By Peter Covino
Lifestyles Editor
It’s holiday time at the theme parks and the first stop this month is at SeaWorld where the park is not only all dressed up for the holidays, but there are several themed-attractions and rides as well.

The SeaWorld park looks great for the holidays with lots of lights throughout the park, with the featured highlight — the Sea of Trees in the lagoon. They have added even more trees for this year’s event.
And there are lots of other attractions at SeaWorld to get you in that holiday mood.
Polar Express Experience
It’s all aboard for the The Polar Express Experience, a regular attraction at the park that fits perfectly for Christmas.
The Polar Express Experience is based on the film and inspired by the children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg about a very skeptical young boy who takes a train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
It’s the perfect attraction for the holidays as guests ride the multi-sensory experience (this is one of those jolting rides) before arrive at the North Pole. Santa is also available for photos.
The live shows at SeaWorld are in keeping with the holiday as well. This year they include:
O Wonderous Night
SeaWorld’s version of O Wondrous Night “The Greatest Story Ever Told,” there are Christmas carols, live animals, angels and more. The 30-minute show features puppetry and dance against the backdrop of traditional Christmas music.
Winter Wonderland
on Ice
The holiday-themed ice-skating spectacular is at the Bayside Stadium and features, in addition to ice skaters, towering water fountains and fireworks.
Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to
Christmas
Families can enjoy this all-new Christmas comedy with their favorite loveable sea lions Clyde and Seamore, along with a few mischievous otters and a jolly walrus or two. Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas runs on select nights November, December and January.
A Sesame Street
Christmas
Sesame Street favorites are featured in this story about Abby Cadabby, who doesn't undertand what all the fuss is about a Christmas time. Elmo, Big Bird and other Sesame Street characters gather round to explain the true spirit of the holiday in this family show.
Shamu Christmas … Miracles
It's holiday time at the Shamu Stadium in this special show with music and Shamu.
Makahiki Christmas Luau
A special event South Seas celebration in keeping with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific islands. The Christmas Luau is held daily (except Dec. 25. Park admission is not required.
The Christmas Market
Other SeaWorld highlights include Christmas Market with lots of gifts and things to eat.
SeaWorld has several options for Florida residents in addition to the daily admission ticket. The Fun Card (pay for a day, come back all year) includes unlimited park admission through December 2012.
The annual pass option includes free parking and no blackout dates as well as discounts on shopping and dining. There is more information on SeaWorld plus how to buy tickets at http://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-orlando/.