Free & cheap things to do in Orlando this weekend

Things are heating up in Orlando!

With July 4th just around the corner, the calendar is already filling up with fun activities and events celebrating Independence Day.

It’s time to make the most of this beautiful season, and you can start by attending any of these FREE and cheap things to do in Orlando this weekend.

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Free & cheap things to do in Orlando this weekend

Note: Sometimes, things change after we post an event. It’s always a good idea to check directly with venues and event organizers to confirm before you go.

Here are some entertaining free and cheap activities to check out this weekend.

Ice Cream for Breakfast with First Watch UCF and Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
Sunday, June 29 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.

It’s summertime and rules don’t always apply – especially rules like “no ice cream for breakfast!” This Sunday, head to First Watch UCF for a Sundae Fundae with surprise treats and summer smiles. Kelly’s pink ice cream truck will be onsite selling scoops with toppings inspired by the First Watch menu. The first 100 guests to arrive will receive a FREE scoop of Kelly’s ice cream. Can’t make it to the party? Select First Watch locations will be serving a FREE scoop of Kelly’s signature Cake Batter N’ Sprinkles ice cream with any kids menu purchase through July 4.

Rock, Freedom, & Fireworks
Saturday, June 28 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Kick off your patriotic celebration a week early at Reiter Park this weekend. Hosted by the City of Longwood, this Independence Day party features live music, over a dozen food trucks, a full bar, vendors, and a fireworks show that kicks off at 9 p.m. This FREE event is a great way to get your week of celebration started.

Lake Nona’s Great American Block Party
Saturday, June 28 from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.

There’s nothing more American than a good ol’ fashioned block party. Lake Nona takes it to the next level with town-wide patriotic FREE celebration – and you’re invited! This family-friendly event will include food, games, live music, and a dazzling laser light show. There will also be a wing-eating competition, a pie bake-off, and a corn hole competition. Can’t make it to the main event? Check out nearby Boxi Park for a full weekend of Block Party activities you can enjoy.

Science on Screen Jr. Presents “The Land Before Time”
Sunday, June 29 at 12 p.m.

Looking for a family-friendly air conditioned activity to add to your weekend itinerary? Enzian Theatre presents Science on Screen Jr., where educator and paleontologist Jimmy Waldron and his Apatosaurus friend, Ajax, will be hosting a showing of “The Land Before Time.” Tickets are FREE for kids 12 and under and $11 for anyone 13 and older.

The Orlando Oddities and Curiosities Market
Saturday, June 28 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Another blessedly air conditioned option for your weekend is The Orlando Oddities and Curiosities Market at Osceola Heritage Park. This event, while not for the squeamish or un-curious, features over 56,000 square feet of “the best and weirdest the Oddities Community has to offer.” Enjoy workshops like a taxidermy rabbit class and an insect pinning class, or take in chilling entertainment like the Dead City Circus Sideshow and Shock Illusionist Dan Sperry. Adults 14 and older can buy tickets for $16 per person, and kids 13 and under are FREE!

Romantic things to do Orlando: rent swan boats at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando

Rent your own Swan Boat at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando.

Rent a Swan Boat
Lake Eola
10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday

The Central Florida weather is crisp and beautiful at last. Grab a blanket and your favorite person (or people!) and rent a swan boat to experience Lake Eola in an entirely new way. Better yet, purchase your tickets via Groupon here to save even more on this Orlando rite of passage. Get a 30 minute swan boat rental for only $9 through Groupon.

Lake Mary Farmers’ Market.

Central Florida Farmers Markets
Various Dates and Times

Now is a great time to check out one of Central Florida’s fabulous farmers markets. Support local businesses and vendors, enjoy the beautiful fresh air, and pick up some healthy treats to start your new year on the right foot (or splurge on something indulgent to set the tone for a luxurious 2025!)

Looking for more free and cheap things to do in and around Orlando this weekend?

Check out our list of the Best free and cheap things to do in Orlando and Central Florida for ongoing events and ideas of budget-friendly ways to pass the time.