Orlando’s Taste of Autumn

We’re fast approaching our favourite time of the year in Orlando, and there’s a LOT to look forward to in the next few months as Central Florida transitions from its full summer climate to something a bit more mellow and enjoyable.

Yes, we’re talking about a season that is hard to define but is still readily identifiable as a change of pace – and temperature! – in the overall scheme of things. It’s a subtle shift, like the difference between Coke and Diet Coke, and it might not be immediately obvious to new arrivals, but it’s highly welcome all the same.

More to the point, it brings with it something of a sea-change in our tastebuds as Orlando unveils its autumn colours – or Fall colors, if you’re a local – in a series of seasonal events and festivals aimed at getting people out and about to a greater degree than the heat of summer allows.

A feast for the senses

In simple terms, Fall in Orlando is a feast for the senses – and your appetite. In general, this is the time of year when Starbucks and Co all run out their many and varied pumpkin spice recipes which are typical of autumn (our top tip for this year – try the Dutch Bros. Caramel Pumpkin Brulee, a real spiced delight!), while chain restaurant Panera brings in a range of seasonal soups that include the delicious Autumn Squash Soup. Apple cider doughnuts are another typical taste of Fall, and you should find them in most supermarkets, as well as Southern Hill Farms in Clermont.

Then, whether you’re craving global flavours, plant-based bites or gourmet indulgence, there is a magnificent array of upcoming foodie favourites, all of which offer the perfect excuse for a flavourful holiday. It all starts with our theme parks, but it continues with the other attractions and, especially, the local neighbourhoods, where visitors are welcome and the city’s diversity is on full display. So, if you’re heading this way any time in the next couple of months, here’s what to look out for:

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

Now through November 22, this Walt Disney World icon explores tastes from six continents, offers nightly concerts and adds fun foodie scavenger hunts – all included with park admission – for an absolute guaranteed workout for your tastebuds. We especially like the new Guardians of the Galaxy-themed Gyozas food market, with delectable dumplings served either French Onion Soup, Buffalo Chicken or Street Corn style, as well as a wonderful Pineapple Colada. Cheers!

Vegan Block Party at Lake Eola Park

For something really different, dive into plant-based delights from more than 60 vendors, plus live music, art and giveaways in downtown Orlando’s Thornton Park District on October 11 (2-8pm). This is the second event of its kind this year and, while it is very much aimed at locals, our visitors are welcome, too. And, as it’s a neighbourhood event, expect to see a lot of families with their dogs!

Taste of Space: Fall Bites! at Kennedy Space Center

Back for its fifth year at the KSC, here’s a chance to enjoy out-of-this-world flavours and mingle with astronauts just an hour east of Orlando. From October 3 to November 9, this periodic taste-fest offers the likes of Lentil Chili with Tortilla Chips and Apple Blossom with Caramel Sauce at the Orbit Café and Pork Schnitzel Sandwich with Slaw and Chocolate Bundt Cake with Cranberry Chutney at the Moon Rock Café (at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, on the main bus tour). Visiting the KSC is always high on our list of things to do, but it is even better at this time of year.

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

Here’s an annual event that has quickly become a big-time favourite at the heart of Walt Disney World (not to be confused with the Food & Wine Festival at EPCOT, though). For the weekend of November 14-15, this superb twin resort in the Boardwalk area adjacent to the EPCOT park plays host to a chance to indulge in unlimited food tastings provided by the resort’s array of fine dining restaurants, along with wine pairings and live entertainment in a stunning al fresco setting. A separately ticketed event (from 5-9pm each day), it features true gourmet food offerings expertly paired with wines from as far afield as Argentina and Australia. There is also the new Beer Garden for various samples, plus bar snacks, as well as music from rock band The Rundown, Latin American pop specialists Stella Beat and seven-piece party band Live Effect.

FusionFest

Join in an annual multicultural celebration on the Seneff Arts Plaza in front of the Dr. Phillips Center For the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando on the weekend of November 29-30 (10am-8pm on the Saturday, noon to 6pm on Sunday). With free admission, this vibrant autumn occasion is marked by global dishes, live arts, fashion heritage and general family fun, including arts and crafts, local book authors, cultural displays and the signature Family Village. Live entertainment is provided by music and dance performances, as well as the Giant Puppet Friends for a unique photo opportunity!

It all adds up to a wonderful mix of tastes and live entertainment, festivals and markets. And underlines Orlando’s multi-faceted appeal for all-comers. It simply never gets old.

What’s your favourite time of the year in Orlando, and why?