Orlando Event Calendar: November 2023
We've rounded up the best events in November and beyond!
Holiday Events
MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY
Through Nov. 1: Disney’s chillingly heartwarming party gently spooks your little ones after regular park hours. It’s a costume party, so dress up and sink your teeth into the not-terribly terrifying parades, stage shows, special effects, projections, music, food and beverages and, of course, bewitching fireworks. 7 p.m. Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com
SCOTT’S MAZE ADVENTURES
SCOTT’S MAZE ADVENTURES
Through Nov. 26: Get lost in a pirate-themed giant maze of corn stalks covering 6.5 acres in Lake County. Once you’re done stalking, try out the mini mazes, zip lines, hay rides, tours, food vendors, playground and more. Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Long & Scott Farms, 26216 C.R. 448A, Mount Dora. 352-383-6900. longandscottfarms.com
PAINTED OAKS ACADEMY CORN MAZE
Nov. 1-30: Lake Pickett Road in east Orlando sets the mood with events both heartwarming and haunted. On the weekends, Painted Oaks breaks out the pony rides, petting area, moonlight and haunted hay rides, barbecues and vendors. Festivities are Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Buy tickets online. Prices vary according to age.15239 and 15100 Lake Pickett Road, Orlando. 407-929-0970. paintedoaksacademy.com | cornmazeorlando.com
MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY
Nov. 9-Dec. 22: Make some very merry memories in the Magic Kingdom amid the snow and splendor of the holidays. Mickey and friends welcome guests with a seasonal parade, fireworks, treats, musical shows and rocking Christmas parties. Select nights. Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com
FESTIVAL OF TREES, ENCHANTED HOLIDAYS
Nov. 10-19: The 37th year of this seasonal tradition transforms OMA into a charming, wooded wonderland full of Christmas cheer as galleries become glittering holiday showplaces with designer-inspired, decorated trees and wreaths, spectacular gingerbread houses, pop-up shops for holiday shopping and live entertainment. Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. 407-896-4231. omart.org
SEAWORLD CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Nov. 10-Dec. 31: Create traditions and unforgettable memories with family and friends in this winter wonderland sparkling with 3 million holiday lights. Indulge in seasonal shopping, animal shows, specialty treats and beverages and live entertainment. Included with park admission. SeaWorld Orlando, 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando. 407-545-5550. seaworld.com
HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
Nov. 17-Dec. 31: Grab your Muggle friends and get your cheer on as Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are transformed for the holidays. Indulge in the spirit of the season with special treats and activities, Universal’s Holiday Parade and much more. Included with park admission. Universal Orlando Resort, 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando. 407-363-8000. universalorlando.com
Ice Charlie Brown Family Plays In Snoopys Doghouse. Courtesy of the Gaylord Palms Resort Florida
CHRISTMAS AT GAYLORD PALMS
Nov. 17-Jan. 3: Gaylord Palms is a Christmas destination for locals and visitors alike, with acres of festive decorations, dozens of sensory experiences, fun activities, live shows and more. The ICE! show returns, featuring “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” built of truckloads of ice blocks that are carved by artisans from Harbin, China. Buy tickets online. 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000. christmasatgaylordpalms.com
DAZZLING NIGHTS AT LEU GARDENS
Nov. 17-Jan. 6: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the holidays at Dazzling Nights,
a three-quarter-mile journey of awe-inspiring light experiences brought to life by Creative City Project. This magical, interactive family experience features a 30-foot-tall tree made of thousands of shimmering gold sequins, a 70-foot-long light tunnel, a laser forest, snowy nights and holiday tunes, treats and beverages. Choose dates and entry times online. Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. dazzlingorlando.com
Asian Lantern Festival, Courtesy of the Central Florida ZOO.
ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL—INTO THE WILD
Nov. 17-Jan. 14: One of the zoo’s most popular events is back for a fourth year, with new lanterns for this stunning evening experience with larger-than-life illuminated lanterns celebrating the culture, art and beauty of Asia’s traditional lantern festivals. LED-lighted sculptures depicting animals, plants and traditional Chinese elements line the paths for this outdoor display. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 W. Seminole Blvd., Sanford. 407-323-4450. centralfloridazoo.org
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS BY CHIP DAVIS
Nov. 15 & 20: Christmas classics get the Mannheim treatment for a distinctive holiday show with multimedia effects. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd., Daytona Beach. 386-671-3462. peabodyauditorium.org. Monday at King Center for the Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-242-2219. kingcenter.com
MOONSHINE & MISTLETOE—AN APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS TALE
Nov. 24-Dec. 23: This musical throwback to a simpler time tells the tale of the Ballards, who welcome family and friends into their mountain home to celebrate Christmas Day in the midst of the Great Depression. They have no gifts to give so they share their love of Appalachian hymns and carols. Check website for times. Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. 407-877-4736. gardentheatre.org
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE HOLIDAYS
Nov. 24-Dec. 30: This yuletide extravaganza features traditions, foods and beverages from Epcot’s World Showcase nations and special kiosks. Merry experiences await, including the Holiday Cookie Stroll, Candlelight Processional, the story of Christmas told by a celebrity narrator and a 50-piece orchestra with full choir. EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com
HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND
Nov. 24-Dec. 31: It’s a Lego lover’s dream Christmas with decorations, a giant tree, Santa and a toy soldier all made out of LEGO blocks. Special activities include seasonal shows, twinkling lights, holiday treats and more, all included with admission. Check website for days. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven. 888-690-5346. legoland.com
HOLIDAY BLOOMS
Nov. 24-Jan. 7: Thousands of colorful poinsettias and other seasonal flowers and foliage burst with yuletide spirit along the paths of the garden’s 50 acres. Included with daytime admission. Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. 407-246-2620. leugardens.org
LIGHT UP MOUNT DORA
Nov. 25: The 26th annual lighting ceremony is the official start of the holidays in this historic town 30 miles north of Orlando. When the sun sets, the Mount Dora Boating Center lights up to dazzle all with the Christmas spirit. 148 Charles Ave., Mount Dora. 352-383-2165. mtdoraboats.com
Experience a reimagined and lively Home for the Holidays under the baton of Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s Assistant Conductor Mauricio Céspedes-Rivero. Photo by Snap Out Loud Photography, LLC
ORLANDO PHIL—HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Nov. 25: Experience the joyful sounds of the season with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra joined by holiday singers, with Mauricio Céspedes-Rivero conducting. 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 407-358-6603. drphillipscenter.org
IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS
Nov. 25-Dec. 17: This musical showcases many of Berlin’s legendary songs and is based on the 1954 film “White Christmas.” Dreaming of a white Christmas is the theme but this show also is a heartwarming evening of nostalgia and American pride. Saturday 2:30 p.m.; Thursday, Friday, Sunday 12:30 p.m. Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. 386-736-1500. athensdeland.com
HOLIDAYS AT THE MORSE MUSEUM
Nov. 25-Dec. 30: Friday night admission is free throughout the holiday season, as are holiday events and live music programs. The Thanksgiving Weekend Open House kicks off the festivities. 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-645-5311. morsemuseum.org
CELEBRATION NOW SNOWING
Nov. 25-Dec. 31: Disney’s Celebration hosts free holiday festivities nightly in its downtown area. Snow falls as carolers sing holiday favorites. Paid activities include photos with Santa, a train ride and ice skating. Celebration Town Center, 610 Sycamore St., Celebration. 407-566-4007. celebrationtowncenter.com
CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK
Nov. 30: The Morse Museum presents its 45th annual celebration of Christmas with the unveiling of 100-year-old Tiffany windows and free outdoor concert by the Bach Festival Society Choir and Brass Ensemble. 6:15 p.m. Central Park, 270 S. Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-645-5311. morsemuseum.org
Special Events
PLEIN AIR PAINT OUT 2023
Through Nov. 12: Come watch as artists paint landscapes depicting the beauty that is Mount Dora and help support art education in local schools and underserved communities. All artwork will be for sale in the gallery through Nov. 12. Mount Dora Center for the Arts, 138 E. Fifth Ave., Mount Dora. 352-383-0880. mountdoraart.com
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL
Through Nov. 18: Explore the world of culinary treasures on a leisurely tour of marketplaces featuring authentic global foods and beverages while enjoying the sights and sounds at entertainment spots throughout the World Showcase. Dance and dine at the Eat to the Beat concert series. Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista. disneyworld.disney.go.com
ORLANDO SHAKES PLAYFEST 2023
Nov. 3-4: Playfest introduces new works by emerging writers through live readings. Audience members are welcome to share their reactions directly with the playwright during a post-show talkback. Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. 407-447-1700. orlandoshakes.org
STAR WARS & MORE—THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS
Nov. 5: Sit back for an afternoon of iconic film scores performed in their entirety by the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, including the “Star Wars” trilogy, “Jurassic Park” and “Jaws.” 3 p.m. The Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd., Daytona Beach. 386-671-3462. peabodyauditorium.org
NEIL GAIMAN IN CONVERSATION WITH ART SPIEGELMAN
Nov. 6: Bestselling author Gaiman and Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, illustrator and author Spiegelman talk about writing, working across mediums, friendship and more. 8 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org
MARC RIBOT—CHARLIE CHAPLIN’S ‘THE KID’
Nov. 9: Americana guitarist Ribot’s delicate and haunting solo guitar score contemporizes this classic Chaplin film as it plays silently onscreen. 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org
ANNUAL CRAFT BEER & BLUES FESTIVAL
Nov. 10: Always a great time with some great blues, including headliner Dana Fuchs and openers Jonathon “Boogie” Long and Ron Betts. Craft brews will be flowing amid an art show, vendors and food trucks. 5 p.m. Lake Concord Park, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry. 407-262-7700, ext. 1575. casselberry.org
WILLIAM SHATNER
Nov. 10: Capt. James T. Kirk is beaming himself in for a screening of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.” Hollywood legend Shatner will answer audience questions after a talk about his life as an actor, producer, director, writer and even space traveler. 7 p.m. King Center for the Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-242-2219. kingcenter.com
24th ANNUAL CITY OF ORLANDO VETERANS DAY PARADE
Nov. 11: Orlando Mayer Buddy Dyer joins with the Veterans Advisory Council in honoring the men and women of the armed forces. This year’s parade will open with a tribute to all who fought for our country and defended our freedom. Parade starts at Orange Avenue and Robinson Street. Head over to Lake Eola Park afterward for a celebration with food, music and family fun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. orlando.gov
ENCANTO—THE SING-ALONG FILM CONCERT
Nov. 12: Dress as your favorite Madrigal family character and sing along to all the music of the Academy Award-winning animated Walt Disney film. 2 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org
ANCIENT ALIENS LIVE
Nov. 17: History Channel favorites discuss thought-provoking extraterrestrial theories that explore whether aliens have been visiting Earth for millions of years. 7:30 p.m. The Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd., Daytona Beach. 386-671-3462. peabodyauditorium.org
FLORIDA BLUE BATTLE OF THE BANDS
Nov. 17: Cheer for crowd-pleasing dance teams, high-stepping drum majors, precision drumlines and roaring brass sections from the nation’s top high school marching bands. 7 p.m. Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., Orlando. 407-440-7900. amwaycenter.com
47th ANNUAL LONGWOOD ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
Nov. 18-19: This annual festival is a great opportunity to shop for holiday gifts from the more than 200 artists and handcrafters offering unique items, fine jewelry and seasonal décor. Shops and restaurants offer festival food, beer, wine and cocktails for patrons to enjoy as they stroll the streets of the Historic District. Saturday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 175 W. Warren Ave., Longwood. 352-217-8390. longwoodfestival.com
YOU’LL NEVER GUESS WHAT HAPPENED AT THE MUSEUM
Nov. 19: The Narrators! troupe at Central Florida Community Arts have teamed up with the Art & History Museums of Maitland to create a theatrical performance featuring monologues and vignettes inspired by the artwork of Andre Smith. 3 & 6 p.m. Art & History Museums of Maitland, 231 W. Packwood Ave. cfcarts.com
HENRY ROLLINS
Nov. 19: Punk rock icon and overall renaissance man Rollins is never in one place for long and he has a lot to say about where he’s been and where he’s going in this live talk. 8 p.m. King Center for the Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne. 321-242-2219. kingcenter.com
SPIDER-MAN—INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE LIVE IN CONCERT
Nov. 20 & 21: The Academy Award-winning animated film is paired with a score that blends symphonic orchestral music with hip-hop and features live musicians and a DJ. 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org
FUSIONFEST
Nov. 25-26: A free, two-day celebration of all that makes a diverse Central Florida a wonderful place to visit and live. Explore the world through dance, music, fashion, marketplaces, film, cooking, visual arts and more. Saturday 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., Sunday noon-6 p.m. Seneff Arts Plaza at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 407-836-5540. fusionfest.org
COCO IN CONCERT ON TOUR
Nov. 26: A 20-member Latin ensemble performs the musical score live as the film tells the tale of Miguel’s quest to become a musician despite his family’s generations-old ban on music. 4:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org
DANTE GEBEL
Nov. 30: Many in the Hispanic world look to Gebel, a speaker, influencer, actor and TV host, for his insightful talks. Here he shares his thoughts on life, death, nostalgia and more. 8 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. 844-513-2014. drphillipscenter.org
