by | September 30, 2025
What To Do This October in Florida
Cycle around Mount Dora, catch live shows from country music's biggest stars in Tampa, get up close and personal with the biggest bats in the world in Gainesville and more this October in Florida.
North
Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo
Bonifay
Oct. 2–4
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill rodeo—it’s a glamping go-round. Get an RV set up on the campgrounds and indulge in professional bull riding, pancake breakfasts and more.
T-Pain’s Tallahassee Block Party
Tallahassee
Oct. 17
The Capital City is coming alive for T-Pain’s homecoming with a block-wide celebration on T-Pain Lane. Expect games, karaoke, food, music and a community vibe honoring the city that shaped one of Florida’s modern musical icons.
Luke Combs Bootleggers Bonfire
Miramar Beach
Oct. 23—Oct. 25
Who said you can’t two-step in the Sunshine State? The Seascape Resort is hosting a weekend of country music—three nights of live shows, two special sets by Luke Combs, a private beachfront “cove” with comfy seating for every guest and even some “Luke-I-Oke” karaoke!
Florida Bat Festival
Gainesville
Oct. 25
The Lubee Bat Conservancy celebrates 21 years of conservation and education with a festival spotlighting one of Florida’s quirkiest—and cutest—residents. Get swept up in interactive exhibits, hands-on activities and up-close encounters with the the largest bat species in the world just in time for spooky season.
Foo Foo Festival
Pensacola
Oct. 30–Nov. 10
Wander through a corridor of blue trees lining historic downtown, witness murals take shape and even join a parade drum line during this weekend of immersive arts and culture.
62nd Annual Florida Seafood Festival
Pensacola
Oct. 30–Nov. 10
Set under the shade of aged oaks overlooking the mouth of the Apalachicola River, this fest invites you to shuck oysters for sport and savor delicacies caught from local waters.
Central
Tampa Pig Jig
Tampa
Oct. 18
Pig out for a purpose at an all-day outdoor festival in Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, where plates of barbecue are piled high and a lineup of nationally adored country and rock artists includes Megan Moroney, Matt Nathanson, Jamestown Revival, Midland and George Pippen. Before heading to the stage, take a trip down Food Row and fill up on everything from loaded nachos to ’cue classics. Then crack open a beer and cheer on the amateur pitmasters as they compete in a barbecue showdown, smoking flavorful brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs and more. Best of all, know that every sip and bite taken supports NephCure, a nonprofit dedicated to improving research and treatment for the rare kidney conditions Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis and Nephrotic Syndrome.
Oktoberfest Tampa
Tampa
Oct. 10–12
Break out the lederhosen and join the celebration as thousands gather at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park to enjoy brats, brews, live music and festive games.
51st Annual Cycle Mount Dora
Mount Dora
Oct. 11–12
Gear up for a picturesque ride where profits help fund swim lessons for kids. Cyclists can pick from seven paths, pedaling anywhere from 10 to 70 miles.
Orlando Film Festival
Orlando
Oct. 31—Nov. 7
Roll out the red carpet! Catch the premiering showcase of 300+ films from around the world, exclusive industry panels, hands-on workshops and screen-worthy parties. It’s movie magic for everyone—whether you’re a film enthusiast or just there for the popcorn.
South
Oktoberfest of The Palm Beaches
Lake Worth Beach
Oct. 10–12 and Oct. 17–19
Dust off your dirndl or Bavarian best at this two-weekend party with plenty of polka music and Old World charm. Binge on bratwurst, imported steins and carnival rides.
REEF Fest
Key Largo
Oct. 16–19
Conch, coral and crabs, oh my! Chart the Florida reefs with a four-day festival, featuring free marine life seminars led by scientists and underwater photographers—not to mention guest socials and exciting excursions like diving, snorkeling and kayaking.
Redland International Orchid Festival
Redland
Oct. 17–19
Revel in three days of pure orchid mania at idyllic Fruit and Spice Park, where world-renowned growers showcase exotic blooms alongside classes and competitions.
redlandorchidfestival.com
Peck: Miami in Motion
Miami
Oct. 17–Nov. 2
The Miami City Ballet opens its season with a high-octane program celebrating the magnetic style of Tony Award-winning choreographer Justin Peck. Ballet meets pop, pattern and pulse in this showcase of three ballets: “Year of the Rabbit,” “Chutes and Ladders” and “Heatscape.”
