Free & Cheap Things To Do in Orlando this Weekend, August 21 - 23, 2026
- Emma Walton
- 3 hours ago
- 18 min read
Looking for fun on a budget? This weekend offers tons of events that are either free or reasonably priced in Orlando, so you don't have to worry about your bank balance!
Free & Cheap Things To Do This Weekend In Orlando!
Orlando offers a vibrant mix of activities and fun things to do every weekend that happen to be free, or at the very least, don’t break the bank. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city, this weekend brings plenty of free and low-cost events that you can enjoy without worrying about the impact on your wallet.
From free events for the little ones, to cheap nights out for the grown ups, we've go you covered this weekend, with a great mix of movie nights, car shows, live music, and more all happening in Orlando.
Prior to attending events, please reach out to the event organizer to verify that the event is still scheduled, as changes and cancellations may happen, and we don't want you wasting your weekend plans!
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ONGOING MULTI-DAY EVENTS
July 24 - January 3
Explore the history and enduring legacy of colonialism in the Caribbean through The House That Freedoms Built, an outdoor installation by artist La Vaughn Belle on the Rollins College campus. Featuring three white, pitched-roof structures inspired by 18th-century homes built by formerly enslaved people of St. Croix, the work invites reflection on how ideas of home, belonging, and freedom are constructed. As the first in a series of installations leading to the opening of the Rollins Museum of Art’s new facility, it engages viewers in a thoughtful dialogue about identity, community, and the spaces we inhabit.
May 29 - November 8
In the decades following the Second World War, artists continued developing new stylistic vocabularies, sustaining the Abstract Expressionist movement amid the rise and influence of Minimalism, Conceptualism, and Pop Art. In Color Fields and Inspirations at Orlando Museum of Art, works by acclaimed artists of the 1960s and 1970s invite an ongoing conversation that embraces intuition, experimentation, and reflection on materiality.
June 18 - November 8
Represent: Contemporary Figuration and Portraiture from the Collection presents a selection of some of the most compelling and diverse portraits among the Orlando Museum of Art collection, featuring the recent acquisition of a Kandy G Lopez textile, Hispaniola II – Mia (2024) and the gift of David LaChapelle photograph The Annunciation , Hawaii (2019).
June 30 - November 8
USA 250: 250 Years on the Road to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness is an exhibition presented across two galleries at OMA. Drawing from the Collection of the Orlando Museum of Art, it is envisioned as a road trip across the United States, trailing significant historical points of view where artists have recognized, responded to, or documented changing human experiences. The earliest painting presented hails from the late 19th-century Hudson River School and is displayed alongside works across media that extend into our contemporary era.
March 7 - November 3
In 2026, Harry P. Leu Gardens proudly marks its 65th anniversary with a celebration titled Legacy in Bloom—a vibrant tribute to the enduring beauty, growth, and impact of this beloved public garden. Over the course of the year, visitors will experience a dynamic calendar of events, programs, exhibits, and installations that honor the Gardens’ rich past, thriving present, and bold future.
August 1 - October 4
Quilts are histories. They comfort, conform, reveal, and challenge. Histories in Thread: Honoring Heirlooms in Contemporary Quilting at the History Center brings together seven nationally and internationally recognized textile artists whose work explores creativity, culture, identity, and family history. Using fabric as both medium and storyteller, the artists demonstrate how quilting traditions can preserve the past, speak to the present, and help shape the future. The exhibition features techniques including piecing, embroidery, and origami-inspired folding techniques that create three-dimensional forms. Several works incorporate adinkra – symbols developed by the Akan people of present-day Ghana to express proverbs, values, and beliefs.
August 14 - September 30
The table is set for Orlando's foodie event of the year, with Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining, returning to the city from August 14 - September 30, 2026, celebrating 21 years of flavor and impact. Savor three-course, prix-fixe dinners at an unprecedented 180+ Orlando-area restaurants for just $40 or $60 per person, plus tax and gratuity, with participating venues exclusively offering $40 or $60 menus.
May 17 – September 7
IS IT SCIENCE... OR IS IT MAGIC?! Get ready for science to boggle your senses with a dazzling new exhibit where visitors of all ages will gain a deeper understanding of the science behind illusions and the mechanisms that govern human perception. Through hands-on experiences and captivating exhibits, guests will discover how scientific principles create various illusions that fool their brains.
May 30 - September 7
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic projection experience at Luminary Green Park in downtown Orlando! Running nightly through Labor Day on September 7, the park’s projection show has transformed into a red, white, and blue celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial.
June 8 - September 7
Step into a world of enchantment with Fairy Doors, a delightful exhibit featuring twenty one-of-a-kind, magical doors tucked away throughout the gardens. Each fairy door is crafted by a different fairy and invites young dreamers (and the young at heart) into a realm of secret gardens, whispering woods, and sparkling imagination. A special map will guide your journey, complete with charming tales of the fairies who created each door, adding a touch of storybook magic to your adventure. Gather your family and friends and see if you can find them all…but remember, these doors open only for fairies. Included with daytime admission, this enchanting experience promises wonder, laughter, and a sprinkle of fairy dust for visitors of all ages.
August 6 – 30, Select Dated, Previews: August 6 & 7
Southeastern Regional Premiere at The Winter Park Playhouse! Put on your platforms, shades and bell bottoms and get ready to party! This new musical celebrates the iconic sounds of the 70s that defined a generation. Featuring a cast of 6 incredible women singing more than 30 well-loved songs by Heart, Fleetwood Mac, The Jackson Five, Diana Ross, Linda Ronstadt, Gloria Gaynor, and many more.
June 11 - August 23
Created in Community: Portraits of Pulse commemorates the 10-year remembrance of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy on June 12, 2016. This powerful exhibition features 49 portraits honoring the lives lost, created through a deeply collaborative community effort. Designed by local artist Jeff Sonksen in a paint-by-number format, the works were completed in 2017 by victims’ families, friends, and members of the Orlando community. Each portrait emerged through a shared process of painting, transforming grief into collective remembrance and healing. As you move through the exhibition at the Terrace Gallery, Orlando City Hall, you are invited to reflect on the lives remembered and the enduring strength of a community united in remembrance.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
August 20 - 23
Your Well + Wild Weekend lineup is here, August 20–23 Enjoy Boxi Park Run Club on Thursday, sing along with a Swift Tribute Band on Friday, and bring the family out for Family Sunday Funday on Sunday. Pair it all with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
August 21
Join HENRY for a Magical Evening at the Sanford Twilight Artisan Market & Pet Stroll, from 4 – 9 pm, at Henry’s Depot in Sanford
August 21
Florida has long-inspired stories of mysterious creatures and unexplained encounters. From alligators – living links to a distant prehistoric past – to the iconic Creature from the Black Lagoon movies, filmed at Florida’s springs, and the elusive Skunk Ape, tales of extraordinary beings have become part of the state’s folklore. Are these legends rooted in reality, mistaken identity, or pure imagination? You decide. Explore the History Center after hours with guided tours, cryptid presentations, interactive games, themed drinks, live music, and our signature courtroom trials in the historic 1927 courthouse. This adults-focused evening offers a chance to experience Florida history from a different perspective.
August 21
Step into an enchanting world of fairies at Leu Gardens! Join us for a whimsical celebration filled with wonder and creativity for all ages. Step into an enchanting world of fairies and wonder. Discover hidden Fairy Doors, take part in magical activities, and meet real fairies along the way. Let your imagination soar as you create whimsical art at fairy landings, plant a fairy garden, and don’t forget to dress in your most magical, fairy-inspired attire to fully embrace the experience.
August 21
Get ready to light up the night at Ice Factory Kissimmee's Glow Party. The rink is transforming into a neon playground filled with music, glowing lights, and nonstop fun. Slide into the vibe with interactive games, electric energy, and a dance-worthy atmosphere on ice. $22 includes skate rental + a glow item Dress in your brightest neon, grab your glow sticks, and get ready to shine as you skate your way through an unforgettable night. Don’t miss it—this is one party that truly glows different.
August 21
Get ready to laugh out loud at Comedy on Broadway in Kissimmee! Join us in person for a night packed with hilarious jokes, witty performances, and good vibes all around. Whether you're a comedy fan or just looking for a fun night out, this is the spot to be. Bring your friends, grab some snacks, and enjoy the show live! Take a look at this month's lineup: Greg Perrit, the Angry Texan (Headliner) Erick Lutz (Headliner) Ivon Dee Kyle Christopher Jen Lil Bit Marty Chalfin Don Gates (Host)
Every Friday and Saturday
Discover Sanford’s unknown and sometimes dark history, including access to a haunted area! This 90-minute tour led by a local guide allows you to experience historical stories of Sanford’s past residents and those still lurking around are plentiful.
Every Friday and Saturday
This is SAK’s signature improv show! Two teams of professional improvisers compete for your laughs with audience judges selected at the start of the show.
Every Friday and Saturday
In this knockdown, drag-out comedy battle, a cast of our professional performers pair up in teams of two and use audience suggestions to create scenes, songs and characters on the spot at King of the Hill!
Every Friday
Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center from 6 pm. Enjoy a stroll as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while and enjoy the art displayed on the art installation, The Beacon.
Every Friday
TPD Night Market is a weekly Friday night market featuring 20 plus vendors at 431 E Central Blvd, Thornton Park, Orlando.
Every Friday
Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza, at Downtown Winter Garden in the beautiful Centennial Plaza Gazebo.
Every Friday
Join the heart pounding excitement of high-performance engines and true horse power for our Muscle Car Show every Friday night at Old Town in Kissimmee. The Friday Muscle Car Show begins at 3 pm featuring show-quality muscle and factory-performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars cruise at 8:30 pm.
Every Friday
Every Friday night, Sunset Walk presents the Promenade Racing Car & Truck Show, a free event with all makes, models, and years welcome of show car quality. Enjoy live entertainment with DJ, bands, and more.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2026
August 20 - 23
Your Well + Wild Weekend lineup is here, August 20–23 Enjoy Boxi Park Run Club on Thursday, sing along with a Swift Tribute Band on Friday, and bring the family out for Family Sunday Funday on Sunday. Pair it all with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
August 22 - 23
Get ready for Central Florida’s most epic family experience ... the Florida Kids and Family Expo, celebrating 11 years of unforgettable fun, learning, and connection for families across Orlando and beyond! Join thousands of families August 22–23, 2026 inside the Orange County Convention Center’s North Concourse (Hall C) for two full days of interactive exhibits, live entertainment, family fun zones, and hands-on experiences for kids of all ages.
August 22
All the fun of a renaissance festival indoors! Over 200 exhibitors, live entertainment, costumes and more!
August 22
Get ready to hit rewind… because we’re throwing it all the way back to the greatest decade ever! Be Kind, Please Rewind - A Tribute to the ’90s. Dust off those butterfly clips, windbreakers, platform sneakers, overalls, chokers, and bucket hats because we want to see EVERYONE showing up in their best ‘90s gear! Whether you’re channeling your favorite Nickelodeon character, sitcom icon, movie legend, or pop star, this is your chance to relive the decade that raised us. DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Theme Park Resort. FREE Admission and FREE Parking.
August 22
Shake up story time with sensory play at Orlando Family Stage! Children ages 0-24 months engage in dramatic play, music, and storytelling that fosters early developmental milestones. Each class has a unique theme that stimulates imagination, movement, and social skills. Two adults per child maximum.
August 22
Join us for a special community yoga event hosted at Orlando Executive Airport!Cleared for Calm is a mindful movement experience — think gentle yoga for every BODY! Through gentle stretching, extended holds, and intentional breathwork, this class invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and come back to YOU. No experience needed, no pressure to perform — just you, showing up for yourself. Whether you've never unrolled a mat or you're a longtime mover, this class meets you exactly where you are!
August 22
Join Lake Nona for Race 2 of the 2026 Lake Nona Tri Series, a thrilling point-to-point race.
August 22
Join the Solar Bears at the AdventHealth Rink at Kia Center for an Open House on Saturday, August 22 from 8 am - 5 pm to select your seats for the upcoming 2026-27 season!
August 22
Every day we interact with different systems, natural and artificial. They are a necessary part of our life that provides us with a sense of security, efficiency, stability, and predictability. We rely on them for everything from technology, communication, movement, to knowledge and understanding. They are so ubiquitous that we even have systems to organize our systems. These five Florida artists disrupt some of those tried-and-true systems by unveiling unreliability and pushing toward instability in order to subvert our preconceived notions in search of something new, a different understanding. This event takes place at Casselberry Arts Center.
August 22
Dust off the leg warmers, tease that hair, and throw on your brightest neon, it’s time to party like it’s 1985! at Home State Brewing Co. in Winter Garden. Whether you’re channeling your favorite ‘80s icon, rocking neon from head to toe, or just coming for the music and good vibes, this is one party you won’t want to miss. Grab your crew and let’s rewind the clock for a night of dancing, nostalgia, and unforgettable memories!
August 22
Stand Up Winter Park presents an intimate evening of exceptional live comedy, featuring accomplished professional comedians from the national and regional club circuit. Thoughtfully curated and presented in Blue Bamboo’s distinctive setting, each performance offers a fresh lineup and a memorable night out built around one simple idea: great comedy, up close.
August 22
Tommy the Terrible Toupee Book Signing Live at Will’s Pub August 22, 2026
Join author Carol Benanti and illustrator Dave Mitchell for a special book signing celebratin Tommy the Terrible Toupee. This all-ages event is free to attend and will also feature a performance by 24 Hour Karate People.
August 22
Celebrate World Plant Milk Day with an evening of tastings, creative cocktails, and community at Lil Indies. Enjoy alternative milk tastings, house-made banana milk, vegan cocktails featuring a variety of plant milks, plant-head portraits by Dawrby, an immersive audioscape from DJ Luce Sky, and a community plant swap. Guests are encouraged to bring a clipping, take a clipping, or simply come enjoy the festivities. 21+
Every Friday and Saturday
Discover Sanford’s unknown and sometimes dark history, including access to a haunted area!
This 90-minute tour led by a local guide allows you to experience historical stories of Sanford’s past residents and those still lurking around are plentiful.
Every Saturday
Enjoy the haunted tales of ghostly experiences in Historic Downtown Sanford while sipping some delicious craft beer from three popular craft beer establishments. This 90-minute tasting tour starting at 8:30 pm is led by BJCP Certified Beer Judge, Gary Holmes. Learn historical stories gathered from the people who live in Sanford, while getting intimate with local brewers and Sanford craft beer.
Every Friday and Saturday
This is SAK’s signature improv show! Two teams of professional improvisers compete for your laughs with audience judges selected at the start of the show.
Every Friday and Saturday
In this knockdown, drag-out comedy battle, a cast of our professional performers pair up in teams of two and use audience suggestions to create scenes, songs and characters on the spot at King of the Hill!
Every Saturday and Sunday
Enjoy yoga in the Garden in the midst of the beautiful Mead Botanical Garden. Take part in the opportunity to truly connect with yourself and nature. Takes place every Saturday, 9 - 10 am and Sundays 4 - 5 pm. $15 (Proceeds will benefit Mead Botanical Garden) . Bring a yoga mat and water.
Every Saturday
Mead Botanical Gardens offers a unique experience to practice Tai Chi in the Garden with certified Tai Chi Health Master Trainer, Tony Garcia. Takes place every Saturday, 10:30 - 11.30 am. Please bring water.
Every Saturday
Namaste, a new you awaits. Find your perfect balance in the serene outdoor yoga classes at Lake Nona Wave Hotel. Set amidst the picturesque Sculpture Garden, experienced nstructors will guide you through a harmonious blend of strength and flexibility.
Every Saturday
Dance, play and be entertained at engaging shows for kids of all ages at the Disney Springs Kids Club, taking place every Saturday. Free Entertainment and Free Parking.
Every Saturday
It's every yoga and beer lover's favorite time of the week! Come join RockPit Brewing & Distilling this Saturday morning for some rejuvenating yoga and a pint of craft beer deliciousness at the end. Don't forget to bring your yoga mat. $10 at the door or pre-purchase.
Every Saturday
Join Bicikleta Bike Shop on a Lake Monroe Loop. This 28-mile bike ride will take you on an adventure around Lake Monroe. Saturday mornings – meet up is at 7:15 am. The ride starts promptly at 7:30 am.
Every Saturday
Join us on Saturday afternoons for docent-led museum tours that highlight works from Rollins Museum of Art's current exhibitions.
Every Saturday
Join Old Town in Kissimmee every Saturday and take a trip down memory lane. The Old Town Classic Car Show has been a local tradition for over 30 years, it is one of the premier weekly car shows in Central Florida. The Saturday Classic Car Show begins at 1:00pm and welcomes show-quality 1985 and older hot rods, street rods, and antiques. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm. The event is free for participants and free for the public to attend.
Every Saturday
Live on the Lawn is your Saturday oasis to relax and recharge while listening to live music and playing lawn games with family and friends. Join Lake Nona from 11 am – 3 pm every Saturday!
Every Saturday
The Promenade at Sunset Walk is home to Show Car Saturday Nights. All makes and models are welcome and displayed along Margaritaville Boulevard. Car enthusiasts will enjoy the music of DJ Scotty B while admiring an amazing collection of classic to modern automobiles, with live bands performing on the Promenade Plaza Stage nightly.
Every Saturday
The Sunset Saturday Artisan Market takes place at the Promenade at Sunset Walk every Saturday evening, featuring the best local artisan, craft, and specialty vendors from across Central Florida.
Every Saturday
The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8 am - 1 pm in beautiful Historic Winter Garden.
Every Saturday
The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is one of the best produce and plant markets in Central Florida which takes place every Saturday morning from 8 am - 1 pm in Central Park.
Every Saturday
The Lake Mary Farmers Market features local vendors of produce, plants, baked goods, and arts and crafts. The market is open every Saturday, from 9 am - 1:30 pm at Lake Mary City Hall.
Every Saturday
Visit every Saturday at the City of Longwood Farmers Market at Reiter Park from 9 am - 2 pm, with locally sourced seafood and produce to handmade crafts and more.
Every Saturday
Join in every Saturday morning in Lake Nona, the Lake Nona Farmers Market takes place in the beautiful Town Center from 11 am - 3 pm, shop local with the freshest produce and more.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 2026
August 20 - 23
Your Well + Wild Weekend lineup is here, August 20–23 Enjoy Boxi Park Run Club on Thursday, sing along with a Swift Tribute Band on Friday, and bring the family out for Family Sunday Funday on Sunday. Pair it all with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
August 22 - 23
Get ready for Central Florida’s most epic family experience ... the Florida Kids and Family Expo, celebrating 11 years of unforgettable fun, learning, and connection for families across Orlando and beyond! Join thousands of families August 22–23, 2026 inside the Orange County Convention Center’s North Concourse (Hall C) for two full days of interactive exhibits, live entertainment, family fun zones, and hands-on experiences for kids of all ages.
August 23
Enjoy a docent-led tour at Orlando Museum of Art featuring the “Highlights of the Collection.” Free with paid gallery admission.
August 23
Join Dreamers & Doer's Market for The Spirit Realm Market, indoors at Osceola Heritage Park.
August 23
Join Four Corners Fit 'N Fun in Clermont for their One Year Anniversary Celebration!!!! Each child will receive 30 minutes of FREE playtime, plus balloons, tattoos, fun prizes and AWESOME DEALS!
August 23
Create a whimsical fairy door using natural elements, tiny windows, and a mushroom made from a champagne cork at Orlando's Leu Gardens.
August 23
Get ready for a MAGICAL afternoon at The Unicorn Skate Jam at Skate Reflections in Kissimmee! Join us August 23 from 1:30–4:30 PM for a colorful day of skating, including a FREE rainbow glow stick, Meet & Greet with our Rink Unicorns, and a Magical Treasure Hunt for hidden rainbow squishies! Admission is just $10 with $4 skate rental. Grab the kids and come roll into a world of rainbows, unicorns, and skating fun!
August 23
Back for its second year, Punk for Public Media is an afternoon of live music at Will's Pub in support of trustworthy, independent journalism and freedom of the press. Proceeds from your ticket support Central Florida Public Media — your nonprofit, community-owned and operated newsroom covering all nine counties of Central Florida.
Every Saturday and Sunday
Enjoy yoga in the Garden in the midst of the beautiful Mead Botanical Garden. Take part in the opportunity to truly connect with yourself and nature. Saturdays, 9 – 10 am & Sundays 4 – 5 pm. $15 (Proceeds will benefit Mead Botanical Garden) . Bring a yoga mat and water.
Every Sunday
Enjoy Family Fun Day every Sunday at Boxi Park, with face painters, balloon artists entertainers, and live music. Fun for the whole family! 1 pm - 9 pm.
Every Sunday
Hosted by the Mennello Museum of American Art with classes led by certified Full Circle Yoga, Winter Park. Start your Sunday mornings out blissfully with a relaxing lakeside flow. Join us in the shade of the trees for a practice that is suitable for all levels! Don’t forget to bring a mat, towel, and water to have a great practice.
Every Sunday
One of the most popular farmers markets in Central Florida, Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of Orlando at Lake Eola park, and takes place Sundays 10 am - 4 pm.
Every Sunday
Every week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors selling everything from fresh food and produce, to local crafted jewelry, and much more, with a beautiful backdrop of Lakeside Park, this is a must go to farmers market on Sundays, 9 am - 2 pm
Every Sunday
The popular East Orlando Farmers Market offers hand selected produce, creative local small business owners, along with botanical varieties to chose from. Every Sunday 11 am - 4 pm.
Every Sunday
Clermont Farmer's Market features over 60 vendors selling seafood, organic produce, and other household items, this popular market is the place to go on Sundays 9 am - 2 pm.
Every Sunday
Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 0 am - 2 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors.
Every Sunday
Join Promenade at Sunset Walk every Sunday evenings as El Jefe Tequilas Taco Cantina, BR 77 Brazilian Steak House, and Estefan Kitchen Orlando present Sunday-Latin-Sunday. on the Promenade Plaza Stage, featuring the very best DJs from Central Florida including: DJ Gabriel, DJ J Quezt, DJ Elie, and DJ K1X spinning the best merengue, salsa, Latin pop, bachata, and more!
You've made it to the end of the list! Whatever you've decided to do in Orlando this weekend we hopw you have a great time.
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