Nick Hotel's Orlando Guide » Orlando Holiday Events

“ICE” at GAYLORD PALMS

Team Nick — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:36:14 +0000

Prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms presents ICE!, a walk-through Christmas attraction hand-carved from nearly TWO MILLION pounds of ice.

Fueled by a dose of holiday spirit and tempered by a cool pinch of irony, sunny Orlando is home to one of then nation’s most spectacular (and unusual) art attractions, now in its seventh year. Who says the holidays in Florida are all about sunshine and palm trees, anyway?

Inside a simulated winter environment, guests are immersed in a whimsical wonderland of larger-than-life, three-dimensional hand-carved ice monuments and scenes, including fantastic frozen creations, slippery ice speed slides, and heart-warming holiday vistas. As for the chill, visitors are given oversized parkas to stay comfortable inside the attraction, which is kept at a chilly 9 degrees.

This year, ICE! will take guests on a trip to the North Pole. And, tag along on Santa’s journey, beginning with an encounter with Old Man Winter, through an arctic forest, and into the middle of a Christmas Carnival, complete with a life-size carousel! Next, chill-seekers will be able to explore Santa’s ornament room, climb onto his oversized knee (an unusual photo op!), and watch as he and reindeer take flight.

The attraction’s signature scene-a life-size Nativity carved completely of crystal-clear ice-has been described as one of the most breathtaking depictions of the birth of Christ. Dramatic lighting and a stirring narrative track give guests an opportunity to pause and reflect on the story behind the season.

The award-winning attraction is carved by a team of 40 artisans from Harbin, China. The talented artisans spend more than a month in Kissimmee creating this one-of-a-kind attraction. Harbin is best known for its annual International Ice and Snow Festival, where more than 2,000 sculptors annually carve a 100-acre walk-through ice park, using ice from the nearby Songhua River.

Universal Studios Macy’s Holiday Party

Team Nick — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:08:39 +0000

Every night as dusk approaches, the New York Streets of Universal Studios Orlando becomes filled with anticipation as young kids and families eagerly await the holiday procession. At the Macy’s Holiday Parade, floats and balloons from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City are flaunted before their eyes. This riveting spectacle will have you on your feet as you watch mellifluous marching bands troop pass or active street performers dazzle you with their tricks and talents. After the parade stick around for a tree lighting ceremony complete with music and a spectacular lighting display.

Grinchmas at Universal Studios

Team Nick — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:06:22 +0000

The sights, sounds and attractions of Universal Studio’s greatest cinematic experience are transformed into one big holiday party welcoming the winter season. Come celebrate with Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure with a stroll around Seuss Landing and the holiday decorated Whoville Wonky Tree Lot. Meet the green Grinch himself or watch a live theatrical performance of Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Music recorded by Mannheim Steamroller leads the town of energetic Whos in dance and song to keep the bitter Grinch from ruining Christmas. The next day, start your day with an interactive character breakfast with the Grinch and his friends at the Confisco Grille.

Universal Studios Orlando offers much more holiday cheer. Sing-along to your favorite holiday tunes at the KidZone Holiday Show, Barney’s Christmas Show and Blue Brothers Christmas. At Universal 360 Cinesphere Spectacular, watch scenes from your favorite Hollywood movies projected onto enormous spheres at the Universal Studios Lagoon.

All of Universal Studio’s holiday events are available with the purchase of a 2-park admission ticket. Holiday events at Universal Studios Orlando are held from December 6, 2009 to Jan 1, 2010.

Magic Kingdom’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Team Nick — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:03:51 +0000

Once upon a time in Orlando’s Magic Kingdom, Disney characters roamed the snowy Main Street as Cinderella’s castle shined brightly behind them. At Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a slew of holiday festivities and live entertainment help you welcome the holiday season. Spot Santa Clause or your favorite Disney characters at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parade then watch colorful fireworks illuminate the night sky. Warm up with cookies and cocoa as you witness snow fall onto Main Street, U.S.A. afterwards, enjoy the other sights and attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

At Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, kids of all ages are invited to take part in this Disney winter wonderland. Events take place on select nights only and a separate ticket is required to attend. This year’s event will be held from 7:00PM to 12:00AM on the following dates: November 10, 12, 13, 17, 19, 20, and 29 and December 1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, and 18.

Special tickets are required. Order tickets by calling (407) 934-7639.

SeaWorld’s Polar Express Experience

Team Nick — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:00:52 +0000

All aboard the Polar Express as this whirlwind simulator ride at SeaWorld Orlando takes you on a journey beyond your wildest dreams. Based on the 2004 animated film, the Polar Express Experience gives adventurers one high-flying helicopter and fast-paced train ride. Pass scenes from the movie and experience realistic sounds, smells and motion effects that simulate a trek through the chilly North. First stop, the North Pole! Gentle beluga whales, friendly walruses and snow white polar bears are there to greet you. What would a journey to the North Pole be without jolly Old St. Nick and snow capped villages illuminated by the starry sky? Get ready for one fantastic ride starting with the all too familiar whistle of the Polar Express.

The Polar Express Experience takes place from November 13, 2009 – January 3, 2010.