Holiday Events

MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY

Through Dec. 20: Make some very merry memories in the Magic Kingdom amid the snow and splendor of the holidays. Mickey, Minnie 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. 407-939-5277. disneyworld.disney.go.com

DISNEY JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS

Through Dec. 21: Holiday cheer goes Hollywood with special shows such as “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along,” as well as themed entertainment, character encounters, special merch and tasty treats. Separately priced event on select nights. 7:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 351 S. Studio Drive, Lake Buena Vista. 407- 939-5277. disneyworld.disney.go.com

WRECK THE HALLS

Through Dec. 21: This musical comedy with four actors playing 46 characters will hit home for anyone who indulges in the traditions of Christmas while fully acknowledging they can make you a little bit nuts. Thursday 7:30 p.m., Friday & Saturday 2 & 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. Winter Park Playhouse, 711 N. Orange Ave., Suite C, Winter Park. 407-645-0145. winterparkplayhouse.org

ORLANDO SHAKES’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Through Dec. 22: This annual tradition features favorite carols, awe-inspiring special effects and the timeless tale of redemption for the heart and soul of greedy and miserable Ebenezer Scrooge. Check website for times. Orlando Shakes, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. 407-447-1700. orlandoshakes.org

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS—LIVE ON STAGE

Through Dec. 29: This faithful stage adaptation celebrates the timeless TV classic as families join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang in their journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. Visit website for times. Orlando Family Stage, 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. 407-896-7365. orlandofamilystage.com

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 and Candlelight Processional, the story of Christmas told by a celebrity narrator backed by a 50-piece orchestra with full choir. 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 6, 7, 8 & 9 p.m. as strolling carolers sing holiday favorites. Free admission and parking. Celebration Town Center, 610 Sycamore St., Celebration. 407-566-4007. celebrationtowncenter.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, a kids’ New Years Eve party at a reasonable hour and more, all included with admission. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. 888-690-5346. legoland.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, including Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular and much more. Included with park admission. Universal Orlando Resort, 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando. 407-363-8000. universalorlando.com

SEAWORLD CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Through Jan. 2: 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, specialty treats and beverages and live entertainment. Included with park admission. SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando. 407-545-5550. seaworld.com

CHRISTMAS AT GAYLORD PALMS

Through Jan. 4: The Gaylord Palms is a Christmas destination for locals and visitors alike, with acres of festive decorations, dozens of sensory experiences, fun activities, live shows, holiday treats, merchandise and more. Buy tickets online. 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000. christmasatgaylordpalms.marriott.com

DAZZLING NIGHTS AT LEU GARDENS

Through Jan. 5: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the holidays at Dazzling Nights. This magical, interactive family experience features a 30-foot-tall tree of shimmering gold; a light show with 100 light tubes, each 10 feet long; a forest of laser beams; 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. 5: 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

SANFORD JAZZ ENSEMBLE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Dec. 1: Enjoy Christmas classics with everything from a swing beat to Latin to waltz. 3 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com

DEREK HOUGH—DANCE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Dec. 3: The Emmy Award-winning dancer and choreographer and his troupe bring favorite holiday music to life through festive production numbers. 7 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 407-358-6603. drphillipscenter.org

SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

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

Dec. 3: Symphonic/Community Band, Jazz Combo, Jazz Ambassadors and small chamber ensembles take to the stage for the school’s Holiday Band Concert. 7:30 p.m. Winter Springs High School, 130 Tuskawilla Road, Winter Springs.

Dec. 10: Join the Seminole State choirs for an evening of traditional and new seasonal favorites at the Holiday Choir Concert, Heathrow Campus, 7:30 p.m. 1055 AAA Drive, Heathrow.

VOCTAVE—IT FEELS LIKE CHRISTMAS

Dec. 4: The a cappella group brings its uplifting harmonies to a night full of holiday favorites. 7:30 p.m. Celebration Foundation, Community Presbyterian Church, 511 Celebration Ave., Celebration. 407-566-1234. celebrationfoundation.org

STETSON UNIVERSITY CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT

Dec. 4-7: Serene and inspiring candlelight performances of classical favorites. 7:30 p.m. Stetson University School of Music, 421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8399, DeLand. Most performances in Lee Chapel of  Elizabeth Hall. 386-822-8950. stetson.edu

AROUND THE WORLD AT CHRISTMAS

Dec. 5-6: Celebrate the magic of the season with CFCArts Community Choir’s annual holiday concert. 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.

APOPKA HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

From a tree lighting ceremony at Kit Land Nelson Park to the 48th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade, Apopka’s Christmas traditions emphasize the joy of the season. 407-703-1700. apopka.net

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

Dec. 14: The Foliage Sertoma Club of Apopka’s 48th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade,  10 a.m.

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-Jan. 7: 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.

Dec. 21: Holiday Drone Show, 6:30 & 8 p.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 happening on select nights and horse-drawn holiday carriage tours on select evenings. 407-656-4111. cwgdn.com

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

Dec. 6-Jan. 5: Main Street Holiday Stroll, daily.

Dec. 7: Winter Garden Christmas Parade, South Dillard Street, 10 a.m.

Dec. 7: Golf Cart Parade, West Plant Street, 6 p.m.

Dec. 7: Holiday Night Market, Downtown Pavilion, 4-8 p.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.mountdora.fl.us and mountdora.com for complete listings of events. 352-735-7100.

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

Dec. 7: Christmas Parade, 10 a.m.

Dec. 7: Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, 7 p.m.

Dec. 7-8: Christmas Tour of Homes, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Dec. 14: Children’s Christmas in the Park with Snow, 4-9 p.m.

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

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. 6: 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. 7: More than 80 organizations will be rolling in the 72nd  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.

FOUR LOST SANTAS/AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS

Dec. 6-8: The first part of this performance is an original Christmas opera commissioned by Opera Orlando and is a touching and humorous lead-in to Menotti’s seasonal favorite. The two blend the commercial and the sacred sides of the holiday for a new Christmas tradition. Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday 2 & 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, THE MUSICAL

Dec. 6-8: 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 2:30 & 7 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m. Orlando Family Stage, 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. 407-896-7365. orlandofamilystage.com

A 1940S RADIO CHRISTMAS CAROL

Dec. 6-22: Go back in time for this radio broadcast from 1943 Newark, N.J., as the Feddington Players deliver a live musical rendition of the Dickens classic while one of the actors has a personal crisis on air. Visit website for times. Osceola Arts, 2411 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee. 407-846-6257. osceolaarts.org

ORLANDO BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 6-22: 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

AVALON AGLOW & HOLIDAY EVENTS

Dec. 7: 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

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS

Dec. 7: 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

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR & THE MAGICAL MARKETPLACE

Dec. 7-8: 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 1-7 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. 1175 Celebration Ave. 407-566-1234. celebrationfoundation.org

ORLANDO HOLIDAY MARKET

Dec. 7-8: With more than 150 artisans in a single venue, this first annual indoor holiday market just may fill all your gift-shopping and festive decor needs. Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dezerland Park Event Space, 5250 International Drive, Orlando. bmgevents.com

FLAMENCO DEL SOL THE NUTCRACKER

Dec. 8: Join Clarita on an enchanted expedition through some of Spain’s most iconic places in this vibrant retelling of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. 3 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com

CIRQUE MECHANICS WINTER WONDER SHOPPE

Dec. 12-29: This holiday emporium is like no other, as aerial and acrobatic artists tell the tale of a quirky shopkeeper on a mission to sell a prized bicycle to the right customer, who will make a holiday dream come true. Visit website for times. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

KING GUYS COOL YULE BAND

Dec. 13: Every band member is a current or former performer at Walt Disney World Resort, so the professionalism is top shelf. Guest vocalist Michelle Amato brings vocal dexterity to this holiday performance. 7:30 p.m. Timucua Arts Foundation, 2000 S. Summerlin Ave., Orlando. 800-435-7352. timucua.com

A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL

Dec. 13-15: This Youth Theater production is performed entirely by young actors in this comedic tale of Ralphie Parker and his quest for the ultimate Christmas gift. Friday 7 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday 2 & 7 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE—A LIVE RADIO PLAY

Dec. 13-15: The CFCArts Youth Theatre Troupe presents a clever take on the holiday classic featuring an idealistic man contemplating his future one fateful Christmas Eve. Produced as a 1940s radio broadcast, an ensemble brings dozens of characters to the stage with sound effects and retro jingles. Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 2 & 7 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. Central Florida Public Media Studios, 11510 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando.

SLEIGH—IT’S CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY!

Dec. 13-15, 20-22: Part of the Orlando Shakes Concert Series, the contemporary pop a cappella group Sleigh presents new arrangements of current and classic holiday tunes. Friday, Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. Mandell Studio Theater, Orlando Shakes, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. 4070447-1700. orlandoshakes.org

CHRISTMAS ARRIVES IN NARCOOSSEE

Dec. 14: Christmas Arrives in Narcoossee at the historic 1886  Narcoossee Schoolhouse on 5026 Yukon Street, Saint Cloud, FL 34771 from 11am to 2pm. Family pictures with Santa 11am to 1pm. Mini vendor market. Shop for unique COKE memorabilia. Chili cook-off, Hot dogs and Baked Goods. All proceeds help preserve and share local history. Email: info@narcoosseehistory.org

A BIG BAND CHRISTMAS

Dec. 14: The CFCArts Big Band, one of the biggest in the country, unwraps a holiday performance of fresh takes on Christmas classics. 2 & 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.

CENTRAL FLORIDA FOLK HOSTS LIVE FOLK MUSIC CONCERT

Dec. 14: Indoor Acoustic Music Concert. Acoustic music featuring Bear and Robert w/opener Ken Holt A/K/A The Promise. Suggested Donation $15 or $10 for members of CFF or WP Library. Winter Park Public Library. 1052 W. Morse Blvd. Winter Park, FL 32789. Start time of 2:00 pm. cffolk.org

A CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Dec. 14-15: The Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra will be joined by the Bach Festival Youth Choir for this joyous celebration, a Central Florida tradition of cherished hymns and beloved carols. 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

THE GRINCH

Dec. 16: Take a trip to Whoville in this whimsical holiday production filled with music, choreography and laughter as a formerly miserable Grinch learns the true meaning of Christmas. 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org

ORLANDO GAY CHORUS—MERRY EVERYTHING, THE GAYEST TIME OF YEAR

Dec. 16: Join the Orlando Gay Chorus for a holiday spectacular. Explore Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa traditions while enjoying holiday songs from around the world. 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com

CHRISTMAS SWING WITH THE GREAT AMERICAN BIG BAND

Dec. 18: Join the Big Band and their friends—Bing, Rosemary, Cab, Glenn, Artie and Benny—as they 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

PHANTASMAGORIA’S AN EVEN MORE HAUNTED VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS 

Dec. 19: Gather ‘round the hearth with Central Florida’s one and only Victorian performance troupe as it weaves tales both whimsical and macabre in a spirited approach to Christmas. 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com

GREAT AMERICAN BIG BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT

Dec. 20: Sing along with your holiday favorites as this 1940s big band transports listeners to another era for a spirited Christmas celebration. 7:30 p.m. Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch  Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford. 407-321-8111. ritztheatersanford.com

Especial Events

ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL—INTO THE WILD

Through Jan. 19: One of the zoo’s most popular events is back, 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. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford. 407-323-4450. centralfloridazoo.org

FLOREX 2024 FLORIDA STAMP SHOW

Dec. 6-7: 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. Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3150 E. New York Ave., DeLand. florexstampshow.com