Your Central Florida Events Calendar
Winter is nearly upon us. The days are getting cooler, and the nights are getting longer. Still, even though the mercury is dropping in many areas of the country, the central Florida events calendar is really starting to heat up. There’s truly no end of great things to do here this time of year.
Looking for some amazing ways to entertain yourself this season? Take a look at our handy guide to some of the best goings-on in and around the region.
Catch a Drive-In Movie
What’s the first thing that pops into your mind when you hear the words “drive-in”? If you’re like most Americans, you’ll envision the classic drive-in movie theater. Drive-ins have been enjoying something of a resurgence in popularity as of late, and thanks to our famously mild climate that allows for year-round screenings, central Florida has long played host to some great drive-in experiences. You’ll want to check out the Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland, the Ocala Drive-In in Ocala, Dade City’s Joy-Lan Drive-In, and the Ruskin Family Drive-In for an old-fashioned moviegoing good time.
Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair
Enjoy a bounty of botanical beauty at this green get-together. After taking last year off for safety reasons, the Plant & Garden Fair is back and better than ever. Attendees will have an opportunity to check out some fantastic flora, and add to their collections. Much in the way of crafts, art and even furniture will also be available to interested attendees. Snacks and refreshments will also be available, so making a day out of perusing the plants is a great way to get out. The Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair takes place November 12–14 in Mount Dora’s Donnelly Park.
35th Annual Festival of Trees Orlando
One of Orlando’s most treasured holiday traditions returns for its 35th year. The Festival of Trees isn’t just a spirited yuletide display of designer-decorated trees, wreaths, gingerbread houses and other holiday items, it’s also a fundraiser for the Orlando Museum of Art. Visitors can also look forward to a silent auction, a vendor village offering festive holiday items and a toyland for the kids. Don’t miss breakfast with Santa! The event runs Nov.13–21 this year.
The Casements Antique Car Show
Central Florida’s year-round perfect weather makes us a national hot spot for classic cars. Nowhere is that more evident than at the Casements Antique Car Show in Ormond Beach. The event celebrates its 63rd year in 2021, and will bring together vintage auto enthusiasts, and classic owners for a massive display of automotive history. Get up close and personal with these chrome-drenched beauties at Fortunato Park while enjoying vendors, refreshments and more. The event takes place November 26–27.
Magic of Lights Daytona
This brilliant holiday display will be in full, brightly-lit effect from November 19 through January 1. More than one million lights will be merrily twinkling in a series of festive displays over a more than two-mile course for spectators to enjoy from the safety of their vehicle. When you go, expect everything from traditional arrays to the latest in computer-controlled LED animation and special effects. Of course, Santra himself will be making an appearance, so be sure to bring the entire family.
Holidays at LEGOLand Florida
There’s never a bad time to visit LEGOLand Florida, but the holidays may be one of the best. The entire park celebrates the yuletide spirit with special characters, entertainment, unique treats, and a dazzling light display. Multiple holiday-only displays make for perfect family photo ops, and the 30-foot tree made entirely of LEGO bricks is a sight to behold. Santa will be on hand to hear kids’ holiday wishes, too. Special events take place from November 26–December 31.
