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Your guide to Christmas at Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center becomes a cosmic holiday destination each December, featuring the Holidays in Space event, immersive light shows, and astronaut encounters. Most Christmas experiences are included with general admission, though some special activities may require separate tickets.

What to expect at Kennedy Space Center during Christmas

Kennedy Space Center with Christmas decorations, featuring a festive rocket display.

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex transforms into a festive launchpad for the holidays, blending space exploration with Christmas magic.

  • Holidays in space: Enjoy a spectacular nighttime projection mapping show on the Rocket Garden, featuring space-themed holiday stories, music, and vibrant lights.
  • Festive light displays: Walk through illuminated pathways, with thousands of lights and space-inspired decorations throughout the complex.
  • Astronaut encounters: Meet real NASA astronauts during special holiday sessions, with opportunities for Q&A and photos.
  • Holiday-themed dining: Savor seasonal treats and Christmas meals at onsite cafés, with special menus available during the event period.
  • Family activities: Kids can participate in hands-on science experiments, ornament-making, and interactive exhibits with a festive twist.
  • Photo ops: Snap pictures with giant holiday decorations, including a towering Christmas tree and space-themed backdrops.
  • Seasonal shopping: The Space Shop offers exclusive holiday merchandise, ornaments, and NASA gifts perfect for Christmas.
Holidays in space returns

Celebrate the season with Kennedy Space Center’s Holidays in Space, featuring a brand-new projection mapping show, festive lights, and astronaut appearances—all included with admission.

Kennedy Space Center Christmas events

Family observing Atlantis Shuttle at Kennedy Space Center.

Holidays in Space: Nighttime projection show

  • Dates: December 15, 2025– December 30, 2026
  • Timings: 6:30pm–8:30pm (show runs multiple times nightly)
  • Location: Rocket Garden
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Celebrate the season with a dazzling projection mapping show that brings rockets and space history to life with holiday stories, music, and vibrant visuals.
Visitors enjoying illuminated robot performers at Kennedy Space Center during Kennedy Under The Stars event.

Festive light trail

  • Dates: December 15, 2025 – December 30, 2025
  • Timings: 9am–8:30pm
  • Location: Throughout Visitor Complex
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Wander through illuminated walkways, glowing rocket displays, and a giant Christmas tree for the perfect holiday photo.
Group tour at Kennedy Space Center viewing Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit.

Astronaut meet-and-greet: Holiday edition

  • Dates: December 16, 2025 – December 29, 2025 (select dates)
  • Timings: 11am–3pm (sessions vary)
  • Location: Astronaut Encounter Theater
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Meet a real NASA astronaut, hear holiday stories from space, and get your photo taken in a festive setting.
Children assembling a model spacecraft in a workshop.

Holiday ornament workshop

  • Dates: December 15, 2025 – December 24, 2025
  • Timings: 10am–4pm
  • Location: Atlantis Pavilion
  • Included with admission: Yes
  • Age restrictions: Children up to the age of 12 years
  • Kids can craft their own space-themed Christmas ornaments to take home as a souvenir.
Couple dining at Kennedy Space Center café with space-themed decor.

Seasonal dining specials

  • Dates: December 15, 2025 – December 30, 2025
  • Timings: 11am–5pm
  • Location: Orbit Café, Moon Rock Café
  • Included with admission: No (meals purchased separately)
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Enjoy festive menus, including holiday classics and space-inspired treats, available at select dining venues.
Christmas tree with colorful red balls, star ornaments, and astronaut decorations.

Holiday space shop specials

  • Dates: December 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025
  • Timings: 9am–7pm
  • Location: Space Shop
  • Included with admission: Yes (shopping at additional cost)
  • Age restrictions: Suitable for all ages
  • Shop for exclusive Christmas ornaments, NASA holiday apparel, and gifts for space fans of all ages.

Visitor information

Visitors in front of the The Deep Space Launch Complex
  • Visitor complex hours: 9am–7pm (last entry at 6pm)
  • Christmas dates: December 15, 2025 – December 30, 2025
  • Holidays in Space show: 6:30pm–8:30pm (multiple showings nightly)
  • Astronaut encounter: 11am–3pm (select dates)
  • Best time to visit: Arrive early to explore exhibits, then stay for the evening light shows and projection mapping. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
See all timings
Yellow taxi sign on a car roof in Reykjavik, Iceland.
  • Address: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
  • By car: Located off FL-405, just east of Titusville; follow signs for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex from I-95 (Exit 212 or 215).
  • By shuttle: Several Orlando-area hotels offer pre-booked shuttle service (check with your hotel or tour provider).
  • By taxi/rideshare: Uber and Lyft are available from Orlando and Cocoa Beach.
  • Parking: Onsite parking is available for $10 per car, $15 for RVs; accessible parking near the entrance.
Get directions
Restroom signs at Reichstag Berlin indicating male, female, and accessible facilities.
  • Restrooms: Available throughout the Visitor Complex, including near main entrances, cafés, and exhibit halls.
  • Lockers: Rental lockers are available near the entrance for $5 per day; large luggage not permitted inside.
  • Stroller/wheelchair rental: Available at the entrance; strollers ($10), wheelchairs ($10), and ECVs ($25) per day.
  • Wi-fi: Free Wi-Fi throughout the complex; connect to “KSCVCGuest.”
  • Gift shop: The Space Shop offers NASA apparel, toys, books, and exclusive holiday merchandise.
  • Water fountains: Located near restrooms and major exhibit areas.
  • Dining options: Multiple cafés and snack stands throughout the complex, with seasonal menus during Christmas.
More about the space center facilities
Wheelchair in a museum setting highlighting accessibility features.
  • Wheelchair access: All major areas, exhibits, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible; ramps and elevators available.
  • Step-free routes: Maps with accessible routes are available at Guest Services.
  • Wheelchair/ECV rental: Available at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Accessible restrooms: Located throughout the complex, including family restrooms.
  • Service animals: Permitted throughout the Visitor Complex.
  • Hearing loops: Available in select theaters; ask at Guest Services.
  • Sensory support: Quiet spaces available on request; check with staff for assistance.
Plan your visit
Customer paying with credit card at cafe cashier.
  • Event guidelines: Follow staff instructions during light shows and crowd control periods.
  • Photography: Non-commercial photography is welcome; flash and tripods are not permitted inside theaters or during projection shows.
  • Food and drink: Outside food and drink are not allowed, except for special dietary needs or baby food.
  • Costumes: Festive attire is encouraged, but full-face masks and costume weapons are not permitted.
  • Children: Children up to the age of 12 years must be supervised at all times, especially during workshops and evening events.
  • Payments: All major credit cards and cash accepted; some vendors may be cashless.
See rules and regulations
Hot chocolate with whipped cream in glass mugs, Christmas lights in background.
  • Orbit Café: Classic American fare, burgers, salads, and festive holiday specials. Located near the Rocket Garden. (~$10–$18 per meal)
  • Moon Rock Café: Pizza, sandwiches, and seasonal desserts, with space-themed décor. Located in the Atlantis Pavilion. (~$8–$15)
  • Milky Way Ice Cream Shop: Holiday-themed ice cream treats and milkshakes. Near the Space Shop. (~$5–$10)
  • Seasonal pop-ups: Look for Christmas cookies, hot chocolate, and themed snacks at stands throughout the complex during Holidays in Space.
See restaurants

Frequently asked questions about Kennedy Space Center Christmas events

Can I book tickets just for the Christmas events without a general admission ticket?

No, most Christmas events—including Holidays in Space—are included with general admission. Some special activities, like astronaut photo ops or holiday dining, may require separate tickets.

Is there a capacity limit for the events?

Yes, certain events like the projection show and astronaut meet-and-greets have limited capacity. Arrive early or reserve your spot in advance where possible.

Are the Christmas events suitable for children?

Absolutely. The light displays, workshops, and astronaut encounters are designed for families and children of all ages, with special activities for younger visitors.

Will the events continue in poor weather?

Most events are held rain or shine, but outdoor light shows may be delayed or canceled in severe weather. Check the official website or onsite notices for updates.

What happens if an event is canceled and I’ve already booked my ticket?

If a separately ticketed event is canceled, you’ll be notified and offered a refund or the option to reschedule. General admission tickets are non-refundable but may be valid for another date.

Is the Holidays in Space projection show accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, accessible viewing areas are available for wheelchair users and guests with mobility needs. Staff can assist with directions upon arrival.

Can I bring my own food or drinks to the event?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted, except for baby food or special dietary needs. There are plenty of dining options inside the complex.

Are there special Christmas souvenirs available?

Yes, the Space Shop features exclusive holiday merchandise, including ornaments, apparel, and gifts only available during the Christmas season.