Christmas in Florida: What UK Families Need to Know Before They Go
Dreaming of swapping frosty mornings and dark afternoons for sunshine, palm trees and festive magic? Spending Christmas in Florida is becoming an increasingly popular choice for UK families — and it’s easy to see why. From festive theme park celebrations to beachside Christmas dinners and dazzling holiday events, Florida offers a warm, memorable alternative to a traditional British Christmas.
That said, a Christmas holiday in the USA does come with a few differences and practical considerations. If you’re thinking about heading to Florida over the festive season, here’s everything UK families need to know before they go.
🎄 What Is Christmas Like in Florida?
Christmas in Florida is festive, colourful and surprisingly traditional — just with sunshine instead of scarves.
You’ll still find:
- Christmas trees (often decorated with tropical flair)
- Festive lights and carols
- Santa hats, wreaths and holiday parades
But expect them alongside:
- 20–25°C daytime temperatures
- Palm trees wrapped in fairy lights
- Santa in shorts and flip-flops
- Outdoor dining on Christmas Day
It’s festive without being wintry, which many families find refreshing — especially after a busy year.
🎢 Theme Parks at Christmas: Magical but Busy
If theme parks are part of your holiday plan, Christmas is one of the most magical — and busiest — times to visit.
Walt Disney World
Disney goes all out for Christmas, with:
- Special festive overlays on attractions
- Christmas trees themed to each park and resort
- Seasonal parades, shows and fireworks
- Festive snacks and limited-edition merchandise
Events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are hugely popular and often sell out weeks in advance.
Universal Orlando
Universal also embraces the festive season, with:
- Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Holiday parades and live performances
- Seasonal decorations throughout the parks
Top tip:
Theme parks are extremely busy from mid-December through New Year. Booking tickets early, using lightning lanes/express passes, and planning rest days is essential for families.
🌴 Weather: Warm, Not Hot (and Perfect for Exploring)
December is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise in Florida.
- Daytime temperatures: around 20–25°C
- Evenings: cooler (bring a light jumper)
- Rain: low compared to summer months
This makes Christmas an ideal time for:
- Theme parks without extreme heat
- Beach walks and outdoor dining
- Nature parks, springs and wildlife experiences
It’s warm enough to feel like a treat, but not so hot that kids get exhausted quickly.
🍽 Christmas Day Dining: What to Expect
Christmas Day in Florida feels very different from the UK — mainly because restaurants, attractions and shops often remain open.
Your dining options include:
- Festive Christmas Day meals in restaurants or hotels
- Traditional turkey dinners with American twists
- Resort buffets and themed dining experiences
- Casual beachside meals or BBQ-style options
Important:
Christmas Day dining must be booked in advance, especially in tourist areas like Orlando. Many restaurants fill up weeks ahead.
If you’re staying in a villa, some families prefer:
- A relaxed self-catered Christmas breakfast
- Dining out later in the day
- Or a mix of home comforts and dining experiences
🎁 Shopping & Presents: Yes, You Can Still Do Christmas Properly
If you’re worried about missing out on presents — don’t be.
- Florida has huge shopping malls and outlet centres
- Christmas sales often start before 25 December
- Supermarkets stock Christmas treats and decorations
- Gift delivery to hotels or villas is common
Some families even enjoy doing their Christmas shopping in Florida, taking advantage of US brands and prices.
🧳 What to Pack for a Florida Christmas
Packing for Christmas in Florida is easier than you think:
Bring:
- Light summer clothes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear
- A light jacket or jumper for evenings
- One festive outfit (for photos or dining)
Leave behind:
- Heavy coats
- Scarves and gloves
- Bulky winter layers
It’s Christmas — just with a much lighter suitcase.
🎆 New Year’s Eve in Florida
If you’re staying through New Year, Florida puts on a show.
- Fireworks at theme parks
- Family-friendly countdown events
- Beachfront celebrations
- Resort parties and special dinners
New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year, so advance planning is key — especially if travelling with children.
✈️ Travel Tips for UK Families
- Flights: Christmas is peak season — book early for the best prices
- ESTA & passports: Ensure passports are valid and ESTA applications are completed well in advance
- Jet lag: Flying west is usually easier for children, but plan relaxed first days
- Car hire: Strongly recommended, especially during the festive period
Christmas travel is busy everywhere — but with the right planning, it can be smooth and enjoyable.
🎅 Is Christmas in Florida Right for Your Family?
A Florida Christmas is ideal if:
- You want guaranteed festive magic without cold weather
- Your family loves theme parks, sunshine and outdoor activities
- You’re open to celebrating Christmas a little differently
- You want a memorable, stress-free holiday experience
It may not replace a traditional British Christmas forever — but as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s hard to beat.
✨ Plan Your Florida Christmas with Florida Sorted
At Florida Sorted, we specialise in tailor-made holidays for UK families — including Christmas and New Year trips. Whether you want villas, hotels, multi-centre stays, park tickets or festive dining advice, we’ll help you plan a Christmas that truly works for your family.
🎄 Ready to start planning?
👉 Enquire for free here:
https://floridasorted.com/enquire/
