ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 The holidays are taking center stage in downtown Orlando.<\/p>\n
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts unveiled its first-ever Frontyard Holiday Festival on Thursday.<\/p>\n
The 3-acre outdoor space in front of the center has been transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring a Christmas tree, fire pits, nightly snowfalls, movie nights, light displays and more.<\/p>\n
The free month-long festival aims to shine a spotlight on Central Florida\u2019s arts community with more than 80 live performances and caroling scheduled.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo, everything downtown is free,\u201d said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. \u201cThis one is going to have I think they said 86 different performances during the course of the holiday season some during the day, so this is really incredible and I think people are going to be surprised when they come down here.\u201d<\/p>\n
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it\u2019s FREE)<\/a> | PINIT! Share your photos<\/a>] <\/p>\n The Dr. Phillips Center says performances will feature local favorites including Dr. Phillips Center\u2019s Quarter Notes and Four Counts, Opera Orlando, Central Florida Community Arts, Orlando Gay Chorus, Brass Band of Central Florida, Central Florida Vocal Arts\u2019 Belles and Beaux and several local high school ensembles.<\/p>\n On the main stage at Seneff Arts Plaza, guests can look forward to holiday movie nights featuring beloved classics like \u201cDr. Seuss\u2019 The Grinch,\u201d \u201cThe Polar Express,\u201d \u201cThe Santa Clause,\u201d \u201cA Christmas Story\u201d and \u201cThe Nightmare Before Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Guests will also be able to interact with Santa through various experiences sponsored by FAI, savor seasonal favorites like s\u2019mores and hot cocoa or indulge in specialty cocktails, gelato, decorative waffles, BBQ and more.<\/p>\n To ring in 2026, a special New Year\u2019s Eve family celebration on Dec. 31 will feature an interactive DJ playing holiday mashups, LED wands and a 9 p.m. community countdown to welcome in the New Year.<\/p>\n The festival will be open through Jan. 4, 2026. <\/p>\n