Summer is here, and whether you want to enjoy the great outdoors, make some art as a family, celebrate Christmas in July at a quirky market, or find the perfect plans for the Fourth of July, our list has you covered.
Here are some of the best free and cheap things to do around Orlando this July.
Fourth of July
Orlando is a magical place to celebrate Independence Day with lots of options for everyone. Enjoy an iconic tradition of fireworks and festival fun this July 4th.
See the whole Guide to the 4th of July in Orlando here.
Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge Grand Reopening
Saturday, July 12th
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
$10 per person general admission, kids 3 and under are free
- Food trucks, local vendors, and plenty of critter friends for you to meet and learn about.
Markets and Festivals
Christmas in July
July 12, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Downtown Sanford
Free entry
- Start your day at the Sanford Information Center at 230 E 1st St to pick up your shopping passport for a chance to win the raffle. Collect a stamp from all participating merchants, then drop off your fully stamped passport at the Sanford Information Center by 6 pm for the raffle drawing.
- Get even more for your money with Sanford Seeds: a currency that can be purchased at the Sanford Information Center for 50% of the face value and redeemed for full value at participating downtown Sanford businesses. Supplies are limited.
- See more information on their event page.
Orlando Grinchmas in July
July 18, 2025
4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Ivanhoe Brewing
Free entry
- Meet the Grinch, shop from artists, and enjoy food and drinks from local vendors.
- See more on their event page.
Family Events
Summer Family Art Workshops
July 2, 9, 23
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Art & History Museums of Maitland
Free
- Hands-on arts and crafts workshops where you can drop in and make a masterpiece at your own pace.
- Reserve your spot at the event link for each week.
Little Creatives and Me
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Art & History Museums of Maitland
Free
- Songs, circle, time, art activities, and a snack for babies and toddlers.
- Register at the event link for each week.
Orange County Back-to-School Fair
Saturday, July 19, 2025
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
John Bridges Community Center, Apopka
Free, but pre-registration is encouraged
- The Paving the Way Foundation will be on hand to offer resources that help families protect their children from online exploitation, social media risks, and more.
- FREE backpacks & school supplies (while they last)
- FREE immunizations (bring parent ID, child’s birth certificate or ID, vaccine record—children must be present)
- FREE food & drinks, Kids Fun Zone
- Mentoring, tutoring, after-school programs, safety resources & more
- Proof of Orange County residency required
- Children must be present to receive services
Free & Low‑Cost Outdoor Fun
Explore Orlando’s beautiful outdoor spaces with little to no cost:
- Stroll or bike the Orlando Urban Trail
- Visit Tibet-Butler or Oakland Nature Preserves for free wildlife spotting
- Swim or paddle one of Central Florida’s incredible springs and rivers
Cady Way Pool Dive-In Movie: Free Willy
Saturday, July 19, 2025
8:30 p.m.
Cady Way Pool, Winter Park
Free
- Take a nighttime swim at the Cady Way Pool while watching Free Willy.
- Free popcorn and drinks while supplies last.
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