Fringe History

The Orlando Fringe Festival is the longest-running Fringe Festival in the United States, founded in 1992. Inspired by the original Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the event was established to provide an uncensored, accessible, and inclusive platform for independent artists to showcase their work.

Key Milestones in Orlando Fringe History:

• 1992 – The first Orlando Fringe Festival took place in downtown Orlando with just a few performances.

• 1995 – The festival grew in popularity, moving to Loch Haven Park in Ivanhoe Village, a cultural hub in Orlando.

• 2001 – Orlando Fringe introduced Kids Fringe, a family-friendly segment with interactive performances for children.

• 2011 – The festival celebrated its 20th anniversary and continued expanding its lineup with more performances and international artists.

• 2013 – The Fringe expanded its presence by introducing Fringe Winter Mini-Fest, offering a smaller-scale festival in the off-season.

• 2022 – Orlando Fringe celebrated its 30th anniversary, further solidifying its status as one of the most significant and longest-running Fringe Festivals in North America.

Ivanhoe Village Businesses

Check out awesome festival deals from participating local businesses! (*Must show festival button to receive promotion.)

1. Savoy: Fringe Cocktails; To-Go Menu Specials
2. Ivanhoe Park Brewing: BOGO Core Draft Beer
3. Autumn & Ro: 20% off all Jewelry by Saison; 20% off one Artisan Workshop Registration
4. DePalma: 10% off retail
5. Retro City Cycles: 15% off accessories, including Goodr sunglasses
6. BarkHaven Dog Bar:
7. Rare Earth Gift: A free tumbled stone from the “window of rocks” (no purchase necessary), plus 10% off any purchase
8. Authentic Books: 10%off with code FRINGE; “Best Dressed Contest”: Gift card for a free fill-a-tote; participants can take a selfie in-store and tag Authentic Books on Instagram
9. Ski World: 10% off all sunglasses, as well as have a sidewalk super sale rack