Orlandos Fall Special Events & Festivals
ORLANDO, Fla. From film festivals and annual foodie events to frightening Halloween bashes and enchanting holiday celebrations, Orlando offers visitors a festive array of fall and winter events.
The following list highlights some of the best annual events Central Florida has to offer during the remainder of 2010*. More information is available on Orlandos online calendar at VisitOrlando.com (http://www.visitorlando.com) . For special deals during the fall, check out VisitOrlando.com/fall (http://www.visitorlando.com/fall) .
SEPTEMBER
Orlando Magical Dining Month
Sept. 1 – 30
Thrill-seeking travelers from around the globe know Orlando for its world-class attractions and sunny resorts, but local foodies experience a different kind of thrill when they indulge their senses at Orlandos extensive dining facilities. This September, visitors can taste the good life during Orlando Magical Dining Month, a rare opportunity to indulge in some of the areas fine dining restaurants. The more than 50 participating restaurants will offer $30 three-course prix fixe dinner menus, with $1 from each meal being donated to the Arts & Cultural Alliance. orlandomagicaldining.com (http://www.orlandomagicaldining.com) 407-363-5872 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-5872 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Mickeys Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Select dates from Sept. 14-Nov. 1
Each fall, guests are invited to dress in costumes and trick-or-treat throughout the Magic Kingdom after regular park hours. The boo-free bash includes a parade and bewitching fireworks spectacular. Admission: Adults starting at $59.95, children ages 3-9 starting at $53.95.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Global Peace Film Festival
Sept. 21 26
Guests can celebrate the art of film and its power to promote new understanding. Held in conjunction with the UNs International Day of Peace, the festival promotes the art of motion picture to further the goal of peace on earth. Events include film programs, panels and parties. Admission: $8/film; or pass (includes admission to all films and panels) $99.
peacefilmfest.org (http://www.peacefilmfest.org) 407-224-6625 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-224-6625 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Universals Halloween Horror Nights
Sept. 24, 25, 30
Oct. 1 3, 7 10, 14 17, 20 24, 27 31
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Universals Halloween Horror Nights is considered one of the worlds largest, most elaborate Halloween celebrations. Universal enlists a scream team of designers to research the human psyche and its deepest fears so guests can confront horrors of terrifying magnitudes. Admission: $74.99. halloweenhorrornights.com (http://www.halloweenhorrornights.com) 407-363-8000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-8000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Howl-O-Scream
Sept. 24, 25, 30
Oct. 1 2, 7 9, 14 -16, 21 23, 28 31
On select nights, Howl-O-Scream transforms Busch Gardens Tampa Bay into a nightmare of inescapable fear that will overwhelm the senses with a new spin of horror. The devious creatures that infest haunted houses, scare zones and thrilling shows have plenty of psychotic surprises in store and bone-chilling roller coasters to keep the screams coming all night long. Admission: Starting at $29.95 for Florida residents in advance. See website for Florida visitors and passport holders.
buschgardens.com (http://www.buschgardens.com) 888-800-5447 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 888-800-5447 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Fashion Week at The Mall at Millenia
Sept. 25 Oct. 3
See designer runway shows and a sneak preview of spring 2011s hottest fashion trends straight from international runways right here in Central Florida. Fashion followers will find more fun than they can fit inside a designer bag with a week-long series of in-store events, such as trunk shows and champagne receptions. Admission to runway show: TBD
mallatmillenia.com (http://www.mallatmillenia.com/experience/experience.htm) 407-363-3555 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-3555 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
OCTOBER
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Oct. 1 Nov. 14
From the seasoned connoisseur to the knowledge-seeking amateur, this popular event attracts a diverse audience to sip, sample and savor treasures from some of the worlds most famous wineries and celebrated chefs. Guests can boost their wine IQ at any of the hundreds of wine and beer seminars and polish their culinary skills at the numerous demonstrations and tastings. Admission: Included in regular park admission. Adults $82, children ages 3-9 $74, children ages 2 and under free.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
SeaWorlds Halloween Spooktacular
Oct. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 19-31 and 23-24
SeaWorlds Halloween Spooktacular is an underwater fantasea that comes alive as youngsters trick-or-treat among friendly sea witches, octopuses, mermaid, pumpkin fish and more. Children may dress up and play with sea fairies, learn from a school of fish or dance with an ice witch. Admission: Adults $78.95, children ages 3-9 $68.95, children ages 2 and under free. See website for Florida resident, passport holder and advance ticket rates.
SeaWorld.com (http://www.seaworld.com) 407-363-2259 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-2259 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Gay Pride Festival and Parade Come Out With Pride
Oct. 7-10
A signature event of the Metropolitan Business Association, Come Out With Pride is Central Orlandos largest gay pride festival and parade. The festivities are held in downtown Orlandos Lake Eola Park, complete with entertainment and long parade route.
mbaorlando.org (http://mbaorlando.org)
37th Annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival
Oct. 9-10, 2010
A juried art show with over 30-years of tradition, more than 40,000 people attend this free event held in Central Park that features work by outstanding Orlando artists. The event features live entertainment and food provided by local restaurants. Childrens art workshops are also offered. Admission: Free.
winterpark.org/autumnartfestival (http://www.winterpark.org/autumnartfestival) 407-644-8281 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-644-8281 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Biketoberfest
Oct. 14 – 17
Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach is a rousing, fun-filled weekend that attracts more than 125,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from near and far. Activities include rides, concerts, food and much more. Admission: Free. biketoberfest.org (http://www.biketoberfest.org) 386-255-0415 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 386-255-0415 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Fiesta del Coquí
Oct. 16 17
The annual Fiesta del Coquí lets guests party with the coquí and enjoy live music; crafts and activities; demonstrations and much more celebrating the Hispanic culture. Visitors can enjoy fabulous regional cuisines, dance to the sounds of local bands, and be entertained by local dance groups, all celebrating Puerto Rico. Admission: Adults $11.95, seniors ages 60+ $9.95, children ages 3-12 $7.95, children 2 and under free.
centralfloridazoo.org (http://www.centralfloridazoo.org) 407-323-4450 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-323-4450 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Park Avenue Fashion Week
Oct. 18 24
Park Avenue’s Fourth Annual Fashion Week will include luxurious runway shows and a swanky VIP event. Stores will host trunk shows and welcome the designers for meet-and-greets throughout the week. Admission for the Fashion Show: daytime show $20, evening show $30.
parkavenuefashionweek.com (http://www.parkavenuefashionweek.com) 843-478-0396 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 843-478-0396 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Orlando Home Show
Oct. 22 24
Held at the Orange County Convention Center, the Orlando Home Show is Central Floridas leading and largest consumer showcase of new products and services for home remodeling and interior décor. The show features local, regional and national experts in remodeling, building, decorating and landscaping; instructional how-to seminars; giveaways; contests; and exhibits with the industrys latest products. Admission: Adults $7 when purchased online, otherwise $10. Adults after 5 p.m. $5, seniors ages 60+ $5, children 12 and under free. orlandohomeshow.com (http://www.orlandohomeshow.com) 407-685-9800 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-685-9800 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Fall Jazz Stroll
Oct. 23
With a full moon as a backdrop, guests enjoy a leisurely evening of live jazz music in a beautiful garden setting at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando. Visitors can bring their own dinner picnic basket or purchase beverages and pastries onsite. Lawn seating only. Admission: $17 for advance purchase, $13 for Garden Members and $20 for event day tickets.
leugardens.org (http://www.leugardens.org) 407-246-2620 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-246-2620 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Mount Dora Craft Fair
Oct. 23 24
This nationally ranked, juried event continues to attract more than 250,000 visitors and more than 350 of the best crafters in the country. Admission: Free.
mountdora.com/festivals.php (http://www.mountdora.com/festivals.php) 352-383-2165 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 352-383-2165 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Zoo Boo Bash
Oct. 23 24, 30 31
Trick-or-treat in the wildest neighborhood in town at the Central Florida Zoo.This event is fun and not-too-scary event for young and old alike. Children can wear costumes for trick-or-treat stations and face painting.Visitors can take a haunted hayride, visit the pumpkin patch for a fun photo and learn about the myths and realities of some misunderstood animals. Admission: Adults $11.95, seniors ages 60+ $9.95, children ages 3-12 $7.95, children 2 and under free.
centralfloridazoo.org (http://www.centralfloridazoo.org) 407-323-4450 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-323-4450 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Triple-Treat Weekend
Oct. 29-31
In addition to rates starting at $380.12 per night for a three-bedroom villa, Reunion Resort also offers family-friendly Halloween festivities during their Triple-Treat Weekend Oct. 29-31. The weekend will include themed events, entertainment and frightening fun for ghouls and goblins of all ages.
reunionresort.com (http://reunionresort.com) 407-662-1000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-662-1000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
NOVEMBER
Orlando Film Festival
Nov. 3 – 7
The 5th annual Orlando Film Festival features events in and around the heart of Orlando, where patrons are able to enjoy great films in exciting venues while experiencing Orlandos downtown lifestyle. The festival seeks to inspire student, future and current filmmakers in the art of filmmaking and to enhance the movie viewing experience. Admission: Free.
orlandofilmfest.com (http://www.orlandofilmfest.com)
Sunset & Symphony Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
Nov. 6
Bok Tower Gardens invites guests to enjoy an evening of picnic, pops and patriotic favorites with the award-winning Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Experience the drama as the sky transforms from a colorful golden sunset glow into a magical darkened starry night on peninsular Orlandos highest point. Guests may explore the beauty of the Sanctuary and participate in the picnic decorating contest and instrument petting zoo. Admission: TBD
boktowergardens.org (http://www.boktowergardens.org) 863-676-1408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 863-676-1408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Fall Fiesta in the Park
Nov. 6 7
This event, held at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando, features more than 600 juried artisans in all media, including ceramics, glassware, jewelry, photography, wood and clothing to name a few. In addition to a fabulous lineup of art and live entertainment, the fiesta offers an array of tasty fare. Admission: Free.
cityoforlando.net (http://www.cityoforlando.net) 407-246-2121 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-246-2121 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
9th Annual Winter Park Concours dElegance
Nov. 7
More than 200 exotic and rare automobiles representing numerous international marques are on display on elegant Park Avenue. Guests wont want to miss the Tour dElegance, an exotic car parade. Automobiles will compete for class awards and 10 major awards including Best in Show. Admission: Free.
winterparkconcours.com (http://www.winterparkconcours.com) 407-649-9385 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-649-9385 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Childrens Miracle Network Classic
Nov. 11 – 14
This tournament brings together nearly 150 top PGA Tour players in a quest for a multi-million dollar purse. The 72-hole event is played on Disney’s Magnolia and Palm courses. Admission: TBD
disneyworldsports.com (http://www.disneyworldsports.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
35th Annual Festival of the Masters
Nov. 12 – 14
Held at Downtown Disney West Side, the event is a nationally recognized art show that year after year ranks among the top 50 outdoor art festivals in the world. More than 200 award-winning artists display their diverse creations for all to see. Live entertainment, hands-on childrens activities, pin trading and chalk art displays are also on tap at the three-day event. Admission: Free.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art
Nov. 13 21
For nine magical days, the Orlando Museum of Art is transformed into a glittering holiday wonderland where trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses ignite holiday spirit. The Winter Bark Village also allows dogs to enjoy a special pet-friendly village. Admission: TBD.
omart.org (http://www.omart.org) 407-896-4231 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-896-4231 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party
Select dates throughout Nov. and Dec.
The Magic Kingdom plays host to this series of nighttime holiday fun events for the little ones including holiday shows, fireworks and magic treats with Minnie and Mickey. Admission: Advance tickets for adults $53.95, children ages 3-9 $47.95. Same-day tickets $59.95 adults, $53.95 children ages 3-9.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
SeaWorlds Christmas Celebration
Mid Nov. Early Jan.
Create yuletide memories and celebrate the season during Christmas at SeaWorld. This holiday event features festive decorations, snowfalls at The Waterfront and live holiday music from classical musicians and carolers. Admission: TBD.
SeaWorld.com (http://www.seaworld.com) 407-363-2259 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-2259 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
ICE! At Gaylord Palms
Nov. 20 Jan. 2
Who says the holidays in Florida are all about palm trees and sunshine? Visitors should prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms Resort presents ICE!An instant dose of winter, this spectacle is made from nearly 2 million pounds (907,185 kilograms) of ice. Admission: TBD.
gaylordhotels.com (http://www.gaylordhotels.com) 407-586-2000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-586-2000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Leus Holiday House
Nov. 23 Jan. 3
The beautifully restored late 19th century Leu House Museum is decked out for the holidays by some of Orlandos best interior designers. Guests can stroll along the gardens meandering paths shaded by ancient oaks, forests of camellias and giant camphor trees. Admission: TBD.
leugardens.org (http://www.leugardens.org) 407-246-2620 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-246-2620 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Holidays Around the World
Nov. 26 Dec. 30
This Epcot tradition features storytellers, a daily character tree-lighting ceremony and a stunning display of snow-white lights. The moving Candlelight Processional, a favorite of all ages, includes celebrity guest narrators, accompanied by a massed choir and orchestra for a retelling of the Christmas story. Admission: Included in regular park admission. Adults $82, children ages 3-9 $74, children ages 2 and under free.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
November January
This dazzling holiday extravaganza electrifies Disneys Hollywood Studios with millions of sparkling lights. With Jennings Osbornes lights and a little Disney magic, the big city comes alive in glowing color as snow falls overhead. Admission: Included in regular park admission. Adults $82, children ages 3-9 $74, children ages 2 and under free.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
DECEMBER
The OUC Half Marathon and 5K
Dec. 4
One of the southeasts top road race events, the OUC Half Marathon and 5K winds through scenic downtown Florida and around beautiful Lake Eola alongside live local entertainment. Participants joining more than 3,000 runners for this charitable Florida tradition and enjoy sunny Florida skies, moderate temperatures and the Finish Line Fiesta for post-race festivities. Admission: 5K $25, Half Marathon $45.
OUChalfmarathonand5k.com (http://www.ouchalfmarathonand5k.com) 407-423-2476 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-423-2476 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Pop Warner Super Bowl
Dec. 4 – 11
Now in its 81st year of providing an organizational structure for youth football, Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. brings its Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer & Dance Championships to Walt Disney World Resort. More than 60 teams from across the country compete in four age groups from 8 to 14 on the fields of the 220-acre (80-hectare) ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Admission: TBD.
popwarner.com (http://www.popwarner.com) 215-752-2691 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 215-752-2691 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
The Chocolate Nutcracker
Dec. 10 12
A modern spin will be incorporated in the production as a variety of dance genresincluding ballet, tap, modern, swing, jazz, African, American pop and hip hopare highlighted in the performance. Admission: TBD. orlandochocolatenutcracker.com (http://www.orlandochocolatenutcracker.com) 407-445-3200 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-445-3200 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Champs Sports Bowl
Dec. 28
The Champs Sports Bowl, featuring teams from the ACC & Big Ten conferences, has existed in name since 2004, but the game’s history extends for more than 15 years. Attendance to the game has increased steadily every year since. It is played in the Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando. Admission: Tickets starting at $25.
fcsports.com (http://www.fcsports.com) 407-423-2476 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-423-2476 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Bowl-a-Palooza
Dec. 28 Jan. 1
All eyes will be on Orlando as Florida Citrus Sports presents its annual bowl festivities. Incorporating the Champs Sports Bowl and the Capital One Bowl on New Years Day, this week will feature more than 100,000 fans flocking to Central Florida for football, festivities and fun. In addition to outstanding action on the field, the festival includes the Orlando Citrus Parade and a concert in Lake Eola Park. Admission: TBD.
fcsports.com (http://www.fcsports.com) 407-423-2476 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-423-2476 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Orlando Citrus Parade
Dec. 30
The Orlando Citrus Parade, held in downtown Orlando, features signature citrus floats made from more than 100,000 grapefruit, oranges and tangerines. There are more than 50 entries, including marching bands from across the country. The parade attracts more than 60,000 spectators and an international audience of millions through its television syndication in the United States and Canada in 150 markets. Admission: Curbside Free, Grandstand $23.
fcsports.com (http://www.fcsports.com) 407-423-2476 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-423-2476 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
New Years Eve at SeaWorld Orlando
Dec. 31
SeaWorld Orlando is throwing a big New Years Eve party complete with live music and fireworks. Dance to the beat of a live DJ as the countdown to 2011 begins at The Waterfront, where guests can also enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment venues. At the stroke of midnight, witness the Orlando sky radiate during a brilliant fireworks show that will light up the night. Admission: Included in daily admission. Adults $78.95, children ages 3-9 $68.95, children ages 2 and under free.
SeaWorld.com (http://www.seaworld.com) 407-363-2259 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-2259 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
New Years Eve 2010 at Universal CityWalk
Dec. 31
Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre (121,406-square-meter) entertainment complex with themed restaurants, nightclubs and shops, hosts one of Orlandos hottest New Years Eve parties. The evening features live performances by national acts, an expansive gourmet buffet, a champagne toast and live entertainment at its nightclubs, including the groove , an electrifying dance club; CityJazz, a hip jazz venue; Jimmy Buffetts Magaritaville and others. Admission: TBD.
universalorlando.com (http://www.universalorlando.com) 407-363-8000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-8000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
New Years Eve at the Walt Disney World Resort
Dec. 31
The parks come alive to say farewell to 2010. Epcot celebrates the New Year “around the world” with DJs and evening dance parties located throughout World Showcase and lasting late into the evening, as well as a special presentation of the “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth” lights, lasers and fireworks display. Disneys Hollywood Studios celebrates New Year’s Eve not only with multiple presentations of “Fantasmic!” a spectacular of Disney movies and music, but also with a special “Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks spectacular, as well as a DJ dance party around the Sorcerer Hat Stage. Magic Kingdom features special presentations of the “SpectroMagic” parade and multiple nighttime fireworks displays. “Holiday Wishes” lights up the sky early in the evening and guests who make it to midnight can see Fantasy in the Sky fireworks, which begin just before the New Year kicks off. Admission: Theme park events are included in regular park admission. Adults $82, children ages 3-9 $74, children ages 2 and under free.
disneyworld.com (http://www.disneyworld.com) 407-824-4321 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-824-4321 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Macys Holiday Parade at Universal Studios
Mid December Early January 2011
The worlds most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios, featuring some of the most popular balloons and floats from the famous Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The excitement and pageantry of the parade, complete with a festive tree lighting ceremony by Santa Claus himself, is exhibited each day of the holiday season through the New Year. Admission: Included in regular park admission. Adults $82, children ages 3-9 $74, children ages 2 and under free.
universalorlando.com (http://www.universalorlando.com) 407-363-8000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-8000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Grinchmas at Universals Islands of Adventure Early
December 2010 Jan. 1, 2011
This annual holiday celebration is based on the beloved Dr. Seuss tale and Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainments Academy Award-winning blockbuster hit, Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure is transformed into a bah-humbug haven by the Grinch. The entire Seussian-themed island is colorfully decorated for the season, and guests are invited to meet the Grinch in his lair, which is outfitted with authentic movie props and gadgets. Grinch fans enjoy a live, musical stage show that re-tells the world-famous story of the grumpy Grinch Admission: Included in regular park admission. Adult $82, children ages 3-9 $74, children ages 2 and under free.
universalorlando.com (http://www.universalorlando.com) 407-363-8000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 407-363-8000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting