Best Holiday Light Displays & Winter Events in Central Florida

🎄 Best Holiday Light Displays and Winter Events Around Central Florida

From dazzling light shows to cozy winter festivals, Central Florida transforms into a magical holiday destination every year. Whether you're new to the area or looking to explore beyond your neighborhood, here’s your guide to the best holiday lights and winter events in Central Florida for 2025.

Get your hot cocoa ready—these are worth the drive.

✨ 1. Night of a Million Lights – H2O Water Park, Kissimmee

Once hosted at Give Kids the World Village, this beloved event has found a new home—and it’s better than ever.

• Over 1 million synchronized lights
  
  
• Walk-through displays and immersive tunnels
  
  
• Holiday treats, crafts, and live entertainment
  
  

🎟️ Proceeds benefit a great cause—perfect for families and date nights alike.

🎅 2. DeLand Holiday Parade & Ice Skating at Earl Brown Park

Volusia County brings the charm each year with:

• An old-fashioned holiday parade through Downtown DeLand
  
  
• A temporary ice-skating rink at Earl Brown Park
  
  
• Local food vendors, carolers, and snow machines
  
  

❄️ Yes, there’s snow… in Florida. It’s magical.

🎁 3. Lake Mary Holiday in the Park

Seminole County residents love this local favorite:

• Holiday tree lighting with Santa’s arrival
  
  
• Horse-drawn carriage rides and snow flurries
  
  
• Free family activities and photo ops
  
  

🎄 Held at Central Park near Lake Mary City Hall—walkable and cozy!

🏰 4. Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens – Orlando

For a more immersive, enchanted evening:

• Art-installation-style light show across botanical gardens
  
  
• Synchronized music, glowing sculptures, and themed walkways
  
  
• Great for couples or peaceful solo strolls
  
  

🌟 It’s the perfect Instagram moment—without the theme park crowds.

🚂 5. Magic of Lights – Daytona International Speedway

If you love a good drive-through light display:

• 2.5-mile route filled with animated LED scenes
  
  
• Tune your radio to holiday music as you roll through
  
  
• Great for little ones who don't want to leave the car
  
  

🚘 Hot tip: Go early in the season or on weeknights to avoid long lines.

🧁 Bonus: Winter Garden’s Very Merry Farmers Market

Just west of Orlando, this festive market pops with:

• Seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and fresh greenery
  
  
• Carolers and local musicians
  
  
• A perfect place to shop small and sip cider
  
  

🛍️ Bring your own bag—and your holiday shopping list.

🏡 Final Thought:

Central Florida might not get snowstorms, but it knows how to bring the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking for small-town charm, epic light displays, or festive events for the whole family, there’s something magical happening near you.

The Peterson Group knows the local scene—if you're looking for a neighborhood that gets extra festive, we can help you find it.