By Abigail Bass

Much of the world is bundling up in knitted scarves and furry fleeces for the return of another cold winter season.

But here in Orlando, we’re trading tinsel for sun tans and jingle bells for sandy beaches.

With average high temperatures in the mid-70’s during December, Orlando’s warm winter weather makes it easy to celebrate the holidays in true Florida fashion.

Plus, while you’re in town, you can see The Sunshine State decked out in dazzling displays in time for end-of-year festivities.

If you’re visiting The City Beautiful this Christmas, check out our list of must-do activities for a holiday vacation stamped with sunshine.

A snowman made of sand wearing a Santa hat and sunglasses on a sunny beach.

Here’s how you can celebrate the holidays in Florida style

Key Takeaways

Surfing Santas at Cocoa Beach
We’re all used to Santa riding on his sleigh, but each Christmas Eve, Santa trades in his sleighrides for surfboards over on Florida’s Space Coast.
Starting from Orlando, cruise east on State Route 528 until you reach the city of Cocoa Beach, where you’ll find the world-famous Surfing Santas.
This beloved charity event has helped raise thousands of dollars for local organizations since its start in 2009. Hundreds of volunteers and spectators come together to watch surfers make a splash for great causes, including the Florida Surf Museum and Grind for Life benefiting cancer patients.
From 7:30 a.m. to noon on Christmas Eve, you can catch site of hundreds of surfers hit the water all dressed as The Man in Red himself. There’s also a costume contest spread across five age categories with the chance to win spectacular prizes.
Along with these festivities, guests can also enjoy live music, dance performances, and Surfing Santa photo-ops.

Marvel at Manatees

With the holiday season in full swing, gentle giants are swimming into the seasonal celebration here in The Sunshine State.
If you’re visiting Orlando in December, take advantage of a uniquely Floridian way to celebrate the holidays, which also happens to be peak manatee viewing season. Orlando’s mild winters make this city the perfect place to watch manatees return to the warm waters of our natural springs and preserves.
Blue Spring State Park is one of Florida’s largest manatee gathering sites, and it’s located an hour north of Orlando. Take a sightseeing walk down the elevated boardwalk trail where you’ll be able to overlook dozens of majestic manatees.
Epic Paddle Adventures, north of downtown Orlando, hosts a surreal Silver Springs Adventure Manatee Tour. See gentle giants float in the waters of Silver Springs from your choice of a stand-up paddleboard or clear kayak.
Near Florida’s Space Coast is a beginner-friendly manatee sightseeing tour hosted by BK Adventure. Get up-close and personal with Indian River manatees as they greet you from the waters beneath your kayak.

Winter Wonderland at Wekiva Island
Wekiva Island is a beloved, eco-friendly destination nestled north of Orlando’s hustle and bustle in the scenic beauty of Seminole County.
If you’re looking for a true slice of The Sunshine State this holiday season, take a ride over to Wekiva Island for their annual Winter Wonderland celebration. This locally adored event packs in everyone’s favorite holiday activities, all with a special Florida flair.
Here you can walk through a sparkling Christmas tree forest complete with beautifully adorned trees and Florida palms that twinkle in the night sky. Or enjoy the warm winter weather during outdoor holiday movie showings including The Polar Express and A Christmas Carol.
Little ones in the family will love exploring the whimsical wonder inside Santa’s workshop and making special memories with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Even The Grinch will be stopping by Wekiva Island on select dates to add some Whoville charm to the holiday celebration.

Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down at Gatorland
If green is your favorite Christmas color, Gatorland adventure park in Orlando is the place to be for the holidays.
Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland invites millions of guests each year to uncover the true essence of Florida. And their Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down is here to help guests celebrate the season in Florida style.
Bring your family and see the park deck the halls with creative displays, interactive character experiences, and special holiday-themed entertainment. Wrap up your holiday shopping at the Gatorland gift shop or bring home a taste of The Sunshine State from Sweet Tooths Candy Shop.
Make the holidays undeniably Floridian by snapping a photo with Gator Claus aboard his swampy sleigh, cross paths with the mischievous Krampus Croc, and sing along to festive tunes with the Florida Skunk Ape.
Stay tuned for the release of 2025 dates for the Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down as the season draws nearer.

Celebrate Christmas Under Palms at Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill

Get into the holiday groove by rockin’ around the palm trees and enjoying a delicious meal under the sun.
Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill at Rosen Centre celebrates with its delectable meals and refreshing drinks, all with a Caribbean poolside ambiance.
Start your merry meal with a variety of tropical-themed starters including crispy Key West conch fritters served with Duval Street habanero chili or a smoky St. Kitts fish dip with tender grilled shrimp skewers and sweet tropical salsa.
Dive into a variety of flavorful entrees including the Mojo chicken sandwich with sweet pepper relish and juicy burgers served to your liking. Or keep your meal on a lighter note with freshly prepared salads including the Harry’s salad topped with tangy balsamic dressing.
Every holiday feast calls for sweets, and here you’ll find indulgent delights like creamy chocolate flan and NY style cheesecake with a rich sponge cake crust.
Toast to holiday “cheer” with refreshing cocktails and drinks infused with all the vibrant spirits of the season.

Soak Up the Sun at Rosen Centre

This year, stamp your holiday getaway with the true mark of Florida at Rosen Centre in Orlando.
Our luxurious accommodations make it easy to celebrate the season in Florida style. Soak up the sun at our sparkling swimming pool, savor an unforgettable meal at Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill, or give yourself the gift of pampering at our on-site spa.
If you’re visiting on December 25, be sure to stop by our spectacular Christmas Day Buffet. Gather your loved ones and savor a bountiful holiday feast made to satisfy your cravings and fill your hearts with gratitude. Reservations are highly recommended, so visit our holiday events page to reserve your table.
We look forward to greeting you and your family with sunny smiles this holiday season. Don’t forget the sunscreen!