Dr. Phillips Center launches free Frontyard Holiday Festival supported by AdventHealth
Elected officials, community partners, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and a festive elf gather for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially ushering in the start of the Frontyard Holiday Festival.
Moments after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees were surprised by a burst of confetti snowflakes and falling snow, adding a magical start to the Frontyard Holiday Festival.
“This festival represents the next chapter of our mission—to create a place where everyone in our community loves to be,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president & CEO of Dr. Phillips Center. “Transforming Seneff Arts Plaza into a holiday destination fulfills a long-held vision of creativity, joy and the power of community.”
What to expect:
Opening December 4, 2025, and running weekly for 28 days through January 4, 2026, the arts center’s three-acre lawn—including Seneff Arts Plaza—will come alive with more than 80 live performances, twinkling light displays, fire pits, nightly snowfalls and family-friendly activities with 300,000 guests anticipated to attend.
An iconic illuminated tree sponsored by The Main Law Firm will greet guests entering South Street, featuring a nightly tree lighting ceremony powered by OUC – The Reliable One — creating a one-of-a-kind destination for holiday magic.
The festival will also be part of the City of Orlando’s Downtown Development Board’s annual Downtown for the Holidays, presented by AdventHealth. This programming serves as a festive kickoff to the Holiday Stroll in Downtown Orlando, creating the perfect opportunity for visitors to enjoy the event as they make their way through downtown’s holiday lights and activities.
Programming:
The free festival shines a spotlight on Central Florida’s vibrant arts community including weeknight caroling sponsored by Massey Services, Inc. Performances will feature local favorites including Dr. Phillips Center’s Quarter Notes and Four Counts, Opera Orlando, Central Florida Community Arts, Orlando Gay Chorus, Brass Band of Central Florida, Central Florida Vocal Arts’ Belles and Beaux and several local high school ensembles.
On the main stage at Seneff Arts Plaza, guests can look forward to holiday movie nights featuring beloved classics like Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, The Polar Express, The Santa Clause, A Christmas Story and The Nightmare Before Christmas.
The lineup also includes performances by Tymisha Harris, Ericka Dunlap, April Brown & After 5, Orchestra Fuego, Jarred Armstrong, Will Patrick, 3 and a Half Men, Chase Shellee & the Underground Retro, Derrick Harris & the Eighth Note Collective and The Yuletide Treasures.
Adding to the magic, the only transportable carillon in North America will make a special appearance. Nearly four tons of bronze bells will play sounds of the season and guests will have a chance to learn about this instrument.
Guests will also be able to interact with Santa through various experiences, sponsored by FAIRWINDS Credit Union, savor seasonal favorites like s’mores and hot cocoa or indulge in specialty cocktails, gelato, decorative waffles, BBQ and more.
New Year’s Eve celebration:
To ring in 2026, a special New Year’s Eve family celebration on December 31 will feature an interactive DJ playing holiday mashups, LED wands and a 9 p.m. community countdown to welcome in the New Year.
A vision of community and connection:
Since opening in 2014, Dr. Phillips Center has provided more than 63,900 tickets to community members through its engagement initiatives—a tradition that continues through this new holiday festival.
AdventHealth will continue to support the arts center’s community programming, helping make the festival a tradition here in Orlando.
During her remarks, Sharon Line Clary of AdventHealth said the festival helps the community feel whole during a season of togetherness.
“The holidays are a special time to pause, connect and celebrate the moments that bring us joy,” said Sharon Line Clary, senior vice president of community impact and partnership engagement at AdventHealth. “We’re honored to be part of the Frontyard Holiday Festival — an event that brings our community together in the heart of downtown Orlando to share in light, laughter and hope. Through experiences like this, we’re helping our community feel whole — nurturing the body, mind and spirit during a season meant for togetherness.”
The festival is made possible through the generous support of AdventHealth, the City of Orlando’s Downtown Development Board, FAIRWINDS Credit Union, The Main Law Firm, OUC – The Reliable One, JCQ Services, Workscapes, Massey Services, Inc., The Good Pour, Orlando Magic and many other community partners.
Special thanks to media partners iHeartMedia, WESH2 & CW18, Clear Channel Outdoor and Orlando Weekly for helping spread the holiday spirit.
Event Details
What: Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center ™ supported by AdventHealth When: December 4, 2025 – January 4, 2026 Where: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Seneff Arts Plaza Admission: Free (select activities available for purchase)
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