Before the holiday rush sweeps you away, imagine giving yourself the gift of balance – a retreat where excitement meets serenity. In Orlando, fall festivals offer the perfect chance to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones before the whirlwind of the holiday season begins. Each festival offers a space to breathe, unwind, and nourish the soul, all while igniting joy.
1. Maitland’s Art Under The Stars
Start your journey under the stars at Maitland’s Art Under The Stars the weekend of November 8th to 10th. Picture yourself strolling through a tranquil outdoor gallery, surrounded by vibrant art that sparks creativity. The soft glow of evening lights and the gentle hum of conversation invite you to slow down, reflect, and simply enjoy the beauty around you. As you engage with artists sharing their stories, you’ll feel a connection to their process – an inspiration that lingers long after you visit.
2. Longwood Arts and Crafts Festival
Then, let your heart guide you to the 48th annual Longwood Arts and Crafts Festival on November 23rd and 24th. Over 200 booths filled with handcrafted treasures await, each one a story told through art. There’s something healing in the act of browsing, discovering pieces that call to you, whether it’s a handmade piece of jewelry or a unique seasonal decoration. Under the warmth of the sun, with live music playing, you’ll feel the festive energy blend with relaxation, a gentle reminder that joy is found in the simplest moments.
3. Orlando Taco Festival
Imagine biting into your dream taco, crafted just the way you like it, as the vibrant flavors of the Orlando Taco Festival multicultural cuisine nourish not just your body but your spirit. Pointe Orlando’s LIVE! on November 16th and 17th lets you test your appetite with hot chili pepper and taco eating contests. Pair your meal with a variety of drinks at the giant margarita bar. Kids 10 and under can find entertainment at the Kids Fun Zone while adults see how long they can last while riding the mechanical bull. Enjoy a space to savor each bite, listen to live music, and laugh with friends as you soak in the positive energy around you.
4. FusionFest 2024
The rhythmic pulse of music and cultural celebration awaits you at FusionFest on November 30th and December 1st, where a celebration of global creativity fills the streets. Walking through the vibrant parade of colors, sounds, and art from around the world, you’ll feel a sense of unity and connection to the wider world. Kids can show off their creativity with the arts and crafts before navigating the Kids Global Village. Discover trends in fashion in other countries at the fashion heritage showcase, and larger-than-life parade puppets put on a show to remember.
5. Electric Daisy Carnival
And for those looking for deep sensory immersion, the Electric Daisy Carnival at Tinker Field offers a night bathed in neon light and uplifting beats during the weekend of November 8th to 10th. The colorful lights, three-dimensional sculptures, glow-in-the-dark environments, and LED-infused flora and fauna bring you into the present, allowing you to lose yourself in pure, joyful movement.
6. Orlando Japan Festival
On November 10th, let your senses transport you to a world where every moment feels like a gentle embrace of peace and culture. The Orlando Japan Festival in Kissimmee offers the perfect opportunity to nourish your body and spirit. As you savor the delicate flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine, a feeling of calm washes over you, grounding you in the present. The soft melodies of traditional music create a soothing atmosphere, and as you watch the graceful movements of Japanese dancers, you’ll feel connected to the beauty and harmony of another culture. It’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world that balances joy with serenity.
7. Orlando Renaissance Festival
Step into a space where history comes alive, and every moment feels like a step back in time – yet with the comfort and ease of modern-day fun. From December 7th to 10th, the Orlando Renaissance Festival offers an experience that rejuvenates the imagination and nourishes the soul. Picture yourself savoring a feast that delights every sense, as laughter and live performances fill the air. With each step through this magical world, you’re surrounded by creativity and playfulness, a reminder that joy and wellness often come from embracing the simple pleasures of the past.
8. Maker Faire
Channel your inner creator at the Maker Faire on November 9th and 10th at the Central Florida Fairgrounds and Expo Halls. Meet engineers, scientists, and other unique professionals at exhibits to learn how they create their experiments and projects. The hands-on workshops help kids discover their artistic skills and possibly figure out what they want to do when they grow up. Stop by the Maker Faire for the opportunity to help foster the scientists of our future.
From the healing simplicity of handcrafted art to the vibrant energy of live music, Orlando’s fall festivals offer moments to refresh, unwind, and reconnect with what brings you joy. This season, give yourself permission to pause before the holidays, allowing the festivals of Orlando to uplift your spirit.
Book your peaceful retreat at Spectrum Resort Orlando, and let the festival season be your space to heal and rejuvenate before the holiday fun.
