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The Top 10 Things To Do in Orlando this Weekend, January 2 - 4, 2026

  • Writer: Emma Walton
    Emma Walton
  • Jan 1
  • 4 min read
The weekend is here, check out our guide to the ten best things to do in Orlando this weekend!

The Top 10 Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend

Looking for plans in Orlando this weekend? We've got you covered, there is tons of exciting happening around the city, and with so much to do, we've selected our Top 10 list of cant-miss events and things to do throughout the weekend in Orlando.


Whatever you're in the mood for, save the date for a great weekend here in Orlando! Have fun!!



Top 10 Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, January 2 - 4, 2026

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

January 2 - 4

The Greatest Show On Earth is back at Tampa's Benchmark International Arena with a high-energy, music-driven experience with bold circus performances, unforgettable characters, and a nonstop party vibe.


Getdown Downtown Maitland Street Party

January 2

Downtown Maitland is the place to be on the first Friday of each month for Live Music, Food and Drink Vendors and Kids Activities.


The Sleeping Beauty

January 2

Experience The Sleeping Beauty, a timeless fairytale told through breathtaking choreography, Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, and a truly magical stage design at Dr Phillips Center's Steinmetz Hall. Follow the journey of Princess Aurora – from her christening and the wicked curse of Carabosse to a century-long slumber and her awakening by true love’s kiss. Every detail of this production is designed to enchant. at Dr Phillips Center.


Bank of America 'Museums on Us' Weekend

January 3 - 4

During the first full weekend of every month, Bank of America and Merrill Bank offer cardholders free general admission on both Saturday and Sunday to more than 225 cultural institutions in dozens of cities across the US. .


Valid cardholders can access free admission to the following area museums:

Orlando Science Center: 777 E. Princeton St. Orlando, FL 32803

History Center: 65 E. Central Blvd. Orlando, FL 32801

Orlando Museum of Art: 2416 North Mills Ave. Orlando, FL 32803

Mennello Museum of Art: 900 E. Princeton St. Orlando, FL 32803

Museum of Arts & Sciences: 352 S. Nova Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Tampa Museum of Art: Cornelia Corbett Center, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts: 1630 E 7th Avenue Ybor., Tampa, FL 33605

Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg: 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701


Orange County Regional History Center

January 3

History Alive is hosted at the Orange County Regional History Center. Did you know that Central Florida was once considered “Hollywood East,” a hub for film and animation in the eastern United States? Disney Animation Studios and Universal Studios created movie magic right here. At this History Alive event, step into the colorful world of Florida art, imagination, and moviemaking magic as you tour the museum and enjoy themed activities.


Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert

January 3

Welcome 2026 at Dr Phillips Center with a festive, European-inspired New Year's celebration, modelled after the world-famous New Year's Concert in Vienna. With timeless music, dazzling costumes, breathtaking dance and stunning floral designs, Salute to Vienna is a memorable New Year’s celebration full of old-world charm.


RP Funding Center in Lakaeland

January 3

Repticon, a recognized leader in hosting reptile and exotic animal expos throughout the United States, hosts an outstanding mixture of vendors, breeders, and educators at RP Funding Center in Lakaeland. This family-oriented, fun-filled event offers guests the opportunity to learn about animals not normally seen in local pet stores.


Lakeside Pilates in the Gardens

January 4

Self-Care Sunday at Leu Gardens with Pilates overlooking the lake. Joina Pilates mat class surrounded by the beautiful nature of Leu Gardens. You will be guided through exercises that focus on strengthening the core and developing the body uniformly, improving flexibility and balance.


Orlando Local Makers at Foxtail Coffee Winter Park

January 4

Brunch + Lattes + Local Makers = the perfect Sunday morning at The Foxtail Coffee in Winter Park. A boutique style outdoor pop-up, family + pet friendly. Come sip, stroll, and shop small in the coziest weekend setting.


Candlelight: Tribute to U2

January 4

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Orlando. Get your tickets now to discover the music of U2 at The Abbey – Orlando under the gentle glow of candlelight.


What are you most excited for this weekend? Let us know in the comments, and visit https://www.gottagoorlando.com/weekend-guide for a complete list of happenings!


For a complete guide to everything happening in Orlando this month, check out The Best Things To Do In Orlando This Month.


Before attending any of the events listed on Gotta Go Orlando, you should contact the organizer or venue to confirm that the event is taking place as information, changes, and cancellations can and do occur.


Orlando Mural in Downtown Orlando

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Gotta Go Orlando is your local source for entertainment news, events and things to do in Central Florida. We feature the latest concerts, theater news, arts & culture, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, festivals, events, and more.


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Emma Walton News Producer

Emma Walton

News Producer

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Shane Walton

News Producer

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Alastair Mac

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