The new year is the perfect time to explore all the free and budget-friendly activities Central Florida and Orlando have to offer. Whether you’re a local or visiting on vacation, here’s a list of top picks of things to do in January divided by category.
Is there a free or cheap event we should know about in and around Orlando? Add it to the community calendar here.
Recreation, Nature, and Sports
Explore Lake Eola Park
Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando is a hub of free activities. Take a walk around the lake, feed the swans, or simply relax with a picnic. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, check out the Orlando Farmers Market for affordable local goods and treats.
Kelly Park’s Annual Cardboard Canoe Regatta
January 18 at 1:00 p.m.
Kelly Park Rock Springs
Teams of five build and race a cardboard and duct tape canoe (registration closes Friday, January 10). Teams race their canoes in the clear, chilly 68-degree waters of Rock Springs beginning. Prizes awarded to Race Winner, Crowd Favorite and the hilarious Most Spectacular Sinking. Read more about it here and see the Facebook event here.
Manatees at Blue Springs State Park.
See Manatees at Blue Spring State Park
Manatee season is in full swing at Blue Spring State Park, where you can see these gentle giants up close. Entrance fees are just $6 per vehicle.
Wekiva Island
Go Hiking at Wekiwa Springs State Park
For just $6 per car, you can explore miles of hiking trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature. Bring your own snacks to make it an affordable family outing. Read about all the Central Florida springs here.
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Attractions and Museums
Leu Gardens’ Free First Monday
Harry P. Leu Gardens waives admission on the first Monday of every month, giving you access to its lovely 50-acre botanical gardens. Mark your calendar for January 6th.
Check Out Free Art at the CityArts Gallery
CityArts, located in downtown Orlando, offers free admission to its galleries featuring local and regional artists. Pair your visit with the Downtown Arts District’s 3rd Thursday Art Walk for a vibrant cultural evening.
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Entertainment
Free live music every Saturday & Sunday at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont, Florida.
Weekends at the Winery
Saturdays and Sundays
Lakeridge Winery
Enjoy Lakeridge Winery’s expansive vineyard green, delicious food for sale, free live entertainment, and your favorite Lakeridge wines at their outdoor bar during Weekends at the Winery. Bring a blanket or chairs. No outside food or drink is allowed inside.
See Fringe FESTN4
January 8 through January 12, 2025
Fringe ArtSpace in Downtown Orlando
Fringe FESTN4 is the perfect introduction for first-time Fringe-goers. Unlike the bigger May Festival, FESTN4 is curated, featuring works from past festivals, new works from well-received Fringe artists, and brand new creatives scouted from the international and national Fringe circuit.
Lake Mary Farmers’ Market.
Festivals and Markets
Central Florida Farmers’ Markets
Get a taste of local flavors at Central Florida’s free farmers’ markets. Please note that farmers’ markets are subject to cancellation or rescheduling. Here are some of the most popular markets:
- On Sundays visit The Orlando Farmers Market is held at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando.
- On Saturdays you can visit the Winter Garden Farmers Market, the Winter Park Farmers Market, and the Lake Nona Farmers Market.
A Night of the Mystic Arts Festival
January 10, 2025
5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Lake Concord Park
The Society for Historic Casselberry will host the 3rd Annual A Night of the Mystical Arts Festival at Lake Concord Park, alongside the Friday Food Truck event. Attendees can enjoy live music by the Bloody Jug Band, mini performances by Phantasmagoria Orlando, and shop at the Casselberry Night Market with over 65 vendors. This FREE outdoor event is open to the public, offering fun for all, with free parking available.
Kids’ Stuff
FREE family Fun Day at the Mennello Museum of Art.
Free Family Funday at the Mennello Museum
On the 2nd Sunday of each month the Mennello Museum for free admission all day, hourly tours, and a fine art project. Each Free Family Funday has a different art project based on the artists of the current exhibition, their subject matter, or their methods.
With so many free and affordable options, January is a fantastic month to explore Central Florida. Get out there and start the year off with fun memories.
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