ORLANDO, Fla. – The 14-day immersive Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival is returning to Orlando with more than 100 shows, a free outdoor music festival, art displays, activities for kids and so much more.
The yearly festival brings together local, national and international artists. It’s considered the longest-running Fringe theatre festival in the U.S.
According to a press release, “Orlando Fringe is founded on being: 100% uncensored, 100% unjuried, 100% accessible, 100% inclusive and 100% of all tickets go directly back to the artists.”
This year’s theme is “Let Your Fringe Flag Fly.”
It all starts with an opening ceremonies and a ribbon-cutting event at the Orlando Family Stage on May 13 at 7 p.m. After the ribbon cutting, there will be a 1-minute live teaser performance for touring shows representing five countries and more than 20 states. Tickets are $15 and it’s recommended for ages 13 & up.
There’s a lot going on, so we caught up with Genevieve Bernard, director of Experience at Orlando Fringe, with what you can expect.
What should people know before they go to Orlando Fringe?
“Orlando Fringe is a choose-your-own-adventure experience! With hundreds of performances to explore, the best way to get started is by checking out our website or printed program for show descriptions. Once you find something that interests you, you can purchase your tickets online or at our on-site box offices. I encourage people to see a show they know they’ll enjoy— and also take a chance on something completely new and unexpected.
It’s important to note that everyone needs a Fringe button to attend shows. You can buy it in advance online or at the festival. The button helps support the festival, and your ticket purchases go directly to the artists. It’s how we keep Fringe going and growing!
If it’s your first time Fringing, I recommend arriving at least an hour early. That gives you time to park, find your venue, grab a drink and settle into the fun."
Why do I need to buy both a button and a ticket?
“Great question! The Fringe button helps support the festival itself — things like venue costs, operations and free programming. Meanwhile, 100% of ticket sales go straight to the artists."
What if I forget or lose my button?
“No problem! You can always buy a replacement at any of our box office locations during the festival.”
How is this year’s festival different from past years?
“This year, the festival is more centralized than ever — all venues are located in and near Loch Haven Park. We’ve expanded our food truck lineup, added new outdoor activities including pet adoptions, bingo and live music on the outdoor stage.
This year, the festival is centered in Loch Haven Park and features five venues and Visual Fringe HQ at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, four venues at Orlando Family Stage and Kids Fringe at the Orlando Garden Club. Plus, our BYOVs (“Bring Your Own Venues”) return with favorites Renaissance Theatre Company, The Starlite Room @ Savoy, and the new Ten10 Brewing Co., along with exciting site-specific performances throughout the festival grounds."
What events are totally free — no button required?
“There’s plenty to enjoy even if you’re just browsing:
- Kids Fringe – Free activities and performances for families, held both weekends (May 17-18 & May 24-25) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Orlando Garden Club.
- Visual Fringe – Free to explore, and all the artwork is for sale!
- Fringe Lawn & Outdoor Stage – Free live music, performances, food trucks, bingo, community partners, and more."