Soak in the last bits of summer sun and enjoy the seasonal showers in Orlando, Florida this August while immersing yourself in culinary experiences, nighttime dancing, festivals, expos, and more. There is no shortage of things to do in Orlando in August when with the family! With school out and everybody in the holiday spirit, Orlando in summer is the best time and place for spending quality time with your loved ones.
The crowds in Orlando in August go both ways. The beginning of the month sees a lot of tourists which thin down towards the end of the month. Orlando, Florida in August is also a hot and humid time with average temperatures of around 90℉ so it’s advisable to plan breaks in the middle of the day and try to find some indoor places with air conditioning to cool down. At the same time, this time of year is also prone to midday showers, but don’t fret, because these won’t put a damper on your plans. Just be sure to keep umbrellas and raincoats on you when visiting Orlando in August.
EPCOT food & wine festival
Immerse yourself in culture, music, food, and wine at Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival this August. Showcasing over 25 marketplaces from places all over the world including Africa, Greece, Italy, India, France, and several others, this festival is the perfect opportunity to expose your kids to the wonderful world of food. The festival starts in July and carries on all the way into November, a 129-day mega event and every foodie’s dream.
While it may sound like a grown-ups-only festival at first, don’t be fooled! There are obviously plenty of exciting things to do at the Disney festival with kids. The best part about this festival is the versatility it offers. There’s food and fun for the young, the old, small budgets, and big. This festival is your oyster!
Take part in the savory scavenger hunt, Remy’s Ratatouille Hide and Squeak, with the kids organized by the park, where you look for little statuettes of Remy and find a surprise at the end when you find them all. Participate in Emile’s Fromage Montage which is basically a cheese crawl where you go to different booths sampling different cheeses that are served in innovative ways. The objective is to collect all five stickers to win a specialty prize at the end!
Get your feet tapping at the Eat to the Beat concert that takes place in the America Gardens Theatre. It showcases some great talent from a long list of musicians and bands and you can find the entire lineup on the official website.
The sheer amount of food and number of stalls can be overwhelming which is why planning is imperative. Take a look at the menus and decide what you want to try, when, and how many days you want to spend at the festival. Some popular food stalls are The Swanky Sauce Swine, Appleseed Orchard, Earth Eats, and Hops & Barley.
Apart from the festival, there are still the usual Epcot exhibits, rides, and attractions and Kidcot cards to collect. On the whole, this food and wine festival will be a great addition to your trip with something for you and the kids!
Electric Ocean at SeaWorld
SeaWorld’s Electric Ocean is back in action this summer, and along with it the chance to dance under dazzling light displays and fireworks! The 200-acre park comes alive as the sun goes down and everything lights up. You will get to tap away to catchy tunes played by the DJ, learn new moves from professional dancers, and watch the acrobats showcase their skills at the nighttime dance party – Club Sea Glow.
Electric Oceans runs from May to September on select nights, mostly weekends during August, and has many events for both children and the children at heart. So get your groove on at Seaport Theatre, the daytime dance party with professional dancers who’ll teach you how to groove. It’s a fun time for people of all ages!
The park also offers its guests the opportunity to learn about its rescue-to-rehabilitation program where it showcases its rescue animals like birds, primates, and reptiles. This educational and enjoyable event is especially popular among kids because of the audience interaction rounds where the kids get to meet some of the animals up close and personal.
Be sure to check out Elmo Rocks, a musical event where Elmo and his friends form their own band when their favorites cancel. The show includes them having fun auditions and rehearsals, and ends in them putting on a brilliant show. Kids love being a part of the audience interaction part of the event too.
At 10 p.m. is when the real magic begins. Catch Ignite, the park’s fireworks show, come to life with dazzling fireworks, fountains, lasers, gravity-defying aerial acts, and dancers playing with fire, and end your night on a thrilling note!
Spend a long, electrifying day at SeaWorld’s Electric Ocean and end your summer with a bang. It’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable day!
Busch Gardens Summer Nights
Busch Gardens hosts special Summer Nights with displays of light, show, and pomp. Enjoy a day of thrilling rides followed by a dance party and enjoy the last bit of summer while it lasts. Open-air block parties during the day are just a warm-up for the main event at night when the festival pathways light up and the fun really begins.
Watch graceful ice skaters glide on ice as they celebrate their art at Turn It Up!, an award-winning ice skating show at the Moroccan Palace Theatre. Don’t forget to also catch Cirque Electric, an acrobatic show performed by experienced acrobats performing daring displays of balance and strength.
Beginning at 8:30 p.m., you will get to witness a blast of fireworks with dynamic pyrotechnics, dazzling lasers, flowing water elements, and visual effects that will undoubtedly prove to be the highlight of your day.
Be sure to pace your day well as it can get tiring and you don’t want to miss the best parts of the festival!
Get into the Halloween spirit with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party- It’s BACK!
Bring Halloween into your family’s lives early this year by taking them to witness the themed decorations at Magic Kingdom and give your child an unforgettable experience. This event is perfect for families as it offers the best of both worlds: terror (kid friendly) and delight!
Taking place on Aug. through October this special event haunts Magic Kingdom Park after normal park operating hours from 7 p.m. to midnight.
Attractions include all of the below! Disney state”:
- The Headless Horseman will ride his ghostly steed down Main Street, U.S.A. as a prelude to “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,” which features floats filled with Disney Characters dressed in their Halloween best, Disney villains and the Haunted Mansion graveyard diggers.
- What’s Halloween without candy? During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, guests can go trick-or-treating for M&M’S, SKITTLES, SNICKERS, and other Halloween favorites at locations throughout Magic Kingdom Park. And new this year, guests will also receive a reusable trick-or-treat bag featuring a keepsake 50th Anniversary celebration and Halloween design.
- Join the Sanderson Sisters during the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show at Cinderella Castle as they call upon their frightening colleagues to conjure the ultimate “Hocus Pocus” Party Potion.
- Celebrate the season alongside favorite Disney characters as they take over the park for their favorite party of the year.
- Overlays themed for the occasion will return to several popular Magic Kingdom attractions: Space Mountain, Mad Tea Party, Pirates of the Caribbean and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.
- The Pumpkin King himself, Jack Skellington, will host “Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular.” This can’t-miss nighttime extravaganza features projections, special effects and lighting mixed with fireworks, music and Disney characters.
- Discover sweet and savory menu items inspired by fall flavors and the Halloween season.
- NEW! In honor of the 50th Anniversary celebration, Disney are adding even more fun to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this year in the form of event-exclusive step-in photo opportunities. And in addition to the reusable trick-or-treating tote bag, guests will also receive a Halloween-themed 50thAnniversary celebration commemorative print. “
The best part about this event is dressing up with your family in “eerie-sistible” costumes while getting to meet and greet Disney characters like Goofy, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and Pooh. Kids also get to go trick-or-treating in their adorable costumes at many sites around Magic Kingdom.
Make sure you check the dress code before you go. eg the normal Disney dress code rules don’t apply in terms of anyone over 14 and adults can dress up for the MNSSHP but outfits must not touch the ground, accessories cannot resemble a weapon and masks can’t be worn. See the full rules here.
Halloween is one of the best times to visit Disney World and is most certainly something worth paying for, in our opinion – even in August! Guests can enter from 4pm making the most of the night!
Magical Dining
Wrap up the month by participating in Central Florida’s most awaited culinary event – Magical Dining, hosted by Visit Orlando. The event goes on for 5 weeks, beginning in the last week of August. It involves restaurants from all over the region serving three-course prix-fixe dinners for a fraction of the usual cost.
What makes it even better is that for every magical dining meal that is served, $1 is donated to well-deserving charities by Visit Orlando and well over 15 charities have benefitted from this event. Does it get better than being able to dine in some of the top restaurants in Orlando and helping a great cause? Actually, yes. The restaurants serve vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, and some restaurants also accommodate take-out and delivery services. It’s one of the best opportunities for your family to experience dining at its best in restaurants all over Central Florida.
Visit the website for the complete list of restaurants that are taking part in the event, browse their menus, and pick a place the whole family will love. Popular restaurants at Disney Springs, Universal Studios, and several other well-known locations take part in the event. Keep in mind that you may have to call the restaurant and request the Magical Dining menu if you can find it online and make reservations well ahead of time.
Orlando Boat Show
Whether you’re a budding sailor or a seasoned one, the Orlando Boat Show is the perfect place to learn some new information and have a fun day with the family. The three-day annual show takes place in the second week of August at the Orange County Convention Centre and features over 500 boats from over 20 boat dealers. Fishing seminars, boating and sailing tips, and special events for kids are some fun things to look forward to.
Entry is free for kids below 12. Plus, there’s a special exhibit for kids in this age group where they get to catch a live trout. The catch and release activity is a lot of fun and a safe way to get introduced to the sport. The expo also offers face painting for little ones and a virtual saltwater fishing simulator for older kids and adults where participants compete to see who can catch a bull dolphin.
Afterward, let Twiggy the squirrel and Roxie the lifeguard dog teach you and the kids how to water ski in their show, the Water-Skiing Squirrel and Roxie show. Then, head to the fishing zone which is a popular booth that is loaded with state-of-the-art fresh and saltwater fishing gear and equipment. Get a caricature of the kids driving a boat while at it for some sweet and funny memories that you will cherish for years to come. Affordable and fun, this event can be a new and fun experience.
Florida Kids and Family Expo
Florida Kids and Family Expo is Central Florida’s ultimate playdate and the only one of its kind. Held at the Orange County Convention Center around the third week of August, the event promises a full day of fun for the whole family. It’s one of those things to do in Orlando in August that you don’t want to miss.
Kids will enjoy the 10 Fun Zones for playing, stalls that feature Touch-a-Trucks where they can climb inside their favorite vehicles and explore, the wrestling ring, live performances showcasing local talent, and sports zones where budding sports stars can find information and opportunities.
Get prepared for a long day of fun that’s filled with visits to the petting zoo, pony rides, getting your faces painted, meeting Star Wars characters, and so much more. Tickets are $8 if you book in advance and children below 3 get free entry. Take the whole family for a day of unlimited fun at a very affordable price.
Jurassic Jungle
The largest touring dinosaur show in the States is here in Florida during the last week of August. Take your budding paleontologists to enjoy an immersive experience meeting some of the most realistic dinos you will ever see in live action. Accompanied by special visual effects, professional puppeteers, and an interesting story, the show is an experience to remember.
The fifty-five-minute prehistoric production is a thrilling adventure that narrates an engaging story with dinosaurs, a team of conservationists, and an Evil Professor with a nefarious plan. To make it even better, there are audience-inclusive activities that will keep you engaged throughout the show. As enjoyable as the show is, it is also educational and the family is sure to take away something special from it.
Keep in mind that this show is loud, has low lighting, and significantly sized dinosaurs so if you have little ones that get scared easily, you should probably consider seats towards the back. Also, check out their videos and photos and decide if this is something that is going to be a good addition to your trip. Try booking tickets in advance as they are known to be more expensive when you buy them at the door.
Free things to do in Orlando in August
Summer activities in Florida don’t always have to be extravagant and expensive. Here are some lowkey free events in Orlando August that you can make a part of your trip.
Taking a stroll down the Promenade under the shimmering lights at Sunset Walk is always a good place to start. You can catch the car and truck show that takes place on the second Sunday of the month where classic truck and car collectors proudly present their collections. Bob your head to some live music while perusing the stores and marketplaces along the way.
Catching an outdoor movie on the second Thursday of each month at the Winter Park’s Popcorn Flicks is another family favorite. Held in the charming community’s Central Park, the movies are suitable for all ages and begin at sunset. Bring some snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and blankets along with you. It is important to note that movie nights are subject to cancellation or rescheduling, so always check with their websites before driving out!
No worries if you miss movie night at Winter Park because Lake Eola offers something just as special as well. Movieola’s last screening of the season begins as the sun goes down at 6 p.m. and calls for a picnic basket, some comfy blankets, and a cozy snuggle with the family. What’s the one thing that makes enjoying a movie under the glittering stars even better? The chance to bring your furry babies along, because this event is totally pet-friendly!
Things to do In Orlando with Kids Month by Month Guide
Orlando Florida in January has warm sunny days paired with pleasant, chilly evenings which makes the city the perfect place to kick start the year with a family vacation! Whether you have a toddler or a teenager, our list of things to do in Orlando in January will have something in store for you. It includes everything from epic theme parks and water worlds to hidden treasure quests and festivals to celebrate!
January’s off-season charm hits the sweet spot of ultimate deals if you like lesser crowds, cheap flight tickets, and lower accommodation rates in Orlando. However, you should still expect to see a steady stream of visitors like yourself during the Epcot Annual Festival of the Arts and on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity day. Read on to find out more about the events in Orlando in January!
Orlando might be the next thing to put on your bucket list. The pleasant weather during the start of springtime causes Orlando Florida in February to serve as a respite for northerners fleeing from the cold and a fun getaway from the scalding heat of the warmer states. It's really the slim chance of rain, however, that seals the deal and makes attending events, fests, and outdoor activities in Orlando during February practical and enjoyable!
There are so many things to do in Orlando in March. And with weather that is pleasantly warm during the day, cooler in the evening, and accompanied by just a few bouts of rain, it's the perfect time to go exploring with the family! Between floral exhibits, art shows, and other unique festivals, you will have no shortage of things to do while there.
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy some fresh air, sunshine, and a few showers before the heat of the Floridian summer kicks in. In fact, April is almost always your last chance in a year to enjoy Orlando in spring. And the flowers, blooms, and butterflies only make it better!
In addition to pleasant weather, the Spring Holiday Season and Easter Weekend also offer a plethora of things to do in Orlando in April. While it's certain that crowds will be high throughout this month, don't let that stop you, as the events we go over below are pure madness - in all the best ways possible! It doesn't matter whether you want to stay on budget or splurge this season, Orlando will have you covered.
Orlando, Florida in May offers the best of both worlds: a colorful and cheery spring during the first half of the month followed by the beaming summer sun in the second half. An exciting vacation destination for families with members both big and small, young and old, it's no wonder why then, that Orlando is the perfect place to visit in May.
In our list below, you will find some of the best events and things to do in Orlando in May to make the most of the season transition. Between food festivals, art shows, scavenger hunts, and the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot, you will see that May truly has it all!
It's time for Florida in June! There are many ways to enjoy the sun, fun, and the culture of this state.
With the blazing hot sun overhead and humid climate, visiting Orlando in June will really help you see firsthand why it’s called the Sunshine State, as well as all the reasons that make Orlando so fun! Enjoy a wide range of activities with your family at the Flower and Garden Festival at Disney’s Epcot Theme Park, or celebrate Father’s Day in style by giving dad the holiday he deserves.
Summer is just around the corner! This means that the kids are out of school and families like your own are gearing up to vacation in Orlando, Florida.
There are many reasons why Orlando, Florida in July is a popular holiday destination. This city really does have it all, from Disney World and beaches to wildlife! There are destinations and events to enjoy for kids of all ages, families of all kinds, and budgets of every range.
Apart from the regular attractions, the city offers a plethora of summer Orlando activities and events as well; some of them especially noteworthy for being on Independence Day. It is enough to make even the heat and unpredictable showers of July worth it, in our opinion. Pack sunscreen, light raincoats, some umbrellas, and keep reading to find out the best things to do in Orlando in July with your family!
It's easy to see why family holidays in Orlando are so memorable. This Florida metropolis has it all: white beaches, theme parks, gastronomic wonders, and fascinating history. There are plenty of activities to do in Orlando, Florida for any kind of family.
The intense summer heat and humidity begin to cool down with a few bouts of rain in September, making it a very pleasant month to visit Orlando. With most kids being back to school, expect the crowds to remain minimal throughout the month. Homeschoolers- this is your opportunity to experience the city in a unique and secluded way. So what’s stopping you? Pack your bags and head to Orlando to have a wonderful off-season family vacation.
Before you go, read on to learn how to travel like a pro and discover the top things to do in Orlando in September. From blood-curdling Halloween theme park events to magical fairy door exhibits and food festivals, this city has got something for everyone: parents, preschoolers, and teenagers!
A vacation/holiday in Orlando is unforgettable for so many reasons. City Beautiful has everything you could ask for, from white beaches, theme parks, gastronomic wonders, and fascinating history. There are plenty of things to do in Orlando in October for any kind of family.
Orlando in Autumn /Fall brings a welcome change of weather compared to the intense heat of Florida summers and the days begin to experience sudden (and short) bursts of heavy rainfall. With schools being in session again, most of Orlando's major attractions see a significant drop in crowds too.
That is, apart from the last week of October, when the city becomes overrun by parents taking their kids trick-or-treating and visiting the Halloween events around town. It's true, there's no escaping the horror- and fun-filled holiday when visiting Orlando in October, and that's a great thing! Because nobody does Halloween better than Orlando.
Indulge in festive treats, stroll under glittering lights, find magnificent displays of heavily decked Christmas trees, and make memories you will hold dear for the rest of your life. There are a variety of things to do in Orlando in November for the whole family, no matter your age and no matter the budget!
One great perk to visiting Orlando in Autumn is the weather which is close to perfection. With the highest temperatures being 77℉ and low humidity, November is a very comfortable month to plan a vacation. Chances of rain or showers are unlikely but the nights can get chilly so be sure to take a sweater with you. Another great thing about Orlando in November is the low crowd except for thanksgiving week.
There are lots of high-scale events in Orlando in November by major theme parks and resorts in the city which ensure you have a great vacation to close off your year.
Planning a family vacation this holiday season? Why not visit the most magical of places during the most magical time of year! City Beautiful has everything you could ask for. Nature, theme parks, culinary wonders, and mesmerizing holiday celebrations. There are plenty of things to do in Orlando around Christmas time and in December, no matter your age.
While most other places around the country are freezing cold in December, sub-tropical Orlando prides itself on its sunny days and chilly evenings. We recommend carrying a light to medium jacket, socks, and rain protection in your travel bag along with your lightweight summer dresses.
Although it is undeniable that Orlando, Florida in December is both one of the most crowded and costliest periods to visit the traditional theme park festivals, it is also the most beautiful- with stellar weather and seasonal spirits, it’s an experience of a lifetime that you should definitely check off your bucket list.
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