Christmas in Florida Theme Parks

by Adele Woodyard
Legoland Winter Haven, may be the newest entry in holiday themes among the biggies but its 30-foot tree made of bricks is no match to Tampa’s Busch Gardens Christmas Town. The brand-new tradition is a separate ticket event that runs from 6-11 p.m .Fri-Sun through Dec. 23, and its trees are built of bright red poinsettias. Kids have a Snow World play area made of snow where they can make a snowman, and take a slide down the white stuff. They can even throw snowballs at a target across the street. Of course there’s a Santa to visit in his house along Candy Cane Lane, and a dinner buffet by Mrs. Santa for the hungry. No kids? Adults will still enjoy the Carol of the Bells show at Crown Colony House restaurant, and ice skaters Angels of Peace; A Christmas Journey on Ice at the Moroccan Palace. Then there’s the African penguins or rides on Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra and Gwazi that will be open. Advance tickets online: $24.99 adult, $9.99 children; general admission $39.99 and $14.99. Discount tickets also at various venues. http://www.christmastown.com
Orlando:
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is another after hours celebration with Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, holiday characters and fireworks. 7 p.m. special days. $67.95-$53.95, Walt Disney World, 1515 N. Buena Vista Dr. Lake Buena Vista. 407-934-7639. However, the New Fantasyland opened Dec. 9. Although the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train steel coaster won’t be until 2014, here’s what’s new in the expanded Magic Kingdom update. Enchanted Tales with Belle combines audience participation with a chatty candelabra. There’s a magic mirror ro walk through and a talking Wardrobe that assigns roles to guests for the play-acting. A sea witch named Ursula menaces kids who ride through caves and under waterfalls in a giant clamshell before they can talk the Little Mermaid in Ariel’s Grotto. Storybook Circus , where Mickey’s Toontown used to be, has two Dumbo rides among its offerings. Prices start at $89 per day adult, $83 ages 3-9; discounts available advance purchase online 407-939-1289. http://www.disneyworld.disney.go.com
It’s the famous Macy’s Holiday Parade straight from the Big Apple to Universal Studios in Florida, until Jan. 1, 2013. After viewing the huge balloons of your favorite characters, colorful floats and bands, you can take in Dr. Seuss’s holiday tale and Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Hours, dates may vary. For info and ticket prices on Florida residents and non-Florida visitors contact 888-339-6277. http://www.universalorlando.com
It’s lighted trees choreographed to holiday music at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, with fountains and fireworks. Shows with such performers as otters, sea lions and a walrus; ice skaters, Shamu, Sesame Street and more round out the entertainment. $89 adult, $81 ages 3-9. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. Sun., 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat 800-327-2424. http://www.seaworldorlando.com .