Lakeland Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Lakeland and surrounding areas
Lakeland lights up the holiday season with Christmas lights and festive events along Lake Mirror and downtown, where the 44th Annual Lakeland Christmas Parade and Cirque Dreams Holidaze bring crowds to the Polk Theatre and Munn Park. The Lakeland Holiday Craft Show and seasonal markets offer family activities and opportunities for Santa visits amid twinkling lights. From ice shows to holiday shopping and community concerts, Lakeland provides many things to do and cozy holiday memories for visitors and families alike.
Find the best Lakeland Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
29 eventsExclusive holiday party with character meet-and-greets and festive entertainment.
Christmas Shows
19 eventsClassic holiday ballet performance by Next Generation Ballet
Christmas Parties
12 eventsImmersive, nonstop street party with midnight fireworks
Christmas Markets
10 eventsOver 200 artisans at a festive holiday craft show.
Christmas Activities
30 eventsFestive shopping, dining, and entertainment with nightly snowfall.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Holidays at Disney Springs
(Orlando)
Festive shopping, dining, and entertainment with nightly snowfall.
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Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
(Orlando)
Exclusive holiday party with character meet-and-greets and festive entertainment.
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Rocking New Year 2026
(Kissimmee)
Immersive, nonstop street party with midnight fireworks
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Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's
(Orlando)
Macy's star balloons and iconic characters in a theme park parade.
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Grinchmas at Universal Studios Florida
(Orlando)
Whoville-inspired holiday celebration with The Grinch
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Holidays at Universal Orlando
(Orlando)
Festive holiday celebrations across Universal Orlando Resort.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Lakeland
- 12 Days Of Cheer in Lakeland Published: Wed, Nov 26, 2025
- Florida Christmas and Holiday Parades List Published: Sun, Nov 23, 2025
Lakeland Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Lakeland
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Lakeland!
Lakeland Christmas FAQ
Major annual events often include large-scale Christmas light displays and community tree lighting ceremonies. Keep an eye on local listings for events at venues like the RP Funding Center or downtown festivals.
Lakeland often embraces traditions like community gatherings for tree lightings and elaborate neighborhood light displays that become local favorites. The festive atmosphere in the historic downtown area is also a cherished tradition.
Many residential neighborhoods throughout Lakeland go all out with decorations. Driving through various areas after Thanksgiving will reveal streets that are particularly known for their festive light displays.
Christmas markets and artisan fairs are often held in downtown Lakeland, at local community centers, or in public parks. Check local event calendars for specific dates and locations of these vendor markets.
Enjoying neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and exploring public decorations are excellent free options. Many markets also have free admission, allowing you to browse and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Families often enjoy visiting areas with abundant Christmas lights, attending Santa meet-and-greets at local venues, and exploring Christmas markets with kid-friendly activities. Many holiday shows and events are also geared towards younger audiences.