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Despite its vibrant downtown area and the nightlife corridor in the historic Church Street District, the city of Orlando has always played second fiddle to the family-friendly activities at its edges.
But with a thriving arts scene and an influx of the young and talented, Orlando is slowly beginning to emerge as one of the state's creative centers. There's an undeniable buzz here. In addition to the big guys (SeaWorld and Universal Studios Orlando), this town is turning to cultural endeavors that might be more at home in a place like Austin or Portland, Ore.: a fringe theater scene, an independent film festival, photography showcases, art galleries, and an ever-expanding lineup of innovative food trucks. Orlando's not just for kids anymore.
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Fringe festivals got their start in Edinburgh in 1947 as a way to celebrate the avant-garde in theater. Held in the appropriately Scottish-sounding Loch Haven Park for 13 days each May, the Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival is the oldest of its kind in the country. Best of all: 100% of ticket sales go back to the artists.
The Summer Concert Series at Universal Studios Orlando boasts a lineup that appeals to fans of almost any genre: Last year's performers included Grammy-winning rapper Lupe Fiasco, country singer Josh Turner, soul legend Al Green, and bearded rockers ZZ Top.
Think of it as a 21st-century spin on the autumn harvest festival: The annual Central Florida Veg Fest, held each October in Orlando Festival Park, is a celebration of healthy living, with a lineup that includes yoga classes, musical performances, and a speaker series. But the main course is definitely the delicious and inventive vegetarian fare, such as macaroni and vegan cheese, garbanzo tacos, quinoa bowls, and jerk seitan.
With the help of area marching bands, Santa ushers in the holiday season during the Orlando Christmas Parade around Lake Eola and Thornton Park, on the first Sunday in December. The downtown park is transformed into a twinkly winterscape with thousands of white LED lights.