by Yvonne Moore

Created on: August 22, 2008   Last Updated: December 08, 2008

Any month when the humidity is not at 90 percent and the temperature below 88 degrees, is considered a holiday in Orlando, Florida. Residents celebrate the temperate months of November through January for this reason and others. Hurricane season is over, the three world renowned theme parks are less crowded and the alligators are slow moving in the city's 300 lakes. For tourist, this is the best time of the year to visit.

Unbeknownst to many, Orlando has is its own special theme park. This community is home to Gatorland, a 110 acre alligator park in operation since 1949. Who wouldn't prefer to view these magnificent reptiles in a conservatory versus waking up a sluggish 12 footer while meandering one of the city's many lakes? The park's gift shop sells a variety of gator shaped candies, perfect for a last minute stocking stuffer or holiday hostess present.

Unlike many parts of the country drenched in snow, Orlando's fabulous winter weather is a perfect for outdoor daytime activities. This region is known for having some of the greatest PGA public courses in the United States. Blooming azaleas, roses and tropical plants are flourishing at Leu Gardens, one of the city's most peaceful attractions. Within minutes from downtown is the St. John's River, winter home for numerous docile water cows. These mammals are so cherished that Floridians collect and decorate with ornaments that are designed to replicate the manatees' beauty.

In late November, the downtown Thornton Park district is embellished in eclectic holiday style. This year round hot spot houses outdoor cafes, wine bars and artsy boutiques, some of which overlook Lake Eola, the permanent home for a number of black swans. These graceful birds can be seen circling the larger than life size anchored Santa any time of day. Visitors who have booked the authentic gondola ride, with full course meal, claim it to be more magical than Disney World.

In close proximity to Orlando is the perfectly manicured neo traditional Town of Celebration. Besides the spectacular galleries and superb restaurants, this community hosts a nightly outdoor Charles Dickens Christmas gala with fallen snow, carolers and Saint Nick. Not to be forgotten is the elite Winter Park Village, widely known for their designer shops, exquisite outdoor cuisine and night life. The Village is adorned with so many miniature lights that the local "see and be seen" crowd have to adjust their bling to compensate for the dazzling aura.

There is no doubt that Orlando's major amusement parks are spectacular during the holidays. The buildings and facades on New York Street at Disney's Hollywood Studio are outlined with literally millions of lights; all of which are synchronized to holiday music. At dusk, when the lights turn on, all bah humbuggers convert to gleeful Tiggers. Including a visit to Universal Studios to watch the live stage enactment of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is sure to clinch the holiday spirit in the smallest of hearts.

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