queen Elsa transform Cinderella’s Castle into a shimmering ice palace, and much more!
Explore the event page and start planning your very merry Orlando getaway today!
EPCOT | Annually: November – December
Discover the sights, sounds, and yuletide traditions of Epcot’s 11 World Showcase nations. Featuring live musical performances, a diverse array of international foods, a scavenger hunt with Chip & Dale, a grand firework finale, costumed performers, and holiday-themed activities.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios | Annually: November – December
Make sure you catch the latest addition to Disney’s festive celebrations: “Jollywood Nights” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This exciting new event transports you into the enchanting world of a Hollywood-inspired holiday, showcasing spectacular projections, performances by renowned stars, and, naturally, cherished Disney characters—all unfolding against the picturesque backdrop of the park’s iconic landmarks. It’s an ideal opportunity to infuse your Orlando holiday experience with the glitter and glamour reminiscent of Tinseltown!
Universal Orlando Resort | Annually: November – January
Nothing kindles the holiday spirit like the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Visit Hogsmeade, take a trip down Diagon Alley, drink butterbeer, and see the iconic Hogwarts Castle. Marvel at the merry procession of Minions, Santa, Shrek, and Madagascar characters at Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s. Enjoy a live re-telling of Dr. Seuss’ holiday classic at The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.
Encore Resort Holiday Events
Saturday, December 23, 2023 – Registration: 8:15 am, Race Start: 9 am
Step into the festive spirit at Encore Resort’s Jingle All the Way 5K Walk/Run! Lace up your shoes and hear the sleigh bells ring as you traverse the enchanting resort grounds. Registration opens at 8:15 AM, and the race kicks off at 9:00 AM. It’s $15 per person, and kids aged 5 and under are FREE! Top three competitors win fantastic prizes. Embrace the holiday cheer and join us for a jolly good time!
Finn’s Restaurant | Sunday, December 24, 2023 – 10 am to 2 pm
Join us for a magical Christmas Eve Brunch at Encore Resort! Revel in festive joy with delectable dishes, laughter, and cherished memories. All are welcome — guests and locals alike. Reserve your table today by calling 407-698-5587 or emailing [email protected] to ensure a magical experience for your family.
Monday, December 25, 2023 – Delivery between 1 pm to 2:30 pm
Elevate your Christmas celebration by pre-ordering a gourmet Christmas Dinner delivered straight to your Encore resort home on Christmas Day itself. Your meal arrives piping hot and ready to savor. Opt for the classic whole Ham or Turkey, which can be pre-sliced upon request, ensuring a seamless and delightful dining experience for you and your loved ones.
Orlando Holiday Shopping
Located at Walt Disney World Resort, this popular Orlando attraction offers an unforgettable family-fun shopping experience. Picturesque and filled with festive surprises, Disney Springs is a stunning re-creation of a quintessentially Florida waterfront town. Peruse brand-name and Disney-themed shops and enjoy award-winning dining.
Additional Features:
- Entertainment at the Edison: Live music and cabaret dancers
- Wine Bar George: Florida’s only master sommelier-led wine bar boasts over 130 wine selections
- Holiday Happenings: The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail is a must for shoppers traveling with kids. Listen to holiday music, explore Disney-themed décor, and indulge in tasty seasonal treats.
Discover the sights, sounds, and yuletide traditions of Epcot’s 11 World Showcase nations. Featuring live musical performances, a diverse array of international foods, a scavenger hunt with Chip & Dale, a grand firework finale, costumed performers, and holiday-themed activities.
Additional Features:
- Dining Pavilion: 23 restaurants, plus indoor and outdoor seating options
- Park & Play: 3000 sq. ft. nature-inspired play area
- Crayola Experience: Family attraction with hands-on activities for adults and kids
- Holiday Happenings: Enjoy holiday cookies, get your picture taken with Santa, experience a holiday-themed tea experience with American Girl, and more
Centrally located between downtown Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort, The Mall at Millenia is a world-class destination with an impressive collection of luxury retailers. Top brands at the mall include Chanel, Prada, Tory Burch, and Gucci, and restaurants such as The Capital Grille and Earls Kitchen + Bar are among the 150 shops and eateries.
Additional Features:
- Superior Guest Amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi, electronic device charging stations, currency exchange, valet parking, and more
- Full-Service Concierge
- Holiday Happenings: See dazzling holiday décor, visit with Santa, and take advantage of photo ops
Nestled just north of downtown Orlando, Ivanhoe Village is a lovely historic district with a beautiful lakefront setting and plenty of tree-lined walkways. Known locally as Antique Row, the charming storefronts house an eclectic variety of antique shops, galleries, boutiques, and retro-minded retailers.
Ivanhoe Village Attractions:
- Restaurants, Breweries, and Speakeasies – The dining and nightlife scene includes an assortment of taprooms, lively speakeasies, and quaint, gourmet-style restaurants, including the popular brunch spot, White Wolf Café & Bar
- Orlando Urban Trail – From Ivanhoe Village, pedestrians can easily access the 3-mile urban trail that runs from Lake Highland to Mead Botanical.
The Promenade at Sunset Walk is a dynamic destination nestled in the heart of Kissimmee, Florida which offers an array of enticing experiences. From diverse dining options to live entertainment, and more, this vibrant hub captivates visitors with its blend of leisure and amusement. Explore the Promenade, where relaxation meets excitement in the perfect fusion of entertainment and style.
Additional Features:
Book Your Vacation HomeNear All of Orlando’s Top Holiday Attractions
Booking a vacation home at Encore Resort at Reunion allows you to enjoy the convenience of staying near Orlando’s best malls, holiday shopping attractions, and theme park events. Each luxury rental includes a fully-equipped kitchen, back yard with a private pool, and access to unbeatable resort amenities. Book with Encore Resort today to create new holiday memories!
