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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Orlando, FL

Home Care Orlando, FL

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Orlando, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Orlando, FL

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Orlando, FL?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Orlando, FL

Types of Elderly Care in Orlando, FL

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Orlando, FL
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Orlando, FL
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Orlando, FL
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Orlando, FL

Benefits of Home Care in Orlando, FL

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Orlando, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Orlando, FL

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your FL's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Orlando, FL

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Orlando, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Orlando, FL

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Orlando, FL

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Home Care Orlando, FL

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Orlando, FL

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Orlando, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Orlando, FL

Latest News in Orlando, FL

How gas prices have changed in Orlando in the last week

Maridav // Shutterstock How gas prices have changed in Orlando in the last week While prices at the pump are lower than they were at this time last year, fuel costs are still up by about 10 cents per gallon compared to this time last month, per AAA data. The national average gas price sits at $3.16, with states in the South seeing the lowest prices in the nation. At $2.69 per gallon, Mississippi currently has the lowest average fuel price, while California has the highest at $4.80.While ...

Maridav // Shutterstock

How gas prices have changed in Orlando in the last week

While prices at the pump are lower than they were at this time last year, fuel costs are still up by about 10 cents per gallon compared to this time last month, per AAA data. The national average gas price sits at $3.16, with states in the South seeing the lowest prices in the nation. At $2.69 per gallon, Mississippi currently has the lowest average fuel price, while California has the highest at $4.80.

While President Trump agreed to a 30-day pause on imposing 25% tariffs for Canadian and Mexican imports earlier this month, concerns about the economic effects of potential tariffs remain. GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan predicts that tariffs on Canada could have the largest impact on gas prices in the Northeast, Great Lakes, Midwest, and Rocky Mountain regions.

"Trump's new trade war has already triggered retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, escalating tensions," De Haan said in a statement earlier this month. "While, on paper, tariffs on Canadian energy could have a significant impact on fuel prices, a prolonged trade war could weaken global economies, reducing demand and partially offsetting the effects of tariffs."

Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Orlando, FL metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of February 13.

Orlando by the numbers- Gas current price: $3.11--- Florida average: $3.09- Week change: -$0.16 (-4.9%)- Year change: -$0.18 (-5.6%)- Historical expensive gas price: $4.89 (6/13/22)

- Diesel current price: $3.57- Week change: -$0.07 (-2.0%)- Year change: -$0.53 (-12.8%)- Historical expensive diesel price: $5.70 (6/11/22)

Metros with the most expensive gas#1. Lihue (Kauai), HI: $5.20#2. Santa Rosa, CA: $5.17#3. San Rafael, CA: $5.16

Metros with the least expensive gas#1. Laredo, TX: $2.58#2. Tyler, TX: $2.61#3. Lubbock, TX: $2.61

This story features writing by Tim Bruns and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 371 metros.

You may also like: Movies and TV shows casting in Orlando

Egg shortages scramble Florida shoppers as prices soar

Major retailers limit purchases on eggsWINTER PARK, Fla. – Florida grocery shoppers are feeling the impact of an ongoing egg shortage as major retailers impose purchase limits in response to supply chain disruptions caused by bird flu.Stores like Trader Joe’s, Publix, Kroger Delivery, and Costco have begun restricting customers to just one dozen eggs per day, leaving many scrambling to find alternatives....

Major retailers limit purchases on eggs

WINTER PARK, Fla. – Florida grocery shoppers are feeling the impact of an ongoing egg shortage as major retailers impose purchase limits in response to supply chain disruptions caused by bird flu.

Stores like Trader Joe’s, Publix, Kroger Delivery, and Costco have begun restricting customers to just one dozen eggs per day, leaving many scrambling to find alternatives.

During visits to a Publix in Winter Park and a Trader Joe’s in Winter Park, News 6 found empty shelves and signs warning customers of the new purchase limits.

“I just bought eggs and it’s crazy. The prices are ridiculous, you can’t afford it going up,” says one shopper.

The shortage is driven by a persistent outbreak of H5N1 bird flu, which has decimated poultry farms across the country. Texas A&M livestock economist David Anderson says the industry is struggling to recover.

“We continue to have outbreaks, and that cuts into our supplies. Our ability to make up for those lost chickens just isn’t there,” Anderson said.

Despite the limited supply, demand for eggs remains high, causing prices to soar. According to Anderson, egg prices have nearly doubled in the past three months, forcing some families to rethink their grocery lists.

“Eggs are a staple, and people still want them. That’s what’s driving these skyrocketing prices,” he said.

Some shoppers are turning to alternative sources, like local farms, to avoid the rising costs.

“I mean, I’ve seen that it’s so expensive at the grocery stores. We’re really lucky, my girls go to school, and we have a family that has a farm,” said shopper Jenna Mamele. “We buy our eggs directly from them. We know where they’re coming from, they’re healthy, organic, natural; and actually a lot cheaper than what I would get in the store.”

Retailers say the limits are meant to ensure that as many customers as possible can access eggs, but it’s unclear when the shortage will ease.

For now, shoppers may have to shell out more for eggs or find creative ways to keep breakfast sunny-side up.

Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below:

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Puff, puff, banned: Florida cracks down on vapes targeting kids

Hefty fines to start in MarchORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Florida is grappling with a surge of illegal vapes flooding the market, more than any other state, according to the Florida Retail Federation. Many of these vapes are designed to appeal to children, with vibrant colors, cartoon imagery, and fun flavors, the agency told News 6.Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, highlighted the dangers of these unregulated produ...

Hefty fines to start in March

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Florida is grappling with a surge of illegal vapes flooding the market, more than any other state, according to the Florida Retail Federation. Many of these vapes are designed to appeal to children, with vibrant colors, cartoon imagery, and fun flavors, the agency told News 6.

Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, highlighted the dangers of these unregulated products.

“You’ve got a product that someone is putting in their body that is coming from overseas, primarily China, that has not been evaluated,” Shalley explained. “Worst-case scenario, is there the opportunity for the infusion of fentanyl or some other deadly product? Are there other chemicals that may be included that have not been evaluated by the FDA?”

There are 34 FDA-approved electronic cigarettes on the market, but Shalley warned there are about 1,000 unregulated products available and that many of them target our most impressionable consumers.

“They are packaged to be appealing in terms of the imagery, going down the lines of cartoons and other things and they appeal to children from a marketing level,” said Shalley.

The State of Florida is trying to crack down. Last year, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1007, empowering the Attorney General’s office to create a directory of single-use nicotine vapes believed to be marketed to children. News 6 obtained the directory, which listed more than 150 products.

The directory is public, and stores have 60 days to sell or remove listed products. After this period, these vapes can be seized or destroyed. Anyone who sells or ships a device on the list could get hit with a $1,000 fine per device.

According to the Florida Attorney General’s office, a product must meet certain criteria for it to be placed on the directory, including reports of harm, complaints, surveys or other data sources that indicate a device is being used by minors at a higher rate than other nicotine dispensing devices, and the extent to which the device:

News 6 went to more than a dozen vape shops in Central Florida and found that only 2 out of 13 stores were aware of the directory.

Zack Pollack, who works at Winter Garden E-Cigs in Winter Garden, told us he did not know about the list. We showed it to him. Pollack took notice of the listed products, some of which were in stock in his store.

“Before the date, we’ll sell them, and then after we’ll comply with the government 100%,” he said.

In addition to stores being fined for selling the banned items, under the new law, manufacturers who distribute products on the directory also face a $1,000 daily fine until the item is removed from the Florida market. This also applies to stores, wholesalers, and distributors shipping products into the state. Fines begin on March 1.

News 6 asked the Florida Attorney General’s office if retailers, manufacturers and distributors will receive any sort of notice when a product is listed in the directory. A spokesperson provided this statement:

Manufacturers receive actual notice of the intended inclusion on the nicotine dispensing device directory. All members of the public (including retailers and distributors) can sign up to receive notification when a change has been made to the directory, or the notices to the manufacturer of the intent to place its device on the directory. To learn more, please visit https://www.myfloridalegal.com/NDD.

Chase Sizemore, Communications Director, Office of the Attorney General.

Notices were sent to more than 150 manufacturers on Jan. 31, according to the Florida Retail Federation. Manufacturers have 30 days to appeal.

“We don’t expect the single operator to keep their fingers directly on the pulse all the time so we need to help in terms of education notices when products are added to the list,” said Shalley.

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Orlando U-Pick Farms – Oranges, Blueberries, Strawberries, Sunflowers, and More

Once upon a time, farmland spread across Florida, as far as the eye can see. Things may be different nowadays, but there are plenty of u-pick farms near Orlando. Visiting u-pick farms in Central Florida to pick your own strawberries, citrus, blueberries, and flowers is a rite of winter and early spring.These local farmers welcome guests for an authentic Florida farm experience. Finish off your satisfying day date by making homemade jam, pie, or sangria with the fruits of your labor.Tip: Take note of what season...

Once upon a time, farmland spread across Florida, as far as the eye can see. Things may be different nowadays, but there are plenty of u-pick farms near Orlando. Visiting u-pick farms in Central Florida to pick your own strawberries, citrus, blueberries, and flowers is a rite of winter and early spring.

These local farmers welcome guests for an authentic Florida farm experience. Finish off your satisfying day date by making homemade jam, pie, or sangria with the fruits of your labor.

Tip: Take note of what season each fruit ripens, and note that hours of operation and availability can change.

Wear sun protection and closed-toed shoes for tromping around in the Florida scrub and bring a bottle of water.

In this guide to u-pick farms in Orlando, we will cover blueberry farms, strawberry farms, citrus and orange farms, plus places to pick your own flowers. Wondering what's in season? Here's an overview:

Featured Farm:

Experience nature out at Amber Brooke Farms, the premier farming destination in central Florida. Visit during one of the signature festivals and events, including Strawberry Festival, Blueberry Festival, Easter, or our all-new Sweet Corn Festival in May.

All festivals include live music, all farm activities included in admission, as well as special entertainment and seasonal food and drink options made from the fruit grown on the property. Come during one of the U-Pick days with free admission for all ages.

The Eustis location offers over 40 activities from the slide hill, archery, gel blaster range, wagon ride, cow train, ball zones, and more. There’s something for the entire family to relax, unwind, and remember what matters most.

Every day is a unique time on the farm, so be sure to visit throughout the season for surprises, memories, and family fun.

View our video to see what it's like to spend a day at Amber Brooke Farms in Eustis:

These farms in Orlando offer strawberry picking, during strawberry season in Florida is December – March.

217 Cress Run, Oviedo, Florida 32765

Located in Oviedo, neighbors to Black Hammock Airboat tours, Pappy’s is popular among Florida families during strawberry season. Visit their Facebook Page for live updates on current hours and when they’re all picked out. Strawberries are $3.50 per pound. The farm accepts cash and credit cards.

4261 Canoe Creek Road, Saint Cloud, Florida 34772

Strawberries: December – April

Come for the strawberry picking, and stay for the well-stocked farm stand! This farm in St. Cloud offers u-pick strawberries each season for $5.00 per pound. Make sure to stock up on fresh fruits and veggies while you're there. Check Facebook for the latest updates on u-pick availability.

32430 Avington Rd, Sorrento, FL 32776

Head to Oak Haven farms for a relaxing u-pick experience. Reward yourself post-pick at the Oak Haven Winery with a refreshing glass of blueberry or strawberry wine. These unique wines are cultivated with the berries on site and have a Florida flavor characteristic of dry winters and long, sunny days.

U-pick strawberries are $4.00 per pound and sunflowers are $2 per stem. Check Facebook for the latest info.

Get the full list of options with our Guide to Picking Strawberries in Orlando

Living in Florida, we're surrounded by luscious citrus groves bursting with fruit ripe for the picking. December to March, sometimes later, is time to go orange picking in Orlando.

14803 Lake Yale Rd Umatilla, FL 32784

Honey Bells, Red Navels and Sugar Bells are just some of the citrus available at Graham's Farm in Umatilla. Oranges and citrus fruits are available December to late January. Kale and Collards are also available during this time. Graham's Farm in Umatilla is one of the best places in the Orlando area for u-pick peaches. In April and May you can pick your own peaches. They often have a bring your own bucket special. Check their Facebook page for specials and operating hours.

15051 Frank Jarrell Rd. Clermont, FL 34714

Showcase of Citrus in Clermont is a fabulous day adventure, especially this time of year when the ruby red grapefruit and sweet tangerines are at their peak.

Bags with printed maps of the grove along with lots of helpful directional signs will lead you right to the sweet treasures you seek. About 45 minutes from downtown, Showcase of Citrus is open 7 days a week from dusk 'til dawn.

Get the full list of options with our Guide to Picking Oranges and Citrus in Orlando

Did you know Orlando has some great spots where you can pick your own floral beauties? Whether you are into making your own arrangements or are looking for something different to do, these places to pick your own flowers in Central Florida offer a unique date day experience. Bringing your own scissors is a good idea in case the farm runs out.

36111 County Rd 44A, Eustis, FL 32736

A charming farm awaits in Eustis, just under an hour's drive from Orlando. Amber Brooke Farms recently refreshed their family farm to include fun activities. Throughout the year you can enjoy seasonal events. During the fall their Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch are lots of fun. And during the fall, winter, and early spring you can pick your own sunflowers and zinnias. Plus the farm has other outdoor activities too.

Amber Brooke Farms in Eustis tops our list of places to pick your own flowers because of the great farm setting with included activities. Plus there is a small playground for young kids and a stand selling craft beer and wine, and soft drinks.

Get the full list of Places to Pick Your Own Flowers in Orlando

16651 Schofield Rd, Clermont, FL 34714

Strawberries: December – March Sunflowers: Spring, Fall, Winter Blueberries: March or April-May Peaches: April

You'll hardly know you're in Florida while picking blueberries, sunflowers, strawberries, and peaches atop rolling hills at this family-owned and operated farm in Clermont.

You can also pick your own sunflowers for a fresh bouquet! Other seasonal u-picks include peaches and blueberries. With over 40 acres of blueberry bushes on 120 acres of land and 10 varieties to choose from, you're bound to find something you enjoy. Check the farm's Facebook page for current hours and updates. This is a popular farm; we recommend visiting on a weekday or getting to the farm right at opening on weekends for the best experience.

A charming farm awaits in Eustis, just under an hour's drive from Orlando. Amber Brooke Farms recently refreshed their family farm to include fun activities. Throughout the year you can enjoy seasonal events.

Amber Brooke Farms in Eustis tops our list of places to pick your own blueberries because of the great farm setting with included activities. Plus there is a small playground for young kids and a stand selling craft beer and wine, and soft drinks.

Important note – Please check Amber Brooke's Facebook or Instagram page before making your trip out to the farm. They will notify everyone via social media if the farm has been picked out for the day.

1255 S. Dora Blvd., Tavares, FL 32778

Blueberries: March – May

Far Reach Ranch was established in 1947 as a cattle ranch and orange grove and eventually became a blueberry farm in 1994 when the first few acres were planted. The farm has UPICK, events, live music, and more throughout the year.

UPICK blueberry pricing is usually $5 per pound and pre-picked blueberries will be $6.50 per pound.

Get the full list of options with our Guide to Blueberry Picking in Orlando

Looking for more Florida farms?

MegaCon Orlando wraps up another record-breaking year

ORLANDO, Fla. — The ultimate pop culture extravaganza, MegaCon Orlando, wrapped up its four-day run, drawing more than 160,000 fans from across the country.What You Need To Know From comics and sci-fi to horror, anime, and gaming, the event transformed the Orange County Convention Center into a paradise for enthusiasts of all things geek culture.The convention, which ran from Thursday to Sunday, featured over 1,000 exhibitors, offering collectibles, artwork, and exclusive merchandise.Attend...

ORLANDO, Fla. — The ultimate pop culture extravaganza, MegaCon Orlando, wrapped up its four-day run, drawing more than 160,000 fans from across the country.

What You Need To Know

From comics and sci-fi to horror, anime, and gaming, the event transformed the Orange County Convention Center into a paradise for enthusiasts of all things geek culture.

The convention, which ran from Thursday to Sunday, featured over 1,000 exhibitors, offering collectibles, artwork, and exclusive merchandise.

Attendees also had the chance to meet some of their favorite stars, with A-list celebrities like Danny Glover, Jude Law, and Mel Gibson making appearances.

For Jason Selezinka, a vendor and longtime MegaCon attendee, the event has become an annual tradition.

“Everybody was selling their wares and arts, and I just thought, 'You know, I have a background in art,' and I felt like I could do it. So now I do my own,” said Selezinka, who has attended MegaCon for 12 years as both a fan and vendor.

Beyond the shopping and celebrity encounters, MegaCon is about building community.

“My favorite part is seeing my vendor friends, obviously, and then the returning guests who come back to see me every year,” Selezinka added. “We get to have great conversations and build real connections.”

While some, like Selezinka, are MegaCon veterans, others were experiencing the event for the first time. Aaron Dunn, a first-time attendee, was blown away by the sheer scale of the convention.

“This is amazing! It’s my first time at a con like this, and I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s absolutely huge—and incredible,” Dunn said.

Fans dressed as their favorite characters, participated in panel discussions, and engaged in interactive exhibits. From elaborate cosplay competitions to exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming films and games, MegaCon provided something for everyone.

With record-breaking attendance and a high-energy atmosphere, MegaCon Orlando continues to solidify its reputation as one of the largest fan conventions in North America.

And for vendors like Selezinka, the countdown to next year has already begun.

“This is one of my favorite shows to do. I have two must-do shows every year — MegaCon is one of them.”

As the doors closed on another successful event, one thing was clear: MegaCon isn’t just a convention, it’s an experience that brings fans together, year after year.

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