College football season does not end when the regular-season schedule wraps up. Orlando hosts several major bowl games during December and early January, giving fans another reason to plan a Central Florida trip during the holidays.
For the 2026–27 bowl season, Orlando will host the StaffDNA Cure Bowl, Pop-Tarts Bowl, and Citrus Bowl. Each game offers a different postseason experience, with matchups announced later in the season. Staying at Vista Cay Orlando can also give traveling fans a comfortable home base for enjoying the games and other Orlando attractions.
StaffDNA Cure Bowl — December 22, 2026
The StaffDNA Cure Bowl kicks off at 5:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 22, at Acrisure Bounce House, the home stadium of the UCF Knights. The game will also air on ESPN.
The Cure Bowl has been played in Orlando since its first game in 2015 and combines college football with a larger mission. The event raises awareness and funding for cancer research, with millions of dollars raised since the bowl began.
Teams for the 2026 game will be announced later in the season, with team selection scheduled for December 6. Fans planning a trip before the matchup is announced can consider our vacation condos in Orlando for the space and conveniences that make a multi-day football trip easier.
Pop-Tarts Bowl — December 29, 2026
The Pop-Tarts Bowl returns to Camping World Stadium on Tuesday, December 29, with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. The 2026 matchup is expected to feature an ACC team, including the possibility of Notre Dame, against a Big 12 team based on conference selection procedures.
This bowl has developed a reputation for adding plenty of fun to postseason football. The edible mascot tradition and unusual trophy ceremony have become major parts of the experience.
Fans can also attend Pop-Tarts Bowl FanFest at Tinker Field before kickoff. The free event is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. and features entertainment, games, inflatables, face painting, and food and drinks available for purchase.
Citrus Bowl — January 2, 2027
Orlando’s bowl season continues into the new year with the Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET on Saturday, January 2, 2027.
The Citrus Bowl is one of the country’s longest-running college bowl games, dating back to 1947 when it was known as the Tangerine Bowl. The current selection process brings together top Big Ten and SEC teams from outside the College Football Playoff series.
Fans can start game day early at the Citrus Bowl FanFest at Tinker Field. The free pregame event begins at 8:00 a.m. and includes interactive games, inflatables, face painting, and other activities.
What Should You Know Before Attending an Orlando Bowl Game?
A little preparation can make game day much easier. Check the official bowl and stadium websites shortly before your trip, as parking plans, entry policies, kickoff information, and other details can change.
For games at Camping World Stadium, parking near the venue can be limited. Florida Citrus Sports encourages fans without prepaid stadium parking to use downtown parking and the free game-day shuttle. Fans should also review the stadium’s clear bag policy before leaving for the game.
December and early January are busy travel periods in Orlando, so booking accommodations early is a smart choice. Our resort rentals in Orlando provide an alternative to a traditional hotel, especially for families and groups who want more room during a holiday football trip.
Book Direct & Save
To make the most of your college football trip to Orlando, schedule your travel itinerary and stadium transportation ahead of time. Booking a spacious vacation rental early ensures your group has a comfortable home base close to the game-day action.
Final Thoughts
Orlando gives college football fans three opportunities to experience postseason action during the 2026–27 bowl season. The StaffDNA Cure Bowl starts the lineup on December 22, followed by the Pop-Tarts Bowl on December 29 and the Citrus Bowl on January 2.
With games spread across the holiday season, fans can build a longer Orlando getaway around their favorite bowl. Reserve your vacation rental early so you have a comfortable place to return to after the final whistle.
Book Your Orlando Vacation Rental with Orlando Resorts Rental
Make Orlando Resorts Rental part of your college football getaway. Our apartments at Vista Cay Resort provide the space and conveniences families, groups, and business travelers appreciate, along with personalized service from our family-owned team. Browse our Orlando vacation rentals and find the right apartment for your 2026–27 bowl game trip.
