Holiday Day Trips + Christmas Activities in Central Florida

The holiday season is a great time to plan a special day out, make family memories, or take your kids to do something new as a Christmas gift. If you’re spending Christmas in Florida, we can help you find family fun and all of the best Christmas things to do near you!

Although there are PLENTY of things to do in Lakeland & Polk County during the Christmas holidays, we’ve compiled a list of things to do for Christmas in Central Florida, perfect for a day trip or a night out in Plant City, Tampa, or Orlando. Since we live where other people vacation {it’s pretty amazing right?!?} we get to enjoy Central Florida’s Christmas attractions and theme parks and then sleep in our own bed. These Christmas events in Florida include holiday-themed twinkling lights, live music, light shows, places to meet Santa Claus, special events, interactive activities, and more.

We’ve also included two special attractions right here in Polk County – Bok Tower and LEGOLAND Florida.

Please use our links to do your own research before making plans, some of the special holiday events are only available on select nights, even at places that are open daily.

POLK COUNTY CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES

Holidays at Bok Tower Gardens

Walk among poinsettias and decorated trees at Holidays at Bok Tower Gardens, featuring carillon concerts and special events like the Winter Fairy Festival, Breakfast with Santa, and more.

Some activities included with admission; others require reservations.

Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
Type of Activity: Christmas Events + Activities
Price Range: $10+ per person
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
More Info: Website

Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida decks the halls with a giant LEGO tree, holiday shows, themed scavenger hunts, and meet-and-greets with LEGO Santa. Included with park admission on select weekends in Nov & Dec.

Address: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884
Type of Activity: Christmas Events + Activities
Price Range: $10+ per person
Indoor/Outdoor: Both
More Info: Website

PLANT CITY CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES

Nights of Shimmering Lights in Dover

Nights of Shimmering Lights in Dover Sunkissed Acres Farm in Dover presents Shimmering Lights – a winter event featuring a 1/3-mile outdoor walking trail through the shimmering lights dancing to music. Walk at your own pace and stop as often as you like. Santa will be on hand for pictures and wishes. Get in the holiday mood with seasonal music and themed areas, plus foam play area on select nights. Shimmering Lights is a one-way wide walking trail, you can repeat the 1/3 mile trail as many times as you would like. Free parking. Restrooms on site. Light concessions include fresh hot mini donuts and hot cocoa. ** This is an unpaved walking trail and ground can be uneven in places, wear appropriate footwear and use caution, bring bug spray** Open select nights from November 29 – December 25 from 6:30-9:30 pm – Admission is $9-10, tickets are required for children 3 years old and older.

Address: 2302 N. Dover Road, Dover, FL 33527
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
Type of Activity: Christmas Lights
Price Range: $10+ per person
More Info: Website

Festival of Lights + Santa’s Village at the Hillsborough Fairgrounds

Festival of Lights + Santa’s Village at the Hillsborough Fairgrounds The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is hosting Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village – a Holiday Light Spectacular that features two-miles of drive-thru Christmas lights followed by a festive walking visit to Santa’s Village. If you’re looking to drive through Christmas lights in Tampa, check out the Festival of Lights! There’s something for everyone at this festive event, from dazzling lights to games and activities for all ages, visits with Santa, tasty treats, holiday movies and holiday shopping. Be sure to check the event calendar – some nights are drive through only with no village activities. November 28 – December 29 – $30 Per Carload (up to 8 people). Admission includes light displays and entrance to Santa’s Village, other activities may cost extra. Admission is $20 for drive-through only nights. See website for bus and group pricing.

Address: 215 Sydney Washer Road Dover, FL 33527
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
Type of Activity: Christmas Lights
Price Range: $10+ per person
More Info: Website

Christmas Lane at the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds in Plant City

Christmas Lane at the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds in Plant City Christmas Lane is an interactive walk through Christmas event held at the fairgrounds in Plant City, FL. Various Christmas themed displays, live entertainment, food, and rides (additional cost for food & rides). Plus, you can meet and take pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Frosty the Snowman, and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer! Open select nights from November 29 – December 24 from 6-10pm – Admission is $10-12 per person, free for 3 and under

Address: 2508 W Oak Ave, Plant City, FL 33563
Indoor/Outdoor: Both
Type of Activity: Christmas Events + Activities
Price Range: $10+ per person
More Info: Website

Christmas at Dinosaur World

Christmas at Dinosaur World Experience the magic of Christmas at Dinosaur World! Stroll through ancient pathways aglow with miles of twinkling holiday lights, and marvel at towering Christmas lantern displays that bring majestic dinosaurs and festive scenes to life. Meet Santa, enjoy special activities, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. With unique events happening throughout the celebration, every visit is a memorable adventure filled with Christmas cheer! Select nights November 29 – January 5 Included with Admission

Address: 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
Type of Activity: Christmas Events + Activities
Price Range: 
More Info: Website

Sir Henry’s Haunted Christmas Trail in Plant City

Sir Henry’s Haunted Christmas Trail in Plant City The Christmas Trail {a family friendly event we listed here in previous years} has converted to Sir Henry’s Haunted Christmas Trail and is not suitable for children under 12. Tampa Christmas Events + Attractions

Address: 2837 South Frontage Road, Plant City, FL 33566
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
Type of Activity: Christmas Events + Activities
Price Range: $10+ per person
More Info: Website