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The holiday season has officially arrived in Central Florida, and few places embrace the magic quite like SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando. Whether you’re drawn to sparkling lights, festive shows, tropical water fun, or all-new nighttime celebrations, both parks deliver holiday offerings that feel bigger, brighter, and more immersive than ever before.
If you’re looking for unforgettable family memories this season, here are the top 10 reasons to make SeaWorld and Aquatica part of your Orlando holiday tradition.
Millions of Lights Across 120+ Acres at SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld’s award-winning Christmas Celebration transforms the park into a shimmering holiday wonderland. Guests are surrounded by twinkling lights, snowfall along the Waterfront, the iconic Sea of Trees, and appearances from beloved characters like Rudolph & Friends.
Even better — all of it is included with park admission.
Fan-Favorite Holiday Shows Return
SeaWorld’s entertainment lineup brings both heart and humor to the season, featuring a mix of new and returning productions:
- NEW: Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas – a playful sea lion show filled with holiday mayhem
- Winter Wonderland on Ice – professional skaters performing on a sparkling frozen stage
- O Wondrous Night – a moving retelling of the Nativity story
- Elmo’s Christmas Wish – perfect for younger guests
Roving toy soldiers, musicians, and stilt walkers add extra joy throughout the park.
Festive Food, Sips & Seasonal Dining Experiences
SeaWorld’s holiday treats are as memorable as the entertainment. Guests can enjoy:
- Dinner with Santa (through Dec. 24)
- Sesame Christmas Breakfast (Saturdays through Dec. 20)
- Culinary Christmas Huts opening daily at 4 p.m.
- Cookies, Cocoa & Milk Fireworks Viewing presented by Undeniably Dairy
From cozy hot cocoa to gourmet seasonal dishes, the food lineup is packed with flavor.
Holiday Reflections: A Nighttime Fireworks Finale
As the sun sets, the park lights up with Holiday Reflections, a nightly fireworks spectacular that pairs vivid colors and sweeping holiday music for a powerful end to your SeaWorld visit.
Sunshine, Slides & Heated Waterways at Aquatica Orlando
While most places celebrate the holidays wrapped in scarves, Orlando brings the warmth. Aquatica’s heated waterways ensure guests can enjoy slides, rivers, and beaches comfortably all season long.
Thrill Rides and Family Fun at Aquatica
From the high-speed Reef Plunge to relaxing lazy rivers and kid-friendly splash zones, Aquatica offers attractions for every age and thrill level — making it a perfect holiday outing for families.
A Brand-New Lantern Festival Debuts at Aquatica
This year introduces ILLUMINATE – A Lantern Festival at Aquatica, a separately ticketed nighttime event featuring towering lantern sculptures, glowing creatures, and immersive light installations.
It’s a brand-new holiday experience unlike anything else in Orlando.
Five Distinct Light-Filled Realms at ILLUMINATE
Guests can wander through beautifully themed zones, each offering unique scenery and photo moments:
- AquaLuma – enchanted pathways guided by mythical guardians
- Candy Cascade Falls – sweet, oversized confectionery-themed displays
- Enchanted Lagoon – mermaids, unicorns, and a moonlit setting
- Myst Wood Waters – vibrant creatures in a technicolor forest
- Rivers of Discovery – lanterns inspired by wildlife from SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Discovery CoveInteractive Fun & Limited-Time Eats at ILLUMINATE
The festival features hands-on holiday activities, including:
- Meeting Kiwi Santa
- Riding the Mini Serengeti Express Train
- Writing letters to Santa
- Exploring whimsical photo backdrops
Festival-exclusive bites include Brisket Mac & Cheese, Pork Belly Tacos, Apple Cider Churros, S’mores Pizza, and seasonal cocktails and mocktails.
Unbeatable Holiday Deals Across Both Parks
Guests can save up to 55 percent on Tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes during the Holiday Sale.
ILLUMINATE tickets start at $24.99, with additional discounts for Annual Pass Members.
These savings make it easier than ever to enjoy both parks throughout the season.
Plan Your Holiday Getaway to Orlando
With so many holiday events packed into one destination, 2024 is an unforgettable time to visit Orlando’s SeaWorld and Aquatica. If you’re planning a seasonal trip, pair your park visit with the perfect overnight stay. Explore great places to stay at Orlando hotels.
Whether you’re visiting for the lights, the lanterns, the slides, or the shows, SeaWorld and Aquatica offer something magical for every member of the family.
