Florida is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise and fortunately, there are plenty of ways to celebrate that passion. Across the state, you’ll find festivals dedicated to all kinds of outdoor recreation. From fishing and hiking to water sports and wildlife, come celebrate your passions at these nine best outdoor festivals and events in Florida.
One of Florida’s most high profile festivals is dedicated to all things cycling. Spanning a 44 year history, this epic event has 16 planned routes to choose from, offering an ideal plan for riders of all ages and skill levels. But it’s not all hard work—there’s also music, cash bar, and plenty of local cuisine to go around. A single price grants you entry to the festival, several meals, a jersey, and other goodies. Sponsored by Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce , Lake County Agency for Economic Prosperity, this event is sure to be an excellent time.
Florida’s biggest boat show is one of the most epic celebrations outside of Spring Break. Hosted in the yachting capital of the world, the show brings out an array of boats in all sizes, from inflatables to luxury yachts, alongside a suite of other marine products, builders, designers, and even exotic cars. This show has attracted some of the best names in outdoor lifestyles, including Guy Harvey, Elite Traveler, Southern Boating, and Robb Report.
Hosted by the McKee Botanical Garden, this unique festival celebrates their iconic waterlily collection that’s been intriguing guests since the 1930s. The festival includes a viewing of the blooming lilies and hundreds of other plants, a photo contest, and art demonstrations. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, it’s hard not to be inspired by this delicate array of natural beauty. This even is partnered with the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.
Hosted by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, this 12-mile parade is touted as the greatest show on H2O. Hundreds of boats drift through the Intracoastal Waterway decked out in lights, decorations, musical ensembles, and even celebrities. The event has attracted high-profile sponsors like iHeartRadio, Southwest Airlines, the Miami Yacht Show , and more.
Manatees are one of Florida’s most beloved members of the wildlife community, so it’s only fitting they receive their very own festival. This fun, family-friendly festival offers a great viewing of manatees in all their splendor. There’s also plenty of games, face painting, 100+ arts and crafts vendor booths, and live entertainment. The event wouldn’t be possible without the help from a few sponsors, including Central Florida News Channel 13, Orange City Racing and Club Card , Friends of Blue Spring State Park, and the Central Florida Zoo and Botanicals, among others.
The only event of its kind in Florida, this show is all about the off-road and airboat lifestyles. Vehicles like trucks, Jeeps, buggies, side by sides, ATVs, and airboats will be tricked out and on display. It’s a total immersion in the fast-paced world of off road riding, including a variety of parts and accessories vendors on site to show you the latest and greatest in the industry. The event also includes sponsorship from 74 Family Fun Park, Florida Motorsports, Florida Diesel, Florida Country Magazine, and Everglades Motorcycle Service , to name a few.
Englewood Beach experiences an invasion of paddlesports each November as paddlers take to the water in droves. SUP-ers and kayakers can take part in races of varying lengths or simply enjoy a few days on the water with fellow paddlers. Prizes, a hot tub and pool party, and local cuisine are a big part of the experience, and you’ll want to see and do it all. This event is backed by Paradise Exclusive Real Estate, Punta Gorda Engelwood Beach, and Charlotte Country.
Florida Sportsman Magazine hosts one of the biggest outdoor expos in the state. Chock full of seminars and exhibitors, you can find the best in industry expertise and products in a single location. A boat showcase, fishing seminars, demonstrations, a kid’s fishing derby, and hands-on instruction are just a few of the highlights you can expect each year. The Big and Wild Outdoors show will be broadcasting live from the event, so you might just get your 15 minutes of fame here, too.
Though this event has passed for this year, you’ll want to mark your calendars for next year’s event. Cortez is one of the state’s oldest fishing villages, and its annual festival helps to maintain its Old Florida charm and heritage. The event attracts around 25,000 people each year for a weekend of seafood, exhibits, live music, arts and crafts, and a walk through the historical village. There’s also opportunities for camping to get the full outdoor experience. This festival is help put together by the Anna Maria Island Sun, Bradenton Herald, Tobacco Free Florida, and Compass Self Storage.
Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
