ORLANDO, Fla. – The holiday season is officially arriving in Central Florida, and this year’s kickoff weekend is packed with tree lightings, live entertainment, parades, lantern festivals, concerts under the stars and festive cultural celebrations.
Whether you’re looking for family fun, dazzling displays, or a night of music and food, there’s a holiday event for everyone.
Below is your full guide to the major celebrations happening across the region!
🏮 Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild
📅 November 2025 – Jan. 18, 2026 ⏰ Entry times: 6 p.m., 7 p.m., or 8 p.m. (online tickets only) 📍 Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Step into a glowing world of handcrafted, illuminated artistry along a three-quarter-mile trail filled with all-new lantern scenes. From undersea wonders to mythical creatures like ice dragons and unicorns, every corner shines with dazzling color.
This after-hours, limited-time event blends culture, creativity, and holiday magic. Seasonal food and drinks are available for purchase, and guests can explore until closing at 10 p.m.
🎄 Light Up Mount Dora 2025
📅 Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025 ⏰ 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.📍 Donnelly Park, Evans Park & Sunset Park – Mount Dora
A beloved Mount Dora tradition returns to brighten the start of the season! Three downtown parks will come alive with thousands of twinkling lights, live entertainment, fireworks, and a magical holiday atmosphere.
Event Schedule
- 5–7 p.m. — Live Music & Entertainment
- 7 p.m. — Tree Lighting & Fireworks
- 7–9 p.m. — Photos with Santa
- 8 p.m. — Holiday Drone Show
Experience one of Central Florida’s most enchanting light displays. Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late — arrive early and stay for the glow.
✨ Light Up Ocala
📅 Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025 ⏰ 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.📍 Downtown Ocala Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m.
Celebrate 41 years of Ocala’s biggest holiday tradition! With more than 100 vendors, festive food, live entertainment, and an interactive kids’ zone, this event draws thousands each year.
Event Highlights
- Junior Sunshine Parade — 3 p.m.
- Local performers, dance groups & school bands
- Food trucks, arts & crafts vendors
- Special appearance by Santa
- Downtown lighting ceremony at 6 p.m.
It’s one of North Florida’s largest holiday celebrations and sets the tone for the season with music, lights, and community fun.
⭐ An Evening Under the Stars — Lake Nona
📅 Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025 ⏰ 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.📍 Crescent Park, Lake Nona
Enjoy a magical night of music as the OPO Brass & Percussion of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra performs live under the night sky.
Bring chairs, blankets, and the whole family. With food trucks and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the season. Admission is free.
🎁 Tavares Holiday Grinch Fest
📅 Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 ⏰ 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.📍 Wooton Park, Tavares
Celebrate the season with a Grinch-themed festival filled with 70 local crafters, vendors, food trucks, and meet-and-greet photo ops with The Grinch himself.
A family-friendly event perfect for shopping local and getting fun holiday photos.
💃 VIVA! Clermont — Latin Music & Culture Festival
📅 Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 ⏰ 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. 📍 Waterfront Park – 330 3rd Street, Clermont
A full day of music, food, dancing, and culture—all with free admission!
Live Performances Include:
- Frankie Negrón
- Rika Rumba
- Landy Cabrera
- Ultimate Santana Tribute Band
- Santin y Sus Títeres
- Plus salsa classes and more
Festival Features
- Authentic Latin food
- Food trucks & drinks
- Kids’ Club & “Bouncy House City”
- Pony rides
- Non-stop entertainment from morning to evening
It’s one of Clermont’s most energetic cultural celebrations, perfect for families and anyone ready to dance, eat, and enjoy the Florida sunshine.