Orlando Christmas Events 2026: Grande Lakes Brings Back Ice Skating, Festive Markets and Fireworks

Grande Lakes Orlando Marks Date with Santa Attractions & Entertainment Group News Mears Connect to Serve as Official Transportation Provider for NFL London Games Learn More Learn More Grande Lakes Orlando Will Go All Out for the Holidays Dec 4 2023 Luxury resort reopens its European Christmas Market and seasonal ice rink in time for Thanksgiving.

The Christmas Market will run through 2 January 2027, giving travelers even more time to experience the festivities of the season. The resort will debut its newly revitalized championship golf course on 1 November as part of the 2026 PNC Championship.

This 500-acre property in Central Florida pairs The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando making the destination great for family Christmas vacations, luxury travel and seasonal activity around Orlando’s theme parks.

Orlando’s Open-Air Ice-Skating Rink Returns on 25 November

Grande Lakes Orlando will reopen its signature outdoor ice-skating rink on 25 November, introducing a winter attraction within the resort’s landscaped grounds.

The resort describes the facility as Orlando’s only open-air ice-skating rink. Visitors can enjoy a traditional Christmas activity while experiencing Florida’s generally milder winter weather.

The resort will also introduce Rinkside Brasserie, where guests can order seasonal dishes from an à la carte menu. The nearby Fireside Lounge will offer gourmet s’mores and additional food selections.

Travellers who prefer a warmer holiday experience can use the resort’s heated swimming pools. Private Grande Cocoa Cabanas will provide hot chocolate with Grand Marnier, gourmet s’mores and dedicated food and beverage service.

This combination of outdoor skating and poolside relaxation gives visitors an alternative to conventional winter holiday destinations.

Grande Lakes Christmas Market Brings European Holiday Traditions to Florida

The Grande Lakes Christmas Market will operate from 25 November 2026 until 2 January 2027 on the resort’s Da Vinci Lawn.

According to the resort’s official winter programme, the market will open from 5 pm to 9 pm, featuring European-inspired cottages, artisan products, festive refreshments and hourly artificial snowfall.

Visitors can explore several themed shopping and dining chalets. The Signature Toy Shoppe will offer gifts and keepsakes, while the Alpine Chalet will serve Alpine Melts and currywurst sausages.

The Nutcracker Chalet will specialise in nuts and gourmet popcorn. Other stalls will offer pretzels, seasonal cocktails, hot chocolate, sweet treats and Christmas gifts.

Families can also participate in gingerbread decorating, ornament-making, face painting and creative workshops. These activities make the market suitable for travellers with children and visitors seeking an evening attraction outside Orlando’s theme parks.

Renovated Golf Course Reopens Ahead of PNC Championship 2026

Grande Lakes Orlando plans to reopen its renovated championship golf course on 1 November, ahead of the 2026 PNC Championship.

Two-time Open Championship winner Greg Norman and his design team have led the redesign, with improvements to practice facilities, putting surfaces and green contours.

The project also aims to protect the surrounding natural landscape and wildlife habitats.

Golf enthusiasts visiting Orlando during the festive season can combine resort activities with championship-level golfing opportunities. Travellers should confirm tee-time availability and tournament-related access restrictions before booking.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations Bring Fireworks and Luxury Dining

Grande Lakes Orlando will welcome 2027 with fireworks, live entertainment and several dining experiences.

At Primo, guests can choose between four-course and six-course New Year’s Eve dining experiences, followed by a Champagne toast. The restaurant’s private terrace will offer views of the midnight fireworks.

The JW Marriott’s EvrBar will host a celebration featuring live music, private party booths and a midnight countdown.

Guests can also reserve Champagne Cabanas for poolside dining, while the resort’s Kids Night Out programme will offer younger visitors games, crafts, music and their own countdown celebration.

Traveller’s Guide: Dates, Opening Hours and Booking Information

Visitors planning an Orlando Christmas holiday should check event schedules and reserve popular experiences ahead of their arrival.

The resort’s official website confirms the Christmas Market and ice-skating dates, although operating hours may change on selected days.

Travellers should also consider the following practical arrangements:

• Location: 4040 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837.
• Public access: The Christmas Market welcomes both resort guests and non-resident visitors.
• Tickets: Check skating admission prices and activity reservations before travelling.
• Accommodation: Explore the resort’s Festive Escape packages, including selected resort credits and skating benefits.
• Transport: Allow extra travel time during Christmas and New Year’s Eve, particularly when combining resort activities with theme park visits.

The JW Marriott’s advertised Festive Escape package includes a $100 resort credit per night and four one-hour skating tickets per stay, subject to booking terms and availability.

For the latest schedules, dining reservations and accommodation offers, visit the official Grande Lakes Orlando winter events page.

Why Grande Lakes Orlando Could Attract More Christmas Travellers

Grande Lakes Orlando, where seasonal attractions, high end hospitality and outdoor adventures are available in one location.

The longer Christmas Market opening dates offer visitors more flexibility than just Christmas Day while skating, Christmas meals, family activities and rides offer an alternative to the busy Orlando theme parks.

For those taking a winter break in Florida, visit to enjoy a true Christmas experience as well as heated pools, golf and year-round activities.

The fact that it offered both seasonal attractions and combo packages of accommodation might specifically attract families who look for multiple activities on the one resort.

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