May Magic: 10 Family Adventures in Orlando This Weekend

This weekend, Central Florida is buzzing with cultural festivals, high-flying stunts, and the return of one of Orlando’s most unique artistic traditions. From celebrating Haitian heritage to watching elite athletes take flight, there’s an adventure for every speed. Grab your gear and get ready, it’s time to explore!

1. 35th Annual Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

The longest-running Fringe festival in the U.S. is officially in full swing! While Fringe is famous for its eclectic adult shows, Kids Fringe (located at the Orlando Garden Club) offers a fantastic weekend of free performances, workshops, and puppet shows. It’s a perfect way to introduce the little ones to the magic of live theater in a family-friendly environment.

• Date: May 12–25, 2026 (Weekend events focus on Kids Fringe)
• Location: Loch Haven Park & Various Venues, Orlando
• Cost: Outdoor activities and Kids Fringe are FREE; show prices vary
• Link: orlandofringe.org

2. Sak Pase: Orlando’s #1 Haitian Flag Day Festival

Celebrate Haitian Flag Day with a massive explosion of culture, music, and food. This festival taking place at Wall Street Plaza features live kompa music, folk dancing, and authenticHaitian cuisine. Take the kids to learn about and celebrate Haiti’s rich history and have some fun and good eats as well..

• Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026; Starts at 1:00 PM
• Location: Wall Street Plaza, Downtown Orlando
• Cost: Check website for ticket details
• Link: sakpaseorlando.com

3. 2026 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame Induction

Witness history at the Kennedy Space Center! Join NASA legends as they induct the newest class of astronauts into the Astronaut Hall of Fame. Following the ceremony, families can enjoy the Visitor Complex’s world-class exhibits and maybe even spot a veteran astronaut roaming the grounds.

• Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
• Location: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island
• Cost: Ceremony included with general admission
• Link: kennedyspacecenter.com

4. Noche Latina: Latin Marketplace at Avalon Park

Avalon Park brings the flair of Latin America to East Orlando with its 2nd Annual Noche Latina. This open-air marketplace features local Hispanic artisans, live music, and plenty of dancing. It’s a great evening spot for families to grab dinner from local vendors and enjoy the community atmosphere.

• Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026; 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Location: 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828
• Cost: FREE Admission
• Link: avalonparkorlando.com

5. Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime at House of Blues

For families with older teens or music-loving parents, enjoy a night of ska-punk vibes at Disney Springs. Badfish delivers a high-energy performance that captures the essence of 90s surf culture. It’s a great way to kick off the weekend.

• Date: Friday, May 15, 2026; 7:00 PM
• Location: House of Blues, Disney Springs
• Cost: Tickets start at approx. $30
• Link: houseofblues.com/orlando

6. Movie Under the Stars: The Super Mario Bros. Movie at Avalon Park

Grab your blankets and lawn chairs for a perfect spring evening in the park! Families can gather under the stars to watch Mario and Luigi’s big-screen adventure on a massive outdoor screen. 

• Date: Friday, May 15, 2026; Movie starts at 8:00 PM
• Location: 3651 Avalon Park E Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828
• Cost: FREE
• Link: avalonparkorlando.com

7. Thrive & Vibe Fitness Fest at Promenade at Sunset Walk

Looking for a fun way to stay active this weekend? Head over to the Promenade at Sunset Walk for a full day of wellness and energy. This family-friendly fitness festival features free group workouts, live DJ sets, and gift card giveaways. Even better, participants have the opportunity to earn a complimentary one-day admission pass to the Island H2O Water Park right next door!

• Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026; Starts at 10:00 AM
• Location: 3251 Margaritaville Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34747
• Cost: FREE Admission (registration may be required for specific classes)
• Link: sunsetwalk.com

8. 5th Annual Quinceañera & Sweet 16 Expo

This massive expo features the best local photographers, caterers, and dress designers. So if that big day iscoming up soon for your kids, then you won’t want to miss it.

• Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026; 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Location: D’Space Orlando, 1261 Anderson Rd, Orlando, FL 32812
• Cost: Ticket required
• Link: quinceaneraexpoevents.com

9. Windermere Cars & Coffee

Car enthusiasts of all ages can check out a stunning array of exotic, classic, and luxury vehicles while grabbing a fresh coffee from local vendors. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly way to begin the day.

• Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026; 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Location: Town Center, Windermere, FL 34786
• Cost: FREE
• Link: windermerecarscoffee.com

10. Gatorland: Gators, Ghosts and Goblins Sneak Peek

Step into the “Alligator Capital of the World” for a bit of early-season spooky fun! Gators, Ghosts and Goblins is one of our favorite family-friendly events, but it’s only around for a limited time, so we are happy to be able to enjoy it for another weekend.

• Date: Daily; 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837
• Cost: Tickets start at approx. $34.99 (check site for Florida Resident discounts)
• Link: gatorland.com