On the first weekend in November each year you should plan to sail on down to Sebastian, and join in Capt. Hiram’s Pirate Fest, me hearties! There are 40 pirate ships engaging in entertaining battles from ship to shore with sword fights and real cannons – the kids will love it! Sunday is Rumday with a brunch, kayak racing and a balloon toss. There are pirate bands, special grog to drink and an interesting Wench and Gnarly Pirate fancy dress competition.
Volusia County Fair is also well underway and runs for 11 days from the first weekend in November. There are fairground rides, live entertainment and great food at the Volusia County Fairground.
Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is another annual event, now in its 17th year. It is a wonderful attraction with renowned chefs putting on demonstrations, mixologists showing how to shake a great cocktail, and plenty of live entertainment to keep the party rocking. There are 30 stalls in the global marketplace, creating tapas-size servings of international cuisine in keeping with the theme of Epcot’s pavilions. Entrance is free with the regular Epcot admission, but expect to spend $40 upwards sampling just some of the food and drink, with plates ranging from $4-9.
Daytona Beach Greek Festival is held the second weekend in November at the St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. You can learn about Greek culture and traditions, enjoy the music and sample authentic Greek food.
Those in the Winter Park area on the second weekend in November can admire a collection of over 100 exotic and rare cars all polished and gleaming and hoping for a prize at the 11th annual Winter Park Concours d’Elegance. It’s a dream day out for car enthusiasts!
Lake Buena Vista at Downtown Disney is hosting its nationally recognized art show beside the lake which makes a beautiful setting for this outdoor event. The Annual Festival of the Masters is in its 37th year in 2012, with the works of more than 200 award-winning artists on show. Live entertainment, chalk art and children’s activities run throughout this three-day event.
It’s never too soon to get into the spirit of the Holiday season. The Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art transforms the grounds into a wonderland of decorated Christmas trees, gingerbread houses and wreaths. It runs for 9 days from the second weekend in the month and this year’s theme is “Once Upon a Time, a Fairytale Festival.”
Jazz Friday at the Fossaner Museum of Art in Melbourne is not just held in November - it is celebrated every third Friday of the month within the gallery. Great music and wonderful artworks combine to make this a relaxed evening of culture.
Finally, the Art, Craft and Wine Festival at Altamonte Springs is held on the third weekend in November and makes a great place to do a little holiday shopping. There are 100 craft stalls and a pleasant Wine Stroll. Enjoy!
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Day Trips Around Orlando Florida
