We’re going to all be wearing a different type of mask this Halloween. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy!

Here’s our round up of things to enjoy this fall in and around Orlando and Central Florida.

Remember that, given the current need for COVID-secure procedures, most events require you to book online in advance. You’ll also need to adhere to social distancing rules and wear a mask.

If you have any queries or concerns ahead of your visit, please contact the venue or organiser directly.

Halloween Fun in Orlando’s theme parks

In the parks, many events have been scaled back or cancelled (notably Mickey’s not-so-scary-Halloween Party and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights).

Nevertheless, Universal has plenty of Halloween themed décor, merchandise and trick or treating to enjoy.  Plus, there are two Haunted House attractions to get your fear fix!

Disney is also ratcheting up the Halloween-themed goodies, sweet treats and décor around the Magic Kingdom.  Your little ones can still enjoy plenty of themed character meet and greets and scaled-back parades.

SeaWorld’s Spooktacular is continuing this year, with changes to the trick or treating to enable better safety and social distancing, as well as other special themed activities around the park.

Halloween Fun in Orlando and Central Florida

Away from the parks, we’re delighted that some of our favourite low-key fall events are running this year.  Lakeridge Winery is known for its family-friendly events as much as its delicious wines and tasting tours, and from October 3rd and 4th, it’s bringing back its Weekends at the Winery events. This year, its featuring some of the area’s best food trucks along with the outdoor wine bar.

Enjoy some great food and wine under the trees, then try your luck at the cornhole games set up for some outdoor fun. The winery’s beautiful grounds offer plenty of outdoor space so you can enjoy a safe, social distance as you sip! See more information here.

Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins is a daytime Halloween event taking place weekends from October 10th through November 1st.

Costumes are encourage for this family-friendly event with spooky train rides, costume contests, and a trick-or-treat trail from 11am to 2pm. There’s also Frank & Stein’s Octoberfest, featuring an undead polka band and German Beer and food. Note that face masks are required per Orange County Executive Order # 2020-23 regarding COVID 19, and must be visible at all times (you can find out more about Gatorland’s safe reopening policy on its website).

Book tickets in advance – there’s a half-price deal for Florida residents through October 31st. Halloween activities are included in the normal admission.

For a really rural take on the fall festival, Our Fall events at Southern Hill Farms in Clermont began on Saturday, September 26th and continue until November 8th (Thursday to Sunday).

Events feature live music, local food trucks, Farm Wagon rides, and Southern Hill Farms seasonal favourites including fresh apple cider donuts, blueberry lemonade and pumpkin muffins. While adults tuck in or cut a bouquet of beautiful sunflowers and zinnias, kids will adore the petting zoo and playground. Then pick out your perfect Jumbo Jack pumpkin for carving.

To help ensure safe social distancing, this year’s events are going ahead with 40 percent of normal capacity.  You’ll need to book in advance here.

At Orlando’s CityArts, 39 S Magnolia Avenue, you can take part in a wonderful outdoor art event on Thursday, October 15, 2020.  The 11th Annual Dia de los Muertos and Monster Event is a themed exhibition at CityArts Orlando and an outdoor experience with live performances, vendors, and more! Now in its 11th year, the Día de los Muertos & Monster Art Exhibitions will showcase Day of the Dead and Halloween-inspired art created by regional, national, and international artists. This unique art exhibition will be paired with an outdoor experience on opening night that will feature food, drinks, entertainment and spooky art vendors.

Cost to enter CityArts only: $5

Cost of the Outdoor Dining Experience $35-$40 per person/seat

It is essential to book in advance and you can do this online.

Note that all guests will be required to wear a face covering, but guests may remove their face coverings if they are clearly eating or drinking outside CityArts.  All guests are required to register for a time-of-entry; only 20 people are permitted at a time.  For more details about CityArts’ COVID-19 Reopening Protocol, visit https://downtownartsdistrict.com/covid-19/.

There’s plenty more happening besides, these are simply our pick.  We’d love to hear your suggestions for fun fall or Halloween events – add your comments and suggestions below!

Or, if you’d like to write a review for our blog, please get in touch with our team.