Santa Claus, holiday films on the big screen, ice skating, snow and a Christmas market return to the CFE Arena for the ninth annual Light Up UCF celebration.
Festivities begin Friday, Nov. 18, and include a new light show featuring more than 30,000 lights and music. The nightly activities run through Jan. 7.
At Light Up UCF, families can enjoy a number of complimentary activities including the new immersive holiday light show, the holiday film festival, Light Up Lane, and free parking.
The light show, presented by Orlando Sanford International Airport, is made up of thousands of individual lights that pulse and strobe across the arena façade, palm trees, ice rink and newly renovated plaza in synchronization set to holiday songs.
The falling “snow” will create a magical effect during light shows. The film festival allows families to gather under the stars to view their favorite holiday films on a two-story-tall movie screen each Friday and Saturday night.
Light Up Lane, presented by Coca-Cola, makes its return after last year’s popular debut. This fan favorite is a hands-on celebration of the holiday, set in a lighted Christmas tree forest that features large decorations. On select nights, Santa will be in Light Up Lane to receive Christmas wishes, and photos will be available for purchase.
The Light Up UCF ice rink, presented by Central Florida Expressway Authority, has become another favorite through the years. The ice rink in front of the CFE Arena serves as the centerpiece for the event. Guests are invited to enjoy Central Florida’s largest outdoor ice skating rink while gliding along to their favorite holiday tunes spun by a live disc jockey.
Produced by UCF Convocation Corp. and Spectra, managers of CFE Arena, Light Up UCF features some other new attractions suitable for the entire family. Rides range from an upgraded Ferris wheel, on which guests can enjoy a panoramic view of Light Up UCF and the UCF campus, to the Light Up Express Train, great for children of all ages. Visitors can also check out the Arctic Glide Ice Slide, where they can climb to the top of the towerand glide on disc sleds across the 100-foot ice way. Making its first appearance this year is the Winter Whirl. Climb aboard with all of your friends to experience this swinging sensation. The Duke Energy Community Stage will present local talent to watch.
Light Up UCF will also feature a great way to complete your holiday gift shopping this year. The Light Up UCF holiday market Under the Stars on Saturday, Dec. 10, will host local businesses and craftsmen showcasing gifts for family and friends. This holiday market is a perfect way for attendees to wrap up holiday shopping, while supporting small, local businesses.
Tickets for ice skating, rides and photos with Santa can be purchased at the CFE Arena box office. Select tickets are also available for purchase through Ticketmaster at Ticketmaster or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
More information and scheduling for all Light Up UCF events can be found at www.LightUpUCF.com.