Seasonal Events and Festivals Near Disney World
Orlando is renowned for its world-famous theme parks, but the city offers much more beyond those iconic attractions. Throughout the year, seasonal events and festivals bring vibrant culture, food, and entertainment to life for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, an art lover, or someone searching for family-friendly activities, there’s always something happening near Disney World. Orlando’s diverse offerings make it a fantastic place to visit and an even better place to call home—especially in some of the safest neighborhoods in Orlando, where convenience and community come together. For anyone wondering what to do near Disney World, this guide is your ticket to discovering Orlando’s exciting events.
Winter Events Near Disney World: Holiday Lights and Festivals
Orlando transforms into a festive wonderland during the winter months, offering a mix of holiday lights, cultural traditions, and family-friendly activities.
Cheez-It Citrus Bowl
The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl is a highly anticipated college football game held annually at Camping World Stadium. It brings together top-tier teams for an exciting matchup, drawing thousands of fans from around the country. Tailgating parties add to the lively atmosphere, making it a great event for sports enthusiasts and families alike.
Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens becomes a magical winter escape with Dazzling Nights, an immersive holiday light experience. The gardens are transformed with millions of twinkling lights, interactive displays, and festive music. Highlights include illuminated tunnels, colorful installations, and themed gardens, making it a perfect outing for both families and couples.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration
SeaWorld Orlando shines during the holidays with its Christmas Celebration. Visitors can enjoy live shows, holiday-themed treats, and festive attractions like the Sea of Trees, where dozens of lit-up trees shimmer to music on the central lagoon. Meet-and-greet opportunities with Santa and Rudolph make it a hit with kids, while live holiday performances add a touch of magic for all ages.
Now Snowing in Celebration
Located just minutes from Disney World, Celebration hosts Now Snowing, a month-long holiday event that features nightly snowfall, horse-drawn carriage rides, and train rides for kids. The town square is adorned with holiday lights and decorations, creating a charming, small-town winter atmosphere perfect for families.
Festival of the Trees at Orlando Museum of Art
The Festival of the Trees showcases stunning designer-decorated trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses in the Orlando Museum of Art. Each display is intricately crafted, offering plenty of inspiration for holiday décor. Guests can shop for seasonal items and enjoy holiday treats, making it an annual tradition for many.
Ice at Gaylord Palms Resort
The Gaylord Palms Resort’s Ice! exhibit is an awe-inspiring experience featuring massive ice sculptures carved by artisans from around the world. Visitors can walk through intricate displays, brave thrilling ice slides, and marvel at detailed creations—all while bundled up in provided parkas to withstand the chilly temperatures.
The Nutcracker by Orlando Ballet
Each winter, the Orlando Ballet performs the timeless classic The Nutcracker at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The performance features dazzling costumes, breathtaking choreography, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, making it a holiday tradition for families and art lovers.
Spring Festivals Near Disney World: Art, Food, and Outdoor Fun
Spring in Orlando is all about celebrating creativity, culture, and the great outdoors with festivals that cater to all interests.
Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival
As one of the largest and most prestigious outdoor art festivals in the country, the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival showcases the work of talented artists from around the globe. Visitors can browse hundreds of booths displaying paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more. The event also features live music, food vendors, and a family-friendly kids' zone.
Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts and Crafts
This beloved festival in the quaint town of Mount Dora draws thousands of visitors each spring. The Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts and Crafts features hundreds of exhibitors offering handmade goods, unique artwork, and creative home décor items. The festival is also known for its picturesque setting, charming shops, and delicious local food.
Florida Film Festival
The Florida Film Festival is an annual celebration of independent and international cinema held at the Enzian Theater. It features a diverse lineup of films, including shorts, documentaries, and feature-length movies. Attendees can participate in Q&A sessions with filmmakers, enjoy special screenings, and savor gourmet food and drinks at the venue.
Central Florida Fair
The Central Florida Fair is a longstanding tradition that brings together thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food. Visitors can explore agricultural exhibits, watch live competitions, and enjoy carnival games. It’s a fun and lively event for families and anyone seeking classic fairground excitement.
Silver Spurs Rodeo
Experience the thrill of rodeo at the Silver Spurs Rodeo, an annual event that showcases traditional rodeo competitions such as bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Hosted in Kissimmee, this event honors Florida’s ranching heritage and provides an exciting experience for all ages.
Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival
Running from March through May, the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival pairs gourmet dishes and craft beverages with live music performances. Guests can enjoy culinary creations from around the world while exploring the park’s thrilling rides and lush gardens.
Fiesta in the Park at Lake Eola
Held at the scenic Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando, Fiesta in the Park is an outdoor arts and crafts festival featuring hundreds of vendors, live entertainment, and food trucks. It’s a great way to enjoy spring weather while supporting local artists and businesses.
Summer Festivals Near Disney World: Food, Music, and Nightlife
Summer in Orlando offers a blend of cultural celebrations, thrilling entertainment, and opportunities to beat the heat while enjoying nighttime fun.
Viva La Música at SeaWorld Orlando
Every summer, Viva La Música brings vibrant Latin culture to SeaWorld Orlando. This festival features live performances from top Latin music artists, delicious traditional dishes like empanadas and arepas, and authentic craft vendors. The lively atmosphere, complete with salsa dancing and vibrant decorations, makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Latin culture.
SeaWorld Summer Spectacular
When the sun sets, SeaWorld Orlando comes alive with the Summer Spectacular, an evening filled with dazzling fireworks, live entertainment, and electrifying dance parties. Visitors can enjoy extended park hours, light shows synchronized to music, and a festive atmosphere perfect for all ages. The grand finale, a fireworks display over the central lagoon, is a highlight that keeps guests coming back year after year.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Summer Nights
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Summer Nights offers a thrilling mix of extended park hours, live entertainment, and nighttime roller coaster rides. Guests can enjoy spectacular light shows and DJ-hosted dance parties, creating an upbeat atmosphere. From family-friendly entertainment to adrenaline-pumping rides under the stars, this event offers something for everyone during the summer months.
MECUM Kissimmee Car Auction
The MECUM Kissimmee Car Auction is a paradise for car enthusiasts. This world-renowned event features an extensive lineup of classic cars, collector vehicles, and road art pieces. Attendees can marvel at beautifully restored cars, participate in auctions, and enjoy daily entertainment at Osceola Heritage Park. It’s an unmissable event for automobile lovers.
Welcome to Rockville
Known as one of the largest rock music festivals in the country, Welcome to Rockville draws crowds with its star-studded lineup of world-famous bands. Held in nearby Daytona Beach, this festival offers multiple stages, food vendors, and a high-energy atmosphere. Attendees can immerse themselves in the pulse-pounding rhythms of rock music while soaking up the Florida sun.
Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival
The Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival is the longest-running fringe festival in the United States and a cornerstone of Orlando’s arts scene. This multi-day event showcases performances ranging from drama and musicals to comedy and experimental theater. With shows for all ages, visual art exhibitions, and outdoor music stages, it’s an inclusive and exciting celebration of creativity.
Fall Events Near Disney World: Halloween Thrills and Cultural Festivals
Fall in Orlando is packed with spooky thrills, cultural celebrations, and unique festivals. Whether you're a fan of Halloween scares or diverse cultural showcases, these events near Disney World offer something for everyone.
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is the ultimate Halloween experience, featuring detailed haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows. Inspired by iconic horror films and original stories, this event offers spine-tingling thrills for those who love a good scare. Held on select nights from September through October, it's a must-visit for horror enthusiasts.
Ybor City Ghost Tour
The Ybor City Ghost Tour in Tampa takes you through one of Florida’s oldest neighborhoods, rich with ghostly tales and mysterious legends. This guided walking tour blends history and hauntings, perfect for those seeking a spooky but educational experience. It’s an eerie yet fascinating way to embrace the Halloween spirit.
Great Irish Hooley at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant
The Great Irish Hooley at Raglan Road Irish Pub in Disney Springs is a lively celebration of Irish culture. Enjoy live music, step dancing, and traditional Irish dishes. Held over Labor Day weekend, this festive event is great for families or those looking for a spirited way to kick off the season.
FusionFest
FusionFest, held in November in downtown Orlando, celebrates the city’s multicultural diversity. This two-day event features live music, dance performances, and global cuisine, offering an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and workshops, making it a perfect outing for families and culture enthusiasts.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
The Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) transforms Tinker Field into a vibrant celebration of electronic music and art. With world-renowned DJs, dazzling light displays, and interactive installations, this November event is a high-energy spectacle that draws music lovers from all over.
Find Your Place Near the Magic
Orlando’s seasonal festivals provide endless opportunities to explore, celebrate, and connect with the community. Living near Disney World means you’ll never miss out on these incredible events, whether you’re a fan of live music, cultural celebrations, or family-friendly fun.
If you’re considering a move to Central Florida, Davenport is an ideal location near Disney World. Its proximity allows you to enjoy these events without the hassle of long commutes.
Explore current homes for sale in Davenport and discover how living near the magic can elevate your lifestyle.
Make Orlando’s seasonal festivals and events part of your everyday life—start your journey with Florida Realty Marketplace today!
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