10 Christmas Parades in Orlando and Central Florida Full of Festive Fun

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Orlando’s Christmas parades are a holly jolly affair for the whole family! Whether you’re seeking a parade through the city or a small town reindeer rendezvous, these festive events are sure to jingle your bells with joy. From the iconic floats to the dazzling displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

These parades are just some of the many free holiday events in Orlando.

Orlando Area Christmas Parades

Annual Winter Park “Ye Olde Hometown” Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6, 2025, starts at 9am
Central Park Park Avenue, Winter Park
The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the annual Winter Park Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade. The event has been held each December for more than 60 years, making it the oldest continuous holiday parade in Central Florida. 

Winter Park “Ye Olde Hometown” Christmas Parade

Winter Garden Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6, 10am
Downtown Winter Garden
The Winter Garden Christmas Parade kicks off at 10:00 am on Dillard Street at the Palmetto Street intersection (by Wells Fargo) proceeds north on Dillard Street, then heads west/left on Plant Street through historic downtown and concludes at Park Avenue. Do not forget to look for the Big Guy himself at the end of the parade!

Avalon Aglow

Saturday, December 6, 2025, parade at 3pm Fireworks at 9pm
Avalon Park Town Center
3891 Avalon Park E Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828
Gather together to enjoy loads of holiday fun in Avalon Park. Activities include a bounce park, food truck, special performance, a parade, and fireworks.

Longwood Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6, 3pm
Ronald Reagan Boulevard, Longwood
The City of Longwood will host the annual Christmas Parade through Longwood by way of Ronald Reagan Blvd., north of SR 434. The parade will kick off at 5:00 pm on Saturday, December 7th, and will feature stunning cars, seasonal characters, bands, and much more. 

City of Oviedo’s Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6, 2025, starts at 7pm

Parade route starts at the Gym & Aquatic Center at approximately 7pm and flows through Oviedo Boulevard ending at the corner of Center Lake Lane and City Plaza!
Come early and get your food from one of the many restaurants in Oviedo on the Park, then find your spot along the parade route.

Eatonville Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6, 2025, starts at 6pm

4:30 PM—Vendors, Activities, Santa Photos at Eatonville Visitor’s Center
6:00 PM—Christmas Parade
Route starts on Center St at Orchard and then turns onto Mashell Ave and ends at the High School.

DeLand Rotary Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 6, 6pm
DeLand High School
Enjoy a time-honored tradition at the annual DeLand Christmas parade presented by the Rotary Clubs of DeLand.

Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade

Saturday, December 6, 2025, Starts at 7pm
Lake Dora, Mount Dora
Come enjoy the lighted Christmas Boat Parade on Lake Dora beginning at the Lighthouse across from Gilbert Park on Tremain Street and Liberty Street. Best places to view include Grantham Point (311 S Tremain Street) and Elizabeth Evans Park (100 N Donnelly Street).

Winter Wonderland – Parade and Tree Lighting

Saturday, December 6, 2025, 4-8pm – to be confirmed
Winter Springs Town Center
1126 East State Road 434
Winter Springs, FL 32708
Enjoy an annual Christmas parade starting at Keeth Elementary. Then enjoy entertainment by local youth groups and Winter Springs Dancers with Class, and the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. 

Winter Springs Winter Wonderland – Parade and Tree Lighting – Image from City of Winter Springs

Sanford Parade of Lights

Saturday, December 13, 6-7:30pm
A favorite annual tradition in historic downtown Sanford returns! This parade is special since it is held at night and most parade floats are illuminated. Grab an early dinner at one of the many wonderful restaurants or head to one of the breweries for a cup of Christmas cheer after the parade.

DeLand Christmas Boat Parade

Saturday, December 13, 2025, 6pm – to be confirmed
Whitehair Bridge
Celebrate Christmas in true Florida style! The festive boats will start at the Whitehair Bridge (State Road 44) and travel south on the St. Johns River to Lake Beresford.

Winter Park Boat Parade

2025 TBA
Dinky Dock Park
Organized by the Winter Park Rotary Club, head to Dinky Dock Park to see the impressive boat and dock holiday decorations created by residents and local business sponsors. Parking is extremely limited, we recommend using a ride share service.

Lake Conway Boat Parade

2025 TBA
Lake Conway

Fun on the Coast

Light Up Viera Christmas Parade

2025 TBA
Downtown Viera
This wonderful annual community event begins with a fireworks display at 6 p.m. The parade begins immediately following the fireworks. Music along the parade route will be presented by 5 High School Marching Bands.

Light Up Viera holiday parade

Tips for a Family-Friendly Holiday Parade Experience

  • Check the parade route and schedule, and consider parking options.
  • Arriving early ensures a good viewing spot and gives you time to settle in.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, and wear comfortable shoes.
  • Safety is paramount, so monitor children closely and remind them to avoid running into the street.
  • Bring essentials like snacks, drinks, blankets, or chairs, and don’t forget sunscreen and hats on sunny days.

Christmas Parades at Orlando’s Theme Parks

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade

At Magic Kingdom, the holiday season truly comes to life with Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, a cherished highlight of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. During these specially ticketed evenings, guests line Main Street, U.S.A. to watch Mickey, Minnie, and friends ride festive floats alongside toy soldiers, reindeer, and Santa Claus himself.

For those visiting during the busiest two weeks of the year, typically around Christmas and New Year’s, the parade also steps off during regular park hours, so that all guests can experience the magic. It’s one of the few times that the holiday spectacle becomes part of the standard day guest experience, with two daytime performances that fill the park with music, snow flurries, and the scent of gingerbread.

Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s

Universal Orlando’s seasonal celebration features Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, inspired by the iconic New York City event. Larger-than-life balloons glide through the streets of Universal Studios Florida, accompanied by themed floats, dancers, and beloved characters. The parade usually takes place in the early evening, timed perfectly to capture the glow of sunset and the twinkling holiday lights.

Sesame Street Christmas Parade at SeaWorld

SeaWorld transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland for its Christmas Celebration, where festive shows, lights, and music fill every corner of the park. One of the most heartwarming highlights is the Sesame Street Christmas Parade, featuring Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, and friends as they dance along Sesame Street in colorful holiday outfits. The floats glimmer with lights and snowflakes, blending nostalgia with kid-friendly excitement.

The parade is just one part of SeaWorld’s larger seasonal lineup, which includes the Sea of Trees light show on the lagoon, Holiday Reflections fireworks, ice-skating performances, and nightly snow flurries that make the park feel like a seaside North Pole.

Sesame Street Land SeaWorld Orlando Christmas tips for parents - image by Dani Meyering
Sesame Street Land SeaWorld Orlando Christmas – image by Dani Meyering

Once you’ve had your festive fun at the parade, see if you can spot some of the best Christmas lights and displays around town.