Rock the Universe Returns in 2022

Rock the Universe 2022

Get ready to rock, ride and rejoice – Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe is back! Fans and youth groups can once again come together at Florida’s biggest Christian music festival to enjoy gripping performances by some of Christian music’s top artists, powerful worship experiences, and thrilling theme park attractions during an unforgettable weekend of faith and fun at Universal Studios Florida, from January 28-30.

The rocking weekend kicks off Friday night with feature performances by GRAMMY award-winning Christian pop duo, for KING & COUNTRY, Dove award-winning contemporary Christian artist, Matthew West, and more. The good times continue Saturday night with performances by GRAMMY award-winning contemporary Christian rock band, Casting Crowns, multiple GRAMMY award-winning Christian rock artist, Zach Williams, Dove award-winning contemporary Christian band, Big Daddy Weave, and more. For the full weekend lineup, visit www.RocktheUniverse.com.

Beyond the main stage performances, Rock the Universe attendees can enjoy worship experiences throughout the weekend – including a Saturday ceremony with a special message and a moving musical performance, a powerful Sunday morning worship service to wrap up the faith-filled weekend, plus a dedicated FanZone presented by Coca-Cola, featuring live performances from up-and-coming acts.

Event Tickets and Vacation Packages are Now on Sale!
Tickets to Florida’s biggest Christian music festival include admission to stellar performances and exclusive access to popular Universal Studios attractions during event hours. And this year, guests can take advantage of admission to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure with a 2-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket, starting at $129.99, plus tax.

At the heart of the event, Rock the Universe supports youth group ministries and offers special pricing, exclusive vacation packages, benefits, and opportunities for groups of 10 people or more.

Starting at $195 per person at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites or Surfside Inn and Suites, a Rock Your Weekend Group Getaway vacation package includes a 2-night hotel stay, a 2-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket, and a souvenir photo. Groups who stay at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels will receive exclusive perks, such as Early Park Admission with valid theme park admission, complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal’s theme parks and Universal CityWalk, and more.

To purchase Rock the Universe tickets and vacation packages, visit www.RocktheUniverse.com.

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Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic Menus Revealed

Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin has revealed the menu for the return of the annual fall Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic, taking place outside on the resort’s causeway Friday, October 29, and Saturday, October 30.

The much-anticipated event features dishes including returning festival favorites as well as inventive new items from the resort’s award-winning food and beverage team.

Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic
Beer Garden – Kentuckyaki Chicken Wings

Notable new dishes on the 2021 Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic menu include:

  • Grilled Mahi Mahi with Tuscan kale, toasted fregola sarda and Spanish caper sauce from the resort’s new tower, the Swan Reserve
  • Croquetas: fried smoked ham & cheese dumpling with cilantro crema from Frieda’s Kitchen
  • Brandade black pepper agnolotti with wilted sweet onion, eggplant, tomato petals, crispy pancetta and nduja vinaigrette from Il Mulino
  • Bourbon Apples: caramelized apples, bourbon vanilla ice cream, caramel whipped ganache, almond pound cake, honey granola crumble from the Swan and Dolphin pastry team
Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic
Pig & Poke – Earth Baked Kalua Pork

Returning Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic favorites include:

  • Roasted Linz heritage black angus beef tenderloin with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots and hollandaise sauce from Shula’s Steak House
  • Vegetarian rice bowl with roasted organic vegetables, seasoned sushi rice, curry sauce and tempura crunch from Cabana
  • Dragon Sushi Roll from Kimonos
  • Traditional Earth-baked kalua pork at The Pig & The Poke
  • Yu Chen’s Shanghai dumpling at Chinatown
  • Poutine with Yukon gold fries, house gravy and cheddar cheese curds from the Beer Garden
Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic
Shulas – Angus Beef Tenderloin

The event will take place outdoors and employ appropriate safety measures in accordance with Center for Disease Control recommendations and Walt Disney World policies at the time of the event. 

The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic offers guests unlimited tastings at more than 20 food stations featuring culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and more than 100 beverages amidst a festive backdrop of live entertainment on the hotel’s scenic causeway.

With a variety of restaurants and lounges and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program. The resort boasts numerous certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections.

For the latest information about the event or to book event tickets, guests can visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com.

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On the Go in the Parks: September 10-12, 2021

On the Go in the Parks September 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News on WDBO tonight at 6:38 pm ET to hear about what you can enjoy as you are On the Go in the Parks!

If you are On the Go in the Parks, you will notice that spooky season is kicking into high gear and I am HERE for it!!!!!

On the Go in the Parks: September 10-12, 2021

Howl-O-Scream @ SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando Howl O Scream 2021

A new terror has surfaced, and there’s nowhere to hide. Howl-O-Scream has washed ashore at SeaWorld Orlando, and this time, the fear is everywhere.

Evade angry haunts as they rampage through scare zones. Seek shelter indoors, only to find you’ve entered a house of horrors. Deepen the thrill with a nighttime coaster ride. Quench your thirst for fear at a fiendishly interactive bar. Feel the monstrous electricity of a live show.

Above all, try to resist the haunting song of the one who has emerged from the lake. Evil is calling—with a howl and a scream.

Howl-O-Scream @ Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Tampa’s premier Halloween event returns earlier than ever for 28 killer nights with scare zones and haunted houses, including THREE ALL-NEW haunted house experiences.

Fear returns to its most immersive form with the return of iconic horror-filled haunted houses to terrify guests at Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream, Tampa Bay’s BIGGEST haunt event. Park guests will find nowhere to hide as zombies, deranged clowns, werewolves, and new surprises stalk their prey throughout eight scare zones, and unpredictable roaming hordes lurk in the darkness.

Beyond the haunts, killer entertainment can be found on stage with “Fiends!” returning to the Festival Field and last year’s best-kept-secret “The Rolling Bones” performing electrifying rock covers at Dragon Fire Grill. 

Halloween Horror Nights
HHN 30 Full Lineup On the Go in the Parks

Halloween Horror Nights has returned to the Universal Studios Resort Orlando daring guests and celebrating 30 years of fear on select nights through October 31.

For its highly-anticipated return, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is unleashing a legion of horror legends, pop culture greats, and haunting original stories – many from the event’s esteemed history – in 10 disturbingly realistic haunted houses, five nightmarish scare zones, and outrageous live entertainment, with diabolical surprises lurking around every corner…

Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event you won’t want to miss. This is my #1 Halloween event in Central Florida!!!!!

Visit Orlando Magical Dining
Visit Orlando Magical Dining

Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is back to showcase some of Orlando’s best cuisine while supporting local restaurants and charities from August 27 to October 3.

During this year’s Foodie dream, more than 80 of Orlando’s fine dining restaurants will offer a $37 three-course, prix-fixe dinner menu.

On the Go in the Parks, you can find Magical Dining goodness at:

Universal Orlando Resort

  • Amatista Cookhouse – Loess Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Resort
  • The Kitchen – Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
  • Mama Della’s Ristorante – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort
  • Islands Dining Room – Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Resort

Walt Disney World Resort Area

  • Il Mulino New York Trattoria – Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
  • Todd English’s Bluezoo – Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
  • Terralina Crafted Italian – Disney Springs
  • Paddlefish – Disney Springs
  • Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill – Disney Springs
  • Jaleo – Disney Springs
  • Deep Blu Seafood Grille – Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
  • La Luce – Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
  • The Venetian Chop House – Caribe Royale

Reservations are encouraged, and when you arrive at the dining location make sure to ask for the Magical Dining Menu as you are seated.

Halloween Horror Night Tribute Store

Halloween Horror Nights is returning next weekend, but you can get hyped with the Tribute Store that is now open at Universal Studios Florida!

Disney After Hours Boo Bash
Disney After Hours Boo Bash 2021

This weekend’s Disney After Hours Boo Bash Dates:

  • Friday, September 10, 2021
  • Sunday, September 12, 2021

Disney’s After Hours Boo Bash is a special ticketed event that takes place at the Magic Kingdom on select nights until October 31, 2021, and like any new event, and I am sharing what you should know before you go to make the most of your Halloween fun!

SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival
SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Craft Beer Festival

The SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival is returning with more than 100 crafts brews, wines, seltzers, and cocktails Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays, until October 31st.

Guests can sample an unbeatable mix of domestic and local Florida favorites, plus savor more than 20 food items expertly paired to match their preferred brew.

And to top it all off, festive entertainment will keep the party going all day long. This is the one craft beer celebration guests won’t want to miss. 

Busch Gardens Bier Fest
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Bierfest 2020 Howl-O-Scream Halloween

During the fourth year of Bier Fest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, guests can sip seasonal beverage offerings and savor new recipes featuring fan-favorite breweries.

Beer flows through the park on an all-new beer trail, weaving between iconic coasters, local live music, and fascinating animal habitats while incorporating fan-favorite restaurants and outdoor culinary stations, including the new Giraffe Bar.

This year, park guests can toast to new adventures each Friday through Sunday until October 31.

Food and Wine Festival is underway at Walt Disney World 
Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2021 Pinterest On the Go in the Parks

The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is underway at Walt Disney World with delicious dishes, fun for families, and entertainment for the entire family until November 20th!

The festival celebrates the best of food and drink with more than 20 festival-exclusive global marketplaces open now and even more coming in the fall!

In addition to all the classics and fan favorites, there are SEVEN new marketplaces:

  • The Noodle Exchange (Near Traveler’s Café)
  • Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina
  • The Rotunda Bistro (American Adventure Rotunda)
  • The Swanky Saucy Swine (Near Disney Traders)
  • Brew-Wing at the EPCOT Experience
  • Lobster Landing (Near Mission: SPACE) – Opening Oct. 1
  • Mac & Eats (Near Mission: SPACE) – Opening Oct. 1

Don’t forget to see EPCOT Forever fireworks at the close of every day!

Theme Park Reservation & Mask Policies

Walt Disney World

  • Walt Disney World has updated their mask policy for guests ages 2 and up

– Masks are required regardless of vaccination status
– Masks must be worn while indoors
– Masks must be worn on Disney buses, monorails, and Disney Skyliner
– The new policy includes attractions & their queues
– Masks remain optional in outdoor common areas

  • Walt Disney World has opened up more Park Pass availability for summer visits to the park. So while you still need a reservation to enter the parks, it is now easier to snag one.

SeaWorld Orlando

  • In accordance with updated guidance from the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) and the recommendations of local officials, face coverings are recommended to be worn in designated, indoor spaces regardless of the vaccination status of SeaWorld Orlando guests and employees.
  • The CDC has indicated that fully vaccinated people can be in outdoor areas without the need for a face covering.
  • The CDC still recommends that people get fully vaccinated and that unvaccinated people use preventative measures such as face coverings and social distancing.
  • For special interactions with certain animals, unvaccinated people will be required to wear a face covering.
  • SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica are both no longer requiring reservations…if you are planning on going to Aquatica during the weekend GET THERE EARLY as parking is running out before noon each day!

Universal Orlando

  • The Universal Orlando Resort encourages all guests to follow CDC guidelines and local directives to wear face coverings while indoors across Universal Orlando Resort.
  • Face coverings are optional while outdoors.
  • All guests are ecouraged to keep a safe distance between travel parties.
  • Universal Orlando Resort hasn’t required reservations, but you’ll want to keep an eye one their official twitter – @UniversalORL – for any capacity or operational updates
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and more by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube
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Dr. Phillips Center Announces Updated Safety Protocols

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Courtesy of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

In an effort to create the safest environment for guests, artists, students, and colleagues, the Dr. Phillips Center has announced that it is enacting a new policy.

Effective Friday, October 1, 2021, for all indoor shows and events, face coverings are required for guests—as well as documentation showing a negative COVID-19 test. Instead of a negative test result, guests can provide documentation showing their full vaccination status.

These new policies will not apply to events at Frontyard Festival™, presented by AdventHealth—which will continue to offer live, outdoor entertainment through mid-December 2021.

Guests 12+ years old are required to provide documentation of a recent negative COVID-19 PCR test result conducted within 72 hours before the show—or a negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test result conducted within 48 hours before the show’s start time. The test result can be presented either printed or digital, and must clearly reflect the name of the guest, the date of the test, the type of test performed, and the negative test result.

As an alternative, vaccinated guests can show documentation of their full vaccination status with the final dose at least 14 days before the show date. Acceptable documentation includes the original vaccination card, a printed copy of the vaccination card, or a digital copy. Photo ID must also be shown, either for the test result or vaccination status.

Guests 2+ years old are required to wear a suitable face covering that covers the nose, mouth, and chin while inside the arts center. 

If an existing ticket holder is unable to comply with these updated policies, they can contact the Bill & Mary Darden Box Office at the Dr. Phillips Center for a full refund. For tickets purchased through resale or third-party sites, ticket holders should contact those sites directly to determine their refund policies. 

The Dr. Phillips Center has helped lead the community—and arts centers across the country—in creating a safe, healthy environment for guests and artists. As an innovative response to the pandemic, the arts center launched its outdoor Frontyard Festival in December 2020 to lift the community, stay relevant, bring people back to work and stay in business.

The arts center continues to monitor the situation and follow health and safety guidelines developed with AdventHealth—as well as with guidance from public health officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For the most up-to-date health and safety guidelines, visit drphillipscenter.org.

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Hang Ten All Year at Adventure Island

Adventure Island Hang 10 Bar table

Adventure Island announces the previously seasonal waterpark will now stay open all year round with new heaters to provide that endless summer vibe.

From relaxing in tropical pools and the lazy river to braving thrilling water slides, guests can enjoy comfortable water temperatures any time of year.

Just in time to celebrate, the new Hang Ten Tiki Bar officially opens this Friday, September 10th, with an all-new menu of tropical delights.

As the waterpark’s first full-service bar, the laid-back vibes of Hang Ten Tiki Bar offer an all-new wave of refreshment to guests as they splash between thrilling slides and relaxing waterways. With hand-crafted signature cocktails, fan-favorite local brews, and a regional and international rum selection, Hang Ten Tiki Bar is the perfect island chill spot. Hang Ten also features multiple TVs so sports fans can tune in and cheer for their favorite teams when taking a break from the park’s thrilling water slides and wave pool.   Guests can enjoy this new tropical oasis as they sip and savor seasonal small bites to fuel up for all-day fun.

With surf-style bar seating overlooking white sand beaches, the Hang Ten Tiki Bar features a mixologist-curated selection of signature drinks and island-inspired light bites that guests can only get at Adventure Island. These unique offerings will include:

  • Sparkling cocktails on draft including the refreshing Beach Bum Mojito, The Hang Ten classic daquiri with an island twist, Surfin’ Strawberry Margarita, and Mahalo Mule, all served in a souvenir tiki cup
  • What’s a tiki bar without frozen cocktails? Guest can enjoy the Island Lava Flow or Caribbean Corkscrew frozen specialty cocktails, or even get a non-alcoholic version the whole family can enjoy.
  • Hang Ten features an impressive selection of more than 20 international and local Florida-distilled rums.
Adventure Island Hang 10 Bar
  • Sip a surf-themed rum or beer flight: The “Shortboard Flight” features a unique selection of international or local Florida rums, or beer lovers can try the “Longboard Flight” with local craft brews.
  • New Island light bites include a Tiki Man soft pretzel, empanadas and local gulf smoked fish dip with a pineapple relish.
  • Non-alcoholic beverages are available for all ages, including refreshing juices which can be served in a souvenir tiki cup.

ANNUAL PASS OFFERS UNLIMITED VISITS AND UNBEATABLE BENEFITS!

Adventure Island is launching another incredible year for Pass Members as the BEST VALUE annual theme park passes in Florida with amazing benefits ranging from no blockout dates, up to six free guest tickets, and access to NEW exclusive ride preview events.

Adventure Island shows appreciation and love to our Annual Pass Members, now open year-round, with extra rewards every month for continuous tropical fun in the Florida sun.

The Annual Pass is organized in easy-to-use tiers, and includes one-park, two-park Busch Gardens, and Adventure Island Pass, and the popular Florida four-park options, allowing guests to choose the pass, benefits, and the parks that are the best fit.

Additional benefits include FREE parking, special savings on cabanas, culinary options, and ride quick queue among other perks. Waterpark Passes for Florida Residents start at an affordable $9.25 a month, plus tax, with no down payment required. For a full overview of the Annual Pass lineup click here: http://adventureisland.com/annual-pass/  

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Morimoto Asia’s Fourth Annual Ramen Rumble

Ramen Rumble

Get ready to (Ramen) Rumble! Back by popular demand, Morimoto Asia is proud to host this year’s fourth annual Ramen Rumble in partnership with event founders, Jason & Sue Chin of Seito Sushi (Good Salt Restaurant Group) on Tuesday, September 28 with two sessions from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Six of Orlando’s best and brightest chefs will compete for the championship title, bragging rights, the coveted “Broth Belt” trophy, and a sizable check to donate to charity partner, Give Kids the World.

Each contestant will man their own soup station, presenting their unique style of ramen filled with creative toppings and interesting textures for guests to sample and vote on in order to crown the next Ramen King or Queen of Central Florida.

Participating Restaurants

Morimoto Asia
Seito Sushi
Susuru
Ichicoro Ramen
Ramen Takagi
Yugiri Ramen Project

Tickets are $80++ per person and include six steaming bowls of tasty ramen with Sun Noodles (one bowl from each chef’s entry), one beverage, and a Japanese mochi donut, a traditional Asian dessert provided by dochi.

Want to take the Rumble to the next level? Private Dining Rooms are available! Each private dining room will hold six guests. The price is $475 plus tax and gratutity per room and each person in the room must also purchase a ticket. You’ll want to contact OrlandoEvents@patinagroup.com for more information.

A cash bar will also be open and souvenir t-shirts will be for sale.

In keeping with the current Disney safety guidelines, masks will be required upon entry for all attendees. Guests can also expect assigned seating. Those who would like to be seated with another attendee or party can email the restaurant to fulfill their request.

Grab your ticket today to slurp up the best ramen in town while watching Orlando’s culinary masterminds battle it out for ultimate noodle glory!

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Night of a Million Lights Holiday Lights Returns this November

Give Kids the World Village - Night of a Million Lights Tunnel

This holiday season Give Kids the World Village will once again be home to an amazing dancing lights show, tram tours, unique behind-the-scenes experiences, and an array of exciting additions guaranteed to make this year’s second annual Night of a Million Lights holiday lights spectacular another dazzling success. 

Scheduled to illuminate the Central Florida skyline from Friday, November 12, 2021 through Sunday, January 2, 2022, Night of a Million Lights will once again provide the public with a rare glimpse inside Give Kids The World Village, an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families with magical weeklong wish vacations at no cost.

Tickets are on sale now at www.gktw.org/lights, enabling guests to immerse themselves in an exquisitely decorated fairytale neighborhood which wish families call home during their stays.  Guests can explore a sparkling tree trail; view larger-than-life holiday displays; take photos at one-of-a-kind step-in frames and backdrops; and enjoy a guided storytelling tour of 100 magnificently lit villas from the comfort of a tram, included in the price of the ticket.  The event will run from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, with staggered entry times to prevent crowding.

Give Kids the World Village - Night of a Million Lights Tunnel

What began as an inventive pandemic pivot for Give Kids The World has evolved into Central Florida’s most beloved new holiday tradition.  More than 92,000 guests attended Night of a Million Lights in 2020, named #1 on USA Today’s list of the “Best Things To Do in December in Orlando.”  With the return of wish families to the Village, this year’s event promises to be brighter and more festive than ever, while preserving the privacy and comfort of wish families during their visits.

“Children with critical illnesses face countless appointments, treatments and hospital stays, and they are often told “no” due to the limitations of their illness.  We feel privileged to give wish children and their families a week of “yes” where they can forget their worries, experience joy, and spend precious time together,” said Give Kids The World President and CEO Pamela Landwirth.  “We look forward to once again sharing some holiday joy with the community while raising the funds that will enable us to continue creating the happiness that inspires hope for these precious families.”

This year’s Night of a Million Lights enhancements will include a 360-degree dancing lights show encompassing 21 fully programmed buildings set to music, with six three-minute holiday vignettes playing each hour. 

In addition, a holiday marketplace will offer upgraded food and beverage experiences, festive holiday merchandise, and an opportunity for children to meet Santa in his elaborately designed Florida home. 

Also new this year, guests can make their visits extra special by purchasing one of a variety of VIP packages, ranging from behind-the-scenes guided tours and premium dessert parties to special events and exclusive balcony experiences – providing a stunning setting for marriage proposals, vow renewals, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and other special moments.  Discounts are available for groups of 25 guests or more.  To inquire about group discounts and special events, please contact events@gktw.org.

Give Kids the World Village - Night of a Million Lights Tunnel

Proceeds from Night of a Million Lights will support Give Kids The World, rated Four Stars by Charity Navigator 15 years in a row.  When wish-granting organizations receive a request from a critically ill child who wants to visit Central Florida, Give Kids The World fulfills the wish – providing each child and his/her family with an all-inclusive stay that includes transportation; accommodations in one of the Village’s 166 storybook residential villas; all meals and snacks; donated theme park tickets; nightly entertainment; daily gifts; and priceless interactive experiences at the Village, featuring accessible rides and attractions.  Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 176,000 families from all 50 states and more than 76 countries. 

Give Kids The World Village is located at 210 South Bass Road in Kissimmee.

To learn more, visit www.gktw.org.

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On the Go in the Parks: September 3-5, 2021

On the Go in the Parks September 3-5 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News on WDBO tonight at 6:38 pm ET to hear about what you can enjoy as you are On the Go in the Parks!

Being on the Go in the Parks has been a ride this week full of new announcements at Walt Disney World, fan favorites returning to Disney Springs, and the return of Halloween Horror Nights at the Universal Orlando Resort.

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party!
©Disney, ©Disney/Pixar

Before we dive into the parks, I would be remiss if I didn’t remind you that Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party will be bringing its magic to Orlando’s Amway Center September 3-5, 2021! You can find out more information about the show here.

With so much to go over, what are we waiting for????

On the Go in the Parks: September 3-5, 2021

Halloween Horror Nights
HHN 30 Full Lineup On the Go in the Parks

Halloween Horror Nights has returned to the Universal Studios Resort Orlando daring guests and celebrating 30 years of fear on select nights through October 31.

For its highly-anticipated return, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is unleashing a legion of horror legends, pop culture greats, and haunting original stories – many from the event’s esteemed history – in 10 disturbingly realistic haunted houses, five nightmarish scare zones, and outrageous live entertainment, with diabolical surprises lurking around every corner…

Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event you won’t want to miss. This is my #1 Halloween event in Central Florida!!!!!

Great Irish Hooley Returns to Raglan Road

Central Florida’s only authentic Irish and roots music festival, the Re-plugged Great Irish Hooley, will return for the long Labor Day weekend at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs. 

Never heard of a “Hooley?” It’s a Gaelic term for a lively party with music, entertainment, and fun for the whole family, and from September 3-6 guests can enjoy performances from top Irish bands alongside food and beverage offerings.

** LAST WEEKEND ** Electric Ocean at SeaWorld Orlando
Summer 2019 Theme Parks Central Florida Walt Disney World Disney's Animal Kingdom Hollywood Studios Epcot Typhoon Lagoon LEGOLAND Florida SeaWorld Orlando Electric Ocean Illuminations Universal Orlando Resort Universal's Islands of Adventure Harry Potter Wizarding World Hogsmeade Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Summer Nights 2019

SeaWorld Orlando’s award-winning summer event, Electric Ocean has returned until September 6th with more hours of fun featuring new daytime experiences and nighttime favorites. 

Electric Ocean brings longer park hours and allows guests to voyage into an exotic underwater world filled with dazzling lights, electrifying dance music, and brilliant evening energy that sparks as the sunsets. (Cause who doesn’t love fireworks???)

There are new shows, entertainment, food, and returning favorites to enjoy!

Visit Orlando Magical Dining
Visit Orlando Magical Dining

Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is back to showcase some of Orlando’s best cuisine while supporting local restaurants and charities from August 27 to October 3.

During this year’s Foodie dream, more than 80 of Orlando’s fine dining restaurants will offer a $37 three-course, prix-fixe dinner menu.

On the Go in the Parks, you can find Magical Dining goodness at:

Universal Orlando Resort

  • Amatista Cookhouse – Loess Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Resort
  • The Kitchen – Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
  • Mama Della’s Ristorante – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort
  • Islands Dining Room – Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Resort

Walt Disney World Resort Area

  • Il Mulino New York Trattoria – Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
  • Todd English’s Bluezoo – Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
  • Terralina Crafted Italian – Disney Springs
  • Paddlefish – Disney Springs
  • Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill – Disney Springs
  • Jaleo – Disney Springs
  • Deep Blu Seafood Grille – Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
  • La Luce – Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
  • The Venetian Chop House – Caribe Royale

Reservations are encouraged, and when you arrive at the dining location make sure to ask for the Magical Dining Menu as you are seated.

Halloween Horror Night Tribute Store

Halloween Horror Nights is returning next weekend, but you can get hyped with the Tribute Store that is now open at Universal Studios Florida!

Disney After Hours Boo Bash
Disney After Hours Boo Bash 2021

This weekend’s Disney After Hours Boo Bash Dates:

  • Sunday, September 5, 2021

Disney’s After Hours Boo Bash is a special ticketed event that takes place at the Magic Kingdom on select nights until October 31, 2021, and like any new event, and I am sharing what you should know before you go to make the most of your Halloween fun!

SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival
SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Craft Beer Festival

The SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival is returning with more than 100 crafts brews, wines, seltzers, and cocktails Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays, plus Labor Day until September 12.

Guests can sample an unbeatable mix of domestic and local Florida favorites, plus savor more than 20 food items expertly paired to match their preferred brew.

And to top it all off, festive entertainment will keep the party going all day long. This is the one craft beer celebration guests won’t want to miss. 

Busch Gardens Bier Fest
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Bierfest 2020 Howl-O-Scream Halloween

During the fourth year of Bier Fest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, guests can sip seasonal beverage offerings and savor new recipes featuring fan-favorite breweries.

Beer flows through the park on an all-new beer trail, weaving between iconic coasters, local live music, and fascinating animal habitats while incorporating fan-favorite restaurants and outdoor culinary stations, including the new Giraffe Bar.

This year, park guests can toast to new adventures each Friday through Sunday until October 31.

Food and Wine Festival is underway at Walt Disney World 
Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2021 Pinterest On the Go in the Parks

The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is underway at Walt Disney World with delicious dishes, fun for families, and entertainment for the entire family until November 20th!

The festival celebrates the best of food and drink with more than 20 festival-exclusive global marketplaces open now and even more coming in the fall!

In addition to all the classics and fan favorites, there are SEVEN new marketplaces:

  • The Noodle Exchange (Near Traveler’s Café)
  • Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina
  • The Rotunda Bistro (American Adventure Rotunda)
  • The Swanky Saucy Swine (Near Disney Traders)
  • Brew-Wing at the EPCOT Experience
  • Lobster Landing (Near Mission: SPACE) – Opening Oct. 1
  • Mac & Eats (Near Mission: SPACE) – Opening Oct. 1

Don’t forget to see EPCOT Forever fireworks at the close of every day!

Theme Park Reservation & Mask Policies

Walt Disney World

  • Walt Disney World has updated their mask policy for guests ages 2 and up

– Masks are required regardless of vaccination status
– Masks must be worn while indoors
– Masks must be worn on Disney buses, monorails, and Disney Skyliner
– The new policy includes attractions & their queues
– Masks remain optional in outdoor common areas

  • Walt Disney World has opened up more Park Pass availability for summer visits to the park. So while you still need a reservation to enter the parks, it is now easier to snag one.

SeaWorld Orlando

  • In accordance with updated guidance from the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) and the recommendations of local officials, face coverings are recommended to be worn in designated, indoor spaces regardless of the vaccination status of SeaWorld Orlando guests and employees.
  • The CDC has indicated that fully vaccinated people can be in outdoor areas without the need for a face covering.
  • The CDC still recommends that people get fully vaccinated and that unvaccinated people use preventative measures such as face coverings and social distancing.
  • For special interactions with certain animals, unvaccinated people will be required to wear a face covering.
  • SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica are both no longer requiring reservations…if you are planning on going to Aquatica during the weekend GET THERE EARLY as parking is running out before noon each day!

Universal Orlando

  • The Universal Orlando Resort encourages all guests to follow CDC guidelines and local directives to wear face coverings while indoors across Universal Orlando Resort.
  • Face coverings are optional while outdoors.
  • All guests are ecouraged to keep a safe distance between travel parties.
  • Universal Orlando Resort hasn’t required reservations, but you’ll want to keep an eye one their official twitter – @UniversalORL – for any capacity or operational updates
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Walt Disney World News Round-up

While the Walt Disney World Resort is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary with “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” new changes and additions are coming to the resort!

New Walt Disney World Annual Pass Options

The Walt Disney World Resort Annual Passholders program will return on September 8th with four new Annual Pass options, ranging in price from $399 to $1299 plus tax.

Walt Disney World News Roundup September 2021

These new passes allow holders to hold more park reservations, customize passes by adding water parks and Disney PhotoPass and continue to offer benefits such as Park Hopper, standard theme park parking, and discounts on merchandise and dining.

To enter a theme park, each Passholder must have a theme park reservation in addition to a valid pass. Park reservations are limited and are subject to availability and applicable pass blockout dates.

These new Walt Disney World Annual Passes are available online and in-person, with monthly payment plans available for Florida Residents with valid ID.

Disney Genie Debuts

Walt Disney World News Roundup September 2021

Disney Genie, a complimentary and convenient new digital service designed to create your best Disney day, will launch at the Walt Disney World Resort this fall.

Built right into the My Disney Experience app, the Disney Genie service will create an itinerary designed to maximize the Magic you can create during a day in the park. Each personalized plan includes the best time to visit specific attractions, foodie experiences, and entertainment, to general interests like Disney princesses, villains, Pixar, Star Wars, thrill rides, and more.

With the launch of Disney Genie, the FASTPASS and FastPass+ services will be retired to create two new options.

Disney Genie+ service, available for purchase at $15 per ticket per day at Walt Disney World Resort, will let guests choose the next available time to arrive at select attractions and experiences using the Lightning Lane entrance. Disney Genie+ will also include Disney parks-themed audio experiences and photo features to capture your memories with augmented reality lenses.

Individual attraction selections, available for purchase on a per ride and per person sliding scale, allows guests to arrive at up to two highly demanded attractions each day using the Lightning Lane entrance. Attractions included for individual selection include the likes of Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom Park and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and these individual attraction selections will not be not included with Disney Genie+.

Disney Enchantment lights up the Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World News Roundup September 2021

“Disney Enchantment,” an all-new nighttime spectacular, will debut in Magic Kingdom Park on October 1, and new details have been announced.

This all-new spectacular will feature captivating Disney music, enhanced lighting, immersive projection effects that extend for the first time down Main Street, U.S.A., and an original song, entitled “You Are the Magic,” by seven-time GRAMMY-winner Philip Lawrence.

In “Disney Enchantment,” audiences will join dreamers like Tiana, Miguel, Rapunzel, and brothers Ian & Barley from “Onward” as they embark on an incredible journey with adventurers such as Moana, Raya, and Judy Hopps. Joe Gardner from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” goes into “the zone” to discover a whimsical world inspired by the style of legendary Disney artist Mary Blair. And beloved characters from classic stories like “Beauty and the Beast” and “Alice in Wonderland” to contemporary tales including “Luca” and “Wreck-It Ralph” join the adventure. Everything builds to Tinker Bell taking flight, spreading shimmering gold pixie dust, and empowering everyone to believe in themselves and the ‘magic all around us.’

“Since opening day in 1971, dazzling fireworks shows have provided that perfect exclamation point at the end of a fantastic day at Magic Kingdom Park,” said Mark Renfrow, Show Director, Disney Live Entertainment. “From ‘Fantasy in the Sky’ and ‘Wishes’ to holiday spectaculars and ‘Happily Ever After,’ each new show has raised the bar, and the best is yet to come! I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’re creating with ‘Disney Enchantment.'”

Characters Soar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Walt Disney World News Roundup September 2021

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, “Disney KiteTails” takes the magic of nature and Disney storytelling to new heights in the Discovery River Amphitheater, near Dinoland U.S.A. beginning October 1, 2021.

The show’s original, worldbeat arrangements of favorite Disney tunes will fill the air, and a show of three-dimensional kites depicting familiar characters from “The Lion King” or “The Jungle Book” will soar above the water.
“Disney KiteTails” takes place several times a day. word

New Restaurant Opens at EPCOT

Walt Disney World News Roundup September 2021

It was announced that the Space 220 restaurant, located adjacent to the Mission: SPACE attraction, will open on September 20, 2021.

This immersive and highly themed dining experience is out of this world!

Guests board two “Space Elevators” that will transport them 220 miles above Earth to the Centauri Space Station to experience amazing views and culinary masterpieces from Executive Chef Marc Kusche. The Space 220 restaurant’s upscale, contemporary fare menu includes a two-course prix fixe menu for lunch and a three-course prix fixe menu for dinner. 

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