I am really excited to share that the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will be debuting on January 14, 2022!
This global celebration of the performing, culinary and visual arts runs through Feb. 21, 2022, as part of The World’s Most Magical Celebration honoring the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort.
And, there’s more good news! The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is returning for this year’s festival, where you can see some of your favorite entertainers perform Disney songs live at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.
During the festival, art lovers of all ages can enjoy inspirational experiences, such as:
Culinary delights from Food Studios around World Showcase
The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – a fun food stroll featuring five delicious sweet and savory treats
Chalk artists turning walkways into stunning landscapes and portraits
Photo ops where you can step into famous artwork
A paint-by-number mural
Figment’s Brush with the Masters scavenger hunt
Performance and visual artists
Special festival merchandise
The EPCOT International Festival of the Artsis available with valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same date.
I REALLY enjoy the Festival of the Arts, and I am beyond excited for the return of the Disney on Broadway Series!
As always, you can find more information about the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts and other special events by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
On October 22nd and 23rd, Celebration Town Center will transform before your very eyes as the falling leaves of the season drop on Market Street in the Fall Festival known as Oktoberfest.
Listen for the rustling of leaves, relax by the lakeside and rock your troubles away, and enjoy the live music with family and friends in this one-of-a-kind themed extravaganza.
On Friday, October 22nd, Oktoberfest will be celebrated in the old-world German tradition featuring the sounds of Dan Witucki & Heimatland Musikanten. Come join in on the interactive live show featuring everything from yodeling to crowd sing-along fun.
Then, come back on Saturday, October 23rd as Celebration Town Center will celebrate “Rocktoberfest”. Featuring Central Florida’s own Cat Ridgeway & The Tourists with opening act Damion Suomi. Town Center will be the place to be to usher in Fall. It’s the coolest family-friendly Oktoberfest in the Southeast, so don’t miss it.
Hop on a hayride, dance to terrific live music, or just stroll and enjoy the crisp fall air and enjoy the great savings at the lakeside promenade.
Leaves fall daily at 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 PM.
Parking and Admission are FREE!!!
There is something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind Fall Festival presented by Lexin and sponsored in part by Sam Adams, Axis Magazine, and The Celebration Town Tavern. For more information, visit us at www.celebrationtowncenter.com
Come early, Stay Late, and have fun at Celebration’s 15th Annual Oktoberfest !!!!
Strolling through dazzling Christmas trees, festive wreaths and unique gingerbread creations at the Festival of Trees has long marked the start of the holiday season for Central Floridians.
The beloved event will celebrate a landmark of 35 years with the theme “Sparkling Holiday Traditions.” The event, presented by the Council of 101, will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. November 13-21 at the Orlando Museum of Art. This year’s platinum presenting sponsor for Festival of Trees Orlando is Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center.
During this time, the museum will be transformed into the festive holiday wonderland the Central Florida community and beyond have come to expect. The fact that record crowds have been awed and inspired by the glittering displays is why the theme was selected according to Council of 101.
“We’re so proud to have created an event that has become the fabric of holiday celebrations in Central Florida,” said Joan Kennedy, president of Council of 101. “It’s truly an honor to see generation after generation make Festival of Trees part of their holiday traditions.”
During Festival of Trees, visitors can see more than 25 designer-inspired decorated trees, all available for purchase, as well as exceptional gingerbread houses, wreaths, and more. There will be a holiday shopping experience, as well as pop-up shops and live entertainment.
A variety of special events, including Opening Night Gala and Tree Lighting, Breakfast with Santa, and a children’s Reindeer Romp party will add a special holiday touch to this year’s Festival of Trees.
2021 Festival of Trees Event information
Saturday, November 13 to Sunday, November 21
General Admission Hours:
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ticket prices:
Adults—$20
Children (3-12)—$8
Seniors (60+)—$12
Military Personnel and First Responders (with valid ID)—$12
Advanced ticket purchases are encouraged and will be available in mid-October on Eventbrite and via councilof101.org.
The epic Universal Orlando Resort holiday traditions and characters are back, bigger and louder than ever before for 51 days and nights of one-of-a-kind festive experiences during this year’s Holidays celebration November 13 through January 2.
Guests can rip open a holiday gift of nonstop awesome where they can join the celebration of Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, meet the maven of mischief himself, The Grinch, during Grinchmas, and experience the larger-than-life return of Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s – and it’s all included with theme park admission.
Universal Orlando Resort Holiday Highlights
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The streets of Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and London will become beautifully adorned with themed decorations, garlands, and lights as the sounds of special holiday-themed performances fill the air.
Guests can sip on hot Butterbeer while they listen to Christmas carols from the Frog Choir comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant croaking frogs, as well as the unique holiday hits of one of the wizarding world’s most popular singing sensations, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees.
Inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” lights up the night sky with a spectacular transformation of Hogwarts castle with a stunning projection of holiday spirit and Christmas moments inspired by beloved Harry Potter films.
Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
See the maven of mischief himself during Grinchmas at Universal Orlando where guests can enjoy the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” – a hilarious live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s holiday classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” starring The Grinch with special appearances by the merry Whos from Who-ville.
And the celebration continues in Seuss Landing, which is completely transformed into a holiday wonderland filled with yuletide décor, including oversized candy canes, Christmas trees, wreaths, and beautiful tinsel ornamenting the land.
And guests can keep an eye out for resident Whos spreading Who-liday joy as they prepare for their favorite holiday.
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida
With the return of Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, guests can experience the excitement as more than 30 larger-than-life balloons take the streets of Universal Studios Florida, along with appearances by the Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me and other fan-favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar.
This parade also features beautifully decorated floats and hundreds of festive performers that fill the streets with holiday cheer. And guests won’t want to miss the spectacular finale led by the one and only Santa Claus as he passes by and lights the breathtaking 80-foot Christmas Tree that has become a holiday icon at Universal Studios Florida.
In addition to these spectacular experiences, there are even more holiday festivities in store around every corner, including delicious food and beverage options and themed merchandise perfect for gifting that will have guests feeling the holiday spirit throughout their visit.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
The merriment continues at Universal Orlando’s hotels, where guests will be surrounded by incredible seasonal décor and enjoy holiday activities like festive meals, strolling carolers, holiday crafts, and more.
For more information about the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort and beyond make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
If you’re ready for scares from the comfort of your car, The Haunted Road, a drive-thru Halloween attraction at Corn Maze Orlando, has returned for its second year on select nights through November.
The immersive outdoor theater show brings a mix of familiar characters, twisted creatures, and unexpected scares to horror fans visiting the social distance-friendly event.
After launching in 2020, the cast and crew quickly realized everything was not as it seemed. Rumor spread that tortured souls who died on the land materialize when the sun sets, resulting in paranormal phenomena and eerie occurrences.
Through trial and error, we learned how to disrupt these spirits and conjure up on-demand ghost sightings for travelers to witness. But proceed at your own risk… it is unclear if the spirits remain to ward off future victims or lure unsuspecting travelers to join them as part of The Haunted Road.
Also New this year is The Barnyard, an add-on experience, that has a Haunt Market, the Ol’ Watering Hole with beverages, BBQ, and of course scares with roaming performers and the Abandoned Butcher Barn haunted experience.
ITS BAACK!! Gatorland’s “Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins 2021 returns for its third year of family fun and fright done right from October 9th through October 31st!
Search for Cryptids in “The Crocs and Cryptids Zone!” where you’ll meet Gatorland’s Skunk Ape while you search for hidden cryptozoological beasts!
Then, grab your Lederhosen for Frank & Steins Ooky Kooky Octoberfest featuring live music from “Polkageist,” Gatorland’s own undead polka band as well as German beer and food for purchase.
The extra spooky “Swamp Ghost’s Monster Museum” returns this year! Dare to enter Swamp Ghost’s lair and learn the origins of history’s most infamous monsters… and maybe come face to face with a ghoul or two!
All this plus multiple themed haunt zones, interactive characters, animal meet-and-greets, a Children’s Halloween Costume Parade at 1 pm with treat bags for all kids who participate!
There are also fun shows, multiple photo opportunities, a trick-or-treat trail from 11 am to 2 pm with candy giveaways, and more!
Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins is included with your regular park admission!
There’s Halloween fun for Everyone at this all-ages daytime Halloween event!
Children and adults can wear family-friendly costumes if they like. Nothing scary or gory, please – Bubba and Cooter are easily spooked.
Tickets are available at www.Gatorland.com or at Gatorland admissions.
And don’t forget Florida Residents save half off through November 1st. at Gatorland admissions.
A Petrified Forest invited guests to venture into their feast with three different outdoor scare trails in the dark, haunted forest filled with terrifying beasts and nightmares.
You’ll want to plan for a night out as there are food trucks, live entertainment, and fun packed front yard activities.
On special Total Eclipse Nights – which require a signed waiver for anyone under 18 – monsters can even touch the guests.
Separately, Kid’s Day and Special Needs Nights will also take place for a milder experience.
Please keep in mind that all children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Universal’s Mardi Gras is one of our family’s favorite Springtime events, and I am SO excited that the celebration is back at Universal Studios in 2022, and it’s going to be louder, spicier, and better than ever!!!
Beginning February 5 through April 24, this family-friendly version of the iconic Big Easy bash is returning to Orlando.
Universal’s Mardi Gras will bring back the event’s most outstanding, fan-favorite experiences – including its spectacular nighttime parade, star-studded live concerts (both on select nights), and more.
Plus, guests can savor mouth-watering, authentic Cajun-style cuisine from New Orleans and additional dishes inspired by diverse tastes and flavors from around the world at locations throughout the park and Universal’s hotels.
All the excitement of Universal’s Mardi Gras is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with an Annual or Seasonal Pass (blockout dates apply).
Additional details, including the event’s concert lineup, food & beverage offerings, and more, will be revealed at a later date.
However, you can sign up on the website to receive updates about the event!
It’s Florida’s Biggest Party, and it’s the loudest, wildest blowout this side of the Bayou.
Brick or Treat is back at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort with kid-friendly fun including exclusive classic LEGO monster characters, enjoy Halloween shows, Halloween shows, BOO-tastic fireworks, and extended hours every event night.
The Brick or Treat celebration’s biggest treat? The not-so-spooky fun is included with your admission Saturdays and Sundays in October through Halloween: Oct. 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, and 30-31 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
LEGOLAND Florida Brick or Treat Guide
Fireworks Take Over Pirate’s Cove
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group, Edward Linsmier
Arrrgh ye ready to end yer night with a bang? Experience the tale of Captain Dreadbeard’s adventures during a siege to save Pirate’s Cove as fireworks make their return to Brick or Treat every event night.
Grab a complimentary pair of special glasses from the crew because once the show starts, wearing them will cause the fireworks to fill the night sky with LEGO bricks!
Trick-or-Treat Yo’ Self with Extended Hours and Candy, Candy and more Candy
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group
Have those candy bags and buckets ready! Brick or Treat features five uniquely themed candy stations around the park for a day of trick-or-treating fun including a Ghoulish Graveyard, Happy Harvest, Cauldron of Candy, and more!
All trick-or-treat candy stations are available from 2:30 to 7:00 p.m.
NEW! The Grand Carousel transforms into the Creepy Carousel as this classic ride receives a ghostly twist featuring popular Brick or Treat tunes.
Grab some spooky selfies with a special squad of characters that can only be found during Brick or Treat!
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group
This includes classic monsters with a LEGO twist like Monster Rocker, Mummy, and Lord Vampyre, as well as LEGO favorites including Scarecrow, Spider Lady, Shark Suit Guy, and more!
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group
LEGO fans can also help craft a giant LEGO Scarecrow brick by brick in DUPLO Valley or snap a family photo inside a large LEGO pumpkin.
Hauntingly Delicious Snacks
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group
No tricks here, this year’s specialty treats have a very spooky and “cookie” twist to them, including the Monster’s Marshmallow “Mud” Cup featuring chocolate pudding topped with cookie crumble, marshmallow topping, and candy. Or grab a bag of Crazy Mad Scientist’s Purple Popcorn Mix for the crazy science of grape-flavored popcorn mixed with cookie crumble.
No trip to LEGOLAND is complete without Granny’s Apple Fries. Pick up a new take on the LEGOLAND classic with S’mores Granny Apple Fries a la Mode and enjoy cookie-dusted warm apple fries, vanilla ice cream, and marshmallow fluff topped with, of course, candy.
Party throughout the Weekend with a Staycation
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group
When the Theme Park closes, the fun is just beginning at the LEGOLAND Hotel! Only on event nights, the Brick or Treat Costume Dance Party takes over the main lobby of the hotel beginning at 8:30 p.m.
Join this monster-themed party by wearing your favorite Brick or Treat costume and dancing along to the best monster mash tunes.
Enjoy Brick or Treat all weekend long like a VIP when you book your family an All-Inclusive Vacation Package, which includes your hotel stay at a fully themed LEGOLAND Hotel, tickets to both parks, dining from check-in to check-out, and more!
If you’re looking for a wicked good time this October, you’ll absolutely want to visit ICON Park!
Family Savings at ICON Park
Until October 31st bring your little ballerina, pirate or princess out for a free ride on the signature attraction, The Wheel.
ICON is offering complimentary tickets to The Wheel for kids 12 and under who are dressed up in costumes, while their family members riding along will receive 50 percent off their tickets to The Wheel (up to four tickets).
More fun at The Wheel
To set the scene on the 400-foot observation wheel, ICON Park has curated a fun, Halloween-inspired playlist to play in the private capsules.
A free ghoulish glowing light show will take place on The Lawn each night, with a show at 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and shows at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Watch as The Wheel’s 64,000 LED lights dance to the spooky soundtrack during a 10-minute production.
While there won’t be a Theme Park Roundup tonight, still make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News on WDBO!
Halloween and Fall fun is in full swing On the Go in the Parks from September 24-26, 2021!
But before we get started, I wanted to make sure that I mentioned a few things you don’t want to miss knowing while planning your weekend!
Last weekend for ‘Happily Ever After’ and ‘EPCOT Forever’
David Roark, photographer
Two nighttime spectaculars at Walt Disney World, ‘Happily Ever After’ at the Magic Kingdom and ‘EPCOT Forever’ at EPCOT, will be retired on September 29, 2021, so expect large send-off crowds this weekend.
Don’t forget that Harmonious and Disney’s Enchantment will make their online debut next week!
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Virtual Queue Free
The use of a virtual queue is currently paused at Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, meaning that guests may experience the attraction using a traditional standby queue.
While wait times have soared, I think this is a great opportunity for those who haven’t been lucky enough to snag a boarding group.
It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of a standby queue may be limited, is subject to change at any time without notice and that a virtual queue may be used again at a later date or from time to time.
Halloween Spooktacular is back at SeaWorld Orlando with candy, costumes, with your favorite Sesame Street friends, and plenty of spooky surprises.
SeaWorld Orlando Halloween Spooktacular is a daytime event that runs weekends from September 18 to October 31st, making it the perfect place for families to celebrate Halloween!
Kid’s will enjoy trick-or-treating, colorful characters, spooky stories, and a Halloween dance party to moments with furry friends like Count von Count, Elmo, Cookie Monster, and more.
The best treat of all? SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular is included with your theme park admission!
A new terror has surfaced, and there’s nowhere to hide. Howl-O-Scream has washed ashore at SeaWorld Orlando, and this time, the fear is everywhere.
Evade angry haunts as they rampage through scare zones. Seek shelter indoors, only to find you’ve entered a house of horrors. Deepen the thrill with a nighttime coaster ride. Quench your thirst for fear at a fiendishly interactive bar. Feel the monstrous electricity of a live show.
Above all, try to resist the haunting song of the one who has emerged from the lake. Evil is calling—with a howl and a scream.
Tampa’s premier Halloween event returns earlier than ever for 28 killer nights with scare zones and haunted houses, including THREE ALL-NEW haunted house experiences.
Fear returns to its most immersive form with the return of iconic horror-filled haunted houses to terrify guests at Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream, Tampa Bay’s BIGGEST haunt event. Park guests will find nowhere to hide as zombies, deranged clowns, werewolves, and new surprises stalk their prey throughout eight scare zones, and unpredictable roaming hordes lurk in the darkness.
Beyond the haunts, killer entertainment can be found on stage with “Fiends!” returning to the Festival Field and last year’s best-kept-secret “The Rolling Bones” performing electrifying rock covers at Dragon Fire Grill.
Halloween Horror Nights has returned to the Universal Studios Resort Orlando daring guests and celebrating 30 years of fear on select nights through October 31.
For its highly-anticipated return, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is unleashing a legion of horror legends, pop culture greats, and haunting original stories – many from the event’s esteemed history – in 10 disturbingly realistic haunted houses, five nightmarish scare zones, and outrageous live entertainment, with diabolical surprises lurking around every corner…
Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event you won’t want to miss. This is my #1 Halloween event in Central Florida!!!!!
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is back to showcase some of Orlando’s best cuisine while supporting local restaurants and charities from August 27 to October 17.
During this year’s Foodie dream, more than 80 of Orlando’s fine dining restaurants will offer a $37 three-course, prix-fixe dinner menu.
On the Go in the Parks, you can find Magical Dining goodness at:
The SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival is returning with more than 100 crafts brews, wines, seltzers, and cocktails Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays, until October 31st.
Guests can sample an unbeatable mix of domestic and local Florida favorites, plus savor more than 20 food items expertly paired to match their preferred brew.
And to top it all off, festive entertainment will keep the party going all day long. This is the one craft beer celebration guests won’t want to miss.
During the fourth year of Bier Fest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, guests can sip seasonal beverage offerings and savor new recipes featuring fan-favorite breweries.
Beer flows through the park on an all-new beer trail, weaving between iconic coasters, local live music, and fascinating animal habitats while incorporating fan-favorite restaurants and outdoor culinary stations, including the new Giraffe Bar.
This year, park guests can toast to new adventures each Friday through Sunday until October 31.
The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is underway at Walt Disney World with delicious dishes, fun for families, and entertainment for the entire family until November 20th!
The festival celebrates the best of food and drink with more than 20 festival-exclusive global marketplaces open now and even more coming in the fall!
In addition to all the classics and fan favorites, there are SEVEN new marketplaces:
The Noodle Exchange (Near Traveler’s Café)
Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina
The Rotunda Bistro (American Adventure Rotunda)
The Swanky Saucy Swine (Near Disney Traders)
Brew-Wing at the EPCOT Experience
Lobster Landing (Near Mission: SPACE)
Mac & Eats (Near Mission: SPACE)
Don’t forget to see EPCOT Forever fireworks at the close of every day!
Disney’s After Hours Boo Bash is a special ticketed event that takes place at the Magic Kingdom on select nights until October 31, 2021, and like any new event, and I am sharing what you should know before you go to make the most of your Halloween fun!
Walt Disney World has updated their mask policy for guests ages 2 and up
– Masks are required regardless of vaccination status – Masks must be worn while indoors – Masks must be worn on Disney buses, monorails, and Disney Skyliner – The new policy includes attractions & their queues – Masks remain optional in outdoor common areas
Walt Disney World has opened up more Park Pass availability for summer visits to the park. So while you still need a reservation to enter the parks, it is now easier to snag one.
In accordance with updated guidance from the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) and the recommendations of local officials, face coverings are recommended to be worn in designated, indoor spaces regardless of the vaccination status of SeaWorld Orlando guests and employees.
The CDC has indicated that fully vaccinated people can be in outdoor areas without the need for a face covering.
The CDC still recommends that people get fully vaccinated and that unvaccinated people use preventative measures such as face coverings and social distancing.
For special interactions with certain animals, unvaccinated people will be required to wear a face covering.
SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica are both no longer requiring reservations…if you are planning on going to Aquatica during the weekend GET THERE EARLY as parking is running out before noon each day!
The Universal Orlando Resort encourages all guests to follow CDC guidelines and local directives to wear face coverings while indoors across Universal Orlando Resort.
Face coverings are optional while outdoors.
All guests are ecouraged to keep a safe distance between travel parties.
Universal Orlando Resort hasn’t required reservations, but you’ll want to keep an eye one their official twitter – @UniversalORL – for any capacity or operational updates
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and more by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
After taking a hiatus this summer, Kids Night at the Museum is back with a splash!
September is Aquatic Adventures Month at Orlando Science Center so this Kids Night, junior explorers ages 5–12 are invited to SEA exciting exhibits, dive into oceanography with enhanced programming, enjoy dinner and a show, and so much more!
Meanwhile, caregivers can enjoy a stress and child-free evening while their children have a fun and educational experience exploring everything the Science Center has to offer.
Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Kids Night at the Museum activities include:
Pizza dinner
Explore OSC’s exciting exhibits
Hands-on STEM experiments and activities
Live Science Show
and more!
Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Kids Night at the Museum was inspired by Orlando Science Center’s summer camp program. During the summer of 2020, caregivers shared their gratitude for providing a safe space for their children to learn and explore during the pandemic. The Center realized that caregivers needed a break and kids needed a place to just be kids. Based on that feedback and following the same health and safety protocols that made summer camp a success, Orlando Science Center launched Kids Night at the Museum in July 2020 to an enthusiastic response.
No two kids are alike, and neither are Kids Nights! Each event is a unique experience with new themes and activities, but it also provides the learning and discovery that accompanies all Orlando Science Center’s offerings. This fledgling event has quickly become a community favorite, winning PLAYGROUND Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for Best New Kid’s Night Out Program during their 2020 Family Favorite awards.
Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Kids Night at the Museum is $75 (Non-Members), $70 (Members) for the first child. Additional Children in the family: $40 per sibling. These events are known to sell out so don’t delay.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW! The next Kids Night at the Museum coming up will be Saturday, November 13.
BEFORE YOUR VISIT:
Face coverings are currently required for all ages 3 and up, regardless of vaccination status. Before visiting, please review our safety guidelines: Orlando Science Center Visitor Information and Reopening Guidelines. While in attendance, all guests are asked to please follow social distancing guidelines and wash or disinfect hands frequently.
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida is Central Florida’s premier Halloween event, and this year the crowds are definitely showing up to celebrate 30 years of 30 fears.
With ten haunted houses, five scare zones, two shows, and tons of delicious treats it can be overwhelming to plan your evening…but I’m here to help!!!
On the Go in MCO: Halloween Horror Nights Tips
Finding the right ticket
Halloween Horror Nights tickets are date-specific, which also means that you will pay more for more popular nights.
Here are some dates to keep in mind:
Peak Nights: October 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, and 30
Better Nights: September 23, 26, 29, 30
October 3, 6, 7, 13, 14, 17, 20, 21, 24, 26, 27, 28, and 31
Universal Orlando Premier Passholders! Don’t forget your free HHN ticket on the following dates:
Sept. 22, 23, 29, 30
Oct. 6, 13, 20, 26, 27
I am always a fan of the frequent fear passes that allow guests to experience the event multiple times throughout the season!
Having the option to visit several times will give you the opportunity to enjoy things multiple times and relieves the ‘do and see everything’ pressure.
Whatever option you choose, make sure to purchase your tickets in advance to save you time and money!
To Express Pass or not to Express Pass, that is the question
Express Pass, available for an additional fee, gives HHN guests the privilege to take advantage of dedicated, shorter lines for all ten haunted houses.
If you have the budget for Express Pass, you will save TONS of time! For example, Beetlejuice had a posted wait of 85 minutes and we waited just under 15 minutes!
This is a pricey add-on to your HHN ticket, costing more than your ticket’s base price, but if you only have one night to experience the houses and the budget I would suggest the purchase.
As with HHN tickets, I STRONGLY encourage you to purchase Express Pass in advance as the price goes up closer to the event date!
Go in with a plan!
Having a plan to make the most of your Halloween Horror Nights experience is KEY!
Make sure you look at the haunted houses and scare zones in advance to make a game plan.
The most popular houses, The Haunting of Hill House and Beetlejuice, are located near E.T. Since most people will rush to those houses, try to hit the houses at the front of the park.
Once you have that plan download the official Universal Orlando Resort app, and watch the wait times on an evening before you go to get an idea of what you could experience during your visit.
Having the app on your phone is also a great tool if your plans need to change during the event.
When to arrive
Halloween Horror Nights officially begin at 6:30 pm, but the front gates typically open as early as 6 p.m.
If you have a Universal Orlando annual pass or theme park ticket on the day of your HHN ticket, you have the option to ‘Stay & Scream’.
You will need to arrive at Universal Studios Florida before it closes to daytime guests at 5 pm, to remain inside the park in designated holding areas throughout the park.
Are you a night owl? Arriving after 8:00 pm is another great option to avoid parking backups and front gate lines.
Ghoulishly Good Grub
While I wouldn’t have included food at Halloween Horror Nights in the past, I am telling you right now that it’s something you should plan to experience!!!
I’m a BIG fan of the s’mores fries!!!
I suggest taking a peek at the event-exclusive menus to find a spot for a snack along your way.
Be prepared!
When going to Halloween Horror Nights, you’ll want to be prepared for different types of weather.
I always bring a bag that is stocked with what I might need because I’ve bought way too many theme park-priced umbrellas and sweatshirts!
I look forward to experiencing HHN every year, and I hope these tips help you do the same!!!
This fall, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is hosting a variety of special events from Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends to the all-new Cirque X-Scream to spooky fun once the sun goes down.
Fall Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
NEW Cirque X-Scream: Friday-Sunday, multiple shows per day
Kicking off Friday, September 17, hair-raising stunts will return to the Stanleyville Theater, this time with a steampunk spin. Cirque X-Scream features all-new acts, including a spectacular duo that spins across the stage, transformative trampoline tricks and an aerial performance complete with flips and twists. Guests will be on the edge of their seats during this electrifying performance with fresh for fall theatrical costumes and music.
Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends: Saturdays & Sundays, October 2-31
Kids of all ages can enjoy this Halloween season with an expanded trick-or-treat trail and furry friends at Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This family-friendly event takes place every weekend in October in the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area and is included in park admission. Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends feature more trick-or-treat stations than ever, a limited-time Sesame Street Halloween Show, festive character meet-and-greets, Halloween Dance Parties and the return of Elmo’s Treehouse Trek climbing area and pin trading.
NEW LOCATIONS: Trick-Or-Treating Candy Trail
Children can dress up in their Halloween costumes to enjoy traditional trick-or-treating with a friendly Candy Crew sharing sweet treats at 10 locations along the expanded Candy Trail, from the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area and along the Bird Gardens pathway.
LIMITED TIME: The Not-Too-Spooky Howl-O-Ween Radio Show
This fan-favorite Halloween show is back again! Count von Count serves as the master of scareemonies as he leads his pals through some of his favorite tunes. With help from Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, Zoe, Grover, Oscar and Elmo, The Count produces a not-too-spooky Halloween show that features song and dance numbers that get everyone involved!
Interactive Character Strolls
Meet Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, Grover, Rosita and more who will be dressed in their best Halloween costumes throughout Sesame Street Safari of Fun for one-of-a-kind photo opportunities! Follow your Sesame Street friends to show off your costumes on your way to our exciting Halloween Dance Parties!
Halloween Dance Parties
Let loose, groove to the beat and show off your best dance moves in the Sesame Street Pavilion at our Halloween Dance Parties hosted by your Sesame Street friends throughout the day!
Pin Trading
Pin trading has returned to Busch Gardens and at select times during Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends, guests will be able to visit 1-2-3 Smile with Me to trade exclusive pins, including collections featuring their favorite Sesame Street friends.
Bier Fest
Brew fans can pair epic thrill rides with NEW hoppy culinary delights as Bier Fest continues this fall, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 31. Guests age 21+ can explore the all-new Beer Trail as they sip seasonal beverage offerings and savor new recipes featuring local and regional breweries.
Howl-O-Scream
For fans of frights and terrifying haunted attractions after dark, Busch GardensHowl-O-Scream has returned as Tampa’s Premier Halloween event. Recently voted #1 in Florida as Best Theme Park Halloween Event by USA Today’s “10Best Reader’s Choice Awards,” this year’s Howl-O-Scream event has returned with iconic haunted houses, horrific scare zones, and killer entertainment. The separately ticked event is available during select nights from Sept. 10 through Oct. 31, starting at $41.99.
THE BEST WAYS TO PLAY – Buy a 2022 Fun Card or Annual Pass!
One of the best ways to experience all the seasonal events, world-class animal attractions and the wildest rides in Florida is with a 2022 Fun card. For a limited time, visit again and again with a 2022 Busch Gardens Fun Card and get the rest of 2021 for FREE! This incredible deal offers more than three bonus months when you buy now, for only $119.99 for a limited time*.
For even more value, get an Annual Pass for unlimited visits and unbeatable benefits ranging from no blockout dates, up to six free guest tickets, and access to NEW exclusive preview events for 2022. The Annual Pass is organized in easy-to-use tiers, and includes one-park, two-park Busch Gardens and Adventure Island Passes, and the popular Florida four-park options, allowing guests to choose the pass, benefits, and the parks that are the best fit. Additional benefits include FREE preferred parking*, special savings on merchandise, food and beverage options, ride quick queue, and behind-the-scenes animal tours among other perks. Passes for Florida Residents start at an affordable $12.50 a month, plus tax, with no down payment
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is always home to animals and family fun, but just in time for the spooky season, things are getting a little WILDER.
Monsters, princesses and animals of all kinds will dust off their Halloween costumes for the fan-favorite Zoo event, Zoo Boo Bash presented by Orlando Health.
“We pride ourselves on the Zoo being the perfect place for family fun every day,” said Stephanie Williams, Zoo Director. “Zoo Boo Bash really embraces that. Parents are always looking for a safe and fun place for their kids to show off their costumes and trick-or-treat, and our partner, Orlando Health, ensures this event always is.”
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on select dates, October 23-24 and October 30-31.
The Zoo will be filled with all treats and no tricks with not-so-scary décor and activities for children of all ages, including trick-or-treating stations around beloved animals. Costumes are encouraged for guests of all ages. Candy will be provided by T-Mobile.
Zoo Boo Bash is included with Zoo admission. For annual passholders, special discounted event admission will be $5 per individual named on the valid annual pass card.
“We are proud to be a sponsor for such a beloved Central Florida event once again this year,” said Shawn Molsberger, president, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital. “With continued increased safety precautions and social distancing, we are excited for another fun event for families across Central Florida to enjoy.”
Guests can purchase tickets online here for guaranteed admission.
The Silver Spurs Southern Showdown will bring together professional roughstock riders and the Silver Spurs’ biggest broncs and baddest bulls in the Silver Spurs Arena on October 1-2, 2021.
The Southern Showdown will include the extreme rodeo events, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and bareback riding, and kick off the 2022 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) season with money earned counting for the 2022 world standings.
Part of the Silver Spurs Riding Club’s tradition includes junior barrel racing, featuring young rodeo stars ready to start their careers in the Silver Spurs Arena! Plus, we will be bringing back mutton bustin’ (a sheep riding event for kids; children must be between ages 4 to 6 or weigh less than 40lbs). This event will happen between bareback and saddle bronc riding.
“We are excited to bring this southern style event to Osceola County and look forward to presenting some of the top bull and bronc riders in the PRCA,” said Dustin Bronson, 2021-22 Big Boss of the Silver Spurs Rodeo. “We hope our guests enjoy two nights of action-packed tradition that includes bull riding, bareback riding, and saddle bronc riding, rodeo’s wildest rides, at the Silver Spurs Arena.”
Silver Spurs Southern Showdown
WHERE: Osceola Heritage Park/Silver Spurs Arena
1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34744
WHEN: Friday, October 1st & Saturday, October 2, 2021, at 7:30 pm
COST: Tickets are just $20 per adult
Kids under 10 are free with adult admission.
For more information on how to purchase tickets and guidelines for a safe event visit www.silverspursrodeo.com.
Get ready to rock, ride and rejoice – Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe is back! Fans and youth groups can once again come together at Florida’s biggest Christian music festival to enjoy gripping performances by some of Christian music’s top artists, powerful worship experiences, and thrilling theme park attractions during an unforgettable weekend of faith and fun at Universal Studios Florida, from January 28-30.
The rocking weekend kicks off Friday night with feature performances by GRAMMY award-winning Christian pop duo, for KING & COUNTRY, Dove award-winning contemporary Christian artist, Matthew West, and more. The good times continue Saturday night with performances by GRAMMY award-winning contemporary Christian rock band, Casting Crowns, multiple GRAMMY award-winning Christian rock artist, Zach Williams, Dove award-winning contemporary Christian band, Big Daddy Weave, and more. For the full weekend lineup, visit www.RocktheUniverse.com.
Beyond the main stage performances, Rock the Universe attendees can enjoy worship experiences throughout the weekend – including a Saturday ceremony with a special message and a moving musical performance, a powerful Sunday morning worship service to wrap up the faith-filled weekend, plus a dedicated FanZone presented by Coca-Cola, featuring live performances from up-and-coming acts.
Event Tickets and Vacation Packages are Now on Sale! Tickets to Florida’s biggest Christian music festival include admission to stellar performances and exclusive access to popular Universal Studios attractions during event hours. And this year, guests can take advantage of admission to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure with a 2-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket, starting at $129.99, plus tax.
At the heart of the event, Rock the Universe supports youth group ministries and offers special pricing, exclusive vacation packages, benefits, and opportunities for groups of 10 people or more.
Starting at $195 per person at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites or Surfside Inn and Suites, a Rock Your Weekend Group Getaway vacation package includes a 2-night hotel stay, a 2-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket, and a souvenir photo. Groups who stay at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels will receive exclusive perks, such as Early Park Admission with valid theme park admission, complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal’s theme parks and Universal CityWalk, and more.
