Floridians may experience the holiday season in a different way, but we make up for it with all of these awesome experiences in Orlando.
1. Disney
Disney Springs special holiday-themed trees
Mia Reid
For annual passholders and visitors, Disney during this time of year is the absolute most spirited place to be. With special decorations and shows, Magic Kingdom is sure to put a smile on your face. My personal favorite is the Epcot Cookie Stroll. Who doesn't want a ton of sweet, holiday-colored treats??? You can even find Disney Springs looking extra magical (plus it's free to park and get in!).
2. Hogsmeade
Seussland at Islands of Adventure
Mia Reid
Disney isn't the only theme park that gets busy during this time of year! As someone that prefers Universal and Islands of Adventure, Hogsmeade always brings the spirit out for me. Fake snow painted on the old-fashioned buildings and warm Butterbeer define winter coziness.
3. The weather.
This may be arguable to my fellow Floridians, as it rarely drops below fifty degrees even in December here. Some people prefer to see snow and get bundled up to feel the seasonal change, but I prefer the warmer climate. Sure, I can still put on a sweater and boots and stay comfortable. That's enough for me to get a sense of the holidays. The warmer weather allows us to get outside more, and that can't be beat. Plus, getting on a boat on a sunny Christmas day with your family can't be so bad.
4. Shopping
The absolute best part of the holiday season is gift-giving. Picking out the perfect presents for your loved ones, wrapping them in matching paper and bows, and seeing their faces as they open what you chose for them is an unbeatable feeling. Orlando has a plethora of amazing shopping malls and plazas. The Mall at Millenia's giant tree is set up as soon as November, with ornaments and decorations throughout the entire two-story mall. More casual shopping is prevalent at the Florida Mall, which is also adorably decorated. You'll be sure to find steals at the Premium Outlets as well.
5. Dining
No doubt that Orlando has some of the best food in all of Florida. Being such a melting pot, you'd be hard-put to not find a restaurant you want to eat at and one that could accommodate everyone's taste buds (or dietary restrictions!). After a busy Friday night of shopping or hitting the parks, it is easily the most satisfying to bite into a delicious meal and kick up your feet at a nice restaurant.
I get the complaints from my peers that also grew up in Florida that they want to feel the weather change, but I think we have it made right where we are—especially during the holidays.
