History Alive: Famous Floridians

About this event

Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Meet the trailblazers who shaped our region in unforgettable ways – from the musicians who lit up Orlando’s South Street Casino to activists and community builders whose legacies continue today. Engage with the evolving story of freedom in our ongoing exhibition How Distant Seems Our Starting Place, join a guided museum tour, and enjoy hands-on activities that highlight the Black Floridians who helped elevate Central Florida’s culture and history. Activities include: Ray’s Rhythm Lab – Music great Ray Charles spent formative years in Florida and later made Orlando’s South Street Casino and the Wells’Built Hotel frequent stops. Try your hand at making your own music and test your knowledge with Ray Charles trivia. The Green Guide – During the era of segregation, The Green Book helped Black travelers find safe places, including Orlando’s Wells’Built Hotel. Explore our special History Center version of the guide, then complete a Florida map featuring notable Black Floridians and historic sites. Build Like Bethune – Step into the inspiring life of Mary McLeod Bethune, educator, activist, and founder of Bethune-Cookman University. Match historic photos and milestones with key moments in her life to discover how her leadership and vision reshaped opportunities in Florida and beyond. Guided museum tours: 10:30 a.m., Noon, 1:45 p.m., 3:30 p.m. Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive We are pleased to once again be part of the Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive! Drop off your new, unwrapped toy donations when you attend this event. You’ll find the donation boxes in the museum’s lobby.