Light Up SoDo Holiday Event

• location_onShopping Center
• scheduleSaturday, Dec 6 2pm-6pm

SoDo Main Street District is proud to announce the return of Light Up SoDo, now in its 11th year, taking place on Saturday, December 6 from 2 - 6 PM at Kimco’s SoDo Shopping Center, presented by Orlando Health.

Recognized as one of Orlando’s favorite neighborhood holiday traditions, this year brings an intentional experience designed to celebrate local businesses, spotlight local makers, and live artist installations, while bringing neighbors together during a season when community support matters more than ever.

A Neighborhood Tradition That Strengthens Local Business: Light Up SoDo has become a cornerstone of holiday spirit in Orlando, bringing thousands of residents and visitors together each year.

In a time when local businesses and residents are experiencing increased economic pressure, this celebration serves as a direct way to support the local shops, micro-entrepreneurs, and service providers who keep SoDo vibrant year-round. Dollars spent locally stay local—strengthening the neighborhood’s economic health, supporting jobs, and reinvesting in the community’s future.

What to Expect: This year’s event introduces new elements while keeping beloved traditions alive. Visitors can explore dozens of local artisanal makers, meet and engage with event sponsors whose generosity makes Light Up SoDo possible, enjoy delicious bites from food trucks, and experience lively entertainment, including the Bubble Bus, Santa, music, and festive installations. Pets are welcome, and all can enjoy multiple photo stations powered by volunteers ready to capture keepsake moments.

New Art Brings Storefronts to Life: Adding to the festivities, SoDo is debuting live window painting, creating holiday designs that the community can watch come to life, bringing art to storefronts. This is sponsored by Orlando Elks 1079 as a welcome new partner. Some artists will even invite guests to join in the fun of painting. This new touch adds both charm and artistry to the SoDo Shopping Center, enhancing the sense of place and seasonal magic that can be enjoyed all season long.

Live painting artists featured are: Jessica Brackett from Orlando Mural Co, Natasha Callahan, Chris and Jess Fonseca from M. Lynn Creative, SoDo muralist Tatiana Khalil, and Amanda Seckington.

Powered by Volunteers, Community, and Generosity: Light Up SoDo represents more than a single afternoon of celebration. It is the culmination of over 500 volunteer hours, more than 20 sponsors, and 75 small businesses/micro-entrepreneurs. Their efforts spent planning, decorating, and ensuring a free, festive experience for all are special. SoDo Main Street asks the community to come support the significant investment by partners who make the event possible.

“Light Up SoDo isn’t just an event—it’s when our community comes alive. From curating local artists and showcasing makers to setting up tents, bars, and experiences, every detail is designed to spark connection, creativity, and joy. This tradition is a reminder that the heart of our neighborhood shines brightest when we gather together,” states Misty Heath, SoDo Main Street Executive Director.

Attendees are invited to visit the SoDo Bar or buy a new piece of SoDo merchandise debuting this year by our partners Palmr, proceeds directly supporting the district’s mission and future public improvements.

SoDo District operates with just one full-time staff member, the SoDo Board of Directors, and more than 2,000 volunteer hours contributed this year helping keep the district thriving.