While the weather outside might be frightful in many corners of the US right now, Florida is enjoying temperatures of over 70 degrees. If that’s not a reason to enjoy a little holiday cheer by going to Orlando in the winter, we don’t know what is.

On top of having gorgeous weather, there’s also a ton of events that go on during December. You can go see a parade or enjoy the bright Christmas lights.

If the temperatures do decide to drop, you can take a dip in a heated pool at one of the many resorts Orlando has to offer. That’s only the beginning of the amazing things that you’ll be able to see and do. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Peppermint Square

Every November 21st-January 2nd, the area around Lake Nona turns into Peppermint Square. Here you’ll find plenty of holiday decorations to look at. Mr. and Mrs. Clause will be around to take photos.

You can also use the 25 foot decorated tree as a gorgeous backdrop to commemorate your Orlando vacation. Speaking of Christmas trees, if you’re spending the holidays with a family member who lives in Orlando, and they don’t have a tree yet, you can snag one from Peppermint Square. They have plenty of them for sale.

This event is also the best place to get some delicious holiday treats. What better way to get yourself in the holiday spirit?

2. Manatees

How cold does Orlando get in the winter? The answer is not very. Most Floridians enjoy temperatures of around 70-80 degrees throughout the season.

This is good news for the manatees. They flock to Orlando to take advantage of the warmer waters. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see these cuties by the hundreds in the winter.

3. Stay In a Luxury Resort

If the weather does get chilly out, you can take shelter in one of the many luxurious Orlando resorts. They’re packed full of amenities, including heated pools!

There are so many around that you’re sure to find one that’s in your budget. If you need to bring Fido along with you on vacation, there are plenty of pet-friendly hotels in the area as well.

We will warn you that hotels tend to fill up fast during the winter season due to everyone trying to escape the cold. You’ll need to visit site to book your stay ASAP.

4. See Santa

There’s nothing that can get the kids excited about the holidays quite like getting a glimpse at Santa. The good news is that there are several areas around Orlando where you can spot him.

He makes an appearance at almost all the parades and festivals. If you’re planning to spend some of your winter vacation at one of the Orlando theme parks, Santa can be seen at almost all of them. On occasion, Mrs. Clause and a few elves will join in on the fun too.

5. Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld

During the cold season, SeaWorld turns into a winter wonderland. You’ll be able to see hundreds of fully decorated Christmas trees. The lineup also includes the 70 foot one that stands in the center of everything.

SeaWorld plays host to a few Holiday parades. There’s a Sesame Street-themed one that your kids are sure to love. At the end of the night, there’s a firework and fountain show that’s choreographed to classic Christmas songs.

There’s even an indoor ice skating rink. As you can see, there’s something for your entire family.

6. Buy Tickets to a Show

If you’re looking to get a taste of the arts this holiday season, Orlando has you covered. There are live performances going on throughout the months of November and December.

You and your family can go see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra or buy tickets to a play. Be warned that tickets to these events tend to sell out fast. Don’t put off going to a show until the last minute.

7. Disney Very Merriest After Hours

Let’s face it, when people go to Orlando, most of the time they flock to Disney. If you’re already planning to take your kids to the theme park, you might as well enjoy the Very Merriest celebration that goes on after the park closes.

It’s a parade that kicks off with beloved characters such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse and ends with an appearance by Santa. Note that to enjoy the festivities, you have to buy a ticket specifically for the event.

So guests can make the most out of the attractions and partake in the delicious holiday treats that are included with the ticket price, spots are in limited supply.

8. Get Your Holiday Shopping Finished

A lot of people tend to forget about holiday shopping until the last minute. If you find yourself scrambling for gift ideas, you’ll be happy to know that there are a lot of shops around Orlando.

You can’t walk 15 minutes away from one of the theme parks without hitting a store of some kind. In fact, The Mall of Florida has over 250 shops that will have something for everyone on your list.

If you want to go with one of the more luxury brands, you can hit up The Mall at Millenia. They have a huge selection to choose from as well.

Enjoying Orlando in the Winter

Are you looking for a way to escape the cold this holiday season? Orlando in the winter boasts temperatures of over 70 degrees. When the weather does get chilly, you can take a dip in a heated pool.

The sunshine state doesn’t only work as a warm getaway. There’s plenty of Christmas cheer to be had. Book your hotel room and come join in on the fun!

Are you looking for more festive winter destinations? Visit the Where & When section of our blog for all the latest travel ideas.