Things to do in Orlando this fall and winter

Don’t get us wrong. We love an endless summer. But even true Sunshine State fans get a little excited the first time they step outside in Central Florida to feel the heat of summer has subsided.  

Truly, Central Florida comes to life when there’s a slight chill in the air and the holidays are just around the corner. We think it’s one of the best times of year to enjoy Wekiva Island, in fact.

Whether you’re a tourist who wants to see the best of Orlando’s most popular attractions or a local looking for things to do in Orlando off the beaten path, you’ll find plenty of options this holiday season. Here are some things to do in Orlando this fall and winter you won’t want to miss.

Dress to impress at Wekiva Island’s Halloween Costume Contest

After you enjoy a morning kayaking Wekiva Springs, head home, throw on your best costume and meet us back on the Island for an awesome Halloween party! Kick off your Halloweekend right and join us on October 29, 2022, at 7 p.m. for our annual Halloween Costume Contest. This event is always a scary good time, plus you have a chance to win up to $1,000 in cash and prizes, a Wekiva Island prize pack and more. Guests at this free event can also enjoy live music from The Davey Schweitzer Band or try a local brew from our Wekiva Springs bar. To learn more, click here.

Venture into the wild at the Asian Lantern Festival

Kids and adults can experience the Central Florida Zoo like never before at the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild from November 18, 2022, to January 15, 2023. Our friends at the Central Florida Zoo will dazzle you with dozens of larger-than-life, hand-constructed illuminated lantern displays around the Zoo on a ¾-mile path. You’ll want to put this on your list of must-do things to do in Orlando. Get your tickets online here.

Experience the holiday magic at Orlando’s famous theme parks

Central Florida’s theme parks are classic Orlando activities, and they go all out in fall and winter. You won’t want to miss the scares at Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Resort or drinking around the world during EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival. Once the holiday season is in full swing, the whole family can enjoy special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom or Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s.

Enjoy the cooler weather with Paddleboard Orlando

The cool, sunny fall and winter weather in Central Florida provides the perfect opportunity for paddleboarding Orlando. If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors, check out our friends Paddleboard Orlando themselves. Paddleboard Orlando offers paddleboard rentals and guided tours for adventurers of all skill levels. You can even give the gift of the outdoors this holiday season with a paddle adventure gift certificate.

Show your artistic side at Wine & Paint

If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando and it’s too cold for Orlando outdoor activities, schedule a date night or girls’ night out and come to one of our monthly Wine & Paint classes. Join the talented Elisabeth Ferber and let her guide you through creating your own masterpiece. Reservations are required and guests receive two glasses of wine, all the supplies for their painting and gourmet charcuterie. Check our events calendar for upcoming dates.

Explore the Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees

OMA’s highly anticipated holiday event is back to spread holiday cheer to Central Florida.  Presented by the Council of 101, Festival of Trees showcases more than 40 designer-inspired decorated trees, exceptional gingerbread houses, wreaths and more. Visitors can also enjoy holiday shopping and special events like Breakfast with Santa. As big Orlando art fans ourselves, we love the creativity. Learn more here.

Give back to your community

As we enter the season of giving, consider setting time aside to help your community. Join Keep Seminole Beautiful on one of their Saturday cleanups at Wekiva Island and learn more about our sustainability initiatives. Plus, you’ll get to go kayaking in Orlando for free! We’ll also be hosting charity happy hours throughout the season to support local non-profits so you can give back while hanging out at our outdoor bar.

Take the holidays to new heights at the Audubon Center

If you haven’t made it out to the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland, now’s the perfect time to visit! Spend the day learning about wildlife conservation or purchase a ticket for Owl Be Home for Christmas on November 12, a holiday celebration with treats, crafts, and photos with Santa and a bird. Did you know that proceeds from our Audubon Cabana support the Audubon Center? We love what they’re doing!

Visit our Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland at Wekiva Island is a can’t-miss holiday event in Orlando! The month-long celebration kicks off on December 2 with our Tree Lighting Ceremony, where Santa and Mrs. Claus will help us light our grand 30-foot-tall Christmas tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be hanging out on the Island on select dates throughout December for special events. Kids will love our outdoor movie nights, Breakfast with Santa and more. And we couldn’t forget about entertainment for the adults. Grab your tickets for the ultimate holiday party—our VIP Party—for endless eats, drinks and fun. Visit our website for more details about all our Winter Wonderland events.

With so many events and things to do in Orlando this fall and winter, there’s always something new to experience. Ready to make some plans? We’ll see you soon to get in the holiday spirit at Wekiva Island!