Presents only last a little while before they are gone, but memories created with family and friends during the holiday season will last forever. The best way to create lasting memories is by going on a family holiday vacation. Orlando’s theme parks pull out all the stops at Christmas, and it’s something you won’t want to miss. You might consider renting a vacation home for privacy and convenient access to the parks. Here’s what each of the theme parks does to make the holiday season special.

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

The happiest place on earth gives the holidays some extra Mickey Mouse magic. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom Park features familiar Disney faces in a holiday celebration. Special holiday treats like cookies and milk for Santa are complimentary throughout the park (gluten-free options are available upon request).

One of the most amazing events in this special Christmas celebration is the Frozen seasonal show. During the show, Queen Elsa transforms Cinderella Castle into an icy wonderland.  And to top it all off is the holiday fireworks display over the castle.  That is something you do not want to miss.

Disney World is certainly known for its parades, and the Very Merry Christmas Party is no exception. The Once Upon a Christmastime Parade has gingerbread men, elves, and Disney characters dancing down Main Street, U.S.A.  Oh what fun.  Get there a little early to see this awesome event as the streets get filled quickly.

Universal Studios Orlando Resort

Are you ready to literally get into the spirit of the holiday season? Then look no further as Universal Studios will help you create a memorable holiday experience that will have your senses on overload with their attractions:

• Explore Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. They are filled with holiday cheer and new nightly snowfall.
• Universal also boasts its own holiday parade brimming with familiar characters decked out in their holiday best: Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s.
• And do not miss Grinchmas as fans of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” will enjoy the live retelling of the classic story in the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.

Check out the official site for more information: Universal Studios Hollywood Christmas Memories.

SeaWorld

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration transforms the park into a winter wonderland filled with carols, lighted trees, and ice skating shows. You can enjoy meeting Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and his friends and participating in fun holiday traditions. The Christmas Celebration features signature shows like Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas and Elmo’s Christmas Wish.

A Christmas at SeaWorld wouldn’t be complete without the park’s famous killer whales. Shamu Christmas Miracles is a nighttime holiday show filled with lights and festive music that features SeaWorld’s orcas.  Are you ready for Christmas at SeaWorld?