Watching a movie outdoors in the crisp, cool air can really give you a case of the warm holiday fuzzies. Unfortunately for Central Floridians, the winter chills never fully reach Orlando in time for Christmas. However, there are several spots around Orlando where you can bundle up with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy some holiday movie classics, regardless of the temperature.
UCF’s Outdoor Holiday Film Festival
Light Up UCF welcomes guests to the University of Central Florida campus each year to skate on Orlando’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink. The event also hosts a holiday light show, rides and games, photos with Santa, and an outdoor holiday film festival. Past years have shown classics such as “A Christmas Story,” “Home Alone,” and “A Miracle on 34th Street.” Screenings are held on Friday and Saturday evenings starting November 15 and conclude on December 28. Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs.
Holiday Movie Night at Leu Gardens
The enchanting Leu Gardens knows how to let loose for the holidays! Known for sometimes screening edgy-but-hilarious holiday staples such as “National Lampoons’ Christmas Vacation,” Leu Gardens allows guests to bring alcohol in addition to picnic baskets and lawn chairs. Their Friday night show time starts at 7:30 p.m. While adult admission is $6 and children 4–17 years of age cost $3, Leu Garden members get in for free.
À La Cart’s Holiday Movie Month
Street food and craft brews collide at À La Cart Orlando. Each week, the family-friendly social dining space hosts Movie Mondays on the lawn at 7 p.m. The trendy bar and eatery’s events are free to the public and often end with a raffle of movie themed prizes. À La Cart will be showing outdoor Christmas movies on the following nights this December:
• Monday, December 2 (7 p.m.–10 p.m.) – “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas” / “Die Hard”
• Monday, December 9 (6 p.m.–10 p.m.) – “Shrek the Halls” / “National Lampoons’ Christmas Vacation”
• Sunday, December 15 (5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) – “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” / “The Grinch”
• Monday, December 23 (7 p.m.–10 p.m.) – “Frosty the Snowman” / “Seinfeld” Festivus Episode / “Elf”
Saturday Matinee Classics at Enzian Theater
Although it’s not technically outdoors, the Enzian Theater in Maitland, Florida is one of Orlando’s premiere art houses for classic and independent cinema. On Saturday, December 14 at noon, they will be screening Frank Capra’s holiday masterpiece “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The beloved Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed classic has become a perennial holiday favorite and has helped define the spirit of Christmas.
Snuggle up at Rosen
The Rosen Inn is the perfect place to stay while enjoying a holiday stay in The City Beautiful. We’re located off of International Drive—near all of Orlando’s most popular attractions—and offer luxurious comfort at affordable prices. Book your stay today by calling the Rosen Inn at 407-996-4444 or clicking “Check Room Availability” at the top of the page.
