The

Demings

Digest

November 2025

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings visits Walmart during last year’s Holiday Toy Drive Shop & Drop event.

Greetings,

The holiday season has arrived — a time to gather with loved ones, reflect on our blessings and enjoy the many celebrations that make our community special. I encourage you to take part in some of the wonderful events highlighted in this newsletter.

This November marks 15 years of giving back through the Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive. Thanks to your generosity, we have collected nearly 97,000 toys for local families in need since 2011 — and we hope to make this year’s drive our best yet. Beginning November 3, you can donate new, unwrapped toys in person or online through our Virtual Toy Store.

Get into the holiday spirit and support a great cause! The Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive begins Monday, November 3, and we need your help to bring joy to families in need.

Donate new, unwrapped toys or gifts for children 18 and under at participating drop-off locations throughout Orange County, or make a contribution online through the County’s Virtual Toy Shop. All donations will be distributed to Orange County youth and family agencies, helping ensure that every child experiences the joy of the season.

Learn more: ocfl.net/ToyDrive

In the News

Sustainability Initiatives Deliver Big Wins for Taxpayers and the Community

The County’s sustainability initiatives are reducing pollution, conserving natural resources and saving taxpayers millions of dollars — all while improving efficiency and creating lasting value across government operations.

Orange County Strengthens Community Health Through Mental Health and Homelessness Programs

Orange County continues to invest in programs that strengthen the health and stability of residents by addressing two deeply connected challenges: mental health and homelessness.

FusionFest

Join us for FusionFest, a two-day celebration of the many cultures that make Central Florida shine. Enjoy captivating live performances, delicious global cuisine and interactive experiences representing more than 110 unique cultures. Do not miss this unforgettable festival — a feast for the senses and fun for all ages.

Date: November 29-30, 2025

Time: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Location: Seneff Arts Plaza at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs proudly supports FusionFest. For more information, visit fusionfest.org.

Thanksgiving Collection Schedule

There will be no curbside collection service in unincorporated Orange County on Thanksgiving, November 27. During that week, Thursday customers will be serviced on Friday, and Friday customers will be serviced on Saturday.

Visit www.ocfl.net/HolidayCurbsideCollection for more information.

One-Day-a-Week Watering

Saving water starts with you! When you change your clocks, change your irrigation timer too! One-day-a-week watering goes into effect with the end of Daylight Saving Time on Sunday, November 2. Check www.ocfl.net/WateringRestrictions to find your designated watering day.

Community Calendar

ArtsInOrlando.com

Fall Season

Explore Orange County’s cultural destinations, local art scene, workshops, camps and more — all in one place.

November at the Library

All Month

Discover exciting programs, author talks and resources at the Orange County Library System.

Fall Fiesta in the Park

November 1-2

Hundreds of artists, crafters and food vendors fill the streets around Lake Eola Park for this beloved family-friendly tradition.

Orlando Veterans Day Parade

November 8, 11 a.m.

This year’s parade in Lake Nona honors the dedication and sacrifice of our military service members — past and present.

History Takes Flight

November 8, 2 p.m.

Visit the Orange County Regional History Center to explore the fascinating world of raptors and meet Maple the Barred Owl from the Center for Birds of Prey.

Maker Faire Orlando

November 8-9

Engineers, artists and inventors showcase their innovative and creative projects and experiments at this interactive festival for all ages.

Orange County Veterans Day Ceremony

November 10, 11 a.m.

Join Mayor Demings at the Orange County Administration Building as we honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Union Park Food Distribution

November 15, 9:30 a.m

Join Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad at Union Park Middle School for a holiday food distribution event to support local families.

Thanksgiving Turkey Drive-Thru

November 19-20

Sign up to receive a free turkey and nonperishable items at the Thanksgiving Drive Thru hosted by District 2 Commissioner Christine Moore.