Popular Events Near Orlando

YES, Orlando is the home of Disneyworld, and that's likely to take up a bunch of family time on your trip. But what if you are in the area and want to check out other events in Orlando this weekend? Luckily, we've got you covered: Orlando has a ton of great entertainment options for visitors and locals alike. The Orlando calendar of events is often packed with excellent activities for both families and singles as well, meaning there's plenty of variety here.

Love basketball? Then feel the magic — this city plays host to the Orlando Magic, a basketball franchise that's been home to legends Shaquille O'Neal, Penny Hardaway, and Dwight Howard. Check out the Orlando calendar of events to find a game or eight that you just can't miss.

If you're more of a soccer fan, don't worry. Orlando soccer tickets are right up your alley. The city even has a major league soccer team, the Orlando City SC, who play in the Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. In 2017, the new Orlando City Stadium opened to make Orlando City games a top event in the area. Orlando Pride is another soccer event that local fans can enjoy. The women’s professional soccer team plays at the Exploria Stadium, previously known as Orlando City Stadium, in downtown Orlando. Tickets to see Orlando City and Orlando Pride games are available on CheapTickets.

Sports and theater fans, take note: Get those cheap Orlando tickets on CheapTickets in advance, so you can spend your time doing something far more valuable kicking back and really enjoying the best events Orlando has to offer.

History of Orlando

As the legend goes, Orlando was originally named after the area's first settler, Aaron Jernigan. After a series of disgraceful acts by its namesake, Jernigan, Florida soon needed a new name. Orlando Reeves just happened to be one of the area's proudest locals, so in a show of respect, the early founders renamed the town after him instead.

Little did they know that their now-honorable 'founder' would be overshadowed decades later by a far more interesting native — a certain mouse and his vast magical kingdom. Today, Orlando is known for just about a single thing: Amusement parks. But that's nowhere near all you can do in this strange and wonderful metropolis. See a thrilling NASCAR race, the Florida Citrus Bowl, or Broadway shows at venues like the Plaza Theatre.

Did you know these facts about Orlando?

• The Orange County Convention Center is the second largest convention space in the continental United States; as a matter of fact, the majority of convention events in Orlando happen here.
• The Florida Mall is located in Orlando and is one of the largest single-story malls in the country.
• You can see your favorite characters dance across the ice at Disney On Ice: Follow Your Heart at Amway Center. You can also catch the ethereal performances and contortionists of Cirque du Soleil - Ovo here as well.

Things to Do in Orlando

Downtown Orlando events offer up a plethora of comedy clubs, minor league sporting events, and plays. If you love music, head to the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Amway Center or House of Blues to catch some live tunes at Orlando Concerts..

Think you can't play hockey this close to the equator? Think again and catch a heated game between local rivals Orlando Solar Bears and The Florida Everblades as they battle it out at Amway Center.