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!
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
The Disney Epcot Spring Flower Festival in Orlando is in full bloom from as early as March and continues on till the beginning of July. What better way than to celebrate this spectacle with your family at Disney!
Discover spectacular topiaries of your favorite Disney characters, weave your way through the colorful flower beds, uncover exotic gardens that create lasting memories, particularly with their unforgettable fragrances, and so much more.
There are plenty of activities to keep your kids busy such as the interactive play areas and a field excursion. You and your kids will also get the opportunity to learn about the Disney Conservation Fund, focused on saving wildlife for future generations. Read further to learn more about the activities here at Epcot Orlando in May.
Topiaries, Gardens, and Displays
The best part about this festival is locating all the stunning topiaries located around the park. A Topiary is a shrub, tree, or any other type of green bush that’s clipped to resemble a recognizable shape.
Here at Epcot, the little ones will find all their favorite Disney characters from Goofy to Peter Pan in full bloom! Adults at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival will enjoy the thousands of vibrant flowers in the Global Gardens, attend seminars led by Disney horticulturists, and learn more about gardening from the Disney garden experts.
Garden Rocks Concert Series
If you fear you might not be gifted with much of a green thumb, then worry not. There is plenty to do aside from plants at this festival like grooving to live music at the Garden Rocks Concert Series.
Head over to the America Gardens Theater and catch your favorite artists bust out some dance tunes every evening of the event. Opt for the Garden Rocks Dining Package for guaranteed seats and pair the toe-tapping concert with some lip-smacking eats!
Garden Grazing
Treat yourself to some fresh festival dishes by participating in the Garden Graze activity in the outdoor kitchens and food kiosks spread all across the park! Menus are made exclusively for the festival featuring delicious dishes full of garden flavors, each offering some creativity to tingle your taste buds. Enjoy those snacks and family restaurants!
Kids can even redeem a Festival-exclusive treat by collecting five matching stamps on their Festival Passport for every marked dish you purchase from each of the five booths. It’s a food adventure that will keep the little ones engaged!
Enjoy trotting through the various country-specific food pavilions with your family, between Japan, Morocco, and Mexico – there’s a lot to explore! Check out the farmers’ market kitchens for some exquisite food made from fresh ingredients, and come prepared for the hard-to-resist baked goodies that will lure your sweet tooth and satisfy your cravings.
Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration
This crowd favorite festival-exclusive springtime scavenger hunt is perfect for gardeners of all ages and sizes.
Buy yourself a map and some stickers at select merchandise locations before following Spike the Bee on his adventurous pollination trail through the park. Once complete, head over to Disney Traders or the World Traveler kiosk with your scavenger hunt map for a fun surprise. This is hands down one of the best ways to celebrate sniffly Orlando in spring!
LEGO NINJAGO Day at LEGOLAND
Get your kid ready to “become the ninja” and reveal their ninja skills during the LEGO NINJAGO Days in May at LEGOLAND in Florida! Head down with the family and celebrate with your favorite ninja heroes at this one-of-a-kind weekend event.
Throughout the weekend, the Ninjago characters Nya, Lloyd, Zane, as well as Master Wu, will be taking photos with children at the meet-and-greet. Participate with the family in Master Wu’s Expedition, a fun scavenger hunt, testing your ninja knowledge for a special reward. Another attraction you don’t want to miss is the LEGO NINJAGO ride where you’ll get to show off your skills by fighting 3D villains in battle!
The park also has two new exciting experiences for your child to practice their warrior skills. Namely, the NINJAGO Legacy quest, a mini-AR experience, and the School of Spinjitizu, a Ninja Training academy with real-life ninjas slicing up some sharp moves.
Boost your energy throughout the day with trips to the Ninja Kitchen food truck, serving you delicious protein-filled Pork Belly Yakisoba and Samurai “S’mores” bao buns. To make your weekend extra special, stay at one of the twelve Ninjago Themed Rooms at the LEGOLAND Hotel and immerse yourself completely in the ninja experience.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival
The Seven Seas Food Festival runs every weekend between early February and early May and is one of the biggest and best food festivals in Orlando. It is an oasis for food lovers who come for all the flavors their taste buds can pack and makes for the perfect place to spend any evening with the family.
Take a stroll through the vast open-air grounds and embark on a food tasting journey that encompasses more than 50 global cuisines; Caribbean, Brazil, Italy, Asia, and beyond! When the kids are busy among themselves, treat yourself to some drinks from the incredible menu of curated cocktails, wines, and craft beers. All this paired with Rock, Country, Latin, and 90s throwback tracks at the live performance venues will surely make for a memorable night filled with dancing and merrymaking!
SeaWorld Orlando also celebrates Cinco de Mayo, The Fifth of May, with seven super fun days of dancing, indulging in Mexican-inspired tunes, and traditional food. Join in on the celebrations at the fiesta surrounded by decked-out stilt walkers and energetic performers all around the park. It doesn’t matter what day of the week it is, when it’s May in Orlando, there’s always something to look forward to at SeaWorld!
Kids’ Night at the Museum at the Orlando Science Center
Take your kids on an adventure at the Orlando Science Center night exhibit. This three-time Editors Choice winner offers two different and unique experiences each time you visit, making it one of the best events in Orlando May for kids.
The kids-only event has loads of interactive activities that promote learning and fun, like pizza-dinner tables for kids aged 5 to 12, an Interactive Live Science Show, and other experience-enhancing programs.
Let your kids explore the science world of their dreams and take the opportunity to enjoy your evening alone. With check-in at 5:30 p.m. and check-out at 9:30 p.m, this is one of the most unique events in Orlando in May. It is known for selling out quickly, so register soon and save your kids a spot.
Mayfaire by the Lake Fine Arts Festival
Polk Museum of Arts presents Mayfaire by the Lake, an event that has grown over the years to become one of Florida’s biggest and most popular outdoor festivals in Orlando. This award-winning fine arts festival has slowly but surely taken on the role of a beloved community tradition since its launch in 1971 as a small crafts fair. Presented each year on Mother’s Day weekend, the festival features over 140 artist booths on the shores of the beautiful Morton lake, a location that is popularly considered to be one of the best things about the event by regular attendees.
If you consider your family to be a creative bunch, this event is the one for you! The festival runs all day long and offers an expansive range of arts and crafts right from clay arts, paintings, jewelry, photographs, and much more. Not only do you get to take home some beautiful artwork, but all contributions go towards providing scholarships to students attending the summer program at the Southern College of Florida.
Make sure to bring along a bottle of cold water, an umbrella, and maybe a hand-held fan as the weather can get quite hot. Nonetheless, a truly wholesome art event to stop by if you are visiting Orlando in May!
SeaWorld Orlando Electric Ocean
Electric Ocean is coming back to SeaWorld Orlando this summer! Participate in the ultimate family dance running on select nights at the end of May. As the sun goes down, the entire 200-acre park is lit up and set aglow with the joy and laughter of kids and adults alike. Witness glowing sea creatures swooping overhead and enjoy your favorite theme park rides in a totally new setting with spectacular lights.
Join the floor at the Electric Current, a daytime dance party with world-class DJs dishing out some peppy tunes. Head over to the Nautilus Theater with the whole family and groove along to rock n’ roll band Elmo Rocks. Keep the party going with Club Sea Glow and dance away to some pumping beats beside Sea Glow Dancers. Marvel over some gravity-defying aerial acts and watch dancers play with fire and light it up like the Fourth of July! End the night on a bright and dazzling note with Ignite, a spectacular event full of fountains, lasers, and fireworks.
Rescue Tails is one special event that helps warm kids up to the rescue-to-rehabilitation stories. The event also provides kids with the unique opportunity of meeting and greeting some of these incredible animals too.
With so many things to see and do, make sure you make the most of this electrifying event!
Blueberry picking season
If your family enjoys getting their hands dirty in the garden, don’t miss out on this opportunity to pick blueberries from farms around Orlando. Several of them in the area even welcome guests with fun Orlando activities like family yard games, tractor rides, and kids’ play areas, in addition to blueberry picking.
The best part about visiting in May is that you also get the chance to go Sunflower picking and make the whole experience a 2-in-1 adventure! While these farms and their locations are easily discoverable on the internet, remember to check their operating times beforehand on their Facebook pages to ensure you visit when all the action is happening. Bring sunscreen, umbrellas, and closed-toed shoes as these events are known to get significantly hot and muddy.
Alphabet Plant Scavenger Hunt at the Harry P. Leu Gardens
The Alphabet Plant Scavenger Hunt at the Harry P. Leu Gardens is yet another must-visit outdoor spring event in Orlando in May that is perfect for some family fun. At this event, every letter of the alphabet corresponds to a different plant, and each letter is hidden in different spots all across the 50-acre botanical garden. The objective of the game? To find them, of course!
Dress your kids up in their favorite detective garb and explore the garden with the fun scavenger hunt map that is designed for all ages. With the scavenger hunt already included in the price of daytime garden admission, you don’t even have to worry about it burning a hole in your pocket; practically free, educational, and full of fun, it’s really the best kind of event if you ask us!
Free things to do in Orlando in May
The best part about taking a trip to Orlando in May with kids is that having a fun time doesn’t have to mean shelling out the greens if you don’t want it to! There are tons of things to do in Orlando in May for families that are low-key and affordable but just as entertaining and wholesome when experienced together.
The open-air Disney Springs dining, shopping, and entertainment district is a great place to start. With remarkable architecture, natural beauty, and free family fun there are lots to look forward to at this venue. It includes live performances and other entertaining interludes, such as kids being welcome to build as many LEGO figures as their hearts desire. Hop on the free ferry rides with the whole squad and travel to Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, all for no cost!
When it comes to events, Orlando Fringe is one you don’t want to miss! Drop by on the weekends of the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival in May to attend the free Kids Fringe festival with your family. Enjoy live performances, workshops, and other activities aimed at the young and young-at-heart. Artists also present special children’s theater performances on the Fringezilla Mainstage. Taking over the entire indoor and outdoor spaces of the Garden Club, the event aims to educate, encourage, and shape the artists of tomorrow.
If you want something more laid back, why not pack some popcorn and literally “lay back” to watch a movie outdoors with the fam? There are two options for watching free nighttime movies under the stars in Florida.
Movieola takes place in Lake Eola Park on the last Friday of the month from April through August and features family-friendly films starting at 6 p.m. Bring some blankets and snacks along with you to enjoy a movie night under the stars. This event is also pet friendly so bring your fur babies along to enjoy quality time with the whole family.
On the second Thursday of each month, the city of Winter Park partners with Maitland’s Enzian Theater to host Popcorn Flicks in the Park. 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!
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.
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!
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.
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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