ChristmasInOrlando.com

ICE! Tickets ON SALE NOW! : 09/01/2009 - 11/14/2009

ICE! at Gaylord Palms
Open Nov. 14, 2009 – Jan. 3, 2010 -- but tickets are ON SALE NOW!

This frozen family experience is Orlando's most unique holiday attraction, hand-carved from nearly TWO MILLION pounds of ice. This wildly popular family experience gives guests an opportunity to visit a frosty winter wonderland of interactive environments and larger-than-life, three-dimensional holiday scenes and sculptures, all hand-carved by a team of international artisans from Harbin, China. Now in its seventh season, ICE! will reflect the theme "A Trip to the North Pole," featuring several new scenes that star Santa and his arctic elves.

ICE! is a ticketed event. For the lowest ticket prices, purchase your tickets in advance, online!

Tickets for ICE! are on sale now! Purchase your tickets online, or call 407-586-4-ICE for more information.

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Leu Gardens Holiday House : 11/09/2009 - 01/07/2010

This holiday season visit the Leu House Museum. Each of 11 rooms in the home has its own theme from Victorian to Art Deco fused with amazing dioramas. Designers from Seminole Community College Interior Design Students and Ron’s Miniature Shop & Museum dedicate their time and trimmings turning the home into a magical holiday showcas

Throughout the historic home, you will find Christmas trees trimmed with botanical ornaments of plants, flowers, citrus and pineapples to reflect the time periods of the 1930s – 1950s. Amazing miniatures will be on display in the Museum. Leu’s Holiday House will reflect the legacy of Harry P. Leu’s love for gardening.

Stroll along the garden's meandering paths shaded by ancient oaks, forests of camellias and giant camphor trees.

The Leu House Museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm with guided tours conducted on every hour and half hour; last tour is at 3:30 pm. The Museum and Gardens are closed on December 25, 2007. Admission to the museum is included in the garden admission. Garden admission is $5 plus tax adult, $1 plus tax child (K-12th grade). Garden hours: 9 am – 5 pm. As always, free admission Monday mornings from 9 am until Noon.

For more information, visit www.leugardens.org, or call 407-246-2620.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Leu Gardens is located at 1920 N. Forest Ave. in Loch Haven Cultural Park, near Downtown Orlando. While in the area, you can also visit The Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra, Margeson Theatre, and Mennello Museum of Folk Art.

Christmas at Magic Kingdom� : 11/10/2009 - 01/04/2010

Guests visiting Magic Kingdom® during the holiday season get a full dose of holiday cheer by strolling along Main Street, U.S.A., where Disney elves have decked the halls with towering Christmas trees, colorful lights, bows and garland. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, toy soldiers, and giant gingerbread men greet guests during special daytime runs of "Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." The parade is included in regular park admission on select dates.

Magic Kingdom Operating Hours

Dec. 1: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 2: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 3-4: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 5, 5: 9 a.m.- 11 p.m.
Dec. 6: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Dec. 7: 9 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Dec. 8: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Dec. 9: 9 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Dec. 10-11: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Dec. 12: 9 a.m.- 11 p.m.
Dec. 13: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Dec. 14: 9 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Dec. 15: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Dec. 16: 9 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Dec. 17-18: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Dec. 19-29: 8 a.m.- 11 p.m.
Dec. 30-31: 8 a.m.- Midnight

Nov. 1: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 2: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Nov. 3-5: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nov. 6-8: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Nov. 9: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nov. 8-9: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Nov. 10: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 11: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nov. 12-13: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 14: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Nov. 15: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 16: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nov. 17: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 18: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nov. 19-20: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 21-28: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Nov. 29: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 30: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Note: times subject to change without notice. Please check with park on day of visit.

Magic Kingdom Parades and Fireworks

"Wishes" fireworks show
Nov. 2-8, 10, 14, 16, 18, 30: 8 p.m.
Nov. 21-28: 10 p.m.
Dec. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16: 8 p.m.

"Holiday Wishes" fireworks show
Dec. 19: 8 p.m.
Dec. 20-29: 10 p.m.
Dec. 30-31: 8:30 p.m.

"Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks show
Dec. 30-31: 11:50pm

"Dreams Come True" afternoon parade
Nov. 1-30: 3 p.m.
Dec. 1 - 18: 3 p.m.

"Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime" Parade
Dec. 19-24: 3 p.m.
Dec. 25 - 31: Noon & 3:30 p.m.

"SpectroMagic" nighttime parade
Nov. 2, 4, 7, 8, 11, 14, 16, 18, 30: 7 p.m.
Nov. 21-28: 9 p.m.
Dec. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19: 7 p.m.
Dec. 20-29: 9 p.m.
Dec. 30-31: 7 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.

Note: Times subject to change without notice.

Explore other theme park events...

There are so many Christmas events in Orlando, you should consider staying the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Christmas at Disney's Hollywood Studios� : 11/10/2009 - 01/04/2010

The Streets of America backlot area sparkles with millions of twinkling lights during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.

The Disney holiday tradition brightens the park, illuminating everything from trees to porches with millions of sparkling bulbs. The spectacle was originally the creation of Arkansas businessman and philanthropist Jennings Osborne. It began 20 years ago when Jennings strung 1,000 red lights as a Christmas gift to his daughter Breezy. Soon, their 22,000-square-foot home was covered in millions of lights ... and the display continued to grow and glow.

After the home exhibit grew larger over several years, the Arkansas Supreme Court ordered the display to be turned off. The million-light display was transported to Disney-MGM Studios* in 1995, where the spectacle continues to grow larger and brighter each year. Some of Osborne's original creations still sparkling brightly at the park today are a giant Mickey Mouse light, dozens of flying angels and Santa Claus light designs.

In 2006, the spectacle was enhanced to include choreographed “dancing” lights that swirl and soar to an exhilarating medley of holiday music every 15 minutes. Bringing the backlot of Disney's Hollywood Studios to life are three-dimensional and motion-based displays. This year's enchanting spectacle results from a crew of 18 electricians working some 14 weeks using six miles of rope lights, 84 angels and 66 snow machines.

*The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will not be featured on November 22, 2009.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Operating Hours & Show Schedule

Nov. 1-7: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 8-26: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
*The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will not be featured on November 22, 2009.
Nov. 27: 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Nov. 28-30: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 1-2: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 3: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 4-6: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 7: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 8: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 9: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Dec. 10-30: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 31: 9 a.m. - 12 Midnight
Jan. 1-4: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fantasmic!
Nov. 2, 5, 8, 12, 16, 19, 22, 25, 26, 30: 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 27: 8:30 p.m.
Dec. 2, 4, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 24-31: 6:30
Jan. 1-4: 6:30 p.m.

Block Party Bash
Nov. 1-30: 3 p.m.
Dec. 1-31: 3 p.m.
Jan. 1-4: 3 p.m.

"Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!" Fireworks
Dec. 31: Midnight

Note: times subject to change without notice. Please check with park on day of visit.

* On January 1 of 2008, Disney-MGM Studios was officially renamed Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Explore other theme park events...

There are so many Christmas events in Orlando, you should consider staying the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Osbourne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights : 11/10/2009 - 01/04/2010

The Streets of America backlot area sparkles with millions of twinkling lights during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, nightly Nov. 10 - Jan. 4*.

After the home exhibit grew larger over several years, the Arkansas Supreme Court ordered the display to be turned off. The million-light display was transported to Disney-MGM Studios** in 1995, where the spectacle continues to grow larger and brighter each year. Some of Osborne's original creations still sparkling brightly at the park today are a giant Mickey Mouse light, dozens of flying angels and Santa Claus light designs.

In 2006, the spectacle was enhanced to include choreographed “dancing” lights that swirl and soar to an exhilarating medley of holiday music every 10 minutes. Bringing the backlot of Disney's Hollywood Studios to life are three-dimensional and motion-based displays. This year's enchanting spectacle results from a crew of 18 electricians working some 14 weeks using six miles of rope lights, 84 angels and 66 snow machines.

* The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will not be featured on November 22, 2009.
** On January 1 of 2008, Disney-MGM Studios was officially renamed Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Operating Hours & Show Schedule

Nov. 1-7: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 8-26: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.**
* The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will not be featured on November 22, 2009.
Nov. 27: 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Nov. 28-30: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 1-2: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 3: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 4-6: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 7: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 8: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 9: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Dec. 10-30: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 31: 9 a.m. - 12 Midnight
Jan. 1-4: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

"Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!" Fireworks
Dec. 31: Midnight

Note: times subject to change without notice. Please check with park on day of visit.

Explore other theme park events...

Santa's Holly Follies Spectacular: a marionette show : 11/11/2009 - 11/29/2009

HO! HO! HO! and away we go with Santa and Superstar Chris Holly for a fun look at holiday traditions around the world! After a few minutes, you’ll forget they're marionettes!

Showtimes: Nov. 11-Dec. 29 [Closed Thanksgiving Day]
Theater is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Reservations are encouraged for all performances. You may pay for your reservation when you arrive. Additional showtimes may be available during the week. Contact Pinocchio's Box Office for current schedule: 407-677-8831, Ext. 100

Tickets: adults and children 2 or older: $5; children under 2 are admitted free.

For more information, call 407-677-8831, or visit www.pinocchios.net.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The theater recently moved. It is now located inside the Altamonte Mall.

Need to do Christmas shopping? The theater is inside the Altamonte Mall, on the first floor right next to Sears and two doors down from Build-A-Bear Workshop.

This is a David Eaton marionette show. David was a former actor/puppeteer with New York's Nicolo Marionettes, Bil Baird's Show-Go-Round, Sid and Marty Krofft's Les Poupees de Paris. While living in New York David was a resident actor with the popular children's theater touring company, The Prince Street Players.For eight years David appeared on Ohio television as Bozo the Clown, and as the producer/host of The GoodTime Invention.

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 11/12/2009 - 11/13/2009

This popular party, which takes place following regular theme park hours and requires a separate admission, is the featured attraction for 19 nights between Nov. 10 and Dec. 18. (Specifically Nov. 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29; Dec. 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 18.)

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

The “Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” celebrates the festive moods of the season with dancing snowflakes, marching toy soldiers, horse-drawn sleighs, enchanting floats and spirited characters all proceeding through the streets of the theme park in a merry and melodic cavalcade.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

No holiday celebration would be complete without snow -- even in Florida, where the weather outside is hardly frightful. At Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party there is a 100 percent chance of flurries on Main Street, U.S.A each party night. And just in case the sight causes a chill: complimentary hot cocoa and cookies are served as the perfect trimming for a not-to-miss outing for the whole family.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Admission to the party requires a separate admission ticket. Tickets are $59 plus tax for ages 10 and up and $53 plus tax for ages 3-9. (For most party dates, special "advance purchase" discount tickets of $52 for adults and $46 for children are available).

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

This is considered a "hard ticket" event held after park closing, and requires a separate admission ticket. However, you don't have to have a theme park ticket on the same day to attend the special after-hours event.

Many party nights sell out in advance. Be sure to purchase tickets before you arrive. As a bonus, advance purchase tickets are $7 cheaper for most party dates, except Nov. 29, and Dec. 4, 11, 17, and 18. [These dates, incidentally, are "peak" nights and are expected to sell out. Take note if you are looking for a lighter attendance party.]

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

If you have children in strollers, there is a good chance they may be sleeping by the end of the night. Remember to bring a blanket to keep them warm. If you are watching the parade, be careful to choose a viewing spot that is legal in the eyes of Disney's security. Proactively ask their "cast members" if your spot is acceptable, as many areas are deemed "no stroller zones" but are not marked as such. Their employees will not hesitate to make you move the stroller, even if it contains a sleeping infant.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

There are so many Christmas events in Orlando, you have to stay the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season, including the annual ICE! attraction. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Children�s Miracle Network PGA Golf Classic : 11/12/2009 - 11/15/2009

The PGA TOUR returns to Walt Disney World Resort for the 39th consecutive year Nov. 12-15 when the Vacation Kingdom hosts the 2009 Children’s Miracle Network Classic. The final official-money event of the year, the Classic has a $4.7 million purse, including $846,000 for the winner.

In last year’s event, Davis Love III shot an 8-under 64 on the final round to narrowly hold off a late challenge from Tommy Gainey for a one-shot win. The victory, which served as Love’s 20th on tour, moved him into the No. 1 position in lifetime earnings at the Classic, passing Tiger Woods and Vijah Singh, and securing the fan favorite a lifetime exemption on the PGA TOUR.

The Children’s Miracle Network Classic, Central Florida’s longest-running professional golf event, is aimed at improving the lives of children. It is played just a pitch and a putt from Magic Kingdom on Disney’s Palm and Magnolia golf courses. The two Joe Lee-designed courses annually provide a competitive environment for the 128-player nd Magnolifield, while spectators are treated to a backdrop of Florida woodlands and sparkling lakes. More information is available online by visiting www.childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com.

There are so many golf tournaments in Orlando, but for this one, you have to stay the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, has chosen the same week to debut an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions, including the popular ICE! carvings attraction, featuring the breath-taking work of the famed carvers of Harbin, China. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks will begin to feature family activities for the holiday that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Scheduled Space Shuttle Launch : 11/12/2009

Scheduled lauch: 4:22pm ET

Space shuttle Atlantis will deliver components including two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm to the International Space Station.

SeaWorld� The Polar Express Experience : 11/13/2009 - 01/03/2010

This holiday season, guests are invited to jump aboard The Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld for a magical trip to the North Pole. Debuting Nov. 13, 2009 and continuing through Jan. 3, 2010, SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into a thrilling expedition to the fabled Santa Town.

The Polar Express Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg.

This heartwarming adventure begins with a three-minute preshow telling the story of a young boy lying awake on Christmas Eve, just before midnight. Straining to listen for the elusive sound of ringing bells aboard Santa's sleigh, the boy is jolted out of bed from the thunderous roar of The Polar Express arriving to take him on a fascinating adventure to the North Pole. Guests then embark upon that same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience. Recreating classic scenes from the movie in a multi-sensory experience, The Polar Express Experience immerses guests with lighting, scent, sound and motion to transport them to the North Pole ... and into the spirit of the season.

When guests arrive at their destination, they step off the train and into the movie itself. Temperatures drop and holiday spirits soar as the travelers arrive at the frozen North Pole, complete with towering Christmas tree, gift-laden sleigh, village decor and Santa himself. The journey continues as guests also encounter other inhabitants of the North Pole -- the animals themselves -- including graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears and giant walruses.

Stunning Shows

In addition to this stellar holiday attraction, SeaWorld also offers an array of festive shows and seasonal additions. The exact schedule has not yet been announced. In 2008, however, guests could join Shamu for the holidays during "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles." This captivating show helps guests celebrate the holiday season as a time filled with hope and peace and just possibly, miracles. The 22-minute production came to life daily through Dec. 25 at Shamu Stadium.

Guests may also witness a winter wonder as snow flurries descend from up above, and jewels of water and light adorn the night during the "Christmastide" holiday fountain show -- a seasonal spectacular where water seemingly dances to the beat of Christmas music through Dec. 25.

"Mistify," a nighttime finale Dec. 26 - 30, took place on SeaWorld's center lake and features larger-than-life marine creatures on 60-foot mist screens, 100-foot fountains, flames on water and dazzling fireworks.

Families enjoyed strolling through the Waterfront's array of gift shops and restaurants all while listening to the joyful tunes of singers, musical quartets and the "Sizzlin' Pianos" show that ignite the spirit of the season.

Holiday Festivities

As the sun sets over the harbor, the Seafire Inn celebrates the Christmas season Hawaiian style with the Makahiki Christmas Luau. Enjoy the festive celebration of authentic Christmas music, costumes and dances including a special rendition of "O Holy Night". The excitement is non-stop in this festive, fiery show that celebrates man’s co-existence with the earth and sea. Nightly mid Nov. - early Jan. Advance reservations can be made by calling 1-800-327-2420.

For more information, guests may visit online http://www.seaworld.com/ or call (800) 327-2424.

Explore other theme park events...

There are so many Christmas events in Orlando, you have to stay the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

SeaWorld� - Makahiki Christmas Luau : 11/13/2009 - 01/03/2010

As the sun sets over the harbor, the Seafire Inn celebrates the Christmas season Hawaiian style with the Makahiki Christmas Luau. Enjoy the festive celebration of authentic Christmas music, costumes and dances including a special rendition of "O Holy Night." The excitement is non-stop in this festive, fiery show that celebrates man’s co-existence with the earth and sea. Nightly Nov. 13 - Jan. 3. Advance reservations can be made by calling 1-800-327-2420.

Park admission is not required for the luau. Likewise, the price of the luau does not include park admission.

For more information or menu, guests may visit online http://www.seaworld.com/.

Explore other theme park events...

There are so many Christmas events in Orlando, you have to stay the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art : 11/13/2009 - 11/22/2009

Festival of Trees celebrates its 23rd anniversary in 2009. For ten magical days, the Orlando Museum of Art is transformed into a glittering holiday wonderland where trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses ignite holiday spirit.

Stroll through rooms of dazzling decorated trees, wreaths and vignettes which are available for purchase. The Gingerbread Village, Toyland Town and Christmas Village are great for the young and the young at heart. Shop to your heart’s content at the Holiday Boutique and Holiday Garden.
Special events include a special opening night party, the Holiday Jazz Stroll and Reindeer Romp. Guests are also offered the opportunity to take a break and enjoy some entertainment provided by local area choirs, schools, dance groups, orchestras, a caroling company, a ballet company and individual performers, and to visit the Festival Café, for lunch or refreshments.

2009 Special Events
Festival of Trees Opening Night: Friday, Nov. 13
Reindeer Romp: Wednesday, Nov. 18
Holiday Jazz Stroll: Friday, Nov. 20

Full 2009 schedule and ticket prices have not yet been announced.

For more information, call 407-896-4231 (ext. 254 or 221) or visit www.councilof101.net.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The Reindeer Romp is an excellent event for children, with many activities including Santa, photos, food, crafts, and fun!

If you visit during "general admission" days, children will enjoy Toyland Town, featuring an opportunity to decorate a "handmade" tree, make ornaments to take home, or shop for gifts!

Stroll among the delightful "forest" of designer trees and vignette settings sponsored and created by Central Florida community members. Each unique tree is available for purchase for you to enjoy in your home. Or, purchase a special tree and donate it to your favorite charity for the holiday season.

Santa Arrives at the Mall at Millenia : 11/13/2009

Santa's Arrival

Celebrate Santa's Arrival at The Mall at Millenia from 6pm to 7:30pm. The Mall's main entrance will transform into a wondrous outdoor scene with a special effects production show that promises to be a one-of-a-kind holiday delight.

A DJ kicks off the holiday fun at 6 pm with an energetic dance party and stage show filled with lights, pyrotechnics and snowflakes cascading from the sky. Non-stop entertainment includes stilt walkers, magicians, Mrs. Claus, the elves, and a host of whimsical Hollyville characters. At 6:45 pm, all eyes look to the skies to catch the rooftop arrival of Santa in a magical, enlightening moment.

Santa Photos will begin at 7:30pm this evening.

Keepsake Photos with Santa

Santa will be on-site for visits throughout the season during mall hours; candid color photos, sepia-hued black and whites and CD-Rom images are available for purchase.

Please be aware that you may experience long lines during weekend visiting hours. Recommended visiting times are Monday-Friday 10am-11am, 3pm-5pm or 7pm-Closing.

34th Festival of the Masters presented by Sharpie� : 11/13/2009 - 11/15/2009

More than 150 award-winning artists who work in media from clay to wood, metal and mixed media to oils and watercolors – jewelry artists, painters, photographers, sculptors and more – will show off their works Nov. 13-15 at Downtown Disney during one of the Southeast’s most highly regarded juried art festivals.

To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and samples of their art to a jury of art experts who select the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the Festival will be treated to one of the finest collections of art in the nation.

A festival for art-lovers of all ages, the 34th annual ‘Masters’ includes live music and entertainment, chalk art sidewalk displays and family activities. Concurrently, House of Blues at Downtown Disney will present its 11th annual Folk Art Festival – Where Art Meets the Soul.

Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission and parking are complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, guests may contact 407/824-4321 or visit disneyworld.com/artfestival.

ICE! at Gaylord Palms : 11/14/2009 - 01/03/2010

ICE! at Gaylord Palms

Nov. 14, 2009 through Jan. 3, 2010

Prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms^� Resort presents ICE! An instant dose of winter, this spectacle is made from two million pounds of ice!

In its seventh season, ICE! will reflect the theme "A Trip to the North Pole," featuring several scenes that star Santa and his arctic elves.��

Another popular element, the ICE! castle and slides, will celebrate Santa's Christmas Eve flight... reindeer and all.�

The attraction's signature scene, a breathtaking life-size Nativity carved completely of crystal-clear ice, has been described as one of the most breathtaking depictions of the birth of Christ. Dramatic lighting and a stirring narrative track ensure guests continue to pause and reflect on the story behind the season.

The attraction is carved by a team of�38 artisans from Harbin, China. The talented artisans spend nearly an entire month in Kissimmee creating this one-of-a-kind attraction. Harbin is best known for its annual International Ice and Snow Festival, where�each year more than 2,000 sculptors carve a 100-acre walk-through Ice Park.

Put away the flip-flops, this event is a chilly 9 degrees! But, don't worry, we've got plenty of hooded parkas to keep you warm!

Your ICE! experience continues throughout the resort, with Best of Florida Christmas at Gaylord Palms, a celebration of the holidays in the Sunshine State.

ICE! is open daily, including holidays.� Event hours vary throughout "ICE! season."� For a complete calendar of events, visit the ICE! Website.

NOTE: ICE! is kept at a frigid 9 degrees. Be sure to dress appropriately; closed toe shoes and long pants are required. You may also want to bring mittens or a hat. Hooded parkas will be provided for your warmth and comfort inside the exhibit. For the sake of good fashion, we suggest leaving the leg warmers at home!

Fun Facts About ICE!

2,000,000 � total pounds of ice used to create ICE! The ice is created to our exact standards at a factory in Cairo, Georgia. It is shipped to Kissimmee in a semi equipped with a refrigerated trailer.

5,000+ � number of blocks of ice that are hand carved and transformed into a winter wonderland. The enormous blocks of ice arrive in nearly a dozen colors,�including lavender, blue, pink, orange and yellow.

1,500+ � number of specially designed LED tube lights that are frozen within the ice, creating a magical holiday experience that �pops.�

More than 18,000 � the total square feet of space is covered by the ICE! attraction. Kept at a brisk 9 degrees Fahrenheit, the unique structure housing ICE! is also known as the �Florida Fridge.� It is believed to be the first of its kind in North America.

9 degrees - the average temperature inside �The Florida Fridge.�

1 - the total number of gnomes cleverly frozen inside a block of ICE!, part of the resort's Hidden Holiday Gnome Hunt.

8,000+ - approximate miles the team of artisans must travel from Harbin to Orlando (number varies depending on method used for mileage calculation)

Frequently Asked Questions

I understand ICE! is 9 degrees� what should I wear?
All guests are provided calf-length, hooded winter coats to keep them warm. They are not exactly the most fashionable coats, but there is safety in numbers -- nearly every visitor borrows one.� Coats are available in all sizes, including children and infants.� For maximum comfort guests should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Hats and gloves are recommended - and are available for purchase. Think Christmas morning in Alaska...and dress accordingly!

Do I have to wear a "loaner" coat?
We do request that every visitor wear some sort of coat.� Even if you bring your own coat, we recommend using our parkas, as they are made from a special material that ensures a "friction-free" trip down the ICE! Slides.�

Do I need boots?
All pathways through the ICE! exhibit are carpeted, and boots are not required. We do, however, recommend wearing comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes.

Is ICE! wheel-chair and stroller accessible?
The ICE! attraction is accessible by both wheel chairs and strollers. Although a limited number of wheel chairs are available on-site, to minimize waiting times, guests requiring a wheel chair may bring their own.

May I take photos?
Guests are welcome to bring cameras and take photos of the ICE! attraction. Many of our guests experience a "fogging" of the lens when exiting into warmer temperatures. This, however, usually goes away once the camera warms up. Please check the manufacturer information regarding the cold tolerance of your camera equipment. But let's face it, your northern cousins have been taking winter photos outdoors for decades.� Gaylord Palms� Resort is not responsible for damage to any camera equipment caused by the extreme cold temperature. For your convenience, single-use cameras are available for purchase.

Can I lick the ice?
Come on...what kind of question is that? Of course you CANNOT lick the ice.

What else is there to do at Gaylord Palms?
ICE! is just one component of our Best of Florida Christmas celebration, kicking off Nov. 14 and running through Jan. 3!�Other highlights include:

The Majestic Christmas Tree, perched atop Castillo de San Marcos Fort, towering more than 70 feet above Emerald Plaza.
Four Holiday Shows, including the marquee performance "Luminescence - A Deeper Meaning"
The Hidden Holiday Gnome Hunt, a festive family hunt throughout the atriums to spot cleverly hidden gnomes
Christmas in Florida: The County Wreath Collection, an exhibition of wreaths decorated to reflect Florida's diverse destinations, from coast to coast.
Santa Visits, in person or via email.
Sunday Brunch with Mrs. Claus.

In addition, guests can enjoy themed decor and holiday lights throughout each of the resort's three atriums.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

ICE! is very popular with Orlando residents. Consequently, more people visit the attraction on Saturdays than any other day. Visitors who arrive in the morning or on weekdays report a more "exclusive" experience. A bonus: weekday tickets are cheaper than weekend tickets.� In addition, visitors on busier days (such as Saturdays) are required to choose a "time block" for admission, when purchasing advance tickets.� This ensures an even flow of visitors throughout the day, and should reduce waiting times.

To save time at the attraction, purchase your tickets online in advance. Guests who purchase online receive a discount on the purchase.

There is a fee to park in adjacent lots. To get this fee validated, dine at one of the resort's full-service restaurants. The restaurants are under the hotel's glass-covered atrium, which is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, extending your holiday experience. If you do not dine at the restaurants, the�staff of�ICE!�gives a $1 discount coupon for parking.

Gaylord Palms Resort is Orlando's headquarters for holiday activities. Guests who purchase a Best of Florida Christmas package receive special benefits, including:

Priority Entry to the ICE! attraction, as well as the ability to visit�ICE! multiple times during a stay.
Family Memories Gingerbread Experience, an opportunity to create a family gingerbread house, an experience created just for overnight guests.
Holiday Bedtime Stories, broadcast every night via a special in-room channel.
Character Tuck-Ins, bedtime visits by one of Santa's helpers (additional fee).
Christmas Concierge, our holiday experts who can recommend and help book unique holiday experiences throughout Orlando.�

Gaylord Palms also features room rates�starting at $129 per night�(see website for details).

FUN ICE-RELATED LINKS:�

Follow ICE! and Gaylord Palms on Twitter�

Become our fan on Facebook

Visit the "Behind the Scenes" blog for ICE!

Propose marriage inside ICE!

�

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 11/15/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 11/17/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 11/19/2009 - 11/20/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

Holidays at the Waterhouse : 11/19/2009 - 01/10/2010

Maitland Historical Society presents Holidays at the Waterhouse. The Waterhouse Family is ready to celebrate Christmas Eve with Victorian tree decorations, gifts, a holiday meal on the table and more. Traditions represent a combination of both Victorian and typical Floridian Christmas decor. Guests will find an extra treat on their tour as they search for the annual visitor, the Waterhouse Mouse!

This historic home is located on beautiful Lake Lily at 820 Lake Lily Drive in Maitland.

Regular tour hours and admission appl. Closed on major holidays.

For more information, call (407) 644-2451, or visit www.maitlandhistory.org.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Scoop:

Built in 1884 by pioneer settler and builder William H. Waterhouse as a home for his family, this house has been beautifully restored to reflect the way of life enjoyed by a middle class family during the late Victorian period.

Your first step into the foyer is a step into the past, when Florida heart pine was turned by hand to form an Eastlake staircase; when visitors came “calling,” card in hand, and engaged in conversation seated upon furnishings stuffed with horsehair and wood-wool.

You can almost hear the rustle of Mrs. Waterhouse’s starched skirts on the stair and smell the fragrance of orange blossoms from the groves in bloom in 1884.

On Stage - Dear Santa : 11/20/2009 - 12/20/2009

It is the time of year to peek into the magical and timeless world of the North Pole, bustling workshops, cheerful elves and the jolly old leader himself, Santa Claus. Santa’s efficient, yet frenzied Chief of Staff, the ditzy housekeeper with a secret crush, the high-pressure sleigh salesman and the workshop foreman who does not quite command the English language all combine to keep the place running like clockwork, with the exception of a few mishaps. Soon, a request from one child’s letter throws everything off course and the answer lies in rediscovering the Christmas spirit. Fun for the whole family.

Show times: Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 7pm and Sundays at 2pm

For more information, call 407-896-7365 or visit www.orlandorep.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The Orlando Repertory Theatre is located in Loch Haven Cultural Park, near Downtown Orlando. While in the area, you can also visit The Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra, Margeson Theatre, and Mennello Museum of Folk Art. Leu Gardens is also nearby.

Directions: Exit I-4 onto Princeton St. and follow brown signs to Loch Haven Park. Go through the lights at Orange Ave. and Alden and turn left at the next light- Museums and Theatres. Turn right and veer into The REP parking

Exhibition: Maidens and Monsters : 11/24/2009 - 04/18/2010

The Art of Science Fiction, Adventure and Fantasy... The unexpected, the eerie and the uncanny will be introduced in this fresh and surprising view of American illustration, high lighting some of the exotic adventures, fantastic fables and romantic encounters told in magazines and books published between 1914 and 1995. Drawn from the acclaimed Korshak Collection, the 50 original works feature 22 pioneering illustrators including N.C. Wyeth, J. Allen St. John, Frank R. Paul, Hannes Bok, Margaret Brundage and Frank Frazetta.

Entrance into the museum is $5 for adults; $4 for seniors; $3 forstudent; and children under 12 yrs are admitted free. Closed Thanksigiving and Christmas Day. For more information, call: 407-647-6294, or visit www.polasek.org

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In Winter Park, the Florida retirement home of internationally acclaimed sculptor Albin Polasek has become one of the region’s
preeminent cultural spots: The Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens. Polasek retreated to Winter Park in 1950 and opened his three acre estate to the public in 1961. Approximately 200 of the 400 works attributed to the Czech-born artist are on the museum property, including his signature, award-winning sculpture, Man Carving His Own Destiny. After his death in 1965, his studio, home and galleries were opened to the public and the museum was created. This breathtaking property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Thanksgiving at Villa de Flora : 11/26/2009

Whether its noon or night, you�ll find a Villa de Flora holiday meal to write home about.� It�s no wonder that holiday reservations at Villa de Flora �sell out� every year.� Why?� For one, the restaurant has been voted Florida�s best brunch for years by readers of Florida Monthly magazine.��On Thanksgiving Day, Chef Edwin Martinez and his entire culinary team plan what can only be called the �Super Bowl� of holiday feasts.�

This�"European�market" will feature chefs�stationed at six kitchens, featuring a seasonal market-inspired menu of more than 100 items.

Indeed, Thanksgiving Brunch at�Villa de Flora is an all-day feast.�On the menu?��The kitchens will feature items like sage-rubbed roasted turkey breast, fresh crepes, Mediterranean-rubbed prime rib, and sweet potato casserole with caramelized marshmallows.

Brunch will be served from Noon until�10 p.m.

THIS EVENT TYPICALLY SELLS OUT EARLY.� Make reservations today by calling 407-586-1114.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Brunch at Villa de Flora, oft named top brunch in the state by readers of Florida Monthly, historically sells out early.�� The restaurant expanded last year to include special atrium seating in nearby Emerald Plaza.

If you can't get reservations for Brunch, you might try breakfast, which�will be served from 6:30 a.m.�until 11 a.m.

After�your meal, visit ICE!, the�Gaylord Palms holiday attraction hand carved from nearly TWO MILLION pounds of ice!�

Other Gaylord Palms dining experiences:

Old Hickory Steakhouse features an upscale Thanksgiving on its menu.� �It will open an hour early, at 4:30pm for dinner.� For reservations, call 407-586-1600.

Or, unwind and relax at Sunset Sam's Fish Camp for a Thanksgiving Day Special which features fresh seafood, for a Thanksgiving with a Florida twist.

NCAA Old Spice Classic : 11/26/2009 - 11/29/2009

Eight of the nation’s top NCAA men’s basketball teams – including 2009 NCAA tournament participants Florida State, Marquette, Michigan and Xavier – will be in action at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex Thanksgiving weekend for 12 games in three days, Nov. 26, 27 and 29.

This year’s Old Spice Classic also includes Baylor and Creighton, both participants in the 2009 National Invitational Tournament, as well as Alabama and Iona.

Each team will compete in one game per day at The Milk House, with the two remaining undefeated teams meeting in the championship match Sunday, Nov. 29.

Last November at the Milk House, then-No. 10 Gonzaga won the 2008 Old Spice Classic with a 83-74 victory over then-No. 12 Tennessee in the championship game. Previous winners were North Carolina State in 2007 and Arkansas in 2006.

For more information, visit www.oldspiceclassic.com.

There are so many Thanksgiving week events in Orlando, you have to stay the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, is a neighboring hotel to Disney's Wide World of Sports, and it features an amazing schedule of Christmas and Thanksgiving events and attractions, including a wildly popular attraction featuring larger-than-life ice carvings from the famed artisans of Harbin, China. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for the holidays that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Epcot� Candlelight Processional : 11/27/2009 - 12/30/2009

As part of Holidays Around the World, Epcot® presents a longtime Disney holiday tradition -- Candlelight Processional. The extremely popular nightly spectacle treats guests to a grand musical performance by a mass choir and 50-piece orchestra who are joined by celebrity narrators in retelling of the beloved story of Christmas.

Staged at America Gardens Theatre at 5, 6:45 and 8 p.m.

Celebrity narrators scheduled to appear include (subject to change):

Nov. 27-29: Isabella Rossellini (Model and star of films "Blue Velvet" and "Death Becomes Her")
Nov. 30-Dec. 2: John O'Hurley (best known for portraying J. Peterman of "Seinfeld")
Dec. 3-5: Steven Curtis Chapman (Christian music's most decorated star)
Dec. 6-8: – Anika Noni Rose, (the voice of Princess Tiana in Disney's "The Princess and the Frog")
Dec. 9-11: Andy Garcia (star of films "The Godfather III," "The Untouchables" and "When a Man Loves a Woman")
Dec. 12-14: Vanessa Williams (of ABC-TV's "Ugly Betty")
Dec. 15-17: Abigail Breslin (star of film "Little Miss Sunshine")
Dec. 18-20: Whoopi Goldberg (of ABC-TV's "The View")
Dec. 21-23: Brian Dennehy (star of film "First Blood" and "Presumed Innocent")
Dec. 24-26: Edward James Olmos (starred in TV's "Miami Vice" and "Stand and Deliver")
Dec. 27-30: Angela Bassett ("How Stella Got Her Groove Back" and "What's Love Got to Do With It") and Courtney Vance (TV's "Law & Order: Criminal Intent")

Presentations of Candlelight Processional are included with regular Epcot admission. In addition, Disney offers a special "Candlelight Dinner Package," that includes VIP seating and a meal prior to showtime. Call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) to make reservations.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

This show is extremely popular. Expect to queue up at least 60 minutes before the show. Lines begin to form up to 90 minutes in advance!

There are several shows a night. If you can't get a seat, line up at the back of the theater, where the views and audio level are still spectacular.

If you enjoy the music, a soundtrack of the performance is sold at merchandise carts adjacent to the theater.

This is a very serious and dramatic show. Read: you won't find any Disney characters here. It may not hold the interest of smaller children. However, all ages seem to enjoy the overwhelming spectacle.

Candlelight Processional dinner packages, available for an additional charge, include preferred seating for a performance of Candlelight Processional as well as dinner at an Epcot restaurant. To make reservations for these packages, guests can call 407/WDW-DINE.

Candlelight Processional has played an important role in Disney history, dating back to 1958 at Disneyland. For your entertainment, we have compiled a complete historical list of celebrity narrators for the Walt Disney World performances.

Explore other theme park events...

Christmas at Disney�s Animal Kingdom� : 11/27/2009 - 01/03/2010

Jolly jingle will fill the jungle as Disney's Animal Kingdom® is spiritedly transformed for the holiday season. A luminous 65-foot tree sparkling at the park's entrance sets the stage as the holiday season goes on safari.

In fact, the daily “Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade” gets a holiday makeover when it is magically transformed into “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade.” This rompin’ spectacle is a theatrical showcase of characters with whimsical floats and puppetry with a holiday world-beat twist.

Guests also can meet Disney characters decked out in their holiday best at Camp Minnie-Mickey which also features live seasonal entertainment, holiday photo opportunities and decorative Christmas trees.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Operating Hours

Nov. 1-7: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Nov. 8-26: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nov. 27: 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Nov. 28-30: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Dec. 1: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dec. 2: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dec. 3-8: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dec. 9: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dec. 10-14: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dec. 15-19: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Dec. 20-31: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Jan. 1-2: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Jan. 3: 9 am. - 5 p.m.

"Mickey's Jammin' Jungle" Parade
Nov. 1-9: 4 p.m.

"Mickey's Jingle Jungle" Parade
Nov. 1-30: 3:45 p.m.
Dec. 1-31: 3:45 p.m.

Note: times subject to change without notice. Please check with park on day of visit.

Explore other theme park events...

Christmas at Pinewood: A Jolly Jazzy Holiday Home Tour : 11/27/2009 - 01/03/2010

Capture the holiday spirit when you tour the 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion at Pinewood Estate. Come see what's new and different when Central Florida designers transform the 1930s winter retreat into a glittering holiday showcase with this year's new theme, Joy to the World during the 15th annual Christmas at Pinewood Holiday Home Tour. Sponsored in part by Progress Energy and Winter Haven Hospital.

Stunning holiday décor is showcased at the 1930s 20-room classic Mediterranean Revival Pinewood Estate, a National Historic Landmark mansion. The 8-acre estate also features a spectacular winter garden and a 60-bell carillon housed in a 205-foot-tall Gothic bell tower, which rings daily throughout the sanctuary.

Christmas at Pinewood Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets: $8 adult; $6 children ages 5-12; free under 5; $7 members (includes general admission to Historic Bok Sanctuary)

Historic Bok Sanctuary is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For more information call 863-676-1408 or visit www.boksanctuary.org.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The gardens centerpiece is the Singing Tower, a 57-bell carillon set within a 205-foot tall Art Deco tower designed by architect Milton B. Medary. While you're at Bok Sanctuary, be sure to enjoy holiday favorites played on the carillon every half hour and during daily performances at 1 and 3 p.m. (Dec. 1-31).

On Dec. 11 and 13from 7 - 9 p.m., enjoy "Joy to the World at Pinewood Concerts." Inspire your holiday spirit with seasonal selections by Alana Trimmier, Soprano with piano accompaniment. Enjoy the Holiday Home Tour before the performance and a champagne reception after the concert. The concert is limited to 30 people. Tickets: TBA For reservation or more information: call (863) 734-1222

Attend a Christmas Day Concert at 1 and 3 p.m., a recital of Christmas carols from around the world.

Driving Directions: Historic Bok Sanctuary is a short drive from Orlando, and worth the drive! To get to there from Gaylord Palms Resort, take Interstate 4 West to exit 55 and proceed south on U.S. Highway 27 for approximately 23 miles. Proceed two traffic lights past Eagle Ridge Mall. Turn left on Mountain Lake Cut Off Road. At the caution light, turn right (south) onto County Road 17 (also known as Scenic Highway). Proceed on CR 17 for 3/4 miles. Turn left (east) onto Burns Avenue (also known as County Road 17-A). Proceed on Burns Avenue for 1.3 miles. On your left you’ll see a main entrance sign to Historic Bok Sanctuary. Turn left and proceed to the entrance gate.

Visiting with Children: Families visiting the Sanctuary can check out a Reading Basket free of charge at the Information Desk in the Education and Visitor Center. By leaving a driver's license to hold the basket, children can choose one of the three available themed baskets. Each storytime basket contains books, puppets and a blanket for sitting. There are a limited numbers of strollers available on a first-come, first-served basis in the gift shop

Epcot� Holidays Around The World : 11/27/2009 - 12/30/2009

Celebrate the holiday season with the characters, legends and lore from around the globe. Delight in wondrous tales and customs while experiencing the traditions of Walt Disney World® Resort. The signature events include a breathtaking Candlelight Processional and a special holiday-themed finale to the dazzling IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.

Ongoing Holiday celebrations throughout the World Showcase featuring festive food, fun and entertainment from a variety of exciting cultures worldwide include:

Nightly Candlelight Processional at the American Gardens Theatre. Revel in the joy of the season as you listen to an unforgettable retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir.

Shows are at 5:00, 6:45 and 8 p.m.

Scheduled Celebrity Narrators include:

Nov. 27-29 Isabella Rossellini
Nov. 30 & Dec. 1-2 John O’Hurley
Dec. 3-5 Steven Curtis Chapman
Dec. 6-8 Anika Noni Rose
Dec. 9-11 Andy Garcia
Dec. 12-14 Vanessa Williams
Dec. 15-17 Abigail Breslin
Dec. 18-20 Whoopi Goldberg
Dec. 21-23 Brian Dennehy
Dec. 24-26 Edward James Olmos
Dec. 27-30 Angela Bassett / Courtney B. Vance

Performances are included with Epcot admission, and guests are advised to arrive early. Entertainment is subject to change without notice

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth: A spectacular light and sound show every night at 9:30 p.m. at the World Showcase Lagoon featuring a very special holiday finale, which includes the classic song "Let There Be Peace On Earth" and the voice of Walter Cronkite offering a special holiday message.

Holiday Storytellers: Listen to legendary holiday folklore from around the world as told at the World Showcase by the legends themselves, including France's Père Noël, Italy's LaBefana and America's Santa Claus.

Lights of Winter: A festive, synchronized light show set to a joyous holiday score, running nightly at the World Showcase Plaza.
Epcot® Holiday Merchandise: Stroll through the World Showcase and discover festive holiday gifts for the entire family! Visit Santa's Village in America Adventure or stop by France for a delicious gourmet treat. You may even catch a glass blower in Germany putting the finishing touches on a seasonal ornament!

Candlelight Dining Packages: Savor an extra special treat when you ring in the holiday season with a Candlelight Dining Package. Each package includes dining at a select Epcot restaurant and reserved general seating at the American Gardens Theater during the Candlelight Processional. For more information or to make dinner reservations, please call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463).

Epcot Operating Hours:

Future World
Nov. 1-30: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dec. 1-30: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

World Showcase
Nov. 1-26: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Nov. 27-30: 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Dec. 1-30: 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Dec. 31: 11 a.m. - 1 a.m.

Pirate's Christmas Adventure : 11/27/2009 - 01/06/2010

Returning for an encore engagement after sold out performances during the last three years, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure sets sail again to bring you the merriest holiday adventure ever on the high seas.

The infamous band of buccaneers, crew of Pirate’s Dinner Adventure will celebrate the season beginning just after Thanksgiving on November 27th, with a holiday version of their popular nighttime theatrical experience, renowned as the “World’s Most Interactive Dinner Show.”

From November 27 through January 6, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure features an exciting holiday story line, spectacular sets, Christmas music, and a shipload of yuletide surprises throughout the show. Even St. Nick makes an appearance and is on hand for photos, fresh from his journey from the North Pole.

Now Snowing in Downtown Celebration : 11/28/2009 - 12/31/2009

On Nov. 28, 2009, Celebration Town Center kicks off the World Famous “Now Snowing" event.

In 2008, Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier “Snowing” event, introduced all-new snow machines, new decorations and a variety of live entertainment. Now Snowing was a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens Carolers, photos with Santa, the Celebration Express, horse drawn carriage rides, and nightly snowfall.

In 2008, The Now Snowing event ended with a one-of-a-kind New Years Eve Celebration featuring the Reflections Band Live and a fireworks spectacular and final snowfall of the year at midnight. Come enjoy the distinctive shopping and fine dining that Celebration is known for the world over.

Brought to you by Lexin Capital, Now Snowing Nightly parking and admission are free. Celebration is conveniently located between Highway 192 and Interstate 4 near Walt Disney World.

Call 407-566-2200 or visit www.celebrationtowncenter.com for details.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Celebrations' snowfall is created using tiny soap bubbles. Many children enjoy playing in the accumulated "snowfall," getting oddly "dirty" from the "drifts" of soap.

The snow begins at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm for ten minutes.

After enjoying the snowfall, spend some time shopping at Celebration's shops on Market Street.

The town of Celebration marks the holiday season in a bright way... a trip down any residential street will yield thousands of holiday lights adorning homes. Turn on holiday music on your car stereo and enjoy the spectacle!

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra- Home For The Holidays : 11/28/2009

Conducted by Maestro Andrew Lane, Home for the Holidays promises to be a treat for the whole family. Enjoy holiday classics like
White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and many other favorite holiday songs.

Also appearing on the program are the Next Generation Kids, from the Orlando area’s most comprehensive performing arts school of the
same name. Next Generation Kids specializes in "triple threat training"; students study singing, acting and dancing. They have been seen in national tours, professional equity theatres, and professional recording sessions for PBS's Barney. The Kids will perform a variety of
songs with the Philharmonic.

Home for the Holidays will take place at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on November 28.

Please visit http://www.orlandophil.org or call 407-770-0071 for more information.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Be sure to purchase them in advance.

The Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre is located adjacent to the Amway Center in Downtown Orlando. (Amway Center is the new name for the facility formerly known as TD Waterhouse Center and the Orlando Arena)

Directions: (For those traveling East on I-4): Exit at Amelia Avenue and turn left at the light at the end of the exit ramp. Follow Orlando Centroplex parking signs.

The Carr Performing Arts Centre's location adjacent to Amway Center sometimes creates parking challenges for ticketholders. To determine if there is an event that may generate excessive traffic tie-ups in the area and delay your arrival at the theatre, please call Orlando Centroplex at 407.849.2000.

Parking is available for approximately $8.00 in the CentroPlex Garage, across the street from the North side of the Carr Performing Arts Center. There is also Valet Parking available at the Marriott Hotel across the street from the South side of the Carr Performing Arts Center

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 11/29/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

Handel's Messiah : 11/29/2009

For the past 37 years, the Messiah Choral Society has given a free performance of Handel's Messiah at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre as a gift to the Orlando community.

Considered the most magnificent classical masterwork of all time, Handel's Messiah features the "Hallelujah Chorus" and a host of other glorious orchestrations, both choral and solo, many of which contain very familiar melodies

According to legend, Handel's valet would often find him weeping silently at his desk, overcome by the beauty and majesty of the music that he was writing. Although conceived to be performed at Easter time, Handel's Messiah is popularly performed during the Christmas holiday season.

The 2009 concert is the 37th consecutive annual performance and will be held Sunday, November 29 at 3 p.m.

There are no tickets. Admission is Free. Everyone is welcome!

History and Background

The Messiah Choral Society was established in 1973 by Bill Jarvis, a prominent music director at an Orlando church. Jarvis formed the Society because he believed that Handel's Messiah stands by itself as an oratorio worthy of a choral group dedicated solely to its performance. From the beginning, the purpose of the Messiah Choral Society has been to perform Handel's Messiah free to the public and open to all singers. This tradition has continued every year since 1973, with the group marking its 35th season in 2007.

The group's main performance is at Orlando's Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, one of the city's most prestigious venues for artistic events. There are no tickets and there is no admission charge. Instead, the Society raises all of the funds necessary to pay for this spectacular gift to our community, in accordance with the organization's mission since its founding.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips

This is a popular event, so please arrive early! Doors open at 2:15pm.

The Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre is located at 401 W. Livingston Street, adjacent to the Amway Arena in Downtown Orlando. [Note: Amway Arena is the former TD Waterhouse Centre]

Directions: (For those traveling East on I-4): Exit at Amelia Avenue and turn left at the light at the end of the exit ramp. Follow Orlando Centroplex parking signs.

The Carr Performing Arts Centre's location adjacent to Amway Arena sometimes creates parking challenges. To determine if there is an event that may generate excessive traffic tie-ups in the area and delay your arrival at the theatre, please call Orlando Centroplex at 407-849-2000.

Parking is available for $8.00 in the CentroPlex Garage, across the street from the North side of the Carr Performing Arts Center. There is also Valet Parking available at the Marriott Hotel across the street from the South side of the Carr Performing Arts Center

Little Drummer Boy: a marionette show. : 11/30/2009 - 12/06/2009

Based on traditional European puppet plays with the French version of Mr. Punch, this holiday show features a naughty main character, a silly devil, and a hungry alligator with an appetite for his wooden co-stars!

(This show has been funded in part by a grant from the Jim Henson Foundation)

Theater is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Tickets: adults and children 2 or older: $5; children under 2 are admitted free.

For more information, call 407-677-8831, or visit www.pinocchios.net.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The theater recently moved. It is now located inside the Altamonte Mall.

Need to do Christmas shopping? The theater is inside the Altamonte Mall, on the first floor right next to Sears and two doors down from Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/01/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

On Stage - Rent : 12/01/2009 - 12/06/2009

RENT is the classic musical about love, friendship and community, and the seventh longest-running show in Broadway history. Now, RENT is coming to ORLANDO in a new touring production starring original Broadway cast members Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp!

Over the course of its groundbreaking 12-year New York run, RENT transformed the definition of musical theater -- and changed Broadway forever. Set in NYC's East Village, RENT is a modern take on the classic Puccini opera, La Boheme. It tells the unforgettable story of a group of young artists learning to survive, falling in love, finding their voices and living for today.

Times: TBA

For more information, call 407-841-4675, or visit www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/Orlando

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre is located adjacent to the Amway Arena in Downtown Orlando. [Note: Amway Arena is the former TD Waterhouse Center]

Directions (For those traveling East on I-4): Exit at Amelia Avenue and turn left at the light at the end of the exit ramp. Follow Orlando Centroplex parking signs.

The Carr Performing Arts Centre's location adjacent to Amway Arena sometimes creates parking challenges for Bob Carr ticketholders. To determine if there is an event that may generate excessive traffic tie-ups in the area and delay your arrival at the theatre, please call Orlando Centroplex at 407.849.2000.

Parking is available in the CentroPlex Garage, across the street from the North side of the Carr Performing Arts Center. There is also Valet Parking available at the Marriott Hotel across the street from the South side of the Carr Performing Arts Center

On Stage - Every Christmas Story Ever Told : 12/02/2009 - 12/27/2009

Every Christmas story ever told – yes, all of them – in 90 minutes! Three men and a “reingoat” tell tales of Christmas from around the world. Back by popular demand!

This production is produced by the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre professional theater company.

Showtimes:

Wednesday and Thursday: 7pm
Friday and Saturday: 8pm
Sunday: 2pm

Senior Matinees: Wednesdays at 2 p.m. on December 16 & 23

Post-Show Talk-back: Thursday, December 17

Box Office: (407) 447-1700, x 1

Box Office Hours: Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 5PM

You can purchase tickets online at www.orlandoshakes.org.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Performances sell out quickly, as the theater only seats 320. Be sure to book your tickets in advance!

Margeson Theater is located in Loch Haven Cultural Park, near Downtown Orlando. While in the area, you can also visit The Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Florida Youth Symphony Orchestra, Orlando Repertory Theatre, and Mennello Museum of Folk Art. Leu Gardens is also nearby.

Directions to the theatre are as follows: From I-4, take the Princeton Street Exit (Exit 85). Head East on Princeton Street. At the corner of Princeton and Mills (US Highway 17 / 92) turn left. Go one block to East Rollins Street and turn left. The entrance to the free parking area is at the first driveway on the left.

Free parking is available in Loch Haven Cultural Park. A simultaneous event in Loch Haven Park may create a parking challenge. If the lot is full you may find alternate parking at the Orlando Repertory Theatre, the Orlando Science Center garage, or along Mills Avenue. Please allow yourself a few minutes extra arrival time.

History Center Holiday at Heritage Square : 12/02/2009

A Victorian holiday celebration and the lighting of Downtown Orlando's Heritage Square. Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty will flip the switch to light the square at sundown.

Then explore the museum, enjoy musical performances, visit with Santa, create holiday crafts, and more. Entertainment 5:30 p.m.; lighting at sundown (approximately 6 p.m.), followed by opening of History Center. This event ends at 9 p.m.

Admission is free.

Call (407) 836-7010 for information, or visit www.thehistorycenter.org

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/03/2009 - 12/04/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

On Stage - Haul Out the "Holly"Days : 12/04/2009 - 12/06/2009

Ring in the holidays with music from Broadway, film, television, and radio. Fun for the entire family!

Performance times: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; with matinee performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets are: $32; $30 for seniors (62 & older); $24 for matinee performances; and $22 for students.

The Winter Park Playhouse is located in the heart of Winter Park at 711-B Orange Avenue between Minnesota and Fairbanks Avenues.

Directions from the Universal/Disney/Kissimmee Area:
Take I-4 East to the Fairbanks exit, turn right. Go approx. 1 mile to 17/92 (Orlando Ave), turn right. Go approximately 1/2 mile to Orange Ave, turn left. We will be approx. 6 blocks down on the left hand side, across from Goodwill Industries and Watkins Paint. Note: If you come to the railroad tracks, you just missed it

For more information, call 407-645-0145, or visit www.winterparkplayhouse.org

On Stage - It's a Wonderful Life Radio Play : 12/04/2009 - 12/13/2009

Location:

Osceola Center for the Arts
2411 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy
Kissimmee, FL 34744

Details TBA

For more information, call 407-846-6257 or visit www.ocfta.com.

Holiday Family Movie at Leu Gardens : 12/04/2009

Harry P. Leu Gardens presents "Four Christmases," during Holiday Family Movie Night, for a night to enjoy with family and friends.

The Gardens’ gates open at 6:00 pm with the movie showing at 8:00 pm. Tickets are purchased at the door: $7 adult plus tax, $2 child (K-12^th grade) plus tax and free for Leu Gardens Members. Movie showing is weather permitting.

For more information, call 407-246-2620 or visit www.leugardens.org.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Bring dinner in a picnic basket. A blanket and chairs are recommended.

The Leu House Museum will be open during the evening for concertgoers to enjoy the museum decked-out in holiday trimmings.

SeaWorld� Frosty Friends Sleepover : 12/04/2009

Frosty Friends Sleepover invites families to get cozy with animals from some of the chilliest environments on the planet, the Arctic and Antarctic. Guests can camp with the coolest little dudes in town at an animal exhibit like Penguin Encounter! The overnight adventure includes educational games and activities, a pizza snack and continental breakfast. The cost is $78 per person and the date is Dec. 4, 2009. Children should be kindergarten through fifth grade. For more information, visit http://www.seaworld.org/.

Explore other theme park events...

Noche Latina at ICE! : 12/04/2009

A night of traditional Latino holiday fun!

As a salute to Florida�s vibrant Latino community, Gaylord Palms Resort has created a new tradition � Noche Latina at ICE! This after-hours exclusive opportunity will be held from 9:30 -11:30 pm on Friday, Dec. 4, 2009.

Tickets to the event, for sale in advance, include a chance to see the amazing�ICE!�attraction, hand carved from two million pounds of ice.

As part of the ICE! experience, a special Spanish-language pre-show experience will be hosted by a �Latino storyteller,� who will share short stories about Christmas in Puerto Rico and other Latino countries.

After the show, visitors will bundle up and enter the �Florida Fridge,� home to the ICE! attraction. Inside, special Parrandas music will play throughout the frozen family attraction.

In the post-show area, guests will enjoy a cup of caf� con leche or cocoa, while mingling. Traditional Latin holiday desserts will be available for purchase, like arroz con dulce (rice cooked with spices, sugar, milk, and coconut milk), tembleque (a custard made with cornstarch, sugar, and coconut milk), and pudin de pan (a holiday favorite made with bread and custard). A cash bar will available, complete with coquito (a drink like eggnog that includes coconut cream) and other holiday drinks.

Tickets to the event are $19.99 for adults and $9.99 for children. A portion of the ticket�s proceeds will benefit the new scholarship fund for the Hispanic Business Council of the Kissimmee/Osceola Chamber of Commerce.

Purchase Tickets Online�

Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure : 12/05/2009 - 01/01/2010

Universal pulls out all the stops with a live musical starring The Grinch™. This retelling of "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" will have you singing and dancing along with Dr. Seuss's classic holiday tale.

Then stroll around the Who-ville Wonky Tree Lot and take in the whimsical decorations. It's all part of the mischievous holiday celebrations at Grinchmas in Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Grinchmas activities (except character breakfast) are included with your Islands of Adventure theme park admission.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Grinchmas Showtimes (subject to change):
Dec. 5 - Dec. 25: 12p, 1p, 2p, 3:30p, 4:30p, 5:30p
Dec. 26 - Jan. 1: 2p, 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 6:30p, 7:30p

The best place to meet The Grinch is at the Grinch Character Breakfast, featuring a "Seussian breafast of sorts." Breakfast will be available from 8am - 10:30am. on: Dec. 4-6, 10-13, 17-30, & Jan. 1-2. Event is held at Confisco Grille inside Universal's Island of Adventure, and is not included in theme park admission. [Cost is $19.95 for adults, $13.95 for kids ages 9 and younger. Info and reservations: 407-224-4012.]

Explore other theme park events...

Macy's Holiday Parade at Universal Studios : 12/05/2009 - 01/01/2010

The world's most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios®, featuring some of the most popular balloons and floats from the beloved Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. In 2009, the parade will include several new balloons.

You'll also enjoy festive street performers and talented marching bands from around the country. Afterward, stay for the tree-lighting ceremony.

Other Entertainment:

KidZone Holiday Show
Join your character friends as they dance to holiday hits in a live show.

Barney's Christmas Show
Join Barney and his friends for a magical sing-along, clap-along show at A Day In The Park With Barney™.

Blues Brothers Christmas Show
Add some rock and roll to your Christmas with the Blues Brothers! Catch them live, performing holiday favorites like "Santa Claus is Coming To Town" and "Blue Christmas" with snow on Delancey Street at the end of each show.

Universal 360 - A Cinesphere Spectacular
Dec. 26- Dec. 31
Wrap up your day at Universal Studios with the big Hollywood finish of Universal 360–A Cinesphere Spectacular. Through the unique "Cinesphere" technology you'll experience the sights and sounds of some of Hollywood's biggest films projected onto huge spheres in the Universal Studios lagoon, plus one of the largest laser displays in Florida, dazzling pyrotechnics and more! It's the most explosive, jaw-dropping cinematic adventure you've ever seen!

More theme park details...

Cracker Christmas Weekend in Christmas, Florida : 12/05/2009 - 12/06/2009

Fort Christmas celebrates its namesake holiday with an annual festival the first weekend in December featuring holiday arts and crafts. The festival includes Florida Cracker demonstrations, a large craft fair with over 150 crafters, exhibits, great food and more. Demonstrations include broom making, blacksmiths, basket weaving, rope making, spinning, quilting, lace making, wood carving and more.

Christmas is a rural community in East Orange County, located east of Orlando and west of Titusville. The Fort Christmas historical park and museum is operated by the Orange County Parks and Recreation department.

Santa Claus is scheduled to appear from 1-3pm both days

The event begins at 10am and ends at 4pm. For more information, please call 407-568-4149.

Random Christmas Florida Trivia:

On December 25, 1837, a force of 2,000 U.S. Army Soldiers and Alabama Volunteers arrived near this spot to construct a fort which was aptly named Fort Christmas. This fort was only one of over 200 forts built during the Second Seminole Indian War, 1835 - 1842.

The town was originally called Fort Christmas. The "Fort" portion of the town name was dropped in 1892, when the town post office opened.

According to The Ledger, Postmaster Diane Schmidt doesn't seem fazed by the flood of 400,000 wish-list letters addressed to Santa Claus (in Christmas, Florida).

The population of Christmas, Florida was 1,162 at the 2000 census.

Christmas is said to be home to the world's largest alligator, measuring at just over 200 feet. Don't worry... it's made of concrete, and can be found at Jungle Adventures park.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Entrance is free, parking is free across the road from the park.

When visiting Orlando, you can have your holiday cards and letters postmarked with a special Christmas tree cachet that proclaims "Christmas, Florida." The small post office near the historical Fort Christmas site sees plenty of activity during the holidays. However, the post office has a special booth at the festival.

Don't forget to check the operating hours of the post office before visiting.

Christmas is located about 20 miles east of Orlando on Hwy. 50 (Colonial). It's not exactly a hop skip and a jump from Orlando's tourism cooridor. But, hey, it's closer than the North Pole!

Orlando Polar Bear Club : 12/05/2009

It's the premiere of Orlando Polar Bear Club!

Here are details about Orlando's newest (and most bizarre) holiday tradition!

For more than 100 years, members of Polar Bear Clubs around the world have gathered in their bathing suits to "take the plunge" into icy winter-chilled lakes and waterways. While its easy to chalk it up as an oddball Northern phenomenon, the very existence of such clubs have long distinguished Northern cities from Southern towns. Until today.

Orlando is the newest metropolis with a branch of the famed Polar Bear Club. This new organization -- based loosely on the traditions of its kooky Northern counterparts -- will give residents (and visitors) the opportunity to take their own cold-weather plunge through ICE! Orlando's 9-degree holiday attraction hand-carved from nearly two million pounds of ice.

The attraction, carved by a team of 40 artisans from China, features a walk-through winter wonderland of ice sculptures and monuments, all intricately carved from ice. The highlight of the attraction -- four ice speed slides -- will provide a thrilling (and icy) "plunge" for Orlando members of the Polar Bear Club.

The second annual plunge will be held Dec. 5 at 8:30 a.m. Tickets include the only opportunity this season to visit ICE! in a bathing suit. Participants will be named official members of the Orlando Polar Bear Club and will receive a special certificate to commemorate their plunge. A post-plunge warm-up reception will include coffee and cocoa. In addition, participants will be invited to return to the attraction later that morning while fully clothed to enjoy the artistry of ICE!

But why would a person want to run through the 9-degree ICE attraction in a bathing suit?

"The short answer is simple... 'just because'," said resort General Manager Kemp Gallineau. "Because it's fun and memorable -- something to laugh about, brag about and blog about."

"And not everybody can go to Pamplona to run with the bulls," he continued.

The special Orlando Polar Bear Club ticket is available for $21.99 plus tax. For every ticket sold, $7 will be donated to Special Olympics Florida. Overnight rates are available starting at $129 per night.

For more information or to purchase tickets, guests should visit orlandopolarbearclub.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Polar Bear Clubs can be found in cities throughout the frozen North, and much of Canada. But it would be unusual to find such a club in a tropical city like Orlando.

What is a polar bear club? Check out these videos:

ORLANDO POLAR BEAR CLUB LINKS

In Concert: Trans-Siberian Orchestra : 12/05/2009

"From our earliest memories of our lives there is something about the magic of Christmas that makes us believe anything is possible," says Paul O'Neill, the creator and producer of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The same can be said for the group's concert performances, which is one of the top-grossing and best-attended holiday tours of the year.

The show will begin at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra features an orchestral string section, a full rock band, multiple vocalists, a narrator, extensive pyrotechnics and a stunning laser and light show second only to the Aurora Borealis.

Tickets go on sale Sept. 26, via Ticketmaster.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Amway Arena is home to the Orlando Magic, and is in downtown Orlando. It's an easy drive from Gaylord Palms Resort via Interstate 4.

Directions:

From Locations South of Downtown Orlando
1.) Take Interstates 4 East
2.) Take Exit #83B (Amelia Street/Orlando Venues)
3.) Turn left onto Livingston Street
4.) Main Parking Lot will be on your right

From Orlando International Airport
1.) Take SR 436 North to East/West Expressway (408)
2.) Head West on the East/West Expressway to Interstate 4
3.) Head East on Interstate 4
4.) Take Exit #83B (Amelia Street/Orlando Venues)
5.) Turn left onto Livingston Street
6.) Main Parking Lot will be on your right

Pop Warner Super Bowl : 12/05/2009 - 12/12/2009

Disney's Wide World of Sports® Complex will host the 53rd Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer and Dance Championships from Dec. 5 - 12, 2009.

In its 80th year, Pop Warner Little Scholars is the largest youth football, cheer and dance organization in the United States, consisting of 360,000 young people ranging from ages 5 - 16 years old. This is the 15th consecutive year the football fest involving more than 60 teams will be held at the Disney complex.

Pop Warner is the only national youth sports organization that requires scholastic aptitude to participate. Athletes must demonstrate satisfactory classroom progress each year before they are allowed to compete. Pop Warner recognizes first and second team Academic All-American scholar/athletes, and provides scholarships for higher education on a yearly basis.

The Pop Warner Super Bowl is divided into teams competing in Division I and Division II. 64 football teams compete for National Championships in 4 different age/weight ranges (Jr. Pee Wee, Pee Wee, Jr. Midget & Midget).

In order to advance to the Pop Warner Super Bowl, a team must win its respective League Championship as well as the Regional Championship. Each advancing team is guarenteed to play two games at the Super Bowl, with a Tomlin and Warner Champion being crowned in each age-weight division and competition level. Competition takes place on the fields of the 220-acre (80-hectare) Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex.

Playing Pop Warner football and dreaming of grownup football stardom isn’t far-fetched for some youth: Nearly 70 percent of current NFL players played Pop Warner football when they were kids – including stars such as Reggie Bush, Adrian Peterson, Donovan McNabb and Tim Tebow.

The Cheer & Dance championships feature more than 400 cheer/dance squads who compete at the four-day long event. Competitions take place at the Milk House at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex ™. Cheer & Dance Squads compete in 4 different age ranges (Jr. Pee Wee, Pee Wee, Jr. Midget & Midget), as well as two squad sizes (Small and Large) and three competition categories (Novice, Intermediate and Advanced).

Admission fee. For more information call 407-824-4321 or visit www.disneyworldsports.com or www.popwarner.com

There are so many Pop Warner football events in Orlando, you have to stay the night! Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando's holiday headquarters hotel, features an amazing schedule of Christmas events and attractions throughout the season. In addition, Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks feature family activities for Christmas that you'll remember forever. For more information, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

Universal: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Concert : 12/05/2009

Universal Studios is filling their new Music Plaza with a brand-new Christmas concert series featuring the sensational Mannheim Steamroller and chart-topping artists Natalie Cole and Chris Isaak.

The concerts are the latest addition to Universal Orlando's holiday line-up, which also includes Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios.

The holiday at Universal Orlando begin Dec. 5 and run through Jan. 1. As for the concerts:

* Mannheim Steamroller, the iconic holiday music masters who have sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, will perform at Universal Studios on Dec. 5.

* Chris Isaak, who will sing a mix of holiday classics along side his most popular hits, will perform on Dec. 12

* Natalie Cole, a nine-time Grammy Award winner whose hits include "This Will Be" and "Unforgettable," will also perform a mix of holiday classics and popular hits on Dec. 19.

Each concert begins after the scheduled Macy’s Holiday Parade, which is held nightly, Dec. 5 and run through Jan. 1.

The performances will take place at the new Music Plaza, the park's new state-of-the-art, permanent outdoor concert venue, located in the heart of the Universal Studios theme park.

For more information about November and December events in Orlando, including Christmas events at Orlando theme parks, visit ChristmasInOrlando.com.

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/06/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

Little Drummer Boy: a marionette show. : 12/07/2009 - 01/03/2010

This year the popular Christmas show is accompanied by a brief exploration of the origins of some beloved holiday songs.

Showtimes: Dec. 7-Jan.3
Theater is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The theater recently moved. It is now located inside the Altamonte Mall.

Need to do Christmas shopping? The theater is inside the Altamonte Mall, on the first floor right next to Sears and two doors down from Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/08/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

On Stage - A Joyful Christmas Holiday Concert : 12/09/2009 - 12/13/2010

See the music of A Joyful Christmas

Take a magical carpet ride this holiday season into the fantastic visual world of American Folk Artist Jim Shore, better known as Mr. Christmas, and get transported into the inspiring and wonderful music of the season, with international singing star Romina Arena!

Showtimes:
Wednesday, December 9th @ 7:30pm
Thursday, December 10th @ 7:30pm
Friday, December 11th @ 7:30pm
Saturday, December 12th @ 7:30pm
Sunday, December 13th @ 6:00pm

Tickets: $35/$45 ($55 for VIP seats). Tickets are available here: https://www.2gettix.com/ticketing/showdates.php?s_id=241
Info: 407-228-1220

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Learn more about Jim Shore at www.jimshore.com and musician Romina Arena at www.RominaArena.com.

This 900-seat theater, located near Downtown Orlando, is nicknamed the "rocking chair theater" by locals. It recently underwent refurbishments to become the home for off-Broadway musicals and shows. It is known for its 1960s "space age design" exterior.

The theater is located near several popular neighborhoods in downtown Orlando, Baldwin Park and Colonialtown. It is also located within walking distance of a large shopping center development. Consequently, the evening's performance can be combined with a meal at one of downtown Orlando's many restaurants -- or a visit to Babies R Us.

On Stage: It Was A Very Yule Christmas Cabaret : 12/10/2009 - 12/23/2009

Mad Cow Theatre – It Was A Very Yule Christmas Cabaret – Dec. 10 - 23

Enjoy the music of Christmas through five centuries of song, from madrigals, to perennial favorites, to novelty songs. A heart-warming, soul-stirring celebration.

Showtimes:

TBA

Ticket prices vary by days/times. For details, visit http://www.madcowtheatre.com/ticket/index.html.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Mad Cow Theatre is located at 105 South Magnolia Avenue in downtown Orlando. They are between Church and Pine Streets.

Note: Recently the direction of Pine Street was changed by The City of Orlando in order to facilitate better traffic flow downtown. The directions below have been revised to acknowledge this change as well as changes to Anderson Street due to I-4 construction. If you need further instructions, please call the box office 407.297.8788 ext. 1.

PARKING: There is ample parking 1/2 block from the theatre in the Library Garage which has entrances at 119 East Pine Street and 112 East Central Street. If you find the Pine Street entrance closed, continue around the block to the Central Street entrance. There is also street parking on Church, Rosalind, Jackson and Pine Streets. Parking for disabled guests is on Pine Street just before the Magnolia intersection.

HOW DO I GET THERE? For patrons coming from the south including the Attractions areas -- Exit I-4 at Amelia Street. Turn right to turn onto Amelia. At Orange Avenue; turn right. Go several blocks to Central. Turn left (east) onto Central. The Library Parking Garage entrance is 1.5 blocks on Central, just past the Magnolia intersection. Turn right into the Garage, which is directly across the street from the Orlando Public Library.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/10/2009 - 12/11/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

On Stage - Haul Out the "Holly"Days : 12/11/2009 - 12/13/2009

For more information, call 407-645-0145, or visit www.winterparkplayhouse.org

Holiday Choral Concert: Bach Festival : 12/12/2009 - 12/13/2009

Join the Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra in one of Central Florida’s favorite traditions. An essential artistic experience, featuring holiday favorites for the whole family, this year’s Christmas program will bring back favorites from past concerts, as well as feature a sing-a-long with the Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra and conductor John V. Sinclair.

The Saturday concert is at 7:30pm, and the Sunday concert is at 3pm.

The auditioned all-volunteer Bach Festival Choir is the nucleus of the Bach Festival Society, with a membership of over 160 voices from all walks of life who share a love of great music. Many members of the Choir have music degrees, advanced musical training, serve as educators in the Central Florida area, or maintain active schedules as soloists in churches and other venues throughout the community. Others are simply brought to the choir by their love of music.

The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park was singled about by New York Times as one of the premier Bach festivals in the country.

Tickets to the holiday concert range from $20 - $50, and can be purchased online.

For more information, please call 407-646-2182, or visit www.bachfestivalflorida.org

Universal: Chris Isaak Christmas Concert : 12/12/2009

Universal Studios is filling their new Music Plaza with a brand-new Christmas concert series featuring the sensational Mannheim Steamroller and chart-topping artists Natalie Cole and Chris Isaak.

The concerts are the latest addition to Universal Orlando's holiday line-up, which also includes Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios.

The holiday at Universal Orlando begin Dec. 5 and run through Jan. 1. As for the concerts:

* Mannheim Steamroller, the iconic holiday music masters who have sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, will perform at Universal Studios on Dec. 5.

* Chris Isaak, who will sing a mix of holiday classics along side his most popular hits, will perform on Dec. 12

* Natalie Cole, a nine-time Grammy Award winner whose hits include "This Will Be" and "Unforgettable," will also perform a mix of holiday classics and popular hits on Dec. 19.

Each concert begins after the scheduled Macy’s Holiday Parade, which is held nightly, Dec. 5 and run through Jan. 1.

The performances will take place at the new Music Plaza, the park's new state-of-the-art, permanent outdoor concert venue, located in the heart of the Universal Studios theme park.

For more information about November and December events in Orlando, including Christmas events at Orlando theme parks, visit ChristmasInOrlando.com.

Orlando Christmas Parade : 12/12/2009

The Lake Eola Historical District in Downtown Orlando will come alive from 3:30 - 5pm on Dec. 12, with a reimagined Orlando Christmas parade.

The traditional street parade will have a totally new look to go along with a new name called, “The Holiday Sidewalk Sashay.” The procession will circle Lake Eola Park on the inside walkways. Parade participants will ride on decorated golf carts, pedicabs or in 4ft. wagons instead of floats. The entries will be more interactive with the parade-goers as it showcases marching bands, mascots and family pets dressed in holiday costumes.

Highlights of the two hour parade will be featured in the one hour National Holiday Special called, "Santa Salutes the Stars" to air in December. This year, the outdoor Lake Eola Amphitheater will glitter in holiday lights during the nighttime production featuring celebrity singers & dancers from the world of entertainment. Santa and his merry gang of helpers will have a crowd of thousands dancing in their seats from 5:30pm to 8pm.

For more details, visit www.orlandochristmasparade.com

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/13/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

Imperial Symphony Orchestra: Simply Christmas : 12/15/2009

The Imperial Symphony Orchestra perform, joined by author Eric Metaxas, Lakeland Choral Society and Lake Wales Chorale.

Program Selections:
Magnificat by John Rutter
Lakeland Choral Society and Lake Wales Chorale
Uncle Mugsy and the Terrible Twins of Christmas Music by Jean Dane
Narration by the book's author, Eric Metaxas
A Musicological Journey Through the Twelve Days of Christmas
Lakeland Choral Society and Lake Wales Chorale

Showtimes:
Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket pricing is not currently available.

For more information, call 863-834-8111, or visit www.imperialsymphony.org.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

The Lakeland Center is located about midway between Orlando and Tampa. It's an easy 35-minute drive from Gaylord Palms Resort via Interstate 4.

Free Parking is available for this event!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party : 12/15/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

In Concert - Family Force Five Christmas Pageant : 12/15/2009

There's a delicate balance between the intertwining worlds of artistry, entertainment and humor, but for dance-derived alternative rockers Family Force 5, it's an ecstatic equilibrium that remarkably illustrates all three elements. With tongue firmly planted in cheek, the Atlanta-based five-some are just as likely to get the party started as they are to escort audiences into an alternate reality. Even so, the band never compromises album creativity, while simultaneously hearkening back to the days of massive spectacles on tour.

The guys have already let the cat out of the bag when it comes to the gang‟s inaugural holiday offering The Family Force 5 Christmas Pageant (also on Transparent Media Group). The killer collection will feature choice covers of everything from the classic Carol of the Bells to Paul McCartney's Wonderful Christmastime to My Favorite Things from The Sound of Music, all reworked as completely re-imagined dance-derived rock renderings.

According to the group: We've always been really skeptical of a Christmas project because we're not really fans of them in general, but I have to say it's absolutely the most fun we've ever had recording, continues Soul Glow Activatur. We've seriously been banging on pots and pans doing the most ghetto-tech style of a Christmas album ever. But we've played it for a bunch of friends and they've told us they wouldn't normally buy a Christmas album, but this literally feels like a dance party instead of the same old way Christmas songs have been done for the last 75 years.

Showtime: Tuesday December 15 - 7:30 pm

Tickets: $15 ($20 on day of show). Tickets are available here: http://www.theplazatheatre.com/0809_showdetail.asp?EventID=152

Info: 407-228-1220

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

Check out a video of the band here: http://www.theplazatheatre.com/0809_showdetail.asp?EventID=152

Mickey�s Very Merry Christmas Party (Final Nights!) : 12/17/2009 - 12/19/2009

Beginning at 7 p.m. (after regular park hours), guests with tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy a holiday celebration featuring:

Festive live stage shows
The beloved "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade"
Disney characters in their holiday best for meet-and-greets
Castle Dreamlights
"Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," a winter wonderland of dazzling fireworks set to classic holiday tunes.

Guests can get in the spirit by enjoying the "jaw dropping" spectacle of 200,000 twinkling white LED lights that adorn Cinderella Castle, as Disney’s newest holiday tradition, Castle Dreamlights.

During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.

Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening,

Annual passholders and Disney Vacation Club members can buy advance tickets at a special discount price.

To purchase tickets, call 407/934-7639 or visit http://www.disneyworld.com.

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

In previous years, ticketholders were allowed to enter the park (while wearing a special wrist band) beginning at 4pm.

If you wish to be photographed with Disney characters in their holiday costumes, queue up first thing, as the lines are very long at the end of the evening.

There are several stations that offer hot cocoa and cookies. [Last year, they also offered apple juice and apple slices, for the health-minded!] Be sure to enjoy these complimentary treats!

There are two showings of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." For prime viewing, choose the later parade, or grab a spot at the curb at least 60 minutes before the first parade.

Be sure to pack a sweater, as temperatures can quickly drop to an uncomfortable level... especially if you stay until midnight.

Don't forget your camera! There are many holiday "photo opportunities" you won't want to miss.

Explore other theme park events...

In Concert- Michael Andrews A Swingin' Christmas 2009 : 12/18/2009 - 12/19/2009

Look here Kittens and Cats, Michael Andrew and the Atomic Big Band are back for another swingin' Christmas. Michael Andrew's triumphant 6th season at this newly remodeled venue is guaranteed to knock your stockings off and add a holiday twist to your nostalgia martini.

Inspired by the Count Basie Big Band, the Atomic Big Band is a collection of the finest musicians on the planet; they create a powerful, dynamic, and exciting sound as only a world class swingin' orchestra can.

The evening will kick off with pre-show entertainment in The Plaza's very own "Swingerhead Lounge", followed by a night of swingin' music and nutty comedy-hijinx for all ages. You will be sure to experience some of the hippest renditions of all your holiday favorites, as well as internationally acclaimed Michael Andrew originals, like "Mistletoe Mambo".

Showtimes:
December 18- 2:30 pm & 8:30 pm
December 19- 4 pm & 8:30 pm

Tickets: $40 ($55 for VIP seats). Tickets are available here: https://www.2gettix.com/ticketing/showdates.php?s_id=211

Info: 407-228-1220

ChristmasInOrlando.com Tips:

On Stage - Haul Out the "Holly"Days : 12/18/2009 - 12/20/2009

For more information, call 407-645-0145, or visit www.winterparkplayhouse.org

On Stage - Nutcracker featuring Central Florida Ballet : 12/18/2009 - 12/21/2009

The story is based on the classic fairytale story of a Nutcracker toy soldier that comes to life as an enchanted prince and saves a pretty young maiden, Maria, from distress. The Prince takes Maria through a magical journey to the kingdom of “The Land of Sweets.” There they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavaliers who pay tribute and honor Maria with a festive celebration of dance. Enjoy the dazzling sights and cherished music of this traditional holiday experience.

With the choreography of Vasile Pertrutiu and artistic direction of Vladimir Bicov.

Enjoy the dazzling sights and cherished music of this traditional holiday experience. Starring Dragos Mihalcea and Marie Lindqvist of Royal Swedish Balletand 2009 World Ballet’s Gold Medalist - Gleidson Vasconcelos!

Performed at the Linda Chapin Auditorium inside the west concourse of Orange County Convention Center.

For more information, call 407-849-9948 or visit www.centralfloridaballet.com.

Universal: Natalie Cole Christmas Concert : 12/19/2009