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Free & Cheap Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend: January 17 - 19, 2025

Writer's picture: Alastair MacAlastair Mac

Updated: Jan 20

There is LOTS to do in Orlando that won't break the bank, and this weekend there is a great choice of either free or cheap things to do throughout Central Florida.

Free & Cheap Things To Do in Orlando This Weekend

Free & Cheap Things To Do This Weekend In Orlando!

Whether your a local or a visitor, Orlando offers an almost endless choice of things to do, and best of all there is tons of amazing events and things to do that are either free or cheap!


From free events for the little ones, to cheap nights out for the big kids!, we've go you covered with the best free and cheap events and things to do, including community events, car shows, concerts, farmers markets, free museum days, outdoor movie nights, festivals, and more.


Keep up with the latest news on events, and things to do in Central Florida by signing up for the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.



Before attending events, please contact the event organizer to confirm that the event is taking place as changes, and cancellations can occur.


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FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2025


Event poster with MLK image, text: "38th Annual Celebration, Sanford, Florida, Men of the Movement: Charting a Path Forward." Background: crowd outdoors.

January 17 - 20

The City of Sanford Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Steering Committee, Inc. proudly presents the 38th Annual Celebration and Memorial Observance.This year’s theme is “Men of the Movement: Charting A Path Forward.”


We invite you to join us in celebrating the men who have been instrumental in driving forward the movements in Sanford. During the Dr. King holiday weekend, over four days, we will be hosting five events to keep the dream of Dr. King alive, including the annual MLK Parade. We would be grateful for your support in making these events a success and continuing to keep his dream alive.


MLK Luncheon 2025 poster. Men in suits posed beneath event text. Date: January 17, 2025, 11AM-1PM. Website and sponsor logos included.

January 17

This luncheon, presented by the Delta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. & the I.S. Hankins/F.A. Johnson  Education Foundation (HJEF), begins with keynote speaker Marc Morial, who served as the highly successful and popular Mayor of New Orleans. At the event, students, community leaders and organizations will be recognized for their contributions with the prestigious Drum Major Award in areas of Scholastic Achievement, Civic Affairs, Social Justice, Community Service and Business.  



January 17

Longwood Movie in the Park presents Wonka at Reiter Park Bring your chairs and snacks (maybe even a blanket!) and settle in for a movie in the park!



January 17

The Edwards brothers use state-of-the-art 3-D make-up artistry and amazing costumes to look like the music superstars of today and yesterday. More than that, you will find it hard to believe you are not actually hearing a live performance by such greats as Elton John, Tom Jones, Barbara Streisand, Celine Dion, Sonny & Cher, and many more. Join us for this popular Las Vegas style show. This event regularly sells out, don’t wait to reserve your tickets.



January 17

Join OMA for a workshop that features a hands-on art activity in the studio followed by a visit to the gallery. Explore materials and techniques in a stimulating and inviting environment that fosters engagement and creativity for young children and their favorite grownup! Ideal for children ages 2-10.


Food Truck Fridays Orlando

Every Friday

Food Truck Fridays is a weekly food truck gathering from Parking Lot Party. Every Friday at Ivanhoe Park Brewing,10 different food trucks will be available to kick your weekend off right.


Sanford Ghost Tour  Every Friday and Saturday

Every Friday and Saturday

Discover Sanford’s unknown and sometimes dark history, including access to a haunted area!

This 90-minute tour led by a local guide allows you to experience historical stories of Sanford’s past residents and those still lurking around are plentiful.


SAK Comedy Lab Orlando

Every Friday and Saturday

This is SAK’s signature improv show! Two teams of professional improvisers compete for your laughs with audience judges selected at the start of the show.


Every Friday and Saturday

In this knockdown, drag-out comedy battle, a cast of our professional performers pair up in teams of two and use audience suggestions to create scenes, songs and characters on the spot at King of the Hill!


Art After Dark at Lake Nona

Every Friday

Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center from 6 pm. Enjoy a stroll as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while and enjoy the art displayed on the art installation, The Beacon.


Every Friday

TPD Night Market is a weekly Friday night market featuring 20 plus vendors at 431 E Central Blvd, Thornton Park, Orlando.


Every Friday

Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza, at Downtown Winter Garden in the beautiful Centennial Plaza Gazebo.


Friday Muscle Car Show & Cruise Old Town Kissimmee

Every Friday

Join the heart pounding excitement of high-performance engines and true horse power for our Muscle Car Show every Friday night at Old Town in Kissimmee. The Friday Muscle Car Show begins at 3 pm featuring show-quality muscle and factory-performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars cruise at 8:30 pm.


Dockside Dueling Pianos

Every Friday

Enjoy nonstop live piano music every Friday night at The Wharf at Sunset Walk with late-night food and drink menu.



Every Friday

Round up your crew every Friday for Ladies Night at PBR Cowboy Bar, at Live! at the Pointe Orlando. Ladies drink free from 8 - 10 pm, and you can kick off the night with line dancing from 7 - 9 pm. Enjoy boot-stompin' DJ sets and a lively country vibe that's perfect for a night out with your girlies. Look for giveaways and other drink specials all night!


Every Friday

Unwind under the stars on Shark Bar’s patio at Live! at the Pointe Orlando, where live music meets laid-back beach vibes. The beach-themed bar is the ideal spot to sip drinks and kick off the weekend to the sounds of acoustic melodies. Take the party up a notch with a DJ Set with drink specials from 10 pm until close.


Every Friday

Start your weekend right with Friday Night Live at Sports & Social at Live! at the Pointe Orlando. After the game, keep the energy going with live music entertainment from 10 pm - 1 am. Whether you're dancing the night away or just soaking in the vibes, it's the perfect way to kick off the weekend.




SATURDAY, JANUARY 18, 2025


Event poster with MLK image, text: "38th Annual Celebration, Sanford, Florida, Men of the Movement: Charting a Path Forward." Background: crowd outdoors.

January 17 - 20

The City of Sanford Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Steering Committee, Inc. proudly presents the 38th Annual Celebration and Memorial Observance.This year’s theme is “Men of the Movement: Charting A Path Forward.”


We invite you to join us in celebrating the men who have been instrumental in driving forward the movements in Sanford. During the Dr. King holiday weekend, over four days, we will be hosting five events to keep the dream of Dr. King alive, including the annual MLK Parade. We would be grateful for your support in making these events a success and continuing to keep his dream alive.



January 18 - 19

The history and culture of these events are centuries old and the Scottish-American Society of Central Florida are honored to represent that heritage at the Central Florida Scottish Highland Games. Experience traditional highland athletics, dance, art, music, culture and food!

 

MLK Holiday Parade poster with a speech photo, patriotic background. Text: "Mission Possible," "Jan 18th, 2025," "Downtown Orlando," "10 AM."

January 18

Join us for the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade in Downtown Orlando! The parade will kick off at the Downtown Orlando Courthouse and make its way to the beautiful Lake Eola Park. Come celebrate the legacy of Dr. King with vibrant floats, marching bands, and community groups. It's a day filled with unity, inspiration, and fun for all ages.



January 18

Join us as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Eatonville’s 48th Annual MLK Parade Celebration on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. This year’s theme, “Illuminating Tomorrow Together,” celebrates unity, progress, and hope for the future. Experience the vibrant parade down Kennedy Boulevard, followed by our Festival in the Field filled with live music, delicious food, local artisans, and family-friendly activities.


January 18

Live music, special performances, family games, giveaways, food trucks, and more.


January 18

Join us for the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade in Downtown Orlando! The parade will kick off at the Downtown Orlando Courthouse and make its way to the beautiful Lake Eola Park. Come celebrate the legacy of Dr. King with vibrant floats, marching bands, and community groups. It's a day filled with unity, inspiration, and fun for all ages.


January 18

Join us as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Eatonville’s 48th Annual MLK Parade Celebration on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. This year’s theme, “Illuminating Tomorrow Together,” celebrates unity, progress, and hope for the future. Experience the vibrant parade down Kennedy Boulevard, followed by our Festival in the Field filled with live music, delicious food, local artisans, and family-friendly activities



January 18

The City of Tavares Public Works invites you to 8th Annual Arbor Day!

Come for the tree giveaway! Stay for the day as it will be filled with interactive educational exhibits such as the “Raptor Presentation” presented by Avian Reconditioning of Apopka. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the majestic birds of prey up close! The University of Florida/IFAS Extension Lake County will be presenting “Native Landscaping” where you can learn how to start your own native garden. 


January 18

Join us for an unforgettable Soulfest MLK Celebration immediately following the annual MLK Parade in Leesburg! Let’s keep the energy going with a day filled with live music from O'Gilvie Trio and Shay Butter Band, delicious food from local vendors, and so much more. This event is a perfect way to continue celebrating unity, diversity, and the lasting impact of Dr. Martin Luther King


January 18 - 19

Get ready for the 4th annual Celebrate Lunar festival, now a two-day event for the very first time! Join over 7,000 friends and neighbors on January 18 and 19, 2025, at Luminary Green Park in Downtown Orlando.



January 18

Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy a Florida Saturday in the park at Pups & Pints. 2025’s event, which is sponsored by Experience Kissimmee and Island Village by Mattamy Homes will be held on Saturday, January 18 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Lakeside Park, 631 Sycamore Street. The event is a great place to be if you are a pet owner, and even if you don’t have a furry family member, it is still a great opportunity to get out and enjoy Celebration. Peruse from a wide selection of pet-centric vendors, have a bite to eat, enjoy live entertainment featuring Sugar Vibe, and be sure to stop by the ‘watering bowl,’ for an adult beverage. Enjoy live music, and be entertained with dog shows throughout the afternoon. Don’t forget the pet costume contest, home to some of the most unique and creative get-ups around.



January 18

Experience the magic of Montverde Academy, a beacon of excellence in performing arts education in Central Florida. Renowned for its Music and Theatre Conservatories, Montverde stands among the nation's premier high school arts institutions, consistently garnering acclaim for their outstanding achievements in music, dance, and theatre.


January 18

Open to all skill levels. Our journey begins with an exploration of various book structures and formats. We'll unravel the possibilities and discuss how each structure can enhance your storytelling. Through hands-on demonstrations and guided experimentation, you'll learn to select the perfect format to bring your vision to life. This workshop is an invitation to explore the intersection of art and literature, where imagination knows no bounds.


Sanford Ghost Tour

Every Friday and Saturday

Discover Sanford’s unknown and sometimes dark history, including access to a haunted area!

This 90-minute tour led by a local guide allows you to experience historical stories of Sanford’s past residents and those still lurking around are plentiful.


Every Saturday

Enjoy the haunted tales of ghostly experiences in Historic Downtown Sanford while sipping some delicious craft beer from three popular craft beer establishments. This 90-minute tasting tour starting at 8:30 pm is led by BJCP Certified Beer Judge, Gary Holmes.  Learn historical stories gathered from the people who live in Sanford, while getting intimate with local brewers and Sanford craft beer.


SAK Comedy Lab Orlando

Every Friday and Saturday

This is SAK’s signature improv show! Two teams of professional improvisers compete for your laughs with audience judges selected at the start of the show.


Every Friday and Saturday

In this knockdown, drag-out comedy battle, a cast of our professional performers pair up in teams of two and use audience suggestions to create scenes, songs and characters on the spot at King of the Hill!


Enjoy yoga in the Garden in the midst of the beautiful Mead Botanical Garden

Every Saturday and Sunday

Enjoy yoga in the Garden in the midst of the beautiful Mead Botanical Garden. Take part in the opportunity to truly connect with yourself and nature. Takes place every Saturday, 9 - 10 am and Sundays 4 - 5 pm. $15 (Proceeds will benefit Mead Botanical Garden) . Bring a yoga mat and water.


Every Saturday

Mead Botanical Gardens offers a unique experience to practice Tai Chi in the Garden with certified Tai Chi Health Master Trainer, Tony Garcia. Takes place every Saturday, 10:30 - 11.30 am. Please bring water.


Every Saturday

Namaste, a new you awaits. Find your perfect balance in the serene outdoor yoga classes at  Lake Nona Wave Hotel. Set amidst the picturesque Sculpture Garden, experienced nstructors will guide you through a harmonious blend of strength and flexibility.


Every Saturday

Catch the excitement with dynamic drink specials and cool cocktails at Shark Bar’s at Live! at the Pointe Orlando! Ladies enjoy a complimentary all-inclusive drink package, while guys can grab theirs for just $20. Both are available from 8 pm to 10 pm. Get ready to Hang 10 at 10 pm every Saturday and keep the good vibes rolling all night long!


Disney Springs Kids Club

Every Saturday

Dance, play and be entertained at engaging shows for kids of all ages at the Disney Springs Kids Club, taking place every Saturday. Free Entertainment and Free Parking.


Every Saturday

It's every yoga and beer lover's favorite time of the week! Come join RockPit Brewing & Distilling this Saturday morning for some rejuvenating yoga and a pint of craft beer deliciousness at the end. Don't forget to bring your yoga mat. $10 at the door or pre-purchase.


Every Saturday

Join Bicikleta Bike Shop on a Lake Monroe Loop. This 28-mile bike ride will take you on an adventure around Lake Monroe. Saturday mornings – meet up is at 7:15 am. The ride starts promptly at 7:30 am.


Saturday Night Rode at Westgate River Ranch Resort

Every Saturday

Cowpokes and bronco busters descend upon Westgate River Ranch Resort every Saturday night at 7:30 pm for an evening of fun inside the 1,200-seat rodeo arena. The Saturday Night Rodeo features trick riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and rodeo clown antics. After that, get your feet moving during the lively Dance Party just outside the River Ranch Saloon. Enjoy music and games from a lively DJ to end a perfect day.


Every Saturday

Join us on Saturday afternoons for docent-led museum tours that highlight works from Rollins Museum of Art's current exhibitions.


Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise

Every Saturday

Join Old Town in Kissimmee every Saturday and take a trip down memory lane. The Old Town Classic Car Show has been a local tradition for over 30 years, it is one of the premier weekly car shows in Central Florida. The Saturday Classic Car Show begins at 1:00pm and welcomes show-quality 1985 and older hot rods, street rods, and antiques. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm. The event is free for participants and free for the public to attend.


Every Saturday

Live on the Lawn is your Saturday oasis to relax and recharge while listening to live music and playing lawn games with family and friends. Join Lake Nona from 11 am – 3 pm every Saturday!


Show Car Saturday Nights at Promenade at Sunset Walk

Every Saturday

The Promenade at Sunset Walk is home to Show Car Saturday Nights. All makes and models are welcome and displayed along Margaritaville Boulevard. Car enthusiasts will enjoy the music of DJ Scotty B while admiring an amazing collection of classic to modern automobiles, with live bands performing on the Promenade Plaza Stage nightly.


Every Saturday

The Sunset Saturday Artisan Market takes place at the Promenade at Sunset Walk every Saturday evening, featuring the best local artisan, craft, and specialty vendors from across Central Florida.


Every Saturday

The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8 am - 1 pm in beautiful Historic Winter Garden.


Every Saturday

The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is one of the best produce and plant markets in Central Florida which takes place every Saturday morning from 8 am - 1 pm in Central Park.


Every Saturday

The Lake Mary Farmers Market features local vendors of produce, plants, baked goods, and arts and crafts. The market is open every Saturday, from 9 am - 1:30 pm at Lake Mary City Hall.


Every Saturday

Visit every Saturday at the City of Longwood Farmers Market at Reiter Park from 9 am - 2 pm, with locally sourced seafood and produce to handmade crafts and more.


Every Saturday

Join in every Saturday morning in Lake Nona, the Lake Nona Farmers Market takes place in the beautiful Town Center from 11 am - 3 pm, shop local with the freshest produce and more.




SUNDAY, JANUARY 19, 2025


Event poster with MLK image, text: "38th Annual Celebration, Sanford, Florida, Men of the Movement: Charting a Path Forward." Background: crowd outdoors.

January 17 - 20

The City of Sanford Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Steering Committee, Inc. proudly presents the 38th Annual Celebration and Memorial Observance.This year’s theme is “Men of the Movement: Charting A Path Forward.”


We invite you to join us in celebrating the men who have been instrumental in driving forward the movements in Sanford. During the Dr. King holiday weekend, over four days, we will be hosting five events to keep the dream of Dr. King alive, including the annual MLK Parade. We would be grateful for your support in making these events a success and continuing to keep his dream alive.


January 19 - 20

This annual City of Winter Park festival celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and promotes community and family heritage. The two-day festival takes place in Shady Park across from the Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park. Sunday entertainment features music by local gospel bands and Monday includes a special program honoring Dr. King with ongoing musical artists. Special activities include children’s games, career booths, as well as retail and local food vendors. The Hannibal Square Heritage Center offers extended hours during the festival for visitors to learn about the history of Hannibal Square.


January 18 - 19

The history and culture of these events are centuries old and the Scottish-American Society of Central Florida are honored to represent that heritage at the Central Florida Scottish Highland Games. Experience traditional highland athletics, dance, art, music, culture and food!



January 18 - 19

Get ready for the 4th annual Celebrate Lunar festival, now a two-day event for the very first time! Join over 7,000 friends and neighbors on January 18 and 19, 2025, at Luminary Green Park in Downtown Orlando.



January 19

Celebrate your furry friends at the 5th Annual “Pets on the Promenade” on Sunday, January 19, 2024, from 12 noon to 4 PM at the always pet-friendly Promenade at Sunset Walk. Bing the whole family — both two-legged and four-legged — for an unforgettable afternoon dedicated to Man’s Best Friend! Featuring Live Music, Street Performers, Artisan Vendors plus over 30 Restaurants, Shops, & Experiences.


January 19

Get ready to immerse yourself in the sounds, sights, and sensations of Scottish Highland Games right here at the History Center. This family-friendly day has activities kids and parents will enjoy! Test your strength as you try tossing foam cabers, see the bright, bold colors of traditional kilts, and hear the lively melodies of bagpipe music


January 19

Renowned for their exquisite interpretations and mesmerizing performances, the Takács Quartet, joined by the exceptional talent of cellist David Requiro, delivers a transcendent musical experience that resonates with passion, precision, and profound emotion.


January 19

Timucua’s monthly free poetry and open mic series, Authentic Selves. Held the third Sunday of every month at Timucua. Hosted by Lauren White.


Enjoy yoga in the Garden in the midst of the beautiful Mead Botanical Garden

Every Saturday and Sunday

Enjoy yoga in the Garden in the midst of the beautiful Mead Botanical Garden. Take part in the opportunity to truly connect with yourself and nature. Saturdays, 9 – 10 am & Sundays 4 – 5 pm. $15 (Proceeds will benefit Mead Botanical Garden) . Bring a yoga mat and water.


Family Fun Day at Boxi Park

Every Sunday

Enjoy Family Fun Day every Sunday at Boxi Park, with face painters, balloon artists entertainers, and live music. Fun for the whole family! 1 pm - 9 pm.


Yoga in the Sculpture Garden at Mennello Museum of American Art

Every Sunday

Hosted by the Mennello Museum of American Art with classes led by certified Full Circle Yoga, Winter Park. Start your Sunday mornings out blissfully with a relaxing lakeside flow. Join us in the shade of the trees for a practice that is suitable for all levels! Don’t forget to bring a mat, towel, and water to have a great practice.


Orlando Family Market

Every Sunday

One of the most popular farmers markets in Central Florida, Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of Orlando at Lake Eola park, and takes place Sundays 10 am - 4 pm.


Celebration Farmers Market

Every Sunday

Every week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors selling everything from fresh food and produce, to local crafted jewelry, and much more, with a beautiful backdrop of Lakeside Park, this is a must go to farmers market on Sundays, 9 am - 2 pm


Every Sunday

The popular East Orlando Farmers Market offers hand selected produce, creative local small business owners, along with botanical varieties to chose from. Every Sunday 11 am - 4 pm.


Every Sunday

Clermont Farmer's Market features over 60 vendors selling seafood, organic produce, and other household items, this popular market is the place to go on Sundays 9 am - 2 pm.


Every Sunday

Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 0 am - 2 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors.


Sunday Sip Night Dave & Buster's Orlando

Every Sunday

Service Industry Professionals, this one is for you! Dave & Buster's Orlando is giving industry professionals 1/2 priced drinks and a FREE $10 Power Card every Sunday from at 9pm-close. Offer must be redeemed with a team member.


Every Sunday

Join Promenade at Sunset Walk every Sunday evenings as El Jefe Tequilas Taco Cantina, BR 77 Brazilian Steak House, and Estefan Kitchen Orlando present Sunday-Latin-Sunday. on the Promenade Plaza Stage, featuring the very best DJs from Central Florida including: DJ Gabriel, DJ J Quezt, DJ Elie, and DJ K1X spinning the best merengue, salsa, Latin pop, bachata, and more!


Every Sunday

Catch the free show with Jason Yoho and Friends every Sunday at Lil' Indies.


Every Sunday

A rooftop day party each and every Sunday at Aero.  Free entry all day, 21+. Hookah, Food, and Games.



To list your events and feature your business on Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.


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