Search this site

Get ready for a culinary event with an international taste as the popular, annual International Food & Drink Festival returns to the Milk District. Fall is a great time in Orlando with lots of events and festivals to enjoy, and this September, the International Food and Drink Festival is returning to the Milk District on Sunday, September 17, from 11 am to 9 pm. Celebrating the 8th year of the event, enjoy the best restaurants from Central Florida, exotic drinks, food eating contests, giveaways and more! Vendors who will be taking part include, JoJo's Shake Bar Orlando, Sandra's Seafood and Soul Kitchen, Paellas Madrileñas, Ruben Place Asia, and many more. The event is taking place at Festival Park in Downtown Orlando. 2911 E. Robinson St. Orlando, FL 32803. The festival is free to enter, and guests are encouraged to bring their kids and pets to join the fun and enjoy the food! For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

It's the weekend and with no shortage of things to do here in Orlando, we've chosen all the fun and FREE EVENTS that are taking place throughout the weekend here in the city beautiful. Best FREE Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend Friday, September 8, 2023 Saturday, September 9, 2023 Sunday, September 10, 2023 FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 Friday Muscle Car Show & Cruise Weekly, 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 will begin at 3:00pm and the qualifications are show-quality muscle and factory-performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm and all cars registered can participate. Winter Garden Friday on the Plaza Weekly, Every Friday Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza in Winter Garden. Art After Dark at Lake Nona Weekly, Every Friday Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center from 6 pm, and it's a perfect free night out for the whole family. Enjoy a stroll through the Town Center as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while to enjoy the art displayed on the six story art installation, The Beacon. Sunset Walk Fired-up Fridays Weekly, Every Friday Friday nights, the Promenade at Sunset Walk presents Fired-Up Fridays, a free Car & Truck Show event with all makes, models, and years welcome of show car quality. Featuring music by DJ Scotty B and Company, plus the very best regional live bands. The Promenade is home to over 2 dozen restaurants, retail shops, movie theaters, and entertainment options, located just ½ mile from the intersection of State Road 429 and U.S. 192, at 3251 Margaritaville Blvd. FREE admission and parking. Little Listeners at Altamonte Library Weekly, Every Friday Experience stories brought to life at Altamonte Library with fun books, interactive rhymes and craft activities during Little Listeners Storytime every Friday at 11 a.m. Sessions are tailored for ages 3 to 5 to help foster a love of reading. Sessions run for 30 minutes. Parents must stay with child. Reservations are required. Free Bingo Night at District Eat and Play Oviedo Weekly, Every Friday Free Bingo each Friday night at District Eat and Play Oviedo Mall, Oviedo at 6pm. Movieola – Finding Nemo Friday, September 8, 2023 Enjoy a free movie at Lake Eola Park! "Fish are friends, not food"...and for that reason there will be food starting at 6pm before Movieola starts! Food trucks include: The Knot By Rollin' Dough, Mr. Freeze Ice Cream Trucks, and The Tea Lizard. ...and of course, the famous kettle corn! Nemo, an adventurous young clownfish, is unexpectedly taken from his Great Barrier Reef home to a dentist’s office aquarium. It’s up to his worrisome father Marlin and a friendly but forgetful fish Dory to bring Nemo home – meeting vegetarian sharks, surfer dude turtles, hypnotic jellyfish, hungry seagulls, and more along the way. Vegan Glow Party Friday, September 8, 2023 Main Street Market who recently moved into Market on South in the Milk District is launching a new series of Vegan Glow Parties this Friday, September 8. Due to launch last weekend, but delayed thanks to severe weather, this new family-friendly event will feature dance music, free glow sticks, free entry, and a lineup of local vegan vendors including Soulicious Vegan Kitchen, Ain’t Got No Beef, Season Greens, Burgers and Booch, and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite glow-in-the-dark party gear. Casselberry Food Trucks Friday, September 8, 2023 Held every second Friday, Casselberry Food Truck attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, tables, blankets and enjoy an incredible evening with free entertainment with food and drink. Seminole County Library Grandparents Day Storytime & Craft Friday, September 8, 2023 Celebrate the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren with stories featuring grandmas and grandpas. Then work on a special craft together with your family. No registration required. Located at North Branch, Lake Mary. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023 Saturday Special at Pioneer Village Weekly, Every Saturday Visit Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek 2491 Babb Road, Kissimmee every Saturday morning and enjoy a special activity. All materials will be provided with admission and is great for all ages. Disney Springs Kids Club Weekly, 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. Live Music on the Lawn in Lake Nona Weekly, 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 11am – 3pm every Saturday! Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise Weekly, 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 and all cars registered can participate. The Classic Car Show is free for participants and free for the public to attend. It’s the perfect outing for families of every generation, young and old, to enjoy. Show Car Saturday Night at Promenade at Sunset Walk Weekly, Every Saturday Storybook Adventures Weekly, Every Saturday Each week, begin your free Storybook Adventures tour at the St Cloud Police substation on 10th street to pick up a map that will lead you on a stroll through downtown St. Cloud. the map will take you to specific locations to glance into the storefronts of participating businesses, reading one page at a time until you complete that week’s story! On Saturday at 10 am, the host business welcomes you to meet the author and the first 20 families in attendance will receive a free book to have autographed and take photos, plus, there will be an extra treat from the host business. Cops & Bobbers Saturday, September 9, 2023 Join the Windermere Police Department on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 8am – 12pm to fish among the lakes! Bobbers aged 3-17 are invited to race minnows, fish with WPD, and win prizes! Check in will be held from 7:30-8:00am at Town Hall (520 Main Street). Baldwin Park Fall Porch Sale Saturday, September 9, 2023 The Semi-Annual Fall Porch Sale in beautiful Baldwin Park is back and the perfect place to find some treasures! RESIDENTS: You can sell your items on your front porch or join in one of the “Flea Markets” set up at Enders Park, High Park, and at Corrine Commons in front of Grace Hopper Hall. Email Suz Tapy at STapy@BaldwinParkPOA.com with your name, address and brief description of what you are selling to be added to the map. SHOPPERS: There will be some great finds – from clothes and toys to electronics and furniture. Come early and shop around! Kona Ice will also be selling their delicious, shaved ice in front of Grace Hopper Hall. Celebration’s Home Improvement Expo Saturday, September 9, 2023 Celebration’s Home Improvement Expo is returning to town this month. On Saturday, September 9th, sponsors, and vendors will be ready to display various products and services to help you with your residential renovations, upgrades, and more! From 9 a.m.-12 p.m., expo sponsors and exhibitors will be on-site to offer their expertise, including interior and exterior home product and service experts. This family-friendly event is open to Celebration residents and the public. It will be hosted outdoors, rain or shine, with kids’ activities, including a bounce house and sports inflatable, DJ with music and games, food trucks, and more. Please stop by our sponsor exhibits, including Exquisite Lawn Care, Cardinal Painting, Ziro Realty, Performance Roofing, and ColorWorx Painting, to say hello and thank you for being an essential part of this year’s event. Your friendly members from the Garden Club will be on-site to provide tips on gardening and flower projects. Representatives from the ARC and Community Standards team will be available to assist you with any questions about the ARC process and what applications you may need for your new home improvements and upgrades. Quantum Leap Winery Pop Up Market Saturday, September 9, 2023 Grab a glass of wine, cider, or beer as you shop your favorite local makers at this indoor market among the wine barrels at the Quantum Leap Winery Pop Up Market. Little Wekiva Springs Market Saturday, September 9, 2023 Shop 20+ local creatives, artists, makers and vintage vendors and enjoy a bite or two on the patio at Little Wekiva Brewery. The Commission Beer Chamber Block Party Saturday, September 9, 2023 The Commission Beer Chamber Block Party featuring DJs, Producers, MCs, Food Trucks and more. Plaid in the Park in Mt. Dora Saturday, September 9, 2023 Bring your kilt, bring your family, and immerse yourself in Scottish entertainment, food, and drink at Plaid in the Park. Virginia Drive Live Saturday, September 9, 2023 Ivanhoe Village Main Street presents Virginia Drive Live with vendors (artists, retail, food and music) are placed along Virginia Drive from Orange Avenue to Mills Avenue. Orlando Area Saturday Farmers Markets Weekly, Every Saturday The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden. 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. 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. 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. 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, SEPTEMBER 10, 2023 Free Family Fun Day at The Mennello Museum of American Art Sunday, September 10, 2023 Every second Sunday of the month is Free Family Funday! Join us at the museum for free admission, docent led tours of the galleries, and a fine art project! Art Projects are available to make or take home with you between 12 pm – 2:30 pm. The museum galleries also stay open until 4:30 p.m. for all guests. Ren Fair at The Renaissance Theatre Company Weekly, Every Sunday Renaissance Fair at The Ren, is a unique outdoor and indoor event, featuring drag shows, live music, and more. Diverse and Queer-friendly, 18+. Shops! Vendors, Artists, Crafts, Food Vendors/Trucks, Plants, Merchandise. Orlando Area Sunday Farmers Markets Weekly, 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 week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors here 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. 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. 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. Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 9 am – 2 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors. THIS & EVERY WEEKEND Disney Springs Disney Springs is a wonderful place to waste away a few hours or more, and it's free to visit, and parking is free too. Stroll through Town Center at Disney Springs to view vibrant displays from talented artists at the Art Walk, let the kids enjoy the interactive fountains, while everyone will love checking out a unique collection of stores including The Coca Cola Store, M&M's World, Lego Imagination Center and more. You can take a break at The Welcome Center with air conditioning, comfy chairs and freeice water. Enjoy the free entertainment atmultiple locations where individual musicians and bands perform in the evening, plus House of Blues frequently offers free live music at its Front Porch Bar, Raglan Road usually has free live music on their patio, and on a Saturday morning there is even a free kids club with lots of entertainment! Disney's Boardwalk Disney’s BoardWalk is gorgeous, built around a lake and is beautifully themed to be reminiscent of Cape May or Coney Island in the 1940s. It’s free to enter and fun just walking around and enjoying the atmosphere, in the evening you can enjoy street performers (jugglers, comedians, fire-eaters, jazz ensembles, etc.), and at any time of the day or nigh you can take a trip on a friendship boat! Walt Disney World Monorail Transportation You can take three different Monorail rides at Walt Disney World, all for FREE. The inner Monorail circles the three Monorail resorts, Contemporary, Polynesian and Grand Floridian. You can get off and explore each resort, or just enjoy the ride and the view, as often as you wish, altho at night you might just want to stop at the Contemporary and enjoy the spectacular view of the fireworks from the balcony, and yes its free. You can also ride the express Monorail that just goes between the Ticket and Transportation Center and the Magic Kingdom for the same view, but no stops at the resorts, although this can get very busy! The third option is the longest, and the Monorail from the Ticket and Transportation Center to Epcot is also a nice trip with great views of the resort, and you get to ride through the inside of Epcot for a great view of the park. Walt Disney World Water Transportation All of the water transportation options at Walt Disney World are free, and offer a relaxing way to enjoy the resort from the water, and is amazing day or night. Options include taking a friendship boat and cruising the loop around Crescent Lake, which visits Epcot, Boardwalk, Yacht/Beach Club, Swan/Dolphin, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios without going into the parks. Take the boat that visits the Magic Kingdom, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge and Ft. Wilderness, or the boat that visits the Polynesian, Grand Floridian and Magic Kingdom. Or another great option is the Water Taxi from Disney Springs to Port Orleans or Old Key West and back, along the Sassagoula River. Disney Skyliner Transportation You can ride the Disney Skyliner cable-car system for free, and this is a great option to get some great views of Walt Disney World from above. You can get on and off at Art of Animation/Pop Century Resorts, Caribbean Beach Resort, Riviera Resort and at Epcot and Hollywood Studios. In addition to taking a scenic ride, you can get off at one of the Skyliner resorts and take a stroll and explore for free. Universal CityWalk Universal CityWalk is a lively entertainment complex just before the entrance to Universal Studios and Islands Of Adventure, it’s FREE to enter and there is so much to do. Parking is costly during the day, but at most times of the year, parking after 6 pm is free. At CityWalk you can stroll, take in the atmosphere and simply enjoy people watching, or you can ride the free water taxi to the resorts and explore, a must do is the opera filled Italian piazza at Loews’ Portofino Bay Hotel. Back at CityWalk the kids will enjoy cooling off in the splash pad, and the adults will love the free nightly entertainment including outdoor DJ, stilt walkers and more. ICON Park Orlando Located in the heart of Orlando's International Drive, ICON Park offers attractions, dining, shoppings, entertainment and more. Not only is there a ton to see and do at ICON Park, admission to the complex is always free, plus parking is free too! It's a great place to stroll or simply sit back, relax and enjoy nightly light shows and people-watching on the central green, all without spending any money. Parks, Gardens and the Great Outdoors Orlando is blessed with an abundance of parks, gardens, and the chance to escape the tourists and enjoy the great outdoors where you'll get the chance to become one with nature. The variety of parks, gardens, nature trails, bike trails and more here in Orlando is breathtaking, get outside and enjoy! Lake Eola Park Lake Eola Park is a must visit, located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, with a sidewalk that circles the lake 0.9 miles in length, making it easy for visitors to keep track of their walking or running Relax amid beautiful flower beds and a spectacular view of Orlando’s skyline and the gorgeous Lake Eola, enjoy the swans and other birds inhabiting the park, or you can check out a free concert, movie or a play in the Walt Disney Amphitheater. Harry P Leu Gardens Explore an amazing botanical oasis nearly 50-acres minutes from Downtown Orlando. Harry P Leu Gardens features landscaped grounds and lakes, with walking trails all shaded by 200-year-old oaks and forests of camellias. Free entry days at Leu Gardens are offered on select Mondays throughout the year, check the website for details. The UCF Arboretum The Arboretum of the University of Central Florida is located on the main campus of the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, United States. Covering 80 acres, it contains more than 600 species of plants, including more than 100 bromeliads, in cultivated gardens. Lake Lotus Park Lake Lotus Park is the City of Altamonte Springs’ nature preserve. The total area is approximately 150 acres, including 120 acres of woods and wetlands. The park is a diverse, natural habitat that provides limitless natural encounters with flora and fauna. Oakland Nature Preserve West of Orlando, just 30 minutes from the attractions and nestled between Winter Garden and Clermont in the beautiful Town of Oakland, lies a "hidden gem." Oakland Nature Preserve is a150-acre preserve offering environmental education and ecotourism activities for visitors of all ages. Mead Botanical Garden With 47 acres to explore in Winter Park, your senses will come alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of the garden. Mead Botanical Garden offers hiking trails, creek, boardwalk, tall pine trees, greenhouse, butterfly garden, and pond that’s home to turtles, fish and wading birds. Kraft Azalea Garden This 5.22-acre public garden is located on the shore of Lake Maitland and is open year round from 8 a.m. until dusk. Kraft Azalea Garden is a beautiful park is shaded by enormous cypress trees that add to the old Florida charm of the 13-acre property Orlando Urban Trail The Orlando Urban Trail is located near Downtown Orlando and is considered the spine of Orlando’s trail network. The trail is approximately three miles long and runs from Lake Highland through Loch Haven Park, to Mead Garden in Winter Park. Highlights include connections to six lakes, Orlando Cultural Park, and the Gaston Edwards Trail. West Orange Trail The West Orange Trail is a 22-mile long multi-use rail trail. The paved trail passes through downtown Oakland, Winter Garden, and Apopka with most of its length built on old railroad alignments. Lake Nona Sculpture Garden The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is a 50,000 square-foot outdoor space designed for the exploration and discovery of a distinguished selection of sculptures from one of the world’s largest private art collections, The Lewis Collection. Orlando Wetlands Park The Orlando Wetlands Park is a man-made wetland designed to provide advanced treatment for reclaimed water from the City of Orlando and other local cities. The Park is 1650 acres in size and located in Christmas, Florida. Visitors can visit the Park seven days a week, between sunrise and sunset, to enjoy primitive and passive activities including, Photography, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding, and Guided Tours Cranes Roost Park Cranes Roost Park is at the heart of Uptown Altamonte surrounding Cranes Roost Lake. The lake is encircled by one mile of continuous walkway with benches and covered seating areas. Within the 45-acre park is a European-style plaza including a choreographed fountain show, a 62-foot picturesque tower and the Eddie Rose Amphitheater which features stadium-style seating and a one-of-a-kind floating stage. The Seminole Wekiva Trail The nearly 14 mile Seminole Wekiva Trail is a paved recreational trail that has been designated as one of Seminole County's Showcase Trails because of its length, beauty, and accommodation of many users. The section of the trail that runs west of the I-4 trail overpass to the County line at the Wekiva River is also a designated part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Dr. P. Phillips Community Park Dr. P. Phillips Community Park provides a range of amenities for the whole family to enjoy, including playgrounds, splash pad, plus sports fields, picnic areas & a dog run Wekiva Island Central Florida’s favorite watering hole Wekiva Island. Located just north of Orlando, Wekiva Island offers visitors the chance to experience the incredible natural springs in Florida. Explore the pristine Wekiva River and its fascinating Florida wildlife with more than 2,000 square feet of Island fun. Artlando Grab a map from the DT Orlando Information Center and go on a self-guided tour of downtown Orlando's streets to discover the contemporary sculptures which are Art Orlando. Not only will you get to know Downtown as you walk around, you’ll be seriously impressed by these stunning works of art. Orlando Murals Take a walk through downtown Orlando, and you’ll discover art in unexpected places, including larger-than-life butterflies, a vintage Orlando postcard, hanging gardens, even a parking garage covered with murals, and the latest downtown mural, Unbelievable Real! East End Market The East End Market is a neighborhood market & food hall in the Audubon Park Garden District of Orlando featuring a vast array of artisanal vendors in one marketplace, from bakers to pasta makers to coffee roasters. Church Street Station The unofficial centre of Downtown Orlando, Church Street really is the place to go for first-timers wanting to get to know the city a little better. It’s home to some of the city’s best restaurants, a bustling nightlife scene and the iconic Railroad Depot (that now sits alongside the newly-built ‘SunRail’). For more than 100 years, Church Street has been the heart of downtown Orlando. The revitalized Church Street Station continues this tradition, offering an eclectic mix of dining, entertainment, retail and business for locals and tourists alike. Discover several clubs, theatres, shopping dining and more! Plus, check out the iconic ad historic Railroad Depot, that sits alongside the modern SunRail station. Celebration Town Center Travel back in time to find the town of Celebration in Kissimmee, a planned community originally developed by the Walt Disney Company. This is a pedestrian-friendly, wonderful small town where you can explore the old-fashioned downtown, including Market Street, and Lakeside Promenade, or you can enjoy the miles of walking paths and nature trails. On Market Street there is various events throughout the year including craft festivals, antique car shows, and a wonderful holiday event where it snows on Market Street every night. Check out the events calendar for more details. Old Orlando Mixing architecture and history is a great way to spend the day and learn more about downtown Orlando with a self-guided Historic Districts Walking Tour. You’ll learn about structures that were designed and built when horses were still clopping along Church Street and see how they’ve been adapted for modern uses. The Downtown Orlando Historic District Self-Guided Walking Tour gives you the opportunity to experience Orlando history first hand. This self-guided walking tour is available online. Thornton Park Just east of the central Lake Eola, you’ll find this cool and quiet neighbourhood that really feels like you’ve escaped the city for an out-of-town suburb. This charming neighborhood is home to some of Orlando's best restaurants, hip cafés, cool galleries and a few bistros, all set around some ever-so-quaint old cobbled streets. Well worth a few hours to stretch your legs and take in the sights and sounds of Thornton Park. Campus Tour At Rollins College From the sparkling waters of Lake Virginia to the energy of the residential halls, Rollins College’s 80-acre campus really has to be seen to be believed. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the campus by booking a spot on one of the daily campus tours or by signing up for one of the special on-campus events Dinky Dock Spend a day at the beach in Winter Park. Dinky Dock is a 1.56-acre year-round park and offers a fishing pier and boat ram.Yes there is a beach and swimming is permitted. Winter Park The Orange County city of Winter Park, situated north of Orlando, was once considered a winter resort. Today, the arts- and culture-filled city of Winter Park includes Rollins College and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art. Winter Park is also is a nature lover's destination. In Winter Park you'ill find more than 70 parks, all home to various events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year, plus don't miss the dining, shopping, the arts and more in the Park Avenue District. Winter Garden Nestled on beautiful Lake Apopka about 20 minutes west of Orlando, this former citrus town established in 1908 is known for its many recreational amenities, events and historical assets. Winter Garden is home to the Garden Theatre, the SoBo Gallery and Art Center, several museums and the Downtown Pavilion, which is home to the Winter Garden Farmers Market that is held every Saturday morning. Whatever You Do This Weekend, Have An Awesome Time! For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site.

Welcome to another weekend of things to do here in Orlando, as always, we've selected the best events that are taking place throughout the weekend. Enjoy! The Best Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend! Multi-Day Events Friday, September 8, 2023 Saturday, September 9, 2023 Sunday, September 10, 2023 MULTI-DAY EVENTS The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Now - November 18, 2023 The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is dishing up delights at Walt Disney World Resort now through until November 18, 2023. Get ready to sip and savor at more than 25 Global Marketplaces throughout EPCOT, including returning favorites such as The Fry Basket, Flavors from Fire, Canada, India and Spain. Several new Global Marketplaces will open later during the festival as summer turns to fall. The festival has also welcomed back the popular Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare at America Gardens Theatre. And don’t forget to commemorate your EPCOT visit by bringing festival magic home with official event merchandise including apparel, home décor, trading pins and more. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Select Nights, Now - November 1, 2023 Get ready for a spooktacular celebration with plenty of tricks and treats at this year's Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, happening now through November 1, 2023. Enjoy spellbinding entertainment including shows, a parade, fireworks, Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best, and so much more. This limited-capacity, nighttime event starts at 7 pm and allows guests to experience shorter wait times on attractions, themed food and beverage and more Halloween Horror Nights At Universal Orlando Resort Select Nights Now - November 4, 2023 Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) at Universal Orlando Resort is huge, its one of the biggest Halloween events in Florida, and features horror of all genres, from cinematic greats and crazed cult favorites to the park’s original abominations, and each year the legend grows and the experience reaches beyond your wildest nightmares. Halloween Horror Nights 32 includes 10 terrifying haunted houses, 5 sinister scare zones and live entertainment. This year's haunted houses include The Exorcist: Believer, Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count, Universal Monsters: Unmasked, Stranger Things 4, and The Last of Us.. Visit Orlando Magical Dining Now - October 1, 2023 Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is back, celebrating Orlando's eateries, now in its 18th year, locals and visitors alike love this event, which is on now through Oct. 1, 2023, offering 6 full weeks and 45 delicious days of amazing food at a bargain price! With more than 115 of Orlando’s best restaurants serving up three-course prix-fixe menus for either $40 or $60, as part of a new tiered menu system, Magical Dining is a great way to get out and explore Orlando's vibrant dining scene and discover new favorites for a really great price. This year’s roster brings 16 new restaurants to the dining program, as well as seven restaurants recognized by the MICHELIN Guide. Visit Orlando’s Magical Nights is also back, encouraging diners to turn their night on the town into an affordable, end-of-the-summer Orlando staycation with special savings and offers. The Comedy of Errors September 6 - October 1, 2023 Orlando Shakes presents The Comedy of Errors. Set during the revelries of Mardi Gras and featuring New Orleans Jazz, Zydeco and Delta Blues music, Shakespeare’s non-stop hilarious farce of love, mistaken identity, and two sets of twins separated as babies - gets swept up in the carnival celebrations. Bring your Mardi Gras beads and let the good times roll! The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System Friday, Saturday & Sundays, Now - October 8, 2023 When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic interplanetary field trip! But when rivalries both old and new threaten to tear the students apart, our young heroes must learn to pull together or risk getting forever lost in the solar system. Hop on the Magic School Bus for a ride in this new musical adaptation based on the original book series published by Scholastic. Presented by TheaterWorksUSA. at Orlando Family Stage. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: In Concert September 7 - September 8, 2023 Central Florida Community Arts is busy preparing for their ground-breaking production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: In Concert, a performance that is set to bring together a full choir, orchestra, and acting company, and phenomenal singers from across the region. The performance will include members from all areas of CFCArts, including performers for Narrators and UpBeat! From little kids to older adults, people with disabilities, exceptionalities, and from all backgrounds will see themselves represented on stage. Tickets are priced from $10 each, and are selling fast, click here for more details. Howl-O-Scream At Busch Gardens Tampa Select Nights, September 8 - October 31, 2023 Tampa’s premier Halloween event returns earlier than ever with new frights & scares taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows and more. Until October 31st, unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level and once you’re in there’s nothing to fear but everything. Haunted houses include fan favorite, The Residence: Home For The Holidays, plus Ms. Stranglewood is back for more haunts this spooky season, year, and has something sinister waiting behind every corner. plus, new this year is D.H. Baggums, Circus of Fear. This year's scare zone's include the all new Big Ed's Demolition Derby, which features a rather sinister Big Ed, and Sin City Zombies, another brand new scare zone for 2023. Howl-O-Scream At SeaWorld Orlando Select Nights, September 8 - October 31, 2023 Howl-O-Scream resurfaces at SeaWorld Orlando and this year you will have nowhere to hide. Howl-O-Scream has washed ashore, and this time, the fear is everywhere. Returning for its third year on September 8, Howl-O-Scream runs select nights through October 31, and this year Howl-O-Scream isn’t just back at SeaWorld. It’s bigger and better than ever with ALL-NEW terrors. Evade angry haunts as they rampage through scare zones. Seek shelter indoors, only to find you’ve entered a house of horrors. Deepen the thrill with nighttime coaster rides. Quench your thirst for fear at a fiendishly interactive bar. And feel the monstrous electricity of three live shows. Scream-A-Geddon September 8 - November 4, 2023 If you go down to the woods this spooky season your in for a horrific surprise... Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City is BACK! Spread across 20 acres in a remote corner of Pasco County, the scariest of horror parks, Scream-A-Geddon Horror Park has five haunted houses, a zombie paintball fight and monsters who can and will grab you! Scream-A-Geddon is only a miserable 1 hour, 30 minute drive from Orlando, and it is so worth it, if you dare.... This years event features the all new haunted house, Breach. Enter if you dare, but you may never come out, plus returning this year is fan favorite's, Rage 3D, Floodwater Bayou, Ravenhill Asylum, Demon's Revenge, and of course it wouldn't be Scream-A-Geddon without Zombie Paintball Assault!! The event also features Monster Midway with food, beer, and games, and Bono's Beer Garden. Every Brilliant Thing September 8 - September 23, 2023 The incredible John O'Hurley will take the stage at the Garden Theatre beginning September 8 in the one-man play, Every Brilliant Thing. You may know him from Seinfeld as J. Peterman, or from Dancing with the Stars, or you may have read one of his books. The multi-talented actor, author, composer, and game show host brings a moving, insightful, and hilarious story to the Garden. Every Brilliant Thing is one-person play leading audiences through a remarkable journey that truly examines what makes life worth living, and the power of theatre to bring people together. Find out more by visiting: gardentheatre.org/shows. Gaylord Palms Goblins & Giggles Weekends September 9 - October 29, 2023 Bewitching thrills, chills and laughter will once again fill fall weekends as guests are treated to family-friendly Halloween fun beginning Sept. 9, 2023, when Gaylord Palms Resort kicks off its annual Goblins & Giggles Weekends celebration. The much loved event which runs through Oct. 29, will feature live shows, interactive events, dance and costume parties, character experiences, spooky animal encounters, a themed scavenger hunt and escape room, and plenty of sweet treats. Plus this year, Gaylord Palms Resort is offering two “Fall Into Family Fun” hotel packages with features like free resort credit, premium guest room views, and tickets to popular Goblins & Giggles Weekends events. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular Select Days, September 9 - October 31, 2023 At Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular, from September 9 to October 31, guests will step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training! Every Saturday and Sunday, plus Monday Oct. 30 & Tuesday Oct. 31, this event takes place during regular park hours, and is included with park entry. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular will be casting magical spells, from 12 – 4 pm at the Festival Walkway. A costume parade, story time and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience. Duel of Fools at SAK Comedy Lab Weekly, 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. The actors make up songs, scenes and characters right in front of your eyes with the help of the audience’s suggestions and participation. Appropriate for all ages. 7 pm. King Of The Hill at SAK Comedy Lab Weekly, 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. After each round, the audience decides which team wins and which team loses. The winning team stays for the next round while the losers form new teams to dethrone the Kings. By the end there can only be one King of the Hill! 9 pm. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 Art After Dark at Lake Nona Weekly, Every Friday Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center from 6 pm. Enjoy a stroll through our Town Center as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while to enjoy the art displayed on the six story art installation, The Beacon. Sunset Walk Fired-up Fridays Weekly, Every Friday Friday nights, the Promenade at Sunset Walk presents Fired-Up Fridays, a free Car & Truck Show event with all makes, models, and years welcome of show car quality. Featuring music by DJ Scotty B and Company, plus the very best regional live bands. Winter Garden Friday on the Plaza Weekly, Every Friday Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza, at Downtown Winter Garden, Centennial Plaza Gazebo. Friday Muscle Car Show & Cruise Weekly, 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 will begin at 3:00pm and the qualifications are show-quality muscle and factory-performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm and all cars registered can participate. Sense Fail Friday, September 8, 2023 Sense Fail comes to House of Blues Orlando. Get your tickets now! Felicity With Sink In and Miramar Drive Friday, September 8, 2023 Montgomery Drive Presents FELICITY, Sink In, and Miramar Drive at Will's Pub. Stuff You Should Know Friday, September 8, 2023 Stuff You Should Know is the award-winning podcast hosted by Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark and produced by the venerable website HowStuffWorks. Catch them at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts - Steinmetz Hall Swiftie Set at Howl at the Moon Orlando Friday, September 8, 2023 Head to Howl at the Moon Orlando for a Taylor Swift inspired Howl at the Moon show. Vegan Glow Party Friday, September 8, 2023 Main Street Market who recently moved into Market on South in the Milk District is launching a new series of Vegan Glow Parties this Friday, September 8. Due to launch last weekend, but delayed thanks to severe weather, this new family-friendly event will feature dance music, free glow sticks, free entry, and a lineup of local vegan vendors including Soulicious Vegan Kitchen, Ain’t Got No Beef, Season Greens, Burgers and Booch, and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite glow-in-the-dark party gear. Casselberry Food Trucks Friday, September 8, 2023 Held every second Friday, Casselberry Food Truck attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, tables, blankets and enjoy an incredible evening with free entertainment with food and drink. Movieola – Finding Nemo Friday, September 8, 2023 Enjoy a free movie at Lake Eola Park! "Fish are friends, not food"...and for that reason there will be food starting at 6pm before Movieola starts! Food trucks include: The Knot By Rollin' Dough, Mr. Freeze Ice Cream Trucks, and The Tea Lizard. ...and of course, the famous kettle corn! Nemo, an adventurous young clownfish, is unexpectedly taken from his Great Barrier Reef home to a dentist’s office aquarium. It’s up to his worrisome father Marlin and a friendly but forgetful fish Dory to bring Nemo home – meeting vegetarian sharks, surfer dude turtles, hypnotic jellyfish, hungry seagulls, and more along the way. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023 Disney Springs Kids Club Weekly, 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. Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise Weekly, 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. Live Music on the Lawn in Lake Nona Weekly, 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! Show Car Saturday Nights at Promenade at Sunset Walk Weekly, 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. Jazz'n Blues Concert at Harry P. Leu Gardens Saturday, September 9, 2023 Get ready for an amazing evening of jazz, blues and a little bit of everything in between from some of the most popular bands in Central Florida at Leu Gardens. Pack a picnic of your favorite foods and bring seating, alcohol is permitted. Kamelot: Awaken the World Tour w/Battle Beast & Xandria Saturday, September 9, 2023 Kamelot: Awaken the World Tour comes to Hard Rock Live Orlando. Tickets on sale now! Bassrush Presents Ray Volpe: Volpetron Ascends Tour Saturday, September 9, 2023 Ray Volpe: Volpetron Ascends Tour comes to The Vanguard in downtown Orlando. Get your tickets now! 18+ Opera Orlando, Mexico Canta at Orlando Museum of Art Saturday, September 9, 2023 Enjoy an evening of Mexican art and culture with a special performance by Mexican-American soprano Cecilia Violetta López, who will appear as Frida Kahlo in Opera Orlando's MainStage production of the opera Frida. Mexican inspired cuisine and Margaritas included in ticket price thanks to Frontera Cocina Mexicana. Get details now. Zig Zag, Problem Child, Coffee Stain & Super B***h Saturday, September 9, 2023 Zig Zag, Problem Child, Coffee Stain, and Super B***h perform LIVE at Will's Pub on September 9. Get tickets now. Quantum Leap Winery Pop Up Market Saturday, September 9, 2023 Grab a glass of wine, cider, or beer as you shop your favorite local makers at this indoor market among the wine barrels at the Quantum Leap Winery Pop Up Market. Little Wekiva Springs Market Saturday, September 9, 2023 Shop 20+ local creatives, artists, makers and vintage vendors and enjoy a bite or two on the patio at Little Wekiva Brewery. The Commission Beer Chamber Block Party Saturday, September 9, 2023 The Commission Beer Chamber Block Party featuring DJs, Producers, MCs, Food Trucks and more. Virginia Drive Live Saturday, September 9, 2023 Ivanhoe Village Main Street presents Virginia Drive Live with vendors (artists, retail, food and music) are placed along Virginia Drive from Orange Avenue to Mills Avenue. Battle of the Bands 5k Run Saturday, September 9, 2023 The City of Casselberry will host the exciting Track Shack Battle of the Bands 5K on Saturday, September 9, 2023. The race includes live music for runners and walkers along a 3.1-mile flat route that starts and finishes at Casselberry’s Lake Concord Park, next to City Hall. All participants receive a rockin' commemorative T-shirt and enjoy the post-race “Craft Beer Fest” where runners/walkers 21 and up can sample beer. At the end of the race, runners/walkers are invited to vote in the “Battle of the Bands” competition for the best band along the race route and all kids can run in the free Kids’ Run. Elite Tuner Florida Season Closer Saturday, September 9, 2023 Elite Tuner is back in Orlando for the Florida Season Closer Car Show, bringing hundreds of the hottest cars to Dezerland Action Park for the close of their 2023 tour. The event will feature an indoor car show, where vehicles will be judged for awards and prizes, live DJs, giveaways and more. Tickets for the event start at $20 and can be purchased here. Orlando Area Saturday Farmers Markets Weekly, Every Saturday The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden. 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. 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. 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. 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, SEPTEMBER 10, 2023 Daniel Caesar: Superpowers World Tour Sunday, September 10, 2023 Daniel Caesar: Superpowers World Tour comes to Hard Rock Live Orlando. Tickets on sale now! 0 Miles Per Hour, Cathedral Bells, Smelter & Eyelash Sunday, September 10, 2023 Montgomery Drive Presents 0 Miles Per Hour, Cathedral Bells, Smelter, and Eyelash. Live at Will's Pub. Get tickets now. FilmSlam x OMA 2023 Sunday, September 10, 2023 Florida's original FILMSLAM is back each month at Orlando Museum of Art! FilmSlam hosts a monthly, in-person screening series featuring the works of Florida's independent short filmmakers. Free Family Fun Day at The Mennello Museum of American Art Sunday, September 10, 2023 Every second Sunday of the month is Free Family Funday! Join us at the museum for free admission, docent led tours of the galleries, and a fine art project! Art Projects are available to make or take home with you between 12 pm – 2:30 pm. The museum galleries also stay open until 4:30 p.m. for all guests. Ren Fair at The Renaissance Theatre Company Weekly, Every Sunday Renaissance Fair at The Ren, is a unique outdoor and indoor event, featuring drag shows, live music, and more. Diverse and Queer-friendly, 18+. Shops! Vendors, Artists, Crafts, Food Vendors/Trucks, Plants, Merchandise. Orlando Area Sunday Farmers Markets Weekly, 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 week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors here 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. 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. 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. Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 9 am – 2 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors Whatever You Decide To Do, Have A Great Weekend! For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site.

Hamburger Mary's Orlando is hosting a Charity Bingo night for this year's Come Out with Pride Parade, citing a decrease in funding due to the current political climate in Florida. Hamburger Mary's Orlando is hosting a Charity Bingo Night on Tuesday, September 12, to raise funds for Orlando's annual Come Out with Pride Parade, on Saturday, October 21. Hamburger Mary's say that due to the current political climate in Florida, many sponsors of the event have backed out. In a Facebook post, Hamburger Mary's Orlando commented, 'many long term sponsors of the parade are in fear of retaliation from the "right" as we have seen with the Bud Light boycott and have pulled or limited their support." Now due to the lack of support, the Come Out with Pride Parade committee needs funds to make this annual event as great as it always is. The fundraiser promises to be a fun-filled night with hostess, Trixie Deluxxe. with 10 game packet of cards just $10! There will also be a 50/50 drawing with a chance to win cash. Reserve your table at 321-319-0600 Can't make it but want to help? You can donate directly to Come Out With Pride, www.givebutter.com/unified-by-pride. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

The eco-friendly and fashionable footwear brand Rothy's is opening a new store within Disney Springs later this year. Rothy’s, which introduced its shoes in 2016 and is based in San Francisco, is known for its eco-friendly, and fashionable ballet flats, is set to open a brand new retail location at Disney Springs within Walt Disney World. The new store will open later this year in the Town Center neighborhood of Disney Springs. Rothy’s who sell direct to customers via their own stores, and online, will sell their complete range of washable, and sustainably-crafted shoes, bags, and accessories. Rothy's uses thread made from plastic bottles to knit its items, and 3D knits its shoes and handbags to shape, cutting waste. As of 2022, over 100 million plastic bottles have been repurposed to make their products. Additionally, Rothy’s has recycled over 20,000 pairs of shoes. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra to live-score Tim Burton’s 1989 classic, Batman for two special performances in early 2024. Only One Will Claim the Night. The Dark Knight of Gotham City™begins his war on crime with his first major enemy being Jack Napier, a criminal who becomes a clownishly homicidal villain known as The Joker. ... To celebrate the 35th anniversary of the release of the 1989 movie, Batman, the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra will perform the iconic soundtrack, as the movie is played on the big screen within Steinmetz Hall at downtown's Dr Phillips Center. The special performance will take place on March 9, 2024, with performances at 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm. Tickets are available now for both performances. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

The Residency Festival is coming to Orlando's Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts this October, featuring artists such as Diana Ross and Beck performing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts has announced The Residency Festival, featuring the return of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, London and a cross-section of the world’s most impressive artists creating six one-of-a-kind concert experiences. The success of the Center’s sold-out Grand Celebration which marked the opening of Steinmetz Hall led to the creation of The Residency Festival. Returning to conduct the Royal Philharmonic is Edwin Outwater. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world’s most impressive artists as you’ve never seen them before. Over six nights of spectacular entertainment, audiences will be treated to performances featuring The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra who will be joined each night by a different artist including Diana Ross, Harry Connick Jr, Beck and more. The Residency Festival will now be an annual event, with Dr. Phillips Center the only performing arts center in North America with such a residency. Here is the full line-up for this year's festival: October 3 | Birmingham Royal Ballet October 4 | Beck October 5 | Harry Connick Jr October 6 | A Legacy Evening with Diana Ross October 7 | Broadway Royalty with Sutton Foster, Brian Stokes Mitchell October 8 | Bach Festival Society of Winter Park Choir Tickets are on sale now. To celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime roster of artists, The Residency Festival will include a Gala dinner on October 5 prior to Harry Connick Jr.’s performance with the Orchestra. Pre-show dining events will also be available for guests before the other performances. Another highlight of The Residency during the October 8 performance by the Royal Philharmonic and The Bach Festival Choir will include a tribute to HM King Charles III in the year of his coronation featuring two pieces Handel Zadok The Priest and a Dr. Phillips Center commissioned orchestration of Tarik O’Regan’s Coronation Agnus Day, both of which were performed by members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as part of the coronation service at Westminster Abbey in May 2023. The performance will mark the world premiere of the orchestration. This eclectic roster of prominent artists will take center stage at the famed Steinmetz Hall. In addition to being one of the world's most remarkably acoustic spaces, the multi-form venue is also one of the very few theaters in the world that can transform in shape, seating and sound to accommodate a variety of art forms and events. Since January 2022, the biggest names in music and dance have graced its stage from Jennifer Hudson to the National Ballet of Ukraine, and more. Steinmetz Hall also ranked on Architecture Digest’s list of “The 11 Most Beautiful Theaters in the World” alongside storied venues such as Australia’s Sydney Opera House and the Opéra Garnier in Paris. “Creating and producing this festival is another way to globally expand our vision of Arts for Every Life ®,” says Kathy Ramsberger, President & CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “Pairing one of the world’s greatest orchestras with popular artists, this festival gives Orlando’s visitors and our hometown guests a chance to hear their music in unexpected ways in Steinmetz Hall.” “The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is proud to be returning this October to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for a unique Residency that truly reflects the diverse spectrum of orchestral music,” says James Williams, Managing Director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. “From the legendary musical worlds of Diana Ross, Beck and Harry Connick Jr, through to the exquisite beauty of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s dancers, the RPO’s 85 musicians will be bringing alive the world-class acoustics of the Steinmetz Hall to create exclusive musical experiences. We look forward with great anticipation to our forthcoming Residency and to reconnecting with Orlando’s audiences.” With such a talented and diverse lineup of internationally recognized performers, The Residency Festival promises to attract international, national and local visitors. Tickets go on sale Monday, September 11 at noon ET. Visit drphillipscenter.org for more information. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Everyone’s favorite purple dragon has arrived at EPCOT! That’s right, Figment is now greeting guests in the Imagination! pavilion. Whether you’re a fan of Figment's mischievous personality or you aspire to dream as big as he does, you’ll be able to share it all when you meet him in the Imagination! pavilion at EPCOT. You can meet Figment every day between 10am - 1:30pm, and 2:30pm - 5pm. Figment began meeting guests today, Sunday, September 10 at EPCOT and he drew quiet the crowd, with probably the largest crowd in a long time at the Imagination! pavilion, with wait times of 5 hours and upwards to meet him! The line was so long today that it was closed for the day at around 3 pm. Now that the moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived, let’s see just how much you know about one of our favorite EPCOT icons. Here are five Figment fun facts! Did you know Figment has been around since EPCOT first opened at Walt Disney World Resort back in 1982? He made his debut as a childlike dreamer who embodies creativity and imagination in the original attraction, Journey Into Imagination. A creature as fantastical as Figment has to have an amazing origin story! Did you know the story of this unique dragon comes from ancient mythology? While stories about these mythical creatures come from all over the world, they all tend to have one thing in common: Dragons embody physical traits from many other creatures and beasts. You may remember the Dreamfinder from the original attraction, Journey Into Imagination. Did you know this character actually started as Professor Marvel? Back in the 1970s, a proposed Disneyland attraction would have featured a panoramic showcase of curiosities and marvels of our world hosted by two brand new characters: Professor Marvel and his impish little sidekick – a yet-to-be-named dragon. For forty years, the delightful dragon has shown us how exciting it is to explore the world with our five senses – and our imaginations. Did you know he was the star of his own educational series? In 1988, Figment was introduced in school classrooms to teach students Language Arts Through Imagination. Originally, Figment was going to be green! Can you imagine this unique dragon with the body of a lizard, the nose of a crocodile and the horns of a steer in any other color than bright purple? For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

New adorable tFigment Merchandise is now available in EPCOT to celebrate opening of the brand new Figment Meet & Greet. Figment has arrived in EPCOT, and to celebrate the new meet and greet location, Walt Disney World have revealed new Figment merch, with fun new pieces to add to your collection. The iconic purple and orange color combination is featured heavily in an all-new merchandise collection that proves imagination works best when it’s set free From an out-of-this-world hoodie to soft, stretchy leggings and everything in between, “a dream can be a dream come true” with dreamy new apparel items in store for you. Whether you’re a fan of Figment's mischievous personality or you aspire to dream as big as he does, you’ll be able to share it all when you meet him in the Imagination! pavilion at EPCOT. You can meet Figment every day between 10am - 1:30pm, and 2:30pm - 5pm. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

The first night to sell out for the every popular after hours event at Magic Kingdom, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is opening night! A highlight event of the holidays at Walt Disney World, is the after hours event, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party which returns to Magic Kingdom Park on select nights from November 9 until December 22. The tickets have been on sale for awhile now, but the first date to sell out has now happened, with opening night, November 9, now sold out. Ticket prices will range from $159-$199 per person. The party dates are: November: 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22, 26, 28, 30 December: 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22 Walt Disney World have confirmed that festive favorites like the Christmas extravaganza stage show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration,” the sparkling spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the merry must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” will all be returning to this years evet. Guests can also look forward to enjoying some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which will use a virtual queue during the event. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

It has just been revealed that Soarin’ Over California will return to EPCOT at Walt Disney World. Starting September 22, Soarin’ Over California will return to EPCOT for a limited time in honor of Disney 100. The surprise announcement was made during today’s “EPCOT: Always in a State of Becoming” panel at Destination D23. Let’s see – anything else? Oh yeah, have a nice flight!!! For the latest news and information from Orlando and throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, of the best of Orlando.

Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro announced at the biggest Disney fan event of the year, Destination D23 that World Celebration at EPCOT will open in time for the holidays! At Destination D23,it has been revealed that World Celebration at EPCOT will open to all guests this December. World Celebration will unite the front of the park, tying together the other two new EPCOT neighborhoods, World Discovery and World Nature. The completion of the last of the park’s three neighborhoods will be the latest major milestone multi-year transformation of EPCOT. Read on for all that's coming to World Celebration at EPCOT: World Celebration Fall will also see completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature different gardens that change with the seasons. Dreamers Point It is also where guests will discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.” CommuniCore Hall When CommuniCore Hall opens in World Celebration later this year, it will be the center of festival programming throughout the park. In new renderings, you can see this will be home to a new character greeting location called Mickey & Friends. You’ll be able to meet Mickey Mouse and some of his best pals in this colorful space. Also located in the World Celebration neighborhood, CommuniCore Hall will be the home of a dynamic exhibition space that will transform with each festival throughout the year, as you can see here in one possibility imagined for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Playing with light, shapes and reflections, the architecture of this building was designed by Walt Disney Imagineering to celebrate the legacy of EPCOT and the original CommuniCore buildings. New Nighttime Spectacular Plus, a new nighttime spectacular will debut at EPCOT on December 5, inviting everyone to gather around World Showcase Lagoon for a show that will unite us through commonalities of the heart in a dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different Destination D23 is taking place at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. The event brings together Disney fans to celebrate beloved moments and memories with behind-the-scenes stories, and special guests, performances, panels, exhibits, and mod course merchandise! For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site