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2011 Theme Park Christmas and Holiday Events

By , About.com Guide

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Parks generally used to call it a season soon after Labor Day. But, over the last few years, most have remained open for Halloween events. More recently, however, seasonal parks--even ones in places where the mercury can dip well below freezing and snow is likely--have been extending their seasons straight through to January with festive holiday celebrations.

Want to know where to find bazillions of twinkling lights, visits from St. Nick, elaborate holiday-themed stage shows, and, yes, coasters and other rides amid winter's chill? Put on your thermal-lined Santa cap and peruse the guide to Christmas at theme parks.

Christmas at Disney World

Disney. Used with permission.

When Disney decks its parks, it just might be the most wonderful time of the year. It's certainly among the busiest. Get the lowdown on Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Epcot's Candlelight Processional, the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, and more holiday fun at the Florida resort.

Read more about Christmas at Disney World.

Christmas at Disneyland and Other California Theme Parks

Disney. Used with permission.
Despite (or because of?) the bright sun and warm temperatures, folks in SoCal must long for snow. What else would explain the many parks that offer honest-to-goodness snow (well, machine-made honest-to-goodness snow) as part of their Christmas and holiday events? See which parks have the white stuff, and learn other details.
Read more about Christmas at Disneyland and other California parks.

Christmas at Six Flags

Six Flags. Used with permission.
Only three parks participate in Six Flags' Christmas merry-making. Find out where.
Read more about Six Flags Holiday in the Park.

More Florida Christmas Theme Park Events

Universal Orlando. Used with permission.
Disney World is not the only place in Florida to find holiday fun. There's also Macy's Holiday Parade and Grinchmas at Universal Orlando and SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration.
Learn more about Florida Christmas Theme Park Events

Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell Parks 2011

Silver Dollar City. Used with permission.
It's not just the major parks that offer holiday fun. A surprising number of parks in places that can get quite cold (and snowy!) also have seasonal events.
Go to the Jingle Bell Parks 2011 Christmas Guide for a complete rundown.

More Fun for the Holidays

There are places other than theme parks to find Christmas and holiday fun, and About.com's Family Vacations Guide has a great overview of Christmas train rides, tree lightings, Santa sightings, and more.

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