GUIDE TO 30 GREAT THINGS TO DO NEAR ORLANDO THIS SEPTEMBER 2023

GUIDE TO 30 GREAT THINGS TO DO NEAR ORLANDO THIS SEPTEMBER 2023

 

JAZZ & BLUES CONCERT

Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

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Saturday, September 9, 2023

Get ready for  an amazing evening of jazz, blues and a little bit of everything in between from some of the most popular bands in Central Florida. Pack a picnic of your favorite foods and bring seating, alcohol is permitted.  

Concert Map

How it works: 3 bands in 3 locations in the 50-acre gardens. Bring chairs or blanket and sit wherever you like on any lawn area or find a nice spot in a gazebo. Stroll around to the bands and enjoy the gardens. Tickets are only available online, not sold at Leu Gardens. The gardens will open at 6:30 p.m. for guests with tickets. 

Presented By: Harry P. Leu Gardens

Dates: September 9, 2023

Price: $20-30

Time: 7 p.m.

 

 

ART’S THE SPARK!

Orlando Museum of Art

2416 North Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

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Through interactive tours of the Museum’s exhibitions, Art’s the Spark gives those living with memory impairment, or any other neurological impairment, such as early stage Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease, and their healthy caregivers a fun experience, an expressive outlet and an opportunity for adult discussions. The program strives to provide a rich and satisfying experience for all participants. FREE, pre-registration is required. Please call 407.896.4231 ext. 262 or email education@omart.org to register.

Dates: 9/2/2023, 10/7/2023

Price: Free

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

 

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: QUEEN ‘A NIGHT AT THE OPERA’

Hard Rock Cafe & Live Orlando

6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

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Classic Albums Live: Queen’s ‘A Night at the Opera’ comes to Hard Rock Live Orlando.

Presented By: Hard Rock Cafe & Live Orlando

Dates: September 2, 2023

Price: $21 – $36

Time: 8 – 10 p.m.

 

MAITLAND STAGE BAND

Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts

1905 Kentucky Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

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The Maitland Stage Band is supported by PAM (Performing Arts Matter). This 16-piece big band performs modern arrangements, as well as hits from the legends of the big band era. They have played all over Central Florida under direction of trumpeter Rick Ingoglia.

Dates: September 2, 2023

Price: $25

Time: 8 – 10 p.m.

 

WILD FLORIDA 5K

Lake Baldwin Park 4990 New Broad St, Orlando, FL 32814

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RUN WILD FOR FLORIDA WITH CONSERVATION FLORIDA!

This Summer, you’re invited to RUN WILD with Conservation Florida! Join us on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at our annual Wild Florida 5k at Lake Baldwin Park in Orlando, Florida! The run supports our mission to save natural and agricultural landscapes for future generations. Participants will receive a branded 5k t-shirt, medal, and lots of good vibes knowing they are saving land and creating a healthier future for Florida! After the 5k, join Team Conservation Florida for light refreshments and conservation conversations.

Dates: September 2, 2023

Price: $45

Time: 8 a.m.

 

CAMPING WORLD KICKOFF: FLORIDA STATE VS. LSU

1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805

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The Florida State Seminoles and LSU Tigers will face off in Orlando to open their 2023 seasons. The 2023 game is the fourth in a multi-year agreement between Florida Citrus Sports and ESPN Events, a division of ESPN, to host a major neutral-site college football game in Camping World Stadium during the opening weekend of the college football season.

Dates: September 3, 2023

Price: Varies

Time: 7 p.m.

 

JAZZPRO SERIES PRESENTS: JOHN REDFIELD TRIO

Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts

1905 Kentucky Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

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John Redfield is an innovative, virtuosic pianist. His rapid-fire playing technique is dazzling, but he also plays melodically and with sensitivity. In John’s playing you can hear the influences of masters like Oscar Peterson and Wynton Kelly, and also stride piano legends like Art Tatum. John will be joined by Doug Mathews on bass and Walt Hubbard on drums for a concert featuring jazz standards and John’s original compositions.

Dates: September 6, 2023

Price: $20

Time: 8 – 10 p.m.

 

THE COMEDY OF ERRORS

Orlando Shakes

812 East Rollins Street, Orlando, FL 32803

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Set during the revelries of Mardi Gras and featuring New Orleans Jazz, Zydeco and Delta Blues music, Shakespeare’s non-stop hilarious farce of love, mistaken identity, and two sets of twins separated as babies – gets swept up in the carnival celebrations. Bring your Mardi Gras beads and let the good times roll!

Presented By: Orlando Shakes

Dates: September 6, 2023 – October 1, 2023

Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday

Price: Varies

Time: Varies by Date

 

 

 

CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT

The Abbey

100 S Eola Dr, Orlando, FL 32801

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Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Orlando. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Taylor Swift at The Abbey under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Dates: 9/7/2023, 11/30/2023

Price: $35 – $55

Time: 6:30 p.m. & 9 p.m.

 

BLUE BAMBOO JAZZ FESTIVAL 2023 KICKOFF PARTY

1905 Kentucky Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

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Join us for the Blue Bamboo Jazz Festival 2023! Four concert events September 14th-17th. This kickoff concert will feature Chris Cortez and Friends in the first set, and the Alain Bradette Quartet in the second set. Admission is free for this event, but reservations are strongly suggested. To purchase tickets for all 4 events at a 20% discount, please call Melody Cortez at 407-636-9951.

The Blue Bamboo Jazz Festival 2023 is sponsored in part by United Arts of Central Florida and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Dates: September 14, 2023

Price: Free

Time: 8 – 10 p.m.

 

THE INTERNATIONAL FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL 2023

Festival Park

2911 E Robinson St, Orlando, FL 32803

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The International Food and Drink Festival 2023 at Downtown Orlando is back! Enjoy the best restaurants from Central Florida, exotic drinks, food eating contests, giveaways and more!

Dates: Sunday, September 17, 2023

Price: Free

Time: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

21ST ANNUAL GLOBAL PEACE FILM FESTIVAL

400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

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Continuing its mission to use creative media as a catalyst to inspire and educate people to initiate positive change in their local communities and worldwide, the Global Peace Film Festival (GPFF) celebrates its 21st anniversary this year.

The Festival’s opening night film to be screened at Enzian Theater on Tuesday, September 19 at 6 p.m. is The League, a film that celebrates the dynamic journey of Negro League baseball’s triumphs and challenges through the first half of the twentieth century. A complete list of films can be found online at peacefilmfest.org.

Dates: September 19, 2023 – September 23, 2023

Recurrence: Recurring daily

Price: Varies

Time: Varies

 

COOKING WITH AMY: 30 MINUTE ITALIAN MEALS

Maitland Public Library,501 Maitland Avenue South, Maitland, FL 32751

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Join Amy as she demonstrates how to make some quick and easy Italian meals. Space is limited for this class and registration is required. Ages 14 and up. RSVP on our website beginning September 1st.

Dates: September 19, 2023

Price: Free

Time: 7 – 8:30 p.m.

 

RUTHLESS!

The Winter Park Playhouse, 711 North Orange Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

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Ruthless! September 22 – October 15, 2023

Previews: Sep. 21 at 7:30pm & Sep. 22 at 2:00pm

This outrageous hit musical comedy garnered rave reviews during its long Off-Broadway run.  Meet Judy, a naive 1950s housewife, and her adorable but sociopath 8-year-old daughter Tina.  Encouraged by her manager, Sylvia, Tina will do ANYTHING to get the lead role in her school play “including murdering the leading lady!”  This fun spoof has its twists, turns and killer laughs!  “A wonderfully smart and funny send-up of every Broadway brat… loaded with campy with and charm.” –Variety.  Book & Lyrics by Joel Paley / Music by Marvin Laird

Presented By: The Winter Park Playhouse

Dates: 9/21/2023, 9/22/2023, 9/23/2023, 9/28/2023, 9/29/2023, 9/30/2023, 10/1/2023

Price: $20 – $46

Time: Varies by Date

 

 

ORLANDO SALSA FESTIVAL

Amway Center, 400 W Church St #200, Orlando, FL 32801

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The Orlando Salsa Festival is coming to Amway Center on September 22, featuring the legendary Willie Colón and El Gran Combo! Prepare to dance the night away to the electrifying rhythms of salsa and experience a once-in-a-lifetime concert event.

Dates: September 22, 2023

Price: Varies

Time: 8 p.m.

 

 

TERRY MYERS QUINTET FEATURING JAIMIE ROBERTS

Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts

1905 Kentucky Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

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Terry Myers is pleased to present the talented and dynamic vocalist Jaimie Roberts! This afternoon will feature jazz standards alongside a selection of Jaimie’s popular material, cabaret numbers, and fresh new songs and surprises! Jaime is a multi-faceted vocalist and comedienne, who has worked professionally in the Central Florida area for many years. Her repertoire is extensive, and performs across all genres from Big Band jazz, comedy and parody songs, Country, Broadway, and more. If you are not already a fan, prepare to fall in love with Jaimie’s larger-than-life stage presence!

The Terry Myers Quintet is: Terry Myers – saxophone, Jaime Roberts – vocals, Randy Morris – piano, Jay Mueller – bass, and Paul Parker – drums.

Terry has had a storied career in Central Florida, including being a band leader at Walt Disney World’s Epcot, the band leader at Rosie O’Grady’s Good Time Jazz Emporium, and as an original member of Bill Allred’s Classic Jazz Band. Terry is the director of the famed Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and has appeared at many jazz festivals across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

Dates: September 24, 2023

Price: $20 – $35

Time: 3 – 5 p.m.

 

 

HAPPY FRIGHTS

Harry P. Leu Gardens 1920 North Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

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Gather the entire family for a fun, family-friendly Halloween adventure throughout Orlando’s Leu Gardens featuring exciting immersive worlds, live characters, food and trick-or-treating.

Presented By: Creative City Project

Dates: Begins Sept. 29, 2023

 

 

LAKE NONA ORLANDO VEGFEST

USTA National Campus 10000 USTA Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827

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This completely vegan festival will have over 60 vegan vendors including local businesses and special guests from out of town. You can expect live music, speakers, dance classes, yoga classes and other entertainment all free. This is a family and pet friendly event where all are welcome.

Dates: September 30, 2023

Price: Free

Time: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

 

 

OKTOBERFEST

Lake Nona, 6900 Tavistock Lakes Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827

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Oktoberfest is returning on Saturday, September 30 at Lake Nona Town Center with live music, German food from Park Pizza, German themed entertainment, photo-ops, games, and our annual Stein Hoisting competition. This event is free and open to the public, no ticket needed!

Presented By: Lake Nona

Dates: September 30, 2023

Price: Free

Time: 4 – 10 p.m.

 

 

RICKY SYLVIA & THE BUZZCATZ: 70S GOLD

Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts

1905 Kentucky Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

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Dates: September 30, 2023

Price: $20 – $35

Time: 8 – 10 p.m.

 

WISDOM OF WORDS: TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES OF WRITING

Orlando Museum of Art

2416 North Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

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When you see a painting, what do you feel? When you look at a photograph, what memories surface? Tap into your creativity with the use of paintings, photographs, and objects as award-winning writer Elaine Person prompts you to write original stories, poems, and essays. Learn writing tools and techniques. Different genres of writing and reflection will be discussed.

Dates: September 30, 2023

Price: Members $27, Non-members $30

Time: 1 – 3 p.m.

 

 

 

ART GALLERIES NEAR ORLANDO WINTER PARK IN CENTRAL FLORIDA…VISIT THESE 3

water fountain winter park flART GALLERIES NEAR ORLANDO WINTER PARK IN CENTRAL FLORIDA…VISIT THESE THREE.

Florida is known for its scenic beauty, from its multitude of lakes and white-sand beaches to the wildlife-rich everglades and tropical paradise of the Keys. So it’s no wonder that there’s a prolific artist community ready to capture this beauty, and as many tourists intent on taking pieces of it home to enjoy all year long. Many art galleries in the Central Florida area showcase our local artists. On your next stay at Thurston House Bed & Breakfast near Orlando, visit these three art galleries near Orlando Winter Park FL to check out their collected beauties.

 

THE GALLERY 32789, 515 N. PARK AVE, STE 114, WINTER PARK, FL 32789

The Gallery 32789 is set in downtown Winter Park near the Morse Museum in Brandywine Square, steps from Central Park and its fine dining, upscale shops, and world-renowned museums. Representing professional artists who work in oil, acrylic and mixed-media paintings, sculpture, jewelry, clay and photography, The Gallery 32789 hosts monthly by-invitation-only art events.

 

scene storefronts along park avenue winter parkPARK AVENUE CONTEMPORARY ART, 348 S. PARK AVE, WINTER PARK, FL 32789

After finding a cozy lunch spot along the avenue, be sure to stop in at Park Avenue Contemporary Art, featuring contemporary artwork from over 25 Florida and national artists. Founded by Denise Autorino, an avid 20-year art collector, the gallery opened at the Park Plaza Hotel in 2020. Its new location on Park Avenue offers generous space for larger paintings, sculptures, artist talks, events and more.

 

STELTENKAMP FINE ART, 126 S. PARK AVE, WINTER PARK, FL 32789

Another art gallery near Orlando Winter Park caters to lovers of fine art. Steltenkamp Fine Art offers a private gallery in an historic second floor setting overlooking downtown Winter Park. Bill and MaryAnn invite you to appreciate art in a new way in a sophisticated, but casual venue. They feature unique pieces from a variety of genres and countries. Whether you are a novice or seasoned collector, you will find something of interest. Ask the Steltenkamps about upcoming art lectures and private artist exhibitions when you visit.

 

Spend the day soaking up art galleries near Orlando Winter Park FL. then head back to your comfy room at Thurston House. You might even have time for a nap in the hammock on the sleeping porch before venturing out to a fabulous dinner. Ah…life is good!

 

 

Farmers’ Markets Near Orlando: Three You Must Visit

FARMERS’ MARKETS NEAR ORLANDO: 3 YOU MUST VISITbrown bag with purchase at market

With a growing number of Floridians interested in locally-sourced ingredients and organically grown produce, Central Florida’s farm market scene is especially vibrant. With Florida’s temperate climate, guests of Thurston House, our Orlando area bed and breakfast, can visit several local farmers’ markets year round. On any given weekend, you could find 20 markets within a half-hour drive of the inn.  Here’s three you must explore that are just a few quick minutes away.

Florida farmers’ markets are a great showcase of local products because many markets stipulate that vendors grow, make, or process the ingredients in the products they sell. This means the honey, fruit, bread, herbs, or jam you buy is likely from Florida. And most are as fresh as a few days old. Also, farm stands are usually represented by the farmer or the farm workers, meaning you can ask questions firsthand about how the food was grown or made.

chicken pot pies being sold at market

WINTER PARK SATURDAY FARMERS’ MARKET

In particular, the Winter Park Saturday Farmers’ Market is the number one produce and plant market in Central Florida. Every Saturday morning from, over 50 vendors gather to sell their fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more. Mason, of Winter Park Urban Farms, is one of our favorite farmers, cultivating gardens in back yards around town and offering seasonal produce harvested just the day before market. Set up in the Central Park West Meadow, across from the old train depot, the Winter Park Saturday Farmers’ Market is a popular gathering place for locals, and their dogs, on the weekends.

MAITLAND FARMERS’ MARKET

On Sunday mornings, the Maitland Farmers’ Market is a fun place to spend a few hours. Located in downtown Maitland on Independence Lane, nearly 25 vendors are excited to greet you. Shop fresh produce and fruit, plants and flowers, crafts, food, and more. Get a croissant or made-to-order crepe from Chez Vincent Bakery before stepping across to Blessed Bean Coffee for a fresh cup of java. There’s live music provided courtesy of Performing Arts Matters and kids always enjoy inflatable slides and games in the park.

ORLANDO LAKE EOLA MARKET

The proximity of our Central Florida B&B to Orlando makes it an easy 10-minute drive south to another local market on Sundays. The Orlando Farmers’ Market, in its 35th year, is held at Lake Eola Park near Downtown Orlando, every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. More than a traditional farmers’ market, you will also find crafts, gifts, wine and jewelry in addition to fresh produce and baked goods. Always family friendly, take the kids and dogs for a great afternoon on the banks of Lake Eola.

Here’s a list of other Central Florida markets to explore if time permits: “Top 10 Farmer’s Markets in Central Florida”   You’re sure to find a tasty snack or the perfect souvenir at one of these Orlando-area Farmers’ Markets when you stay at Thurston House Bed & Breakfast near Orlando.

City Orlando – Hotspot July 4th!

City Orlando Hotspot July 4th
Lake Eola Park,
Downtown Orlando
195 N Rosalind Avenue
4 – 10 P.M.
Fireworks begin at 9:10 P.M.
Featuring:

  • Activities for the kids
  • Entertainment on two stages:
    • Amphitheater:
      • 98.9 WMMO Acoustic Cafe from 4-6 p.m.
      • Orlando Concert Band beginning at 8 p.m.
    • K92.3 stage at the corner of Robinson Street and Eola Drive:
      • Local artists all from 4-7 p.m.
      • 7 p.m. National Recording Artist Joel Crouse
  • 2 beer and wine gardens

Our North Orlando Thurston House Bed & Breakfast accommodation is a perfect place to stay, only 5 miles from the downtown festivities! Make a long weekend of it, stay more than one night, and the innkeeper will give you a fantastic gift of two hand made artisian mugs from Deneen Pottery…a value of $36!

New Amway Center Opens near Maitland, Fl!

“This is unlike anything Orlando has ever seen.
 It will be unlike any arena ever built. From its signature spire and modern architecture to its public spaces and comfortable amenities, the Amway Center will be both a welcoming addition to the surrounding neighborhood and an iconic destination to Central Florida and beyond. The Amway Center features a modern mix of metal and glass exterior materials and the spire serves as a beacon amid Orlando’s vibrant downtown”.

Thurston House and our location just 5 miles from the Amway Center makes us the perfect accommodation when coming into town for a basketball game or a concert. The Amway Center will feature quite a variety of events, everything from ice shows, bull riding, Magic basketball, the Eagles concert, etc.  Check the events listings, buy your tickets then book online for your perfect overnight stay at Thurston House Bed & Breakfast in North Orlando/Maitland.

North Orlando tangerine picking!

Stay at Thurston House and take home some wonderful and fresh picked tangerines. Thurston House is set amid 8 acres of land, only a small portion of the 160 acres that Mr. Thurston owned in the late 1800’s. Many of his grove trees still exist, and the tangerines are especially fruitful this time of year! I always get a kick out of watching the squirrels delicately eating a tangerine….amazing! Anyway, book your room, ask for a bag, pick some tangerines, and take home a very special gift from Thurston House!

tangerines

Orlando Botanical Garden

We spent a wonderful couple hours at Leu Gardens in Orlando this morning, just 15 minutes from Thurston House in Maitland. It is 52 acres of fabulous gardens and even an historic home to tour. They have over 2,000 camellia bushes, many that are out in full bloom right now.

red & white camellia

The rose garden is also magnificiant right now! It is a great place to stroll around, take some pictures or even get married! There had been a wedding there this morning before we got there. Just a perfect day for it!

Thurston House Times – the 7th “thing”

The 7th of 125 things about Thurston House, us and the City of Maitland…all in honor of our 125th anniversary next July of the founding of Maitland and the completion of  Thurston House.

Did you realize that Thurston House is only 5 short miles from downtown Orlando, the City Beautiful? Less than ten minutes drive takes you to the heart of the city, Lake Eola. Just park, stroll & enjoy it all. 

The ampitheater at Lake Eola Park, downtown Orlando.

The ampitheater at Lake Eola Park, downtown Orlando.

Plan ahead – Thurston House, Bed & Breakfast!

Coming up later this year are some wonderful events at Leu Gardens. August 7th brings you this-

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S Friday, August 7…Gardens open at 6:00 pm        Movie time dusk

Enjoy a romantic movie in a beautiful gardens setting.  Patrons may bring a blanket or chairs and dinner picnic basket.  Garden Admission is $7.00 plus tax adult and $2.00 plus tax child; Garden Members receive free admission on all Date Nights.  Admission is collected at the door.  Sponsored by Women in Film & Television Florida. These Leu Garden night events are always a wonderful and romantic way to while away the night. Pack a wonderful picnic, grab a bottle of wine and off you go…just a few minutes from Thurston House!

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's