Welcome to 2026! Winter weather is here and there are plenty of classic date ideas to enjoy. And if you're participating in Dry January, there is no shortage of sober date ideas. Let's take a look at the best events and things to do this week.

Updated multiple times each week by Nancy DeVault, Dani Meyering, and Kelly Lamano Diaz

Featured Events

Giving an extra shoutout to the following events, which help us to bring this guide to you for FREE!

From My Hometown

Dates: January 23 to February 21
Showtimes: 2 p.m. matinees, Wed – Sun & 7:30 p.m. on Friday & Saturdays
Winter Park Playhouse in the Mandell Theater at Orlando Shakes
Cost: Tickets $20 – $47

It's the Southeastern Regional Premiere! This critically acclaimed Off-Broadway musical is a “rags to riches” tale of three young man just off the bus from their hit-record producing hometowns – Philly, Memphis and Detroit – as they meet at the world famous Apollo Theatre. The score features 60's and 70's R&B classic hits made famous by Otis Redding, Sam Cook, James Brown and more!

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Dates: January 24 to February 15
Showtimes: 1 p.m., 7 p.m., & 7:30 p.m.
Location: Walt Disney Theater, Dr. Phillips Center
Cost: Tickets start at $62.32

Join the next adventure and experience the wizarding world like never before with this record-breaking hit and winner of six Tony Awards including Best Play. “It’s one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade” (Forbes). When Harry Potter’s head-strong son Albus befriends the son of his fiercest rival, Draco Malfoy, it sparks an unbelievable new journey for them all—with the power to change the past and future forever. Prepare for a mind-blowing race through time, spectacular spells and an epic battle, all brought to life with the most astonishing theatrical magic ever seen on stage.

Events This Week: Things to Do January 5 – January 11, 2026

Illuminate at Aquatica

Date: Select nights through January 31, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (last entry 9:15 p.m.)
Location: Aquatica Orlando
Cost: Separately ticketed event, $25 – $30

Illuminate transforms Aquatica into a glowing nighttime walk-through with towering lantern displays, themed zones inspired by water and nature, festive bites, s’mores by the fire, and specialty bars offering both cocktails and mocktails. It’s a relaxed, dry-walk holiday experience with plenty of space to stroll, take photos, and soak in the lights.

Flamingo Lanterns and Christmas Lights at ILLUMINATE Aquatica - image by Dani Meyering — Flamingo Lanterns and Christmas Lights at ILLUMINATE Aquatica – image by Dani Meyering

Winter Mini-Fest

Dates: Wednesday, January 7 through Sunday, January 11, 2026
Location: Orlando Shakes, 812 E Rollins St, Orlando, FL 32803
Cost: Tickets starting at $15, and a one-time purchase of a $3 button

The Florida Theatrical Association is celebrating 10 years of winter festivals with a fun-sized dose of all things Fringe. This cozy, curated version of the May festival will feature popular works from past festivals, new works from well-received Fringe artists, and brand-new creatives scouted from the national and international Fringe circuit.

Cornhole Tournament

Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026, 7pm
Location: BarkHaven, 724 Brookhaven Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Cost: FREE to play, sign up at the host stand

Grab a partner and toss your way through this cornhole tournament. Enjoy drink specials for all players. Tournament-style bracket. Get here early, sign up, and let’s toss some bags.

Art Adventures: Collage Portraits

Date: Friday, January 9, 2026, 10:30am-12pm
Location: Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave. Orlando, FL 32803
Cost:
- One Adult and One Child, Non-members: $20.00
- One Adult and One Child, Members: $18.00
- Additional Adults: $10.00 (additional adults who are Museum Members are free)
- Additional Child: $10.00

Kick off the new year with markers, paper, and a little bit of glue! Explore the elements of shape, line, and color to create a portrait collage. Gain inspiration for your collage by viewing Deborah Roberts’ portrait of a young boy titled “Speak.” Think about ways in which your collage can speak without saying any words!

Throwbacks on Tap: Disney Channel Edition

Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026, 7pm-10pm
Location: Home State Brewing Co., 16016 New Independence Pkwy #100, Winter Garden, Florida 34787
Cost: FREE admission

Cue the wand…it’s time to jump back in time at Throwbacks on Tap: Disney Channel Edition! Break out the Disney tees, grab your ears, and get ready to dance and sing along all night! Featuring DJ KD Queen, photo ops, food, and drinks. All ages welcome.

The Coffee Fiesta

Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026, Doors open at 11:11am
Location: Skylounge Rooftop at the Kia Center, 400 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801
Cost: $64.79

Join for a special Coffee Fiesta x Orlando Magic experience, blending daytime vibes with Reggaetón, Afro House and Salsa in a high-energy social atmosphere! Ticket includes: Access to The Coffee Fiesta, Orlando Magic game entry, and complimentary appetizers. Ages 21+ only.

Three Kings Day

Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026, 10am-2pm
Location: Old Town, 5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Cost: FREE admission

The Feast of the Three Kings is an intricate part of Latin Folklore. Traditionally, this day is very important, especially for children, for it is on this eve that they will receive their gifts. The celebration will include a visit from the Three Kings, free hot dogs, free popcorn, cotton candy or snow cones, and a toy for children under 11. Bikes and tablets will be given away by raffle throughout the event.

Next Week: Things to Do January 12 – January 18, 2026

Speed Friending: Plant Lovers Edition

Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 7pm-9pm
Location: BookBurn Cafe and Social, 2425 E South St, Orlando, FL 32803
Cost: FREE

Share plant tips, make some friends, sip a little treat, and vibe together! Join fellow plant parents, green thumbs, and garden gossips for a fun night.

À La Craft

Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026, 6pm-8pm
Location: À La Cart – Milk District, 609 Irvington Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
Cost: FREE to join

The January free craft of the month from Craft Club Orlando is 2026 Vision Boards and Bingo Cards. Craft club is bring your own craft (all crafts are welcome) or feel free to borrow supplies! They'll have cardstock, markers, glue, scissors, stickers, and some magazines/photos. They encourage you to bring your own printed photos as well, to make your vision come to life.

BarkHaven's Singles Night

Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026, 7pm-9pm
Location: BarkHaven, 724 Brookhaven Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Cost: FREE for humans to attend, $10 weekday day pass for one pup ($5 per additional pup)

It's a relaxed night to mingle, meet new people, and enjoy the vibes. Come with your dog or without one. Both welcome. There will be a few self-guided activities set up around the space to help spark conversation naturally. Join in as much or as little as you want. Nothing forced, just good energy. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, this might be the perfect time to put yourself out there or simply enjoy the night and see where it takes you. Plus, your first drink is free.

Speed Friending: Hobbyists Edition

Date: Friday, January 16, 2026, 6pm-8pm
Location: Lobos Coffee Roasters, 3000 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Cost: FREE

Whether you collect plushies, paint tiny dragons, shred on guitar, or casually crochet questionable creatures… this night is for you. Meet friends who share your hobbies!

Paranormal Cirque

Dates: January 16–19, 2026
Location: Oviedo Mall

The secret is officially out… and things are about to get weird. Paranormal Cirque is coming to Oviedo Mall in January 2026, and this is not your average circus. If you like your entertainment bold, twisted, and unforgettable, this one’s for you. More details coming soon… if you dare to wait.

Sami’s Star-Spangled Celebration

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026, 10am-1pm
Location: Peghorn Nature Park, 2101 Peghorn Way, St Cloud, FL 34769
Cost: FREE admission

Enjoy patriotic crafts, a live DJ, inflatables, face painting, and much more!

Florida Manatee Festival

Dates: Saturday, January 17, 2026, 9am-5pm, & Sunday, January 18, 2026, 9am-4pm
Location: Downtown Crystal River, 532 N Citrus Ave, Crystal River, FL 34428 – Worth the drive!
Cost: $10 per adult, FREE for kids 12 and under

Located in the Manatee Capital of the World, the Florida Manatee Festival is an annual event held every January in beautiful downtown Crystal River. The festival boasts two days of live entertainment, discounted opportunities for guided manatee boat tours and kayak tours in Kings Bay, children's activities, delicious food, and hundreds of vendors selling their wares! For a discounted ticket on Sunday, look for the special coupon in the Citrus County Chronicle on January 17th, offering $5 off per person for up to four adult admissions.

Weekly Ongoing Orlando Events

Happy Hour + Art @TheFalconBar

Dates: Mondays from 6:30-10pm
Location: The Falcon Bar & Gallery, 819 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801
Cost: FREE Admission

Local vibes. Awesome people. Enjoy Happy Hour adult libations while viewing local art at one of Orlando’s favorite local spots for creatives!

AC Orlando Downtown Express Lunch

Dates: Lunch served Tuesday-Friday, 11am-3pm
Location: 333 S. Garland Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Cost: $18

Introducing AC Hotel's new Express Lunch—crafted for those on the go but unwilling to compromise on flavor. For just $18, enjoy a chef-inspired entrée and a non-alcoholic beverage, all guaranteed to be served within 20 minutes of ordering. Perfect for a power lunch or a quick catch-up, it's speed without sacrifice. Available Tuesday-Friday—because great taste shouldn't have to wait.

Tasty Takeover in The Milk District

Dates: Tuesdays from 6:30pm-10pm
Location: The Milk District – E. Robinson St
Cost: FREE Admission

THE food truck block party in Orlando! Find it in The Milk District every Tuesday night behind the bars and shops of E. Robinson St.

Game & Hobby Night at The Burrow

Dates: Tuesdays, 5pm-8pm
Location: The Burrow Cafe & Play, Mills area

Bring along your favorite game, knitting project, book, or enjoy one of the games available at The Burrow. Come relax, be playful, and enjoy your favorite hobby or discover a new one. Free to attend and drink specials available.

Luminary Market

Date: First Wednesday of every month, 5:30pm-9pm
Location: Luminary Green Park in Creative Village

Explore 20-25 local vendors featuring unique, curated goods and support our growing community of residents, students, and workers. Stick around after shopping for KaleidoScope 360°, an outdoor movie series where you can enjoy family-friendly films under the stars! Showtime is at 7pm.

Wine Wednesdays at NORMAN’S Orlando

Dates: Wednesdays from 5:30pm-7:30pm
Location: 7924 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando, FL 32819

Head to NORMAN’s on Wednesdays for summer specials featuring 30% off select bottles of wine, curated by their Sommelier! Plus, try their new “Flights & Bites” offering hand-picked Red, White, and Sparkling Wines paired to complement the Chef-curated Bites Menu. You can also book a 15-minute tasting session with our Sommelier to learn about wines, regions, and pairing suggestions (complimentary tastings included). Can’t go on a Wednesday? NORMAN’S offers daily Happy Hour from 5-7 p.m. with dinner available until 10 p.m.

Cirque du Soleil “Drawn to Life”

Dates: Wednesdays – Sundays
Location: Cirque du Soleil Orlando, 1478 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Performances of “Drawn to Life” take place on most nights at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Go for the later show if you prefer to potentially have less kids in attendance. Additionally, it will give you more time to enjoy Disney Springs before the show.

Late Night Thursdays

Dates: Thursdays, 5pm-8pm
Location: Leu Gardens
Cost: $15 per adult, $10 per child

Bring a picnic & seating, sip some spirits, or take a stroll through the gardens and discover the amazing ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN exhibit. Included with general admission. Rain or shine.

Pottery Night

Date: One Thursday Every Month, from 6:30pm-8pm
Location: 8602 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

Discover the magic of pottery in this 2-hour group session at the Castle Hotel! Guided by a skilled instructor, you’ll master the basics of throwing clay on the pottery wheel and create your very own unique piece. From shaping the clay to glazing for a polished finish, this experience offers hands-on fun from start to finish.

Piano Bar Show at Jewel

Dates: Friday and Saturday Nights
Location: Jewel Orlando
Cost: FREE admission with password

Dueling Piano players take the stage for a fun night of song requests and sing-alongs! Call (321) 444-5306 after 5pm to get your password for speakeasy entry.

2nd Fridays at Flamingo Crossings Town Center: Holiday Edition

Dates: Second Friday of every month, from 6pm-9pm
Location: Flamingo Crossings Town Center, 153 Sugar Belle Dr, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (closest to Lime Fresh Mexican Grill)
Cost: FREE admission

Holiday Edition is back on December 12th! Save the date and share it with your friends. This event will feature snow on Main Street, brand-new holiday lighting, holiday crafts & ornament making, decorating the community tree, DJ Bubbles playing holiday classics, yard games, samples, and giveaways. Plus, grab a bite and a beverage from the many restaurants on-site.

Makers Market at Forward/Slash Distillery

Date: The Last Saturday of Every Month, from 2pm-6pm
Location: 650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Support your local Orlando makers at Forward/Slash Distillery’s monthly Makers Market. Hosted by Orlando Local Makers, this event features the best of vendors who craft and make various items, goods, trinkets, and gifts. Food will be served by Bien Fuego BBQ for some light bites while you shop. Free to attend!

Weekends at the Winery

Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-5pm (Sat) & 11am-5pm (Sun)
Location: Lakeridge Winery
Cost: FREE admission

Head to this Central Florida winery's expansive vineyard green each weekend for delicious food, live entertainment, complimentary wine tastings/tours, and Lakeridge wines by the glass at the outdoor bar. Plus, delicious food at the Food Pavilion, as well as live music all weekend long.

Check out multiple Farmers' Markets around Orlando every weekend.

Saturday Exhibition Highlights Docent-Led Tour

Dates: Every Saturday, 1pm & 3pm
Location: Rollins Museum of Art
Cost: FREE

Docent-led tours of highlighted works from the season’s exhibitions at the Rollins Museum of Art.

Dinks & Drinks

Dates: Every Saturday, 6:30pm-9:30pm
Location: ClearOne Sports Centre, 4141 N. John Young Parkway, Suite 3, Orlando
Cost: $20 per person

Open courts for casual drop-in play. Includes 1 free drink (Beer, High Noon, or Soda). Paddle rentals are available for $5. Tennis shoes required. Different music theme each week. No partner? No experience? No problem. This is the perfect night to bring a friend, meet new people, or just vibe with the community.

Tai Chi in the Garden

Dates: Every Saturday, 10:30am-11:30am
Location: Mead Botanical Garden, 1300 S. Denning Dr, Winter Park
Cost: $15

A gentle exercise program that is composed of slow deliberate movements, meditation, and deep breathing to enhance health and well-being.

For even more things to do in Orlando, check out these top stories:

Later This Month

Speed Friending: Gamer Edition

Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 7pm-9pm
Location: Lazy Moon Pizza Maitland, 441 S Orlando Ave, Maitland, FL 32751
Cost: FREE

Mark your calendars and come meet your next favorite people! Enjoy a night of speed friending and gaming, where you can meet new peeps, share your favorite multiplayer games, and have a night of fun.

Kaleidoscope 360° & Luminary Market – Movie Night: La La Land

Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Market from 5:30pm-9pm, Movie showtime at 7pm
Location: Luminary Green Park, 437 N Terry Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Cost: FREE

Enjoy an evening of community, shopping, and cinema! Explore unique vendors featuring local favorites and curated goods, supporting Creative Village’s vibrant community. Plus, experience a free, family-friendly outdoor movie series featuring stunning LED visuals and immersive sound. This month's movie: “La La Land.”

Dog Day at Leu Gardens

Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 9am-3pm
Location: Leu Gardens
Cost: $15/adult, $10/child, $5/dog, FREE for children under 4, active military, and members

Bring the entire family, including your lovable canine, and enjoy a playful adventure through the 50-acre gardens. Each pup will receive a complimentary goody bag featuring a Gardens bandana, while supplies last. Peruse the Doggie Boutique from 9am-12pm, featuring treats, toys, and apparel. Capture a special keepsake by making a commemorative paw print of your pup’s paw. Plus, participate in one or all three contests. Register your dog at the Gardens before contest time: Cupid's Canine Contest at 10am (dress your pup in the cutest Valentine's style), Terrific Trick at 10:30am, and Best Kisser at 11am. Winners will receive a pooch prize pack!

Starry, Starry Night: A Celebration Of Art And Science

Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am-8:30pm
Location: Bok Tower, 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales, Florida 33853
Cost: FREE for members, $20 for non-member adults, and $10 for non-member children ages 6 – 17, FREE for Children 5 and under (Includes Admission)

Join for a magical evening under the stars, celebrating science and art! Experience the wonders of the night sky with telescopes guided by local astronomers, enjoy captivating space-themed presentations from leading experts, awesome hands-on activities, animals, connect with a NASA ambassador, and more.

Science on Tap

Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026, VIP enters at 12pm, General admission from 1pm-4pm
Location: Orlando Science Center
Cost: Tickets start at $25 per person

Hop in for an afternoon of brews, food, and science while supporting a good cause! This fundraiser features over 30 local breweries from around Central Florida who will be sampling some of their best brews. Enjoy this family-friendly event as you sip your way through interactive science demos, challenge your kids or your friends to fun lawn games, and delight in a few tasty treats purchased from several popular food trucks. Proceeds from this event enable Orlando Science Center to inspire science learning for all through engaging experiences that build important skills and illustrate the power of science to address real-world challenges. This event is open to all ages, but minors must be supervised at all times. Minors 16 years or older must have a valid “Designated Driver/No Alcohol” ticket and be with a paying 21+ guest to enter.

Looking Ahead 2026

St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival

Dates:
- Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 Tapas, Wine & Spirits
- Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 Cava Reception & Wine Pairing Dinner
- Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 Grand Tasting
Location: Flagler College
Cost: Tickets start at $100

The St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of Spanish wine, cuisine, and culture, honoring the city’s deep Spanish roots. Guests enjoy fine wines, authentic flavors, and live entertainment while supporting Flagler College Hospitality & Tourism Management students. All proceeds directly fund scholarships, study-abroad programs, and professional development opportunities.

Thursday night features Spanish-inspired cuisine and beverages in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Friday night includes an evening of fine dining and music in the exclusive Ponce de Leon Hall Flagler Room and Solarium. Meanwhile, guests at Saturday's Grand Tasting will enjoy sampling 100+ Spanish wines set against the historic backdrop of Flagler College’s Markland House. New for 2026: Add an instructor-led wine seminar to your Grand Tasting ticket for an additional fee.

Matcha Fest

Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Location: Wall Street Plaza, Downtown Orlando

Attention, matcha lovers! Orlando will be the first stop on the National Tour for Matcha Fest! Enjoy matcha drinks, vendors, art, community vibes, and a full day celebrating all things green. RSVP to get first access when tickets go live.

Lake Nona Art Festival

Dates: Saturday, February 21, 2026 (10am-6pm) & Sunday, February 22 (10am-4pm)
Location: Lake Nona Town Center

Experience a vibrant two-day art festival at Lake Nona Town Center in Orlando, Florida, on February 21 & 22. Explore a curated collection of local and national artists showcasing diverse art across mediums and styles, all available for purchase. Discover stunning paintings, sculptures, photography, and handcrafted jewelry that showcase exceptional talent and creativity.

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