Spring maybe the official season right now, but we can tell summer is trying its best to take over. Memorial Day Weekend is just two weeks away, and plenty of new restaurants are now open in Orlando. Let's take a look at the best events and things to do this week.
Attention Parents: Head to Orlando-Parenting.com for things to do with kids in Orlando.
Featured Events
Giving an extra shoutout to the following AMAZING events which help us to bring this guide to you for FREE!
Disney's The Lion King – FINAL WEEK
Now through May 18, 2025; various showtimes
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Feel the love & plan a date night to remember when the Serengeti comes to Orlando! Get tickets now to see Disney’s The Lion King at Dr. Phillips Center on April 23-May 18. Before the show, surprise your partner with stunning views of Downtown Orlando while indulging in handcrafted cocktails and delicious snacks from the stylish in-house bars. Don’t miss your chance to see The World’s #1 Musical—secure your seats now to Disney’s The Lion King.
Chef’s Curated Wine Dinner
Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 7pm (and every Saturday in May)
Market to Table: 146 W Plant St., Suite 140, Winter Garden, FL 34787
The first in a series of elegant wine dinners, a limited number of guests will enjoy a curated multi-course menu paired with global wines.
It begins with a amuse-bouche paired with Charles Armand Blanc de Blanc Champagne. Courses include chilled blue crab with asparagus, short rib ravioli, and braised short rib with truffle risotto—each paired with wines from France, Argentina, and California. A refreshing sorbet trio follows, matched with Italian Prosecco, and the evening concludes with decadent chocolate velvet cake and a rich 20-year Australian port.
$95 per person plus tax and gratuity. For more information call (407) 395-9871. Reservations, note “Chef's Wine Dinner” under Additional Requests.
Wax N Whiskey
Saturday, May 17, 2025 8pm – midnight
Forward/Slash Distillery, Winter Park
Calling all music lovers to Forward/Slash Distillery’s “Wax N Whiskey” night on Saturday, May 17th 8PM – 12AM. Come for the cocktails, stay for the music at our Vinyl Listening party hosted by our friends from Lazy Afternoon. Records will be available for sale and food will be served from El Tinto. The event is free to attend but must be 21+.
Gatorland’s 6th Annual Gatorpalooza
May 17–18, 2025
14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837
Enjoy live music, family fun, food, crafts, and all the alligator awesomeness that a day at Gatorland has to offer. Don’t miss the wild 5th Annual Gatorland Florida Man Challenge on Saturday! Cool off at the Gator Gully Splash Park—swimsuits encouraged! Best of all, Gatorpalooza is included with park admission. Bring the whole family for unforgettable fun that won’t break the budget at “The Alligator Capital of the World!”
Amber Brooke Farms Sweet Corn Festival
May 17, 18, 24, & 25, 2025, from 10am to 5pm
Eustis Farm Location: 36111 County Rd 44A, Eustis, FL 32736
Get ready for a day full of farm-fresh fun at the 2nd Annual Sweet Corn Festival! Celebrate the sweetness of summer with delicious, sweet corn, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, local vendors, and more. Whether you’re here for the food, the fun, or the photo ops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come make memories with us! $14.95 online & $16.95 at the gate.
Wild Safari Bourbon & Whiskey Tasting Tour
Thursday, May 29, at 7 p.m.
Eola View Orlando
Embark on an unforgettable evening of bold flavors and exotic ambience at Eola View’s Wild Safari Bourbon & Whiskey Tasting Tour. Inspired by the allure of safari, enjoy sample pours from top distilleries, a 30-minute tasting class, live entertainment, and themed décor. Choose from General Admission, Food Upgrade, or VIP with open bar and exclusive swag. Enjoy steel drums, Cuban cigars, and more. Tickets start at $55. Adventure awaits—reserve your spot now!
Things to Do This Week May 12- May 18, 2025 Orlando Events
EPCOT® International Flower & Garden Festival
Now – June 2, 2025
EPCOT
Find magic in bloom at this springtime event with character-themed topiaries, fresh flavors and fun for all ages.
Related post: Adults-Only Lounge Coming to EPCOT
Orlando Fringe Festival
Tuesday, May 13 – May 26, times vary
Loch Haven Park, and other venues in Orlando
Since 1992, Orlando Fringe has provided a space and opportunity for artists to emerge and showcase their talents and craft. The Orlando Fringe produces The Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, the longest-running Fringe in the United States, which strives to be unjuried, uncensored, accessible for artists and audiences alike, with 100% of ticket sales given back to the artists.
The Great Curious Cocktail Party
Wednesday, May 14, 6pm – 9pm
North Quarter Orlando
Help change the culture of social drinking and spread the good vibes from coast to coast! Thanks to Curious Elixirs, the Sober Betties of Orlando have been selected to be one of the host locations for The Great Curious Cocktail Party.
$10
Orlando City SC vs. Charlotte FC
Wednesday, May 14, 2025; 7:30pm
Inter&Co Stadium in Downtown Orlando
Come cheer on The City Beautiful’s MLS team with a load date night roar. Isn’t it time to be tickled pink in your matching purple jerseys?!
Tickets start at $12 and up
Access for All – Orlando Museum of Art
Thursday, May 15, 2025; 10am-8pm
2416 North Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803
Thanks to funding by the Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program, OMA offers free admission on third Thursday of the month, with extended hours from 10am to 8pm.
Free
Third Thursday Orlando
Thursday, May 15, 4:30pm – 9pm
CityArts Orlando, 39 S Magnolia Ave
Celebrate arts, culture, and history on the 3rd Thursday of every month in downtown Orlando. Presented by Downtown Arts District in concert with DTOLive!, the 3rd Thursday Orlando series features art activations, live performances, history exhibitions, and so much more.
FREE
Sip + Savor Oregon…in Orlando! Tasting Event
Thursday, May 15, 6pm – 7:30pm
Swirlery Wine Bar, 1508 E Michigan St, Orlando, FL 32806
In celebration of Oregon Wine Month this May, Melissa J. McAvoy of Swirlery Wine Bar and Christina Thomas, local Orlando foodie and native Oregonian, are thrilled to co-host this immersive wine tasting experience. You'll be transported to the lush landscapes of Oregon's Willamette Valley, recently named The World’s Top Wine Destination for 2025, with a carefully curated selection of Oregon's finest offerings.
$28.52 per person
Flower Fest at Boxi Park
Thursday – Sunday, May 15-May 18, 5pm – 11pm
Boxi Park, Lake Nona
Boxi Park is in full bloom this spring with the return of Flower Fest. Enjoy festive food and drink specials throughout the park, including a featured cocktail: the Bouquet of Roses, crafted with Sipsmith gin, rose, watermelon, lime, and Il Lagra rosé. Get creative at the floral arrangement workshop by True Amor, sparkle at the glitter bar, and treat yourself to permanent jewelry or a custom charm at the charm bar.
FREE
Purple Pride 5K
Saturday, May 17, 8am
Inter&Co Stadium, 655 W. Church St.
Get ready to kick off spring with a running start at the tenth annual Purple Pride 5K. You'll run through the local community before finishing on the sidelines of the field inside the stadium. Each participant will receive a race t-shirt, a commemorative finisher's medal, a ticket to Orlando City's match against the Portland Timbers on May 24, and a ticket to Orlando Pride's match against the Houston Dash on June 7!
$45
Orlando Book Festival
Saturday, May 17, 10am – 5pm
Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.
Join for panels, writing workshops, author signings, and talks from authors from all over the state and a keynote from New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer.
FREE
Board & Brush at Dees Brothers
Saturday, May 17, 12pm – 3pm
Dees Brothers Brewery, Sanford
All the materials are provided and they will instruct you step-by-step to create a beautiful piece for your home or for a gift. Choose from a variety of paint and wood stain colors in the workshop.
$25, $5 from each project sold to Rescue Outreach Mission
April Showers Bring May Flowers
Saturday, May 17, 1pm – 5pm
The Wellborn, 211 N Lucerne Cir W, Orlando
Enjoy seasonal sips and bites, a butterfly release, local plant vendors, a flower bar, and live music.
FREE entry
Ultimate Garden Party “Escape to Elegance”
Saturday, May 17, 2025 – 1pm – 5pm
Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Entertainment, delicious hors d'oeuvres and live music. Test your casino skills while enjoying fancy cocktails at the libations lounge and shop the newest collections from your favorite vendors at the Trunk Show. Merchants will donate 25% of sales to Second Harvest. 100% of each ticket sold supports Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida's efforts to fight hunger in our community.
Pet Alliance Pup Crawl: Ivanhoe Village Edition
Saturday, May 17, 4pm – 8pm
City Food Hall Orlando, 1460 Alden Rd, Orlando
A fun-filled evening as you and your furry friend explore the vibrant and charming dog-friendly venues of Ivanhoe Village. Enjoy specially crafted Pup Crawl-themed Cocktails & “Yappie Hour” prices, available exclusively for wristband holders. Meet up to 15 local pet industry vendors at multiple locations.
Wristband Collection: Available from 4 PM to 6 PM at the event start location (City Food Hall)
Ticket purchase required to participate in drink specials, activities, swag, contests, etc.
Age Requirement: Must be 21+ to participate in drink specials.
‘Silent' Piano Concert
Saturday, May 17, 2025 – 7pm-9pm
Lake Eola Park
Experience this beautiful musical journey as composer & pianist Murray Hidary brings MindTravel to Lake Eola Park! Put on your headphones and let the enchanting melodies of the piano guide you through a musical journey like no other. The ‘silent' aspect of the event allows you to fully immerse yourself in the music, creating a personal connection with each note.
$40
Milkshake Masterclass
Sunday, May 18, 11am – 12:30pm
JoJo's ShakeBAR Orlando, 9101 International Drive #1208 Orlando
Indulge in the art of crafting the perfect milkshake as expert mixologists guide you through every step of the process. Whether you're a milkshake enthusiast or a novice looking to learn, this masterclass promises an immersive and delicious journey into the world of shake-making.
$22
Disney's The Lion King
April 23 – May 18, 2025
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
445 South Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801
Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s The Lion King, making its triumphant return to the Walt Disney Theater!
Ticket prices vary
Viva La Música at SeaWorld
Saturday, May 10 & 17, and May 11 & 18, performances at 2pm and 5pm
Join the fiesta with live music, DJs, dance zones, entertainers, and more. From the hottest Latin entertainment to the coolest attractions and animal adventures, these will be two unforgettable weekends at SeaWorld. Tickets are available for purchase, not included with park admission.
Tickets starting at $19.99
Weekly Ongoing Orlando Events
AC Orlando Downtown Express Lunch
Lunch served Tuesday-Friday 11am-3pm
333 S. Garland Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Introducing AC Hotel's new Express Lunch—crafted for those on the go but unwilling to compromise on flavor. For just $18, enjoy a chef-inspired entrée and a non-alcoholic beverage, all guaranteed to be served within 20 minutes of ordering. Perfect for a power lunch or a quick catch-up, it's speed without sacrifice. Available Tuesday-Friday—because great taste shouldn't have to wait.
Singo at Forward/Slash Distillery
The Last Thursday of Every Month, from 7-9 p.m.
650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
The easiest game you’ll ever play is Singo! Hosted by Challenge Entertainment at Forward/Slash Distillery in Winter Park on the last Thursday of the month from 7PM – 9PM, Singo is a game of zero skill and all luck. Grab a drink, hear a song, and see if it’s on your bingo card. Groups are encouraged and is open to anyone 21+. Next Singo night: May 29th.
Pottery Night
One Thursday Every Month, from 6:30-8 p.m.
8602 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Discover the magic of pottery in this 2-hour group session at the Castle Hotel! Guided by a skilled instructor, you’ll master the basics of throwing clay on the pottery wheel and create your very own unique piece. From shaping the clay to glazing for a polished finish, this experience offers hands-on fun from start to finish. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this class is perfect for unleashing your inner artist. Next Pottery Night: May 15th.
Makers Market at Forward/Slash Distillery
The Last Saturday of Every Month, from 2-6 p.m.
650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Support your local Orlando makers at Forward/Slash Distillery’s monthly Makers Market. Hosted by Orlando Local Maker’s, this event features the best of vendors who craft and make various items, goods, trinkets, and gifts. The next markets are April 26 & May 31st with the last one of the season hosted in June before a break for summer. Food will be served by Bien Fuego BBQ for some light bites while you shop. Free to attend!
Mermaid Dives and Meet & Greets at SEA LIFE Orlando
Fridays – Sundays, May 3 – 26, plus Memorial Day (May 26, 2025)
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, ICON Park
Mermaids are making a splash at SEA LIFE Orlando every weekend this May. Included with regular admission, guests can watch enchanting mermaid dives in the Atlantic Ocean habitat and meet a mermaid in the magical Mermaid Grotto.
Dive Times:
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Meet & Greet:
11:30 AM – 6:30 PM
ICEBAR Orlando Epic Summer
May 15 – September 1, 2025
ICEBAR's summer lineup includes themed cocktails, a liquor-infused ice cream bar, weekend DJs, live ice carving shows, and the brand-new Tiki-themed ICEBAR Beach Club. Enjoy games, giveaways, and lively parties throughout the season.
Bonus: Show your Epic Universe ticket for free entry Sunday through Thursday and half-off entry on Fridays and Saturdays.
Tasty Takeover in The Milk District
Tuesdays from 6:30-10pm
The Milk District – E. Robinson St
THE food truck block party in Orlando! Find it in The Milk District every Tuesday night behind the bars and shops of E. Robinson St.
FREE Admission
Luminary Market
First Wednesday of every month, 5:30-9pm
Luminary Green Park in Creative Village
Explore 20-25 local vendors featuring unique, curated goods and support our growing community of residents, students, and workers. Stick around after shopping for KaleidoScope 360°, an outdoor movie series where you can enjoy family-friendly films under the stars! Showtime is at 7pm.
Late Night Thursdays
Thursdays, 5pm – 8pm
Leu Gardens
Bring a picnic & seating, sip some spirits, or take a stroll through the gardens and discover the amazing ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN exhibit. Included with general admission. Rain or shine.
$15 per adult, $10 per child
Piano Bar Show at Jewel
Friday and Saturday Nights
Jewel Orlando
Dueling Piano players take the stage for a fun night of song requests and sing-alongs! Call (321) 444-5306 after 5pm to get your password for speakeasy entry.
FREE admission with password
RELATED: How to Have an Orlando Food Truck Date
Cirque du Soleil “Drawn to Life”
Wednesdays – Sundays
Performances of “Drawn to Life” take place on most nights at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Go for the later show if you prefer to potentially have less kids in attendance. Additionally, it will give you more time to enjoy Disney Springs before the show.
Weekends at the Winery
Saturdays and Sundays, 10am – 5pm (Sat) & 11am – 5pm (Sun)
Lakeridge Winery
Head to this Central Florida winery's expansive vineyard green each weekend for delicious food, live entertainment, complimentary wine tastings/tours, and Lakeridge wines by the glass at the outdoor bar. Plus, delicious food at the Food Pavilion, as well as live music all weekend long.
FREE admission
Check out multiple Farmers' Markets around Orlando every weekend.
Saturday Exhibition Highlights Docent-Led Tour
Every Saturday, 1pm & 3pm
Rollins Museum of Art
Docent-led tours of highlighted works from the season’s exhibitions at the Rollins Museum of Art.
FREE
Tai Chi in the Garden
Every Saturday through 2025, 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Mead Botanical Garden, 1300 S. Denning Dr, Winter Park
A gentle exercise program that is composed of slow deliberate movements, meditation, and deep breathing to enhance health and well- being.
$15
Next Week: May 19 – May 25, 2025 Orlando Events
Polasek Nights
Thursday, May 22, 5:30pm – 8pm
Polasek Museum
633 Osceola Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Art, sunset, and a cold drink in hand. Explore Je, Niko Huru? Threads of Freedom: Njeri Kinuthia—a bold exhibition that explores what it means to be free. Then step outside for golden hour in the sculpture gardens. Other highlights include: Pride-themed photobooth, drinks available for purchase, one free beer for UCF students (with valid ID), open galleries + sunset strolls.
$10 for Non-Members, free for Members
Suncreek Brewery's Bacon & Beer Tasting
Thursday, May 22, 7pm
Suncreek Cafe
790 W Minneola Ave Unit 1 Clermont, FL
Four bacon & beer pairing for $35 per person
Sunset Serenades: Spring Strings with Rimma
Thursday, May 22, 7-9pm
Leu Gardens
1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Enjoy Spring Strings with Rimma, a concert that brings together the energy of Dvořák, the color of Debussy, and the passion of Gardel. Dvořák’s String Quintet No. 2 in G major fills the room with lively melodies, while Debussy’s La fille aux cheveux de lin offers a moment of quiet beauty. The night ends with the irresistible rhythms of Por una Cabeza, a tango that will leave you humming long after the final note. This in-person event in the beautiful Camellia Room promises to be a delightful experience for music lovers of all ages. Tickets includes on complimentary wine, beer, soda, or water.
$41.62 for Non-Members, $37.64 for Members
Taste of Baldwin Park
Friday, May 23, 2025; 6:30-9:30pm
New Broad Street, Baldwin Park
Indulge in a culinary adventure at the Taste of Baldwin Park, where 50 local restaurants and chefs showcase their finest dishes. Enjoy live music, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in one of Orlando's most charming neighborhoods. Admission is for 21+ with VIP upgrade options.
$60 and up
Orlando Carnival Downtown
Saturday & Sunday, May 24–25, 2025; times vary
Camping Word Stadium
Experience rich Caribbean culture at the Orlando Carnival Downtown. This two-day festival features colorful parades, live music, traditional dances, and authentic Caribbean cuisine, bringing the spirit of the islands to the heart of Orlando.
$37.55 and up
Summer Kickoff Party at Aloma Bowl
Saturday, May 24, 1pm – 5pm
2530 Aloma Ave, Winter Park FL
A luau carnival and bowling bash. Enjoy bowling and food & drink deals, raffles, giveaways and more even fun!
Milk Mart's 9th Birthday Bash
Sunday, May 25, 12pm – 6pm
2430 E Robinson, Orlando
This is the last big party before Milk Mart hibernates through the summer, so come celebrate another year 'round the sun (and another season of amazing local fests in the bag)!
FREE
Sunset at the Zoo
May 24, 2025; 5-8pm
Central Florida Zoo, Sanford
Spend an enchanting evening at the Central Florida Zoo during the peak sunset hours. This event, ideal for either a family date night or just parents night out, offers extended hours, allowing visitors to explore the zoo's exhibits under the golden hues of the setting sun, accompanied by live entertainment, food trucks, and special activities.
Wickedly Good Wizard of Oz Tribute Drag Brunch
Sunday, May 25, 2023; 2pm
Funny Bone Comedy Club & Restaurant, 9101 International Dr Suite 2310
Orlando, FL 32819
This event pairs a wicked good brunch with gravity-defying entertainment.
$29-$59
Coming Up: May 26-June 1, 2025
Poetry in the Gallery
Wednesday, May 28, 2025; 6-7pm
Art & History Museums – Maitland
This free event features Kerouac House Writer in Residence Skye Jackson. She’ll share her poetry, to complement the current gallery exhibition, LOSS, featuring art by Michael Massaro.
Free
Orlando Critical Mass
Friday, May 30, 2025; 6:30pm
Join fellow cyclists for the largest ongoing group bicycle ride through Downtown Orlando. Rides typically are up to 10 miles, rain or shine, and depart from Loch Haven Park.
Free
Michael Jr.’s Funny How Marriage Works Comedy Date Night Experience
Friday, May 30, 2025; 7-9pm
Living Water Fellowship, 4101 Pleasant Hill Rd., Kissimmee, FL 34746
This live, faith-based comedy show blends humor and heart to help couples strengthen relationships through laughter and real conversation.
$35.21
Let’s Get Shrekxual: A Swampy Burlesque
Friday, May 30, 2025; 8pm
Conduit, 6700 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL
For one night only, Conduit will host a sexy burlesque show like none other. Couples can enjoy a whimsical fairytales that embraces the hilarity of a popular green character. One night only.
$15-$30
Science Night Live
Saturday, May 31, 2025; 8pm-11:30pm
Orlando Science Center
Embrace your inner scientist at Science Night Live, an adults-only event at the Orlando Science Center. Explore interactive exhibits, attend live science demonstrations, and enjoy access to the Crosby Observatory for stargazing. It's a night of discovery and fun for the 21+ crowd.
$20
The Pride Cup
Saturday, May 31-Sunday, June 1, 2025
Fairfield Inn Lake Buena Vista
The Pride Cup is a LGBTQ+ multi-sport competition held in alignment with Orlando Gay Days. These events welcome athletes of all levels to participate in friendly competition.
Tournament price varies per sport.
Save the Date!
Love is Universal Nights
Every Thursday and Friday in June
Red Coconut Club at CityWalk
Celebrate Pride Month at Red Coconut Club during Love is Universal Nights every Thursday and Friday in June. The event is for guests 21 and up and features live entertainment, plus specialty drinks available for purchase. Admission is free.
River Country Water Park at Westgate River Ranch
Opening June 13!
3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, FL 33867
Get ready for splash-filled adventures at River Country Water Park, opening June 13! Splash through thrilling water slides or take a refreshing dip in the pool. Whether you're soaking up the sun or relaxing poolside, there's no better place in Lake Wales for a full day of fun. Plus, book early at RiverCountry.com and score free water park tickets, making your stay even more unforgettable.
Prehistoric Sip & Stroll
Thursday, June 26, 5:30pm – 8pm
Oviedo Mall
Channel your inner T-Rex, and join us for an extinct-level evening of flavor and fun at Oviedo Mall’s Prehistoric Sip & Stroll! Wander the mall on a dino-sized adventure featuring complimentary food & wine tastings, Jurassic photo ops and more.
Costumes and dino-themed outfits are totally encouraged—bonus points if you can sip in a T-Rex suit. Must be 21+ to participate in alcohol tastings
Taste! Central Florida
Saturday, July 12, from 6:30-11 p.m.
Orlando World Marriott Center
Taste! Central Florida is the region’s premier annual culinary and beverage tasting event, bringing together more than 80 of Central Florida’s top chefs, restaurants, and beverage experts for an unforgettable evening to include live entertainment, interactive revenue enhancers and a mission to combat hunger in our community. It stands out as one of the year's major fundraisers for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, and the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, creating profound awareness and relief for the children in our community who face hunger on a daily basis. Every dollar raised stays within the community, ensuring children in Central Florida have access to the nourishment they need to thrive.
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