Step Into the Light: ILLUMINATE is Orlando’s Brightest Holiday Lantern Festival

 

Aquatica Orlando has transformed into a radiant paradise this holiday season with Illuminate, a brand-new Orlando lantern festival! Illuminate is perfect for families searching for holiday activities, Christmas light festivals, and unforgettable nighttime adventures. Running select nights now through Jan. 31, 2026; this separately ticketed experience invites guests to explore five dazzling realms of light and wonder in Orlando’s newest festival of lights.

 

Why ILLUMINATE Is Orlando’s Must-See Holiday Event

 

Whether you're looking for a Christmas nighttime festival, fun holiday activities, or a stunning lantern event reminiscent of Asian lantern festivals, Illuminate brings it all together with Aquatica’s tropical twist. Unlike traditional holiday light displays, this immersive celebration blends vibrant lantern art, interactive elements, and seasonal culinary delights. From luminous animal guardians to candy-colored dreamscapes, the entire experience shines brighter than your average Orlando light show.

 

Explore Five Immersive Realms

 

1. AquaLuma

At AquaLuma you can meet the five legendary guardians: Roa the Kiwi, Papa the Spoonbill, Wae Wae the Takahe, Kata the Kookaburra, and Ihu the Gecko. You won’t want to miss the radiant wildlife that transforms this realm into a glowing festival of lights.

2. Candy Cascade Falls

Step into a sugary wonderland where gummy bear guardians awaken a forest of sweets. Lollipop trees gleam, peppermint paths shine, and every laugh makes the candy sparkle as the falls flow sweeter.

3. Enchanted Lagoon

Born from a moonlit pearl, this mystical cove is watched over by a bright mermaid. Join “Wishes by the Water,” a lantern activity where families release illuminated dreams across the lagoon. You’ll leave with a complimentary keepsake to carry the moment (and your wish) home.

4. Myst Wood Waters

In a forest where dragonflies taught light to dance, a Great Tree of Light pulses with energy. Step on an interactive mat to awaken brilliant displays like lantern birds, bubbles, and chameleons to bring the woods alive.

5. Rivers of Discovery

Celebrate the animals that inspire and the parks that protect SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay, and Discovery Cove. Lantern-lit safaris showcase dolphins, flamingos, giraffes, and lions, each telling a story of wonder and care.

 

Activities & Entertainment

 

• Kiwi Santa Meet & Greet – Bring cozy holiday vibes to life by taking part in meet-and-greets with Kiwi Santa and his merry elves or writing a letter to Santa at the craft station (included with admission).
• Wishes by the Water – Families can take part in a mystical wishing experience. Guests will write a wish, seal it in a decorative keepsake vial, and receive a small lantern to “release their wish” into the water.
• *Serengeti Express Train Ride – This add-on experience invites the young and young at heart to ride through a lantern safari of lions, zebras, and giraffes; making it one of the most unique family fun holiday activities in Central Florida.
• S’mores by the Shore – Surrounded by the twinkling night sky, gather around the fire and create your own S’mores. This nostalgic experience is included with your Sip & Savor Sampler Lanyard to make your evening sweeter.

 

Flavors to Savor

 

Indulge in over 25 exclusive menu items like:

• All Grown Up Grilled Cheese (with tomato dipping sauce)
• Home for the Holidays - Roasted Turkey and cornbread stuffing, topped with chef made gravy.
• Midnight Street Empanadas - with cilantro crema
• S’mores Pizza

 

Sip on festive drinks like the Candy Cane Kiss Martini and the Midnight Mocktail while exploring three unforgettable themed bars this season:

• Ke-Re’s Spirit of Safari whisks you away on an exotic adventure with bold flavors and a glowing, wild-inspired vibe.
• Trader Turi’s Tinsel Bar turns up the holiday cheer with tropical Christmas décor and seasonal sips.
• Midnight at Motu’s keeps the New Year’s celebration alive with shimmering décor, lively cocktails, and hourly countdowns for nonstop fun.

For extra savings, grab a Sip & Savor Sampler Lanyard with 5 or 10 tasting options.

 

A Journey Through Light and Imagination

 

Illuminate at Aquatica Orlando is more than a holiday event; it’s a Christmas lantern festival through light, color, and creativity. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic date night, or a festive evening with friends, this immersive experience delivers one of Orlando’s most breathtaking night lights lantern events. Plus, tickets make a great holiday gift!

 

Ready to beam Get your tickets now and step into a world of wonder!

 

* Please Note: Serengeti Express Train Ride is a separately ticketed experience.