Planning a visit to the Frontyard Holiday Festival at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts? This beloved Orlando tradition returns for the 2025–2026 season with a full month of free holiday entertainment, community performances, outdoor movies, and festive experiences. Below is a refreshed, easy-to-follow guide to help you make the most of your visit.
What Is the Frontyard Holiday Festival?
Each holiday season, the Seneff Arts Plaza transforms into an outdoor celebration filled with music, lights, and seasonal cheer. The festival is open to everyone and designed for all ages, offering:
- More than 80 live performances by local artists and ensembles
- Outdoor holiday movie nights
- Decorative lighting and seasonal installations
- Artificial snowfall moments throughout the evening
- Fire pits, games, and winter-themed activities
- A towering illuminated Christmas tree with nightly light-up moments
- Family activities, including Santa visits and interactive fun
Admission is free, with food, beverages, and select activities available for purchase.
Festival Dates & Hours
🗓 December 4, 2025 – January 4, 2026
📍 Seneff Arts Plaza, Dr. Phillips Center, Downtown Orlando
⏰ Typical hours:
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
(Hours and activities may vary depending on performances and special events.)
With events running for over four weeks, it’s easy to visit multiple times and enjoy something new each night.
Live Performances & Musical Entertainment
Throughout December, the plaza hosts rotating live performances, most commonly in the late afternoon and evening. Expect a diverse mix of musical styles and community talent, including:
Choirs & Ensembles
- Dr. Phillips Center youth vocal groups
- Opera Orlando with seasonal selections
- Central Florida Community Arts
- Orlando Gay Chorus
- Brass Band of Central Florida
- Central Florida Vocal Arts (Belles & Beaux)
- Local high school and student music programs
Most performances take place between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM, though times change daily.
Outdoor Holiday Movie Nights
Every Sunday evening, the plaza becomes an open-air movie theater. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs.
2025–2026 Movie Schedule:
- Dec 7: Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018)
- Dec 14: The Polar Express
- Dec 21: The Santa Clause
- Dec 28: A Christmas Story
- Jan 4: The Nightmare Before Christmas
📌 Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Featured Artists & Special Performances
In addition to choirs and movies, the festival showcases local musicians and bands performing holiday-inspired sets across multiple genres. Performers rotate throughout the season and may include:
Throughout December, you’ll likely encounter performances by local artists including:
- Tymisha Harris — soulful holiday tunes
- Ericka Dunlap — festive music with a powerful voice
- April Brown & After 5 — live band with joyful holiday sets
- Orchestra Fuego — classical meets holiday music
- Jarred Armstrong and Will Patrick — solo performers with a seasonal twist
- 3 and a Half Men — upbeat, crowd-friendly music
- Chase Shellee & the Underground Retro — retro holiday grooves
- Derrick Harris & the Eighth Note Collective — jazz/holiday fusion
- The Yuletide Treasures — themed seasonal performers
🕒 Performance times vary each day (usually afternoons into evenings), so I recommend checking the festival’s official performance calendar before you go.
Performance times vary daily, so checking the official schedule before your visit is highly recommended.
Tree Lighting, Snowfall & Atmosphere
A highlight of the festival is the nightly holiday tree illumination, often paired with artificial snowfall that adds a magical touch for guests of all ages. Seasonal bell music from a portable carillon enhances the old-fashioned holiday feel, especially after sunset.
Food, Drinks & Seasonal Treats
While entry is free, food vendors throughout the plaza offer winter favorites such as:
- Hot cocoa and specialty beverages
- S’mores and marshmallow roasting
- Waffles, gelato, and comfort foods
- BBQ selections and festive cocktails
Grab a snack and enjoy a performance under the lights.
New Year’s Eve Festivities (Dec 31)
The festival wraps up the year with a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring:
- A live DJ with upbeat holiday and party music
- Light-up accessories for guests
- A community countdown at 9:00 PM, perfect for younger attendees
Admission & Important Info
- Festival entry: Free
- Tickets required? No
- Registration needed? No
Just arrive during operating hours and enjoy.
Note: Ticketed performances inside the Dr. Phillips Center theaters are separate and require advance purchase.
Parking Tips
Downtown garages and street parking are available nearby. Weekends and evenings can get busy, so arriving early is a smart move.
Checking the Official Schedule
Because performances vary nightly, check the official calendar at:
🌐 https://www.drphillipscenter.org/frontyard-holiday-festival/ for the most up-to-date schedule
📞 Box Office Contact:
📱 407-358-6603
📧 [email protected]
Personal Experience & Overall Impression
The Frontyard Holiday Festival stands out for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. From watching families gather for movie nights to hearing live music echo through the plaza, the event feels genuinely community-driven. The snowfall moments and lighting displays create memorable photo opportunities, while the relaxed pace makes it easy to enjoy without feeling rushed.
Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or just looking for a festive evening downtown, it’s a holiday experience worth repeating.
🎁 Final Thoughts
The Dr. Phillips Center Frontyard Holiday Festival is one of Orlando’s best free seasonal events. With a month of entertainment, outdoor movies, live music, and holiday ambiance, it offers something special for locals and visitors alike. Plan ahead, check the daily schedule, and enjoy the season under the lights.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need tickets or registration?
No. The festival is free — just show up.
Are performances scheduled?
Yes. Show times vary by day, so check the official calendar.
Can I meet Santa?
Yes. Santa appears regularly (availability may vary).
Where should I park?
Nearby downtown garages and street parking are available. Arrive early on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes! The festival is great for families and kids of all ages.