‘Elf’ Theme to Highlight Beloved Tradition at Gaylord Palms this Year
One of the most memorable scenes in "Elf" is set to come to life at the Gaylord Palms Resort starting in November, offering fans a North Pole-like adventure.
For the first time, “Elf” will be the theme for the celebrated “ICE!” event at Gaylord Palms Resort. This 20,000-square-foot arctic attraction will feature giant sculptures and scenes hand-carved from 2 million pounds of ice.
The beloved holiday film stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, an oversized elf who saves Christmas while trying to bond with his biological father. This year, guests will journey through more than a dozen scenes in a frozen wonderland kept at a constant 9 degrees, experiencing Buddy’s travels from the North Pole to New York City. Along the way, they'll encounter favorite characters like Papa Elf, Mr. Narwhal, Jovie, Walter Hobbs, and Santa Claus.
Visitors can also enjoy live carving demonstrations in the Carver’s Showcase, with the journey culminating at a stunning ice Nativity scene.
“ICE!” debuted at Gaylord Palms in 2003, the same year “Elf” premiered in theaters. Although “ICE!” took a hiatus in 2021 due to the pandemic, Elf-themed activities were featured during the holiday season.
Tickets start at $29.99 for adults and $17.99 for children. Guests staying at Gaylord Palms during the holidays receive special perks, including front-of-line access, early entry, and the ability to book exclusive dining experiences.
Holiday Fun Lineup at Gaylord Palms
Yule Be Amazed: “Cirque: Spirit of Christmas” showcases high-flying stunts, acrobatics, and an original musical score. The story follows Noel, a child rediscovering holiday cheer with the help of acrobats and aerial performers.
Storytelling Celebration, Set to Song: “The Greatest Story” retells the birth of Jesus Christ through the eyes of six storytellers in a musical stage show celebrating faith and everlasting love.
Dreaming of a Bright Christmas: The “Here We Glow A-Caroling Light Show” features animated light curtains and a 60-foot-tall Christmas tree, all synchronized to classic Christmas carols.
St. Nick Takes ‘Santa’ Stage: Guests can chat with Santa Claus in Alpine Village from Nov. 15 through Dec. 24.
A Round of Applause for Mrs. Claus: Mrs. Claus entertains with a sing-along and storytelling session of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” sharing milk and cookies with guests.
Mistletoe Melody Makers: Enjoy the sounds of the season with the Dickens Carolers, who will perform Christmas classics throughout the celebration.
Wintertime Animal Wonders: Get up close to Florida’s wildlife and learn how they adapt to colder temperatures in Wintertime Animal Encounters.
Snow Much Fun: Experience the Snow Factory with unlimited ice tubing rides and snowball building at Snow Flow Mountain.
A Holiday Escape: Test your wits in the Naughty or Nice Escape Room, solving puzzles to remove your name from Santa’s Naughty List.
Dough-licious Decorating: Create gingerbread masterpieces in the Gingerbread Decorating Corner and meet Nutmeg the Gingerbread Cookie.
Have Your Elf a Merry Little Christmas: Get crafty at the Elf Training Academy, where guests make a special keepsake gift.
A Very Beary Christmas!: Personalize furry friends at Build-A-Bear and take part in the unique Heart Ceremony.
Seasonal Scavenger Hunt Fun: Embark on the TwElf Days of Christmas Scavenger Hunt, solving puzzles hidden throughout the atrium.
Ready, Set, Glow!: Marvel at more than 3 million holiday lights and over 100 decorated Christmas trees, including the 60-foot-tall tree in the main atrium.
Rooms with a Yuletide View: Book a room with an upgraded atrium view to immerse yourself in festive surroundings and enjoy prime balcony viewing for atrium shows.
Holiday Dining and Shopping
Overnight guests at Gaylord Palms can enjoy exclusive holiday dining experiences:
Breakfast with Charlie Brown and Friends: A holiday-themed character dining experience featuring Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Snoopy.
Thanksgiving Dinner: A bountiful buffet at Villa de Flora on Thanksgiving Day, featuring traditional favorites and dishes inspired by Spain, France, and Italy.
One-Stop Christmas Shop: Explore Market Square in Alpine Village for holiday gifts, collectibles, toys, home décor, and more.
Christmas Dinner: Enjoy a festive feast at Villa de Flora on Dec. 25, featuring chef stations and holiday traditions.
New Year’s Eve Buffet: Ring in the New Year with a lavish buffet at Villa de Flora on Dec. 31.
Holiday festivities begin on Nov. 14 and will run through Jan. 4.
