August is an electrifying month on International Drive, brimming with events and activities that cater to all tastes and interests. Whether you’re a foodie eager to indulge in culinary delights, a family looking for fun experiences, or a thrill-seeker ready for spooky Halloween festivities, I-Drive has something special in store for you. From the Florida Wedding Expo and Todovos Tequila Pairing to the Orlando Boat Show and early Halloween events at Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, this month is packed with unforgettable experiences. Join us as we explore the exciting events happening on International Drive this August!
Conventions and Expos
Florida Wedding Expo
The Florida Wedding Expo, taking place on August 4 at the Orange County Convention Center, is a must-attend event for brides-to-be and wedding planners. This comprehensive expo features an array of vendors, from photographers and florists to caterers and wedding planners, all ready to help make your dream wedding a reality. Attendees can enjoy fashion shows, sample delicious wedding cakes, and enter exciting giveaways. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning or putting the final touches on your special day, the Florida Wedding Expo offers inspiration and resources to create a truly unforgettable wedding.
Kids and Family Expo
Mark your calendars for the Kids and Family Expo, happening on August 17 and 18 at the Orange County Convention Center! This fun-filled event is perfect for families, offering interactive exhibits, live performances, and engaging activities for children of all ages. With tickets priced at just $10, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a weekend of educational and entertaining experiences. Spend the day discovering over 200 exhibitors with schools, products, services, entertainment, and more. While you’re busy discovering all that’s possible for your family, your kids can interact with animals, meet their favorite characters, ride a pony, watch a live show, learn to use a lightsaber, play games, and so much more! From hands-on crafts to exciting games and informative booths, the Kids and Family Expo provides a fantastic opportunity for families to bond and make lasting memories.
Orlando Boat Show
Set sail for the Orlando Boat Show, happening from August 23 to 25 at the Orange County Convention Center! With tickets at just $10 and free entry for kids under 12, it’s a perfect outing for the whole family. Discover a stunning array of boats, from luxurious yachts to sporty fishing vessels, and explore the latest in marine technology and accessories. Enjoy engaging presentations, interactive demos, and meet industry experts ready to answer all your boating questions. With special show deals and fun activities for kids, the Orlando Boat Show is the ultimate event for boating enthusiasts and families alike.
Central Florida Face-Off
Get ready for the Central Florida Face-Off, a one-day celebration of all things gaming at Avanti Palms Resort and Conference Center on August 31! For just $15, immerse yourself in a world of gaming excitement, and community as gamers from around the world come together to face-off. This event is a daring experiment in combining the communities of fighting games and trading card games, showing off the power of competition to bring people together. Whether you are an avid competitor in fighting games, a cunning strategist in card games, or simply looking to experience the action and amenities as a spectator, Central Florida Face-Off is an event you can’t miss.
Tie-Dye and Dine at JoJo’s ShakeBAR
Dive into a colorful experience at JoJo’s Shake Bar with the Tie-Dye & Dine event, running on select days from August 1 to August 9. For just $35 per person, enjoy a fun-filled day that includes a choice of entrée, a Biggie Shake, and all the supplies you need to create your own vibrant tie-dye bandana. It’s a perfect blend of great food and creative fun, making it an ideal outing for friends and families alike. Make your reservations, today!
Back 2 School Bash at WonderWorks Orlando
Celebrate the start of the school year with WonderWorks’ Back 2 School Ticket offer for Florida residents, available August 2 to 11, for just $22! This special deal allows you to dive into a world of fun and learning with over 100 interactive exhibits. Enjoy exciting activities like laser tag, a glow-in-the-dark ropes course, and a chance to lie on a bed of nails. Plus, explore STEM-focused exhibits that make learning a blast. It’s the perfect way to kick off the new school year with an unforgettable adventure for the whole family at WonderWorks!
TodoVos Tequila Pairing at Hilton Orlando
Prepare for a culinary journey where tradition meets innovation, set against the backdrop of vibrant Mexican décor, at the TodoVos Tequila Pairing event on August 8. This tequila pairing event features exquisite tequilas from Codigo, and a curated menu from restaurant Chef Kelvin. Each course is thoughtfully paired with a premium Codigo tequila, meticulously selected to bring out the best in both the food and the spirit. Enjoy each course neat, or in a custom cocktail of your choice. As you savor each bite and sip, a knowledgeable tequila ambassadors will guide you through the intricate tasting notes, sharing the rich history and craftsmanship behind Codigo’s esteemed tequilas. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or a curious newcomer, this event promises an unforgettable experience that will leave your taste buds dancing and your spirits lifted.
Emo Night at Howl at the Moon
Emo Night on Friday, August 9 is the perfect chance to relive the angst and energy of your favorite emo hits! Dive into a night of nostalgia with live performances of classic emo anthems, themed drinks, and a high-energy atmosphere. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun night out, Emo Night promises an unforgettable evening of music, memories, and mingling with fellow emo enthusiasts. Don’t miss this chance to embrace your inner emo and party the night away!
Dueling Pianos at Ole Red
Get ready for a high-energy night of music at Ole Red on August 15 with their thrilling Dueling Pianos event! Enjoy a dynamic showdown as talented pianists go head-to-head, playing your favorite songs and taking requests from the audience. With lively performances and interactive fun, this event promises a memorable evening filled with entertainment, sing-alongs, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a great night out, Dueling Pianos at Ole Red is the place to be!
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining
Dive into a culinary adventure with Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining, running from August 16 to September 30. This annual event transforms Orlando into a food lover’s haven, featuring a diverse selection of restaurants offering prix-fixe menus priced at $40 to $60 per person. Each menu includes a delectable three-course meal, giving you the opportunity to experience the best of Orlando’s dining scene at exceptional value. This year 31 restaurants from the International Drive Area will be participating in this gastronomic event. Among the I-Drive participating restaurants is Café Tu Tu Tango, a culinary experience renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and creative tapas. Taverna Opa, which promises a lively Greek dining experience with its flavorful dishes and spirited ambiance. Mia’s Italian Kitchen, where traditional recipes meet a warm, inviting setting, and The Hampton Social with its chic décor and upscale American cuisine. For the complete list of International Drive restaurants and to book your reservations, see here.
Halloween Events
Get a head start on the Halloween thrills with events at Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando! Beginning August 30, Universal Orlando kicks off its Halloween Horror Nights, featuring spine-chilling haunted houses, terrifying scare zones, and live shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat. At SeaWorld Orlando, the Halloween Spooktacular, beginning August 31, transforms the park into a family-friendly Halloween wonderland with festive decorations, interactive trick-or-treating, and delightful shows. Both parks offer an exciting preview of the Halloween season, ensuring that your August is filled with spooky fun and unforgettable scares!
August on International Drive is brimming with exciting events and activities for everyone to enjoy. From the vibrant Florida Wedding Expo and culinary delights of Magical Dining to thrilling gaming at the Central Florida Face-Off and early Halloween festivities at Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, International Drive offers something special for every interest and age group. So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience a month full of fun, food, and unforgettable moments on I-Drive!