Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host a series of holiday events this December, highlighted by the new “Kennedy Under the Stars: Holiday Edition.” The after-hours event is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, December 19 and 20, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are priced at $65 per person.
The visitor complex, which was recently recognized as the top attraction in the United States in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards (https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Attractions-cTop-g191), will feature extended access to its major exhibits such as Heroes & Legends, Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex, Journey To Mars, Space Shuttle Atlantis, and Planet Play. Attractions will be decorated with holiday lights and themed décor.
The Rocket Garden will serve as a venue for a dance party called Holiday Grooves Dance Party and will include a custom drone show illuminating the night sky. Entertainment options also include performances of holiday classics by The Vocalitas, appearances by costumed characters on stilts, and a Penny Farthing-riding elf. Additional activities offered are a Rocket Tree Trail walk, scavenger hunt, and photo opportunities with the Mars Rover dressed as Rudolph.
Guests are encouraged to wear space-themed holiday attire but masks or face coverings are not permitted. Complimentary parking is included with admission. Special edition retail items related to the holidays will be available for purchase during the event; annual passholders can receive discounts on food, beverages, and merchandise.
Following these events, Holidays in Space continues from December 21–30 (closed December 25) featuring an all-new drone show titled Holidays in Space Drone Show Spectacular. This show involves a fleet of 600 drones telling the story of Starflake—a character inspired by meteor showers—traveling through NASA’s programs including Apollo, Shuttle, and Artemis before culminating in a cosmic tree display. Premium viewing tickets for select nights will soon be available at KennedySpaceCenter.com.
Other seasonal offerings include an upcoming live character show at Universe Theater and an interactive family breakfast experience during the holidays.
For those seeking meal options during their visit between December 15–19 and December 22–January 2 (excluding some dates), there is a presale-only Holiday Dining Package available for $39.99 per person in addition to regular admission fees. This package provides one meal at participating cafes—Orbit Cafe, Moonrock Cafe or Barbecue—plus snacks and a refillable souvenir cup.
Tickets for Kennedy Under the Stars: Holiday Edition became available starting November 4 via www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.
###
