Sometimes the Orlando theme parks can really tire you out despite all the fun you can have! But that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything else for you to do. Disney theme parks are great, but there are some other wonderful things you can do in the Orlando area. This weekend Downtown Disney will be hosting the Festival of the Masters, a nationally recognized art festival hosted every year in the shopping, dining and entertainment complex. For 34 years, 150 award-winning artists from around the world come to compete in this awesome festival that features activities for adults and kids.

Over by Disney Quest, artists will be giving the kiddies free lessons on how to draw their favorite Disney characters. They will also be creating a masterpiece of their own on the sidewalks of Downtown Disney with colored chalk, encouraging the little ones to join in. The nearby Cirque Du Soleil arena, which features the show La Nouba, will also have its own stars and performers coming out to greet the kids. DJ’s will be on hand to play music in the afternoons as people stroll about looking at all of the great artists and vendors.

Joe Kaminski, the man that has won the Festival of the Masters three times in a row, will be at the art show again this weekend showing off his nature-inspired pieces. Since the festival marks the beginning of the Disney holiday shopping season, we’re sure all of the great shops in Downtown Disney will be open for you to explore, but don’t forget to support the artists as well! The Festival of the Masters is a great way to enjoy the wonderful weather Orlando has during this time of the year while still being part of the Disney environment offered at Downtown Disney. They have been in a big renovation phase and have opened up new restaurants and stores---and they continue to do so! So make sure you stop by this festival and participate in the great activities as you check out the wonderful art. After all, it’s one of the most recognized festivals in the nation!