Let's explore some of Orlando's most enchanting Christmas performances and entertainment. As the holiday season draws near, the air in Orlando becomes infused with a magical charm that calls couples to explore the city's romantic side. Amidst the glittering lights, festive decorations, and the unmistakable scent of seasonal treats, Orlando is full of memorable holiday date nights. While there are plenty of FREE holiday concerts, there are a number of holiday concerts in Orlando that are worth the price of admission.

Whether you're a local looking to rediscover the romance in your own city or a visitor eager to experience the magic of Orlando during the holidays, this guide will help you plan a festive date night enjoying the sounds of the season. 

Orlando's Holiday Shows & Performances:

Whether you’re a fan of traditional ballets, festive concerts, intimate theater productions, or the serenade of a live performer, there’s something for everyone in Central Florida’s repertoire of holiday productions.

JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Spa

Here we'll explore Orlando's enchanting Christmas performances that will fill your heart with holiday cheer.

Cirque: Spirit of Christmas

This Christmas at Gaylord Palms, witness breathtaking acrobats, aerialists, and beloved holiday music. It’s a dazzling family-friendly show that blends dare-deviling athleticism with a musical mix of seasonal favorites.

When: November 19th – December 31st, 2023
Performances at 12:30pm – 6:30pm Sunday – Friday with an additional 8:00pm performance on Saturdays only.
Where: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
6000 W Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746

Tickets starts at $9.99 for matinees and $19.99 for evening showings.

“A Christmas Carol” at Orlando Shakes

Charles Dickens' timeless classic, “A Christmas Carol” comes to life at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformative journey as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. This production offers a fresh take of the beloved tale.

When: November 29th to December 24th, 2023; times vary
Where: Orlando Shakespeare Theater
812 E Rollins St, Orlando, FL 32803

A Christmas Carol Stage with mood lighting
A Christmas Carol Stage Orlando – @orlandoshakes

Tickets prices vary on dates, times, and seating.

Also check out Chase Padgett: 6 String Christmas, December 14th-23rd, 2023.

UCF’s Knights Season of Joy

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of the festive season with UCF’s Knights Season of Joy. This special event features the UCF choirs, UCF Symphony Orchestra and music faculty, and vocal jazz quartet “RESOLVE”. This event is great for people of all ages, so come for a jovial experience that the whole family will enjoy!

UCF's Knights Season of Joy Concert choir on stage
UCF's Knights Season of Joy Concert – from drphillipscenter.org

When: Sunday, December 3rd at 7:00pm
Where: The Dr. Phillips Center of the Performing Arts
455 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Tickets from $39.50

Christmas at the Movies: A Very Merry Sequel

Step into all your favorite stories as the CFCArts Community Choir presents its annual holiday extravaganza, Christmas at the Movies: A Very Merry Sequel. This year's concert will feature a stunning collection of music from beloved holiday films performed by the 300-voice Community Choir and members of the Symphony Orchestra. Groups of 8 or more can save 20% with code CATM20.

When: Thursday, December 7 at 7:30pm
Where: Northland Church
522 Dog Track Rd., Longwood, FL 32750

Orlando Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

Orlando Ballet celebrates its 50th anniversary of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” ballet. Don’t miss this Broadway-caliber show featuring enchanting choreography, costumes, and sets, while staying true to the traditional story.

This beloved holiday tradition features world-class dancers and this magical performance will transport you to the Land of Sweets. Our Orlando Christmas performances list wouldn't be complete without this gem.

Concept Art for Stage Design Orlando Ballet The Nutcracker
Concept Art for Orlando Ballet The Nutcracker – @orlandoballet

Additionally, there's a special Nutcracker Family and Sensory-Friendly Show, designed for all ages and abilities. Adjustments to sound and lighting create a welcoming environment, with designated quiet spaces available for a comfortable experience. Learn more about the Dr. Phillips Center's Certified Autism Center designation on their website.

When: December 8th to December 24th, 2023; Times vary
Where: The Dr. Phillips Center of the Performing Arts
455 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Tickets from $29

Phantasmagoria’s A Most Haunted Victorian Christmas

Listen to whimsical and haunted tales of the holidays by this critically acclaimed Victorian performance troupe. These storytellers, dancers, and performers bring a chilling twist to the stage during their telling of Ghosts Stories on Christmas Eve. Grab a mug of cider and gather around the Hearth and get spooked this holiday season.

cast of phantasmagoria orlando poses for Most Haunted Victorian Christmas performance
Most Haunted Victorian Christmas – @phantasorlando

Varying show dates and locations in Central Florida. December 9th to December 23rd, 2023.

Visit the link for more information and to see dates, times, and locations.

The Illusionists Magic of the Holidays

Celebrate the holidays by watching a mind-blowing performance by The Illusionists. A thrilling and sophisticated show that will truly make the season magical for you and your someone special.

When: December 15, 2023 at 8:00pm
Where: The Dr. Phillips Center of the Performing Arts
455 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Tickets from $30

Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

Enjoy a holiday spectacle like no other. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns to Orlando for their renowned theatrical live performances that combine music, storytelling, and lights displays that truly create a captivating experience. A truly bucket-list worthy Orlando Christmas performance.

When: December 22nd, 2023, Showtimes at 2:30pm and 7:30pm
Where: Amway Center
400 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801

Ticket prices start at $49.

Christmas Tea and Cello Performance

Indulge in a delightful hour of live music performed by a seasoned Cello player, all while savoring The Tea Room’s delectable Christmas Afternoon Tea.

The Tea Room Experience in Orlando Decorated for Christmas
The Tea Room Experience Decorated for Christmas – @thetearoomexperience

The menu is designed to cater to the whole family, offering an array of finger sandwiches, dainty desserts, scones paired with house-made Devonshire cream and preserves, savory morsels and a complimentary Holiday Mimosa to start your experience on a festive note.

When: Saturday, December 23rd and Sunday, December 24th
Seating times: 10:00am, 1:00pm & 4:00pmWhere: The Tea Room Experience
420 E Church St #109, Orlando, FL 32801

Reservations are $58 per person

Holiday Performances at Walt Disney World

Disney Jollywood Nights

Delight in yuletide entertainment, including live bands, stage shows, sing-alongs, and to wrap up the evening, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! – a nighttime spectacular featuring fireworks, lasers, lights, projections and merry music. All inspired by the glitz and glamour of vintage Hollywood.

Experience Disney's first Jollywood Nights evening event with our Disney Jollywood Nights Expert Tips.

cast performs Disney Holidays in Hollywood stage show during disney jollywood nights
Disney Holidays in Hollywood Show – image by Dani Meyering

When: Select nights from November 11th to December 20th, 2023

Where: Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios
351 South Studio Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Ticket prices based on reservation date.

Epcot’s Candlelight Processional (with Dining Package option)

A seasonal experience that features a celebrity narration of the story of Christmas, a 50 piece orchestra and massed choir. This is the main highlight of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

By choosing a dining package option you ensure your seat at this highly-sought after Christmas event. Choose from 8 unique eateries at EPCOT offering Candlelight Processional Dining Packages.

When: November 24th to December 30th, 2023
Showtimes: 5:15pm, 7:00pm, and 8:30pm
Where: America Gardens Theater at Walt Disney World’s EPCOT

Photo Spot at EPCOT Festival of the Holidays 2022
Photo Spot at EPCOT Festival of the Holidays 2022 -Dani Meyering

Tickets include entry to Walt Disney World’s EPCOT but do not ensure you a spot at the Candlelight Processional, which is a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is based on availability due to limited capacity. To ensure a seat you must purchase a Dining Package.

Put on your calendar for next year:

Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at the Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees. Admire beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses, all while enjoying live music and holiday-themed entertainment.

When: November 10th to November 19th, 2023

Where: Orlando Museum of Art
2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Tickets are $20