The University of Central Florida hosts an annual event from late November to right after New Years called Light Up UCF (lightupucf.com). A ferris wheel and merry-go-round are constructed in the middle of campus, along with an outdoor skating rink. D.J.s play holiday and pop music, and hot chocolate and cider are available nearby. Entry to look at the lights and walk around is free, but there is a small charge for skate rentals, holiday souvenirs and snacks.
A Wednesday night tradition, Anti-Gravity Orlando's (anti-gravityorlando.com) Strokes and Notes is a different approach to a night of culture. At the time of publication, a $5 entrance fee allows adults 18 and up to encounter the best of Florida's local arts and music scene, while sipping wine and cocktails from the low-priced bar. Walk around and check out new forms of art, such as speed painting while listening to indie-acoustic jams. Casual attire is encouraged and the party lasts as late as 3 a.m.
From November 25 to December 30, Disney's Epcot (disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot) puts up holiday decorations and hosts live performers for the Yuletide season. After spending a day at the park, taking in the scenery and learning about Christmas traditions from around the world, the family can go to the American Gardens Theatre for the nightly candlelight processional which tells the Christmas story through a full mass choir and an orchestra. Celebrity narrators, including Disney stars like Whoopi Goldberg and Brad Garret, change throughout the season. If you choose to stick around for nightly fireworks, consider buying a package that includes dinner, the show and reserved seating, as spaces fill up early.
At Disney's Hollywood Studios (disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios), the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights on the Streets of America features an array of lights for the holiday season. Check out the variety of restaurants and shops and watch millions of lights blink in unison with festive music. The choreographed display is often topped off with a grand finale of "snowfall" over the theme park, a special treat for younger guests. The lights stay up from November to the end of January.
