Free Things To Do in May Around Orlando & Central Florida (2026 Edition)

May in Central Florida is filled with sunshine, community events, family festivals, outdoor adventures, and plenty of ways to make memories without spending a fortune. Whether you’re looking for free things to do with kids, homeschool-friendly outings, Mother’s Day celebrations, or local weekend fun, this guide is packed with ideas for families all month long.

From farmers markets and splash pads to library events, craft days, movie nights, and special Mother’s Day experiences, there’s something happening nearly every week across Orlando, Longwood, Lake Mary, Winter Springs, Oviedo, and beyond.

Free Mother’s Day Events & Activities (May 4th – May 13th)

Looking for meaningful ways to celebrate Mom without overspending? These local Mother’s Day events are perfect for creating memories together.

Mother & Son Dance

Date: May 7

Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Longwood Community Building

Dress up, dance, and enjoy a special evening together with music, photos, and family fun.

Donut & Lemonade with Mom

Date: May 9

Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Location: Oviedo, FL

A sweet and simple morning activity featuring treats, conversation, and quality time with Mom.

Preschool Chef: Rainbow Parfait

Date: May 13

Time: 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Location: Orlando Public Library

Little chefs can create colorful parfaits while enjoying a fun hands-on experience with Mom.

Winter Springs Farmers Market

Date: Every Saturday in May

Location: Winter Springs Town Center

Walk the market, enjoy local vendors, listen to music, and grab fresh treats while spending time together outdoors.

Downtown Longwood Cruise Night

Date: May 9

Classic cars, family-friendly entertainment, and a fun evening atmosphere make this a great free outing.

Petco Mother’s Day Photo Event

Dates: May 2 & May 9

Participating Petco locations are offering Mother’s Day-themed pet photo opportunities for families and pet lovers.

Mommy & Me Spa Day Brunch

Date: May 9

Location: Lake Mary, FL

A relaxing bonding experience featuring light spa-inspired fun and brunch activities.

Mommy & Me Glamping

Date: May 9 (Overnight)

Location: Sorrento, FL

Enjoy an unforgettable outdoor-inspired experience complete with cozy setups and quality family time.

FREE Star Wars LEGO® Build at Barnes & Noble

Date: May 9

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Kids can build a LEGO® Star Wars-themed creation while enjoying a free in-store activity.

FREE Keepsake Box Workshop at The Home Depot

Date: May 9

Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Children can create a personalized keepsake box for Mom during this free hands-on workshop.

FREE Flower Bouquet Craft at JCPenney

Date: May 9

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

A creative floral craft activity perfect for younger children.

Mother’s Day Flower Stamped Card & Thumbprint Necklace at Michael’s

Date: May 9

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Craft a handmade Mother’s Day gift and card together.

Ongoing Free Things To Do Throughout May

Visit Local Splash Pads

Florida heat arrives early, making May the perfect time to explore local splash pads. Many parks throughout Central Florida offer free splash areas for kids.

Popular spots include:

• Lakefront Park Splash Pad (St. Cloud)

• Oviedo on the Park Splash Pad

• Cocoa Beach Westgate Splash Pad

• Downey Park Splash Playground

  
  

Tip: Bring towels, snacks, and water shoes for an easy budget-friendly day.

Explore Local Libraries

Libraries across Central Florida host free events all month long including:

• Storytime

• STEM activities

• Teen game nights

• Homeschool meetups

• Craft days

• Reading programs

  
  

Check your local library calendar weekly because many May events are seasonal.

Family Movie Nights in the Park

Many cities around Orlando host free outdoor movie nights during spring and early summer.

Bring:

• Lawn chairs

• Blankets

• Snacks

• Bug spray

Cities frequently hosting free movie nights include:

• Winter Garden

• Lake Nona

• Sanford

• Oviedo

• Casselberry

Free Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Take a Nature Walk

Central Florida has beautiful free nature trails perfect for families and homeschool groups.

Favorite spots include:

• Mead Botanical Garden

• Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve

• Wekiwa Springs walking trails

• Lake Lotus Park

• Black Bear Wilderness Area

Kids can turn the trip into a scavenger hunt by spotting:

• Birds

• Butterflies

• Flowers

• Turtles

• Different tree types

Visit a Farmers Market

Farmers markets are one of the easiest ways to enjoy a free morning outing.

Many include:

• Live music

• Free samples

• Kids activities

• Pet-friendly spaces

• Seasonal vendors

Top family-friendly markets:

• Winter Springs Farmers Market

• Winter Garden Farmers Market

• Lake Eola Farmers Market

• Sanford Marketplace

Free Educational Activities for Homeschool Families

Create a May Nature Journal

Encourage kids to document:

• Weather changes

• Flowers blooming

• Insects spotted

• Birds observed

• Outdoor sketches

  
  

This makes a great low-cost homeschool science activity.

Rainy Day Free Activities

Not every May day will be sunny. Keep these free indoor ideas ready:

• Visit the library

• Explore free museum days

• Create a family movie marathon

• Build blanket forts

• Host a board game day

• Have a bake-off challenge at home

• Start a backyard picnic indoors

Mama's Thoughts: Plan Your May Adventures with Know Mom Life

At Know Mom Life, we’re always sharing:

• Local family events

• Homeschool-friendly activities

• Seasonal bucket lists

• Budget-friendly fun

• DIY ideas for moms and kids

  
  

Bookmark this guide and check back throughout the month as new free events and activities are added.

Here’s to a May filled with sunshine, connection, creativity, and unforgettable moments with your family.