Free Things to Do in Orlando: Holiday Edition
Orlando is bursting with free holiday cheer this weekend! Whether you’re visiting town or looking for budget-friendly ways to soak up the festivities, there’s something for everyone. From live concerts to magical light shows, here’s a curated list of the best events around the area.
Home for the Holidays at Lake Concord Park
📍 95 Triplet Lake Dr, Casselberry, FL 32707
🗓️ Friday, December 13 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Kick off your weekend with a cozy evening at Lake Concord Park’s Home for the Holidays event. Enjoy a free holiday concert while exploring hundreds of unique items crafted by local artists and artisans—perfect for snagging those last-minute holiday gifts. Be sure to grab a bite from one of the delicious food trucks on-site, and don’t miss the handmade glass treasures from the Glass Guild of Central Florida inside the Art House.
Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: Elf
📍 512 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801
🗓️ Friday, December 13 | 7 PM
What’s better than watching Elf under the stars? Bring a blanket, grab some popcorn, and settle in at Lake Eola Park for a free screening of this holiday favorite. Arrive early to meet Santa at the Eola House and explore the Merry Market for unique holiday gifts. It’s a perfect way to combine holiday shopping with festive family fun!
Downtown for the Holidays
📍 101 North Rosalind Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
🗓️ Recurring Friday to Sunday | Through December 22
Downtown Orlando transforms into a winter wonderland this holiday season. Walk through the stunning Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show, shop local at the Merry Market, and take in a snowy Florida evening at Lake Eola Park. With events like a Holiday Drone Show, Santa meet-and-greets, and sensory-friendly nights, there’s something magical for everyone. Check the Downtown for the Holidays website for details.
Holiday Pops at Della Phillips Pavilion
📍 2002 Packing District Way, Orlando, FL 32804
🗓️ Saturday, December 14 | 6 PM
Music lovers, get excited! To add to the list of free things to do in Orlando this weekend, The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra will perform holiday classics at the Della Phillips Pavilion. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of timeless seasonal melodies under the direction of Music Director Eric Jacobsen.
ICON Park® Winter Wonderland
📍 8375 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
🗓️ Recurring Daily | Through December 31
ICON Park is a hub of holiday activities this December. Stroll through a nightly snowfall on The Lawn, snap photos with the Charles Dickens Carolers, or explore SEA LIFE Orlando’s underwater holiday wonderland. For an added thrill, book a Santa’s Workshop Experience and take a ride on The Orlando Eye for panoramic views of the city decked out in holiday lights.
Light Up Winter Garden
📍 300 W Plant Street, Winter Garden, FL 34787
🗓️ Recurring Daily | Through January 5
Special Events: December 13 & 14
Downtown Winter Garden is aglow with holiday lights and entertainment. On Friday, December 13, enjoy a Merry Winter Garden Light Show and live holiday music by Juniper Club. On Saturday, December 14, the festivities continue with a farmers market featuring Santa, holiday street performers, and more. With its small-town charm and festive ambiance, Winter Garden is a holiday haven.
This weekend is packed with festive opportunities to celebrate the holidays without spending a dime. Whether you’re in the mood for music, movies, or magical strolls, Orlando has something special in store for you. Which event are you heading to first?