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| When Is Spring Break in Florida 2026 |
Discover when is spring break in Florida 2026 — exact public school and college break dates, peak travel weeks, and tips to plan the perfect spring holiday in the Sunshine State.
Looking ahead to warmer weather, beach trips, or a family getaway, knowing when is spring break in Florida 2026 is essential for students, parents, and travelers alike. While Florida is one of the most popular spring break destinations in the U.S., the exact dates vary depending on whether you’re looking at public school calendars, college breaks, or tourist-focused peak travel periods. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the most up-to-date spring break dates for Florida in 2026, explain regional differences, and give you planning tips so you can make the most of your time in the Sunshine State.
Overall Spring Break Timing in Florida 2026
In Florida, spring break isn’t set by a single statewide date; instead, each school district and college sets its own calendar. However, there are clear patterns for when break typically falls:
- Most public school districts schedule spring break during the week of March 16–20, 2026.
- Some districts, like Miami-Dade County Public Schools, schedule it later — March 23–27, 2026.
- Many universities and colleges have spring breaks that span early to mid-March and even late February into March depending on their academic calendar.
Because these dates vary by institution, it’s helpful to break them down by category: public schools, colleges, and travel seasons.
Spring Break 2026 for Florida Public Schools
Florida’s public school calendars are set by individual districts rather than by the state, but many of the largest counties share similar dates in 2026:
Most Major Districts: March 16–20, 2026
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| When Is Spring Break in Florida 2026 |
The following public school systems observe spring break from Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 20, 2026:
- Broward County Public Schools — March 16–20, 2026
- Palm Beach County — March 16–20, 2026
- Orange County Public Schools (Orlando area) — March 16–20, 2026
- Hillsborough County (Tampa area) — March 16–20, 2026
- Duval County (Jacksonville) — March 16–20, 2026
- Polk County — March 16–20, 2026
This week is the most common period across Florida’s major public school districts, making it the central spring break window for families planning vacations or travel in the state.
Notable Exceptions
Some districts schedule their breaks outside this primary window:
- Miami-Dade County Public Schools: March 23–27, 2026 — one week later than most districts.
Because Florida’s school calendars can differ significantly across counties, always check directly with your specific district’s official site or calendar for confirmation.
Spring Break 2026 for Florida Colleges & Universities
Colleges and universities in Florida often plan spring break based on their academic calendars, which vary from public schools and each other. According to aggregated data from multiple campuses:
Mid-March Breaks (Most Common)
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| When Is Spring Break in Florida 2026 |
- University of Florida (UF): March 14–21, 2026
- Florida State University (FSU): March 16–20, 2026
- University of Central Florida (UCF): March 16–21, 2026
- University of South Florida (USF): March 16–22, 2026
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: March 16–20, 2026
- New College of Florida: March 16–20, 2026
- Valencia College (Orlando): March 16–22, 2026
Early or Alternate Dates
Some campuses schedule spring break earlier or outside the mid-March peak:
- University of Miami: March 7–15, 2026 — earlier than most universities.
- Florida International University (FIU): Feb 23–Mar 1, 2026 — late-February break.
- Florida Atlantic University (FAU): March 7–12, 2026 — early March break.
- Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU): March 2–7, 2026 — early spring break.
- Miami Dade College (MDC): March 23–29, 2026 — later break.
- Broward College: March 2–8, 2026 — early spring break.
- Lynn University: March 8–14, 2026 — early to mid-March break.
These variations mean spring break in Florida for colleges stretches from late February through late March 2026, depending on the institution — with the peak of activity mid-March.
Peak Spring Break Travel in Florida 2026
For travelers who want to visit Florida during its busiest and most vibrant spring break period, the middle of March — especially the week of March 14–21, 2026 — is your best bet. During this time:
- Orlando theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld see high attendance and longer lines.
- South Florida beaches like Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale Beach attract both families and college travelers.
Even if your specific spring break dates fall a bit earlier or later, visitor levels statewide tend to be elevated throughout March due to the overlap of school and college schedules.
Why Florida Is a Top Spring Break Destination
Florida’s popularity for spring break isn’t accidental — it combines great weather with diverse activities for all ages:
Warm Weather & Beautiful Beaches
From Miami’s South Beach to Panama City Beach, Florida’s warm temperatures and sunny skies in March make it the ideal spring escape.
Theme Park Excitement
Orlando’s iconic attractions — including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and LEGOLAND Florida — become hotspots for spring fun. These parks often offer special seasonal events during spring break periods.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer clubs, concerts, and local events that appeal to both younger travelers and families.
Nature & Outdoor Adventures
Beyond beaches and theme parks, Florida residents and visitors can explore ecosystems like the Everglades, enjoy coastal fishing, or take eco-tours through scenic springs and waterways.
How to Plan Around When Is Spring Break in Florida 2026
Whether you’re coordinating school plans, family travel, or a college getaway, here are practical planning tips:
Check Official Academic Calendars
Because spring break dates vary by district and college, always refer to your own school’s calendar or registrar’s office for exact dates to avoid confusion.
Book Travel Early
Peak travel weeks in Florida — especially mid-March — fill up fast. Book flights, hotels, and event tickets early to get better pricing and options.
Choose Your Timing Carefully
If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting slightly before or after the peak weeks — such as the first week of March or the last week of March — while still enjoying spring weather.
Use Official Tools
Travel apps, theme park reservation systems, and district/campus calendars are excellent tools to sync dates and avoid scheduling conflicts.
Quick Reference: Spring Break Dates in Florida 2026
Public Schools (Most Districts):
- March 16–20, 2026
Miami-Dade Public Schools:
- March 23–27, 2026
Colleges (Varies by Campus):
- Feb 23–Mar 1 (FIU)
- March 2–7 (FGCU)
- March 7–15 (UM)
- March 14–21 (UF)
- March 16–22 (UCF, USF, Valencia)
- March 23–29 (MDC)
This wide spread reflects the variety of educational calendars and travel patterns throughout the state.
Plan Your Florida Spring Break Today
Ready to experience the Sunshine State during spring break 2026? Review your school or college calendar now, and start locking in travel deals and accommodations for prime weeks like March 14–21! Whether you want beaches, parks, or nature, Florida has something for everyone — so start planning early for the best experience.
Conclusion: Spring Break in Florida 2026
If you’ve been wondering when is spring break in Florida 2026, the answer depends on your school or college calendar — but patterns emerge:
- Most Florida public schools take spring break March 16–20, 2026.
- Many Florida colleges also schedule breaks around mid-March, though specific campuses start earlier or later.
- Travel peaks match those break weeks statewide, making March 14–21, 2026 an especially busy and exciting period.
Armed with these dates and planning tips, you’re ready to make the most of Florida’s vibrant spring break season — whether your priority is family time, beach fun, theme parks, or a blend of it all.
Confirm your specific spring break dates with your school district or university today, and start building your dream spring getaway!
