Our Stay at the Gaylord Palms Resort

Disclosure: This video was made during a hosted stay at the Gaylord Palms Resort. However, all opinions and exclamation points are 100% my own.

The Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee is one of my family’s favorite places for a staycation, and since the resort reopened earlier this year they have implemented a variety of new protocols and elevated practices in line with their high standards of cleanliness and excellent service.

Let’s take a look at what you can expect during your next stay at the resort!

Face Covering Policy

Per county ordinances, face coverings must be worn when you are in all public spaces.

However, face coverings are not required while eating or drinking in a restaurant, exercising in the fitness center, enjoying the pools or water attractions, or while seated in a socially-distanced pool chair (more on the pool chair in a moment).

Checking in at the Gaylord Palms Resort

Gaylord Palms Resort 2020 Room Tour

The check-in desks have some new additions as you would expect, but the resort is also encouraging guests to take advantage of the contactless service provided by the Marriott Bonvoy App that is free to download.

Gaylord Palms Resort 2020 Room Tour

With the Marriott Bonvoy app, you can check-in to your room, use your phone as a mobile key, and chat with associates for everything from room service to ordering amenities.

Travel with Confidence

Gaylord Palms Resort 2020 Room Tour

Throughout the resort you will see information and visual cues, such as social distancing markers, to help ensure the Gaylord Palms is a safe environment for your family to enjoy.

Also, you will notice the presence of the on-site custodial staff. The resort already has an existing rigorous cleaning protocol, and now it has been enhanced with a requirement that surfaces must be treated with hospital-grade disinfectants with an increased frequency.

Housekeeping Services

Gaylord Palms Resort 2020 Room Tour

When we arrived at our room, we found that it was as lovely as ever with the addition of hand sanitizer and an additional wipe.

It is important to note that the resort has implemented an “upon request only” housekeeping service and no STARS are permitted into guest rooms while a guest is present unless for emergency reasons.

Cypress Springs Water Park at the Gaylord Palms Resort

Summerfest at the Gaylord Palms 2020 -

The highlight of any visit to the Gaylord Palms for my family is spending time at the Cypress Springs Water Park!!!

But to allow guests to have a comfortable experience with proper social distancing they are limiting the pool’s capacity on a first-come-first-served basis.

This system also includes guidelines on the distribution of wrist bands to access the facilities:

  • Guests who have booked a guest room with two queen beds will receive four wristbands allowing access to the pools.
  • Guests who have booked a king guest room will receive two wristbands allowing access to the pools.
  • Guests who have booked a suite will receive five wristbands allowing access to the pools.

If the pool is as important to you as it is to our family, I would suggest upgrading to Premium Pool Seating.

Overall we had a fantastic stay at the Gaylord Palms Resort that was really no different than anything we have ever experienced at the resort!

The STARS were all welcoming and courteous, the food was awesome (try the totchos at Wrecker’s…you’ll thank me later), and we felt extremely comfortable and safe.

If you are considering a stay to experience Christmas at the Gaylord Palms, you won’t regret it!

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Gatorland Hosts Spooky Gator Night Shine

Gatorland Orlando Gator Night Shine photo

Visitors to Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World,” can see the park in a whole new way with Gator Night Shine any time of year, but it’s especially popular at Halloween time. 

Visitors follow a guide for a private small group tour, starting at dusk, following a guide deep into the alligator breeding marsh to see the glowing red eyes of hundreds of alligators, follow their splashes, and hear their bellows.  Each guest receives a flashlight and hot dogs to feed the alligators.

Visitors signing up for the 1 1/2 hour tour have the unique opportunity to see and hear Gatorland come alive after dark, with hundreds of wild birds and alligators all around them.  They even have an up-close encounter with their guide to see other exotic animals such as boa constrictors, baby alligators, tarantulas, and much more.

Gator Night Shine tickets are $24.99 per person, plus tax.  Tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance by calling (407) 855-5496, ext. 246 or emailing AdvenureTours@gatorland.com.

Gators Ghosts Goblins 2020 Gatorland Orlando

Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts and Goblins, Spooky Fun For Everyone day time event is still happening October 31 and November 1.

Come out in costume to this family-friendly Halloween event featuring Gatorland’s famous Social Distancing Skunk Ape, costumed character meet and greets, multiple photo opportunities, a trick or treat trail from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a Halloween themed train ride! 

You can also enjoy music and fun at Frank and Stein’s Octoberfest with German beer and food for purchase, a variety of specialty vendors, and additional animal encounters. 

All this fun and excitement is included with regular park admission, and right now Florida residents save half off single-day admissions! Children and adults can wear family-friendly costumes if they like.  Nothing scary or gory, please – Bubba and Cooter are easily spooked.

Gatorland Orlando Social Distancing Skunk On the Go in the Parks

You can find more information about what’s On the Go in the Parks by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram!

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On the Go in the Parks: October 23-25, 2020

 On the Go In the Parks

Guys…we are seriously just one week away from Halloween, so let’s really dive into the Halloween fun you can have as you are On the Go in the Parks…and beyond this weekend!

Let’s start by looking at some local fun you can have this weekend!

Get Lost in Mount Dora

On the Go In the Parks

Out at Long and Scott Farm, you can really have some fall fun down on the farm!

This is their 18th annual corn maze and pumpkin patch, and this year’s theme for the 6.5-acre corn maze is Farm to Table. You can also take a leap onto their huge jumping pillow, slide down a 60ft super slide, play on the giant castle-like playground. And if you aren’t ready to get lost in the big maze, try out the 0.5-acre mini maze for a shorter journey into the corn, get your fortune, and learn about the different types of farming.

And this Saturday from 6-10 pm you can do the night maze!

Just make sure to get your reservation in advance!

Kids Night out at the Orlando Science Center

On the Go In the Parks

The Orlando Science Center is hosting a spoopy Kids Night Out on Saturday, October 24th.

As the Orlando Science Center prepares to open the Pompeii exhibit, they are also inviting little ghosts and ghouls ages 5 to 12 to spend the evening haunting the exhibit halls, enjoying science activities with a spooky spin, and watching a live science show.

The event will take place from 6:30 to 10:30 pm, and kids are welcome to come in family-friendly costumes; no full-face Halloween masks are permitted, but appropriate face coverings over the nose and mouth are required.

Oktoberfest at the Swan and Dolphin Hotel

On the Go In the Parks

Get out those lederhosen and head over to the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort for their Oktoberfest evening!

During this all-you-care-to-eat and drink event, you will enjoy German-themed music, tastings, and a bevy of beers.

PLUS attendees will go home with a 6-pack of the resort exclusive Phins & Feathers beer.

Don’t forget that you still can take advantage of Magical Dining until October 31, 2020!!!

On the Go in the Parks: October 23-25, 2020

While there are a ton of new things happening every week in the City Beautiful, we can’t forget about the continuing Halloween and Fall Fun at the theme parks!

Fun Spot’s HUGE Halloween

Fun Spot America Huge Halloween

For the month of October Halloween is HUUUUUUGE at Fun Spot America!

Both the Orlando and Kissimmee locations will be offering free Trick or Treating for little ones from 4-7 pm on Saturdays, a menu of Frightul Bites, and your chance to help John, Jr. in an all-new Escape Room experience exclusive to the Fun Spot America Orlando Location.

LEGOLAND Florida

Halloween 2020
LOCK + LAND, Edward Linsmier for LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Brick or Treat continues this weekend at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort!

This October experience the spooky, kooky fun of one of the only kid-friendly Halloween Events in Central Florida that includes neighborhood-style Trick or Treating, seasonal shows, LEGO activities, and exclusive creepy-cool LEGO characters.

Brick or Treat, the ultimate kids Halloween celebration, is all included with regular admission to the park.

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort Halloween 2020

If you are missing Halloween Horror Nights, you are absolutely going to want to visit the Universal Orlando Resort to experience their Halloween offerings that are included with your theme park admission!

There are two heart-pounding haunted houses at Universal Studios Florida—Revenge of the Tooth Fairy and Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives—for guests to experience.

Universal Studios Florida has some spooky for all with a sweet payoff with their Scarecrow Stalk.

And don’t forget there is Trick or Treating at Islands of Adventure for little ones under 12.

And don’t forget that for the first time, everyone can come to the park in their costumes!!!

Busch Gardens Tampa 

Halloween 2020
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Howl-O-Scream has returned to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for its 21st year every Friday through Sunday through November 1, 2020, with physically distant frights and ghoulish delights.

The event features 10 Scare Zones and an outdoor venue for the popular Fiends show.

SeaWorld Orlando 

Halloween in the Parks Halloween 2020

SeaWorld Orlando is chocked full of Halloween and Fall goodness!!!

SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular is back with all-new safety procedures. The trick-or-treat trail is stocked with candy and adventure. Kids can enjoy not-so-spooky fun with their Sesame Street friends and join them for a special Halloween breakfast! The park is alive with amazing animals and thrilling coasters. It’s a tricky year for Halloween. Treat your family to fall at SeaWorld.

SeaWorld Spooktacular is on Saturdays and Sundays, through November 1, and is included in park admission.

It’s the perfect season for a spooky movie under the stars at SeaWorld, and Flicks and Frights is a drive-in nostalgic experience that starts with enjoying locally sourced food trucks and ends with watching a classic Halloween feature from the comfort and safety of your car.

This Saturday’s Family-friendly Halloween film is Casper, and the movie begins at 7:45 p.m.

Flicks and Frights parking is $40 per vehicle to experience movie viewing for all seated passengers and Pass Members can save 20%.

And finally, SeaWorld Orlando is serving up an incredible party for craft beer lovers. SeaWorld’s Craft Beer Festival features more than 100 crafts brews and more than 20 food items expertly paired to match your preferred brew.

The Festival takes place Fridays (3 pm to park close), Saturdays (11:30 am to park close), and Sundays (11:30 am to park close) through November 1, 2020.

Walt Disney World 

Halloween 2020
Kent Phillips, photographer

If you are looking for some Halloween fun, you will definitely want to check out the character cavalcade, special treats, and merchandise at the Magic Kingdom.

Looking for a fun foodie adventure around the world? the A Taste of Food and Wine Festival is happening at Epcot.

Then over at Disney Springs, you can find special Fall Treats around every corner!

You can find more information about what’s On the Go in the Parks by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram!

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Inside Look Weekends Returns to SeaWorld this Fall

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

At SeaWorld Orlando’s Inside Look Weekends, guests can go behind-the-scenes to hear and see firsthand what goes into providing world-class animal care from the experts who do it every day.

This special event features six unique, entirely behind-the-scenes locations, accessible in small groups to limit capacity and maintain safe physical distancing. 

New this year, guests can also attend an intimate socially distanced Trainer Talk with one of the park’s animal care specialists!

Guests are invited to visit three locations or trainer talks to earn an exclusive free Expert Explorer’s Pin.

Inside Look Weekends tours and trainer talks are available at each location at various times throughout the day.

The weekend event takes place Saturdays and Sundays, November 7-15, and is included with park admission.

Inside Look Weekends Trainer Talks

An all-new feature that is being launched for this year’s Inside Lookguests can join the park’s trainers to hear them share their passion for animal care and learn about training and husbandry techniques with the animals.

The Trainer Talks take place behind-the-scenes at locations throughout the park including 

Dolphin Days

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Join Trainers as they share their passion and demonstrate training and husbandry techniques with the park’s animals during this behind-the-scenes look at Dolphin Days.

Sea Lion High

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Laugh along with Trainers as they share their passion and demonstrate training and husbandry techniques with the park’s animals during this behind-the-scenes look at Sea Lion High.

Orca Encounter

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Join SeaWorld Orlando Trainers as they share their passion and demonstrate training and husbandry techniques with animals during this behind-the-scenes look at Orca Encounter. 

Inside Look Weekends Event Locations:

SeaWorld Rescue Center

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Visit the home base of the SeaWorld Rescue Team and meet and hear from the dedicated filtration experts, animal care personnel, lab technicians, and veterinarians who work around the clock to deliver life-saving care to animals in need.

Fish House

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Ever wonder how you prepare a feast for a pod of dolphins or an entrée for a hungry sea lion? Step inside SeaWorld Orlando’s Zoological Commissary to see how SeaWorld Orlando provides the best of diets for every fish, sea turtle, sea lion, penguin, and other marine animals in our care. This location is not ADA accessible.

Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Venture beyond the ice and snow of SeaWorld’s penguin habitat and learn what goes into caring for these beloved birds who hail from some of the coldest environments in the world. Explore exclusive views of the birds and learn how they are fed and cared for by animal care specialists.

Shark Encounter

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Get a topside view at Shark Encounter and unlock the mysteries of caring for the sharks and sawfish in SeaWorld’s 700,000-gallon shark habitat, visit the medical pool and learn how a shark receives its annual physical, observe the moving walkway used to temporarily divide the exhibit for cleaning, and understand how sharks are fed. Experience SeaWorld’s sharks from a vantage point that is very different from the guest view and hear directly from the aquarists who care for these fascinating creatures. This location is not ADA accessible.

Pacific Point Preserve

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Take a behind the scenes look at the home of the California sea lions and harbor seals. Hear stories and gain insight from the animal care specialists who care for these animals on a daily basis and learn what it takes to maintain a thriving sea lion social group.

Orca Encounter

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Visit the backside of Orca Encounter for exclusive access during this backstage opportunity. Meet and hear from the dedicated animal care specialists who safeguard the health and well-being of the killer whales in the park’s care, see where hundreds of pounds of fish are prepared each day in the fish breakout room, see the larger-than-life whale enrichment toys, visit their medical pool, and system of habitat pools to better understand the dynamics of caring for SeaWorld’s largest residents.

Additional Dining Options

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

For an even more exclusive experience, for two weekends only at Sharks Underwater Grill guests are invited to join us for a delicious meal and an underwater visit from a member of their aquarium team to learn about the fascinating world of sharks: https://seaworld.com/orlando/dining/sharks-underwater-grill.

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Guests can also dive into Orlando’s most immersive and memorable family dining experience at Dine with Orcas, where guests dine next to orcas, hear from animal care experts and watch the specialized care they receive daily: https://seaworld.com/orlando/dining/dine-with-orcas

Both restaurants include arranged seating layouts to accommodate physical distancing and limited capacity. Tables and chairs are sanitized with increased frequency, condiment and topping stations are closed, and guests with refillable products will be provided single-use alternatives. In lieu of traditional menus, single-use paper menus will be used, and buffet-style service areas have been adjusted or closed until further notice.

To learn more, visit: https://seaworld.com/orlando/events/inside-look/

Best Way to Play

For a limited time, buy a 2021 Fun Card and get the rest of 2020 FREE or upgrade to an Annual Pass starting as low as $11.50 per month with no down payment. Annual Pass Members* receive 12 months of visits, now with the best benefits ever such as FREE parking, up to 6 free guest tickets, Pass Member VIP Ride Nights, and up to 50% savings on merchandise, photo prints, Quick Queue, and more. The Fun Card gives park-goers unlimited access to the park to visit again and again for the remainder of 2020 calendar year and all of 2021 for one low price but does not include the additional pass benefits!  

Visit www.Seaworld.com/Orlando for more information, park hours and to purchase tickets.

Safety:​ 

SeaWorld Orlando is committed to the health and safety of their guests, employees, and the animals in their care.

The park has worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside consultants, and attraction industry leaders to enhance their already strict health, safety, and cleanliness standards.

These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19. SeaWorld Orlando is excited to continue to provide its guests with fun, inspiring, and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time.

For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the resort, including key operational changes, visit Seaworld.com/orlando/park-info/park-safety.

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Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2021

Today Walt Disney World announced that A Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will take place from January 8 to February 22, 2021!

Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts 2021

The Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts offers fun for the whole family, and here is a sketch of what you can expect when the event debuts in January:

  • Indulge in over 15 Food Studios serving culinary art all around World Showcase
  • Explore and purchase the brilliant and diverse work of Disney and other invited artists on display in marketplaces encircling World Showcase Lagoon
  • Step into the scene at special photo locations scattered around the park
  • Participate in a paint-by-number mural that serves as a collaborative art project for all
  • Watch as visiting artists create magic right before your eyes
  • Catch performances by favorite EPCOT musical artists Mariachi Cobre and the JAMMitors.
  • Join an artful scavenger hunt as you search for Figment around World Showcase
  • Shop for festival-exclusive merchandise
Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts 2021

And if you’re already looking forward to attending the festival, now is the perfect time to explore how you can complete your dream vacation at Walt Disney World Resort with a special offer for stays at Disney Resort hotels in early 2021. 

To find out more about this special Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts offer, check out the official Walt Disney World website for more details.

The Walt Disney World Resort is considering the importance of guest flexibility when planning any vacation right now and is going to continue to waive Disney-imposed change and cancellation fees up to the date of check-in for arrivals through April 30, 2021.

We are really excited about the debut of the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts in early 2021 and look forward to sharing more details as they become available!

Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts 2021

You can find more information about events around Orlando, theme park news, and insider tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram!

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Disney Paper Parks: Happy Haunts Part 1

Disney Paper Parks Halloween 2020

To help get everyone into the holiday spirit (see what I did there) the Disney Parks Blog is launching a new, four-part series of Disney Paper Parks inspired by Halloween and the Haunted Mansion!

These printable activity sheets will help Disney theme park fans bring a piece of the Disney Parks into their own homes, complete with instructions about how to create 3D versions of some of your favorite aspects of Disney Parks.

Today I am really stoked to share the part-one of the Disney Paper Parks series that includes Haunted Mansion home decorations!

Bring the macabre style of the Haunted Mansion into your home by printing out and crafting these spooky decorations that appeal to a variety of ages and skills. From the bats atop the queue stanchions to paper chains inspired by the Haunted Mansion’s wallpaper, the finishes will set the mood of the mansion in your home.

You also can use this release to transform your home with the spirits of the mansion using grinning ghosts shadow puppets!

Just as the Haunted Mansion is filled with illusions, the shadow puppets include rotating hand shadows, the Hitchhiking Ghosts, the Hatbox Ghost, and more (there’s always room for one more).

The Disney Paper Parks sheets were created for the Disney Parks Blog by talented Imagineers Stephanie Jazmines and Amy Young, and only require the use of scissors, glue, and folding along dotted lines in specific directions.

For best results, the Disney Parks Blog recommends printing the sheets at their actual size, not scaling them to fit the page. We also recommend adult participation or supervision for those with little ones to help make this great activity even more enjoyable.

Have fun and I can’t wait to share more Disney Paper Parks: Halloween Editionactivity sheets!

Note from the Disney Parks Blog Post: By downloading Disney Paper Parks, you acknowledge and agree that these materials are being provided to you for personal, non-commercial use.

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Raglan Road Celebrates 15th Anniversary

It is going to be a big party at Disney Springs when Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant celebrates its 15th anniversary on Wednesday, October 21st. 

Raglan Road Disney Springs Mighty St Patricks Day Festival Great Irish Hooley Raglan Road Disney Springs 2016

On that day Raglan Road will offer guests a bevy of food, beverage, and retail specials:

  • Select Entrees reduced to $15 to include Fish & Chips, Shepherd’s To Die For Pie, Bangin’ Bangers and Mighty Mash, and the OMG Burger
  • $15 15-year-old Irish Whiskey Flight
  • $15 Beer Flights for Two
  • 15% off Cooke’s of Dublin meals
  • 15% off Shop for Ireland retail purchases
Raglan Road Irish Pub Disney Springs

You can’t celebrate what’s to come without looking back at how it all started! 

The dining, shopping, and entertainment district Disney Springs was still called Downtown Disney in 2005 when the authentic Irish pub, owned and operated by Irish partners John Cooke and Paul Nolan, opened its doors offering a lively mix of authentic Irish entertainment, contemporary Irish cuisine, and a warm interior of aged walnut and mahogany woods from old Irish bars and churches was built in Ireland and shipped to Orlando.

Raglan Road Irish Pub Disney Springs

Now situated at The Landing at Disney Springs and having garnered multiple dining and entertainment awards through the years, Raglan Road features daily choreographed Irish stage shows by talented bands and an award-winning step-dance troupe. A dining destination for travelers and locals, Raglan Road last month earned Orlando magazine’s 2020 Reader’s Choice first-place Dining Award for Best Live Music Entertainment. The pub’s popular annual Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival and its Labor Day weekend boutique Irish music festival, the Great Irish Hooley, have welcomed many thousands of festival-goers each year.

Initially featuring lunch, dinner, and late-night pub grub, Raglan Road in 2013 introduced its Rollicking Raglan Brunch on Sundays, eventually expanding to Saturdays, as well. The popular weekend brunch last month also earned an Orlando magazine Reader’s Choice 2nd place Dining Award for Best Brunch. 

Raglan Road Irish Pub Disney Springs

A Traveler’s Choice award winner for consecutive years, Raglan Road in 2020 also earned the exclusive honor of placing in the top 10 percent of restaurants worldwide thanks to travelers’ reviews and ratings.

In addition to the pub’s modern Irish cuisine, the menu features a wide selection of craft beers and ales, hand-crafted cocktails, Irish coffee drinks, plus wine and bubbly, too. The Raglan Road children’s menu offers options for every young palate.

Raglan Road closed in mid-March due to pandemic-related restaurant shutdowns and reopened in June after incorporating a long list of safety measures throughout the restaurant. Guests can book socially-distanced tables for dinner and for the Rollicking Raglan Weekend Brunch. Drop-in guests may find distanced seating at one of the pub’s bars, in one of three dining rooms, or on the patio, but reservations are highly recommended.

Raglan Road Irish Pub Disney Springs

Currently, Raglan Road also features live entertainment nightly including a suite of shows featuring Irish bands and dancers. Guests also can enjoy shows beginning at noon during the weekend Rollicking Raglan Brunch.  Dinner is served from 4-11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday Brunch is served from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The pub’s Shop for Ireland boutique is open daily and packed with everything from cookbooks and kitchen wares to a wide selection of apparel, jewelry, flat caps, ball caps, and foodstuffs. Cooke’s of Dublin, the Irish quick-service restaurant adjacent to the pub, offers traditional favorites like Dublin-style fish & chips, burgers, and savory pies to carry out, eat in or devour at an outside table from noon to 10 p.m.

You can find more information about events around Orlando, theme park news, and insider tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram!

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Chef Mickey’s to Debut New Breakfast

Chef Mickey's Breakfast December 16

I am really excited that Mickey Mouse and his pals will be returning to breakfast at Chef Mickey’s restaurant in Disney’s Contemporary Resort on December 16, bringing some new items to the menu inspired by their favorite dishes. 

When Chef Mickey’s reopens the menu will feature traditional breakfast favorites as well as new dishes that are sure to be crowd-pleasers!

Chef Mickey's Breakfast December 16

First, guests will be able to try the new Mickey’s “Celebration” Pancake, featuring whipped cream, celebration sprinkles, shimmering pixie dust, and more.

Chef Mickey's Breakfast December 16

For something a bit more savory, you can choose to enjoy the new “Loaded” Potato-Cheese Casserole topped with smoked bacon crumbles and chives.

Chef Mickey's Breakfast December 16

Last but not least is Goofy’s Banana Bread French Toast that combines unique flavors of banana bread baked in zesty orange-scented French toast batter, Espresso-mascarpone cream, toasted bananas, and chocolate crumbles.

If you can’t decide on which new item to try, you’ll be able to taste all three as part of an all-you-care-to-enjoy family-style feast with other traditional breakfast favorites.

When Mickey and friends return, the experience may look a little different than the last time you visited, but you can still expect to smile, wave, and make unforgettable memories with some of your favorite characters as they parade through the restaurant in their chef’s best.

Reservations for Chef Mickey’s character breakfast will open on October 17, based on availability. In addition, Disney Resort hotel guests can make reservations up to 60 days in advance plus the length of their stay (up to 10 days). For more information, please click here.

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Food and Wine Classic: Limited Edition Tickets Available

Sip, Savor and Stay Saturdays Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel Fall 2020 September 2020 October 2020

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort has released the menu for the Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition on Friday, October 30.

The resort is also opening up this experience by offering guests
not staying at the resort a way to experience this intimate version of the annual popular event with individual event-only tickets available for two weekends.

Event-only tickets are available for Saturday, October 24, 2020, for $75 per person and Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition on Friday, October 30, 2020 for $110 per person.

Sip, Savor and Stay Saturdays Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel Fall 2020 September 2020 October 2020

The October 30 Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition menu will include:

  • Carved standing rib roast with roasted fingerling potatoes, mushroom, pearl onion, and red wine sauce from Shula’s Steak House
  • Sorghum glazed heritage pork collar with braised greens, white corn spoon bread, and caramelized brussels sprouts from Smokin D’s BBQ
  • Arkansas “BLT” with fried green tomato, double smoked bacon, iceberg lettuce, and pimento cheese from Cabana
  • Seared sustainable salmon with caramelized savoy cabbage, asparagus, and Dijon cream from Todd English’s bluezoo
  • Cocoa chitarra pasta with cauliflower alfredo sauce and parmesan cheese from Il Mulino
  • Chile Colorado Bowl with green chile braised duroc pork, steamed rice, pickled apple-cabbage slaw, and crispy chicharrones from Frida’s Kitchen
  • Dessert station from two-time world pastry champion Chef Laurent Branlard
  • More than 40 beer, wine & spirit offerings

If you want to find out more about my time at the Sip, Savor, and Stay Saturdays, you can check out the @onthegoinmco Instagram Story!

To book, call 407-934-1609 daily between 9 am – 4 pm.

It’s important to know that these events are limited to those 21 and older. 

For more information visit: www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.

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Mennello Museum Hosts Votes for Women Exhibit

Mennello Museum Votes for Women Logo

As the 100th year of the 19th amendment providing voting rights for women and the 59th Presidential Election approaches, the Mennello Museum is hosting Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence.

The crusade for women’s suffrage is one of the longest reform movements in American history. Between 1832 and 1920, women citizens organized for the right to vote, agitating first in their states or territories and then, simultaneously, through petitioning for a federal amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Mennello Museum Votes for Women
Equality Is the Sacred Law of Humanity, c. 1903–1915

Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery. This project received support from the Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative.

The Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative, Because of Her Story, is one of the country’s most ambitious undertakings to research, collect, document, display, and share the compelling story of women. It will deepen our understanding of women’s contributions to the nation and the world. More information about the initiative is available at womenshistory.si.edu.

Mennello Museum Votes for Women
Ida Bell Wells-Barnett by Mary Garrity

The poster exhibition addresses women’s political activism, explores the racism that challenged universal suffrage, and documents the ratification of the 19th Amendment which prohibits the government from denying U.S. citizens the right to vote on the basis of sex. It also touches upon the suffrage movement’s relevance to current conversations on voting and voting rights across America. 

The in-person, free exhibition of posters is featured on the Mennello Museum’s front porch beginning now through election day, November 3.

Visit them during museum hours, Tuesdays – Sundays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (weather permitting).

Mennello Museum Votes for Women
College Women Picketing in Front of the White House, 1917

Then visitors can continue their stroll through history and meet voting-rights heroes, as our neighbors at the Orlando Repertory theater present Eric Coble’s “Vote?,” a fully-produced online play streamed directly to you, now through November 8.  Stream Eric Coble’s “Vote?” here.

Also if you cannot make the trip out to the Mennello Museum, the virtual exhibition is also available online through November 2020.

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Festival of Trees Celebration Returns for the Holidays

34th Festival of Trees 2020 Orlando Museum of Arts

The Festival of Trees is back for its 34th year at the Orlando Museum of Art to bring joy to Central Florida with advanced tickets available now.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. November 12-29, with the exception of Mondays and Thanksgiving Day.

During this time, the Orlando Museum of Art will be transformed into a holiday wonderland filled with stunning décor and holiday cheer. This year’s theme is “Joy to the World—Celebrating a Season of Joy,” selected by the Council of 101 to focus on adding a little joy during the holiday season.

But while the fun will be what Central Floridians have come to expect from the beloved event, the Council of 101 has scaled down the event this year and made some changes to ensure a safe a fun event for all.

Tickets will be managed through reserved admissions due to limited capacity. Advanced ticket purchases are strongly encouraged. Onsite visitors will be asked to strictly adhere to social distancing guidelines. For those who can’t make it out, organizers have enhanced the virtual experiences, offering online tours of the festival, virtual events, and even the opportunity to purchase a tree online.

34th Festival of Trees 2020 Orlando Museum of Arts

“The Festival of Trees is a truly a favorite tradition here in Central Florida. It’s what really makes it feel like the holidays for so many people,” said Jill Toole, president of the Council of 101. “While some things will be different this year, we’re proud we could still bring the holiday spirit to our community, perhaps when we need it most.”

Onsite or online, guests can experience the decorated halls of the museum and enjoy more than 25 decked-out trees, exceptional gingerbread houses, pop up vendors, elegant Entertaining by Design table settings, performances by talented local entertainers, and special drawings throughout the event. Not to be missed are the Santa sightings on the weekend, and children can make their Christmas requests by writing letters.

The first weekend of the festival kicks off with Ugly Sweater Day on November 14, with dignitaries and special ambassador appearances anticipated for this fun-filled theme event.

The Council of 101 events, including the Festival of Trees, have raised over $12 million for the Orlando Museum of Art’s educational programs. Festival of Trees benefits lifelong learning programs at the Orlando Museum of Art. Reaching deep into the community, these programs support many people from different walks of life, age, and income groups.

34th Annual Festival of Trees General Admission:

  • Thursday, November 12- Sunday, November 29 (Excluding Mondays and Thanksgiving Day)
  • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Don’t miss your chance to relish in the holiday season. Tickets are available at Councilof101.org or by calling 407-896-4231 ext.254. Tickets will be managed through reserved admissions as the museum is operating at limited capacity. Advanced ticket purchase is encouraged. Onsite visitors will be directed to strictly adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Ticket Prices for 34th Annual Festival of Trees:

  • Adults $15
  • Children (3-11) $7
  • Seniors (65+) $12
  • Military Personnel & First Responders (with valid ID) $12

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Councilof101.org or call 407-896-4231 ext.254

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Central Florida Zoo’s Zoo Boo Bash 2020

Central Florida Zoo Zoo Boo Bash 2020

There are typically some pretty WILD sights at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, but this October, it’s going to be downright spooky during Zoo Boo Bash!

Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls of all kinds will gear up to celebrate Halloween safely at the fan-favorite Zoo Boo Bash, presented by Orlando Health.

This year, the event will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on select dates, Oct. 17-18 and Oct. 24-25. Zoo Boo Bash is the perfect way for children and families to safely show off those Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat while enjoying the fun of the Zoo.

The Zoo will have plenty of not-so-scary decorations and activities, including trick-or-treat stations in a designated area to ensure social distancing. Costumes are encouraged for all guests and face masks or coverings are required for guests over the age of 13—an easy requirement for many costumes!

Dino Ferri, CEO of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, said they are thrilled to be able to host the event this year.

“At Central Florida Zoo, we’ve always prided ourselves on creating a safe, fun, and educational environment for families,” Ferri said. “With the help of our ongoing partner Orlando Health, we have implemented necessary precautions to hold our wildly popular Halloween event while protecting the health and safety of our guests.”

There will be enhanced safety measures at this year’s event, including limited capacity and date-specific, timed entry. Timed tickets will also be required for trick-or-treating. Annual passholder blackout dates apply; however, tickets to the event are $5 per person named on the passcard.

“Zoo Boo Bash has become an annual tradition for so many families throughout Central Florida and we’re proud to be the presenting sponsor once again,” said Shawn Molsberger, president, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital. “The pandemic has changed how we interact but we want our community to know there are ways to come together safely to have a little fun.”

Guests can purchase tickets online at www.centralfloridazoo.org/zooboo for guaranteed admission.

For more information, visit www.centralfloridazoo.org.

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On the Go in the Parks: October 9-11, 2020

On the Go In the Parks October 9 to 11 2020

The Halloween fun continues in and around Orlando as you are On the Go in the Parks from October 9-11, 2020.

New This Weekend:

Gators Ghosts Goblins 2020 Gatorland Orlando

Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts and Goblins (weekends October 10 – November 1): A family-friendly event where Oktoberfest collides with Halloween fun featuring spooky areas like the “Graveyard of the Darned,” a live polka band with German beer and food available for purchase; costumed character meet and greets; a trick-or-treat trail; a spooky train ride scavenger hunt, and more. Family-friendly costumes for adults and kids are encouraged.

On the Go in the Parks: October 9-11, 2020

While there are a ton of new things happening every week in the City Beautiful, we can’t forget about the continuing Halloween and Fall Fun at the theme parks!

Fun Spot’s HUGE Halloween

For the month of October Halloween is HUUUUUUGE at Fun Spot America!

Both the Orlando and Kissimmee locations will be offering free Trick or Treating for little ones from 4-7 pm on Saturdays, a menu of Frightul Bites, and your chance to help John, Jr. in an all-new Escape Room experience exclusive to the Fun Spot America Orlando Location.

LEGOLAND Florida

Brick or Treat continues this weekend at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort!

This October experience the spooky, kooky fun of one of the only kid-friendly Halloween Events in Central Florida that includes neighborhood-style Trick or Treating, seasonal shows, LEGO activities, and exclusive creepy-cool LEGO characters.

Brick or Treat, the ultimate kids Halloween celebration, is all included with regular admission to the park.

Universal Orlando Resort

If you are missing Halloween Horror Nights, you are absolutely going to want to visit the Universal Orlando Resort to experience their Halloween offerings that are included with your theme park admission!

There are two heart-pounding haunted houses at Universal Studios Florida—Revenge of the Tooth Fairy and Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives—for guests to experience.

Universal Studios Florida has some spooky for all with a sweet payoff with their Scarecrow Stalk.

And don’t forget there is Trick or Treating at Islands of Adventure for little ones under 12.

And don’t forget that for the first time, everyone can come to the park in their costumes!!!

Busch Gardens Tampa 

Howl-O-Scream has returned to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for its 21st year every Friday through Sunday through November 1, 2020 with physically distant frights and ghoulish delights.

The event features 10 Scare Zones and an outdoor venue for the popular Fiends show.

SeaWorld Orlando 

SeaWorld Orlando is chocked full of Halloween and Fall goodness!!!

SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular is back with all-new safety procedures. The trick-or-treat trail is stocked with candy and adventure. Kids can enjoy not-so-spooky fun with their Sesame Street friends and join them for a special Halloween breakfast! The park is alive with amazing animals and thrilling coasters. It’s a tricky year for Halloween. Treat your family to fall at SeaWorld.

SeaWorld Spooktacular is on Saturdays and Sundays, through November 1, and is included in park admission.

It’s the perfect season for a spooky movie under the stars at SeaWorld, and Flicks and Frights is a drive-in nostalgic experience that starts with enjoying locally sourced food trucks and ends with watching a classic Halloween feature from the comfort and safety of your car.

This Saturday’s Family-friendly Halloween film is Beetlejuice, and the movie begins at 7:45 p.m.

Flicks and Frights parking is $40 per vehicle to experience movie viewing for all seated passengers and Pass Members can save 20% .

And finally, SeaWorld Orlando is serving up an incredible party for craft beer lovers. SeaWorld’s Craft Beer Festival features more than 100 crafts brews and more than 20 food items expertly paired to match your preferred brew.

The Festival takes place Fridays (3 pm to park close), Saturdays (11:30 am to park close), and Sundays (11:30 am to park close) through November 1, 2020.

Walt Disney World 

If you are looking for some Halloween fun, you will definitely want to check out the character cavalcade, special treats, and merchandise at the Magic Kingdom.

Looking for a fun foodie adventure around the world? the A Taste of Food and Wine Festival is happening at Epcot.

Then over at Disney Springs, you can find special Fall Treats around every corner!

You can find more information about events around Orlando, theme park news, and insider tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram!

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Gatorland Orlando Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins 2020

Gators Ghosts Goblins 2020 Gatorland Orlando

Gatorland Orlando, the “Alligator Capital of the World”, is bringing back its Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins, Spooky Fun For Everyone family-friendly event again for 2020! The all-ages daytime Halloween event takes place weekends from Oct. 10 through November 1.

Come out in costume to this family-friendly Halloween event featuring Gatorland’s famous Social Distancing Skunk Ape, costumed character meet and greets, multiple photo opportunities, a trick or treat trail from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a spooky train ride! 

Enjoy music and fun at Frank and Stein’s Octoberfest, from an “undead” polka band as well as German beer and food for purchase!

And there’s even more, including costume contests, a variety of specialty vendors, games, and giveaways.  All this fun and excitement is included with your regular park admission! 

Gatorland Orlando “Gators, Ghosts and Goblins takes place October 10 and 11, 17 and 18, 24 and 25, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. 

Children and adults can wear family-friendly costumes if they like.  Nothing scary or gory, please – Bubba and Cooter are easily spooked.

For additional information and to purchase tickets, call (407) 855-5496 or visit: www.Gatorland.com.

“We are beyond excited to give our guests a way to celebrate Halloween safely,” said Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland.  “Our team has been working very hard to bring our Halloween event back.  And of course, our very own Social Distancing Skunk Ape makes things fun and safe for everyone.”

Face masks are required per Orange County Executive Order #2020-23 regarding COVID 19 and must be visible at all times.  Please check our updated in park safety procedures at https://www.gatorland.com/plan-your-visit/re-opening-safety/

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Aloma Bowl Hosts Halloween Trunk or Treat

Aloma Halloween Trunk or Treat

Put on your spookiest costume and head to Aloma Bowl this Halloween for an afternoon full of themed drinks for both big and little monsters, delicious food, contests and prizes. If you’re looking for a fun and safe way to kick off your trick-or-treating this year, Aloma Bowl is the place to be!

Aloma Bowl is hosting a trunk-or-treat on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 1 to 3 p.m. Cars will be decked out with decorations, full of tasty treats and lined up for your trick-or-treating pleasure.

This is a free event, so gather up the whole family and enjoy an unforgettable, spook-tacular afternoon! The trunk or treat will take place in Aloma Bowl’s parking lot, located at 2530 Aloma Ave. Winter Park, Fl 32792.

The fun isn’t just for the trick-or-treaters – there’s a special prize in store for the best trunk. One lucky winner will receive $100 cash and two hours of bowling plus shoes for up to five guests.

All trunk participants must register prior to the event. For details, rules and to sign up, please contact us at 407-671-8675 or Jennifer.alomabowl@gmail.com.

While at the event, don’t forget to capture the memories at Aloma Bowl’s Share the Scare! Haunted Selfie Station. Snap selfies in front of this fun Halloween-themed photo op and use a free spooky Snapchat filter or Facebook frame to dress them up

Aloma Bowl has been serving the Winter Park community for over 40 years. In addition to this Halloween event, the center offers Karaoke every Friday night and weekly bowling specials. Aloma Bowl features 32 bowling lanes, an arcade, billiards tables and the Brooklyn South Bar & Grill, a full-service bar and restaurant.

For more information about Aloma Bowl, visit www.alomabowlfun.com.

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