With the Christmas season upon us, Central Florida’s theme parks have created an exciting variety of holiday events to celebrate the season.
Of these holiday happenings, five experiences stand out, and are a must-see for me this holiday season.
1. Grinchmas
Seeing every Who in Whoville come to life at Islands of Adventure in Universal Orlando Resort is a childhood memory come to life. Though based on the movie, the Grinch and the ever cheerful residents who live in the shadow of Mount Crumpet will always remind me of Boris Karloff’s narration and Thurl Ravenscroft’s singing.
2. Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Already a winter wonderland for wizards, with its snowcapped buildings, Hogsmeade Village and nearby Hogwarts come alive with the magic that is simply spellbinding. The decorations alone are breathtaking, but seeing the enchanting projections dance across Hogwarts Castle is truly a sight to behold. New for 2017 and appearing at both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village (Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure), Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an experience not to be missed.
3. Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail
A winter wonderland of delightfully decorated Christmas trees await guests at Disney’s newest shopping mecca – Disney Springs. This trail of trees features fifteen different holiday trees all dressed up, Disney style, for the Christmas season. With free admission and the bonus of conveniently located options for Christmas shopping, this is a great way to experience the magic of Disney for the holidays.
4. Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays
Expanded to include more marvelous munchies, Epcot’s celebration of the season is a cultural culinary Christmas present that will amaze the senses. Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays is an experience that not only appeals to my taste buds (that terrific turkey dinner) with all of the tempting treats from around the world, but is an educational wonder to walk up to the various stages and learn how the holidays are celebrate across the globe.
5. Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s
Universal Studios Orlando started this tinsel-time tradition in 2001, porting the balloons and featuring floats from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. Now, during Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s, the event continues. With their own larger than life inflatables and Dreamworks based floats, the parade marches across the park earlier in the season.
This short collection of captivating Christmas experiences is just a sample of all the holiday fun found in Central Florida. From Ice! at the Gaylord Palms resort, to the holiday celebrations at Sea World and Busch Gardens, there’s plenty of magic to go around.
What is your favorite Christmas themed event to enjoy at the theme parks? Please share your seasonal selection(s) in the comments below.
Source and Images: ITM archives