Santa, snow and sleigh bells make Seminole County someplace very special during this holiday season. So, sip some eggnog and dig into these delightful ways to celebrate Christmas this December in Orlando North.
Here’s a look at what’s happening this season, in order of dates:
1. Wekiva Island’s Winter Wonderland
When: December 1st – 25th (schedule varies)
Where: Wekiva Island
Details: Enjoy the charm of snowfall while wandering through a magical forest of Christmas trees. Experience surprise visits from Santa himself. Admission is just $5, and there are plenty of festive activities to enjoy throughout the month!
2. Cookies and Milk with Santa and Mrs. Claus
When: December 1st, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Dee’s Brothers Brewery, Sanford
Details: Explore a delightful celebration with cookies, milk, and a festive Kids Zone. Savor food from Ben’s Burgers and capture magical moments with Santa!
3. Oviedo Mall’s Christmas Favorites Movie Series
When: December 1st, 7th, 14th, 21st
Where: Oviedo Mall
Details: Come on out for some holiday classics like Elf and The Polar Express on the big screen for just $5! Bring the whole family for a fun movie experience.
4. Hollerbach’s Krampusnacht 2024 – The Ultimate Battle of Evil vs. Good
When: December 5th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: 205 E 1st St., Sanford, FL
Details: Experience the ultimate holiday showdown as Krampus takes on St. Nick in a thrilling pro wrestling match in Historic Downtown Sanford! Enjoy festive treats, exclusive brews, and a holiday market as this unforgettable event kicks off the season in chaotic style. This event is not advisable for children.
5. Festival of Lights
When: December 5th, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Rainbow Elementary Parking Lot in Winter Springs
Details: Explore an evening filled with food trucks, music, games, and decorated trunks! This year features a trunk decorating contest judged by special community partners. Don’t miss the chance to take a photo with a special guest!
6. Holiday in the Park – Lake Mary
When: December 6th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Central Park, Lake Mary
Details: Get ready for Holiday in the Park, presented by Duke Energy! Enjoy ice skating, meet Santa, and marvel at the million lights that will sparkle throughout the park. With food trucks and family-friendly activities, this cherished tradition is a must-see!
7. St. Nicholas Day (Nikolaustag)
When: December 6th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Hollerbach’s German Restaurant
Details: Celebrate this German holiday tradition with St. Nicholas! Get ready for some photos, chocolate Advent calendars, and a holiday show featuring Nick and Eckhard.
8. Light Up Sanford
When: December 6th, 6:30 PM
Where: Magnolia Square, Sanford
Details: Experience the magic of the City’s Tree Lighting Ceremony with holiday entertainment and a visit from Santa. Enjoy the enchanting atmosphere as the Magnolia Square Christmas Tree lights up the night!
9. Reindeer Run and Roll 5K
When: December 7th, Check-in at 7:00 AM
Where: 1191 Commerce Park Dr. in Altamonte Springs
Details: Dress in your best holiday attire for this fun run benefiting the CORE Foundation. After the race, enjoy a lively Parking Lot Party with fun festivities, music, and mimosas.
10. 2024 Paws & Claus
When: December 7th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Fort Mellon Park & Sanford Riverwalk
Details: Bring your furry friends to this adoption event featuring Santa for pet photos! Help give pets in need a forever home while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
11. 35th Annual Sanford Holiday Tour of Homes
When: December 7th, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Check-in at Sanford Museum
Details: Explore beautifully decorated homes in the Mayfair and Historic District. Experience inside tours, sweet treats, and meet local artisans at the Holiday Market! Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for children.
12. Winter Wonderland Parade and Tree Lighting
When: December 7th, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Winter Springs Town Center
Details: Join the community for a festive parade, tree lighting, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Plus, enjoy local entertainment and culinary offerings from various food trucks.
13. City of Casselberry Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: December 7th, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Lake Concord Park
Details: Embark on a festive night of entertainment and singing, as well as holiday vendors and local school performances. Look out for a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus!
14. Light Up the Holidays
When: December 7th, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs
Details: Celebrate the tradition of lighting up the park with live music, fireworks, and holiday displays featuring 200,000 lights. Enjoy dance performances, train rides, and kids activities before getting your photo with Ol’ Saint Nick and Mrs. Claus.
15. Longwood Christmas Parade
When: December 7th, 6:00 PM
Where: Downtown Longwood
Details: Experience a spectacular display of illuminated floats, festive characters, and local performances along the parade route. This event will be Mc’d by Chad & Leslye from Magic 107.7!
16. City of Oviedo’s Holiday Parade
When: December 7th, 7:00 PM
Where: Oviedo Boulevard
Details: Celebrate the season with a festive parade featuring local groups and organizations showcasing their holiday spirit! Enjoy goodies from food trucks parked on City Walk Lane. Vendors will be open for purchases at 5 PM.
17. Oviedo Mall’s Night Market: Naughty vs. Nice
When: December 13th, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Oviedo Brewing Company
Details: Explore a festive night filled with local vendors, delicious food, and live entertainment. Dress to impress with your best “Naughty or Nice” look! There may be surprises for those showcasing the most holiday spirit!
18. City of Longwood’s Annual Celebrate the Season Event
When: December 13th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Longwood
Details: This holiday street party will feature activities for all ages, including music, food trucks, and an impressive laser light show. Snag a photo with Santa before experiencing some Florida snow in an inflatable snow maze and snow flurry zone!
19. Winterfest in Oviedo
When: December 14th, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Center Lake Park, Oviedo
Details: A winter wonderland filled with rides, activities, and food trucks! Purchase an all-inclusive wristband for unlimited access. Kiddos can also get their pictures taken with Santa.
20. Twas Christmas at Lukas
When: December 15th, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Lukas Nursery in Oviedo
Details: Bring your family for an afternoon of holiday crafts, butterfly feedings, and a special sleigh ride to Santa’s Storytime. Pre-purchased tickets are required! Experience a snowfall and play in the “snow” while listening to Christmas carolers.
21. Light up Central Winds: Drive-Thru & Walk-Thru Experience
When: December 15-20th from 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Drive-Thru Dates) & December 21st from 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Walk-Thru Date)
Where: Central Winds Park, Winter Springs, FL
Details: Celebrate the holiday season at Winter Springs’ “Light Up Central Winds,” featuring a drive-thru light experience and a magical walk-thru night with Santa, festive treats, and a screening of Elf. This beloved tradition promises holiday cheer and dazzling displays for all ages!
22. Gnome Town Holiday Market and Festival
When: December 21st, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Sanford Civic Center
Details: Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy vendors, food trucks, and a kid zone for festive fun! Plus, join in on the foam party while dancing along to a live DJ.
23. Sanford Santa Brewery Crawl
When: December 21st, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Various Sanford breweries
Details: Celebrate the 2nd Annual Santa Crawl through Historic Downtown Sanford, complete with festive outfits and drinks at local breweries. Tickets are $35 and include drinks and a gift bag!
24. The Barbara-Lee Riverside Yuletide
When: Through December 22nd
Where: St Johns River, Sanford
Details: Embark on a 3-hour holiday cabaret cruise featuring music, dance, and a four-course meal as you float down the river in holiday cheer! Experience festive storytelling and changing variety acts throughout your trip.
25. Festive Fun Night with Santa’s Elves
When: December 24th, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: 274 Clearview Road, Chuluota
Details: Celebrate a night of festive fun you won’t want to miss! Stop by anytime between 6 and 9 PM. Adults get a special treat! Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa and meet Santa’s cheerful elves to check if your kids made the Naughty or Nice List!
With so much to do this time of year, there is something to suit everyone. Please note that some events may have specific dates and times not mentioned in the provided information. It’s always a good idea to check the official websites or contact event organizers for the most up-to-date information. Enjoy a festive and joyful holiday season in Seminole County!