For over five decades, the Messiah Choral Society of Central Florida has presented a moving, fully orchestrated performance of Handel’s Messiah completely free to the public. Held each November in the world-class Steinmetz Hall, this beloved concert features professional soloists, a full orchestra and a powerful volunteer choir under the direction of acclaimed conductor Dr. John V. Sinclair. From the jubilant “Hallelujah” chorus to the final “Amen,” this performance is a gift to the community, a way to unite, uplift and inspire as the holiday season begins. It is a tradition built on excellence, inclusion and shared experience.
November 19 & 20 | A Christmas Nutcracker Tale | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Celebrate the holiday season with Central Florida Ballet's A Christmas Nutcracker Tale, coming to Dr. Phillips Center on November 19 and 20! This dazzling twist on the holiday classic features live music by the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras, spectacular pyrotechnics, illuminated props and breathtaking aerial performances. Recognized nationally for its innovative production, the show brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved score to life through stunning dance, special effects and festive storytelling. Guests can also explore the Nutcracker Boutique, featuring holiday gifts and collectibles, or participate in an online silent auction. Perfect for the whole family, this unforgettable performance offers a magical way to celebrate the holiday season.
November 28 | Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Get into the holiday spirit with this exciting spin on a classic holiday tale. In this original adaptation of The Nutcracker, written and produced by Beverly Page, the rich pageantry of holiday traditions meets the vibrant cultural diversity of Central Florida. Take a journey with Clare through her enchanting dream where she travels with the Chocolate Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy around the world, visiting Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Pacific Islands, India, Puerto Rico and other lands on their way to the Kingdom of Toys. Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker is described as an exciting, lively and delightful holiday treat for the entire family!
December 4 | Tree Lighting Celebration | Lake Eola Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park
Kick off the holiday season at the City of Orlando's annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Lake Eola Park. The highlight of the event is the lighting of the six-story Christmas tree featuring 88,000 animated lights. The event will include holiday performances at the Lake Eola Amphitheater, food trucks and a holiday market.
If you’re unable to make it to the tree lighting, you can catch the synchronized light and music Christmas Tree Show every evening through January 6. The show will run each hour from 5:45 to 9:45 p.m.
December 5 | Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: How the Grinch Stole Christmas | East Lawn at Lake Eola Park
Bring your blankets, gather the family and immerse yourself in the magic of the season with our family-friendly screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at 7 p.m.
December 6 | Sunday Movie Night: Elf | Seneff Arts Plaza
Cozy up with your favorite holiday movie under the stars on Seneff Arts Plaza at 7:45 p.m. No ticket purchases necessary.
December 12 | Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: Elf | East Lawn at Lake Eola Park
Bring your blankets, gather the family and immerse yourself in the magic of the season with our family-friendly screening of Elf at 7 p.m.
December 12 | Violectric Holiday Show | Lake Eola Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park
Central Florida’s electrifying strings supergroup Violectric®, led by “Vinylinist” Michelle Jones, will rock the holidays once again with the 13th Annual Violectric® Holiday Show on Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 7 p.m. at the Walt Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park. Free and open to the public, the 90-plus-minute live concert is presented by the Norelli Family Foundation and additional sponsors, including United Arts of Central Florida, DTOLive!, Music Performance Trust Fund and Violectric Education Programs.
This visually and aurally stimulating experience blends classic holiday songs like O Christmas Tree and Hanukkah, O Hanukkah with rock favorites like Born to Run and Sweet Dreams for a mashup experience unlike any other, simulcast around Lake Eola. This year’s show features guest performances by students from Edgewater High School and Southwest Middle School, plus acclaimed teen jazz vocalist Bella Beau from Southern California.
The event will be emceed by GRAMMY®-nominated artist Ms. Meka Nism, with appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos and family fun. Guests are encouraged to bring a donation to support the Norelli Family Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity focused on supporting children and a wide range of social, human services and other charitable purposes.
December 13 | Sunday Movie Night: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer | Seneff Arts Plaza
Cozy up with your favorite holiday movie under the stars on Seneff Arts Plaza at 6:30 p.m. No ticket purchases necessary.
December 19 | Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park: A Christmas Story | East Lawn at Lake Eola Park
Bring your blankets, gather the family and immerse yourself in the magic of the season with our family-friendly screening of A Christmas Story. Showtime is at 7 p.m.
December 20 | Sunday Movie Night: The Year Without a Santa Claus | Seneff Arts Plaza
Cozy up with your favorite holiday movie under the stars on Seneff Arts Plaza at 6:30 p.m. No ticket purchases necessary.
December 27 | Sunday Movie Night: The Greatest Showman: Singalong Version | Seneff Arts Plaza
Cozy up with your favorite holiday movie under the stars on Seneff Arts Plaza at 6:30 p.m. No ticket purchases necessary.