Franco’s Flop Fest returns to Baldwin Park for 5th year

By Jim Carchidi

September 8, 2026

Baldwin Park will mark another year at the center of the belly-flopping universe with the return of Franco’s Flop Fest on Sunday, Sept. 20 at noon.

The party is presented by Cholo Dogs and Florida Citrus Sports with the competition pool set up outside Tactical Brewing Co. at 4882 New Broad St. The event began in 2022 with about 20 contestants and less than 700 spectators. As many as 40 belly floppers now perform for a crowd of over 2,000. Vendors, food trucks, and a DJ round out the block party vibe that lasts beyond the final flop.

Rules and fees

Franco's Flop Fest has become a celebration of creativity and community with a growing fan base. Images courtesy of Franco's Flop Fest

The event is free to watch and registration is $35 per competitor. Aspiring champions can still sign up for a chance at eternal glory and costumes are encouraged. The deadline for check-ins and registration fees is 1 p.m. on the day of the event and contestants are required to sign a waiver. Additional rules are as follows:

• All competitors must be at least 18 years of age.
• No diving.
• Jumping is only permitted from the platform. No jumping from objects that increase height.
• Contestants must be sober to compete.
• In the event of a tie, there will be a championship flop.

Scoring and prizes

Costumes can earn extra points and offer protection from the sting of a strong flop.

Judging is scored on a scale of 1-10 and based on five categories:

• Creativity
• Sound
• Splash
• Impact
• Showmanship

Aside from a year’s worth of bragging rights, the winner is awarded the Franco’s Flop Fest trophy and a t-shirt. All contestants get a free beer.

When to arrive

Vendors open at noon and the contest runs from 1:30-3 p.m. The party lasts until around 5 p.m. For more information, log onto francosflopfest.com.

Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.

About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.

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