
Local Traditions & Customs in Orlando, Florida, United States
1. Cowboy Way at Gaylord Palms
A weekly event showcasing cowboy culture with live music, line dancing, and Western-themed activities.
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy an authentic taste of the Old West in modern Orlando
- Live Entertainment: Witness live music performances and demonstrations
- Interactive Activities: Participate in line dancing and other Western activities
2. Zora! Festival
An annual celebration of African-American arts and culture, honoring the life and work of Zora Neale Hurston.
- Cultural Appreciation: Pay tribute to a celebrated African-American author and learn about her legacy
- Artistic Showcase: Enjoy music, dance, visual arts, literature, and culinary delights
- Community Gathering: Connect with the local African-American community and celebrate their heritage
3. UCF Chinese New Year Festival
Annual event showcasing Asian culture through performances, food, and activities.
- Cultural Exploration: Gain insight into Chinese culture beyond Orlando's Chinatown
- Authentic Performances: Experience traditional Asian music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations
- Multicultural Experience: Celebrate unity in diversity with Orlando's multicultural community
4. Epcot's International Festival of the Holidays
A seasonal event celebrating diverse holiday traditions from around the world.
- Holiday Magic: Enjoy festive music, decorations, and performances
- Cultural Exchange: Learn about holiday traditions from different countries
- Festive Foods: Sample delicious holiday-inspired dishes from around the world
5. Mardi Gras at Universal Studios
A seasonal event featuring parades, live music, and New Orleans-style cuisine.
- Carnival Fun: Experience the lively atmosphere of Mardi Gras celebrations
- Parade Spectacle: Witness colorful parades filled with dancers, floats, and beads
- New Orleans Flavor: Savor traditional Cajun and Creole dishes during the event
6. Orlando Fringe Festival
An annual theater festival featuring unconventional, avant-garde performances.
- Creative Expression: Witness groundbreaking and thought-provoking performances
- Artistic Diversity: Discover a wide range of artistic styles and perspectives
- Community Spirit: Support independent artists and engage with the local creative community
7. Orlando Shakespeare Theater
A professional theater company dedicated to producing works by Shakespeare and other classical playwrights.
- Classical Theatre: Experience timeless works of literature brought to life on stage
- Local Talent: Support local actors, directors, and technicians in their craft
- Educational Opportunities: Participate in workshops, lectures, and educational programs
8. Orlando Repertory Theatre
A professional theater company producing plays for young audiences.
- Educational Entertainment: Enjoy engaging and educational theater experiences for children
- Local Talent: Support local actors, directors, and technicians in their craft
- Interactive Opportunities: Participate in post-show discussions, workshops, and activities
9. Festival of Nations at Lake Eola
An annual event celebrating diverse cultures through food, music, dance, and art.
- Cultural Exchange: Learn about various cultures from around the world
- Authentic Cuisine: Taste delicious traditional dishes from different countries
- Performative Arts: Enjoy music, dance, and other artistic performances
10. Orlando Museum of Art
A leading art museum in Central Florida showcasing local, national, and international artists.
- Artistic Diversity: Discover a wide range of artistic styles and perspectives
- Local Community Engagement: Support the local art community and attend events
- Educational Opportunities: Participate in workshops, lectures, and educational programs
11. Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival
An annual theater festival showcasing independent, avant-garde performances.
- Creative Expression: Witness groundbreaking and thought-provoking performances
- Artistic Diversity: Discover a wide range of artistic styles and perspectives
- Community Spirit: Support independent artists and engage with the local creative community
12. Orlando Urban Trail
A 14-mile walking and biking trail showcasing public art installations representing Orlando's history and culture.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about Orlando's history, culture, and landmarks through public art
- Physical Activity: Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride while exploring the city
- Local Engagement: Support local artists and engage with the local community
13. Cocoa Beach Pirate & Mermaid Festivals
Seasonal events celebrating pirate culture, featuring costumes, music, and activities.
- Pirate Adventure: Experience the thrill of pirate-themed fun in Cocoa Beach
- Costume Opportunities: Dress up as a pirate or mermaid and join the festivities
- Community Spirit: Connect with fellow pirate and mermaid enthusiasts
14. Sak Yant Blessing Ceremony at Wat Thai Orlando
A traditional Buddhist ceremony where participants receive sacred tattoos for protection and blessings.
- Spiritual Experience: Participate in a deeply spiritual and cultural experience
- Authentic Tradition: Experience an authentic Thai cultural tradition
- Tattoo Artistry: Admire the intricate designs and techniques used in Sak Yant tattoos
15. Diwali at University of Central Florida
An annual event celebrating the Hindu festival of lights through music, dance, food, and cultural activities.
- Cultural Education: Learn about the Hindu festival of Diwali and its significance
- Community Spirit: Connect with the local Indian community and enjoy their traditions
- Festive Fun: Enjoy vibrant music, dance, and delicious Indian cuisine