Discover top October events, from spooky fall fun to sports, concerts and free things to do.
October is officially here, and Orlando is ready, bringing top-rated Halloween thrills, cozy autumn events and so much more to explore. We’ve rounded up some of the top events to check out this month, from major concerts and sporting events to art festivals, culinary experiences and even free things to do. So, pack your bags, make those plans, and we’ll see you soon for what I personally think is the best month of the year.
Discover: Orlando Events
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Seasonal Halloween Fun
Orlando’s Halloween festivities started way back in August, but October is when it all truly comes to a head. Experience the Halloween Vacation Capital at its very best with brilliant events for all ages, from trick-or-treating and family-friendly theme park events to terrifying haunted houses and spooktacular themed bars. We’ve listed some of our most well-known Halloween events below. If you’re looking for something a little more obscure, be sure to check out our full Halloween events guide for more ideas.
Discover: Halloween Events
For Families: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World® Resort, SeaWorld® Spooktacular at SeaWorld® Orlando, Gators, Ghosts and Goblins at Gatorland, Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
For Adults: Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort, Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld® Orlando, Nosferatu: The Citadel at Renaissance Theatre Company, Nightmare on Orange at The Courtesy
Pumpkins, U-Picks & More Fall Events
Of course, October is also a great time to celebrate autumn. Pack your boots and soak up the seasonal vibes with these fall-inspired Orlando events.
Fall Festival at Southern Hill Farms
Select Dates Through Nov. 22, 2026
Southern Hill Farms brings all your fall favorites together in one place every weekend through mid-November. Their specially ticketed fall festival includes a corn maze, wagon rides, live music and yard games, plus access to the Fun Zone attractions, u-pick flower fields and the pumpkin barn. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase, including favorites like apple cider donuts and local craft beer. Please note that tickets must be purchased online and are not available onsite.
Fall Festival at Grande Lakes
Oct. 10 – 11, 2026
Join The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes for their annual Fall Festival, which includes autumnal activities and outdoor fun like pumpkin decorating, canoeing, hands-on crafts, archery, rides on the Grande Lakes Train, a biergarten, live music, and of course, seasonal food and drink available for purchase. The festival is free for overnight resort guests, with additional paid tickets via ResortPass if you’re just stopping by for the day.
Discover: Amenity-Packed Hotels
4Roots Harvest Festival
Oct. 24, 2026
For fall fun near downtown Orlando, just head to 4Roots Farm Campus. Their Annual Harvest Festival features live music, a pumpkin patch, u-pick flowers and vegetables, crafts, a kids zone, and a farmers market complete with food vendors. And since it’s so close to Halloween, they’ll even have costume contests for kids, group costumes and pets.
Fresh October Events for Foodies
Uncorked at Wine Bar George
Select Dates, Oct. 1 – 28, 2026
Experience the only wine bar in Florida helmed by a Master Sommelier with Uncorked, a limited-time culinary series hosted at Wine Bar George at Disney Springs®. October highlights include two wine dinners, a wine tasting, a craft cocktail class, and a pairing workshop dedicated to truffles, pasta and wine.
Origin: Roots at 4Roots Farm Campus
Oct. 1, 2026
4Roots Farm Campus invites you to explore local food, farming and sustainability through hands-on experiences and activities. Their newest offering, Origin, is a chef-led culinary experience featuring a five-course meal served in the heart of the food forest. This is their inaugural Origin event, led by Chef Kevin Fonzo and centered around the autumn harvest. Subsequent events will be hosted by Chef Wendy Lopez of Reyes Mezcaleria on Nov. 12 and Chef Lordfer Lalicon of Kaya on Dec. 10.
Discover: Farm-to-Table Cooking Classes
EPCOT® International Wine & Food Festival
Through Nov. 21, 2026
Tricks and treats aren’t the only things in store this September at Walt Disney World Resort. You can also take a culinary tour around the globe at the EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival, a fan-favorite event featuring traditional cuisine served in immersive, themed settings at EPCOT®. Explore flavors from six continents, embark on a flavorful cheese stroll, and savor fresh sounds with the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
Discover: Fall Food Festivals
Harbor Nights La Dolce Vita
Oct. 16, 2026
If unlimited food and wine in a picturesque harbor are more your style, head to Harbor Nights La Dolce Vita at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. This adults-only evening includes culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants, a handpicked selection of red and white wines, a live band, and a special balcony opera performance. You can also upgrade your ticket to add a VIP reception, reserved seating, and a six-course dinner with wine pairings.
Discover: Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
International Vegan Food Festival
Oct. 24, 2026
Whether you’re fully vegan or just vegan-curious, the International Vegan Food Festival is one of the easiest ways to sample your way around Orlando’s plant-based food scene. This free, family-friendly festival features flavors from across the globe (available for purchase) along with music, live performances, crafts and even a Halloween costume contest with prizes. It’s hosted at Wall Street Plaza in downtown Orlando.
Discover: Vegan & Veggie Dining Guide
Concerts, Arts & Entertainment Events
Major Concerts Coming to Orlando This October
Select Dates, Oct. 6 – 25, 2026
Orlando hosts local talent and global superstars all year long. Some of the biggest names coming to town this October include the Jonas Brothers (Oct. 6), Weezer with special guests The Shins and Silversun Pickups (Oct. 11), Journey (Oct. 17), Teddy Swims (Oct. 22) and SOMBR (Oct. 25), all at Kia Center.
Discover: Gig-Tripping Guide
Madame Butterfly by Opera Orlando
Oct. 2 – 4, 2026
Opera Orlando will open their newest season with a stunning performance of Madame Butterfly, a tragic tale of infatuation, imperialism and maternal instinct set in 1904 Nagasaki. The brand-new production of this classic tale will be performed at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts‘ Steinmetz Hall, one of the most beautiful and acoustically perfect theaters in the world.
6th Annual Latin Festival of Performing Arts
Oct. 12 – 18, 2026
Hosted at the Art & History Museums of Maitland, OpenScene’s Latin Festival of Performing Arts boasts visual arts, workshops, music, opening receptions, film screenings, staged readings and more from Latin and Ibero-American artists. Many events are free or donation-based, with options for both families and adults.
The Sleeping Beauty by Orlando Ballet
Oct. 15 – 18, 2026
Orlando Ballet will begin their 2026-27 season with the timeless tale of The Sleeping Beauty, presented at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. With dazzling choreography and live orchestration from the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, this is one of the most breathtaking ways to see Orlando’s creative community shine. Families can also enjoy a family-friendly performance with whimsical pre-show activities and relaxed re-entry throughout the show at the Oct. 17 matinee.
Fall Jazz & Blues Concert
Oct. 17, 2026
This isn’t your ordinary, seated concert. Harry P. Leu Gardens‘ Fall Jazz & Blues Concert features three bands performing throughout the 50-acre oasis, inviting you to wander the garden at leisure and take in the sights and sounds of an unforgettable night beneath the stars. You’re welcome to bring a picnic dinner, blanket and chairs, or take it easy with light bites and drinks available from Foxtail Coffee, The Gnarly Cuban, The Courtesy Bar and Little Jenny Bakes.
Discover: Orlando Gardens
Events for Sports & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Spartan Race Weekend
Oct. 10 – 11, 2026
The Spartan Race brings rugged obstacles and high-impact challenges to the world of running, and it’s coming to Orlando’s Lake Nona region this fall. Join the fun as a spectator or sign up to test your limits in everything from an obstacle workshop to a super 10K. They even have a special race just for kids.
Discover: Things to Do in Lake Nona
Orlando Solar Bears Season Kickoff
Oct. 18, 2026
Orlando is home to a wide range of pro and semi-pro sports teams, including the Orlando Solar Bears, an ECHL hockey team with matches at Kia Center. Their season kicks off with a chilling match against the Florida Everblades (Oct. 18), and continues with additional games on Oct. 24 (vs. South Carolina Stingrays), Oct. 28 (vs. Florida Everblades) and Oct. 30 (vs. Jacksonville Icemen).
Discover: Orlando Sports
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Oct. 22 – 25, 2026
Centered around the tastes and tales of World Showcase countries, the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon is one of several unique running events hosted at Walt Disney World Resort throughout the year. Race options throughout the weekend include a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and the Disney Wine & Dine Challenge, which includes all three races.
Discover: Orlando Marathons
Free Events in Orlando This October
Fall Family Day & Workshop
Oct. 3, 2026
Enjoy themed art workshops, face painting, a scavenger hunt, sketching and free admission to the Art & History Museums of Maitland during Free Fall Family Day. October’s event includes a watercolor paper lantern workshop inspired by the changing colors and golden daylight of the fall season.
Discover: Free Things to Do
An Evening Under the Stars
Oct. 10, 2026
Join the Orlando Philharmonic for a free evening of music in beautiful Lake Nona. An Evening Under the Stars will also feature local food trucks and family-friendly activities. Picnic blankets are welcome.
17th Annual Dia de los Muertos & Monster Party
Oct. 15, 2026
Celebrate Dia de los Muertos early with a free art exhibition and outdoor experience clustered around downtown Orlando’s CityArts. Admission is free or donation-based, with food trucks, drinks, music, visual performances, art vendors and free museum admission.
Discover: Orlando Galleries & Museums
Come Out With Pride
Oct. 17, 2026
Celebrate love in its many forms during Come Out With Pride, a free, full-day festival hosted in downtown Orlando and Lake Eola Park. Highlights include a parade, live entertainment, fireworks, rallies, a marketplace, family and youth zones, and more events throughout the weekend.
Discover: Come Out With Pride Event Guide
FAQ: Top October Events in Orlando
What are the best events in Orlando in October 2026?
October 2026 brings Halloween celebrations, fall festivals, culinary experiences, concerts, performing arts, sporting events and free community festivals to Orlando. Featured events include major theme park Halloween celebrations, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, concerts at Kia Center, Come Out With Pride, the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend and several family-friendly fall festivals.
What Halloween events are happening in Orlando in October 2026?
Orlando celebrates Halloween with experiences for kids, teens and adults, including family-friendly theme park festivities, trick-or-treating, haunted houses, live arts, concerts, theatrical productions, themed bars and nightlife. October highlights include Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, SeaWorld Spooktacular, Gators, Ghosts and Goblins, Brick or Treat, Halloween Horror Nights, Howl-O-Scream, Nosferatu: The Citadel and Nightmare on Orange. These are just some of the seasonal experiences available throughout the destination. Explore Visit Orlando’s full Halloween Event Guide for more ways to celebrate.
Are there Halloween events in Orlando for different ages and interests?
Yes. Orlando’s Halloween lineup includes playful daytime events, trick-or-treating and entertainment for families, along with haunted houses and other intense experiences designed for teens and adults. Visitors can also discover Halloween concerts and performing arts, themed dining and nightlife, seasonal bars, unconventional Halloween activities and year-round spooky attractions. The events featured in this October guide are only a starting point.
What fall festivals and seasonal activities are happening near Orlando in October 2026?
October visitors can enjoy pumpkin patches, u-pick fields, crafts, live music and other autumn activities at seasonal events near Orlando. Featured options include the Fall Festival at Southern Hill Farms on select dates through Nov. 22, the Fall Festival at Grande Lakes on Oct. 10 and 11, and the 4Roots Harvest Festival near downtown Orlando on Oct. 24. Activities and admission requirements vary by event.
Are there pumpkin patches and u-pick experiences near Orlando?
Yes. The Fall Festival at Southern Hill Farms includes a pumpkin barn and u-pick flower fields, while the 4Roots Harvest Festival offers a pumpkin patch and u-pick flowers and vegetables. Both events also feature additional activities, food and entertainment.
What food and wine events are happening in Orlando in October 2026?
Orlando’s October culinary calendar includes wine dinners and workshops at Wine Bar George, a chef-led dinner at 4Roots Farm Campus, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, Harbor Nights La Dolce Vita and the International Vegan Food Festival. Together, these events offer experiences ranging from paired dinners and hands-on workshops to global festival flavors and free community celebrations.
Are there Orlando food events for different tastes and budgets?
Yes. October options range from specially ticketed wine dinners and premium culinary experiences to free festivals where food is available for purchase. Visitors can explore global cuisine at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, plant-based dishes at the International Vegan Food Festival, wine-focused programming at Wine Bar George and a five-course, chef-led meal at 4Roots Farm Campus.
What concerts and live performances are coming to Orlando in October 2026?
October’s entertainment calendar includes major concerts, opera, ballet, Latin and Ibero-American performing arts, and live jazz and blues. Featured performers and productions include the Jonas Brothers, Weezer with The Shins and Silversun Pickups, Journey, Teddy Swims, SOMBR, Opera Orlando’s Madame Butterfly, Orlando Ballet’s The Sleeping Beauty, the Latin Festival of Performing Arts and the Fall Jazz & Blues Concert at Harry P. Leu Gardens.
Are there performing arts events in Orlando for families?
Yes. Orlando Ballet’s Oct. 17 matinee of The Sleeping Beauty offers whimsical preshow activities and relaxed re-entry during the performance. The Latin Festival of Performing Arts also includes options for families and adults, with many events offered free or on a donation basis. Families can find additional live music at An Evening Under the Stars, a free outdoor concert in Lake Nona on Oct. 10.
What sports and outdoor events are happening in Orlando in October 2026?
Active visitors and sports fans can choose from obstacle racing, hockey, running events and outdoor concerts. October highlights include Spartan Race Weekend in Lake Nona, Orlando Solar Bears games at Kia Center, the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, the Fall Jazz & Blues Concert at Harry P. Leu Gardens and An Evening Under the Stars in Lake Nona.
Can visitors participate in Orlando sporting events in October?
Yes. Spartan Race Weekend offers opportunities ranging from an obstacle workshop to a Super 10K, along with a dedicated children’s race. The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend includes a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and the Disney Wine & Dine Challenge, which combines all three races. Registration and participation requirements vary by event.
What free events are happening in Orlando in October 2026?
Featured free events include Fall Family Day & Workshop at the Art & History Museums of Maitland on Oct. 3, An Evening Under the Stars in Lake Nona on Oct. 10, the Día de los Muertos & Monster Party in downtown Orlando on Oct. 15, Come Out With Pride on Oct. 17 and the International Vegan Food Festival on Oct. 24. All events are free or donation-based, while food, drinks and optional activities may cost extra.
Are there free family-friendly events in Orlando in October?
Yes. Free Fall Family Day includes art workshops, face painting, a scavenger hunt, sketching and admission to the Art & History Museums of Maitland. An Evening Under the Stars features live music, food trucks and family-friendly activities in Lake Nona, while Come Out With Pride includes designated family and youth zones as part of its full-day downtown festival.
How can I plan an Orlando trip around October events?
Start by choosing the experiences that best suit your group, such as Halloween events, fall festivals, concerts, food experiences, performing arts, sports or free community celebrations. Then review individual event details, dates and ticket requirements before visiting. Visit Orlando’s Vacation Planners provide complimentary personalized assistance, and OPAL, Visit Orlando’s AI planning assistant, can help organize an Orlando getaway.
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