ICE at Gaylord Palms 2024

Gaylord Palms has all the best Christmas magic.

We’ve been visiting ICE at Gaylord Palms for years. In fact, it really kicks off the season for our family. So there’s nothing like going from swimming in the tropical oasis of the beautiful pool and waterpark to the nine degree ICE wonderland. And this year’s theme is so magical! Elf is one of our favorite Christmas movies. So seeing this beloved movie displayed in ICE is so much fun!

ICE! 2024 Theme: Elf

The theme for 2024 is centered around the heartwarming and hilarious movie Elf, which has become a modern holiday classic since its release in 2003. And this theme will bring to life iconic scenes, characters, and moments from the movie in a stunning ice sculpture display.

Key Highlights:

1. Famous Movie Moments:
   • Guests will experience life-sized ice sculptures recreating some of the movie’s most memorable scenes, such as:
     • Buddy the Elf in his iconic green costume.
     • The scene where Buddy decorates the Empire State Building-sized tree with his oversized decorations.
     • Buddy’s journey to New York City and his interactions with Santa Claus.
     • The cheerful and chaotic spirit of the movie’s iconic characters.
2. Hand-Carved Ice Sculptures:
   • As always, the ICE! exhibit will feature over two million pounds of hand-carved ice, beautifully transformed into intricate sculptures. Skilled artisans from Harbin, China, will create ice representations of the movie’s characters, setting, and key moments.
   • Expect vivid colors, intricate details, and lifelike figures that capture the whimsy and joy of the Elf movie.
3. Interactive Experiences:
   • The ICE! exhibit will likely include ice slides for kids (and adults) to enjoy, themed around Buddy’s adventures.
   • There will also be opportunities for photo ops with iconic characters, such as Buddy, Santa, and other memorable figures from the movie.
4. Chilly Environment:
   • As usual, the ICE! display is kept at a frosty 9°F (-13°C) to preserve the sculptures, so guests are provided with warm parkas for comfort while exploring the frosty wonderland.
5. Holiday Spirit:
   • The whole experience will capture the lighthearted and heartwarming spirit of Elf, inviting guests to relive the joy and holiday cheer that the movie brings to families year after year.
6. Themed Shopping & Dining:
   • Expect Elf-themed merchandise, perfect for fans of the movie to take home as keepsakes.
   • Seasonal dining options and holiday-themed treats will likely be available throughout the resort to add to the festive atmosphere.

This year’s Elf-themed ICE! is sure to be a fantastic holiday experience, bringing all the magic, humor, and warmth of the film to life through stunning ice sculptures and interactive displays. It’s the perfect way for families and Elf fans to celebrate the season!

What can you expect at Christmas at Gaylord Palms 2024?

1. ICE!

• What it is: ICE! is one of the most famous attractions at Gaylord Palms during the holiday season. And this indoor winter wonderland features over two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, all created by artisans from Harbin, China. In fact, the theme changes every year, with previous themes including A Charlie Brown Christmas, Christmas Around the World, and The Polar Express.
• Details: The venue is kept at a chilly 9°F (-13°C) to preserve the ice art. And visitors are provided with parkas to keep warm as they walk through the stunning ice displays, which often include life-size sculptures, slides, and holiday scenes.

2. Cirque Dreams Unwrapped

• What it is: A live, Broadway-style theatrical production that combines acrobatics, circus acts, and festive holiday music. And the show features performers from around the world who bring gravity-defying acts and jaw-dropping performances to the stage.
• Details: The show typically runs several times during the Christmas season at the resort’s St. Augustine Theater.

3. Snow!

• What it is: A fun, interactive event where guests can enjoy real snow falling inside the atrium of the resort. So this snowy experience is perfect for families, with snow tubing, snowball fights, and other snow-themed activities.
• Details: It’s a rare chance to enjoy snow in Florida, as the artificial snow is made to provide an authentic snow experience without the cold temperatures of the north.

4. Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Festivities

• What it is: Gaylord Palms hosts a grand tree lighting ceremony at the start of the season, featuring festive music, a light show, and appearances from holiday characters.
• Details: Throughout the holiday season, there are various light displays and festive decorations in every corner of the resort, creating a magical atmosphere.

5. Gingerbread Decorating & Holiday Craft Activities

• What it is: For guests who love to get creative, Gaylord Palms offers gingerbread house decorating workshops, as well as other holiday craft activities for all ages.
• Details: These workshops are often available by reservation, allowing families and friends to create their own holiday keepsakes.

6. Mistletoe Village & Holiday Shopping

• What it is: A charming village featuring shops with seasonal merchandise, holiday treats, and unique gifts. It’s the perfect spot to get into the Christmas spirit and pick up some last-minute gifts.
• Details: Visitors can also enjoy themed food and beverages, such as hot cocoa and holiday sweets.

7. Santa Meet-and-Greet

• What it is: A special opportunity to meet Santa Claus and capture the moment with photos. This is a popular event for families, where kids can tell Santa what they want for Christmas and take photos with him.
• Details: Santa visits several times throughout the holiday season, so families can plan their visits accordingly.

8. Holiday Dining & Special Menus

• What it is: Gaylord Palms offers a variety of festive dining experiences, including special holiday menus and themed meals. From casual to fine dining, the resort offers everything from a traditional Christmas dinner to themed brunches and desserts.
• Details: Special dining events, like a Christmas Eve dinner or a Christmas Day brunch, are often available for guests to book in advance.

9. Holiday Themed Escape Room

• What it is: Gaylord Palms also offers a holiday-themed escape room experience, where guests work together to solve puzzles and mysteries in a festive setting.
• Details: The escape rooms are perfect for families or groups looking for a fun and interactive holiday activity.

If you want to be sure to be ICE ready, pick up a Banana Republic turtleneck, coat, or that perfect holiday outfit to be ready! It’s actually VERY cold inside, so make sure you are ready for the elements.

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