In Progress Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer characters at ICE! Gaylord Palms - image by Dani Meyering

7 Easy Things to Do with Your Kids During Thanksgiving Break

| |

Thanksgiving Break approaches! The holiday season can be hectic, so schedule in some fun before Thanksgiving Break arrives. From simple pleasures to special outings, these things to do with kids during Thanksgiving break will ensure you make precious memories together.

Speaking of Thanksgiving, you can order Thanksgiving dinner or sides for takeout. And if you need someone to take care of your kiddos while you work or attend to other responsibilities, there are several Thanksgiving Camps in Orlando.

In Case You’re Interested:

>> Super Fun Family Restaurants
>> Cheap Family Fun
>> Orlando Hotels with Waterparks

Family Fun During Thanksgiving Break

  1. Do something for FREE
  2. See Christmas lights and holiday decorations
  3. Orlando Science Center
  4. ICE! at Gaylord Palms
  5. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
  6. Lantern Festivals
  7. Enjoy the Outdoors

Keep reading for more info on each of these activities. There are ideas for every Orlando family, and visiting folks too!

Do Something for FREE

The holiday season can be an expensive time of year for families. Despite our best intentions to get creative with holiday gift ideas, many of us overspend.

So make it easy on yourself and enjoy some of the many free kids’ activities in Orlando. Some of our favorite free ideas include Mead Botanical Garden, Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, Bonnet Springs Park, and much more.

Of course, local playgrounds like Winter Park Community and Phelps Park are always free too.

Mennello Scuplture Garden Free Things to Do with Kids Orlando - Dani Meyering
Mennello Sculpture Garden Orlando – Dani Meyering

The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll is a great free thing to do during Thanksgiving break.

Also, be sure to fuel the fun and keep it budget-friendly where Kids Eat Free.

READ MORE: Free Things for Kids to Do in Orlando

See Christmas lights and holiday decorations

Thanksgiving week used to mark the start of the Christmas and holiday season. Not anymore, and certainly not in Orlando. Many of Orlando’s Christmas lights and holiday displays are up and running by Thanksgiving itself.

Plus there are lots of FREE Holiday events happening during Thanksgiving break, and adorable places to see Santa in Orlando too.

three polar bear holiday decorations at lake concord park
Lake Concord Park in Casselberry – image by Dani Meyering

You can also head to one of these adorable Christmas tree lots and farms.

Orlando Science Center

Cost $29 for adults, $22 for youth ages 2–11, and free for children under 2

Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or a fun family outing, the Orlando Science Center is a classic idea. Hours are usually reduced, but it is still a great way to enjoy some hands-on activities together.

young children enjoy Kids Town Orlando Science Center
Kids Town Orlando Science Center – image by Dani Meyering

The Orlando Science Center has four floors of fun; some areas can easily be overlooked. So be sure to read our Expert Tips for Visiting the Orlando Science Center before you go.

ICE! at Gaylord Palms

  • Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 7, 2026
  • Location: Gaylord Palms Resort
  • Cost: Tickets start at $26

Make this Thanksgiving Season a winter memory for years to come at ICE! at Gaylord Palms, where the beloved story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer comes to life this year! Colorful ice sculptures are hand-carved by artisans from around the world. Families can bundle up in parkas to explore the dazzling walk-through attraction, slide down ice slides, and enjoy festive photo ops. It’s a must-see holiday adventure perfect for Thanksgiving break fun.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

  • Dates: Select dates, November 7 through January 5
  • Location: SeaWorld Orlando
  • Cost: Included with park admission

The festive season at SeaWorld Orlando is perfect for making memories together as a family. We love SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration because it’s bundled into your regular park admission, and brings enchanting elements like a “Sea of Trees” light display, faux snow along the waterfront, character meet-and-greets, and wholesome live shows for the kids.

And there is new entertainment this year!

ILLUMINATE at Aquatica

  • Dates: Select dates, November 8, 2015 – January 31, 2026
  • Location: Aquatica Orlando
  • Cost: Starting at $24.99

New for 2025 is ILLUMINATE, Aquatica Orlando’s lantern festival. Families can expect walk-through magic as the entire park comes alive with glowing animal lanterns, interactive light displays, and whimsical music. Instead of water slides and swimming, it’s a chance to slow down, stroll together, and see Aquatica like never before.

Asian Lantern Festival at CFL Zoo

  • Dates: Select dates, November 14, 2025 – January 18, 2026
  • Location: Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
  • Cost: Starting at $26.99 per person, children ages 2 and under are free

One of the most beautiful events of the year is the Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo. The lanterns are stunning, and there are multiple photo opportunities for kids!

Enjoy the outdoors

Finally, the weather is so lovely. You’ll be missing these cooler days when summer is back, so go enjoy the pleasantness. Some of our favorite outdoor things to do in Orlando are especially lovely during Thanksgiving break.

Discover more: Nature Parks for a Mental Health Break

Bonus Ideas:

Born and raised in the land of sunshine and dreams come true, Dani is a proud Orlando native. She loves sharing her hometown with others from the theme parks to Florida's natural beauty. With over 15 years of experience, Dani is thrilled to serve as our Managing Editor at Orlando Date Night Guide, Orlando Parenting, as well as Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.