January 2021 - On the Go in MCO

On the Go in the Parks: January 29-31, 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino on WDBO tonight at 6:38pm ET to hear about these and other fun things going on around Central Florida!

You will absolutely want to take advantage of the beautiful weather as you are On the Go this weekend!!!

Let’s take a look at what you can experience!

On the Go this Weekend in the Parks: January 29-31, 2021

Sesame Street Weekend 2021 SeaWorld Orlando

Celebrate Elmo’s birthday at SeaWorld Orlando from January 30 through February 3rd with meet and greets, a family-friendly DJ, photo opportunities with Sesame Street friends, and much more!

Located in Sesame Street Land and included with park admission, this celebration features updated safety precautions including limited capacity and physical distancing.

Epcot Festival of the Arts

The Taste of Epcot International Festival of Arts at Walt Disney World Resort continues to draw guests into the arts daily until February 22, 2021.

While this year’s global celebration of the visual, culinary, and performing arts may look a little different, guests will still be able to enjoy a wide selection of activities for the entire family that is included in their admission to the park.

Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Mardi Gras 2021 On the Go in the Parks January 2021

Let the Good Times Roll with Busch Gardens Mardi Gras through February 16.

This year, join the fun every weekend to celebrate safely with an expanded Mardi Gras event! Enjoy more weekends all the way through “Fat Tuesday” with open-air festivities and French-Quarter flair.

Get jazzed up with Mardi Gras-style live music and New Orleans-inspired entertainment.
Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and get caught up in the fun as you dance through spacious walkways.
Feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay.
Tempt your taste buds with a signature shrimp po’boy, hearty jambalaya and gumbo, or specialty sweets like iconic beignets.
Handcrafted cocktail classics like Hurricanes join new signature drinks for a perfect pairing with the park’s carefully crafted culinary offering.

Theme Park Deals You Won’t Want to Miss!!!

SeaWorld Orlando Preschool Card

SeaWorld Orlando Sign On the Go in the Parks January 2021

SeaWorld Orlando is a fantastic theme park for kids, and now pint-sized guests can enjoy an ocean of experiences with the free 2021 Preschool Card, available now for a limited time.

Florida children under the age of 5 can enroll in the 2021 Preschool Card which grants them free admission for a year full of fun and safe theme park experiences at SeaWorld Orlando in a spacious outdoor environment with limited capacity and enhanced health and safety protocols.

Universal Orlando Deals

On the Go in the Parks January 2021 Universal Orlando Resort

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

The current special offers include:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.
Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.
Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

Gatorland Deal

Instagram Post - On the Go In the Parks January 2021

THIS IS THE LAST CALL!!!!

Florida Residents can visit Gatorland Orlando for just $9.99 for single-day admission until January 31st.

Tickets must be purchased at the admission’s gate with a valid Florida ID.

On the Go with Gail: A Visit to Mount Dora

I have always loved Mount Dora, it’s such a quaint little town not too far from Orlando, about a 30-45 minute drive from the Disney area.

Founded in 1880, Mount Dora is known for its quaint southern charm, it has many stores including antique stalls and local craft shops where you can find unique gifts for anyone and everyone!

If you have ever wondered why it’s called Mount Dora with no actual mountains in sight, the Mount part reflects the fact that the town is on a plateau 184 feet above sea level. The more you know!

Normally we come over to go visit the shops and try the restaurants, you really can’t go wrong with any of them here. You can grab Italian, Indian, American, British, Cuban, French, the list goes on! I have tried most of them and multiple times. They also have some really unique coffee shops and ice cream stores that are worth trying out.

This time, we just came to wander around outside and enjoy the peaceful town. We love to go for a walk by the lake, Lake Dora is so beautiful, whether you are by the lighthouse or the docks, the views, especially at sunset are spectacular! If you have time, they offer a lot of boat tour options down at The Rusty Anchor (Golden Girls Fans will smile at that name!). I have not done one myself but would love to do a sunset boat tour one evening so I will have to come back for that soon.

I was pleasantly surprised to see they still had their Christmas tree on display, as I hadn’t had a chance to make it over there for the Christmas season yet. My daughter loves Christmas Trees, so we were really happy they had theirs up still.

We found out that they still had their Christmas lights up around the town too, and that they usually do until the beginning of February. So this meant that, of course, we had to come back and see the lights as we hadn’t done that yet either.

Most of the lights were centered around Donnelly Park, where most of the trees were draped in lights and they even had a Santa in his sleigh pulled by his reindeers.

I love the fact they still had their decorations up, plus it was super quiet so we were able to just wander around admiring them! Mount Dora is one of my favorite places locally, we normally like to visit Renningers Antique Center on a weekend then head over. It makes a nice day trip that way as they have the antiques on one side and a flea market on the other.

You can always come to visit during one of their many outdoor festivals too, you can check out their calendar for upcoming events by visiting https://www.mountdora.com

Jurassic Quest Comes to Orlando

Jurassic Quest Orange County Convention Center 2021

Jurassic Quest is rolling into Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center on International Drive for a unique, hour-long drive-through experience any dino lover would enjoy January 29, 2021, through February 7, 2021.

Jurassic Quest is North America’s largest and most realistic Dinosaur event, with more than 70 life-size animatronic dinosaurs from the Cretaceous, Jurassic, and Triassic periods in realistic scenes.

The displays were created in collaboration with leading paleontologists, and each dinosaur has been created to be as accurate as possible.

These popular dinosaurs are returning from extinction for a socially-distanced adventure around the Orange County Convention Center’s extensive parking area and outdoor spaces.

Jurassic Quest Safety

The Jurassic Quest Drive-thru experience is an in-car experience with limited contact, if any, with staff who wear masks, social distance, and follow all state and local guidelines regarding health and safety.
Guests are guided by an engaging and informative digital audio tour featuring show entertainers, and dino wranglers.
A strict 5mph speed limit is strictly enforced throughout the experience.
All Jurassic Quest equipment and workstations undergo regular sanitization throughout the show.

Drive-thru tickets are $49 per vehicle, and all attendees receive a free, safari-style family photo in their vehicles set against a dinosaur backdrop as a memento of their experience.

Jurassic Quest Hours of Operation

January 29: 11am-8pm
January 30: 9am-9pm
January 31: 9am-8pm
February 1: Closed
February 2: Closed
February 3: 1pm-8pm
February 4: 1pm-8pm
February 5: 9am-8pm
February 6: 9am-9pm
Feb 7: 9am-8pm

You can purchase your tickets with confidence with the Jurassic Quest Ticket Guarantee that protects you if your Jurassic Quest event is canceled for any reason by automatically refunding 100% of the full ticket purchase amount to the credit card used during the original purchase.

Tickets for Jurassic Quest must be purchased online in advance, and various add-ons, including dinosaur surprises and activity packs, are available.

2021 ICON Park Sip n’ Savor

The 3rd Annual Sip n’ Savor at ICON Park event, Presented by Truly Hard Seltzer, is taking place from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 30, is your chance to sample dishes from select ICON PARK restaurants.

Whether you’re a foodie aficionado, Instagram star or simply looking for a delectable bite, there will be something for you. Best of all, there’s no admission fee to this event.

Throughout the event, guests can enjoy entertainment on The Lawn, mouthwatering food samples of select tenants’ famous dishes, and cold beverages from The Lawn Bar. All guests who purchase food options at participating restaurant locations will receive a special discount to ride The Wheel for 50 percent off during event hours.

“The annual Sip n’ Savor event has been a favorite among locals and visitors for years,” said Chris Jaskiewicz, ICON Park president and CEO. “ICON Park is proud to show off our restaurant tenants at this special event for the third year in a row and we’re thankful to Truly® Hard Seltzer for partnering with us this year. From sweet to salty to savory, we know guests will be able to find dishes to satisfy any craving!”

ICON Park is home to a wide array of delicious and interactive dining options, so no matter who’s in your party, you’re sure to find options for everyone.

2021 Sip n’ Savor Restaurants Include:

Tapa Toro Spanish Restaurant
Blake Shelton’s Ole Red Restaurant
Tin Roof: A Live Music Joint
Outback Steakhouse
Sugar Factory

“ICON Park is open-air and gate free, making it the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy a scenic view. It’s easy to access from anywhere in Central Florida and there’s free on-site parking,” said Jaskiewicz. “Events like Sip n’ Savor are the perfect excuse to come out and explore the new Orlando Entertainment District.”

To learn more about ICON Park 2021 Sip n’ Savor, visithttps://iconparkorlando.com.

On the Go this Weekend in the Parks: January 22-24

On the Go In the Parks January 22 24 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino on WDBO tonight at 6:38pm ET to hear about these and other fun things going on around Central Florida!

You will absolutely want to take advantage of the warmer temperatures as you are On the Go this weekend!!! I am so excited about the beautiful weather heading our way!!!

Let’s take a look at what you can experience!

On the Go this Weekend in the Parks: January 22-24, 2021

Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando

Sesame Street Weekend 2021 SeaWorld Orlando On the Go in the Parks January 2021

Join everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends Elmo, Cookie Monster, Rosita, and all your favorite furry friends for a fun-filled weekend with activities, character photo opportunities, and much more.

Located in Sesame Street Land and included with park admission, this family-friendly celebration features updated safety precautions including limited capacity and physical distancing.

Epcot Festival of the Arts

The Taste of Epcot International Festival of Arts at Walt Disney World Resort continues to draw guests into the arts daily until February 22, 2021.

Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Let the Good Times Roll with Busch Gardens Mardi Gras – Jan. 16 through Feb. 16.

Get jazzed up with Mardi Gras-style live music and New Orleans-inspired entertainment.
Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and get caught up in the fun as you dance through spacious walkways.
Feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay.
Tempt your taste buds with a signature shrimp po’ boy, hearty jambalaya and gumbo, or specialty sweets like iconic beignets.
Handcrafted cocktail classics like Hurricanes join new signature drinks for a perfect pairing with the park’s carefully crafted culinary offering.

Theme Park Deals You Won’t Want to Miss!!!

SeaWorld Orlando Preschool Card

SeaWorld Orlando is a fantastic theme park for kids, and now pint-sized guests can enjoy an ocean of experiences with the free 2021 Preschool Card, available now for a limited time.

Universal Orlando Deals

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

The current special offers include:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.
Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.
Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

Gatorland Deal

Florida Residents can visit Gatorland Orlando for just $9.99 for single-day admission, now through January 31st.

Tickets must be purchased at the admission’s gate with a valid Florida ID.

This rare discount won’t be around long.

SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Preschool Card

SeaWorld Orlando Welcome Harbour Vertical

SeaWorld Orlando is a fantastic theme park for kids, and now pint-sized guests can enjoy an ocean of experiences with the free 2021 Preschool Card, available now for a limited time.

Kids are also in for a very special treat with the launch of two fan-favorite events to kick off the year with Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend on January 23-24 and Elmo’s Birthday Celebration from January 30 to February 3!

Families can experience these events plus all of the park’s kid-friendly annual events with unique features like specialty beverages for tots at the Seven Seas Food Festival, kids dance parties at Electric Ocean, trick-or-treating and meeting spooky-fun characters at Halloween Spooktacular, photos with Santa, and millions of twinkling lights at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, and more, with the 2021 Preschool Card.

SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Preschool Card Details

Here are a few things that you need to know about the SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Preschool Card:

To be eligible for the FREE Preschool Card for unlimited visits to SeaWorld through December 31, 2021, kids must be ages 5 and younger.
Advance registration must be completed online and is only valid for children ages 5 or younger at the time of redemption at the park.
Registration is required by February 3, 2021
First visit ticket redemption must occur by February 28, 2021.

To learn more and to register for the Preschool Card, Florida residents can visit this page to complete the online registration.

Don’t forget you can keep up with theme park news around Orlando by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

On the Go this Weekend: January 22-24, 2021

With temperatures warming up this weekend, I am sharing ways that you can be On the Go this weekend around the City Beautiful with some fun outdoor events!

On the Go this Weekend: January 22-24

Portillos Food Truck Visits Town

On the Go this weekend January 2021 Portillos Beef Bus — Make sure to follow @beefbusofficial on Instagram for updates!

Portillo’s is bringing their Chicago-style hot dogs, famous Italian beef sandwiches, char-grilled burgers, and homemade chocolate cake to Lake Buena Vista on March 2nd…But…

If you can’t wait that long, you can grab a friend and head to Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL, 32801, this weekend (and through January 30th) to check out the Portillo’s Official Beef Bus’ menu, while supplies last!

January 22- Dinner 3 pm-8 pm
January 23- Dinner 3 pm-8 pm
January 24- Lunch 11 am-4 pm
January 27- Lunch 11 am-4 pm
January 28- Lunch 11 am- 4 pm
January 29-Dinner 3 pm-8 pm
January 30-Dinner 3 pm-8 pm

Dinosaurs have invaded the Leu Gardens

On the Go this weekend January 2021 Dinosaurs Leu Gardens

Dinosaurs have invaded the Leu Gardens once again, and you are invited to explore the Jurassic Gardens to find some of the most feared creatures on the planet.

This fun installation features over 20 life-size dinosaurs ranging in size from 14 inches to a massive 33 ft. Daspletosaurus, cousin to the T-Rex.

Admission to the Dinosaur Invasion exhibit is included with daytime garden admission which can be purchased at the Welcome Center:

$10 adult
$5 child (ages 4- 17 years)
Free admission for Leu Members and children 3 years of age and younger.

Dr. Phillips Frontyard Festival is Frozen

Dr Phillips Center Front Yard Festival - view

The Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival – the six-month celebration of live, outdoor entertainment, and unique experiences in a socially distant environment – is continuing their Disney Movie Night Series with ‘Frozen’ this Sunday night at 6 pm.

Tickets for your own socially distant private box that seat up to 5 people are only $5 and $10, depending on location.

Don’t forget you can find even more events if you are On the Go in MCO and keep up with theme park news around Orlando by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Southern Hill Farms Strawberry Picking

If you have ever been to Southern Hill Farms, you know they have different events and pick your own fruit events throughout the different seasons. Right now, its strawberry picking season! If you have never been to the farm, now is the time, there is no fruit better than freshly picked!

The farm is on roughly 120 acres of land, and depending which way you come in, the entrance is a long clay road. There is plenty of parking available, and for the strawberry picking, you do not have to pay to park like during other events there where they have more going on.

When you first enter Southern Hill Farms there is an employee letting you know how everything works and giving you directions to the strawberry field and the barn. The barn is where you can go up to the air stream they have parked, and purchase their drinks and donuts that are made right there on the farm, and yes right now there are strawberry donuts and drinks to enjoy! They also have their market open, the eatery and beer shed.

They also have a play area for the children to play and plenty of photo opportunities with signs and the ones you put your head through the holes to become different characters like snowmen and such. They actually just announced on their Instagram page, which I will link below, that they will be opening their kids zone back up for the season on weekends. There will be a festival swing, jump pillows, a giant slide, obstacle course, sports game and farm wagon rides available in one all-inclusive wrist band for purchase.

On approaching the strawberry fields, you walk up to the check-in desk where the employee there lets you know how it all works and hands you their box. She told us which side the farm has been using and which sides have more fruit so you can start there. They ask that you pull the strawberry with one hand while holding the vine with the other to protect pulling the plant out of its delicate row.

The field was pretty large and as you can see, so it’s very easy to social distance from other groups. There are signs that ask that you wear a mask where social distancing isn’t possible, like at the entrance and exit. Most complied with that, we just kept ours on the whole time it was easier and luckily a nice cool day when we went.

Once you have picked your row, if you bend down slightly you can see the fruit better to know where to start. I recommend pushing the leafs aside slightly as that was where the bigger riper strawberries were hiding. There were some quite large ones ready to pick when we went too.

We took our daughter with us, and being a toddler I wasn’t sure if she would want to join in but she loved scanning the plants for them. Once we pointed one out she did really well pulling them off while we held the stem. This was the first time strawberry picking for all of us, and now I am wondering why we waited so long, hopefully we can keep coming so she can continue to make these memories.

Once you are ready to leave you head over to the exit for weighing and they do take cash or credit, this part was all outside too which was helpful. We didn’t fill the whole box but had a good single layer which was close to a pound in weight. Once we got home we washed them and honestly, I don’t want to ever buy grocery store strawberries ever again, they were so sweet and fresh! It was almost like they had sugar on, they were that sweet! I cannot recommend this activity enough!

You can check their website out or their Instagram page, as that is where they will update you on when they run out of ripe fruit to pick and update you once they are open again. They open only on certain days so check their schedule to plan your trip.

The Southern Hill Farms website is http://southernhillfarms.com and their Instagram handle is @southernhillfarms and you can also check them out on Facebook for live updates.

Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando

Sunny Days are ahead this weekend at SeaWorld Orlando as they celebrate Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend on January 23 and 24, 2021!

Located in Sesame Street Land and included with park admission, this family-friendly celebration features updated safety precautions including limited capacity and physical distancing.

SeaWorld Orlando Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend Line-Up of Fun

All New! Storytime on Sesame Street

Ready for a special story with your Sesame Street friends? Their story time float will appear several times a day, so keep an eye out and find a physically distanced spot to listen.

All New! Everyday Hero Badges

During the event, guests will also have the chance to celebrate Everyday Heroes during the event, so bring your kindness and caring along.

No cape required!

Guests will have the opportunity to earn special badges for things like Bravery, Helping, Manners, and more all weekend, so get ready to join the Everyday Heroes Club!

All New! Oscar’s Trash Art Activity

Oscar would be proud! In this activity, kids get to turn everyday materials that may seem like trash into beautiful works of art, which is sure to make any grouch happy!

All New! Elmo’s Birthday Storytime

Elmo has a very special story to tell for his upcoming birthday, and he wants you to be there! Be sure to watch for his float throughout the day and find a physically distanced spot to listen nearby.

All New! Scavenger Hunt

There’s plenty of space around Sesame Street Land for Elmo’s goldfish, Dorothy, to hide. Have fun trying to find her in this kid-friendly scavenger hunt!

Photo Opportunities

It’s Elmo’s birthday celebration, and the present he wants most of all is a special (and physically distanced) photo with you.

DJ Dance Party

Join your favorite Sesame Street friends for a fun-filled, DJ dance party with physical distancing, at select times.

Upgrade the Day with Breakfast with Elmo and Friends

Both Elmo’s Birthday Celebration and Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend offer an upgraded dining experience, Breakfast with Elmo and Friends, which features a delicious and nutritious breakfast buffet and morning greetings from everyone’s favorite furry friends.

This breakfast is a fun-filled and physically distant outdoor experience sure to delight kids and parents alike! Breakfast is served at 10:30 am on event Saturdays and Sundays.

Prices start at $32.99 for adults and $16.99 for children for breakfast and advanced reservations are required. Pass Member discounts apply.

Also, mark your calendars for…

Elmo’s Birthday Celebration: January 30-February 3

Celebrate Elmo’s birthday with meet and greets, a family-friendly DJ, photo opportunities with Sesame Street friends, and much more!

Located in Sesame Street Land and included with park admission, this celebration features updated safety precautions including limited capacity and physical distancing.

Irish Coffee Day Monday at Raglan Road

Irish Coffee Day Monday Raglan Road Disney Springs

Over at Disney Springs Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant is going to celebrate National Irish Coffee Day Monday on January 25th, with a special guest offer for the pub’s traditional Irish Coffee: “You buy the coffee, the whiskey is on us!”

Raglan Road general manager Alan Delahunt invites guests to raise a glass to the national holiday that’s sure to be a wake-up call.

“It’s good to see Irish coffee getting the recognition it deserves,” Delahunt says. “It’s a great drink any time of day, and if whiskey and coffee get their own national days, Irish coffee should have its day in the sun, too.”

At Raglan Road, the traditional Irish coffee promo gives caffeine and whiskey fans something to tap their toes about as they enjoy the pub’s live Irish music and dance. The Traditional Irish coffee special offer is a finely-tuned mix of coffee, whiskey, sugar, and cream.

Other coffee-based cocktails are on the menu daily: the Bush-Tail Nitro is a cold-pressed Foxtail brew on draft infused with brown sugar syrup and Bushmills Irish whiskey topped with cream.

The Iced Irish features Baileys Salted Caramel with iced coffee, butterscotch schnapps, and Paddy’s Irish Whiskey topped with whipped cream.

The Bailey’s Shake is a frozen mix of ice cream, Baileys Irish Cream, and coffee liqueur.

“In Ireland, the Irish coffee is definitely a staple,” Delahunt says. “So we are ‘delira and excira’ to have an opportunity to celebrate this fantastic libation and to share our promotion of a traditional Irish staple with our guests. Alex Levine put it best when he said, ‘Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four essential food groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and fat.’”

On the Go this Weekend in the Parks: January 15-17, 2021

January is an absolutely wonderful time to be On the Go in the Parks because the weather is lovely and the crowds are traditionally lower!

This weekend the theme parks of Central Florida begin celebrating Mardi Gras, serve up some fantastic foods, immerse families in the arts, and take guests behind the scenes!

Let’s take a look at what you can experience!

On the Go this Weekend in the Parks: January 15-17, 2021

Food and Wine Classic: A Taste of the Swan and Dolphin Resort

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

The Food and Wine Classic: A Taste of Swan and Dolphin is taking place at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort on January 16, 2021, from 5:30-8:00 p.m., with each event offering 10 food stations from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and more than 50 beverage offerings.

The event features live entertainment and unlimited food and beverage tastings, including dessert selections from the hotel’s world champion pastry chef, Laurent Branlard.

Event-only tickets can be purchased online at SwanDolphinFoodAndWineClassic.com for $110 per person.

Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Let the Good Times Roll with Busch Gardens Mardi Gras – Jan. 16 through Feb. 16.

Get jazzed up with Mardi Gras-style live music and New Orleans-inspired entertainment.
Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and get caught up in the fun as you dance through spacious walkways.
Feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay.
Tempt your taste buds with a signature shrimp po’ boy, hearty jambalaya and gumbo, or specialty sweets like iconic beignets.
Handcrafted cocktail classics like Hurricanes join new signature drinks for a perfect pairing with the park’s carefully crafted culinary offering.

Epcot Festival of the Arts

The Taste of Epcot International Festival of Arts at Walt Disney World Resort continues to draw guests into the arts daily until February 22, 2021.

SeaWorld Orlando Inside Look Weekends

Inside Look Weekends SeaWorld Orlando January 20021

This is your last weekend in January to go behind-the-scenes at SeaWorld Orlando to experience the popular Inside Look Weekends.

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

Universal Orlando Deals

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

The current special offers include:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.
Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.
Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

Gatorland Deal

On the Go this Weekend: January 15-17, 2021

Heading into the long weekend here in the City Beautiful there is no shortage of fun things to do!

On the Go this Weekend: January 15-17

Museum of Illusions at ICON Park

Museum of Illusions Orlando ICON Park — Photo: Museum of Illusions Orlando

The Museum of Illusions Orlando, a mind-bending “edutainment” experience where guests enter the fascinating world of mental deception, is now open at ICON Park on International Drive.

With over 50 intriguing exhibits, the Museum of Illusions offers more eye-fooling fun under one roof than any other destination in Central Florida.

And until January 31, Orlando residents and visitors can enjoy special “preview days” pricing for $15 per person of any age, a $10 savings off full-price, regular adult admission. Children two and under are free.

Food and Wine Classic: A Taste of the Swan and Dolphin Resort

The event features live entertainment and unlimited food and beverage tastings, including dessert selections from the hotel’s world champion pastry chef, Laurent Branlard.

Event-only tickets can be purchased online at SwanDolphinFoodAndWineClassic.com for $110 per person.

Weekends at the Winery

Lakeridge Winery is buzzing with activity weekends in early 2021 with Weekends at the Winery!

You’ll want to grab a blanket and a chair to enjoy Lakeridge Winery’s
expansive vineyard green, delicious food from some of the area’s best live entertainment, food trucks, and of course your favorite Lakeridge wines by the glass at our outdoor bar.

This weekend’s food vendors, in addition to the food available at the Winery, are Carte Blanche and Maitland Chocolate Factory, and outdoor entertainment will feature David Julia.

Lakeridge Winery Weekends at the Winery hours are from noon to 4:00 pm each day.

Don’t forget you can find even more events if you are On the Go in MCO and keep up with theme park news around Orlando by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2021

This year the Universal Orlando Resort will let the good times roll during the Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval featuring authentic cuisine inspired by the most iconic Carnaval festivities across the globe.

This first-ever, dynamic celebration of flavor and entertainment will take place daily at Universal Studios Florida from Saturday, February 6 through Sunday, March 28.

Guests will enjoy an eclectic global food fest with more than 70 delectable dishes and beverages from 13 locations around the globe.

Plus, Universal Studios Florida will be decked out in vibrant décor and guests will have the first-ever opportunity to get up close with spectacular and intricately-detailed Mardi Gras floats stationed throughout the theme park.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras Cher Lloyd

They will also enjoy a Big Easy bash in the streets with energetic dancers and stilt performers in extraordinary costumes, brass band musicians, countless beads and a newly-themed Mardi Gras Tribute Store stocked with new merchandise that will give guests the perfect look for this epic celebration.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Beignets — Universal Orlando Resort

This culinary journey will feature iconic Cajun fare and traditional Carnaval flavors from across the globe, including:

Fan-favorite Cajun cuisine from New Orleans, such as a Crawfish Boil, Jambalaya, Beignets, and other Big Easy delights.
Classic Carnaval dishes from the islands, such as Pernil & Mofongo from Puerto Rico, a vegan Pholourie from Trinidad and Tobago, and Jerk Chicken from the Bahamas.
Pork Schnitzel Sliders and Bavarian Pretzels from Germany, iconic Paella Mixta and Leche Frita from Spain and Belgium Liege Waffles from Belgium.
Other famous flavors from Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Italy, France, and more!

And that is just a sampling of what Universal Orlando’s culinary team has created for this year’s epic celebration of savory delights.

There will also be Carnaval-themed menu options at Universal CityWalk and at the Universal Orlando Resort hotels.

Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios Florida Mardi Gras 2020 Food Guide

The excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass.

To learn more about Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.

Special Universal Orlando Resort Special Offers

Guests can take advantage of special offers to enjoy the celebration and all Universal Orlando’s incredible experiences.

Right now, any guests who purchase a 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass will receive three extra months free to enjoy all that Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure have to offer. Blockout dates apply on select passes.

Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket and receive three extra days free to experience both parks.

Guests can also take advantage of a special offer to save up to $200 on 4-day tickets for a family of four. For more information and to book these offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

With exclusive theme park benefits available to hotel guests, staying in one of Universal Orlando’s hotels is the best way to make the most of a vacation to the award-winning theme park destination.

Currently, Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $94 per night, plus tax at the all-new value property Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites. Passholders save even more with exclusive nightly rates as low as $89 per night, plus tax, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $116 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.

For more information about these offers and other hotel options, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/hotels.

LEGOLAND Florida Announces Thrilling February Events

LEGOLAND will kick off a stunt-stacked weekend on Friday, February 12 as world-renowned daredevil Nik Wallenda will walk across a high wire five stories above park guests to celebrate the debut of LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s all-new Brickbeard’s Watersports Stunt Show and PirateFest Weekends.

In true pirate-fashion, Wallenda will “walk the plank” 60 feet in the air from inside the Theme Park to the new LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel to kick off the Resort’s first-ever pirate invasion!

Park and hotel guests are invited to take part in the fun by watching this nail-biting stunt safely from the ground.

This one-time-only event will be no “walk in the park” for the Wallenda Team as they will construct a high wire longer than 500 feet for the walk. They will also work closely with LEGOLAND Master Model Builders to craft LEGO^® bricks onto Wallenda’s 28-foot balance pole.

This daring demonstration is the first event in a year-long celebration for the Park’s 10th birthday. From the skies to the seas, the stunts keep coming with the all-new show and event!

NEW! Brickbeard’s Watersports Stunt Show

Launching February 12, this epic new show features gravity-defying stunts, choreographed to an original score of “punk pirate” tunes and a never-before-seen, new LEGO character.

Named by LEGOLAND Florida’s social media fans and co-developed with LEGO masterminds, the cunning and fierce female pirate, “Calico Jade,” joins fan-favorite Captain Brickbeard as he whips his crew of new recruits into shape through a series of thrilling stunts on the seas. World-class wakeboarding, barefoot skiing, jump acts and an all-new flyboard act take this high-energy show to heroic heights above the legendary Lake Eloise.

With the all-new Brickbeard’s Watersports Stunt Show weighing anchor, the Theme Park will be overtaken by the famous pirate’s feisty friends, for its first ever PirateFest Weekends!

NEW! PirateFest Weekends

Debuting February 12, PirateFest Weekends will run for three consecutive weeks, through February 28.

Crafty crews can play like pirates with three new LEGO character meet and greets.

An all-new musical show will take over the LEGO City Stage, and specialty food will feed even the hungriest buccaneers.

NEW! LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel

The party continues long after the Park closes when families stay onsite at the all-new LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel.

Located just 130-kid steps away from the front gate, this adventure-packed hotel is the ultimate family destination for a long weekend or vacation, and every stay at Pirate Island Hotel includes a free family-style breakfast, nightly pirate fun, and in-room treasure hunts.

These can’t-miss events, along with all our upcoming 10^th birthday party moments, are included with general admission.

The Awesomer Annual Passes grants you unlimited admission to the Theme Park and Water Park with no blockout dates for less than $13/month. For more information, visit LEGOLANDFlorida.com.

2021 EPCOT Festival of the Arts – Disney Songbook Performance

2021 Epcot Festival of the Arts Entrance

The 2021 Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is happening daily at the Walt Disney World Resort until February 22, 2021.

What makes this festival so awesome is that it brings together the visual, culinary, and performing arts in a magical way…that is included with your theme park admission.

One of the 2021 Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts highlights is the performances on the America Gardens Theatre stage in the American Adventure Pavilion of EPCOT’s World Showcase.

New for 2021 is the Disney Songbook performed by the iconic Voices of Liberty!

This 15-minute show happens throughout the afternoon on Fridays and Saturdays and features several fan-favorite songs from Disney movies that celebrate the artistry of Disney composers and lyricists.

While the Voices of Liberty have performed songs from Disney movies and attractions before, this performance at the 2021 Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts features a wider variety of songs including:

“Be Our Guest” from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
“Touch the Sky” from Pixar’s Brave
“You’ll Be in my Heart” from Disney’s Tarzan
A Moana medley including “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome”
“When You Wish Upon a Star” from Pinocchio

If you are interested in attending a performance of the Disney Songbook by the Voices of Liberty, I encourage you to arrive early as the show is incredibly popular and seating is limited in the America Gardens Theatre.

All this week I will be sharing more information, videos, and pictures from EPCOT so make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook!