It's another lovely (but cold) weekend in Orlando. So how are you going to spend it? Every week, we update our list of events and things to do around town. But what if you're in a hurry and need this weekend's top picks? You've come to the right place.
This Weekend in Orlando, January 16-18, 2026
Speed Friending: Hobbyists Edition
- Date: Friday, January 16, 2026, 6pm-8pm
- Location: Lobos Coffee Roasters, 3000 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: FREE
Whether you collect plushies, paint tiny dragons, shred on guitar, or casually crochet questionable creatures… this night is for you. Meet friends who share your hobbies!
Paranormal Cirque Specter
- Dates: Friday, January 16 through Monday, January 19, 2026
- Location: Oviedo Mall
- Cost: $20-$60
The secret is officially out… and things are about to get weird. Paranormal Cirque is coming to the Oviedo Mall, transforming the big top into a twisted nightmare where horror, mystery, and jaw-dropping performances collide. This isn’t just a show, it’s an experience designed to haunt your senses long after you leave the tent.
DeLand Craft Beer Festival
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026, VIP 12 pm – 4 pm, General Admission 1 pm – 4 pm
- Location: Downtown DeLand, West Georgia Avenue
The DeLand Craft Beer Festival returns for its 17th year with one of Central Florida’s largest and most beloved beer-tasting events. Featuring more than 200 beers to sample, plus live music and food trucks, the festival transforms Downtown DeLand into a lively, walkable celebration of craft brewing.
Goats & Cocoa
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026, 3pm-6pm
- Location: Lobos Coffee Roasters, 3000 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Cost: General Admission (Advance): $15, General Admission (Day of Event): $20
Adorable goats will be all decked out in their coziest winter sweaters, bringing a touch of charm and warmth to the season. Think soft knits, bright colors, and a whole lot of cuteness! Your ticket includes a complimentary drink to keep you cozy. Choose from hot chocolate, specialty coffee drinks like the “Baa-rista’s Brew,” or a glass of wine or beer for those looking to unwind.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
- Date: January 16 – February 23, 2026
- Location: EPCOT, Walt Disney World Resort, 200 Epcot Center Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Celebrate creativity in all forms at EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts, a 39-day seasonal event featuring immersive visual art installations, live performing arts, including the Disney on Broadway concert series, hands-on interactive experiences, and an international array of art-inspired culinary offerings.
ILLUMINATE at Aquatica Orlando
- Date: Select nights, November 15, 2025 – January 30, 2026 (EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND)
- Location: Aquatica Orlando, 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL
- Cost: $25 – $30; parking $15 additional
Experience a whole new glow at Aquatica this holiday season. ILLUMINATE transforms the park into a walk-through light spectacular filled with themed zones, glowing sculptures, and cozy surprises like s’mores fire pits, and signature cocktails. Each area offers its own music, mood, and interactive elements — perfect for date nights, friends’ outings, or festive family fun. Slides and water attractions remain closed, allowing guests to explore the park’s illuminated pathways at a relaxed pace.
Ready for more? Jump over to our full Event Guide for this month!
