The Ultimate Guide to Orlando in October 2024: Events, Festivals, and More
October is one of the most magical months to visit Orlando, as it transforms into a vibrant hub of festivals, spooky celebrations, and world-class entertainment. Whether you’re a theme park enthusiast, food lover, or Halloween fanatic, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of Orlando in October 2024!
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Location: Magic Kingdom
Dates: Select nights through October 2024
Experience Halloween Disney-style with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! This family-friendly event features trick-or-treating, exclusive entertainment like the Boo-to-You Halloween Parade and Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, character meet-and-greets in Halloween costumes, and festive fireworks with the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular. Costumes are encouraged, and the whole park transforms into a Halloween wonderland, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Location: Epcot
Dates: Through mid-November 2024
Indulge in global flavors at the International Food & Wine Festival at Epcot, where you can sample dishes from around the world. Enjoy over 25 global marketplaces, live music, culinary demonstrations, and unique wine pairings. In October, this festival really hits its stride, offering the perfect blend of autumn flavors and seasonal specialties.
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios
Location: Universal Studios Orlando
Dates: Select nights through October 2024
For those who love a good scare, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios is a must-do. This event features terrifying haunted houses, scare zones, and live entertainment, all set in a nightmarish atmosphere. With themes inspired by popular horror films and TV shows, it’s not for the faint of heart, but horror lovers will revel in the chilling experience.
SeaWorld’s Spooktacular
Location: SeaWorld Orlando
Dates: Weekends through October 2024
Perfect for families, SeaWorld’s Spooktacular offers a less spooky, more playful Halloween experience. Enjoy daytime trick-or-treating, Halloween-themed shows, and meet-and-greets with characters like Count von Count. With lots of candy and colorful characters, it’s a great way for little ones to join in on the Halloween fun.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando
Location: SeaWorld Orlando
Dates: Select nights through October 2024
Looking for a more intense Halloween experience? Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld brings the frights with haunted houses, scare zones, and sinister live performances. It’s an after-dark event that combines the thrill of the sea with the chills of Halloween, making it one of the spookiest events in Orlando.
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon
Location: Walt Disney World Resort
Dates: November 1-3, 2024 (Expo and related events in late October)
End October with a bang by participating in the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon weekend. Runners and spectators alike can enjoy fitness expos, pre-race celebrations, and post-race parties featuring food, drinks, and entertainment. It’s the perfect mix of fitness and fun!
Local Orlando Events in October 2024
- Orlando Film Festival (October 31-November 7) – Independent films and thought-provoking documentaries take center stage at this festival.
- Orlando Pride Parade and Festival (October 19) – Celebrate love, diversity, and inclusivity in downtown Orlando with a vibrant parade, live entertainment, and vendor booths.
- Winter Park Autumn Art Festival (October 12-13) – A juried art festival featuring local artists in the scenic streets of Winter Park.
Sporting Events in Orlando in October 2024
- Orlando Magic NBA Season Opener – Cheer on the Magic as the NBA season kicks off.
- Orlando City SC – Major League Soccer continues through October, with Orlando City SC battling it out at Exploria Stadium.
- UCF Knights Football – College football is in full swing, with home games taking place at the Bounce House Stadium.
- Orlando Pride – Catch National Women’s Soccer League action as the Orlando Pride wrap up their season.
- Orlando Solar Bears – Check out Orlando’s very own hockey team as they take on some of their biggest opponents
Events at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in October 2024
- October 4 – Rocky Horror Picture Show 49th Anniversary Spectacular Tour with Barry Bostwick (18+)
- October 5 – Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert
- October 5 – Ms. Pat
- October 6 – Loossemble 2024 Concert in U.S
- October 7 – Lyle Lovett and his Large Band
- October 10 – 12 – Phantasmagoria XV: Grim and Grimmer Tales
- October 12 – 13 – Opening Night featuring Aoife O’Donovan
- October 12 – Ben Rector
- October 17 – 20 – Orlando Ballet Presents Romeo & Juliet
- October 18 – Emmanuel
- October 19 – Sonic Symphony
- October 22 – 27 – THE BOOK OF MORMON
- October 25 & 27 – Opera Orlando Presents Macbeth
- October 29 – 30 – Princeton Entertainment Group Presents National Ballet of Ukraine US Tour
- October 29 – Stephen Sanchez with Special Guest The Paper Kites
- October 31 – November 3 – Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical
Events at the Kia Center (formerly Amway Center) in October 2024
- October 4 – Orlando Salsa Festival
- October 5 – Freestyle Free for All Tour
- October 6- Charli XCX & Troye Sivan
- October 12 – Gold Over America Tour with Simone Biles
- October 13 – Yandel
- October 17 – Myke Towers
- October 20 – Camilo
- October 24 – Sabrina Carpenter
- October 30 – Maverick City Music
Make the Most of Your October 2024 Orlando Adventure
Whether you’re enjoying world-class Halloween events, sipping wine at Epcot, or catching an NBA game, Orlando in October 2024 is packed with experiences to remember. Plan ahead to fit in your favorite events, and be sure to check local schedules for updates!
Let the magic of Orlando sweep you off your feet this October! And if you’re in town on vacation staying in an Airbnb or vacation rental, contact Magical Arrivals, your Orlando vacation rental concierge service!
