Hey friends! How is it already May?? Summer is knocking on our door….any spring breeze we had is turning into summer heat. But don’t worry, I have some things we can do to keep cool! Get your calendars out. We have some things to do in Orlando May 2026!
Things To Do In Orlando May 2026 Guide
As a local, I’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Orlando this month. Whether you’re a foodie, a music junkie, or just looking to get out on the water, pull up a chair—here’s your ultimate guide.
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Can’t-Miss Music Festivals
Orlando is hitting a high note this month with some of the biggest names in music and the coolest local vibes.
- Next Door Live! Music Fest (May 24): This is one of my favorite “hyper-local” events. Head over to the Audubon Park Garden District for a walking music fest. It’s free, family-friendly, and features 11 local bands across 8 venues like East End Market and Redlight Redlight. If you’ve never visited East End Market it’s a collection of food stalls, shopping, and is an absolute delight! Be sure to head upstairs to one of my favorite “chill” spots, The Neighbors for a cocktail…you might find me up there!
- Welcome to Rockville (Daytona): Just a short drive away, this massive rock festival takes over the Speedway May 7-10. Checkout the 2026 lineup!
- Rolling Loud (May 8–10): While the main event is often in Miami, the energy ripples throughout Florida. If you’re a hip-hop fan, these are the dates to circle! (Likely to sell out)
Food, Drinks, & Special Pairings
If you know me, you know I’m here for the snacks. May 2026 is a massive month for Orlando’s culinary scene and I’m here for it! Who needs a summer body??
- Milk Mart 10th Anniversary Bash (May 31) 12-6pm: The “Big One-Oh!” The Milk District’s favorite local art and food festival is celebrating a decade. Expect over 300 makers, live music, and plenty of sweet treats. Get more info.
- Bootlegger’s Dinner at Enzo’s Hideaway (May 14): This is a fun one. Woodford Bourbon and bootlegging?! Count me in for this delicious (pasta & steak) event. And it’s at one of my favorite Disney Springs spots. It’s $104 per person and that includes tax and tip. Book here now before it sells out!
- Shaken & Stirred Cocktail Classes at The Edison: Want to up your home-bar game? The Edison at Disney Springs offers curated mixology classes where you can learn to craft the perfect drink in a stunning 1920s-power-plant setting. I’ve not participated in this class (yet) but I have partaken of The Edison’s delicious cocktails, so I know it will be a great class!
- Thornton Park Wine and Art Walk: I finally enjoyed this neighborhood staple last month. It was a great time…be sure to get there early the line gets long to pick up your glass. It’s a lovely stroll through one of Orlando’s most charming historic districts.
Theme Park & Big Attraction Fun
The parks aren’t just for tourists; May brings some unique events that locals love. That’s me…I’m the local and I love these events! You will definitely find me at Epcot and SeaWorld in May, and maybe a waterpark after dark!
- FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola (May 11–12): Soccer fans, assemble! The actual World Cup trophy is stopping at Universal CityWalk. It’s free, but you’ll need to register in advance here!
- Mermaid Meet & Greets at SEA LIFE (Select Dates, May 9–25): Catch real-life mermaids diving among the sharks and rays at ICON Park. It’s a total hit for the kids. Saturday & Sunday throughout May. Florida resident’s get a discount…
- After-Hours Water Park Events: Volcano Bay Nights is going on now and Aquatica has its AquaGlow events starting May 15th. Also keep an eye on Disney’s H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon starting in June. All these nighttime parties mean shorter lines, neon lights, and a DJ-led dance party!
- Food Festivals: Don’t forget the Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld (through May 17th) and the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, both have incredible outdoor kitchens! Be sure to watch my highlights from EPCOT.
Quirky Orlando & Outdoors
- Gatorpalooza at Gatorland (May 30–31): When my son was little we loved going to Gatorland. I may take him back (he’s an adult now) to celebrate “The Alligator Capital of the World” with their 6th annual festival. There’ll be a DJ, craft and food vendors, and lots of family fun! And you don’t want to miss the legendary Florida Man Challenge on Saturday—it’s exactly as wild as it sounds.
- Science Night Live (May 30): The Orlando Science Center opens its doors for an adults-only night (18+). It’s got everything you love about science but with cocktails, guest speakers, and no kids in sight.
- The Florida Prize in Contemporary Art (Opening May 30): The Orlando Museum of Art is launching its biggest exhibition yet. The preview party on May 29th is the place to be for local culture seekers.
- “The Savannah Bananas” brings Banana Ball (May 29-30): What you may not know about me is that I was born in Savannah! Yes, this “Florida girl” is actually a “peach” (don’t tell)! So, I’m excited for the “Banana Ball” world tour at ESPN Wide World of Sports. For info on how you can get in on this amazingly entertaining game, click here!
- Party for the Planet (May 16): Head to the Central Florida Zoo for a global celebration of conservation. They’re even hosting a massive two-day plant sale if you’re looking to green up your patio!
- Sunset Paddle Tours at King’s Landing: King’s Landing is so beautiful and it can get crowded. For something peaceful, book a Clear Kayak & Glow sunset tour. Their rental kayak’s must be used for this event and are equipped with color changing LED lights to light up the water. How cool is that?! This is the ultimate Florida reset be sure to check dates.
If you missed my Local’s Guide To Things To Do Beyond The Theme Parks it’s full of great things to do anytime of year!
Big Reopenings & Disney Magic
Before we wrap up, I have to mention the massive news over at Walt Disney World. May 2026 is officially the month of “The Great Reopening!”
If you’ve been missing the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness,” you’re in luck: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has officially reopened at Magic Kingdom as of May 3rd with some stunning new effects.
But the real splash happens mid-month. Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to reopen on May 12, 2026! The best part? For the first time in years, both water parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach) will be open simultaneously for the summer season.
Star Wars: Smugglers Run (May 22): The first-ever mission update featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu officially launches.
Soarin’ Across America (May 26): EPCOT debuts this limited-time flight over the USA’s most iconic landscapes.
May 26 is also bring Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Review to the Magic Kingdom. This show is a limited-time musical show at the Diamond Horseshoe! (Dining at this restaurant will close May 16th in preparation for this event and dining won’t reopen until the fall)
Also reopening on May 26 is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets (Hollywood Studios). I will miss the Aerosmith version! But I love knew things so I’m looking forward to experiencing this Muppet themed coaster.
Pro-Tip: If you are staying at a Disney Resort starting May 26, don’t forget that you now get free water park admission on your check-in day! It’s the perfect way to kick off your vacation without burning a park hopper day.
Do You Have Your May 2026 Game Plan?
Whether you’re dodging “Florida Man” at Gatorland, bootlegging at Enzo’s, or being among the first to ride the refurbished Big Thunder Mountain, May in Orlando is truly unbeatable. The city is buzzing, the water is warm, and there’s a little bit of magic around every corner….please, go ENJOY yourself!
I hope this guide helps you navigate the best of the “City Beautiful” this month. If you see me out at Milk Mart or grabbing a cocktail at The Edison, come say hi! And as always, tag me @flamingoinfantasyland on Instagram!
Thanks for reading!
Pack Like a Pro: My May Essentials
To make the most of the Florida heat and those sudden afternoon showers, here are a few things I never head to the parks (or the paddle tours!) without.
- The Ultimate Cooling Towel – Trust me, once the humidity hits 80%, you’ll want this draped around your neck.
- Portable Fan – A lifesaver for those mid-day festival lines and I love that I can clip to my bag!
- Waterproof Phone Pouch – Perfect for the sunset paddle at King’s Landing or a day at Typhoon Lagoon. This one is a belt bag style….which I love! Don’t knock a belt bag until you try it.
- Rechargeable Power Bank – Between taking photos for the ‘gram and checking wait times on the apps, your battery will thank you.
(Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you! Thank you for supporting the blog!)
What’s on your May bucket list? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!
