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A lifestyle magazine for Central Florida's modern parents

March 2023 Family-Friendly Events Around Orlando

Go PLAY! Here is a list of Orlando’s best family events in March 2023.

<<<February 2023 EventsApril 2023 Events>>>

Fill out this form to get your event added to our list.

All Month Long

Universal Studios Mardi Gras Celebration 
Now–April 16, Parade starts at 6:15 p.m. 
Universal Orlando
 
Mardi Gras Celebration going on now through April 16. Included with your admission to the parks.

Seven Seas Food Festival 
February 17–May 7 
SeaWorld Orlando 

Enjoy the tastes of the Seven Seas at the annual event at SeaWorld Orlando. SeaWorld offers 200+ flavors and 28 live concerts! Experience something new every night while you set sail on a tasting adventure around the park.

Seven Seas Food Festival

FunHundred!
Now through April 30
Mead Botanical Garden

FunHundred! is an immersive art exhibit created with found, reclaimed and sustainable items built mostly by our local community. Admire the imaginative art, play with the giant game pieces, read a free book in the garden, and learn some cool history along the way. The exhibit is the Chamber’s gift to the community to commemorate our centennial and celebrate 100 years of economic vitality and progress in Winter Park. Entry is free.

FunHundred! | Mead Botanical Garden

March 1-5, 2023

Central Florida Fair 
March 2–March 12 
Central Florida Fairgrounds 

The Central Florida Fair is celebrating its 111th year here and we’re ready to eat cotton candy, funnel cakes and enjoy some rides while playing carnival games for prizes! Special event nights, too with wrestling on March 4 from 79 p.m. and Keshi in Concert on March 5 at 7 p.m.

Central Florida Fair

Florida Strawberry Festival 
March 2–March 12, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. 
Plant City 

It’s that time of year again for the annual Strawberry Festival in Plant City, FL and we’re ready! Are you? Each Spring they offer lots of different recipes with strawberries from vendors, fun rides and attractions, plus performances and entertainment.

Art Adventures: Painting from Life 
Friday, March 3, 9:30 a.m.–11 a.m. 
Orlando Museum of Art 

This family workshop 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. Pre-registration is required. 

Art Adventures at OMA

Orlando Solar Bears vs Florida Everblades 
Friday, March 3, 7 p.m. 
Amway Center 

Let’s cheer on our Orlando Solar Bears as they play hockey against the Florida Everblades. Enjoy the game, fantastic food vendors, and a chance to meet the mascot Shades! A family fun event for everyone and awesome ticket prices!  

Movie Night: The Goonies 
Friday, March 3, 7:30 p.m. 
Leu Gardens 

Enjoy an outdoor movie in Orlando’s most beautiful garden. Pack a dinner picnic basket and seating, alcohol is permitted. This movie is rated PG, children under 13 years of age require accompanying parent or adult guardian, weather permitting. Tickets are only available online.  

Movie Night at Leu Gardens

Stuffed Animal Sleepover 
Drop off is Friday, March 3, 6 p.m.–8 p.m. 
Pickup is Saturday, March 4, 8 a.m.–10 a.m. 
Chick-fil-A of Oviedo/North UCF

When the cow’s away, the kangaroos, teddy bears, bunny rabbits, dinosaurs and horses will play! Chick-fil-A of Oviedo/North UCF is hosting a sleepover for your child’s furriest friends! Your family is invited for a special dinner with the Chick-fil-A Cow. We will have fun activities for you to do with your furry friend. At the end of the evening, your child will tuck their animal in bed. Come for breakfast the next morning to pick up your stuffed animal from 8 a.m-10:00 a.m, and you’ll also receive pictures of what your animal did at their amazing Chick-fil-A sleepover! Don’t forget to wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animal! No reservation needed.

Nature Center Open House 
Saturday, March 4, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. 
Ed Yarborough Nature Center at the Geneva Wilderness Area 

Stop in and visit the Ed Yarborough Nature Center! Meet and greet with the animal residents and explore the exhibits and displays. Join a knowledgeable guide on a short hike to the fishing pier where you might spy some wild creatures! All ages are welcome. No registration required.  

Pinball Game Kid’s Workshop
Saturday, March 4, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
The Home Depot

Enjoy some quality time with your child and craft a Pinball Game at The Home Depot free kid’s workshop on the first Saturday of every month. Register here: https://www.homedepot.com/workshops/

Touch-a-Truck Event  
Saturday, March 4, 12–3 p.m. 
Addition Financial Arena   

It’s the 10th Annual Touch-a-Truck FREE family-fun event that gives kids the opportunity to learn more about the trucks and vehicles they see daily. The Knights Plaza will be open for lunch and opportunities to shop.

Hansel & Gretel 
Saturday, March 4, 1 p.m. 
The Little People’s Theater Company, Oviedo Mall 

Experience the classic storybook play come to life before your very eyes as Hansel & Gretel journey into the forest to find food. Plays are interactive. Kids will have fun booing the not-so-scary Witch of Candyville, helping the Good Fairy find her magic wand and giving Hansel & Gretel advice. This play is 40 minutes long. The play is wholesome and never scary!

Monster Jam  
Saturday, March 4, Pit Party at 2:30 p.m., Doors Open at 5 p.m.  
Camping World Stadium 

Let’s start our engines for the annual Monster Jam at Camping World Stadium. Time to cheer on your favorite monster trucks and drivers and see some action-packed stunt shows and competitions.

Full Moon Hike 
Saturday, March 4, 6:30–8:30 p.m. 
Lake Harney Wilderness Area 

Enjoy the splendor of this month’s full moon and search for hidden night creatures. Cost is $5. Space is limited. Children must be 7 years old and accompanied by an adult. Registration required.

Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade 
Sunday, March 5, 2 p.m.
Central Park, Winter Park
 
The City of Winter Park will host its 44th Annual Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Winter Park. The parade will start at Webster Avenue and proceed southwards along Park Avenue, to Lyman Avenue

Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade 

March 6-12, 2023

Story Time at Leu Gardens 
Monday, March 6, 10 a.m. 
Leu Gardens 

Share stories, songs and fun with your little one presented by Orange County Library System. This is a free indoor event. 
Story Time Schedule 
10:00–10:15: Infants up to 18 months 
10:20–10:35: Toddlers, 18 months–2 years old 
10:40–11:00: Preschoolers, 3–5 years old 

The SpongeBob Musical 
March 6–April 30, Various times 
March 19, 6 p.m., Sensory-friendly Performance
April 23, 10:30 a.m., ASL Performance
Orlando Repertory Theatre 

Are you ready, kids? The hit Nickelodeon show has become a big, splashy Broadway musical! Dive into the undersea town of Bikini Bottom with SpongeBob and his quirky circle of friends and neighbors – Patrick, Sandy, Squidward, Mr. Krabs, and even Plankton – in this dynamic stage musical with songs from music’s most legendary artists.  

Storytime at the Zoo 
Wednesday, March 8, 10 a.m. 
Central Florida Zoo 

Enjoy animal stories at the Zoo along with a special visit from one of our ambassador animals. Programs will be presented by the Orange County Library System storytellers. This free program is designed for pre-school age children. Free. No registration required. Zoo admission not included or required.

Glow Party 
Thursday, March 9, 6–11 p.m. 
Boxi Park, Lake Nona 

Glow up at Boxi for a Blond Ambition Glow Party. They’ll provide the band and the glow sticks. You bring your best moves as we light up the dance floor. $5 cover at the door | all ages welcome.

Daytona 200  
March 9–11, 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m.  
Daytona International Speedway 

Don’t miss the 81st running Daytona 200 where the best motorcyclists in the world compete to win the trophy. Watch this challenge in the grandstands or infield starting at $45 and kids under 12 are FREE! 

Kissimmee Collectorfest 
Saturday, March 11, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 
Osceola Heritage Park 

Come check out the Kissimmee Collectorfest where you will find lots of classic and vintage toys, comics and more from all your favorites! Tickets are $10. Kids under 12 get a FREE hot wheel at the door, plus adults will have fun seeing all the vintage items throughout the years.  

Orlando Unity Festival 
Saturday, March 11, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 
Washington St
., Orlando
Get ready for Spring Break with this Caribbean style festival in Downtown Orlando with LIVE entertainment and performances, plus awesome food vendors and bounce houses for the kids.  

Wild Zoo Art for Families 
Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. 
Central Florida Zoo 

Kids and canvases! It’s art gone WILD at the Zoo! Join us for an exciting opportunity to meet a special animal up close and paint its portrait. An art instructor will guide everyone to create their own masterpiece as both kids and adults meet some amazing animals at the Zoo! Supplies will be provided. Space is limited. Ages 5-13. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Payment is required for all attendees.

Kid’s Cooking Class
Saturday, March 11, 11 a.m.
Terralina Crafted Italian, Disney Springs

Attention young chefs, Terralina Crafted Italian announces the return of their Kids Cooking Class series. The one-hour class ($30 per child) will be led by Executive Chef Justin Plank. Kids will learn how to create iconic Italian favorites while embracing the cuisine’s philosophy, which translates to all age groups – homemade, quality ingredients, simply prepared with love. In addition to making their meal, each aspiring chef will also receive a drink and sundae to enjoy during class, and a gift bag that includes an apron and chef hat to commemorate the experience. The class is designed for kids ages 5-12 and space is limited to 25 kids per class. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Purchase tickets here. Make a day of it and plan to hit the new Disney Springs

Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat 
Saturday, March 11, 7 p.m. 
Amway Center 

Let’s cheer on our Orlando Magic basketball team as they go against the Miami Heat with the game starting at 7 p.m. and tickets starting at $60 each.



Lucky Charms Cupcake Recipe
Local blogger Molly Shapiro Boe of The Preppy Hostess created this magically delicious recipe for you to create with the kids for St. Patty’s Day. These fluffy green cupcakes are topped with sprinkles and Lucky Charms marshmallows!


March 13-19, 2023

Kidiverse Turns 2
March 13-March 18
Kidiverse Orlando

There’s no party like a Kidiverse birthday party and they are celebrating their second anniversary in a big way! Throughout the whole week of March 13 to March 18, they will be offering discounts on admission prices and birthday packages! Visit ourkidiverse.com for more information.

Shen Yun 2023 
March 16–18, Shows at 2 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. 
Dr Phillips Center for Performing Arts 

Join us for an explosion of color and sound on the stages of the Dr Phillips Performing Arts Center with tons of dancers for the Shen Yun performance of 2023 that you won’t want to miss!

Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival 
March 16–18 
Raglan Road 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the most authentic festival at Raglan Road. Tons of Irish bands and entertainment, plus Raglan Road’s signature beer flight and lots of giveaways and fun for the whole family.

Raglan Road

Pancakes & Pajamas St. Patrick’s Day Party
Friday, March 17, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
My Enchanted Events Venue, Casselberry

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Tutu Tales, in your favorite PJs for a St. Paddy’s themed breakfast pancake bar, performances by your favorite characters, a scavenger hunt for golden coins and a special rainbow painting project. Tickets are $35 per guest.

Board Games in Nature and Garden Exploration 
Friday, March 17, 10 a.m. 
Mead Botanical Garden
 
All ages welcome at this monthly board games in nature event. Families can bring a game to share or check the event updates for games other families plan to bring and the appropriate ages to participate. We will play at tables and on the pavement under a shaded pavilion. There is plenty of open space to play and explore as well. 
Flexible Schedule: 
10 a.m.: Arrivals at the first pavilion and free play 
10:30 a.m.: Intros and safety talk 
10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Board game fun! 
11:30 a.m.: Child led exploration of gardens

Mead Botanical Garden

St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Oviedo 
March 17 & 18
Central Lake Park in Oviedo

The community of Oviedo has invited us out to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a two-day event to celebrate the Irish with green beer and lots of fun entertainment.

64th Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival 
Friday, March 17 & Saturday, March 18, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.  
Sunday, March 19, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 
Central Park 

Don’t miss the 64th Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival along Park Avenue in Central Park celebrating with music and entertainment, food vendors and more!

St. Patrick’s Day Truck Pull & Street Festival 
Saturday, March 18, 4-9 p.m. 
Historic Downtown Sanford 

Event takes place in the ‘Famous L’ between Celery City Craft and West End Trading Co. Watch teams try to pull a fire truck to benefit Special Needs Advocacy Program, Inc. Live music on multiple stages, lots of craft beer, food trucks, craft vendors and lots of Sanford Fun! 

March 20-26, 2023

Uptown Art Expo 
March 24–26 
Cranes Roost Park 

This show has a little bit of everything for everyone. Great artists, awesome live music, delicious food trucks and drink tents to stop at along the way… all in a perfect location! Fun for the whole family.

Seminole County Fair
March 24April 2
Seminole Towne Center

The 25th Annual Seminole County Fair is a traditional celebration for the whole family. This family-friendly event is bigger and better than ever and will feature state-of-the-art thrill rides, a Kiddieland designed especially for children, delicious fair food and challenging games of skill.

The Great Duck Derby
Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. 
Mead Gardens 
Let’s get quacking and head over to Mead Gardens for their annual Great Duck Derby featuring little yellow rubber duck races.

Winter Park 10k & 2 Mile Race 
Saturday, March 25, 7 a.m. 
Park Avenue, Winter Park

Join Track Shack for the Winter Park Road Race 10k and 2 mile, plus kids run where the whole family can participate.

Maitland Fire-Rescue Open House
Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Station 45, 1776 Independence Lane

Bring the family for games, prize drawings, food, music, fire trucks and equipment displays and demonstrations. Meet Happie the Clown with face painting and animal balloons.


Apopka Jazz Festival 
Saturday, March 25, 4 p.m. 
Apopka Amphitheater  

Let’s check out the Apopka Jazz Festival where you’ll hear Contemporary Jazz and R&B artists. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Apopka band, for their uniforms, instruments to the students and to the community.

Night Hike at the Zoo! 
Saturday, March 25, 7:30–10 p.m. 
Central Florida Zoo 

Experience the sights and sounds for the zoo at night during this awesome adventure. This is a great program for families at $25 per adult and $20 per child ages 5-12.

Pirate Seafood Festival 
Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. 
Sunday, March 26, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 
Reiter Park, Longwood 

Join us for a family-friendly weekend packed with unique entertainment, great food and lots of fun. Hang out with a mermaid or two! A huge variety of SEAFOOD is on the menu, but you’ll find great food for the landlubbers too. Free to attend.

Sunday in the Park 
Sunday, March 26, 11 a.m. 
Dartmouth Park, College Park 

College Park’s annual spring Celebration, hosted by the College Park Neighborhood Association, is a family-friendly event that will feature food trucks, local vendors, kids activities including a pirate-ship bounce house, music and more!  

March 27-31, 2023

MegaCon Orlando 
March 30–April 2 
Orange County Convention Center 

Experience one of North America’s largest Comic, Sci-Fi, Horror, Anime and Gaming events. Four BIG days of citywide events, family-friendly attractions and world-renowned celebrities await. Join hundreds of thousands of fans who are just like you.

Dog Man Day Celebration
Tuesday, March 28, 7 p.m.
B. Dalton Bookseller, Oviedo Mall
 
The highly anticipated new graphic novel in the #1 worldwide bestselling Dog Man series starring everyone’s favorite canine superhero by award-winning author and illustrator Dav Pilkey is coming! Dog Man has taken over B. Dalton Bookseller and friends of all ages are invited to celebrate the newest book in Dav Pilkey’s acclaimed series “Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea.” Participate in fun activities and take home some amazing prizes.

Easter Sip & Shop
Thursday, March 30, 6 – 8 p.m.
The Whimsy Emporium, Lake Mary

Enjoy an evening of shopping for your kids Easter baskets with drinks and snacks.

Fill out this form to get your event added to our list.

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