Explore Archives - Page 10 of 23

Explore the Summer of More at the Gaylord Palms Resort

Gaylord Palms Summer of More 2021 - Fairy — Photo: Gaylord Palms Resort

The Summer of Fun at the Gaylord Palms Resort is going to fill the world-class property, featuring a 3- acre outdoor water park, two sparkling pools, and four-and-a-half acres of sprawling indoor gardens, with fun for the entire family.

From May 21 through September 6, 2021, the resort’s Summer of More will deliver the perfect getaway for families with immersive aquatic experiences, event-exclusive culinary and beverage offerings, soothing spa treatments, and an itinerary full of themed programming inclusive of live entertainment, family-friendly shows, activities, and much more.

“Summer travelers wishing to make the most out of their vacation can come here for a one-stop destination,” said Johann Krieger, General Manager for Gaylord Palms Resort. “From our Cypress Springs water park and EXPLORE activities to our award-winning restaurants and world-class spa, we offer everything you could want and deserve for the ultimate summer experience.”

The theme of this year’s itinerary of activities and events is EXPLORE, and this brand-new programming will encourage guests and local visitors to uncover the stories and discover the natural wonders of Florida.

Gaylord Palms Summer of Fun Highlights

Explore Summer: Uncover the stories and discover the natural wonders of Florida in this brand-new, guided, atrium adventure.

Secret Garden Escape Room: You’ve stumbled upon a beautiful and enchanted garden, but beware – an evil witch lurks in the shadows. Escape back to reality within 30 minutes, or you might find yourself under a spell and trapped forever in this garden as a gnome, frog, or spider! This family-friendly experience includes live performers.

Gaylord Palms Summer of More 2021 - Fairy Set 2 — Photo: Gaylord Palms

Florida Explorer Scavenger Hunt: Your journey begins inside the 4.5-acre atrium, filled to the brim with flora (plant-life) and fauna (animal-life) from all over the state. To succeed in becoming a real-life Florida explorer, you will need to navigate through the atrium and learn about unique plants, animals, and historical landmarks.

Gaylord Palms Summer of More 2021_Gator Springs_Gaylord Palms Resort — Photo: Gaylord Palms Resort

Illuminate Florida Show: High above the St. Augustine Atrium thousands of lights dance and create summer images to music several times a night.

Gaylord Palms Summer of More 2021_Light Show_Gaylord Palms Resort — Photo: Gaylord Palms Resort

Animal Encounters with Wild Florida: A special educational opportunity to interact with and learn about a variety of incredible creatures.

A summertime must, Gaylord Palms’ 3-acre water park, Cypress Springs, offers thrills and relaxation for every member of the family – from the tranquil South Beach Pool to exhilarating attractions including drop and racing slides, a multi-level water playground, the FlowRider surfing experience and an all-new action river, Crystal River Rapids.

Gaylord Palms Crystal River Rapids Once Upon a Spring Easter 2021

This new water attraction takes guests on a thrilling ride as they twist and turn through speeding currents. Exclusive poolside cabanas available for rent provide extra shade, comfortable lounge seating, a refrigerator, television, and a designated pool server. Premium poolside seating also available for purchase.

Gaylord Palms Summer of More 2021_Relache Entrance Sign_Gaylord Palms Resort — Photo: Gaylord Palms Resort

Not to be left out…Adults who are searching for the ultimate in relaxation can unwind in the resort’s luxurious Relâche Spa and enjoy a de-stressing massage, rejuvenating facial, or calming body treatment.

The resort features multiple award-winning restaurants with unique culinary experiences, breathtaking atrium views, and mouth-watering seasonal dishes and summer cocktails. Dining options are available for every palate – even from the comfort of the guest’s room.

Christmas at Gaylord Palms 2020 — Photo: Gaylord Palms Resort

As the safety of its guests and STARS (employees) is of paramount importance, the resort’s summer events have been developed in accordance with Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean” program and enhanced protocols.

For more information about Gaylord Palms Resort and to book an overnight stay, room package, or events and activities, visit www.GaylordPalms.com.

For more information and the latest theme park news make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

GATOR WEEK Returns to Wild Florida

For 10 years Wild Florida, located on Lake Cypress in Kenansville, has been sharing their passion for protecting, conserving, and enhancing Florida’s diverse ecosystem including the often misunderstood alligators.

To help share their knowledge and to foster an appreciation for some of Florida’s most misunderstood residents, Wild Florida will once again host its annual Gator Week from May 24 to 29, offering special programming with FREE Gator Park admission to everyone who brings in spare change (more on this in a moment).

During Gator Week Wild Florida focuses on educating guests, debunking common myths, and developing a more positive attitude towards these reptiles through unique experiences highlighting alligator behaviors.

Sam Haught, co-owner of Wild Florida, announced, “We look forward to this event all year, and we’re excited to celebrate alligators with visitors in new and fun ways. From alligator cake decorating contests to gator jumpathons, we love that these demonstrations and activities build a connection between our guests and our environment in creative and unique ways.”

Highlights of Gator Week 2021

May 24, 2021: Alligator Expert – Despite their tough exterior, alligators and crocodiles get sick just the same as we do. Join Wild Florida experts in the Gator Pavilion at 1 p.m. to hear about the different ailments they experience and how they are treated.
May 26, 2021: Gator Jumpathon Contest – People often think alligators can only hunt for food that happens to go for a swim, but their powerful tails can help propel half of their body out of the water and into the air. During the Gator Jumpathon contest, you’ll get to experience what it’s like to hunt and jump for your food. Want to join the fun? Sign-up to participate! After you sign-up, a Wild Florida team member will reach out to you with the Gator Jumpathon details for the day so you’ll get to see what it’s like to jump for your food like an alligator!
May 28, 2021: “Gator Green” Pie Eating Contest – Alligators can only use their mighty jaws to bite and hold on to their food. Unlike humans, they aren’t able to pick up and grab their food with their hands. The alligator-themed pie-eating contestwill allow guests to unleash their inner alligator! Want to join the fun? Sign-up to participate! After you sign-up, a Wild Florida team member will reach out to you with the “Gator Green: Pie Eating Contest details for the day to see who can eat a green pie the fastest WITHOUT using your hands!
May 29, 2021: National Alligator Day – Earlier this year, Wild Florida helped establish a National Alligator Day to be recognized annually on May 29, giving alligators the official recognition they deserve. To celebrate, they’re throwing a huge 1st birthday party throughout their Gator Park with balloons, cupcakes, and more to celebrate the 1st EVER National Alligator Day.

This Gator Week is also extra special as Wild Florida’s adult albino alligators, Snowflake and Blizzard, have produced their third batch of eggs.

At the end of Gator Week, Wild Florida will also celebrate the inaugural #NationalAlligatorDay on Saturday, May 29th.

So what about the spare change? During Gator Week, Wild Florida is trying to collect Crusher’s (their largest alligator) weight in spare change to benefit Croc Fest.

Be sure to check out www.GatorWeek.com for the full schedule of events.

On the Go with Gail: Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

Did you know that Lake Apopka has a Wildlife Drive? This drive is a one-way 11-mile drive that snakes (no pun intended) through the property. It begins on Lust Road and ends on Jones Avenue.

The drive is completely free, but they do welcome online donations to assist with recreation maintenance. There are little QR code signs throughout that you can scan from your car and it will take you to the donation page.

When you first drive in you can pick up a leaflet that gives you some more information, and they also let you know there are signs throughout the drive with QR codes that can be scanned to listen to their audio tour.

The speed limit is 10 MPH but there are plenty of places if you wanted to pull over to look at something as they just ask that you don’t stop and block the road. This was hard at times because the road can get quite narrow with water on either side, so if someone up front stopped we all had to. I was fine with this because it meant there was going to be something cool to check out at that spot once we reached it!

As you drive along, you get the opportunity to see so much wildlife, we chose a rainy day so we didn’t get too may gator sightings, I’ve seen people post gators all along the sides of the road they were driving down at times! Which sounds crazy but you’re inside your vehicles so its safe and such an opportunity!

We did get to see some close up including a really large one, I’m not going to guess how many feet it was but it was huge even from a distance!

A lot of people come here to bird watch, it is one of the top three birding areas for the entire state (includes Everglades National Park and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge).

The Lake Apopka North Shore, where the wildlife drive goes through, is considered one of the most renowned birding destinations in Florida, with 369 different bird species.

During the winter months, more than 150 species regularly use the property, from snowy herons and egrets to numerous tiny warblers and flycatchers. Other wildlife commonly seen include numerous American alligators, bobcats, otters, bears, raccoons, armadillos, and coyotes. I really wish I had seen some of the otters!

It was really something you could do with the whole family as you are driving slow enough for the kids to be by the window if you feel comfortable, which our daughter really enjoyed looking out and searching for the different wildlife.

There are a few restrooms along the way which is helpful as the drive could take up to three hours depending on how many stops you make along the way. There are also a few picnic pavilions so you can get out and stretch your legs and stop for some lunch together. The locations are all listed on the trail guide map. You can bring dogs but they must remain on a leash at all times.

There are also areas marked as a white trail suitable for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding on a 6-mile loop on Clay Island.

The wonderful part of this trail is that I feel that each time you visit, it will be a completely different experience. One time you may see gators, another time many species of birds, so it’s somewhere you could visit again and never be bored. I feel it’s so wonderful they did this trail, I wish I had heard about it sooner, but I will definitely be coming back often, I need to see some otters still!

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive entrance gate is open between 7 a.m and 3 p.m on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays. All vehicles must exit the drive by 5 p.m. You can find more information on their website.

On the Go in MCO: May 14-16, 2021

The days are getting longer and the temps are going up…so we are getting really close to a summer On the Go in MCO!!!

It’s so awesome to live in a city that doesn’t know how to sit still!

On the Go in MCO: May 14-16, 2021

Gatorpalooza at Gatorland

May 15 & 16, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

On the Go in MCO Gatorland Gatorpalooza 2021

Gatorland Orlando is inviting guests on Saturday, May 15th, and Sunday, May 16th, for Gatorpalooza Fun Fest!

There’ll be live music, artisans and craft vendors, fun, games, giveaways, and all the alligators and awesomeness that a day at Gatorland has to offer!

You especially won’t want to miss Saturday’s Florida Man Challenge, and Sunday’s Turkey Dog Toss with the Gatorland Vlog team at the Breeding Marsh.

Best of all, this extra fun is included with regular admission!

And if you are a Florida resident that means you receive 50% off Single Day admissions with your Florida I.D. at the gate!

62nd Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival

May 14 to 16, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (Friday until 5:00 pm)

On the Go in MCO Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival

The Winter Park sidewalk art festival is one of the nations oldest, largest, and most prestigious outdoor fine arts and fine crafts festivals. Organized and run by a dedicated group of volunteers, the juried show is nationally recognized and named the #5 fine art show in the country by sunshine artist magazine.

The festival features all original artwork that has been designed and executed by the exhibiting artists during the past two years.

The show is conveniently located in central park, a beautifully landscaped area whose surrounding streets are closed during the festival to allow for foot traffic only.

Many artist booths line Winter Park’s Park Avenue, the heart of a charming downtown with brick lined streets, unique boutique shops, and multiple outdoor cafés in bistros.

Attendance usually exceeds 350,000 people for the three day event. There are no more than 225 artist selected for participation each year.

The Winter Park side walk art festival has provided the info graphic below for some information that’s helpful to know before you go.

Viva La Música at SeaWorld Orlando

May 15 & 16

Experience all the color and culture in a new way as this festive, family-friendly Latin celebration returns to SeaWorld Orlando.

Viva la Música is included with park admission and runs for two Saturdays and Sundays only, May 15 – 23.

From the hottest Latin entertainment to the coolest attractions and animal adventures, these will be two unforgettable weekends at SeaWorld.

Foodies won’t want to miss the event-exclusive dishes, families will enjoy dance lessons with Rosita from Sesame Street, and you won’t be able to stop dancing with music throughout the park.

Don’t let the sound, spice, and spirit of this special event pass you by.

You can find even more events as you are On the Go in MCO as well as theme park news and tips by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Orlando Museum of Art Announces New Initiatives

Orlando Museum of Art Expansion Rendering — Rendering: Orlando Museum of Art

As part of an aggressive relaunch leading up to its centennial celebration in 2024, the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) announces three new initiatives: a series of six major upcoming exhibitions featuring works of noted artists: Rembrandt, Botticelli, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Jackson Pollock; plans for renovation and repair of the Museum’s current Loch Haven location as well as plans for an expansion of the Museum’s footprint to include space in downtown Orlando.

“We are celebrating our 2024 centennial with a commitment to be an even greater force in our community with two locations, highly regarded and sought-after works of art, and ultimately, a new dimension of unforgettable experiences at Orlando Museum of Art,” said Cynthia Brumback, Chair of the OMA Board of Trustees.

The new Orlando Museum of Art exhibits begin late September, including:

Luces y Sombras: Mexican Photography from the Bank of America Collection;
Cathedrals of Florida: Masterworks by Clyde Butcher;
Connoisseurship and Collecting: European Old Master Paintings, which notably features the earliest-known Rembrandt painting and Masterworks from the Bob Jones University, Museum & Gallery, Inc.: Reading and Understanding Old Master Paintings, featuring Botticelli’s Madonna and Child.

As a further nod to the robust exhibition planning of the Museum, it will also present 25 never-before published or exhibited paintings by noted African American artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose paintings have sold for over $100 million apiece.

Following the initial rollout, the Museum will unveil a singular, never-before-published masterpiece in January 2022, a signature massive drip painting from 1949 by the greatest American artist, Jackson Pollock, Jackson Pollock and the Comstock Pollock: Newly Discovered, First Time Exhibited.

These exhibits represent a departure from the Museum’s usual contemporary offerings and demonstrate a bold new vision which incorporates attention to traditional and other highly sought-after works of art as well.

The Museum’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to file a letter of intent to pursue a downtown expansion as part of the SDG, LLC and Summa Development Group, LLC planned 33-story, 1 million-square-foot modern glass tower at Church, Lake and Pine Streets. The development sits on a three-story glass cube and comprises penthouses, condominiums, a luxury hotel and a cutting-edge contemporary restaurant.

The potential expansion would be an extension of the current Loch Haven footprint, featuring interactive educational facilities, offices, visitor services and notably, 30,000 square feet of additional exhibition space which would house some of the new exhibits and new collections.

“The initiatives we are pursuing are transformational, representing a bold, new vision for Orlando Museum of Art while simultaneously re-positioning us to make a deeper investment into our community both culturally and economically,” said OMA Director & CEO Dr. Aaron De Groft. “We are confident our donors and constituents will appreciate and be equally motivated to help bring this vision to life and we look forward to realizing these plans while continuing our dedication to be inclusive and equitable within our community.”

Keep up with the latest entertainment news around Orlando by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Viva La Música Returns to SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando has announced the return of Viva La Música, a fan-favorite Latin-inspired festival on Saturdays and Sundays from May 13-23, 2021.

This experience, included with theme park admission, will take place with the park’s enhanced health and safety measures, including limited capacity, reservations, enhanced cleaning and sanitation procedures, temperature checks, and face-covering requirements.

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Event Map

Viva La Música Event Map and Offerings

Viva La Música Entertainment

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Fiesta Zone

A. Fiesta Zone

Be there as the Wild Arctic Plaza comes to life! There will be a DJ, stilt walkers, and live bands ready to get this full-blown fiesta going.

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Live Music

B. Live Music

You can’t help but dance when you listen to this red-hot local entertainment featuring salsa, bachata, reggaetón, and more.

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Live Music and Dancing Zone

C. Live Music and Dancing Zone

Make your way to the Sea Harbor Pavilions for more non-stop revelry. Hear live and DJ music, see towering stilt walkers, and more!

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Maraca Craft

D. Kids Maraca Making Craft

Get ready to enjoy hands-on fun and show how creative you are by making your very own musical maraca at this specially chosen craft activity for children!

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 Dance Class with Rosita

E. Dance Class with Rosita

Follow along, kids! Learn a simple dance step to festive Latin music, and then get a physically distanced photo with Rosita to remember the fun.

F. Event Shopping

Explore local crafts and artisan creations that capture the spirit of Viva la Música and find the perfect souvenir to bring Live Music and Dancing Zone

Viva La Música Fiery Flavors

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 1 Fiery Flavors

1 . Skewers

Rum BBQ Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa
Beef Skewers with Homemade Chimichurri, Yuca Fries, Onion Escabeche, Mojo Sauce
Churros
Frozen Sangria
Corona Seltzers
Corona Refrescas
Modelo Especial Cheladas

2. Sliders

Cubano Sliders: Smoked ham, mojo roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickle, & mustard
Pan con Bistec Sliders: Shaved, Marinated and Grilled Steak, Caramelized Onions & Melted Jack Cheese
Choripan
Grilled Chorizo Link, Chimichurri on Soft Baguette
Crispy Tostones: Mojo Sauce
Dulce de Leche Empanadas: Stuffed with caramel and queso, caramel drizzle
Frozen Barrilitos Strawberry Hibiscus and Mango Lime
Corona Seltzers
Corona Refrescas
Modelo Especial Cheladas

3. Meal Platters

Adobo Braised Chicken served with choice of 2 sides: Black Beans and Rice, Plantains, Yellow Rice with Grandules, Tostones
Braised Ropa Vieja served with choice of 2 sides: Black Beans and Rice, Plantains, Yellow Rice with Grandules, Tostones
Mojo Roasted Pork served with choice of 2 sides: Black Beans and Rice, Plantains, Yellow Rice with Grandules, Tostones
Chicharrons and Plantain Chips

Viva La Musica SeaWorld Orlando 2021 4 Pealla

4. Paella

Seafood Paella: Mussels, Clams, Shrimps, Chorizo on the bed of flavorful Saffron rice
Veggie Paella: Earthy and Floral vegetables with Saffron rice

5. Bacalaitos

Crispy Codfish fritters

6. Empanadas

Beef and Cheese
Chicken and Cheese
Spinach and Artichoke
Bunuelos: Sweet fried dough

7. Corona Bar

Featuring Corona Hard Seltzer Cocktails
Lime Mojito
Cherry Margarita
Sundown Sangria
Featuring Corona Refescas Cocktails
Pineapple Passion
Guava Shores

8. Margarita Bar

Frozen Watermelon Margarita
Frozen Mango Margarita
Traditional Margarita
Strawberry Margarita
Cutwater Margarita Pops

9. Cocktail Bar

Cuba Libra
Mojito
Tequila Sunrise
Mango Passion Corona Rita
Blueberry Lime Corona Rita

On the Go In the Parks - SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival Cinco de Mayo

From the hottest Latin entertainment to the coolest attractions and animal adventures, these will be two unforgettable weekends at SeaWorld.

Don’t let the sound, spice, and spirit of this special event pass you by!

Disney After Hours Boo Bash Coming to the Magic Kingdom

It’s never too early to talk about Halloween, and this year the Magic Kingdom will host the ghoulishly fun Boo Bash!

On select nights from August 10th through October 31st, when the park closes this separately ticketed event will fill the park with Halloween themed activities for the entire family.

Disney After Hours BOO BASH tickets will grant admission to Magic Kingdom Park as early as 7 pm* without the need for a day park ticket or Disney Park Pass theme park reservation, giving you time to enjoy even more of your favorites.

The three-hour event will invite guests of all ages to don their finest costumes to enjoy:

Festive party music,
Decorations,
Character cavalcades galore,
Halloween candy,
Exclusive culinary offerings,
Spooktacular entertainment,
low wait times at more than 20 attractions, and more.

As an important reminder, costume masks are not permitted for adults; they can only be worn by children younger than 14. In addition, all guests are required to wear approved face coverings during the event.

Before you arrive, check our Know Before You Go page and Costume Guidelines.

Tickets for the Disney After Hours BOO BASH, on select nights August 10th through October 31st, go on sale next month, with an early purchase window available to guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

* Some event nights in August and September will be from 9:30 pm to 12:30 am

To keep up with theme park news and tips make sure you follow @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

On the Go in MCO: May 7-9, 2021

Obie and Ashley Spring Break 2021 Tips On the Go in MCO

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

If you are looking for some fun ways to spend your weekend celebrating Moms, there’s plenty to enjoy as you’re On the Go in MCO!

On the Go in MCO: May 7-9, 2021

Paws in the Park

May 8th at 10:00 am
Lake Eola Park

The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, the region’s oldest and largest animal welfare agency, is excited to announce the return of their popular pet festival – Paws in the Park – to Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando on Saturday, May 8, 2021, starting at 10 am.

Pet parents and pet lovers are all invited to join together with their fur children and fur friends for the fun-filled, free event, which features a full day of both “human” and “canine” activities, food, and fun, like lure courses for big and small dogs, photo stations, doggy fun zone, costume contest, vendor marketplace, food trucks, Pet Alliance swag, plus plenty of pet adoption opportunities.

Cinco de Mayo at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival

All Weekend
SeaWorld Orlando

On the Go In the Parks - SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival Cinco de Mayo On the Go in MCO

You can keep celebrating Cinco de Mayo at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food festival May 7 -9!!!

During this special celebration, included with theme park admission, guests can experience:

FIESTA IN THE STREET – The Wild Arctic Plaza comes to life as entertainers, stilt walkers, and party starters get this full-blown fiesta going.
12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
DJ DANCE PARTY – Get your feet moving at this fun-filled party (with physical distancing) as we spin new and old beats throughout the day.
12:00 p.m. – 6 p.m.
LIVE MUSIC – Immerse yourself in the traditional music of Mexico as classic bands bring their beautiful and bold sounds to Orlando.
12:00 p.m. – 6 p.m.
MEXICAN FLAVORS – Savor new and classic tastes as part of our Seven Seas Food Festival including our take on a classic Elote dish, drunken shrimp tostadas, beef barbacoa tacos, and delicious beer and cocktails.
11:30 a.m. to park close.

Veterans won’t want to miss the chance to register for the Waves of Honor Offer for SeaWorld Parks!

Through June 27, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is offering free admission for U.S. military veterans and their families to its SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Antonio, and SeaWorld San Diego parks with their Waves of Honor program.

U.S. military veterans and retirees must register their complimentary single-day ticket(s) for themselves and up to three dependents online at www.WavesofHonor.com before May 16.

Mother’s Day at Leu Gardens

May 9th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL

On the Go in MCO Leu Gardens Mother's Day

Enjoy this special day with your mom in the beautiful 50-acre gardens.

Stroll the winding pathways and discover all the amazing gardens including Florida’s largest rose garden which is in full bloom during the month of May. Moms receive free admission on this very special day.

Peak Season Pops will be selling delicious treats!

You can find even more events as you are On the Go in MCO as well as theme park news and tips by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Earth Week at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

While Disney theme parks celebrate all living things every day, during the Earth Week Celebration there’s an added opportunity for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park guests to connect with the magic of nature through engaging activities designed to educate and inspire the whole family.

From April 18 to 24, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will host limited-time experiences including unique Disney character appearances, fun learning opportunities, specialty merchandise, themed food and beverage, a new Wilderness Explorer activity, and more.

Earth Week at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The Animation Experience at Conservation Station shows how Disney Artists bring favorite characters to life by using animals for inspiration. For the Earth Week Celebration, guests can learn to draw characters – including Dumbo, Terk, Squirt, Shere Khan, Simba and Scar – whose real-life counterparts represent amazing stories of conservation work around the globe.

Guests can catch a glimpse of some special characters who will join other favorite Disney pals on Discovery River Character Cruises.

A sampling of Earth Week eats include a selection of limited-time specialty cupcakes: the Creature Comfort’s Honey Bee Cupcake, the strawberry-flavored Flamingo Cupcake at Flame Tree Barbecue or the Sea Turtle Graham Cracker Cupcake. Specialty beverages include The Red Crowned Crane, a frozen Coke topped with frozen Cherry Coke and strawberry cotton candy; adults can spice it up with Captain Morgan Rum.

A series of self-guided, nature-themed challenges invite guests to earn a special Wilderness Explorer limited-time Earth Day Nature badge.

Guests can hunt for an Earth Day 2021 limited-edition Te Fiti Moana trading pin, and also support the Disney Conservation Fund by purchasing a cuddly plush inspired by species that call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home; or check out Island Mercantile’s eco-friendly water bottles, tumblers and reusable bags that promote sustainability.

Any time guests visit the park, they can marvel at unique animals and meet the newest arrivals. Most recently, the park welcomed the birth of Ranger, and guests can get a glimpse of the rambunctious 5-month-old calf and his rhino family on a journey aboard Kilimanjaro Safaris. While on safari, guests can also keep an eye out for two young Masai giraffe who were born a few months ago, and playful Nigerian dwarf goats that hang out at the warden’s outpost

Guests can watch artisans transform 40 tons of sand into a detailed sculpture celebrating National Geographic’s “Secrets of the Whales,” an original series streaming on Disney+ on Earth Day. The intricate sculpted masterpiece will be located on the Discovery Island Stage until April 30.

For more information on how Disney cares for animals and helps protect species in the wild, visit DisneyAnimals.com, and check out “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom” on Disney+.

Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium Collection Grows

Ripley's Orlando Odditorium Longest Fingernails

The Orlando Odditorium is growing its collection in collaboration with Guinness World Records to bring another first to Orlando!

After shattering her own record, Ayanna Williams decided it was time to cut ties with her famous fingernails. The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title holder for longest fingernails on a pair of hands (female) at 733.55 cm (24 ft .07 in) has handed over her curious cuticles to Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, where they will forever be immortalized in the entertainment company’s Odditorium.

Through a collaboration between Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Guinness World Records, the Texas native’s final measurements were taken before she had to wave goodbye to her precious pincers. Measuring 338.5 cm on her right hand and 395.05 cm on her left, it was confirmed that Ayanna not only still held the title, but actually broke her own record set back in 2017!

After nearly 30 years growing what she referred to as “her babies,” Ayanna’s nails were finally clipped by certified dermatologist Dr. Allison Readinger in a 45-minute procedure in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 26.

Ripley’s is no stranger to bizarre barbs. In 2018, the company acquired the nails of Shridhar Chillal, the longest fingernails ever recorded on a single hand. When last measured, Chillal’s nails had a combined length of 909.6 cm (29 ft 10.1 in)!

If you haven’t been to the Ripley’s Orlando Odditorium, it’s where you can marvel at hundreds of rare and unusual artifacts and get hands-on with unbelievable interactives.

The World’s Most Magical Celebration

Beginning October 1, 2021, the Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate five decades of magic with an 18-month celebration filled with new and refreshed attractions, shows, characters, restaurants, resorts, and adventures.

Taking place across the resort’s four theme parks and beyond, The World’s Most Magical Celebration will welcome guests ‘home’ to experience the magic again.

EARidescent Décor

Walt Disney World 50th World's Most Magical Celebration — Rendering Disney

The centerpiece of The World’s Most Magical Celebration will be Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park.

In 2020 the Castle underwent a royal makeover that included a new color scheme that included bold, shimmering, and regal enhancement. And in honor of the 50th anniversary, Walt Disney Imagineering developed new colors, gold detailing, and vibrant hues for this makeover, drawing inspiration from Disney Legend Mary Blair’s vision of the classic film “Cinderella.”

Guests will get to take in Cinderella Castle as it is adorned with new gold bunting, sparkling golden embellishments, among other new enhancements, including a 50^th anniversary crest.

Hosts with the Most

As hosts of The World’s Most Magical Celebration, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be dressed for the occasion.

Walt Disney World has shared images of these new celebratory designs that include beautifully embroidered impressions of Cinderella Castle backed by fireworks, as well as a brocade in multi-toned, in EARidescent fabric – punctuated with pops of gold.

Heart of the Celebration

“You can design and create and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make the dream a reality.” – Walt Disney

What makes the heart of the Walt Disney World resort beat is its cast members, and during The World’s Most Magical Celebration, they will have their time to shine as they will be spreading even more pixie dust across Walt Disney World Resort.

Magic by Nightfall

As the sun sets, the fun will just be getting started!

At each of the Walt Disney World theme parks, their icon will transform into magnificent Beacons of Magic with their own EARidescent glow.

Walt Disney World has described each as:

Walt Disney World 50th Most — Rendering Disney

Cinderella Castle will illuminate the Magic Kingdom Park with a dazzling radiance that sparkles with pixie dust.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, a warm light will emanate from the Tree of Life as magical fireflies gather to usher in the magic of nature.

The Hollywood Tower Hotel at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be awash in a brilliance evoking the golden age of imagination and adventure.

And at EPCOT, new lights will shine across the reflective panels of Spaceship Earth, connecting to one another in a symbol of optimism resembling stars in a nighttime sky. The iconic structure’s permanent new lighting will continue beyond “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” as a defining feature of the park.

I personally cannot wait to see these Beacons of Magic light up the night sky!

Say Bonjour to New Additions

While details are still coming to light about “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” Disney CEO Bob Chapek did announce the new additions that would be opening in EPCOT’s France Pavilion on October 1, 2021.

In the newly expanded area of the pavilion inspired by the world of Disney and Pixar’s Academy Award-winning “Ratatouille,” guests will have the opportunity to experience Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.

This new family-friendly attraction invites guests into a flavorful world where they will feel as if they have shrunk to the size of Chef Remy to scurry through Gusteau’s famous restaurant.

Alongside of the attraction, La Crêperie de Paris, an all-new restaurant offering both table- and quick-service options, will open with a menu featuring sweet crepes, savory buckwheat galettes (naturally gluten-friendly), and authentic French hard cider.

“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” begins on October 1, 2021, on the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, and to find out more about the celebration, make sure follow @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

On the Go in MCO: April 9-11, 2021

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

It’s time to put away the bunny ears, and hop into some great events to experience On the Go in MCO!!!

On the Go in MCO: April 9-11,2021

On the Go in MCO April 2021 RAM National Finals

RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo

April 9 & 10, 2021
Silver Spurs Rodeo Arena at Osceola Heritage Park

The excitement of the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo returns to Osceola County, bringing a level of rodeo competition unlike any other to the dirt-covered floor of the Silver Spurs Arena.

Rodeo Fans will see 200+ circuit champions from across the US and Canada vie for $1 million in cash and prizes while trying to leave their mark on history.

Plus, local vendors will be on-site for shopping and selling local merchandise.

Planes, Tunes, & BBQ

April 9-10, 2021
Wooten Park: 100 E Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778

The City of Tavares 13th Annual PLANES, TUNES & BBQ will be held Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 9th, 10th, and 11th in Wooton Park, Tavares.

The family friendly event features live music, a twilight airshow, seaplane competitions, BBQ, vendors, family fun zone, fireworks, and more!

We will be kicking off the festivities Friday evening with live music, BBQ, and merchandise vendors.

On Saturday, the savory smell of BBQ won’t be the only thing soaring through the air…the seaplanes will be arriving to participate in our Seaplane-A-Palooza flying competitions. You don’t won’t to miss the crowd favorite “melon bomb drop” contest!

Following the contests, Derek Trull & Easy Street will bring you to your feet with a variety of soulful favorites.

The Kennedy Wood Band will then return to the stage before the AeroShell Aerobatic team take flight in the twilight sky.

Jaws are sure to drop! After the fireworks, move your eyes to the stage and get ready for the roaring energy and unique, bluesy rock ‘n roll, southern soulful style of A Thousand Horses performing!

Concours of Exotic Cars

April 9-10, 2021
Downtown Celebration

Get up close to 300+ of the world’s most exotic cars, race cars and Hollywood movie cars, all lined up for concours judging along Celebration’s spectacular lakefront promenade in this premier concours event.

Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Lotus, Aston Martin, Bugatti, Spyker, Saleen, McLaren, Pantera, DeLorean, and other ultra-exotic marques will be displayed and judged, culminating with an awards presentation starting at 3pm, where the owners will drive their winning cars across the red carpet to receive their trophy!

This year, Pagani is featured! Come out to the Concours of Exotic Cars on Saturday, April 10th to see the Pagani Zonda, the Zonda R, Huayra, Huayra Roadster, and Huayra BC, and meet Horacio Pagani, legendary designer and founder of Pagani Automobili!

This rain or shine event is free for spectators!

Craig Morgan at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival

April 11, 2021, 6:00 pm
Bayside Stadium at &SeaWorld Orlando

From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct (and mostly new this year!) offerings at the biggest theme park food festival in Orlando.

You can take a break from enjoying more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to paired with over 75 wine and cocktail selections and 75 craft beers to rock out with free concerts at Bayside Stadium.

This weekend Craig Morgan will be performing on Sunday, April 11th. If you want to make sure you have a seat, it’s just $9.99 for reserved seating in advance. Also, the concert will be broadcasted in the park.

You can find even more events as you are On the Go in MCO as well as theme park news and tips by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

It’s Showtime…Halloween Horror Nights Returns

Halloween Horror Nights - Beetlejuice Artwork

The world’s premier Halloween event, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, is back – returning this fall for its much-anticipated 30^th year and unleashing a sinister lineup of horrifying experiences on select nights beginning on September 3 through October 31.

Guests will face 10 terrifying haunted houses, five twisted scare zones and two outrageous live shows based on some of the biggest names in horror and pop culture – with the first haunted house of the season featuring the ‘ghost with the most’ and Halloween Horror Nights legend, “Beetlejuice.”

Beetlejuice was the first “ghost host” of Halloween Horror Nights – originally called ‘Fright Nights’ – during the event’s debut in 1991. As Halloween Horror Nights 2021 celebrates a milestone year, this former host will become the supernatural star of a bone-chilling haunted house based on Warner Bros. Pictures and Tim Burton’s Academy Award-winning horror-fantasy film.

Guests will be at the whim of the self-described “Bio-Exorcist” as they shadow Beetlejuice’s every move through artfully recreated scenes from the popular film.

From the infamous haunted attic within the Maitland home, to the model graveyard and Dante’s Inferno Room, guests will have the extraordinary chance to enter the movie surrounded by its most iconic characters.

With brash defiance, Beetlejuice is ready to turn on the juice and see what shakes loose – and his plans don’t include returning to the land of the unliving.

And this is just the beginning… more details about Halloween Horror Nights 2021 will be revealed in the months ahead.

Universal Orlando will continue to monitor the environment and implement enhanced health and safety procedures for its operation of Halloween Horror Nights this fall. Specific details will be shared closer to the event’s debut. For more information about Universal Orlando’s current health and safety guidelines, click here.

To keep up with the latest theme park announcements, make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook!

On the Go in MCO: April 2-4, 2021

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

It’s Easter weekend in the City Beautiful, which makes it the perfect weekend to be On the Go in MCO spending time together as a family having fun and celebrating the season.

Here are a few ways you can be On the Go in MCO April 2-3, 2021!

Spring Fiesta in the Park

Lake Eola Park
Saturday-Sunday, April 3-4 from 9 am – 5 pm

Cox Media Group and the City of Orlando are proud to welcome the return of Spring Fiesta in the Park, April 3rd & 4th, 2021 at Lake Eola Park.

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, the tradition returns for its 32nd year to showcase the beauty of springtime at Lake Eola.

Mingle with artists and crafters from around the country as they line the streets around the park, savor the flavors from a variety of food vendors, and enjoy live entertainment for the whole family.

The Fiesta in the Park Committee is diligently working to ensure the health and safety of patrons, staff, and artists by closely following CDC, State of Florida, and Health Department guidelines. The event area has been expanded to allow more space and comfort, face masks will be required by all event participants, hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the park, and each booth will include hand sanitizer while being spaced for social distancing.

Visit www.fiestainthepark.com for the most up to date information and full Covid-19 safety guidelines.

Admission is free.

Hop on Downtown

Historic Downtown Kissimmee
Saturday, April 3, 2021 from 10 am – 1 pm

Hop on down to Historic Downtown Kissimmee on April 3rd for a day of Easter fun!

Bring your basket and set out to search for over 1,000 eggs that will be hidden throughout the area.

There will be cookie decorating, a jelly bean hop, pictures with the Easter bunny and more

This is a FREE event perfect for the whole family!

Disney Cast Member Easter Fair

Community Presbyterian Church, 511 Celebration Ave, Kissimmee, FL, 34747
Saturday, April 3, 2021, from 10 am – 5 pm

Celebration will be the place to hop on over to if you need any last minute Easter basket goodies!

The fair is also your chance to support crafters impacted by the theme park industry.

With over 50 vendors you are sure to find the perfect treasure!

You can find even more events as you are On the Go in MCO as well as theme park news and tips by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

A Trip to the Winter Garden Honey Farm

Did you know that Winter Garden has a self-serve honey farm? I had heard about it, but I hadn’t had a chance to go take a look yet, so I ventured out to find it as I love supporting local businesses!

The farm is located at 9816 Tower Pine Drive, Winter Garden and they are open everyday 6am-9pm (although the website states 7am-7pm so make sure to check). It is completely self serve so make sure you bring cash or check as they are the only forms accepted here and it features a locked box for payment.

They have 24 hour video surveillance and request no one under 18 enters without an adult.

They advertise the finest local honey, their raw honey is 100% pure, with nothing added or subtracted, no high-heat or force-filtering techniques are used with their honey.

Inside, you will find Orange Blossom Honey, Palmetto Honey and Brazilian Pepper Honey in a variety of sizes in bottles and jars. All the pricing is on their website, and posted inside the stand.

You can see some older historic photos from this local family business posted inside. Bob started keeping bees back in 1968 at the age of 8. At age 15 he started his first Honey Company in Windermere, Florida in 1975. He moved around after this to finally settle back in Florida in Winter Garden, where he launched Winter Garden Honey Farm with his family.

They also sell Beeswax candles and honey sticks in various sizes and packaging. They also have an Observation Beehive inside, they had it cleaned last summer and not had chance to put the bees back in, but they hope to get it back up and running this summer. I would love to see that! It has 27 large frames, three frames across at 9 levels. It is this large because typically observation beehives are only a single frame width, which usually means the bees can not store enough food to survive or get over crowded and they swarm out.

As you can see from the shelves, some of their stock is low. According to their website, Orange Blossom Honey will only be sold in 2lb, 1lb, 8oz and 2oz as it is almost sold out until mid-April. Palmetto Honey is also running low, they only have what is on their shelves right now and this will return to shelves mid-June. They still have 8oz and 2oz for this one.

Don’t forget, the stand is open everyday 6am-9pm (website does state 7am-7pm) and it is cash or check only, they do have a collection of pens to write them out, along with some hand sanitizer for afterwards.