Orlando Family Events Calendar 2026-2027 (Dates + How to Plan Ahead)
Updated June 2026 · 7 min read
The secret to doing Orlando well is planning around the big events. Some are worth building a whole trip around; others sell out or spike prices, so you want to book early. Here's my running calendar of the family-friendly ones, with dates and what to grab ahead of time so you're not scrambling.
Fall 2026 (Aug-Nov)
- Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Magic Kingdom), select nights Aug 7 - Oct 31, 2026. Family-friendly trick-or-treating, parade, and fireworks. See my family Halloween guide.
- SeaWorld Spooktacular, select dates Aug 29 - Nov 1, 2026. The gentlest, daytime option for little ones.
- EPCOT Food & Wine Festival, runs into the fall (great for grazing; strollers welcome).
- runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, Oct 22 - 25, 2026, fun even as a spectator.
Holidays 2026 (Nov-Dec)
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (Magic Kingdom), select nights Nov 8 - Dec 22, 2026, about $189-229. Tickets on sale July 9 (resort guests) and July 16 (everyone). Full details in my Christmas at Disney World guide.
- EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, Nov 27 - Dec 30, 2026, included with admission (Candlelight Processional, Cookie Stroll, Holiday Kitchens).
- Holiday decorations everywhere, free with admission, plus Disney Springs and resort lobbies.
Winter 2027 (Jan-Feb)
- runDisney Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, Jan 6 - 10, 2027.
- EPCOT Festival of the Arts, typically January into February (2027 dates expected to be announced in fall 2026, usually included with admission).
- runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Feb 25 - Mar 1, 2027.
Spring 2027 (Mar-May)
- EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival, typically March into early June (2027 dates to be confirmed; projected to start early March). Gorgeous topiaries and outdoor kitchens.
- runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend, Apr 15 - 18, 2027.
What to buy to plan ahead
No matter the event, the same short list saves your day: broken-in comfy shoes, a handheld or stroller fan, a portable charger, a refillable water bottle, and a light layer for cool evenings. Here's my full theme park packing list, and save on entry with my discount Disney tickets guide.
Grab the plan-ahead gear
The fan, charger, comfy shoes, and park-day essentials I bring to every event are in my Amazon storefront.
See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.Frequently asked questions
What's the best time to visit Orlando for events?
The holidays (November to December) are the most magical, with Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and EPCOT's Festival of the Holidays. Fall brings Halloween events, and EPCOT runs a festival almost year-round.
When do Disney party tickets go on sale?
Separate-ticket parties like Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party typically go on sale months ahead (July for the 2026 holiday season), and popular dates sell out, so buy early.
Are EPCOT festivals included with admission?
Yes, the EPCOT festivals (Arts, Flower & Garden, Food & Wine, Holidays) are included with regular EPCOT admission. Food, drinks, and special dining packages cost extra.
Janet
Orlando mom of two and the creator behind Planet Janet TV. I keep a running list of the events worth planning around. Come say hi on Instagram.
Start with the holidays
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party dates, EPCOT's holiday festival, and the free magic most people miss.
Read the Christmas at Disney guide →Sources: Disney Parks Blog, runDisney, Disney EPCOT festivals. Some 2027 dates are expected but unconfirmed; verify on official sites before booking.