The holidays are in full swing at Grande Lakes, and there is no better place to soak up the season’s magic. From Christmas highlights to ongoing winter activities and sparkling New Year celebrations, the resort offers something for everyone, families, couples, and friends alike.
Glide across the outdoor ice rink under twinkling lights, cozy up by private fire pits, or delight in festive holiday dining experiences that celebrate seasonal flavors and local ingredients. Keep your December calendar full with interactive mixology classes, immersive magic shows, and enchanting winter markets.
Below, we have rounded up this season’s can’t-miss events and experiences, perfect for creating lasting memories. Be sure to reserve early and check each event’s details to plan your festive outings.
1. Campari Dinner Series at Primo
$145 per person (+ 20% service charge & tax). To make a reservation, click here.
On December 5th, Primo will host a bespoke four-course dinner celebrating sustainability, community, and fresh local ingredients. Each course is paired with vibrant seasonal cocktails by Seanna Fenermore, creating an elevated, intimate dining experience full of flavor, perfect for the holiday season.
Check out the full article on our blog here for more on
2. Fire Pit Experience
Now to January 03, 2025 | The DaVinci Lawn | 5pm to 7pm and 8pm to 10pm
Gather around your own private campfire for a cozy evening filled with warm drinks, seasonal snacks, and the relaxing glow of the flames. The Fire Pit Experience includes a one-hour ice skating session for up to six guests, creating a perfect pairing of winter fun and fireside comfort. It is romantic, family-friendly, and great for groups looking for something unique at Grande Lakes. RSVP here!
Check out the full article on our blog here for more on the Fire Pit Experience.
3. Ice Skating at The DaVinci Lawn
Dates: Now through January 3, 2026 | Evening Seatings: 5 to 7 PM and 8 to 10 PM
Glide on real ice under the stars as festive lights glow around you. This outdoor skating experience brings classic winter charm to Orlando and runs through early January. Whether you are a confident skater or stepping onto the rink for the first time, the setting makes it unforgettable. Tickets are 25 dollars per person. Reserve early and enjoy one of the most photogenic seasonal experiences in Orlando.
Check out the full article on our blog for more on the ice skating experience.
4. The Drew Thomas Magic Show: Holiday Edition
December 4, 2025 to January 3, 2026 | Saturdays and Sundays
Grande Lakes hosts an electrifying performance from America’s Got Talent finalist Drew Thomas and his award-winning team. The show blends large-scale illusions, mind-bending magic, humor, and audience participation in an intimate setting where every seat feels close to the action. It is high energy, family friendly, and filled with gasp-worthy moments. VIP options and dinner pairings create the ultimate holiday night out.
5. Holiday Mixology Class at Whisper Creek Kitchen
Dates: December 6, 13, 20, 27 | Time: 11am to 12pm | The Farm at JW Marriott Orlando
Elevate your festive season with a complimentary cocktail class led by Trenton, the resort’s expert mixologist. This interactive experience invites guests to shake, stir, and sample signature creations while picking up practical tips that you can use at home. It is a relaxed and flavorful way to ease into the weekend, perfect for seasoned cocktail fans and curious beginners alike. The class is complimentary for resort guests.
6. Winter Wonderland Market
Dates: December 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27 | Time: 4pm to 8pm | The DaVinci Lawn
Walk into a Winter Wonderland at Grande Lakes, where a European-inspired holiday village comes to life with artisan crafts, seasonal treats, warm beverages, and cocktails by Campari. Hourly snowfall, festive chalets, and family-friendly surprises create a magical atmosphere for all ages. The market is paired with the resort’s newest additions, including the real ice skating rink and cozy fire pit experiences, making it a perfect post-holiday outing. Self-parking and valet parking are available for local guests, with self-parking offered exclusively at the JW Marriott Orlando.
7. Feast of the Seven Fishes at Primo
Date: December 24, 2025 | Time: 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Celebrate Christmas Eve with an elegant Italian tradition at Primo, a Michelin-recommended restaurant. The Feast of the Seven Fishes features a beautifully crafted selection of seafood dishes that honor Italian American holiday heritage. Enjoy a warm and festive evening filled with exceptional flavors and seasonal cheer in one of Orlando’s most celebrated dining rooms. Reserve early to secure your table for this special holiday experience.
8. Knife and Spoon Christmas Dinner
Dates: December 24 and 25, 2025 | Time: 5:30 PM to 10 PM
Celebrate Christmas with an award-winning dining experience at Knife and Spoon, where a special a la carte holiday menu brings together signature steakhouse dishes and elevated sustainable seafood. Enjoy highlights like white truffle risotto, a tender 48-hour short rib, and a festive dessert crafted for the occasion. This seasonal offering blends luxury and comfort for a memorable holiday meal. Reserve early to secure your table for one of the season’s most anticipated Christmas dinners.
9. Highball and Harvest Christmas Buffet
Date: December 25th | Time: 2 PM to 8 PM | Price: $155 Adults, $55 Children 12 and under
Celebrate Christmas Day with a generous Southern-style buffet at Highball and Harvest, featuring farm-fresh sides, comforting holiday classics, and a beautiful dessert spread. This festive feast is designed to bring families together over warm flavors and joyful traditions. Reservations are required, so be sure to secure your spot early and enjoy a cozy, stress-free holiday meal filled with seasonal spirit, comfort, and plenty of cheer.
10. Citron Christmas Buffet
Date: December 24 and 25 | Time: 5 PM to 9 PM | Price: $140 Adults, $45 Children 4 to 12, 3 and under free
Celebrate Christmas with a festive buffet at Citron featuring artisan cheeses, charcuterie, fresh seafood, burrata salad, butternut squash bisque, roasted vegetables, herbed sourdough stuffing, and carving station favorites like free-range roasted turkey, herb-crusted prime rib, and salt-baked grouper. Chef creations include short rib pastrami, seared scallops, and campanelle bolognese, plus a dedicated kids’ station. Reservations are required for this joyful holiday feast.
11. New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Fizz at The Ritz-Carlton
Date: December 31, 2025 | Time: 7 PM to 1 AM | Price: $1,000 (up to four guests per table)
Welcome the new year with an exclusive VIP celebration at The Lobby Lounge inside The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. Enjoy live music from a rock band by Brocato Entertainment, premium seating on the sundeck, a Belvedere 10 martini on arrival, a bottle of Dom Perignon Luminous, and a lavish seafood tower. This elegant experience is designed for an unforgettable countdown to 2026. Tables accommodate up to four guests, and a 250 dollar advance deposit is required. Ages 21 and up. Reserve early to secure your spot for one of the most luxurious New Year’s events in Orlando.
12. New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Grande Lakes
Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 | Time: 12:00 am
Welcome 2026 with a spectacular fireworks show over Grande Lake as the sky comes alive with brilliant color and shimmer. This breathtaking display offers the perfect grand finale to your New Year’s celebrations, creating a magical moment for families, couples, and friends. Find a cozy spot by the water, take in the reflections on the lake, and enjoy a sparkling start to the year ahead.
From intimate holiday dinners and lavish buffets to sparkling New Year celebrations and magical family activities, Grande Lakes delivers a full season of joy and festive cheer.
There is something for everyone, whether you are seeking culinary experiences, outdoor winter fun, or immersive entertainment.
Be sure to visit Grande Lakes for updates, check reservations and event details, and secure your spot early for a seamless and memorable holiday season.
