Your Ultimate Orlando Weekend: Top 10 Things to Do (Nov 22-23)
The weekend is officially here, and guess what? Orlando is throwing down! Forget the same old routine—this Saturday and Sunday (November 22nd and 23rd) are absolutely packed with adrenaline-pumping adventures, jaw-dropping art, classic entertainment, and even some unexpected winter magic.
Whether you’re a local looking for a fresh escape or a visitor ready to dive deep into Central Florida’s unique vibe, we’ve sorted through the noise to bring you the Top 10 essential events and attractions you can’t afford to miss. Grab your keys, rally your crew, and get ready to conquer the weekend!
1. Fall Festival of the Arts (DeLand): The V.I.P. Art Show!
This isn’t just a fair; it’s a premier event. We’re talking 150+ jaw-dropping artists showcasing their best work in a beautifully curated, juried environment. Beyond the stunning visuals, you’ll find continuous live entertainment and mouth-watering local cuisine filling the historic streets of Downtown DeLand. It’s the perfect, sophisticated day trip for art lovers and families looking for creative activities.
- When: Saturday & Sunday (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- Where: Downtown DeLand
2. Longwood Arts & Crafts Festival: Get Your Shop On!
Get ready to browse! With over 200 artists and vendors, the Longwood Arts & Crafts Festival is one of the largest and most popular events this season. It’s a goldmine for unique, handcrafted items, and the food vendor selection is always top-notch. It’s a fantastic, free-admission event to spend a full day browsing and loading up on holiday gifts (or treating yourself!).
- When: Sat (9 AM – 5 PM) & Sun (9 AM – 4 PM)
- Where: Historic Downtown Longwood
3. Annie – The Musical: The Sun Will Come Out!
Need a cultural fix that’s pure feel-good energy? The classic family-friendly musical Annie is hitting the stage. Grab a ticket for a heartwarming performance that’s perfect for all ages. It’s a great way to take a break from the outdoor heat and enjoy some classic Broadway cheer.
- When: Sat & Sun (Check Showtimes)
- Where: Theatre South Playhouse, Orlando
4. Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland: REAL SNOW!
Stop the presses! This natural spring spot is transforming into a legitimate WINTER EXPERIENCE starting this weekend! They are bringing in real snow (yes, real snow in Florida!), sleigh rides, and dazzling holiday lights. It’s the ultimate kickoff to the holiday season and a unique way to experience a snowy day without traveling north. GO. BUILD. A. SNOWMAN.
- When: Kicks off Saturday, Nov 22nd!
- Where: Wekiva Island, Longwood
5. Christmas at Gaylord Palms: ICE! is BACK!
We’re talking 2 MILLION POUNDS of hand-carved, colored ice sculptures! Gaylord Palms is officially a holiday wonderland, and the signature ICE! attraction featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ is open for business. It’s a bone-chilling 9 degrees inside, so you get to slide down an ice slide and pose with the Bumble without leaving Florida. It’s legendary, and it starts this weekend!
- When: Saturday & Sunday (Part of a Season-Long Event, Check Hours)
- Where: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Kissimmee (Just south of Orlando)
6. Light Up Mount Dora: The Grand Illumination!
Get ready for the most dazzling light show outside the theme parks! This is the official kick-off to the holiday season in charming Downtown Mount Dora. The entire city flips the switch on over two million lights in a single night. Expect a fireworks display, Santa, live entertainment, and all the shops open late. This is a classic, can’t-miss, photo-worthy event.
- When: Saturday, Nov 22nd (Starts at 5:30 PM)
- Where: Donnelly Park & Sunset Park, Downtown Mount Dora
7. Dezerland Christmas Wonderland: Skate & Play!
Dezerland is transforming their massive entertainment complex into a full-blown holiday adventure! We’re talking an indoor ice rink, festive train rides, themed scenes with live choirs, and multiple chances to grab a pic with the big guy, Santa. It’s the perfect way to burn off some energy and grab some indoor holiday cheer.
- When: Saturday (2:00 PM – 9:00 PM) & Sunday (1:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
- Where: Dezerland Park Orlando, International Drive
8. Clermont Celebrates (Most Magical Night): Snow in the South!
Downtown Clermont is throwing a huge party to celebrate the season! Join the locals for real snowfall, Santa sightings, live music, local vendors, and a massive kids’ zone. This is a festive, small-town-vibe event packed with family-friendly action. Come celebrate the most magical night of the year!
- When: Saturday, Nov 22nd (2:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
- Where: Historic Downtown Clermont
9. Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild!
Get ready for a dazzling, nighttime journey! The Central Florida Zoo transforms into a wonderland of light with hundreds of stunning, hand-crafted, life-size lantern displays. Wander the 3/4-mile path through oceans, mythical creatures, and massive dragons glowing with thousands of LED lights. This is an incredible, unique evening spectacle you won’t forget.
- When: Saturday & Sunday, Nov 22nd & 23rd (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Where: Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford (North of Orlando)
10. Dinos in Lights: Prehistoric Holiday Twinkle!
Add some roar to your holiday tour! The Orlando Science Center is blending science and Christmas cheer by transforming their DinoDigs area into a light show spectacular. Watch Stan the T. Rex and his fossil friends put on a festive, choreographed light and music display that ends with a wintry surprise. This is one for the kids and anyone who loves a quirky holiday twist!
- When: Saturday & Sunday (Runs 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Included with Admission)
- Where: Orlando Science Center, Orlando
