August is a great time to experience Orlando, with summer events, family-friendly festivals, exciting sports, and even a little early Halloween magic. Whether you're visiting with the kids, looking for something unique to do beyond the theme parks, or simply want to make the most of your summer getaway, there are plenty of events happening around the city this month.
From building with LEGO® bricks and meeting sharks to cheering on Orlando City SC and stepping into a fairy-filled garden, here are some of the top things to do in Orlando in August 2026.
LEGO® Festival at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
Calling all LEGO® fans! LEGO Festival returns to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in 2026, bringing an exciting celebration of creativity, music, and play to the park this summer.
Designed with kids and families in mind, LEGO Festival features three playful zones: Music, Creativity, and Chill Out. Throughout the festival, guests can enjoy brick-building activities, incredible LEGO models, live shows, and opportunities to meet superstar LEGO characters.
Best of all, you don't have to choose between the festival and the rest of the park. You can still experience LEGOLAND's rides, attractions, and shows for a full day of family fun.
Learn more about LEGO Festival here.
Red, White & BBQ at SeaWorld® Orlando
Photo courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando
Celebrate America's 250th with a delicious culinary adventure at SeaWorld Orlando during Red, White & BBQ. This all-new summer experience brings together barbecue flavors inspired by iconic regions across the country.
Foodies can dig into festival favorites such as BBQ Burnt End Sliders, BBQ Ribs with potato salad, and grilled BBQ chicken skewers served with cornbread. You can also find creative comfort-food options like grilled beef hotdogs topped with mac and cheese and brisket, along with plenty of refreshing beverages.
Whether you're a serious barbecue fan or simply looking for a tasty way to spend a summer day, Red, White & BBQ combines classic American flavors with the excitement of a day at SeaWorld.
See more Red, White & BBQ details at SeaWorld Orlando.
Summer of Sharks at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
Photo courtesy of SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium
If you're looking for a fin-tastic family activity, Summer of Sharks at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is the perfect choice. Running through August 9, this event gives families an opportunity to learn more about sharks and rays through educational activities and interactive experiences.
Follow a Shark Tracking Guide through the aquarium and stop at educational stations to discover fascinating facts about these incredible animals. On weekends, you may even spot Sharky making his way through the aquarium for a fun photo opportunity.
For an extra-special experience, families can add the Shark Dive Virtual Reality experience or the Shark Experience Behind the Scenes Tour for an additional fee. The behind-the-scenes tour highlights the aquarium's seven shark species and offers an exclusive look at shark care, feeding, and developing shark eggs.
Learn more about Summer of Sharks at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium.
Catch an Orlando City SC Leagues Cup Match
Photo courtsey of Orlando City
Soccer fans have plenty to cheer about this August as Orlando City SC takes on international competition during the 2026 Leagues Cup.
The tournament features 36 teams from MLS and LIGA MX, with Orlando City hosting three group-stage matches at Inter&Co Stadium. The Lions face C.F. Monterrey on August 5, Club León on August 8, and Atlético de San Luis on August 12.
The Leagues Cup runs from August 4 through September 6, making August a great month to catch some exciting international soccer right here in Orlando.
View the Orlando City SC Leagues Cup schedule here.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World
Why wait until October to celebrate Halloween? Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party returns to Magic Kingdom on select nights beginning August 7th and continuing through October 31st, 2026.
This separately ticketed event transforms Magic Kingdom into a festive Halloween celebration filled with spooky sights and seasonal entertainment. The party runs from 7 p.m. to midnight, while event guests can enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4 p.m.
It's a fun way to add a little Halloween magic to an August Orlando vacation—especially for families who can't get enough of Disney's seasonal celebrations.
Learn more about Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party here.
Fairy Night at Leu Gardens
Photo courtesy of Harry P. Leu Gardens
For a magical evening away from the theme parks, head to Harry P. Leu Gardens for Fairy Night. This whimsical event invites guests of all ages to step into an enchanting world filled with fairy doors, creative activities, and plenty of opportunities to let your imagination run wild.
Guests can meet real fairies, create whimsical art at fairy landings, plant a fairy garden, and embrace the experience by dressing in their favorite fairy-inspired attire.
And, of course, you'll want to come hungry. Food and refreshments are available for purchase from Foxtail Coffee, The Gnarly Cuban, and Kaleido Pops, making it easy to turn your visit into a full evening out.
Check out Fairy Night at Leu Gardens for more info.
Make the Most of August in Orlando
From theme park celebrations and family festivals to live sports and unique local events, Orlando offers plenty of ways to fill your August itinerary. Whether you're building LEGO creations at LEGOLAND, enjoying barbecue at SeaWorld, cheering on Orlando City, or experiencing the first hints of Halloween at Magic Kingdom, there's always something new to discover.
When you're ready to plan your summer escape, make the most of your Orlando vacation by staying here at Vista Cay with plenty of space to relax between adventures. With so many exciting things happening throughout the city, August is the perfect time to experience a little bit of everything Orlando has to offer.