Summer At SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando Summer 2014

Summer at SeaWorld Orlando is a splashing good time!

 

SeaWorld Orlando has kicked off summer, from now until August 10, with some great new shows, returning favorites, and a great ticket deal!

We had the chance to catch the two new summer shows Generation Nature LIVE and Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up The Night at a Media Preview and we had a blast.

Generation Nature LIVE, in the Nautilus Theater, is a new weekend daytime show that is based off of the SeaWorld Kids Generation Nature program, with Bindi Irwin, that is all about inspiring kids to be Game Changers for nature.

SeaWorld Orland Summer 2014

Generation Nature LIVE is family focused, and connects guests with animals, explores nature and helps guests discover how they can protect wildlife and their habitats. During each show, guests will have the opportunity to meet the SeaWorld leaders in animal rescue, rehabilitation and preservation as they share their unique stories about a variety of rescued animals they care for.

SeaWorld Orland Summer 2014

The show is extremely well put together for younger guests, and offers a really great peek at how and why SeaWorld Orlando rescues animals. I know that Zoe is really going to love this show!

SeaWorld Orlando Summer 2014

Generation Nature LIVE is only shown on weekends, so if you want to catch this show make sure that you plan your visit to include extra time to get a good seat.

After the Generation Nature LIVE show, guests can then make their way to the SEA Garden to meet animals up close and talk to their caregivers about them and how we can help protect their environments.

SeaWorld Orland Summer 2014

The animal in the SEA Garden rotate, we were able to visit with Boris who was adorable, and different animal visit in different parts of the garden so make sure you make enough time in your schedule to stay awhile!

The new nighttime show, Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up the Night, is my best nighttime show I have ever seen as SeaWorld Orlando!

SeaWorld Orland Summer 2014

Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up the Night preshow has your DJ, Robbie G, hosting a dance party full of fun facts and ways to show your sweet dance moves!

During Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up the Night Shamu Stadium new lighting and colorful backdrops se the scene for a party atmosphere that includes new whale behaviors and ends in a fireworks finale.

SeaWorld Orland Summer 2014

You will definitely want to stay for Shamu Celebration: Light Up the Night! There is A LOT of splashing, so if you get talked into the ‘Splash Zone’ make sure you keep your electronics dry!

SeaWorld Orland Summer 2014

Returning Summer Favorites at SeaWorld Orlando include: 

· Sea Lions Tonight

SeaWorld Orlando

Guests can kick back and have a hearty laugh with comedic duo, Clyde and Seamore, at Sea Lions Tonite. Hilarious hijinks ensue as SeaWorld’s popular pair of sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite daytime SeaWorld shows and attractions.  

· Shamu Dance Party

When the sun goes down, join Shamu’s Dance Party with Shamu & Friends at the Village Square located at the front of the park. The party begins every night one hour prior to park closing and continues 30 minutes afterwards.  With countless bubbles floating overhead and crazy lights illuminating the square, this summer’s celebration is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages.  

httpv://youtu.be/_bHDe4iv2cw

· And continuing this summer is SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration bringing pathways to life with oceans of spontaneous entertainment and a “Sea of Surprises”.

The best way to experience SeaWorld and these amazing new shows this summer is with an all-new ticket offer, Your Day, Priced Your Way, where guests can save $15 on a ticket valid any day of the week.  If schedules are flexible, guests can save $30 on a weekday ticket. This new offer allows for great family time while spending less family money.  Plus, planning in advance and buying tickets online allows guests the convenience of printing at home and going straight through the turnstiles. This special ticket offer is available to U.S. residents for advance purchase only at SeaWorldOrlando.com or by calling (888) 800-5447.  Your Day, Priced Your Way tickets are valid for one day’s admission to SeaWorld Orlando and must be used within one year of purchase. 

For more information about Summer at Seaworld, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com, and follow them on FacebookTwitterInstagram, and YouTube.

DISCLOSURE: I attended a Media Preview of Summer at SeaWorld Orlando, where I was provided with free admission and promotional items. All opinions are my own.

 

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Taking Kids to WWE NXT At Full Sail University

WWE NXT Takeover Full Sail Gobo

Going to a WWE NXT taping at Full Sail University is a great and affordable way for families who love the WWE to see some of the future talent and some of their favorite WWE Superstars and Divas that visit each taping.

WWE NXT Takeover Stage 2

But since there are several episodes recorded at each WWE NXT event, here are some of my best tips for taking Kids to WWE NXT.

Pick Six: Taking Kids to WWE NXT

at Full Sail University

WWE NXT With Kids

1. Introduce them to the Superstars and Divas of WWE NXT.

WWE NXT WWE Network Logo
Photo: WWE

You can find episodes of WWE NXT on the WWE Network, and since episode is less than an hour it is easy for everyone to sit through!

2. Follow WWE NXT on Facebook and Twitter.

WWE NXT

Following WWE NXT on Facebook and Twitter will get the heads up on show dates, details, and even special events!

3. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the Full Sail Live Venue.

WWE NXT Full Sail

The Full Sail Live Venue has two categories of seating for WWE NXT, General Admission and Gold Circle. For general admission you will be seated on bleachers, and for Gold Circle seating you will be on folded chairs around the ring and ramp.

Gold Circle sells out extremely fast, but there is no need to worry because the General Admission Seats are all great!

You can find a link to buy tickets for WWE NXT events here.

4. WWE Superstars and Diva visits to WWE NXT.

WWE NXT Wyatt Family

What is really awesome is that at each WWE NXT taping at Full Sail University, WWE Superstars and Divas will have matches.

The WWE Superstars and Divas are announced prior to the event, so watch for information so you can find out when your child’s favorite wrestler will be visiting.

5. Come prepared for a long taping with some of their favorite things.

WWE NXT Ring

When you attend a WWE NXT taping, be prepared for an outing that will last around 4 hours! You can bring your own beverages (sodas in cans and if you bring screw top bottles the caps must be removed) and snacks into the venue or you can purchase them there at a very reasonable rate.

Also the Full Sail Live venue has free WiFi, so in case of emergency break out the WWE App or Minecraft!!!

6. Before the WWE NXT tapings

WWE NXT

Doors open for WWE NXT Tapings at 5:45 for a 6:30 show, and there are several places to eat around the Full Sail Live Venue or there are various local Food Trucks there for you to try.

Make sure that you follow WWE NXT on Facebook and Twitterbecause there will sometimes be opportunities to meet and greet with your favore WWE Superstars and Divas.

Parking at Full Sail can sometimes be difficult, so make sure you arrive on the earlier side so you won’t stress about parking.

NXT Takeover Poster

A bonus tip is that the WWE NXT tapings have grown to include Live Events that are taped at Full Sail University which are a lot of fun! The last Live Event was Takeover and it was amazing!

 

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SeaWorld Orlando’s Hot Summer Deals

SeaWorld Orlando SeaWorld Camps

Cool Fun for the Hot Summer at

SeaWorld Orlando

Great Deals with New “Your Day, Priced Your Way” Ticket Offer

As days get longer this summer, new elements of fun and discovery come to life at SeaWorld Orlando. Two new shows, Generation Nature LIVE and Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up The Night, make a visit to SeaWorld this summer a must. 

SeaWorld Orlando Shamu Celebration

The all-new nighttime show, Shamu’s Celebration: Light Up The Night, starts June 21, and is a high-energy show featuring new, original music and production elements, as well as new killer whale behaviors. Shamu Stadium is transformed with stylistic lighting and colorful backdrops to create a social and celebratory atmosphere, guided by a host each night, and ending with a fireworks finale.

Generation Nation Seaworld Orlando

Also on June 21, the new weekend daytime show, Generation Nature LIVE, connects guests with animals, explores nature and helps guests discover how they can protect wildlife and their habitats. During each show, guests will have the opportunity to meet the SeaWorld leaders in animal rescue, rehabilitation and preservation as they share their unique stories about a variety of rescued animals they care for. The Generation Nature program is all about inspiring kids to be Game Changers for nature. After the show, guests can meet animals up close at the all-new SEA Garden.

The best way to experience SeaWorld and these amazing new shows is with an all-new ticket offer, Your Day, Priced Your Way, where guests can save $15 on a ticket valid any day of the week.  If schedules are flexible, guests can save $30 on a weekday ticket. This new offer allows for great family time while spending less family money.  Plus, planning in advance and buying tickets online allows guests the convenience of printing at home and going straight through the turnstiles. This special ticket offer is available to U.S. residents for advance purchase only atSeaWorldOrlando.com or by calling (888) 800-5447.  Your Day, Priced Your Way tickets are valid for one day’s admission to SeaWorld Orlando and must be used within one year of purchase. 

SeaWorld Orlando

If families want to make a weekend getaway and enjoy even more value, they can book a SeaWorld Getaway and choose from a variety of hotel package options, including a Kids Free at SeaWorld offer, saving families up to $400, available only at SeaWorldGetaways.com.

In addition to the new shows and amazing savings offered this summer at SeaWorld, there are many favorites not to miss, including:

SeaWorld Orlando

The thrilling, chilling adventure of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin® where families explore a massive penguin colony of more than 250 penguins in an expanse that envelops them in cool extremes, both above and below the penguins’ icy, 32-degree world.  Antarctica is a family-ride that combines up-close animal connections with state-of-the-art interactive ride technologies for adventures that are different each time. 

 SeaWorld Orlando

Guests can kick back and have a hearty laugh with comedic duo, Clyde and Seamore, at Sea Lions Tonite.  Hilarious hijinks ensue as SeaWorld’s popular pair of sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite daytime SeaWorld shows and attractions. 

SeaWorld Orlando

For the more adventurous guests, climb aboard and ride Manta®, a facedown, headfirst roller coaster where riders can skim, glide and fly like a manta ray.  The only flying roller coaster of its kind in the world, Manta tops the list of don’t-miss theme park attractions, especially at night.

 

When the sun goes down, join Shamu’s Dance Party with Shamu & Friends at the Village Square located at the front of the park. The party begins every night one hour prior to park closing and continues 30 minutes afterwards.  With countless bubbles floating overhead and crazy lights illuminating the square, this summer’s celebration is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages. 

COMING SOON TO SEAWORLD ORLANDO! 

Fourth of July Celebration

SeaWorld turns up the heat with a special Fourth of July Celebration that awakens the seas after dusk to beautiful bursts of bright fireworks.  Head over to Bayside Stadium and end the evening with a bang; catch a magnificent, patriotic-inspired show featuring 25 singers and a nine-piece band that is topped off with a special Fourth of July firework finale.

 

For more information visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

 

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Diagon Alley Opening Date!

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts Logo

We’ve all been waiting for the Diagon Alley opening date, and here it is…

httpv://youtu.be/ZlZZGoAoZ_8

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley will be opening July 8, 2014!!!

The Today Show has been broadcasting live all morning from Diagon Alley, and posting great video and pictures on Twitter!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
From the @UniversalOrlando Twitter Account

For the next few days the Universal Orlando Resort is hosting a Media Event, and if you haven’t been following along you should!!! The # to follow is #DiagonAlleyPreview.

Diagon Alley is home to two great attractions, new merchandise locations, and new restaurants.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a multi-dimensional 3-D family thrill ride that is protected by a fire-breathing Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Enter Gringotts bank beneath the massive fire-breathing dragon at the far end of Diagon Alley. Inside Gringotts you’ll walk through the bank’s grand marble lobby and see goblins hard at work. Then, get ready to take a journey through cavernous passageways that lead deep underground as you climb aboard Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.

This new, multi-dimensional 3D thrill ride puts you right in the middle of the action as you face the bank’s stringent security measures while navigating the perilous underground vaults. You’ll encounter Harry, Ron, and Hermione along the way, but you’ll have to evade the wrath of malicious villains Voldemort™ and Bellatrix as well as trolls and other creatures who stand between you and a safe return to Diagon Alley.

The Hogwarts Express will take guests between the two parks of the Universal Orlando Resort (admission to both parks is required to ride on the Hogwarts Express) in a way that you had never imagined.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley Hogwarts
From the @UniversalOrlando Twitter Account

This will be the first time that Muggles are allowed to board the famous train that’s such an important part of the Harry Potter™ stories. Guests will travel on the iconic steam engine through the urban outskirts of London to the charming village of Hogsmeade, replicating one of the memorable elements of Harry Potter’s school life. The Hogwarts Express connects the two locations in the two theme parks.

There is a menagerie of shops coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley! I don’t know which one I am the most excited about!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

See a wand choose a wizard at Ollivanders wand shop. Pick up magical jokes and novelty items at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. Find all your wizardwear needs at Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions. Bring home a furry, feathered, or scaly creature from the Magical Menagerie™. Search for supplies at Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment. And gather all your gaming gear at Quality Quidditch Supplies.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

Practitioners of the Dark Arts will find everything they need down the gloomy Knockturn Alley, featuring the infamous shop, Borgin and Burkes.

And what would a new addition to the Universal Orlando Resort be without new restaurants and unique foods?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley food
From the @UniversalOrlando Twitter Account

Jim Hill Media posted an awesome preview of all that you can find on Diagon Alley. I am going to RUN to get Butterbeer ice cream!!!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

What are you most looking forward to at the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley?

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Krystal Stacker Tour and Giveaway

Krystal Stacker 10-City Taste Tour is

Coming to Orlando

Krystal  Stacker

Win a $10 Krystal Gift card to celebrate the Krystal Crave Cruiser giving away 10,000 of chain’s newest burger

 

The Krystal Company is going on tour to celebrate Krystal Stackers, a new take on its iconic burgers with double the juicy grilled-to-order beef, yet served on the classic, fresh-baked bun that makes a Krystal, a Krystal. The Atlanta-based company will give away 10,000 burgers to lucky fans at 10 stops in 10 cities throughout the Southeast.

 Krystal  Stacker

Krystal will rev up its Krystal Crave Cruiser – a literal restaurant on wheels – for the tour and give away 1,000 free Stackers in each city, from Atlanta to Orlando. In total, the Cruiser will travel more than 2,000 miles to introduce customers to the Stacker line.

“Stackers are a great new taste experience that we wanted to share – and in a big way,” said Krystal President and CEO Doug Pendergast. “With double the flavor, served piping hot and, during the great Stackers Taste Tour, completely free, we know they’ll gain quite a following.”

The Krystal Cruiser’s crew will hand out free Stackers along with Krystal T-shirts, coupons and other giveaways. A pace car will follow, broadcasting sights, sounds and stops along the way on Krystal’s social media sites. Fans can follow the tour on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram at #LetsKrystal #StackerTour.

The Krystal Stacker Tour will be in Orlando on June 21, 2014 when the Krystal Crave Cruiser will be at the Walmart 11250 E. Colonial Drive!

Krystal  Stacker

I had the chance to give the Krystal Stacker a try, and it is definitely one of my new favorites (although nothing can replace my love of the chili cheese pup)!

Krystal  Stacker

And now it’s your chance to win a $10 Krystal Gift Card to try the Krystal Stacker yourself!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We are giving away one (1) $10 gift card to Krystal. This contest open to Residents of the United States who are eighteen(18) years and older. Void where prohibited by law. We use rafflecopter to choose one lucky winner at random, and each & every contest entry will be verified. The winner of our contest will be contacted by email (so be sure to double check your entry) and will have 48 hours to respond to the email or a new winner will be chosen. Any questions? Contact shelley@onthegoinmco.com

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Summer of Shell At The Nick Hotel

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

The Summer of Shell at the Nick Hotel, featuring the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), is making the summer of 2014 one to remember!

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

During the Summer of Shell, which kicked off on Memorial Day Weekend, Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael and Donatello will spread turtle powerthroughout the resort with special parties, a new dinner show, themed guest suites, and more.

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are incredibly popular with kids of all ages and we are thrilled that they are taking over the Nick Hotel for our Summer of Shell’,said Tony Aslanian, director of sales and marketing for Nickelodeon Suites Resort. “We can’t wait to unveil everything from our new poolside and Studio Nick shows to our TMNT-themed suites. Our guests are going to be yelling booyakasha’ the moment they arrive.”

The Summer of Shell is full of great new experiences, so let’s look at the new things that you can expect to see!

The Nick Hotel debuted ten newly designed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle themed guest suites sure to make any TMNT fan happy!

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

The first special event of the Summer of Shell was the TMNT Retro Weekend which was held June 13-15, 2014 that featured the original voice cast of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles coming together to celebrate the 30th anniversary of theTMNT comic book!

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

The TMNT Retro Weekend was full of meet and greets, photo opporunities, and Q & A Sessions with the voice talent that was great!

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

Around the Nick Hotel Pool, you can see new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle artwork, and catch a slew of new fun!

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

A new high-energy and fun ‘Turtle Power’ poolside show has debuted that happens at the Lagoon Pool that’s full of dancing, fun, and TMNT goodness.

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT
The “Dive In” Movie

 

Also at the pool will be special glow parties, games for the whole family, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle encounters, and “dive in” movies.

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

You can also grab a bite to eat with turtles at a new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles themed dinner show where you can dine with your favorite heroes and footsoldiers. Antonio’s Pizza-Rama Dinner is available at an extra cost, but it looked like a lot of fun!

Coming soon to the Summer of Shell, are two more additions that will be great for TMNT fans!

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

In July, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles themed Laser Maze will be debuting.

Then later in the summer on August 9th, A Guinness World Record Largest Gathering of People Dressed as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” event will be happening which we’ll be brining you more information about later!

Special rates and stay packages will be available during the ‘Summer of Shell’ and the Retro Turtles Weekend. For more information and a complete listing of the events happening throughout the year, visit www.nickhotel.com/TMNT.

Summer of Shell Nick Hotel TMNT

 

We will be brining you even more information about our stay at the Nick Hotel, but until then make sure to Join the Nick Hotel Club, follow them on Twitter @nickhotel, and join theNick Hotel Facebook Fan page.

Disclosure: I was provided with a one night stay at the Nick Hotel and breakfast in exchange for this post, however all opinions are my own.

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New Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

The new Harambe Theatre is open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and the theatre and the area around it are a beautiful new addition to the park!

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre, which is home to the newly reopened Festival of the Lion King Show, looks identical to it’s former layout, but boasts some improvements for this incredibly popular show.

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

While you cannot notice them, the major changes backstage are what makes this new Harambe Theatre so great. Now attached to the venue are rehearsal spaces and enhanced backstage areas which make the show run better from a back-of-house perspective.

Harambe Theatre

You can find the new Harambe Theatre just over the bridge in Africa and to your left at the newly renovated Dawa Bar outside of the Tusker House Restaurant.

Harambe Theatre

‘The Prime location of the new Harambe Theatre brings a new energy to the show and as well as the area around the area,’ says Reed Jones with Walt Disney Entertainment.

Harambe Theatre

Theming is the name of the game in this new section of Harambe!

Harambe Theatre

There are signs at the Dawa Bar that let you know that you have arrived at the Harambe Theatre.

Harambe Theatre

Along the walls of this area are advertisements for local businesses and entertainment in Harambe.

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

My favorite spot in this new area, is the Festival of the Lion King marque which has a metal ‘quilt’ featuring a certain Lion we all love and some fun advertisements.

Harambe Theatre

Once inside the queue for the Festival of the Lion King, you can find the wares of local craftsmen as you walk to your seats.

Harambe Theatre

Harambe Theatre

Also, located just before the Harambe Theatre is a new retail location where you can buy some of the new Festival of the Lion King merchandise.

New restrooms have also been built that have one of my other favorite pieces of theming!

Harambe Theatre

Stroller Parking outside of the Harambe Theatre is much better than what it was at the former location in Camp Minnie Mickey!

Harambe Theatre

There are plenty of spaces for strollers that are located near the exit of the Theatre, so there is less confusion and people crossing paths.

Harambe Theatre

While I absolutely love this new area, I can only hope that they turn back on the geysers on Discovery River! I think it would bring a really fun kinetic to the waterway.

Harambe Theatre

The new Harambe Theatre is also home to Harambe Nights this summer!

What do you think of the new Harambe Theatre and its area at Animal Kingdom?

Remember to follow our adventures on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

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MOVE IT MOVEMENT Coming To LEGOLAND Florida

MOVE IT MOVEMENT LEGOLAND Florida

Cartoon Network’s MOVE IT MOVEMENT Coming to LEGOLAND Florida

Fun activities at LEGOLAND Florida outline exciting MOVE IT MOVEMENT tour stop on August 9th & 10th

LEGOLAND Florida plays host for a second consecutive year to Cartoon Network’s MOVE IT MOVEMENT Tour on August 9th & 10th. The summertime traveling event targets youth 6-14 and their parents, presented in partnership with the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition and in support of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative. The 19-market tour will end at LEGOLAND Florida, giving guests new sport-themed activities only available during this exciting two-day event. The MOVE IT MOVEMENT Tour is included with park admission.

Guests visiting can enjoy a host of activities, including an all-new Cartoon Network show-branded obstacle course. Other challenges throughout the park include:

  • NBA/WNBA FIT & NBA Hoop Troop — kids can demonstrate their fitness level by testing their basketball skills and shoot against the clock for prizes;
  • The PGA of America Driving Range — updated to reflect the new PGA Sports Academy and its goal of developing young social and competitive golfers, kids are invited to drive the ball for accuracy and distance with The PGA driving range. Top scores are posted on the PGA Sports Academy leaderboard;
  • NFL PLAY 60 — kids can practice a variety of football-themed activities, including running patterns and passing skills;
  • Subway® Fresh Fit for Kids™ Football Sled Challenge – At the challenge, kids can learn the importance of piling the veggies on their favorite Subway sandwich, as they push a custom Subway football sled across the finish line.
  • Let’s Move!/PALA+ booth — a station set aside specifically for registration materials, nutrition tips and further information promoting participation with Let’s Move! and the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award.

Presented in a themed, exciting and fun outdoor environment, the MOVE IT MOVEMENT Tour features multiple activity and learning stations for kids. Parents also will find a variety of educational materials and tip sheets presented by CATCH, and organization which serves to empower kids and adults alike with resources that enable them to take more control of their own healthy lifestyle choices.

For more information on the MOVE IT MOVEMENT Tour, please visit Florida.Legoland.com.

 

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Star Wars Weekends: June 13-15, 2014

Star Wars Weekends 2014Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is well under way, and with so many great things happening during this special event I thought I would summarize what you will find going on!

Admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is required for Star Wars Weekends, and availability is limited for some events so get to your destination early! Also listen for updates throughout the day as events may be cancelled at any time!

Star Wars Weekends: June 13-15, 2014

Scheduled Celebrity Appearances

A highlight of Star Wars Weekends is having the chance to get an autograph from an actual Star Wars Celebrity around Echo Lake! Be warned though, this is not something everyone will be able to do so make sure you choose your celebrity wisely and get there extremely early!

Disney FASTPASS Ticket Required  An extremely limited number of FASTPASS tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first served basis at the main entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to the right of the turnstiles. Based on demand, distribution may begin prior to Park opening. Please note: You must have a FASTPASS ticket to receive an autograph.

To receive a FASTPASS ticket:

  • Join the line of the celebrity you would most like to meet. You may not save a place in line for other party members.
  • While in line, you will receive a wristband. Your wristband along with your theme park ticket or pass will entitle you to receive one autograph FASTPASS ticket. Only one autograph FASTPASS ticket will be distributed per Guest. Each Guest must be present to receive a FASTPASS ticket. You may not get FASTPASS tickets for other members of your party.

After receiving your FASTPASS ticket, continue to wear your wristband. You will need to be wearing your wristband to get an autograph.   Your FASTPASS ticket will have a designated autograph return time. Until that time, you may enjoy other Star Wars Weekends activities. At your designated time, proceed to the Celebrity Autograph Location at Echo Lake to show your wristband and present your FASTPASS ticket.   Once FASTPASS tickets for visiting celebrities are distributed, we may distribute a limited number of “stand-by” tickets with a return time. “Stand-by” tickets do not guarantee you an autograph.   Please note: Receiving a FASTPASS ticket for an autograph at Star Wars Weekend will not restrict you from reserving access with FastPass+ for additional attractions, entertainment and more at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The Star Wars Weekends celebrities for June 13-15, 2014 are:

  • Dee Bradley Baker (Captain Rex / the Clones, Bossk and several additional characters – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
  • Cat Taber (Padmé Amidala and several additional characters – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
  • Tom Kane (Yoda, the series narrator and several additional characters –Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
  • Matt Lanter (Anakin Skywalker and several additional characters – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)
  • Steve Blum (Zeb Orrelios – Star Wars Rebels)

Character Meet and Greets

Wordless Wednesday

In addition to an awesome variety of Star Wars Characters that you can find walking throughout the Star Wars Weekends crowds, you can find special meet and greets at the following locations:

  • Meet Disney Pals as Star Wars Stars in Darth’s Mall
  • Meet the Heroes of the Clone Wars Near the Premiere Theater
  • Meet the Dark Side near Darth’s Mall
  • Meet Members of the Jedi Council near Premiere Theater
  • Meet Members of the Rebel Alliance Near Star Tours® – The Adventures Continue

Entertainment

Star Wars Weekends Stormtrooper

Throughout Star Wars Weekends there are some AMAZING opportunities to interact with characters, participate in great shows, and see fireworks that will blow your mind!

  • Stormtroopers at the Gate – Hollywood and Vine Intersection: Watch out for this duo, as their mission is to keep the ‘Rebel Scum’ in line.

  • Boba Fett Patrol: Boba Fett patrols the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage, and this is your chance to get up close and talk to the universe’s most relentless bounty hunter.

  • Stormtrooper Patrol: In addition to Boba Fett, you can find Stormtroopers patrolling and guarding the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage. They might ask you a few questions, so be cool!

  • Legends of the Force:  Star Wars Celebrity Motorcade – 11:30 am: The Legends of the Force: Star Wars Celebrity Motorcade is filled with Star Wars celebrities, characters, and lots & lots of Stormtroopers! The motorcade begins at the front of Disney’s Hollywood Studios and makes its way to the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage with an awesome welcome and photo opportunity.

  • DJ Lobot Dance Party – 7:00 pm: Dance to the tunes that DJ Lobot is spinning in front of the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage.
  • Symphony in the Stars – 9:30 pm: If you haven’t seen fireworks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you are missing out! This year Hyperspace Hoopla (I am crying as I type this) has been replaced with this spectacular fireworks show, and if you have ‘Glow with the Show’ ears you are going to want to bring them along!

  • Padawan Mind Challenge – 1:00 pm, 2:15 pm, 4:15 pm, and 6:30 pm: Younglings ages 4-11 will enjoy the Padawan Mind Challenge where your intergalactic hosts ask some fun and interactive Star Wars trivia challenges with a few surprises.

  • Jedi Training Academy – 8:45 am, 9:20 am, 10:05 am, 11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 1:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, and 7:30 pm: Kids under 12 can hone their lightsaber skills at the Jedi Training Academy with extra opportunities than normal during Star Wars Weekends. 

Celebrity Presentations

Star Wars Weeekends

During Star Wars Weekends, the Premiere Theater plays home to some exceptional experiences that include the celebrities visiting the celebration for the weekend.

Make sure that you check to see if there are any FastPass+ available for the following shows!

Some of the scheduled presentations include:

  • Behind the Force – Star Wars:  Rebels – 1:45 pm Ashley Eckstein, who is the voice behind Ahsoka Tano, and special guests give a behind-the-scenes “sneak peek” of the upcoming TV show Star Wars: Rebels.

  • Stars of the Saga – 3:30 pm James Arnold Taylor, the Star Wars Weekends 2014 host, and special guests share 30 minutes look into the fascinating lives and movie-making adventures with some of the stars from the Star Wars saga. It’s a talk-show format that is full of fun and surprises!

  • Stormtrooper Pre-Show Make sure you head to the Premiere Theater15 minutes prior to Stars of the Saga for a unique and immersive pre-show featuring several Imperial Stormtroopers on a special assignment. I always make sure to get to the Theater early to catch this!!!

  • Obi-Wan and Beyond starring James Arnold Taylor – 7:00 pm James Arnold Taylor, from Star Wars: The Clone Wars, gives us a glimpse into the world of voice acting. James performs over 200 popular and iconic characters, and Zoe LOVES this show!

Special Food and Beverage Options

What would a special event at Walt Disney World be without special food and beverage offerings???

httpv://youtu.be/DRiz6NSEFwk

Star Wars Weekends have some pretty awesome ones this year that are only available during event weekends!

  • Darth Vader Cupcake: Available at Sunset Ranch Market, ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, Studio Catering Company, Pizza Planet Arcade and Darth’s Mall

  • Yoda Cupcake: Available at Backlot Express, Starring Rolls and Darth’s Mall

  • Darth Vader Souvenir Popcorn Bucket with Caramel or Regular Popcorn: Available at Popcorn Carts and Darth’s Mall

  • Stormtrooper Souvenir Mug with Fountain Beverage: Available at Sunset Ranch Market, ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, Studio Catering Company, Pizza Planet Arcade

  • Admiral Ackbar’s Snackbar in Darth’s Mall featuring a variety of snacks and refreshments.

Throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios you will find additional food, beverage, and alcoholic beverage locations have been added. 

Merchandise

Star Wars Weekends 2014 Darth's Mall

Star Wars Weekends event merchandise can be found in Darth’s Mall sponsored by HP which will be located between Toy Story Mania and the Studios Backlot Tour this year.

Again, be prepared for some crazy lines!!! But the treasures inside are worth the wait!

Once inside you will find limited edition pins, specialty gift cards, artwork, collectibles, and commemorative apparel for the entire family!

In addition to Star Wars Weekends logo’ed items, you will also find the Her Universe line of apparel by Ashley Eckstein.

Star Wars Weekends Stage

I know that we are all stoked about Star Wars Weekends, and can’t wait to share all of the fun! So make sure you are following our adventures on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook!

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Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine joins Star Wars Galactic Dine-In as the two new Star Wars Character meals available for booking exclusively during Star Wars Weekends.

Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine is a buffet meal offered daily starting at 4:30 pm at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios where you can meet your favorite Disney characters as their favorite Star Wars Character.

Here are some things to know before you go to Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine:

  • The cost for the meal is $55.99 for adults (ages 10 and up) and $32.99 for children (ages 3-9).

  • Dinner includes the dinner buffet and a non-alcoholic beverage, but specialty beverages are available for an additional cost.

  • While there have been varying reports of discounts available, we were able to get a Disney Visa discount on our meal from our server.

  • If you are on a Disney Dining Plan, your meal will take two adult table service credits per person. This includes children, so make sure you confirm with your server what Dining Plan credits you will be required to redeem

  • Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine is available to be booked as a Fantasmic Dinner Package with this meal for $59.99 for adults (ages 10 and up) and $36.99 for children(ages 3-9).

  • This dining experience can only be booked by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine is a more traditional ‘Character’ meal, and it was a lot of fun.

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

The check-in process takes a bit of time, because after you checking in for your meal you wait in a queue for your party to have their picture taken with Chip and Dale in their Ewok finest.

A digital download of this picture with Chip and Dale is included with your meal on a special commemorative Photopass+ card that you can only get from dining at this location.

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

Once you have taken your picture, you then have to wait for your table. We found the wait to be seated to be longer than usual, but I believe that this was because the characters were spending longer periods of time with each table taking photos and signing autographs.

When you are seated, each member in your party gets a paper lightsaber for you to use during the meal to show which side you represent.

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

We decided that we would use our paper lightsaber a little differently, and instead of having a lightsaber battle we had the characters sign them!

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

The Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine buffet was definitely stepped up from the normal Hollywood & Vine offerings! The food was delicious, and even though we had a very late reservation it was still well stocked and fresh.

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

We also really enjoyed the fun Star Wars Names that each of the dishes were given.

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

Also, the dessert bar was AWESOME! Again, all of the deserts had a Star Wars touch and I really appreciated that there were mini versions of the Star Wars Weekends cupcakes available on the bar. It was my favorite part!

The highlight of the Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine was definitely the characters, because they took their time and had great interaction opportunities!

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

In addition to Chip and Dale as Ewoks, you had the opportunity to meet Stormtrooper Donald, Darth Goofy, Minnie Princess Leia, and Jedi Mickey himself.

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

Jedi Mickey's Star Wars Dine

We really enjoyed the Jedi Mickey’s Star Wars Dine, and if it returns for next year’s Star Wars Weekends we would definitely do it again!

 

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Car Masters Weekend Returns to Downtown Disney

Car Masters Weekend, a high-speed event dedicated to cars and those that love them, is returning to Downtown Disney just in time for Father’s Day on June 14-15, 2014 from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.

car masters weekend car show
Photo: Disney

The sidewalks of the West Side promenade will be lined with over 100 vehicles ranging from classic favorites to exotic cars on everyone’s wish list in the Downtown Disney Car Show Presented by Meguiar’s.

Expert Judges will be examining and scoring these sweet rides to see who will win awards during the ceremony on Sunday, but why let them have all the fun?

While you are walking along the cars make sure that you vote for your favorite car, because if you do you will receive a coupon to save 20% on lunch at select locations.

All “Cars” fans will be happy with three great offerings at Car Masters Weekend!

Car Masters Weekend Lightning McQueen
Photo: Disney

Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Finn McMissle will be available for photos, , AMC Downtown Disney 24 will be hosting a “Cars” movie marathon, and Pixar filmmaker Jay Ward will take part in fun Q & A sessions.

Chip Foose will be returning ot Car Masters Weekend with celebrity appearances and a stage presentation where he will talk about his passion for cars and more.

For this year’s Cars Masters Weekend, Chip has also created some brand-new merchandise that will be available all weekend long.

The Chevrolet Performance Mobile Tour will be taking a pitsop at Car Masters Weekend! Here you can take a seat inside some of the latest Chevrolet vehicles as well as getting up close to real-life supercars, and new Piston Cup Racers Aiken Axler & Save VanDerSpin from Richard Petty.

And the fun keeps going with hands-on activities for the entire family from Disney Interactive, Disney Quest, Disney Animators, and more!

To celebrate the release of Disney’s “Planes: Fire & Rescue”, Car Masters Weekend will have a fire truck on display where little ones will be able to try on a few pieces of authentic firefighter gear.

httpv://youtu.be/Uk0D5L0TT30

The Downtown Disney Food Trucks will also be out in case you need a bite to fuel up for the fun.

Car Masters Weekend Downtown Disney Food Truck

To find out even more about Car Masters Weekend at Downtown Disney and to keep up with the ever expanding events list, check out the official page here.

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The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX Announcement

The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX

The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX announcement by David and Joshua Wallack, the owners of Mango’s Tropical Café Orlando and Mango’s Tropical Café South Beach, is the latest in the revitalization of I Drive in Orlando. 

The Skyscraper, the world’s tallest roller coaster, and the unique 495,000 square feet SKYPLEX indoor entertainment complex will break ground in 2015 with an expected opening date of 2016, and will be built on 12 acres with 300 front feet at International Drive and Sand Lake Road near the Orlando Eye 425-foot ferris wheel.

A look at the current 

The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX location.

Skyscraper at SKYPLEX

Skyscraper at SKYPLEX

Skyscraper at SKYPLEX

The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX will bring a mix of retail, restaurant, and attraction space that along with Mango’s Orlando will create an exciting nighttime vibe on I Drive.

“Next to our theme parks, International Drive is one of the most recognized icons of Orlando,” said Visit Orlando president and CEO George Aguel.  “It’s exciting for our tourism community to see this type of investment being made to continuously raise the bar on the dining and entertainment experiences we offer across our destination.”

The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX is 570 feet tall and will feature the first Polercoaster built. This mega-thrill ride is a vertical roller coaster created with coaster-length tracks featuring “all the other thrilling mayhem” of a great coaster experience, but “in a very small footprint,” according to Michael Kitchen, President of US Thrill Rides, the Orlando based company that created the ride. 

Bill Kitchen, Founder of US Thrill Rides and creator of the Polercoaster said “Not only will the ‘Skyscraper’ coaster be the world’s tallest, we believe it will be the most thrilling. There will be incredible heart-pounding inside and outside loops, dives, spirals and inversions like the world has never seen.” 

The SKYPLEX observation deck at the tip of the tallest structure in Central Florida will offer views 535 feet from the ground.  To get there, visitors will ride in the region’s tallest glass elevators. 

Skyscraper at SKYPLEX

“We’re extremely excited about creating a record-breaking, must-try attraction on International Drive,” said Joshua Wallack, Mango’s Tropical Café chief operating officer, who also will open a Mango’s Orlando next year across International Drive from SKYPLEX.  “Nowhere in the world will you have two iconic structures like The Skyscraper and the Orlando Eye.  This will be an incredible opportunity for International Drive.”

Wallack and his father David are partners in the mixed-use development that includes opportunities for additional attractions, entertainment, interactive venues, restaurants and retail to include a two-story prime retail space on International Drive.  The SKYPLEX indoor entertainment complex including the observatory and restaurant and lounge at the top of the Skyscraper was designed by global architectural firm HHCP, based in Orlando, and will be constructed by Euforria, a construction management division of Winter Park Construction, based in Winter Park, Fla.

“Imagine a night of incredible dining, lounging and dancing atop a glass elevator ride 55 stories into the air,” said David Wallack.  “It’s a true meeting of engineering, technology and art that is making this dream happen for us.  We plan to bring Ocean Drive to I-Drive with a new dining and nightlife district that locals and Orlando visitors won’t want to miss.”

We are excited about all that The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX will be bringing to Orlando, and we’ll be updating you as the complex is built.

For more information about The Skyscraper at SKYPLEX, you can visit www.skyplex.com.

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Professional Bull Riders Blue DEF Velocity Tour Giveaway

Professional Bull Riders Blue DEF Velocity Tour

GIVEAWAY: Professional Bull Riders (PBR)

Blue DEF Velocity Tour

Comes to the Amway Center

The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Blue DEF Velocity Tour is coming to the Amway Center on July 12, 2014 brining the toughest sport on dirt to Orlando!

Bull riding fans will get to see the best up and coming bull riders in the world will face off with foes nearly 10 times their weight in sinewy brawn during the most thrilling 8 seconds in sports. During this one day only event, each rider will challenge at least one of the rankest bulls on the planet and at the end of the competition the rider with the highest combined score will be crowned the champion. 

httpv://youtu.be/VR1maumNi5w

Professional Bull Riders (PBR)

Blue DEF Velocity Tour Details

  • Tickets are On Sale Now!

    $15 to $75 | All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges.

ME + 3 SPECIAL OFFER: Get a great deal on a four-pack of tickets. Go to the Ticketmaster.com event page and look for the “Special Offer” drop down. Check Me + 3 Four Pack Offer to see available seats. 

  • Door Policy

    Door opening times for the Amway Center vary according to each event. Guests may enter the arena one hour prior to the start time of each event, unless otherwise specifically noted. Guests may check door times in advance by calling 407.440.7900.

  • Camera Policy

    The show reserves the right to approve camera use at any time during and/or before the event and to prohibit the use of any camera that is deemed unacceptable. Cameras with a detachable lens and/or 6” or longer, tablets and the use of flash photography are prohibited at all Amway Center events. Check amwaycenter.com or call the administration office at 407.440.7000 prior to the event for any camera policy updates. Camera policy is subject to change at any time at the show’s discretion.

Professional Bull Riders Blue DEF Velocity Tour 

Win Four (4) Tickets to see the Professional Bull Riders Blue DEF Velocity Tour at the Amway Center July 12, 2014!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest is open to Residents of the United States who are eighteen (18) years and older.  We will be giving away one prize of Four (4) Tickets to see the Professional Bull Riders Blue DEF Velocity Tour at the Amway Center July 12, 2014. Void where prohibited by law. We use Rafflecopter to choose one lucky winner at random, and each & every contest entry will be verified. The winner of our contest will be contacted by email (so be sure to double check your entry) and will have 48 hours to respond to the email or a new winner will be chosen. The winner will be responsible for picking up their tickets on the day of the show at the Amway Center’s Will Call with a valid photo ID. Parking at the Amway Center is not included in this contest. Good luck!

Professional Bull Riders Logo

About the Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR)

The world’s premier bull riding organization, the PBR, turns 21 in 2014. In just two decades, the dream of 20 bull riders has become a global sports phenomenon with PBR broadcasts reaching more than half a billion households in 50 nations and territories around the world, and more than 2.5 million fans attending live events each year. PBR has paid out more than $130 million in earnings to its athletes, and 27 riders have earned more than $1 million, including Justin McBride with $5.5 million ― the most of any western sports athlete in history. For more information on the PBR, go to PBR.com, or follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/PBR, Twitter at Twitter.com/PBR, and YouTube at YouTube.com/PBR.

DISCLOSURE: Through my partnership with the Amway Center, I was provided with tickets and tickets to giveaway for the Professional Bull Riders Blue DEF Velocity Tour. All opinions are completely my own. 

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