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The Orlando area transforms into a hub of vibrant activity and gratitude every Thanksgiving week. From the moment the leaves begin to turn and seasonal decorations pop up across Lake Eola Park, Universal Studios, and Walt Disney World, Central Florida radiates a sense of joy and togetherness. Whether you’re searching for the best things to do in Orlando as a visitor or local, or planning how to navigate Orlando events in late November, there’s no better time to explore the city’s unique traditions, cultural festivals, and world-class attractions.
As families gather and kitchens fill with the scent of Thanksgiving meals, a parallel story unfolds throughout Orlando’s neighborhoods, theme parks, and cultural venues. The city’s calendar is packed with immersive art experiences, multicultural celebrations, outdoor holiday markets, live shows, and even high-energy turkey trots. If you’re looking for Orlando events around Thanksgiving or simply want to discover new holiday celebrations to share, you’ll find plenty of options in this guide.
Let’s explore some of the most anticipated events that make Thanksgiving week in Orlando magical—for families, foodies, art lovers, and anyone ready to create new holiday memories.
Table of contents
- Thanksgiving Weekend at the Morse Museum
- Lindsey Stirling: The Snow Waltz Tour
- A Christmas Carol at Orlando Shakes
- AdventHealth Turkey Trot 5K
- Light Up Eustis
- Friday Art After Dark
- Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
- FusionFest 2025
- Starry Night Holiday Event
- More holiday things to do in Orlando
1. Thanksgiving Weekend at the Morse Museum
Date: Friday, November 28 – Sunday, November 30, 2025
Location: The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Winter Park
Enjoy free admission all Thanksgiving weekend at this acclaimed Winter Park museum, featuring beautiful American decorative arts and Tiffany glass. Special live music performances on Friday evening add to the festive, relaxed atmosphere.
2. Lindsey Stirling: The Snow Waltz Tour
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Location: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Downtown Orlando
Experience a high-energy holiday show as Lindsey Stirling blends classical violin with electrifying dance and choreography, delivering a unique and visually captivating performance.
3. A Christmas Carol at Orlando Shakes
Date: Wednesday, November 26 – Sunday, November 30, 2025
Location: Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Loch Haven Park, Orlando
Enjoy this enduring holiday play as Orlando Shakes brings Dickens’ classic tale to life, making it a beloved family tradition and a heartwarming way to ring in the season.
4. AdventHealth Turkey Trot 5K
Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Location: 131 Wilson Lake Parkway, Groveland, FL
Join your neighbors for a festive Thanksgiving morning tradition at the AdventHealth Turkey Trot 5K. This family-friendly run brings the community together to start the holiday with positive energy, laughter, and a little friendly competition. Whether you come to race, walk, or cheer others on, it’s a great way to connect and make memories before the day's celebrations.
5. Light Up Eustis
Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
Location: Ferran Park and Downtown, Eustis, FL
Light Up Eustis welcomes families to kick off the holiday season with dazzling tree lightings and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa. This lakeside celebration features festive decor, cheerful crowds, and all the ingredients of a classic small-town holiday gathering.
6. Friday Art After Dark
Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
Location: Lake Nona Town Center, Orlando
Discover unique gifts and support local talent at this vibrant evening artisan market, curated by Orlando Local Makers. Shop from over 40 area artists and makers in an inviting outdoor setting designed for easy browsing.
7. Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
Date: Starts Friday, November 28, 2025 (runs through January)
Location: Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando
Experience breathtaking immersive light displays and interactive features as Leu Gardens transforms into a glowing wonderland at night. Walk winding paths through illuminated installations, making this a favorite for families and couples alike.
8. FusionFest 2025
Date: Saturday, November 29 – Sunday, November 30, 2025
Location: Seneff Arts Plaza, Dr. Phillips Center, Downtown Orlando
Celebrate Central Florida’s diversity at FusionFest, featuring multicultural performances, dance, music, and a vibrant international food court with tastes from around the world.
9. Starry Night Holiday Event
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Location: Basecamp at Sunbridge, St. Cloud
Enjoy a festive holiday market just south of Lake Nona, featuring local artisan vendors, handmade seasonal crafts, and a relaxed, family-friendly setting. This event is perfect for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind gifts and a more intimate holiday experience.
More holiday things to do in Orlando
Thanksgiving week is just the start of the holiday celebrations across Central Florida. If you’re craving more memorable things to do in Orlando or want to make Orlando events a whole-week adventure, check out these bonus highlights:
Theme Parks & Holiday Spectaculars:
Walt Disney World and Universal Studios pull out all the stops in late November, with Disney Springs turning into a shopper’s and foodie’s dream, while Universal’s parks boast Grinchmas fun and Macy’s Parade balloons. Most resorts on International Drive feature unique light displays, pop-up live shows, and celebrity sightings this time of year.
Lake Eola Park Downtown Festivities:
As winter approaches, Lake Eola Park installs massive Christmas decorations, outdoor markets, and free movie nights. Check the city calendar for food trucks, pop-up performances, and holiday markets—there’s always something happening in the heart of downtown.
Winter Park Holiday Parade:
A Central Florida tradition, this festive parade includes marching bands, vintage cars, and giant balloon floats, all set against the backdrop of historic Winter Park. Perfect for families and anyone wanting the full small-town holiday vibe.
International Drive Attractions:
Take advantage of Orlando magical experiences like ICON Park’s giant observation wheel, SeaLife Aquarium’s Deck the Seas celebration, and holiday-themed mini golf. International Drive is home to a whirlwind of themed pop-ups and seasonal eats.
Visit Orlando’s Insider Deals:
Always check Visit Orlando for seasonal deals, VIP event access, and exclusive dining experiences throughout Thanksgiving weekend.
Holiday Brunches & Dinners:
Orlando area restaurants—especially along International Drive and in downtown Orlando—offer special Thanksgiving Day dining and brunches, often with a side of live music or waterfront views.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving week in Orlando is about much more than the big meal—it’s a citywide invitation to connect, explore, and be inspired. From world-renowned theme parks to the creative pulse of downtown Orlando and the small-town warmth of places like Eustis and St. Cloud, you’ll find a universe of things to do.
Whether you choose to discover art in Winter Park, dance at FusionFest, marvel at lights in Leu Gardens, or cheer for runners at a turkey trot, Orlando events in late November create memories that stretch well beyond the holiday. The wealth of options—from tree lightings to international food courts, from lakeside markets to the grand stages of Dr. Phillips Center and Universal Studios—proves there’s no city quite as welcoming, diverse, or vibrant as Orlando.
So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and head out to experience the magic. Let this guide to Orlando events around Thanksgiving help you find your next favorite tradition—and perhaps spark new reasons to give thanks, right here in Central Florida.
