The Holidays in Orlando can be pretty competitive, with so many options to choose from and experience – from inside the theme parks and beyond. With the success of events this year at SeaWorld, the park has expanded upon their offerings as SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration returns for another year of providing some of the best Holiday experiences you’ll find in Orlando.

Returning for another year of festive fun, guests can immerse themselves into the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Rudolph’s ChristmasTown. As guests stroll past life-size story book vignettes featuring the classic tale, they’ll have the opportunity to meet their favorite characters: Rudolph, Clarice, Bumble and Yukon Cornelius. The additions of the Rankin/Bass characters in 2016 has been nothing short of a success for the park, with guests waiting in long lines for a picture with the red-nosed reindeer. 

New this year is the Dine with Santa at Shamu Stadium experience, where guests can enjoy a warm-hearted holiday experience and meet Santa Claus as family memories are made at this all-new dining experience. The buffet style dinner features a taste-tempting menu of traditional holiday favorites and delicious desserts. Guests will also receive reserved seating to Winter Wonderland on Ice, which is another gem at SeaWorld.

Prices start at $40 and can be purchased online in advance at SeaWorldOrlando.com.

One of the most beloved traditions at SeaWorld Orlando, O Wondrous Night, is the live retelling of the nativity story, complete with more than 30 carols, life-sized puppets, and animals.  Another returning classic, Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas, at Sea Lion & Otter Stadium, celebrates the season with a hilarious Christmas comedy show. Clyde and Seamore take center stage as they hope to get on Santa’s “Nice” list.

The Sea of Trees is one of Orlando’s most unique Holiday experiences. Lit-up trees surround SeaWorld’s lagoon as holiday images come to life on over 100 trees, including a giant glistening centerpiece that towers 70-feet above the water.

Of course, the most important activity during the holidays is to meet and take a photo with Santa Claus, which guests can do over inside Wild Arctic.

SeaWorld has seen major success with food & wine events this year, so it’s no surprise the Holidays have received some more goodies to the menu. The Christmas Market is filled with fresh-popped kettle corn, waffle cone S’mores, grilled slider sandwiches, short-rib brisket mac & cheese and SeaWorld’s very own apple pie with a unique and delicious twist. One of the most unique items this year, and one that’s gonna set your diet back a few weeks, is the pulled pork donut sandwich; which is topped with fried pickles, onion hay strings and bacon. While the idea may sound off-putting, the sweetness of the donut & salty savoriness of the meats makes it quite a delicious combination.

Hello, Calories! Here’s the Pulled Pork Donut Sandwich.

Other returning favorites this year include Pets Ahoy Christmas, Shamu Christmas Miracles, and Sesame Street’s Elmo’s Christmas Wish. Of course, after Christmas, guests can ring in 2019 be celebrating New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld Orlando as vibrant fireworks fill the night sky at midnight.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is offered on select dates from Nov. 17 to Dec. 31.

After experiencing the wonder of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, guests can keep the spirit of the season burning bright at SeaWorld’s Three Kings Celebration. During Three Kings Celebration, guests will enjoy extended opportunities to see classic SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration experiences such as “O Wondrous Night” and “Sea of Trees.” Offered daily, January 1-6, Three Kings Celebration brings the holiday season to an incredible close at SeaWorld.