Weather, Crowd & Events: Best Time To Go To Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida is a popular tourist destination known for its theme parks, warm weather, and vibrant culture. However, with so much to see and do, planning a trip to Orlando can be overwhelming.

One important factor to consider when planning your visit is when you plan on visiting Orlando. The weather, crowd levels, and special events can greatly affect your experience in the city. This guide will discuss the best time to visit Orlando based on weather, crowd levels, and special events.

Winter Wonderland (December – February)

During the winter months, Orlando experiences mild temperatures with an average high of 73°F (23°C) and a low of 50°F (10°C). This makes it a popular time to visit for those looking to escape the colder climates of other states.

December

Weather

December marks the onset of the winter season in Orlando. This month is one of the coolest months in Orlando, with an above-average high of 73°F (23°C) and a winter low of 52°F (11°C). There may also be occasional rain showers, so packing layers and rain gear is important.

Crowds

The first two weeks of December tend to have fewer crowds compared to the rest of the month. However, as holiday weekends come closer, crowds will gradually rise due to school breaks and Christmas events at many theme parks.

Events and activities

  • Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Experience the magic of Disney during the holiday season with this special event at Magic Kingdom. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party offers visitors festive entertainment, a storybook holiday atmosphere, sweet treats, and more!
  • Holiday parades and celebrations: Various parades and events are held throughout the city, including Universal Orlando’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s and SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. These events make Orlando a must-visit for families with kids during school holidays.
  • Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, presented by AdventHealth, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit with festive sounds, sights, and flavors of the season.

January

Weather

January is the coldest month in Orlando, with an average high of 71°F (22°C) and a low of 50°F (10°C). However, it is still considered mild compared to other parts of the country. Rain showers are also common, so be sure to pack accordingly.

Crowds

The start of January typically sees higher crowds, but as the month progresses, the crowds tend to decrease due to school reopening. This is a great time to visit Orlando if you want to avoid peak-season crowds.

Events and activities

  • Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: At Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, you can join thousands of runners for this popular race weekend at Walt Disney World Resort.
  • Epcot International Festival of the Arts: This annual festival at Epcot showcases art from all over the world, including visual arts, live performances, and culinary delights. It runs from January through February.

February

Weather

February sees a slight increase in average temperatures, with an average high of 74°F (23°C) and an average low of 51°F (11°C). Rain is still common, therefore pack accordingly.

Crowds

The first half of February tends to have fewer crowds, but as Valentine’s Day approaches in the second week, visitors can expect larger crowds. However, overall it is still considered a relatively serene time to visit Orlando.

Events and activities

  • Mardi Gras at Universal Studios: Running from February to April, Universal Studios celebrates Mardi Gras with a parade featuring colorful floats and performers, as well as live concerts, street performances, and much more, making it a perfect stop for everybody.

Spring into Fun (March-May)

Spring is the best time to go to Orlando, Florida and its theme parks!

Orlando experiences a lot of tourists during the spring season, due to spring break, pleasantly warm weather, and beautiful blooming flowers throughout the city. However, be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds during the spring break season.

Lake Eola Park Orlando

March

Weather

March sees an increase in temperatures, with an average high of 77°F (25°C) and a low of 54°F (12°C). It is also one of the driest months in Orlando, making it a great time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities without dealing with excessive heat or humidity.

Crowds

The best time to visit Orlando is during March because this month marks the onset of spring break for many schools. Although, due to the onset of spring break for many schools, the crowds can be a tad bit overwhelming. However, weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends.

Events and activities

  • Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival: Running from March to May, this annual festival at Epcot showcases stunning floral displays, gardening demonstrations, and outdoor kitchens with delicious food, offering visitors a chance to elevate their palate.
  • Mardi Gras at Universal Studios: Universal’s Mardi Gras is the perfect, indelible springtime activity for everybody. Continue the celebration of Mardi Gras with more concerts, appalling street performers, vibrant music, and festivities at Universal Studios, Orlando.

April

Weather

April is one of the best times to visit Orlando. The weather is warm but not too hot, with an average high of 82°F (28°C) and a low of 59°F (15°C). With minimal chances of rain, April is one of the best times to visit Orlando and is among the driest months of the year.

Crowds

The first half of April still sees high crowds due to spring break, but as the month progresses the crowds tend to decrease. However, Easter weekend can bring an increase in crowds and prices.

Events and activities

  • Easter at Walt Disney World: The parks at Walt Disney World offer special Easter-themed events and activities for the whole family, including character meet-and-greets, egg hunts, and holiday-inspired treats.

May

Weather

May marks the end of spring in Orlando, with daytime temperatures reaching an average high of 88°F (31°C) and a low of 66°F (19°C). May is start of the wet season and occasional rain showers can be expected.

Crowds

The entire month of May sees moderate crowds, making it a great time to visit if you wish to avoid peak season crowds and prices. Memorial Day weekend in the last week of May may see a slight increase in crowds.

Events and activities

  • Star Wars Days at Legoland Florida: Get your lightsabers ready for this annual event at Legoland Florida, featuring special Star Wars-themed shows and activities. Dress up as your favorite character and join in on the fun!
  • Orlando Fringe Festival: Orlando Fringe Festival: This annual performing arts festival showcases unique and experimental works from local artists. It runs for 14 days in May and features a variety of shows, including theater, dance, music, and more.

Summer visit in Sunshine State (June – August)

Summer in Orlando is all about outdoor fun, water parks, and beating the heat. However, be prepared for high temperatures and humidity.

June

Weather

June marks the beginning of the summer months in Orlando, with high temperatures reaching an average of 91°F (33°C) and a low of 73°F (23°C). Rain showers are also common during this month.

Hurricane season in Orlando runs from June with the peak typically occurring from August to October. Due to this, visitors can expect fewer crowds and shorter wait lines. During this period, the area is more susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes.

Crowds

As schools let out for summer break, the crowds tend to increase in early June as many families visit Orlando for their summer vacation. Weekdays may see slightly lower crowds compared to weekends. The crowd and prices remain high throughout June.

Events and activities

  • Summer Nights at SeaWorld: Enjoy extended park hours, fireworks, and nighttime shows during this annual event at SeaWorld Orlando.
  • AquaGlow at Aquatica Orlando: Experience a water park like never before at this special nighttime event featuring music, glow-in-the-dark floats, and more.

July

Weather

July is the hottest month in Orlando, with an average high temperature of 92°F (34°C) and a low of 74°F (23°C). Humidity levels are quite high during this time. Be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned attractions.

Crowds

Despite the high temperature and humidity, July is still a popular time for tourists in Orlando. In July, tourists can expect high crowds and prices throughout the month.

Events and activities

  • Fourth of July Celebrations: Orlando offers various events and fireworks displays to celebrate Independence Day. The celebration at Lake Eola Park is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
  • Disney Springs Flavors of Florida: This event showcases different dishes and cuisines around the Sunshine States. Flavors of Florida is an amazing festival for any foodie!

August

Weather

The late summer month of August brings hot and humid weather, similar to that of July. Temperatures reach an average high of 92°F (33°C) and a low of 74°F (24°C). Thunderstorms are also common in the afternoons.

Crowds

Crowds at theme parks and attractions tend to decrease in August, making it a great time for those looking to avoid long wait times and high prices. However, be aware that some attractions may have shortened hours or closures during this time for annual maintenance.

Events and activities

  • Orlando’s Magical Dining: During August, over 100 restaurants in Orlando offer special three-course meals at a fixed price, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to charity.
  • Start of Halloween Events: Halloween starts early in Orlando, with some of the major theme parks starting their Halloween events and decorations in late August.

To know more about the events in August 2024, read Orlando99’s article on Orlando’s events happening in August.

Fall in Florida (September – November)

As summer comes to an end and fall begins, Orlando gets milder and cooler weather, and the crowds begin to thin out. This season is a great time to visit for those looking for milder, comfortable temperatures, and shorter wait times at popular attractions.

Walt Disney World Orlando

September

Weather

September marks the end of summer in Orlando, with temperatures starting to cool down in early September. The average high is 90°F (32°C) and the average low is 72°F (23°C). Humidity levels also start to decrease during this month.

Crowds

As the school year starts back up, mid-September sees a decrease in crowds at theme parks and attractions. However, weekends may still see a moderate amount of visitors due to events and festivals happening during September.

Events and activities

  • Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: This annual event at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom features special Halloween-themed shows, parades, and trick-or-treating throughout the park.
  • Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: Sample food and drinks from around the world at this popular festival taking place at Epcot from September through November.

October

Weather

October brings pleasant temperatures to Orlando, with an average high of 84°F (29°C) and a low of 65°F (18°C). However, be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and rain showers.

Crowds

As Halloween approaches, the crowds start to pick up again in October. Weekends may see higher attendance due to events and festivals happening at theme parks and attractions.

Events and activities

  • Halloween Horror Nights: Universal Orlando’s annual event is a must-do for fans of horror and thrill rides. Experience haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows based on popular horror franchises.
  • SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular: This family-friendly event features trick-or-treating, dance parties, character meet-and-greets, and more at SeaWorld Orlando.

November

Weather

The temperatures continue to cool down in November, with an average high of 78°F (26°C) and a low of 59°F (15°C). It is also the start of the dry season in Orlando.

Crowds

November sees moderate crowds at theme parks and attractions, with peak attendance during Thanksgiving week.

Events and activities

  • Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: Celebrate holiday traditions from around the world at this festival featuring food, music, and more at Epcot.
  • Holiday Events at Universal Orlando: Experience Christmas-themed shows, parades, and decorations at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Don’t miss out on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s holiday festivities as well!

Orlando is a year-round destination but planning when to visit Orlando is important as everyone has different weather and crowd preferences.

For those who prefer fewer crowds and comfortable weather, the seasons in spring and fall may be the best time to visit. If you’re after festive events and holiday magic, the winter season provides an unforgettable experience.

We hope this article helps you plan your next vacation to the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’, Orlando!

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