What’s Happening in Orlando This Weekend for Kids – Events and More!
You may be looking for family-friendly events in Orlando and things to do, and we’re sharing it all.
Featured Events & Deals
Giving the following events an extra shout-out since their support helps us provide this amazing weekend guide to you for free!
Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts & Goblins
- Dates: Weekends from Now through October 25, 2026
- Location: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837
Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts & Goblins returns for its 8th year of family-friendly Halloween fun! Enjoy the all-new Swamp Ghost’s Museum, meet Skunk Ape and Eddie the Yeti, hunt for legendary creatures aboard the Cryptid Express, visit Frank N’ Steins Oktoberfest, and brave the Gatorland Graveyard. Plus, enjoy animal encounters, live entertainment, a DJ, specialty vendors, games, candy giveaways, photo ops, and a Children’s Costume Parade. Select weekends October 10–25 and included with regular park admission!
SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular
- Dates: Select dates, now through November 1, 2026
- Location: SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is transforming into the ultimate Halloween destination for families as Halloween Spooktacular returns on select dates! This daytime event invites children and families to dress up, explore an immersive trick-or-treat trail, and enjoy Halloween fun designed for all ages.
What’s more, this year guests can enjoy interacting with the beloved characters from Sony Pictures Animation’s “Hotel Transylvania” as they make their debut at SeaWorld Orlando’s signature family Halloween celebration. Featuring immersive character experiences, themed entertainment, and magical moments that bring the beloved monster-filled world from the big screen to life. Included with park admission.
6th Annual Fall Festival at Amber Brooke Farms
- Dates: Now through November 22, 2026
- Location: 36111 County Road 44A, Eustis 32736
Celebrate the season at Amber Brooke Farms’ 6th Annual Fall Festival! Kids will love the jump pillows, barrel train, tractor ride, playgrounds, bubble barn and other farm-fun activities. Enjoy apple cider donuts, smash burgers, seasonal drinks and tasty food-truck favorites while soaking up a perfect fall day on the farm. Select activities and food are available for an additional fee. Purchase tickets online in advance for the best price!
Fall Family Fun at Grande Lakes
- Dates: Now through November 26, 2026
- Location: 4040 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando 32837
Anchored by The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott, this 500-acre oasis invites guests to savor the season through exceptional culinary experiences, including Savor September, Magical Dining, and lavish Thanksgiving buffets. Families can embrace the spirit of fall at the annual Fall Festival, featuring activities for all ages, highlighted by an exclusive live-fire culinary experience with renowned pitmaster Jack Arnold.
As the holiday season approaches, the beloved Christmas Market returns with festive traditions and magical moments, including ice skating, fireside experiences, gingerbread house decorating, cookies with Santa, and more opportunities to create lasting memories together.
Free Admission to SeaWorld Orlando for Florida Teachers through 2027
- Dates: Now through September 2, 2027
- Location: SeaWorld Orlando
Florida Certified K-12 Teachers Can Enjoy Unlimited Visits with the SeaWorld Florida Teacher Card! Recognizing the dedication and impact of Florida’s educators, SeaWorld Orlando is proud to support teachers both inside and outside the classroom with unlimited admission to SeaWorld, giving them year-round access to inspiring animal experiences, educational opportunities, and family-friendly entertainment through September 2, 2027.
Eligible teachers can register online through ID.me verification.
Family-Friendly Kids’ Events in Orlando This Week (October 12 – October 18, 2026)
Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge Walk
- Dates: Tuesday – Sunday, October 13 – 18, 2026, 9a.m. – 4p.m.
- Location: 10525 Clapp Simms Duda Road, Orlando
- Cost: $10 (3 and under are free)
Take a guided educational refuge tour of this wildlife rehabilitation center and some of the exotic and non-releasable native species that live permanently at the wildlife refuge. Get the chance to see over 25 different wildlife species with Educational Ambassadors as well as learn about how you can help save your local environment.
Flamingos & Fuel Cruise Night in Horizon West
- Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6 – 8 p.m.
- Location: 102 Ruby Red Pl Unit B, Winter Garden, FL 34787
- Cost: FREE admission
Experience car culture and the community with an event that brings together car enthusiasts, families, and friends. Enjoy an evening featuring unique vehicles, chrome classics, and exotics in a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.
Falling Into Harvest Weekend
- Dates: Thursday – Sunday, October 15 – 18, 2026
- Location: Boxi Park, 6877 Lake Nona Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827
- Cost: FREE admission
Make the most of fall with live music every night, good food, and cold drinks all weekend. Explore the petting zoo and corn maze on Saturday, then keep the fun going with Family Fun Day on Sunday.
Windermere Farmers Market at Town Square Park
- Date: Friday, October 16, 2026, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Town Square Park, 520 Main Street, Windermere, FL 34786
- Cost: FREE admission
Start your weekend early with a selection of fresh produce, seafood, breads and pastries, coffee and juices, flowers, handmade goods, and amazing food!
Movies on the Deck: Beetlejuice
- Date: Friday, October 16, 2026, 8:30 p.m.
- Location: Great Southern Box Company, 2105 N Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32804
- Cost: FREE admission
Enjoy complimentary popcorn and slushees while watching Beetlejuice on the deck!
16th Annual Asian Cultural Expo
- Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10am-3pm
- Location: Turkey Lake – Bill Frederick Park, 3401 S Hiawassee Rd, Orlando, FL 32835
- Cost: FREE admission
Come experience and honor the wonders of Asian culture through exhibitions, performances, and crafts. Plus, check out one of the largest and most anticipated dragon boat events in Florida! The Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival brings together paddlers from across North America and beyond for a high-energy celebration of sport, culture, and competition in the vibrant city of Orlando.
Oktoberfest Celebration & Car Meet
- Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Location: Dezerland Park, 5250 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
- Cost: FREE admission
Celebrate German cars and Oktoberfest in Orlando at the Oktoberfest Car Meet at Dezerland Park! Car enthusiasts and families are invited to explore an impressive lineup of German automobiles while enjoying Oktoberfest-inspired fun, food, entertainment and more throughout the day.
2 Girls and a Market
- Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Location: Great Southern Box Company, 2105 N Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32804
- Cost: FREE admission
Celebrate the market’s one-year anniversary with a DJ, giveaways, photobooth, local vendors, and more!
Family-Friendly Kids’ Events in Orlando Next Week (October 19 – October 25, 2026)
Layton Gaming Learn to Play Trading Card Games
- Dates: Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Location: 1140 E Altamonte Dr #1041, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
- Cost: FREE admission
If your child is interested in Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Disney Lorcana, or other trading card games, this Learn to Play event is a great introduction for beginners. New players can learn game basics and strategy in a fun and positive gaming environment.
Orange County Libraries Escape Room Junior
- Dates: Tuesday, October 22, 2026, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Location: 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801
- Cost: FREE – registration Required
Hunt for clues, crack puzzles, and join forces to figure out the mystery. Recommended for ages 6-12. registration required.
Graveyard Smash Weekend
- Dates: Thursday – Sunday, October 22 – 25, 2026
- Location: Boxi Park, 6877 Lake Nona Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827
- Cost: FREE admission
Start the weekend Thursday with the Boxi Park Run Club, then meet on Friday for live music from the Live Effect Party Band. Saturday brings Halloween fun for the little ones, with a kids’ parade, face painting, a bounce house, a special Halloween guest, and a photo booth. Save a costume for your pup, too! Sunday’s dog costume contest keeps the fun going, along with bounce houses and balloon artists. Bring the family, bring your four-legged friends, and celebrate spooky season.
Movies on the Deck: Hotel Transylvania
- Date: Friday, October 23, 2026, 8:30 p.m.
- Location: Great Southern Box Company, 2105 N Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32804
- Cost: FREE admission
Enjoy complimentary popcorn and slushees with this movie on the deck!
Later Gator
BooChella
- Date: Friday, October 30, 2026, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Location: Millie Moo’s, 4085 LB McLeod Rd, Suite E, Orlando, FL 32811
- Cost: $20
Expect spooky-fun play, Fubbles & fog! Costumes, music, and sweet treats — all in a not-so-scary way, just for kids! Costumes encouraged!
SAVE THE DATE!
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin 17th Annual Food and Wine Classic
- Dates: Friday – Saturday, November 20 – 21, 2026
- Location: 1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, 32830
Savor 40 inspired dishes paired with over 170 beers, wines, and spirits across two days, featuring returning favorites and bold new flavors for a truly memorable culinary experience.
Savor more with 10% off when you attend both nights
Ongoing Orlando Events for Kids
The Dome now open at Orlando Science Center
- Dates: Now Open!
- Location: Orlando Science Center
Prepare to be amazed as you step inside The Dome, a new 8K domed theater that will have you soaring through the solar system, under the sea, and even back in time with the dinosaurs! You can read more about The Dome at OSC here!
Community Events at High Point Climbing & Fitness Center
- Dates: Weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays
- Location: High Point Climbing And Fitness – Orlando, 1978 Stanhome Way, Orlando, FL 32804
Enjoy Friends and Family Nights at High Point Climbing every Saturday evening for a social night of climbing! Bring your friends and family to save on day passes. Buy 2+ day passes, get 2+ free! No experience Necessary.
There’s also Thursday Community Nights, where you can get a day pass with rental gear for $18.
Free Day & Story Time
- Dates: 1st Monday of the month from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Location: Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE
Cuddle up inside to enjoy story time and songs with librarians. Then, spend the whole day (free admission) strolling (with your stroller or otherwise) the lush grounds. Your little one will be tickled pink amidst the greenery.
Sushi Rolling Class for Kids
- Dates: Mondays at 11 a.m.
- Location: Shakai Sushi Lounge, 43 E Pine St, Orlando, FL 32801
- Cost: $20 per child (not including tax and tip)
Join every Monday for a sushi rolling class for kids. Includes two sushi rolls with a soft drink and ice cream. Call for reservations: 407-423-2688.
Kids Crafting Class
- Dates: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, 2 p.m.
- Location: Healing Mama Studio, 601 N Orlando Ave #203, Maitland, FL 32751
- Cost: $29 per session
Healing Mama Studio offers a nurturing, creativity-based 50-minute children’s crafting class designed to build fine motor skills, confidence, and social interaction in a calm, boutique-style studio setting. Perfect for ages 5–10.
Toddler Tuesdays
- Dates: Select Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Location: Crayola Experience Orlando, 8001 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32809
- Cost: Included with General Admission
Enjoy special Toddler Crafts and Activities once a month with an interactive book reading, a special character appearance, and more. Try out some of Crayola’s hottest products designed for the little ones at Outside the Box, get creative with toddler crafts and coloring pages, and get ready for a special meet and greet with the Chick-fil-A cow from 10:30am-11:00am! This is the perfect place for the little ones to burn off some energy!
Storytime at the Orlando Executive Airport
- Dates: 1st Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m.
- Location: Orlando Executive Airport, 365 Rickenbacker Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE
Check out Storytime at the Orlando Executive Airport for stories and songs to encourage your child to read, talk, sing, and play! Recommended for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Storytime is at 10:30 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month and lasts approx. 30 minutes. It is held in the conference room at the “Orlando Executive Airport Administration Offices” building. Library staff will be present to help guide the way.
Family Fun Night
- Dates: 1st Tuesday of the month, skating at 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Location: Semoran Skateway, 2670 Cassel Creek Blvd, Casselberry, FL 32707
- Cost: $6 admission, $3 skate rental, $4 inline rental
Semoran Skateway offers Family Fun Night w/ waffles, ice cream, and skating! Pricing is $6 per person for a small Parlor Churro cookie-stuffed Waffle AND a 2oz Cookie Monster Ice Cream from Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream. Skating tickets sold separately. $1 from each sale will be donated to Haley Center for Children’s Cancer at Arnold Palmer Hospital.
Sensory-Friendly Time at Build-A-Bear Workshop
- Dates: Tuesdays, first hour of the day
- Location: Build-A-Bear Workshop, all locations
Every Tuesday for the First Hour of the Day at ALL locations, Build-A-Bear Workshop hosts a Sensory-Friendly Event! Sensory-Friendly time is designed to provide a less-stimulating Workshop experience that’s still fun-filled and unforgettable. Bear Builders are also there to make sure each guest goes through the Build-A-Bear experience in a way that’s comfortable for them.
Wednesday Kids Art Club
- Dates: Wednesdays, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Location: SOBO Art Gallery & Studio, 127 S. Boyd Street, Winter Garden, FL 34787
- Cost: $60
Led by licensed educator Lenore Eastham, Kids Club is a weekly art program designed to inspire creativity and build confidence in young artists. Each fun-filled session encourages kids to use their imagination as they explore 2D and 3D art through painting, drawing, crafting, and more. Participants will learn the elements of art—color, line, shape, form, texture, and space—as well as the principles of design, such as balance, unity, variety, and movement. Projects are tailored to the season and designed to engage both abstract and realistic thinking. No prior experience needed—just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to explore!
Mommy & Me Crafting Experience
- Dates: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
- Location: Healing Mama Studio, 601 N Orlando Ave #203, Maitland, FL 32751
- Cost: $29 per session, or $79 per month
Choose your craft ahead of time and everything will be setup for you when you arrive. An instruction manual will be provided for your chosen craft. This is a time to spend some fun bonding with your little one with a private crafting session.
Access for All
- Dates: Third Thursday of Every Month, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Location: Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave. Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE admission
Enjoy free admission to the Orlando Museum of Art during Access for All, a monthly free day dedicated to the community featuring extended hours, special programs, and opportunities to connect with art. Guests can take part in drop-in sketching with provided materials and join a docent-led Highlights Tour at 7:00pm. By removing financial barriers, this program ensures that more people can experience the joy and inspiration of art in Orlando. Also, every third Thursday, you can ride SunRail to OMA for FREE. As part of the partnership, SunRail riders can present their ticket at the museum’s Visitor Information desk to receive a pass to ride SunRail for FREE to the next Access for All event. Museum guests must show their free ride pass to the SunRail conductor to receive a complimentary fare to and from the AdventHealth Station, which is a five-minute walk from the museum. The pass will only be valid for specified dates.
Extreme Sports Exhibit
- Dates: Now through January 3, 2027
- Location: Orlando Science Center, 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: $29 (online) per adult, $22 (online)per child
This exhilarating exhibit invites adults and children alike to explore some of the most extreme sports in the world. Visitors can try climbing walls, balance on a highline, navigate a parkour course and race along an off-road bike path. Virtual experiences include piloting a wingsuit and paddling through whitewater. There are kid-sized climbing walls, too.
Youth Programs at High Point Climbing
- Dates: Seasonal Clubs and Year-round Teams
- Location: High Point Climbing And Fitness – Orlando, 1978 Stanhome Way, Orlando, FL 32804
Climbing Clubs are designed for children 7-18 years old who are interested in climbing, moving, and having fun with a group of their peers! Instructors alternate between climbing, games, and mini-lessons aimed at helping our athletes enjoy climbing and become comfortable in the gym environment. Meanwhile, the Development Team and Competitive Team take things a bit further for youth seeking to advance their climbing skills and compete for USAC qualification events.
Resources to Explore
The Early Learning Coalition of Orange County
The ELC of Orange Co. is committed to ensuring that every child in the community has equal access to high-quality early learning programs by supporting those who help children grow and develop. We connect families and preschool programs with resources to provide the best possible start for children. From finding childcare, resources on school readiness and VPK, to financial assistance, call 407-841-6607 for more information.
Even more ideas and events in Orlando this week can be found at OrlandoDateNightGuide.com.
