Harvest Happenings: Fall Festivals in Central Florida

When the Florida heat finally begins to subside and a hint of coolness refreshes the air, it can only mean one thing: fall has arrived! While the Sunshine State may not have the quintessential changing of the leaves or crisp autumn nights, fall in Central Florida is nothing short of spectacular. From family-friendly events to spooky haunts, picturesque pumpkin patches, and lively Oktoberfest celebrations, Orlando and the surrounding area offer a variety of seasonal experiences perfect for an autumn adventure. So, grab your pumpkin spice latte and check out these fun fall festivals in Central Florida.

7 family-friendly events in Central Florida

1. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

If you’re visiting Orlando in the fall, you must attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World® Resort. Offered on select evenings through October 31, 2024, from 7:00 pm to midnight, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a spooktacular celebration for ghouls of all ages. The park transforms with Halloween-themed decorations, lighting, and music, creating a festive atmosphere without the usual fright. Special character meet-and-greets, many featuring Disney villains or characters in unique costumes, are highlights of the event. Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout the park, a Halloween parade called "Mickey's Boo-to-You Parade," and the stunning "Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular" fireworks show.

Note: According to the official website, tickets for the 2024 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are sold out. However, sometimes tickets become available for specific nights, even if they are listed as “sold out.” We recommend checking with the concierge at your Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel for last-minute ticket availability—which is another perk of staying at Caribe Royale Orlando!

2. EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival Presented by CORKCICLE

Another can’t-miss fall festival in Central Florida is the EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival Presented by CORKCICLE at Walt Disney World® Resort. Running until November 23, 2024, the world-renowned festival brings together culinary delights from around the globe in a celebration of flavor and culture. Guests can savor expertly crafted dishes and beverages from over 30 global marketplaces, each offering unique cuisine from various countries and regions. In addition to tasting experiences, the festival offers live cooking demonstrations, wine and beverage tastings, and workshops hosted by celebrity chefs. Eat to the Beat, a nightly concert series running through November 18, 2024, offers guests the chance to dance and sing the night away with well-known artists and local talent. The festival does not require special event tickets. You just need to have a standard theme park ticket to enter EPCOT®.

3. German American Society of Central Florida Oktoberfest

The German American Society of Central Florida's Oktoberfest is touted as the “biggest and most authentic Oktoberfest event in Orlando.” Held annually on October 26, 2024—this festival offers a vibrant blend of traditional German music, dance, food, and of course, plenty of beer! Guests can enjoy hearty German fare, like bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, and strudel while sipping on German brews and domestic favorites. The event features live performances by traditional oompah bands, lively folk dancing, and fun activities like stein-holding contests. Perfect for families, there are also kid-friendly zones and activities. Tickets are $5 per person and children 11 and under are free.

4. Southern Hill Farms Fall Festival

The Southern Hill Farms Fall Festival in Clermont is a beloved annual event that celebrates the season with a kid’s zone, corn maze, wagon rides, live music, u-pick fields, and local food. The 9th annual festival is each Thursday through Sunday until November 17, 2024. This festival offers guests the opportunity to enjoy pumpkin season on the farm. Don't worry if football season is just as important as pumpkin season. Games will be showcased on TVs in the food truck barn. Admission tickets start at $21.95 and must be purchased online in advance. The festival does sell out on certain days so make sure you plan.

5. Happy Frights and Haunting Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens

On select nights through Halloween, October 31, 2024, Happy Frights and Haunting Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens is an immersive and thrilling Halloween experience like no other in Central Florida. This annual event transforms the serene botanical gardens into a spine-chilling world of mystery and eerie beauty. As night falls, guests are invited to explore winding garden pathways illuminated by haunting lights and spooky decor, with ghostly surprises lurking at every turn. Designed for thrill-seekers and Halloween enthusiasts, Happy Frights and Haunting Nights offers a family-friendly scare factor with ghoulish live actors, fog-filled scenes, and spooky storytelling. In addition to the eerie walk, guests can enjoy seasonal food and drinks from local vendors, making it a perfect evening for all ages. Tickets are $26 for adults and $24 for children, but discounts are available for groups.

6. Amber Brooke Farms Fall Festival

The Amber Brooke Farms Fall Festival is a charming autumnal event that invites families and friends to celebrate the joys of the season in a picturesque farm setting. Nestled in the heart of Florida's countryside in Eustis—a 45-minute drive from Orlando—the Amber Brooke Farms Fall Festival runs on Saturdays and Sundays until November 3, 2024. Guests can wander through sprawling pumpkin patches, navigate through intricate corn mazes, and enjoy scenic hayrides around the farm. The festival also features a vibrant sunflower field ideal for photo opportunities, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting, two playgrounds, a jump pad, live music, and delicious seasonal treats from local food vendors.

7. Annual Fall Fiesta in the Park

The Annual Fall Fiesta in the Park is a vibrant annual event that takes place in Lake Eola Park in Orlando. Held this year on November 2-3, 2024, the family-friendly festival celebrates the sights, sounds, and flavors of the autumn season. From local artisan booths showcasing handmade crafts and artwork to delicious food trucks serving seasonal treats and live entertainment, including musical performances, dance acts, and interactive activities for kids, the Fall Fiesta in the Park is the perfect weekend outing for families and friends.

Book your fall getaway to Caribe Royale Orlando

Escape to Caribe Royale Orlando this fall for a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and seasonal charm. Whether you're lounging by the sparkling pool, indulging in a spa day, or savoring delicious chef-inspired dishes at the one of the resort’s eight dining options, Caribe Royale Orlando is the ultimate destination for both luxurious comfort and fun. Plus, as a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel located just minutes from the Disney parks and festive events, such as the EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival, Caribe Royale Orlando puts you in the heart of Orlando’s autumn magic.

Book your stay here.