Snow, Ice & Gingerbread – Holiday Celebrations Orlando!

If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit without leaving sunny Florida, the Snow, Ice & Gingerbread tour is worth considering. This 6-hour adventure offers a festive blend of dazzling gingerbread creations, icy art displays, and a faux snow fall—all set against Orlando’s vibrant backdrop of Disney magic.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines the warmth of holiday cheer with some cool, wintry fun—literally. The chance to wander through a life-sized gingerbread house and glide down ice slides makes it a playful outing. Also, the admission to the ICE exhibit at Gaylord Palms is a standout feature, offering a truly wintery escape while still in the Sunshine State.

That said, the tour isn’t perfect for everyone. The cost of $119 per person might feel steep for some, especially since food and drinks aren’t included. But if you’re after a festive, family-friendly outing or just want to see the holiday displays in full swing, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for those who love visual spectacles and aren’t averse to a bit of chilly fun.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: A lively blend of holiday cheer, gingerbread sights, and icy sculptures.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, especially those wanting a winter wonderland experience.
• Detailed Displays: Features the impressive, life-sized gingerbread houses and intricate ice sculptures.
• Unique Ice Experience: Walk through nearly two million pounds of hand-carved ice, slides included.
• Valuable Inclusion: Admission, parkas, and a walk through Celebration are part of the package.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure a more personal and relaxed experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Entails: A Deep Dive into the Festivities

Starting Point: Disney Resort Gingerbread Displays

The tour kicks off at the Walt Disney World Resort, where you’ll get the chance to see some of the most spectacular gingerbread creations crafted by Disney’s own baking team. Think life-sized gingerbread houses and moving carousels—the sights and smells here are enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble.

Travelers often mention how enchanting it is to see these elaborate edible structures, and the aroma of baked gingerbread and spices fills the air, adding to the holiday magic. The displays are so detailed that you might find yourself tempted to start tasting them! It’s a kid’s dream (and quite Instagram-worthy), but keep in mind these are displays, not treats.

Gaylord Palms ICE Exhibit

Next, you’ll head over to the Gaylord Palms Resort for the ICE! attraction, a highlight that gets rave reviews. The experience is a walk-through winter wonderland showcasing carved ice sculptures, many themed around this year’s Nutcracker story, with scenes from the ballet and reindeer decorations for Santa’s Christmas Eve flight.

The sculptures are hand-carved by artisans from China, and the entire exhibit uses nearly two million pounds of ice. The 18,000 square feet of icy art is illuminated with stunning fluorescent and fiber optic lights, creating a magical glow that really elevates the experience. The icy landscape features three-dimensional sculptures and slippery slides, which are a ton of fun but definitely require a sense of caution.

The Ice Slides and Snowfall

One of the best parts? The ice slide—a true thrill for kids and adults alike. As you glide down, you might feel like you’re in a snow globe, despite the Florida sunshine outside. The annual snow fall at Celebration is another surprise, giving everyone a taste of winter—an especially welcome touch when you’re far from the real cold.

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Reflecting on the Season’s Meaning

A touching element of this tour is the ice Nativity scene, a well-loved feature that captures the true spirit of the holidays. The dramatic lighting and narrated soundtrack help bring the story of Christmas to life, making it a thoughtful pause amidst all the festive fun.

Free Time and Additional Highlights

After exploring the ICE exhibit, you’ll have some free time in Celebration, a charming town where you can watch the snow fall—an artificial, but surprisingly convincing, flurry of snow that adds to the winter vibe. You can take photos, enjoy the atmosphere, or just soak in the holiday sights and sounds.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

For $119, you get quite a comprehensive package. The tour includes admission to the gingerbread displays at Walt Disney World hotels, entry into the ICE exhibit at Gaylord Palms, and a rental of an oversized parka to keep warm inside the icy exhibit. Plus, there’s some free time in Celebration for that snow fall and sightseeing.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to nibble on snacks or enjoy a holiday meal during your outing. It’s worth noting that since the tour is limited to 10 participants, it feels more intimate, and guides can give personalized insights—something many travelers appreciate.

Transportation and Timing

The tour is about 6 hours long, with pick-up arrangements (contact the operator the day before for details). Keep in mind that the pick-up time could be up to an hour before the tour begins, so be ready early. The small group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through icy spaces and potentially slippery surfaces. Donors should bring their camera to capture the magical moments, and autograph books if you’re traveling with kids or want to collect souvenirs from your guides.

Accessibility and Language

The tour is offered in English, and the small group size helps facilitate a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a festive, family-friendly experience that mixes holiday traditions with fun, chilly surprises, then this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy spectacular displays and want a break from Florida’s usual sunshine—even if just temporarily. The ice sculptures and gingerbread houses are visually stunning, and the Snowfall in Celebration adds that winter magic we all crave during the holiday season.

However, if you’re looking for a luxury or gourmet experience, or you aren’t keen on cold weather, this might not be the best fit. The price point could seem high for some, considering food isn’t included, and the experience is largely visual and tactile rather than a culinary adventure.

All in all, this tour offers a whimsical and memorable holiday outing that’s perfect for those wanting to celebrate the season with a little extra sparkle and snow—Florida style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific age range this tour is suitable for?
This experience is generally suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy holiday sights and icy fun. It’s family-friendly, but always check with the operator if traveling with very young children.

What should I wear on the tour?
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and long trousers. Since you’ll be inside the ICE exhibit, you’ll be provided with oversized parkas, but dress warmly for the outdoor or less temperature-controlled parts.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

How long is the tour, and what is the group size?
The tour lasts about 6 hours and is limited to 10 participants, making it a more intimate experience.

Are there any physical considerations?
The ICE exhibit involves walking on slippery surfaces and some slides, so wear appropriate footwear and use caution.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve now & pay later. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.

If you’re craving a holiday adventure that combines the sparkle of gingerbread, the chill of ice sculptures, and a touch of Florida’s snowy fantasy, this tour could be just the thing. It’s a playful, visually stunning way to celebrate the season, especially if you’re visiting Orlando during the holidays.

You can check availability for your dates here: