Free & Cheap Things To Do in Orlando this Weekend, May 15 - 17, 2026
- Alastair Mac
- 8 minutes ago
- 19 min read
Looking for weekend fun on a budget? There are plenty of free or cheap things to do in Orlando that won't break the bank this weekend!
Free & Cheap Things To Do This Weekend In Orlando!
Orlando offers a vibrant mix of activities every weekend, including fun things that don’t break the bank. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this weekend brings plenty of free and low-cost events that let you enjoy the city without spending much.
From free events for the little ones, to cheap nights out for the grown ups, we've go you covered. This weekend features outdoor festivals, movie nights, car shows, art walks, live music, and more. Seriously, there’s something for everyone.
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.
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ONGOING SPECIAL EVENTS
March 19 - June 14
A Day of Four Sunsets presents a new body of work by Miami-based artist Dennis Scholl, exploring the poetics of space exploration through assemblages of NASA memorabilia. The exhibition takes its title from astronaut John Glenn’s experience of witnessing four sunsets as he orbited Earth in 1962, evoking themes of time, memory, and the sublime vastness of the cosmos.
March 7 - May 31
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.
May 9 - 23
Thornton Park’s favorite feline, Lulu—affectionately known as the neighborhood’s “Mayor”—is celebrating another year of power with a multi-day Birthday Celebration & Fundraiser from May 9 through May 23. Blending art, community, and a shared love of cats, this two-week event invites residents, businesses, and visitors to take part in a series of experiences designed to bring people together while raising funds for local cat rescues.
May 1 - 17, Select Dates
POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive is a sharp, filthy, and wildly funny Broadway farce by playwright Selina Fillinger — and it might be the most honest thing ever written about who's actually running the country. Behind the doors of the White House, seven women are sprinting in every direction to contain the latest disaster their boss has created. It's a comedy. It's a commentary. And it moves like a freight train. Originally directed by Susan Stroman, POTUS earned three Tony nominations on Broadway, including recognition for its powerhouse ensemble. Now it's coming to Sanford — and it's not pulling any punches.
May 9 - 17
The 73rd Annual Parade of Homes Orlando, presented by the Greater Orlando Builders Association (GOBA), invites Central Floridians to explore the region’s most inspiring new homes, remodels, luxury residences, and apartment communities. This free, self-guided event allows visitors to tour participating locations throughout Greater Orlando while discovering the latest trends in home design, smart technology, energy efficiency, outdoor living, and interior style. Whether you’re house-hunting, remodeling, or simply looking for design inspiration, the Parade of Homes Orlando offers something for everyone.
April 3 - May 16, Select Dates
Doors are at 10 pm. Escape for a little while. The show begins around 10:30 PM. After the show, be ready to boogie thenight away on the dance floor. Dress to the nines, babes. All performances are at HOME at Renaissance Theatre Company (415 E. Princeton Street in Orlando). Disco is a state of mind... See. Be Seen!
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026
May 12 - 25
The longest-running Fringe Theatre Festival in the United States features every genre imaginable, including drama, dance, musicals, comedy, burlesque, puppetry and more. Orlando’s 14-day immersive cultural experience, the Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival includes over 2,000 ticketed performances, and includes an outdoor music festival called Visual Fringe, which features displays of art, while Kids Fringe provides weekend play and entertainment for younger audience members.
May 14 -17
Thunder on Cocoa Beach offshore powerboat races will be returning for its 16th year on Florida’s Space Coast, scheduled for May 14-17, 2026. Join us for 4 days and nights of parties and lots of racing action. The Space Coast Super Boat Grand Prix is one of the most popular attractions for the whole family in Central Florida. The event, one of the largest in Central Florida, draws the top race teams in the World to compete in various classes with Class 1 reaching speeds over 175 mph.
May 14 -17
May 14–17 is all about you and your four-legged bestie. Start with Run Club on Thursday, then swing by Saturday for pup-friendly fun with Acasio Pet Grooming, CityVet, Xanipa & Co., and Woof and Zoom Photography capturing those must-have dog moments. Bring your furry friends and make it a weekend to remember
May 15 - 17
Mark your calendars! The 2026 St. Cloud Garage Sale dates are May 15-17 and November 13-15. On those dates, residents in the city limits can hold garage sales without obtaining the city permit that is normally required.
May 15
Rain or shine, come to Downtown Clermont and enjoy sampling a variety of red, white, and rose wines at over 20 participating local businesses.
May 15
Drop your kids off at Camp Wewa and enjoy a few hours to have a Parent's Night Out!
May 15
Orlando Gay Chorus presents a new mainstage spring production at The Ritz Theatre in Sanford, kicking off Pride Month by setting the tone for what it means to be fierce, fabulous, and fearless in the face of adversity. This is more than a concert—it is a joyful act of resistance, a celebration of authenticity, and a reminder that our stories, our identities, and our music will not be erased.
May 15
Virtuoso pianist MIA presents RHAPSODIC, a show centered around a tribute to George Gershwin, weaving his beloved tunes within the iconic Rhapsody in Blue, creating a tapestry of vibrant deco brilliance!Liberace’s conductor/orchestrator, Arte Azenzer, created the piece for virtuoso pianist Mia Vassilev, whom Arte met in Florida following one of her performances, dubbing her ‘Miss Flying Fingers.’ Mia is joined by local Greg Diaz and friends.
May 15
World Music Festival/Jazz Series/R&B: The CieL Experience is a South Florida–based jazz fusion collective blending traditional jazz with R&B, funk, swing, and Haitian Konpa. We’re currently touring in support of our latest album, Influences — a project that pays tribute to the artists, genres, and cultures that shaped our sound. Each performance is rich with original compositions and reimagined classics, offering audiences a vibrant, story-driven live music experience that’s both culturally rooted and forward-looking.
May 15
Catch the opening night of "Night Light" works by Bryan Sherbrook. Curated by Heidi Kneisl. May 15 at Lil’ Indies. No Cover.
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, MAY 16, 2026
May 12 - 25
The longest-running Fringe Theatre Festival in the United States features every genre imaginable, including drama, dance, musicals, comedy, burlesque, puppetry and more. Orlando’s 14-day immersive cultural experience, the Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival includes over 2,000 ticketed performances, and includes an outdoor music festival called Visual Fringe, which features displays of art, while Kids Fringe provides weekend play and entertainment for younger audience members.
May 14 -17
Thunder on Cocoa Beach offshore powerboat races will be returning for its 16th year on Florida’s Space Coast, scheduled for May 14-17, 2026. Join us for 4 days and nights of parties and lots of racing action. The Space Coast Super Boat Grand Prix is one of the most popular attractions for the whole family in Central Florida. The event, one of the largest in Central Florida, draws the top race teams in the World to compete in various classes with Class 1 reaching speeds over 175 mph.
May 14 -17
May 14–17 is all about you and your four-legged bestie. Start with Run Club on Thursday, then swing by Saturday for pup-friendly fun with Acasio Pet Grooming, CityVet, Xanipa & Co., and Woof and Zoom Photography capturing those must-have dog moments. Bring your furry friends and make it a weekend to remember
May 15 - 17
Mark your calendars! The 2026 St. Cloud Garage Sale dates are May 15-17 and November 13-15. On those dates, residents in the city limits can hold garage sales without obtaining the city permit that is normally required.
May 16 - 17 and May 23 - 24
Kids Fringe, a family-focused extension of the Orlando Fringe Festival is a kid-friendly fringe experience of shows, crafts, activities, and games. All for FREE! Perfect for kids of all ages at Orlando Garden Club — 710 E Rollins St, Orlando.
May 16 -17
Discover something new in bloom at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Join us for a special two-day Weekend Plant Sale featuring a curated selection of native and exotic plants from local nurseries, garden partners, and our very own botanical collection. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, you’ll find something to take home and grow
May 16 - 17
Based on a traditional African folk tale, A Treeful of Monkeys takes us on a story about a hat seller who takes a nap under a tree, only to wake up and discover that monkeys had taken all of his hats! Join the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra mixed ensemble at The Plaza Live as we work with the narrator to get all of his hats back.
May 16
Saddle up for the Hamlin Hoedown, a family morning of western fun at Hamlin Town Center. Ride a pony, meet the animals at the petting zoo, get crafty with the kids, and dance it out with DJ Renee. Grab a bite from a local food vendor and settle in for games, music, and neighborhood spirit.
May 16
Get ready for a full day of fitness, health, wellness, live music, markets, and fun. Participate in a variety of fitness classes, browse vendor displays, connect with class instructors, and get moving! Each class is 20 minutes in length. Join us for a class, or join us for the day!
May 16
Let the fun begin at Cranes Roost Park! The season of sunshine kicks off with the Summer Block Party, an action-packed celebration you won’t want to miss. Enjoy live music, splash-worthy water fun, exciting interactive games and nonstop entertainment for all ages. Browse a variety of vendors offering themed activities, indulge in delicious food and refreshing drinks, and take in the vibrant atmosphere with family and friends.
May 16
Brevard County’s only Burger Fest featuring event special a la carte tasting menus from burger competitors and dessert vendors priced at $5 or less per item offering you the opportunity to sample a vast variety of all the best from the space coast and beyond all-in-one place!
Large variety of alcohol, including cocktails, hard seltzers, local draft craft brews, domestic and import beers, and non-alcoholic beverages! Live music from the area’s hottest bands to keep the good vibes going all day & into the night
May 16
Save the date for this weekend's Wings & Wheels Family Fest event! This free, family-friendly event will take place at the Orlando Executive Airport. Get up close to an awesome lineup of aircraft & helicopters, emergency response vehicles, high-end sports cars & specialty transport, music, food trucks and more! Bring the whole family out to the airport ramp and experience the thrill of aviation, horsepower, and community fun! See you there!
May 16
Join Orange County Library System: Eatonville Branch for a moderated panel discussion focusing on Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston. This engaging conversation will feature special guest panelists exploring key themes and literary elements of this revolutionary novel.
May 16
Members of the original Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team continue to WOW central Florida audiences, and work to pass on their water skiing skills to the next generation. Be sure to check out the FREE Cypress Gardens Water Ski show at the newly remodeled Martin Luther King Jr Park, on Lake Silver, Winter Haven.
May 16
Offered in partnership with Orange County, this event provides free trees to residents to plant on their property.
May 16
Join us for Zumba in the Park on Saturday, May 16 at the Performance Art Pavilion (1402 Lakeshore Blvd), St. Cloud. Enjoy a high-energy, full-body workout with easy-to-follow moves, great music, and a fun atmosphere for all fitness levels. Food trucks and vendors will also be on site. Bring a friend and come move with us.
May 16
Join the City of St. Cloud for Sami’s Star-Spangled Celebration at Veterans Memorial St. Cloud Library, 810 13th St. Enjoy patriotic crafts, a live DJ, inflatables, face painting, and much more!
May 16
Last Show of the 2025/2026 Season! Come join us on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Apopka Amphitheater for our free family-friendly concert series, Saturday Sounds, with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band.
May 16
Greg Diaz is a premier vocalist, saxophonist, flutist, clarinetist, composer and arranger.
May 16
United Groove performs live Funk, Reggae, MoTown, Smooth Jazz, + R&B at Lil' Indies from 9pm-Midnight. No Cover!
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, MAY 17, 2026
May 12 - 25
The longest-running Fringe Theatre Festival in the United States features every genre imaginable, including drama, dance, musicals, comedy, burlesque, puppetry and more. Orlando’s 14-day immersive cultural experience, the Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival includes over 2,000 ticketed performances, and includes an outdoor music festival called Visual Fringe, which features displays of art, while Kids Fringe provides weekend play and entertainment for younger audience members.
May 14 -17
Thunder on Cocoa Beach offshore powerboat races will be returning for its 16th year on Florida’s Space Coast, scheduled for May 14-17, 2026. Join us for 4 days and nights of parties and lots of racing action. The Space Coast Super Boat Grand Prix is one of the most popular attractions for the whole family in Central Florida. The event, one of the largest in Central Florida, draws the top race teams in the World to compete in various classes with Class 1 reaching speeds over 175 mph.
May 14 -17
May 14–17 is all about you and your four-legged bestie. Start with Run Club on Thursday, then swing by Saturday for pup-friendly fun with Acasio Pet Grooming, CityVet, Xanipa & Co., and Woof and Zoom Photography capturing those must-have dog moments. Bring your furry friends and make it a weekend to remember
May 15 - 17
Mark your calendars! The 2026 St. Cloud Garage Sale dates are May 15-17 and November 13-15. On those dates, residents in the city limits can hold garage sales without obtaining the city permit that is normally required.
May 16 - 17 and May 23 - 24
Kids Fringe, a family-focused extension of the Orlando Fringe Festival is a kid-friendly fringe experience of shows, crafts, activities, and games. All for FREE! Perfect for kids of all ages at Orlando Garden Club — 710 E Rollins St, Orlando.
May 16 -17
Discover something new in bloom at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Join us for a special two-day Weekend Plant Sale featuring a curated selection of native and exotic plants from local nurseries, garden partners, and our very own botanical collection. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, you’ll find something to take home and grow
May 16 - 17
Based on a traditional African folk tale, A Treeful of Monkeys takes us on a story about a hat seller who takes a nap under a tree, only to wake up and discover that monkeys had taken all of his hats! Join the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra mixed ensemble at The Plaza Live as we work with the narrator to get all of his hats back.
May 17
Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in Ocoee. Hosted by the Asian American Heritage Council of Central Florida at Ocoee Lakeshore Center at Bill Breeze Park, enjoy live cultural performances, traditional and modern Asian performances, cultural exhibits and demonstrations, hands-on activities for kids and families, food vendors featuring Asian cuisine, local vendors and merchandise booths, plus community organizations and cultural displays. The celebration showcases a wide variety of Asian American cultures and talent from Central Florida’s Asian American ethnic groups from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
May 17
Join the City of Orlando at Trotters Park for an unforgettable night full of food vendors, tasteful bar selections, and some of Orlando's finest DJs.
May 17
The Florida Bridal & Wedding Expo comes to Florida State Fairgrounds, showcasing an amazing selection of wedding professionals ready to help couples find the perfect gown, reception venue, invitations, photographer, music, menu, honeymoon destination, and much more.
May 17
Join the Central Florida Jazz Society for a memorable afternoon celebrating excellence in jazz at this year’s Hall of Fame Show. The event will honor two outstanding contributors to the local jazz community, Carol Stein and Walt Hubbard, as they are officially inducted into the Hall of Fame.
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!
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