06 Sep Maker Faire Orlando 2026 Visitor Guide: Tickets, Schedule, and Workshops
Central Florida is gearing up for one of its most exciting annual events. Maker Faire Orlando 2026 is set to take place on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, at the Central Florida Expo Center and Fairgrounds. This beloved event brings together inventors, artists, scientists, and curious minds from all over the country. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning fan, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect weekend.
What Is Maker Faire Orlando?
Maker Faire Orlando is often called the “Greatest Show and Tell on Earth.” It is a non-profit, community-organized celebration of creativity, invention, and do-it-yourself culture. The event is organized by The Maker Effect Foundation, a 501(c)(3) educational charity based in Orlando, Florida.
Think of it as part science fair, part county fair, and part something entirely new. Hundreds of makers set up exhibits to show off their projects. These projects cover a wide range of fields. You will find robots, electronics, crafts, rockets, 3D printing, cosplay, and much more. The event is open to all ages and backgrounds. It truly has something for everyone.
Additionally, the event is independently organized and operated under license from Make: Community, LLC. A portion of the event is also funded by Orange County Government through the Arts and Cultural Affairs Program. This means your attendance helps support the arts and education in Central Florida.
Event Dates, Hours, and Location
Here are the key details you need to mark on your calendar:
| Detail | Information |
| Event Dates | Saturday, November 7 & Sunday, November 8, 2026 |
| Hours | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (both days) |
| Venue | Central Florida Expo Center & Fairgrounds |
| Address | 4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808 |
| Parking | Free on-site parking all weekend |
| Contact Email | makers@makerfaireorlando.com |
| Phone | (407) 634-6257 |
The venue is large and well-suited to hosting a big event. Three large indoor exhibit halls keep things cool and comfortable. There are also outdoor areas filled with hands-on activities, competitions, and open exhibits. Rain or shine, the event goes on as planned.
Field Trip Day: Friday, November 6, 2026
Before the main weekend kicks off, there is a special bonus day. On Friday, November 6, 2026, Maker Faire Orlando hosts its second annual Field Trip Day. This day is designed specifically for school groups and homeschool families.
Students, teachers, and homeschool families can register in advance to attend. The day features the same hands-on learning and creative exhibits found during the main weekend. However, it is reserved only for pre-registered groups. If you are an educator or homeschool parent, this is a fantastic opportunity. It gives children a unique, immersive learning experience they simply cannot get in a classroom.
Tickets: Pricing, Options, and Special Programs
Getting your tickets ahead of time is highly recommended. Advance tickets start at $20 for adults and $15 for kids. Buying early saves you money compared to gate prices. Tickets are sold through Humanitix, a ticketing platform that donates 100% of its profits to children’s charities.
Here is a breakdown of the ticket options and special programs available:
| Ticket Type | Price / Notes |
| Adult (Advance) | Starting at $20 |
| Kids (Advance) | Starting at $15 |
| Children Under 2 | Free |
| Student (with valid college ID) | Discounted rate |
| First Responders / Active Military / Veterans | Free with valid ID (at ticket booth) |
| EBT Cardholders (Making For All program) | $5 per person, per day |
| Single Day Pass | Valid for one day (Saturday or Sunday) |
| Weekend Pass | Valid for both days (non-transferable) |
There are a few important rules to keep in mind. Weekend passes cannot be shared between attendees. Single day passes, however, can be used on either Saturday or Sunday. If you buy your ticket online, you will receive an email confirmation with a link to print your ticket. You can also show your ticket on a mobile device at the gate.
The event also runs a “Making For All” program. This ensures that financial barriers do not stop anyone from attending. Families with an EBT card pay just $5 per person per day. First responders, active military members, and veterans receive free admission with identification. Just bring your ID to the ticket booth.
However, you can transfer unused tickets to another attendee before using them. You cannot share weekend passes, but you can use single-day passes on Saturday or Sunday.
What to Expect: Exhibits, Competitions, and Entertainment
The heart of the event is the exhibits. Hundreds of makers bring their projects to share with the public. The indoor halls and outdoor spaces are packed with creative displays and hands-on activities. Most exhibits and activities run continuously throughout the weekend. This means you can drop in and explore at your own pace.
Robot Ruckus Combat Robot Competition
One of the most thrilling highlights of the weekend is Robot Ruckus. This is the event’s signature combat robot competition. Competitors come from across the United States to battle their robots in exciting head-to-head matches. You will also see robots on display from the famous BattleBots TV show. It is a crowd favorite and draws huge audiences throughout both days.
Main Stage Talks, Panels, and Performances
The main stage is where scheduled activities take place. Speakers, panelists, and performers take the stage throughout both days. Topics range from theme park design and technology to community building and creative innovation. Therefore, it is a good idea to check the schedule in advance so you do not miss any talks or performances that interest you.
Past speakers have included professionals from Universal Creative, international project managers, and makers from a wide variety of industries. The lineup changes each year, so check the official website closer to the event for the 2026 speaker schedule.
Other Competitions and Activities
Beyond robots, the event features a wide range of competitions and activities:
- Power Racing Series featuring small electric racing vehicles
- Nerdy Derby, a fun derby-style race for homemade cars
- Cosplay makers and costume showcases
- STEM and STEAM demonstrations for all ages
- 3D printing exhibits and live demos
- Rocketry displays and science experiments
- Electronics and hardware hacking projects
- Art installations and large-scale creative spectacles
There is no shortage of things to see and do. Even if you spend the entire weekend exploring, you will likely discover something new each time you turn a corner.
Who Are the Makers?
Makers are the heart and soul of this event. They come from all walks of life. Some are professional engineers and scientists. Others are weekend hobbyists, artists, crafters, or curious teenagers who taught themselves a new skill. What they all share is a love of making and a desire to share their work with others.
Individuals and community groups can exhibit free of charge. They simply bring a project, demo, or craft to share. Those who sell handmade goods pay a small seller fee of $150. This open and inclusive approach means the exhibits are genuine, personal, and diverse.
You might meet a retired engineer who builds model rockets in his garage. Or you might chat with a teenager who learned electronics on YouTube and built her own synthesizer. Every exhibit has a story behind it. Additionally, talking directly with makers is one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.
Planning Your Visit: Tips for a Great Day
A little planning goes a long way at a large event like this. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your time:
- Buy tickets in advance to save money and avoid long gate lines
- Download or print the event program and map before you arrive
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best parking spot
- Wear comfortable shoes — you will be on your feet most of the day
- Check the Main Stage schedule and plan your route around must-see talks
- Bring a refillable water bottle (sealed bottles of water are permitted inside)
- Strollers and backpacks are welcome inside the venue
- No pets are allowed for their safety, but trained ADA-recognized service animals are welcome
The venue does not allow outside food or beverages, unless you have medical, dietary, or religious requirements. However, a wide variety of food vendors will be on-site throughout the weekend. There is no need to worry about going hungry.
Getting There and Parking
The Central Florida Expo Center and Fairgrounds is easy to reach from most parts of Orlando. It sits on West Colonial Drive (US-50), making it accessible from major highways. On-site parking is free for all attendees both days. This is a welcome perk that saves families from extra costs.
If you prefer not to drive, the venue is reachable via public transit. Check Orange County’s LYNX bus routes for options near the 4603 W Colonial Dr location. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also serve the area well.
How to Exhibit at Maker Faire Orlando 2026
If you want to participate as a maker rather than just a visitor, the process is straightforward. Individuals and community groups can apply to exhibit for free. Simply submit an exhibit application on the official Maker Faire Orlando website.
If you plan to sell handmade goods, a $150 seller fee applies. Businesses and commercial sponsors have separate arrangements and are encouraged to contact the organizers directly. Combat robot competitors should register through buildersdb, the official robot combat registration platform.
Conclusion
Maker Faire Orlando 2026 promises to be a fantastic weekend for families, educators, tech enthusiasts, and creative minds alike. The event runs on November 7 and 8, 2026, at the Central Florida Expo Center and Fairgrounds, from 10 AM to 5 PM each day. Parking is free, the ticket programs are generous, and the exhibits are truly one of a kind.
From the thrilling Robot Ruckus competition to hands-on workshops, main stage talks, and hundreds of creative exhibits, there is no shortage of things to explore. The event also leads with an inclusive spirit, offering free and discounted admission for veterans, first responders, EBT cardholders, and educators.
Whether you come for one day or both, you are guaranteed to leave inspired. Start planning your visit now, grab your tickets through Humanitix, and get ready to experience the best of human creativity and invention. November cannot come soon enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is Maker Faire Orlando 2026?
Maker Faire Orlando 2026 takes place on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, 2026. The venue is the Central Florida Expo Center and Fairgrounds at 4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808. Hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both days.
How much do tickets cost for Maker Faire Orlando 2026?
Advance adult tickets start at $20 and kids tickets start at $15. Children under 2 are free. Veterans, first responders, and active military members receive free admission with valid ID. EBT cardholders can attend for just $5 per person per day through the Making For All program.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes. On-site parking at the Central Florida Expo Center and Fairgrounds is free for all attendees throughout the entire weekend. No parking fees apply.
Can I get a refund if I cannot attend?
No. The event does not offer refunds or exchanges. However, you can transfer unused tickets to another attendee before using them. You cannot share weekend passes, but you can use single-day passes on either Saturday or Sunday.
What can kids do at Maker Faire Orlando?
There is a huge range of activities for children. Kids can watch combat robots compete in the Robot Ruckus arena, participate in the Nerdy Derby, explore STEM exhibits, see rockets, try hands-on crafts, and meet makers from all backgrounds. The entire event is family-friendly and designed to spark curiosity in visitors of every age.