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Aquatica Orlando Unveils ILLUMINATE: A Dazzling Nighttime Lantern Festival for the Holidays

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A New Holiday Glow at Aquatica Orlando: ILLUMINATE Launches This November

The holiday season in Orlando just got brighter. Aquatica Orlando, already known as one of the country’s top water parks, is adding a fresh layer of magic to its lineup with the launch of ILLUMINATE: A Lantern Festival at Aquatica. Running select nights from November 8, 2025, through January 31, 2026, this brand-new Aquatica Orlando nighttime event promises a radiant, multi-sensory experience the whole family can enjoy.

Aquatica Orlando Nighttime Event

What is ILLUMINATE?

ILLUMINATE is not your typical theme park holiday attraction. It transforms Aquatica’s lush tropical setting into five immersive, glowing realms of storytelling, creativity, and light. From whimsical candy forests to mystical mermaid lagoons, guests are invited to explore vibrant worlds brought to life by thousands of custom-designed lanterns, themed music, and interactive surprises.

While Aquatica’s thrilling slides and wave pools take a break for the evening, the magic continues under the stars with glowing lantern paths, festive food offerings, and plenty of photo opportunities that will become instant holiday favorites.

Five Immersive Realms of Light

Here’s a closer look at the five unique realms you can explore during ILLUMINATE:

  1. AquaLuma

Legend tells of five animal guardians who brought light to the waters—Roa the Kiwi, Papa the Spoonbill, Wae Wae the Takahe, Kata the Kookaburra, and Ihu the Gecko. Their legacy shines through intricate wildlife lanterns and shimmering arches in this peaceful, radiant realm.

  1. Candy Cascade Falls

A child’s dreamland made real. Giant gummy bears, lollipop groves, and peppermint paths create a sugary world where every step sparkles. Families will feel the magic of laughter powering the landscape in this vibrant candy wonderland.

  1. Enchanted Lagoon

Glide into a dreamy cove inspired by moonlight and myth. At the heart of the lagoon, a glowing mermaid and her sea unicorn companion keep watch over wishes cast into the waters. Ethereal lighting and calming ambiance make this a serene stop along your journey.

  1. Myst Wood Waters

Dive deep into a forest pulsing with energy. With interactive stepping mats, a glowing Tree of Light, and lanterns shaped like macaws, dragonflies, and chameleons, this realm invites you to activate light with every step.

  1. Rivers of Discovery

Celebrate conservation and wonder with a glowing tribute to animals across SeaWorld parks. Lanterns of dolphins, lions, flamingos, and giraffes share messages of curiosity, care, and environmental stewardship—perfect for young explorers.

Aquatica Orlando Florida Nighttime Event

Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions

Beyond the stunning visuals, ILLUMINATE is a fully immersive, interactive experience. Guests of all ages can engage in hands-on holiday fun:

  • Kiwi Santa Meet & Greet: Take photos with a warm-weather Santa inspired by New Zealand traditions.
  • Kiddie Alley Express: Hop aboard the mini Serengeti Express for a scenic ride through a lantern safari.
  • Lantern Craft Zone: Write a wish, seal it in a decorative vial, and release it into the water with your own small lantern as part of the Wishing Tree experience.
  • S’mores Alley: Cozy up with classic holiday s’mores near a warm campfire, and meet merry elves along the way.

Limited-Time Culinary Delights

ILLUMINATE also offers exclusive holiday-themed food and drink selections that go beyond your typical park fare. Visitors can purchase food a la carte or use a Lantern Lanyard, which offers pre-paid tasting options at discounted prices.

Must-try items include:

  • Brisket Mac & Cheese
  • Pork Belly Tacos
  • Apple Cider Churros
  • S’mores Pizza
  • Cotton Candy Margarita (for adults)
  • Christmas Tree Punch (non-alcoholic)

Pass Members receive exclusive discounts on food lanyards, making it an even better value for families planning to indulge.

Ticket Information & Savings

Tickets to ILLUMINATE are now on sale starting at $29.99, making this one of the most affordable nighttime experiences in Orlando this holiday season. Admission includes access to all five illuminated realms, live entertainment, photo ops, and most craft activities.

Lantern Lanyards are available in five- or ten-punch options, ideal for guests who want to sample the full range of holiday bites and beverages. As always, Pass Members enjoy special pricing and perks.

For full details and to purchase tickets, visit the official event page:
👉 https://aquatica.com/orlando/events/illuminate/

Final Thoughts

With its creative design, interactive environments, and attention to detail, ILLUMINATE at Aquatica Orlando is shaping up to be a standout holiday event unlike anything else in Central Florida. Whether you’re visiting with kids, taking a date night stroll, or exploring solo, it offers a new way to celebrate the season with light, laughter, and a little tropical magic.

Stay tuned to OrlandoEscape.com for more coverage on holiday events, theme park updates, and insider tips for your next Orlando adventure.

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