Sunny Central Florida may not go with your traditional image of a white Christmas, but the theme parks of Orlando put on holiday shows that are filled with festive fun. If you are in the Orlando area this Christmas (or any Christmas) here are the kinds of events that you can experience:
SeaWorld Orlando has announced that they will feature a ride based on Robert Zemeckis' "The Polar Express."
Warner Bros. Pictures and Iwerks Entertainment are reprogramming the theme park's Wild Arctic simulator ride, and transforming it into a simulated train ride to "Santa Town" for the holiday season. When the ride ends, people will step out onto a recreation of the North Pole. SeaWorld's exhibit of polar bears, beluga whales, walruses and other Arctic animals will also be made up to fit the winter wonderland theme. The new Polar Express ride will debut on Friday and will be in place through January 1st 2008.
The cost and contact information for Seaworld are as follows: Cost: $67.95; $57.95 children; Sea World Drive, Orlando; Telephone: 800-327-2424
Walt Disney World in Orlando offers Christmas and winter holiday themed events at each of its major attraction centers. Disney's Magic Kingdom Very Merry Christmas Party begins will be held through December 21 from 7 pm to midnight. Also, when regular park hours are over, the lights come alive. The tree lighting ceremony and the almost crystallized castle are well worth the price of admission; and, for those who dream of a white Christmas, enjoy the snowfall on Main Street.
Here are the costs and contact information for Disney World: Cost: $51.07; $43.62 ages 3-9; Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista; 407-934-7639
Not to be outdone by Disney or Seaworld, Universal Studios in Orlando offering its own version of Macy's Holiday Parade, including the "actual, authentic" Santa from New York's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Universal also offers entertainment ranging from Barney's Christmas Show to the Blues Brothers Christmas Show.
In addition, Universal is also unveiling a new stage show at Islands of Adventure, called "Grinchmas," to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Dr. Seuss' Christmas story. "Back by popular demand," Grinchmas will feature seven songs on a new stage.
The celebration continues with decorations and special events at Universal CityWalk as well as all three world-class, on-site hotels - Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
Here are the latest costs and information for Universal: one day/one park ticket: $71; $60 children; Universal Blvd. Orlando; 407-224-4243 or visit their holiday website: www.universalorlando.com/holidays.
The nearby city of Silver Springs offers a Festival of Lights, from dusk to 8:30 p.m. from December 14-30. This is an event that you should not miss. It features more than one million twinkling lights and is complete with carolers, stage shows , a boat parade and holiday concerts as well. Here is the contact information and costs for this event:
$33.99; $30.99 seniors; $24.99 ages 3-10; 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd.; Silver Springs; 352-236-2121
Busch Gardens in Tampa also offers annual Christmas events. This year it feature a breathtaking spectacle of music, dance and holiday cheer as well as other holiday experiences scattered throughout the park daily. The costs and contact information for Busch Gardens are as follows: $64.95; $54.95 children; 3000 E. Busch Blvd., Tampa; 888-800-5447
There it is! Orlando and vicinity is a great place for you and your family to enjoy your winter vacation.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Travel Articles
Maui - The 2nd Largest Island in Hawaii
By: David H. Urmann | 18/11/2008
Prince Hotel is an ocean view hotel located at Maui. It has a few luxury rooms for you. Its business center is through the concierge.
Maui Island is considered as the second largest Hawaiian Island. It has 2 seasons in a year, having a mild and unvarying temperature all over the...
Discover the Fascination of Birmingham
By: Karriane Lacinder | 18/11/2008
If you require somewhere to stay after your fun night out, you'll be spoilt for choice in Birmingham. indeed, the city boasts branches of muchmajor hotel chains for instance novotel & the ibis.
Leeds Back Packers Guide
By: Karri Madelline | 18/11/2008
If you would prefer to spend your time in Leeds doing more cultural activities, you'll be happy to know that the city has 9 fantastic museums and galleries. These include the royal armouries museum and the fabulous henry moore institute, so you are sure t
Tulum, Surely a Slice of Paradise
By: EllaV | 17/11/2008
We were like kids, definitely having a blast. Tulum has one of the most beautiful powder beaches we’ve ever seen. It was a surprise to find this piece of partly-undiscovered paradise. The white sand beach was never really crowded. This is the place where one should go if looking for the perfect retreat from modern city life.
Friendly Vacationist Information for Leeds
By: Karri Madelline | 17/11/2008
As well as fabulous shopping and culture, Leeds also boasts fabulous culture. From elite cocktail bars and quaint pubs to gay venues & impressive night clubs, the city truly boasts something for everyone.
Singapore Unlimited
By: Kevin Laura | 17/11/2008
Feel the difference, as Singapore with its diverse culture maintains a discrete uniqueness from the other part of the world. Natural pictographic surroundings add to the charm of Singapore.
Jungle Walla - Nature Appreciation, Exploration and Conservation
By: Stampede Design | 17/11/2008
JungleWalla was set up in 1994 in Langkawi Malaysia, to educate people as to the richness of Langkawi's natural history. The JungleWalla philosophy is to present trips in a pleasant, thought-provoking manner, while encouraging questions along the way. JungleWalla caters to families, schools, and companies. JungleWalla especially welcomes companies, and organizes corporate team building activities that promote environmental protection and corporate social responsibility.
Paris for Short Term Rentals
By: Robert | 17/11/2008
If you want to rent an all-furnished apartment in Paris, a standing apartment, for romantic walks or for business, you need to know a few elementary rules.
More from Mark Whichard
Orlando Vacation Villas: A Classy But Economical Way to Enjoy a Disney Vacation
By: Mark Whichard | 02/11/2008 | Travel
It's rare when you can combine both economy and luxury, but when it comes to vacation accommodations in Orlando, Florida it is indeed possible. The secret of getting luxurious accommodations at a bargain price is to rent an Orlando vacation villa instead of staying in a hotel. In case you...
Orlando Vacation Condos: The Most Economical Accommodations You Can Get
By: Mark Whichard | 02/11/2008 | Travel
Rising costs and a weakening economy may get you wondering how on earth you can enjoy a planned vacation at Disney World. There is no reason to cancel your plans because accommodations in the Orlando area are probably much cheaper than you have imagined. The secret to getting the most...
Orlando Vacation Condos: The Perfect Accommodations Choice For a Disney World Vacation
By: Mark Whichard | 02/11/2008 | Travel
A vacation in Disney World in Orlando, Florida is surely something to look forward to, but a successful vacation also requires some preparation especially when it comes to choosing accommodations. In case you are still deciding on where to stay when you visit the Orlando area, let me explain some...
Orlando Vacation Homes: Treat Yourself to a Luxurious Disney Vacation
By: Mark Whichard | 02/11/2008 | Travel
If you are traveling with a large group or a big family and want to enjoy luxurious accommodations at the best possible price, then the best way to do it is by renting one of the many Orlando vacation homes located near Disney World.
During the past ten years there has...
Disney Holiday Homes: Comfort, Convenience and Economy All in One!
By: Mark Whichard | 24/09/2008 | Travel
If you are going to make Orlando your next holiday or vacation destination then you are practically guaranteed to have the time of your life. Orlando, with Disney World and countless other attractions, provides enough entertainment to keep your busy for not just one but several vacations or holidays. However,...
Disney Home Rentals: The Economical Way to Enjoy a Disney World Vacation
By: Mark Whichard | 24/09/2008 | Travel
A vacation in Disney World in Florida is the dream of many people but the costs of a vacation in the Orlando area can really add up if you are not careful. One of the best ways to cut costs, while not taking away from the fun, is to get...
Orlando Vacation Home Rentals: Everything You Need to Enjoy Your Disney Vacation
By: Mark Whichard | 24/09/2008 | Travel
Savvy vacation goers in Orlando have been flocking to vacation home rentals as their accommodations choice, and that is why the area offers a great variety of homes to choose from. In case you are wondering what the big attraction of vacation home rentals (as opposed to staying in a...
Orlando Villa Rentals Offer Stylish But Affordable Vacation Accommodations
By: Mark Whichard | 24/09/2008 | Travel
If you are about to set off on a vacation in Orlando, Florida then you should be ready for a vacation destination that is like no other. Orlando has enough attractions to keep you entertained and busy for not just one but several vacations or holidays. However, just as you...
Travel 
