Thanksgiving In Orlando – Best Things To Do + Events + Activities in 2023

Orlando offers a variety of activities and events during Thanksgiving. Here’s a list of things to do during Thanksgiving In Orlando, and save this exciting Orlando Thanksgiving guide. 

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Thanksgiving In Orlando – Orlando Thanksgiving Guide

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Orlando offers a unique blend of festive charm and diverse entertainment, with world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios hosting special events and spectacular holiday decorations, providing a magical backdrop for family gatherings. 

Orlando Thanksgiving Weather

In Orlando, Thanksgiving typically brings mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 18-23 degrees Celsius). Visitors can enjoy comfortable outdoor activities and festivities without the extreme cold often associated with other parts of the country during this time of year.

Orlando’s pleasant weather, vibrant dining scene, and cultural and outdoor activities make Orlando an inviting destination to create lasting Thanksgiving memories.

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Things to do in Orlando on Thanksgiving

1. Thanksgiving Dinner Shows: Enjoy special Thanksgiving-themed dinner shows offered by various venues or restaurants, like the “Feast of the Southern Buffet” at the hotels or “The Great Turkey Chase 5K” at Lake Eola. 
2. Theme Park Celebrations: Visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or SeaWorld for special Thanksgiving-themed events, character meet-and-greets, and festive decorations.
3. Outdoor Activities: Explore the beautiful weather with outdoor activities in places like Lake Eola Park, hike or bike ride along the West Orange Trail, or take an airboat tour through the nearby swamps and lakes.
4. Thanksgiving Parades: Look out for local parades that often celebrate Thanksgiving, such as the “Orlando Citrus Parade” or smaller community-based parades.
5. Cultural Events: Check out museums and cultural centers in Orlando that may host special exhibitions or events during Thanksgiving.
6. Shopping: Take advantage of Thanksgiving sales at the numerous malls and shopping centers in Orlando, such as the Mall at Millenia or the Orlando International Premium Outlets.
7. Volunteer Opportunities: Consider volunteering at local charities or soup kitchens to help serve meals to those in need. Organizations often need extra help during the holiday season.
8. Golfing: For golf enthusiasts, Orlando boasts several championship golf courses, and playing a round can be a great way to spend the day.
9. Farmers’ Markets and Food Festivals: Visit local farmers’ markets or festivals for unique Thanksgiving-themed ingredients and culinary experiences.
10. Spa Day: Treat yourself to a relaxing day at one of the many world-class spas in the area to unwind and recharge during the holiday.
11. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the beauty of Orlando from high above by taking a hot air balloon ride, offering stunning landscape views.
12. Escape Rooms or Interactive Games: Engage in challenging and fun escape room activities or interactive game centers with family and friends.

Orlando Thanksgiving Dinner

Orlando offers a wide array of dining options for Thanksgiving, ranging from traditional feasts to unique culinary experiences. Here are some places where you can enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal in Orlando:

1. Walt Disney World Resorts: Many Disney World resorts host elaborate Thanksgiving feasts at their restaurants, such as The Grand Floridian Café, California Grill, and Liberty Tree Tavern. 
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Various Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure restaurants serve Thanksgiving meals, including the classic Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings.
3. Rosen Hotels & Resorts: Rosen Shingle Creek, Rosen Plaza, and Rosen Centre typically offer grand Thanksgiving buffets with traditional holiday dishes and desserts.
4. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World: Experience a lavish Thanksgiving brunch or dinner at one of their upscale dining venues.
5. Gaylord Palms Resort: Their restaurants often host special Thanksgiving meals, combining traditional flavors with creative culinary twists.
6. Local Restaurants: Many restaurants throughout Orlando, such as The Ravenous Pig, Bull & Bear, and The Capital Grille, offer Thanksgiving specials or traditional dinners. 
7. The Alfond Inn: This Winter Park gem often hosts an exquisite Thanksgiving buffet featuring a variety of delectable dishes for the holiday.
8. Ocean Prime: Known for its upscale atmosphere, it typically offers a special Thanksgiving menu.
9. Taverna Opa: Enjoy a unique Greek twist on Thanksgiving with a special menu with Mediterranean flavors.
10. Columbia Harbour House: This Spanish-Cuban restaurant usually offers a special Thanksgiving menu featuring a mix of traditional Thanksgiving fare and signature dishes.

It is better to make reservations in advance, as Thanksgiving is a popular time for dining out, and many restaurants book up quickly. 

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Thanksgiving tours in Orlando

In Orlando, various tours and activities are available around the Thanksgiving season. While specific Thanksgiving-themed tours might be limited, you can still explore several tours and experiences that showcase the city’s attractions. Here’s a list of tours you might consider during Thanksgiving in Orlando:

1. City Tours: Enjoy guided city tours that cover iconic landmarks and historical sites around Orlando, including Lake Eola, Church Street Station, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
2. Theme Park Tours: Many tour operators offer guided tours within popular theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. These tours help maximize your park experience and provide insights into the attractions. 
3. Airboat Tours: Explore the unique natural beauty of Florida’s wildlife by taking an airboat tour through the nearby swamps and lakes. Experience the thrill of spotting alligators and various bird species in their natural habitat.
4. Brewery and Distillery Tours: Discover the local craft beer and spirits scene in Orlando by joining tours that take you through breweries and distilleries. Learn about the brewing process and sample some unique beverages.
5. Food Tours: Explore Orlando’s diverse culinary scene by taking a guided food tour. Sample dishes from local eateries and learn about the city’s food culture.
6. Segway Tours: Experience Orlando on a Segway tour, cruising through neighborhoods or parks while guides share interesting facts about the city.
7. Art and Culture Tours: Visit museums, galleries, and cultural centers on guided tours that delve into Orlando’s arts and cultural history. 
8. Haunted Tours: For a slightly different experience, consider spooky, haunted tours around Orlando that explore the city’s ghostly legends and eerie history.
9. Chocolate Factory Tours: Discover the sweet side of Orlando by visiting chocolate factories and indulging in delicious tastings while learning about the chocolate-making process.
10. Farm Tours: Explore nearby farms offering tours showcasing agriculture farm life and sometimes featuring seasonal activities or produce harvesting experiences.  
11. Guided Nature Walks: Take leisurely guided nature walks in nearby parks or gardens, learning about the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides. 

Festive events during Thanksgiving in Orlando

Orlando hosts various festive events during Thanksgiving, offering a range of activities for locals and visitors to enjoy the holiday season. Here are some famous events that typically take place in and around Thanksgiving in Orlando:

1. Walt Disney World: Disney World often starts the holiday season with special events, such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which typically begins before Thanksgiving. The parks are beautifully decorated, and special holiday-themed shows and parades commence.
2. Universal Orlando Resort: Universal Studios hosts the “Holidays at Universal Orlando,” featuring the Macy’s Holiday Parade, themed character meet-and-greets, and festive park decorations. 
3. SeaWorld Orlando: SeaWorld usually starts its Christmas celebration during Thanksgiving, with holiday-themed shows, Rudolph’s Christmastown, and the chance to meet Santa Claus.
4. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays: This event at EPCOT showcases holiday traditions worldwide, featuring unique food booths, live entertainment, and the Candlelight Processional with celebrity narrators.
5. Light-Up UCF: This annual event typically begins around Thanksgiving, featuring ice skating, rides, a holiday light show, and music at the CFE Arena.
6. Orlando Museum of Art Festival of Trees: This event often starts just before Thanksgiving, featuring beautifully decorated trees and holiday displays to raise funds for the museum.
7. The Nutcracker: Enjoy the classic holiday ballet performance of “The Nutcracker” by the Orlando Ballet, often beginning their shows around Thanksgiving.
8. Ice! at Gaylord Palms: Experience the “Ice!” exhibit, a spectacular display of ice sculptures and themed ice slides that often open around Thanksgiving for the holiday season. 
9. Winter Park’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony: Winter Park hosts a tree lighting ceremony in Central Park, ushering in the holiday season with music, entertainment, and the lighting of a majestic tree.
10. The Orlando Magic Basketball Games: If you’re a sports fan, catch a basketball game at the Amway Center with the Orlando Magic, often having games around Thanksgiving.

Now you know what to do in Orlando on Thanksgiving day with these best Things to do in Orlando on Thanksgiving weekend. I hope you plan a trip to Orlando with many fun Thanksgiving events and fantastic Orlando Thanksgiving dinner options. Save this and enjoy this Thanksgiving in Orlando.

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