Orlando in October is a vibrant and exciting place to be, offering a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests, whether you're a local or a tourist. Here are some fun and unique things to do in Orlando, including events happening this week and popular attractions.
### Halloween and Fall Festivals
This time of year is perfect for embracing the Halloween spirit and enjoying fall festivities. One of the standout events is **Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party** at Magic Kingdom Park, which features the Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show, and the Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular nighttime extravaganza. This event is scheduled for various dates in October, including October 19 and 20.
For a more family-friendly Halloween experience, **SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular** is a great option, offering trick-or-treating, Penelope’s Garden Party, and a Halloween Dance Party. This event runs on select dates through November 3.
**LEGOLAND Florida Resort's Brick-or-Treat** is another must-visit, featuring LEGO ghost building, a scavenger hunt, costume contests, and a fireworks finale. This event takes place on select Saturdays and Sundays through October 27.
### Cultural and Artistic Experiences
For those interested in art and culture, the **Winter Park Autumn Art Festival** is a highlight, showcasing local artists and their work. Although the main festival dates may have passed, the area remains vibrant with artistic activities throughout the month.
**Happy Frights at Harry P. Leu Gardens** offers a unique blend of Halloween fun and cultural experience. This event features family-friendly activities and spooky delights, taking place on various dates in October.
### Outdoor Adventures
Orlando is not just about theme parks; it also offers plenty of outdoor adventures. **Southern Hill Farms** hosts a fall festival with activities like pumpkin patches, hayrides, and a corn maze. This festival runs through November 24.
For nature lovers, **Blue Spring State Park** is a hidden gem where you can see manatees during the cooler months. It's a great place for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Central Florida.
### Music and Sports
Music enthusiasts can look forward to the **Yandel Tour 2024** at the Kia Center on October 13, or the **Country Thunder Florida 2024** festival at Osceola Heritage Park from October 18-20, featuring a lineup of top country music performers.
Sports fans can catch a game or event at various venues. While there might not be specific major sports events this week, the **Orlando Magic** and **Orlando City SC** often have games scheduled, so it's worth checking their calendars.
### Food Experiences
Orlando is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of culinary experiences. The **Epcot Food and Wine Festival**, running through the fall season, offers a global culinary journey with various food and wine stations around the park.
For a traditional German experience, head to **Celebration’s Oktoberfest** on October 18-19, where you can enjoy live music, hayrides, and authentic German cuisine.
### Local Festivals and Fairs
This weekend, the **Clermont Harvest Festival** on October 19 is a great place to visit, featuring a pumpkin patch, kidzone, live music, and vendors selling homemade and handmade goods.
The **Lukas Nursery Fall Festival** in Oviedo, happening on October 19-20, offers fresh-cooked Greek food, live performances, and marketplace shopping, making it a fun event for the whole family.
### Hidden Gems
One of the lesser-known but delightful spots is the **Crayola Experience Orlando**, where you can explore a world of color and creativity. This interactive attraction allows you to make your own crayons and enjoy various art activities.
For a unique outdoor experience, visit the **Audubon Center for Birds of Prey**, which offers bird encounters and educational programs. It's a great place to learn about and appreciate local wildlife.
In summary, Orlando in October is a city buzzing with activity, from Halloween festivities and fall festivals to cultural events, outdoor adventures, and delicious food experiences. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
