Do you think you and nine other friends have what it takes to pull a truck?
The Sanford St. Paddy’s Day Truck Pull will include live music, food trucks, artisans, and craft beer in a family-friendly environment on March 19, 2022.
The truck pull begins at 5 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m. Teams of 10 will go head-to-head pulling a fire truck a block down Palmetto Ave. in “The Famous L” for the coveted trophy and ultimate bragging rights. Participants include the Sanford Fire Department, Sanford Police Department, and many locally-owned businesses.
The St. Paddy’s Day Truck Pull is featuring live music from 4 to 5 p.m. performed by Rosie O’Grady’s Highlanders to get everyone into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit and then afterward Papa Wheelie ends with a hardcore bang from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
“We are so excited to be doing the St. Paddy’s truck pull again” said Paul Williams, owner of West End Trading Company. “In most St. Paddy’s Day celebrations people are lifting beers but in true Sanford Style, we’re taking it a step further and pulling a truck.”
The event welcomes a new fire station-themed bar, The Station Bar & Grub—making the perfect backdrop for the Fire Truck Pull. In addition, there will be a DJ leading the fun from their classic fire truck stationed right out front.
“We love being a part of the Sanford community,” said Alex Sirica, owner of The Station Bar & Grub. “Participating in this fantastic event is right up our alley. We’re excited to see the teams compete and celebrate giving back.”
All sign-up fees from the truck pull will go towards SNAP (Special Needs Ability Program, Inc.)Special Needs Advocacy Program, Inc. serves families in Sanford who support children with disabilities. SNAP provides children with disabilities a platform to understand and retain positive social skills to successfully enter the workforce, social events, and other public areas. Plus, proceeds from the truck pull to benefit the Special Needs Advocacy Program, Inc.
The fourth annual Sanford t. Paddy’s Day Truck Pull and Street Festival is sponsored by the newly formed ‘Famous L Collective.’
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond Sanford by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
The Marine Industry Association of Central Florida (MIACF) presents the Orlando Boat Show for a three-day event March 25-27, 2022 at the Orange County Convention Center, North Hall B. The highly anticipated show features 19 of Central Florida’s top boat dealers representing more than 70 manufacturers.
The Orlando Boat show features a wide variety of boats including bowriders, center consoles, deck boats, flats boats, freshwater fishing boats, jet boats, pontoon boats, and surf boats to fit any lifestyle and occasion.
Extra incentives are available only during the show from dealers and manufacturers such as extended warranties, service packages, waived dockage, enhanced electronics, and accessory packages.
Tickets on Sale Now
Ticket prices are $10 per person and are available for purchase online at https://orlandoboatshow.com/tickets or at the gate. Kids under the age of 12 are free!
Please note Orange County Convention Center parking is $10.
In appreciation of the hard work and dedication to the health and safety of our community, FREE admission is available at the gate for active healthcare workers and first responders with proper ID (up to four passes for immediate family).
Orlando Boat Show Special Events and Seminars
The Fishing Zone
Capt. Mike Bard will be discussing inshore fishing techniques using light tackle, Florida-based Bull Bay Rods and Florida Fishing Products reels. He will give away a Bull Bay Banshee rod and an Osprey 2500CE rod valued at $391 at each of his seminars.
Capt. Captain Gino Losi is a second-generation angler and guide and shares his 30 years of experience and knowledge of Florida’s lakes and reservoirs. Attendees will have a chance to win a half day excursion valued at $350 at each seminar.
Capt. Jim Ross presents, ‘How to fish the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon.”
Go Boating
Bill Porter is the founder and owner of Performance Ski and Surf and shares his extensive knowledge in all towed watersports including wakeboarding, waterskiing, wakesurfing and more.
Sea Tow’s Capt. Kerry Kline will tell you all about Central Florida’s waters through teaching safe boating and advanced boating education courses throughout the area. Capt. Kerry will give away a one-year Sea Tow membership at each of his seminars.
Twiggy, the waterskiing squirrel, and Roxie Show
A fan favorite with shows daily.
Queen of the Show
The Queen of the Show is the 2022 HCB 53′ Suenos, a large center console yacht with the sophisticated design to perfectly balance speed, ride, comfort, and all of the luxury of your “dream” yacht. The bow area is dual purpose with seating to accommodate guests on the forward-facing lounger or around bow seats and table that convert to a large sun pad for lazy days catching rays; or remove the cushions for a fully functional fishing platform. The luxuriously functional cabin with queen-sized berth, storage galore, galley kitchen, and separate head/shower compartment is the perfect place for air-conditioned comfort on hot days as well as longer trips with overnight stays.
An automotive-inspired helm station allows the captain to be fully aware of the surroundings while staying in tune with the endless functionality on-board including charts and navigation, Sea Keeper®, generator, ample stereo system, the quintet engine package, and more.
“The Orlando Boat Show is designed for new and avid boaters to explore the latest in boating trends, vessels, water activities and fishing,” said Joe Lewis of Mt. Dora Boating Center and the president of MIACF. “We are committed to raising the professionalism of the boating industry in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.”
Recreational Boating Boom Continues
According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), boating is attracting more participants as people of all ages and walks of life seek quality time on the water.
An estimated 100 million Americans go boating each year.
61% of boat owners have an annual household income of $100,000 or less.
95% of boats on the water in the U.S. are less than 26 feet—boats that can be trailered by a vehicle to local waterways.
95% of boats sold in the U.S. are American made.
The recreational boating industry supports 691,149 American jobs (511,117 direct jobs and 180,032 indirect jobs) and 35,277 American businesses.
Boating and fishing are the largest outdoor recreation activities in the U.S., totaling $23.6 billion in current-dollar value added. Source – U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)
If you are going to be On the Go in MCO this St. Patrick’s Day, there are some really great ways for you to have fun while wearing your green!
On the Go in MCO: St. Patrick’s Day 2022
Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road
The Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival is back in full swing this year from March 11-17 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant with top Irish bands flown in for the celebration.
The most authentic Irish festival in America will take it to the Disney Springs street outside Raglan Road with extraordinary Irish talent arriving from Ireland, five outside bars, fun St. Paddy’s merchandise, and more.
Award-winning Irish musicians and the Raglan Road Irish Dancers will rock the fun throughout this lively festival that leads up to the mother of all Irish holidays.
Especially for the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival, a new berry-forward St. Paddy’s brew, “So Berry Les,” is on tap for the holiday and on into spring.
Crafted in collaboration with Crooked Can Brewing Co. in Winter Garden, Fla., So Berry Les is a refreshing hard seltzer infused with local Florida strawberry (‘tis the season!) and Key Lime juice. The brew pays tribute to Raglan Road co-owner John Cooke’s father, Les, who in 1977 earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for buying the dearest strawberries at a charity auction for a record 530 Irish punt—equivalent to the British pound—to generate publicity for his restaurant business.
On St. Patrick’s Day only, March 17, Raglan Road will open at 10 a.m. with a $20 cover charge for guests 18 and older; (first-come, first-served—no reservations on this day only); younger patrons may enter free of charge.
Gather your family and friends and wear some green to enjoy the 43rd Annual Winter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade Sunday, March 6, at 2 p.m., in downtown Winter Park.
The parade will begin at Webster Avenue and proceed south down Park Avenue to Lyman Avenue. Active in the Irish-American community for many years, Al Denecour will serve as Grand Marshal, and more than 60 units will participate.
After the parade, the celebration will continue with Irish music and step-dancing on the Central Park Main Stage with performances by professional Irish dancer Sarah Costello, Tir Na Greine School of Irish Dance, Watters School of Irish Dancing, Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance, and Michael Daly, Tenor.
One of Central Florida’s Largest Celtic Festivals is coming to Crooked Can Brewing Company for its’ seventh year from March 17-19, 2022.
Festival-goers will enjoy three days of live Celtic music, Irish Dancers, Local Vendors, Delicious Eats, and of course fan-favorite favorite Crooked Can Brews!
Join in on the fun as Promenade at Sunset Walk hosts its St. Patrick’s Day Outdoor Street Party and Celebration on Thursday, March 17, from 2 pm to 11:30 pm.
Guests will enjoy a variety of food and beverage specials from participating restaurants while listening to live music from artists Tim Hamlin, DJ Scotty B and The Hooligans and watching live entertainment like street performers and lucky leprechauns.
Admission to this event and parking are free.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
The EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival has taken over EPCOT with flavors in full bloom and dishes waiting to be cultivated through July 4.
In addition to the topiaries featuring some of Disney and Pixar characters, the Garden Rocks Concert Series, and exclusive merchandise, this year’s festival features almost 20 Outdoor Kitchens!
Guests of the festival can enjoy new delights like the BLT Scone atCider House as well as the return of fan-favorites like the Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board.
Don’t forget to pick up a Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Passport at an entrance to participate in Garden Graze, a food stroll featuring five delicious dishes from various Outdoor Kitchens. Get a stamp in your passport after you’ve purchased the items and once you’ve compiled all five, simply make your way to Pineapple Promenade to receive your Festival-exclusive treat.
2022 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival: Foodie Guide
Flavor Full Kitchen Hosted by AdventHealth (Between Imagination! and Refreshment Port)
Food Items:
Grilled Street Corn on the Cob with savory garlic spread (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Seared Salmon with farro risotto and micro herbs
Strawberry Mousse with chocolate-crisp pearls
Beverages:
Blood Orange Agua Fresca (non-alcoholic)
Cookie Butter Worms and Dirt (non-alcoholic)
EPCOT Sunshine Griddle (Near Test Track presented by Chevrolet)
Food Items:
Avocado Toast with marinated toybox tomatoes on toasted ciabatta (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Shrimp and Grits: Blackened shrimp and cheddar cheese grits with brown gravy and sweet corn salsa
Corned Beef Brisket Hash with house-made potato barrels, onions, peppers, cheese curds, and a soft-poached egg with Tabasco hollandaise (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Fried Cinnamon Roll Bites with cream cheese frosting and candied bacon
Beverages:
Froot Loops Shake (non-alcoholic)
Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew Cocktail with milk, rum and coffee liqueur, and vanilla vodka
The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board
Food Items:
Tupelo Honey and Sweet Corn Spoon Bread with jalapeños, bacon, and house-made whipped honey butter (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread with whipped honey-ricotta cheese, marinated vegetables, and goat cheese
Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with orange blossom honey whipped cream, whipped honey, crystalized honey, honeycomb, dehydrated honey, and fennel pollen meringue kisses
Beverages:
Honey-Peach Freeze in a Souvenir Spike the Bee Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic) (Limit 2 per guest)
Lemonade Mead
Orange Blossom Honey Wine
Honey-Peach Freeze with Blueberry Vodka
The Citrus Blossom (Near Port of Entry)
Food Items:
Crispy Mojo Marinated Pork Belly, with avocado cream, corn salsa, salsa verde, and plantain chips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (New)
Tuna Tataki Bowl with spicy yuzu glaze, mango, avocado, and pappadam crisp
Springtime Menu (available April 10 through May 21)
Grilled Vegetable Bruschetta with marinated peppers, zucchini, squash, artichokes, goat cheese, and balsamic glaze on grilled ciabatta (New)
Herb-crusted Spring Lamb with marble potatoes, spring vegetables, and red wine butter sauce
Strawberry Rhubarb Upside-down Cake with crème fraîche whipped cream
Summer Solstice Menu (available May 22 through July 4)
Tomato and Cornbread Panzanella with burrata cheese and fresh basil
Barbecue Seared Pork Tenderloin with summer succotash, herb butter, and grapefruit vinaigrette (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
A Whole Lotta Melon: Feta cheesecake with watermelon curd, pickled watermelon rind, watermelon caramel, and compressed watermelon (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beverages (available throughout the Festival):
Raspberry Lemon Verbena Whole-Leaf-Steeped Sparkling Hard Tea
Hibiscus Lemonade Cocktail featuring hibiscus gin
Cider House (United Kingdom)
Food Items:
BLT Scone with Nueske’s applewood-smoked bacon, sundried tomato, and basil (New)
Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with whipped cream
Beverages:
Pink Lemonade Hard Cider
Watermelon Hard Cider
Triple Jam Hard Cider
Pure Brewed Organic Lager
Snakebite: Triple jam hard cider and pure brewed organic lager
Cider Flight
Northern Bloom (Canada)
Food Items:
Seared Scallops with French green beans, butter potatoes, brown butter vinaigrette, and applewood-smoked bacon (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beef Tenderloin Tips, Mushroom Bordelaise Sauce, and Whipped Potatoes with garden vegetables
Griddled Maple Pound Cake with warm peach compote and sweet corn gelato
Beverages:
Maple Popcorn Shake (non-alcoholic)
Blonde Ale
Blueberry Fruit Beer
Apricot with Maple Syrup Blonde Ale
Maple Popcorn Shake with maple rye whisky
Beer Flight
Jardin de Fiestas (Mexico)
Food Items:
Enchilada de Mole Negro: Chipotle chicken in a corn tortilla with mole negro, avocado mousse, crema Mexicana, and queso fresco (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Taco Vampiro: Barbacoa beef in a corn tortilla with crispy grilled Monterey jack cheese, salsa ranchera, and esquites (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Tostada de Chorizo: Plant-based Chorizo and black beans on a crispy corn tortilla with avocado mousse and queso fresco (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beverages:
Poppy Flower Margarita: Tequila blanco, hibiscus flower tea, cucumber juice, aperitivo, and blackcurrant liqueur with a chile salt rim
Hypnotic Margarita: Tequila blanco, mezcal, rosemary syrup, cognac, and lemon juice
Craft Mexican Lager
Lotus House (China)
Food Items:
Spicy Mala Chicken Skewer (New)
House-made Cheesy Crab Wontons
Beverages:
Rose Bubble Milk Tea (non-alcoholic) (New)
Jasmine Draft Beer
Marco Boba: Amaretto, iced coffee, milk, and boba
Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, triple sec, mango, orange juice, and soda water
Tang Dynasty: Tequila gold, light rum, strawberry, piña colada mix, white boba pearls, and soda water
Primavera Kitchen (Italy)
Food Items:
Arancini: Fried Risotto Balls stuffed with braised beef served with grape tomato salad and balsamic emulsion
Ravioli alla Boscaiola: Sweet sausage ravioli with sweet corn, spring vegetables, and cream sauce
Bomboloni: Cream-filled Italian doughnut with raspberry sauce and powdered sugar
Beverages:
Pilsner
Pinot Grigio
Chianti
Prosecco
Rosa Regale
Moscato
Italian White Sangria with prosecco
Italian Red Sangria with cabernet sauvignon
Italian Margarita with limoncello and tequila
Hanami (Japan)
Food Items:
Frushi: Strawberry, pineapple, and cantaloupe wrapped in sweet rice and pink soy wrap served with whipped cream, berry sauce, and toasted coconut
Chicken Yakitori: Grilled chicken with scallions, red pepper-shoyu emulsion, and pickled onions
Beef Tataki: Seared sirloin with red shiso sauce, watermelon radish, and sprouts
Beverages:
Yuzu Tilted Tonic Hard Seltzer
Ozeki Pineapple Nigori Sake
Cucumber Cooler: Sake, vodka, and cucumber garnished with a cucumber slice
Fleur de Lys (France)
Food Items:
Croissant au Fromage de Chèvre, Herbes et Ail Rôtie: Croissant with goat cheese, herbs, and roasted garlic (New)
Pan Bagnat Classique: The Niçoise Sandwich with house-made bread, albacore tuna mayonnaise, tomato, black olives, lettuce, and celery (New)
Salade de Lentilles à la Lyonnaise: French Green Lentil Salad with bacon and garlic sausage (New)
Beignet Caramélisé, Fourré Crème Vanille, Glacé au Caramel Fleur de Sel: Caramelized Beignet filled with vanilla cream and glazed with caramel fleur de sel
Beverages:
French Wheat Draft Beer
VeRy Raspberry: Rosé wine with natural raspberry flavor
Grand Mimosa Cocktail with orange liqueur, Champagne, and orange juice
La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush: Vodka, orange vodka, and liqueur with white and red cranberry juice
Funnel Cake
Food Item:
Strawberry Cheesecake Funnel Cake topped with strawberry ice cream, cheesecake crumbles, strawberry drizzle, and whipped cream (New)
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE) – Minty Melon Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of watermelon-cucumber-mint juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring Watermelon-Basil Vodka)(New)
Near Canada: Strawberry Fields Refresher – A lightly caffeinated blend of strawberry açaí juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring strawberry-lemongrass vodka)(New)
World Showcase (Near Disney Traders) – Pink Paradise Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of refreshing dragon fruit-lychee juice with strawberries and blueberries (Spirited option available featuring watermelon-basil vodka)(New)
The American Adventure – Wildberry Wonder Refresher: A lightly caffeinated blend of wildberry-hibiscus juice with strawberries and blueberries (New) (Spirited option available featuring tropical rum)
I don’t know about you, but I’m really hungry and ready to try out most of these Epcot Flower & Garden Festival flavors!!!
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
The EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival springs to life at Disney World with more than just beautiful blooms as five new merchandise lines are debuting during the celebration.
The different lines feature beloved characters including the Orange Bird, Spike the Bee, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Figment with colorful garden tools, cheerful drinkware, stylish accessories and more.
Epcot Flower & Garden Festival: Merchandise
Orange Bird Collection
Orange you glad these Orange Bird items are coming to EPCOT? An iconic symbol of the sunshine state, Orange Bird inspires an eye-catching collection of wearable fashions, accessories and other adorable keepsakes, including a new Corkcicle design or the Orange-Lemon Smoothie in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup.
Mickey Mouse Home Garden Collection
Garden in style with this vibrant assortment of apparel, drinkware, yard tools and other coordinating accessories. Mickey Mouse takes center stage in the collection’s playful design, which features springtime blue hues and dainty floral prints.
Spike the Bee Collection
Memorable for his appearances in early Mickey Mouse cartoons, Spike the Bee evokes nostalgia for longtime Disney fans. The collection includes a variety of sweet new pieces, including collectible novelties, apparel and accessories.
Figment’s Garden Collection
Figment shares his love of all things purple – including beets! – with an imaginative new line of wares that celebrate the springtime harvest. These creative purple pieces will launch later on during the festival.
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Collection
Decked out in dapper ensembles, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are ready for a stroll in the garden! Find an array of new items featuring whimsical artwork inspired by the festival.
Ready to get out your credit card?
Epcot Flower & Garden Festival merchandise can be found at festival retail locations throughout EPCOT, with additional pieces debuting throughout the festival, and select items available on shopDisney.com.
The 2022 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festivalis blooming with fresh cuisine, beautiful gardens, whimsical topiaries of familiar characters, and flourishing entertainment from March 2 through July 4, 2022.
Topiaries
The obvious highlight of the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is the Disney and Pixar character topiaries.
These iconic and towering topiaries can be found throughout the park and are sure to brighten up the rainiest Spring Day!
As a salute to the Walt Disney World Resort’s 50th anniversary, the Epcot entry plaza is home to a Goofy Topiary and Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration Cake.
Gardens
Take a walk off the beaten path to find flowerbeds, exotic gardens, sustainable foods, and imaginative ways to live in harmony with the natural world.
New to the festival this year is the Blossoms of Fragrance Presented by Scentsy which fills the World Showcase Bridge with unforgettable fragrances
World Showcase at EPCOT plays host to over twenty Festival-exclusive Outdoor Kitchens and dining locations during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival.
At each Outdoor Kitchen, festival-goers will find specialty menus featuring creative, fresh, and tasty bites paired with libations.
Guests of the festival can enjoy new delights like the BLT Scone atCider House as well as the return of fan-favorites like theLocal Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by the National Honey Board.
Make sure to pick up an Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Passport at either park entrance to participate in Garden Graze, a food stroll featuring five delicious dishes from various Outdoor Kitchens that once completed result in a festival-exclusive treat.
Outdoor Kitchens are open daily from 11:00 am to park close, unless otherwise noted.
Garden Rocks Concert Series
Need a way to work off those extra calories during the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival?
Head to the Garden Rocks Concert Series that takes place on select nights at the America Gardens Theatre in the American Adventure Pavilion.
New and returning favorite rockers include Rick Springfield, Kool & The Gang, Blue October, STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas, TobyMac, The Commodores, Little River Band, Simple Plan, and many more.
Garden Rocks Concert Dining Package
The lines for the festival concerts can get quite long, and to make the most of their time in the park guests can book a Garden Rocks Dining Package that includes a leisurely meal at an EPCOT restaurant earlier in the evening and guaranteed seats at one of the Garden Rocks performances that day.
Dining packages are available at four EPCOT eateries at lunch and dinner.
Each package includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert or one full buffet (where applicable), along with a non-alcoholic beverage and one guaranteed seat per person to one Garden Rocks concert performance on the same day.
📷 Walt Disney World Resort- Harrison Cooney
Family Fun
While the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is friendly for even the youngest horticultural enthusiast, there are several ways to add even more fun to a family’s day!
The Health Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth is a whimsical area made to inspire youthful energy and creativity! The whole family can learn ways to stay healthy at this Outdoor Kitchen and garden along the Imagination Walkway.
Embark on a springtime scavenger hunt for gardeners of all ages with Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration.
Follow Spike the Bee on his pollination trail, where he will “bee” busy collecting nectar and pollinating gardens at EPCOT. To get started, purchase your map and stickers at select merchandise locations (available while supplies last).
Once completed, return your scavenger hunt map to Disney Traders or World Traveler for a special surprise.
Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is a great and affordable way to spend time at the festival with a price tag of only $9.99 + tax.
Take home magical mementos from the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival with a variety of themed merchandise collections.
Mickey Mouse Home Garden
Celebrate this year’s festival with home garden-inspired merchandise from this collection featuring vibrant apparel, drinkware, garden tools and so much more.
Orange Bird
Find adorable Orange Bird keepsakes within this vibrant collection that includes apparel, accessories, and other novelties.
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse
Browse a collection that celebrates Mickey and Minnie Mouse—featuring apparel, drinkware, trading pins, and a MagicBand.
Figment’s Garden
Grow your imagination with Figment-themed apparel, drinkware, and more as you dream green this festival season.
Spike the Bee
Find sweet reminders of Spike the Bee on apparel, accessories, drinkware, a garden stake, and other collectible novelties.
As a reminder, to enjoy the 2022 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival parkgoers must have both valid theme park admission and a park pass reservation.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
Visitors to Wekiva Island or Wekiwa Springs State Park might be used to seeing kayakers, canoers, paddleboarders, swimmers or even gators and otters splashing around the river. But from February 28 to March 5, 2022, they’ll be seeing canvases, palettes, paint brushes and easels dotting the river’s banks and boardwalks.
The Wekiva Paint Out is back for the 16th year.
The event draws world-class artists from around Florida and the U.S. who stay at the state park for the week and create incredible works of art en plein air from the gorgeous surroundings. Those works (some still wet!) populate a pop-up gallery at Wekiva Island and are available to view and purchase fresh from the easel.
Proceeds benefit the Wekiva Wilderness Trust and Keep Seminole Beautiful to encourage future protection of the river and its surroundings.
“This is such a unique event, both for our area and for art lovers,” said Mary Sue Weinaug, the event’s organizer. “The Wekiva River is always absolutely stunning, but it’s mesmerizing to see it through these artists’ eyes. The works they create are one-of-a-kind, and it’s all happening right in our backyard in Central Florida.”
Visitors can watch artists work from Monday, February 28, to Friday, March 4, around Wekiva Island and Wekiwa Springs State Park. They can also tour the gallery at Wekiva Island, which features new works daily, from February 28 through March 5.
The Wekiva Paint Out also includes special events:
The Live Auction from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 2. Guests can bid—and maybe get a deal—on pieces of art from each artist during this fast-paced, exciting evening.
Evening Nocturne Painting and Pasta Bar from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 4. Enjoy this special from Without a Paddle Café for $12.95/person and watch as the artists paint in the starlight at Wekiva Island.
The Quick Draw event from 12 to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5. Amateur artists are welcome to try their hand at creating a masterpiece alongside the pros to win cash prizes for $25/entry.
The All-Inclusive Gala celebration from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 5. Celebrate an amazing week of art and tour the gallery, meet the artists and enjoy live music, food and drink for $40/person or $70/couple.
There are sponsorship opportunities for businesses and organizations as well as patron opportunities for individuals, which include tickets to special events throughout the week.
In addition to celebrating art, Weinaug said, the week is meant to support sustainability, two core tenets of Wekiva Island.
Keep Seminole Beautiful sponsors regular river cleanups on the Wekiva. The Wekiva Wilderness Trust is a volunteer organization that supports the state park. The group aims to build a Serenity Garden at Wekiwa Springs State Park meant to create a unique sensory experience for people of all abilities and those with special needs.
For more information about the Wekiva Paint Out, visit the official site.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond the Wekiva Paint Out by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
Camping World Stadium is excited to announce its first Orlando Tacos and Margaritas Festival where it will shell out tons of tantalizing tacos and myriad flavors of margaritas to festival-goers on Saturday, April 16. Tickets are on sale now.
In addition to indulging in chef-crafted signature tacos and margarita pairings, festival-goers will also enjoy live professional wrestling, live DJs and musical performances by Hayden Coffman, country music’s next big artist, featuring his signature down-home country-pop and catchy lyrics, and 30 local artists will showcase their arts and crafts along the stadium concourse. Kids’ activities, including face painting, will also be available on site.
A trio of ticket options are available through Ticketmaster.com. Day-of-event general admission tickets are $20. Ultimate and VIP admission purchases are available in advance only. Children under 12 are free.
Ultimate VIP Admission // $99 + applicable fees
o Includes admission, (3) margaritas, taco bar, a festival t-shirt – gates open at 11 a.m.
VIP Admission // $59 + applicable fees
o Includes admission, (2) margaritas, a festival t-shirt – gates open at 11 a.m.
General Admission // $12 + applicable fees //
o Includes admission – gates open at 12 p.m.
Don’t Forget the Orlando Tacos and Margaritas Festival fine print…
All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.
All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges.
For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit CampingWorldStadium.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office).
The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond the Orlando Tacos and Margaritas Festival by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
If you are already heading in for the races and looking for a way to boost your race day experience, the UNOH Fanzone is THE destination for a one-of-a-kind experience!
UNOH Fanzone highlights include:
Pre-Race Access for Driver Introductions
Driver Q&A’s and VIP Appearances
Live Entertainment All Weekend
See the Grid up-close
Sign the Iconic Start/Finish Line
Access to the DAYTONA 500 Pre-Race Show Featuring Luke Combs
And so much more!
Tickets start at $30 for attendees ages 13 and up while children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult with a ticket.
The 2022 DIRTcar Nationals is the 51st Anniversary of Volusia Speedway Park’s showcase event, an extravaganza of DIRTcar racing featuring the nation’s four premier short-track racing divisions: The World of Outlaws Nos Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series, the Super DIRTcar Series, and the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds, alongside the All-Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Cars and the DIRTcar Late Models.
Each night is a doubleheader with a complete show of heat races, last chance showdowns, and features for two divisions.
Plus, the DIRTcar Nationals midway offers an enhanced experience with an incredible variety of food and merchandise vendors from across the nation.
From February 18 to 21 Otronicon, the interactive technology expo and science festival, returns to the Orlando Science Center with virtual reality, robots, simulators, video games, guest speakers, competitions, workshops, live shows, demonstrations and so much more!
Otronicon, presented by UCF Office of Research, is back fully onsite and in-person this year to offer a unique opportunity for everyone to experience and explore how science and technology is helping us all move forward together.
Participants can operate highly specialized surgical robots, explore fascinating STEM careers, and discover how the latest advancements in immersive virtual reality are helping us make the world a better place.
For example, see how the immersive experiences at the Walt Disney World Resort are made possible by utilizing science and technology in a wide variety of ways. Then explore a virtual nature park through the fully immersive CAVEs exhibit, thanks to the team at the University of Central Florida. Trekkies, if you’re imagining the holodeck, you’re on the right track. And if you’d rather deconstruct technology than interact with it, “Take it Apart” is your opportunity to take peek behind the curtain and see what goes on behind the screens.
Otronicon continues to evolve alongside the innovators we feature every year. This year, the event begins its expansion into a community-wide science festival. Smaller community events prior to Otronicon will set the stage for engagement and exploration on how technology is changing our lives.
The event is also focused on promoting groups that are historically underrepresented in STEM fields. There will be workshops hosted by Black Architects in the Making, Black Orlando Tech, the Society of Women Engineers and many others. Otronicon will also host panel discussions on diversity in STEM and building inclusive communities in the science and technology sectors.
In addition to Walt Disney World, participants include returning favorites like AdventHealth for Children, University of Central Florida, U.S. Navy/Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD), and FIRST Robotics. Otronicon welcomes new partners like Rake Technologies, Inc., Soulcade Interactive, LLC, Burns & McDonnell and the Manufacturers Association of Central Florida and many more.
There is a greater focus on live shows this year with performances by WeFlip Entertainment using acrobatics to illustrate physics and Spheres Bubble Show with a fusion of art, science and magic.
Guests will be able to explore the all-new exhibit, Science Fiction, Science Future, which showcases the innovations that classic science fiction predicted for our future while you imagine what comes next. Tablet computers, GPS, automatic doors and even biometric health data tracking were all just figments of the imagination when they first appeared on Star Trek in the 1960s. Now, these devices are commonplace. What technological wonders await us tomorrow? Step inside this exhibit and find out.
Otronicon began in 2006 as an opportunity to explore how videogame technology was impacting how you live, learn, work and play. If you like to game, Otronicon is still the place for you. From the game developer showcase to competitions by Powder Keg Games, there is something to satisfy every console jockey. Otronicon welcomes all lifelong learners, from the tech curious to the seriously savvy. Regardless of your background, whether you work in the tech industry or just have a passion for discovery, this event will engage your mind and spark your curiosity with demonstrations of exoskeleton devices, planetary tours, animal encounters and so much more.
OTRONICON HOURS, ADMISSION & MORE
Otronicon is open February 18–22 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to Otronicon is FREE for OSC members, $21 for adults, $19 for seniors and students, and $15 for youth (ages 2-11). For more information, please call 407.514.2000.
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Face coverings are currently required for all visitors, ages 3 and up, regardless of vaccination status. For more information visit www.osc.org/reopening-plan/
The Valentine’s Day planning crunch is HERE, and I am sharing some last-minute ways to spend ways with your special someone On the Go in MCO!
On the Go in MCO: Last Minute Valentine’s Day
Teatro Martini February 10-14, 7:30 pm at 6400 Carrier Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Spice up date night with some Vegas-inspired entertainment at Teatro Martini for Valentine’s Day!
From February 10-12 and on February 14, Teatro Martini will be offering a couple’s discount package for its Valentine’s Day-themed show. For only $99, couples will receive two tickets to the dinner show, a gorgeous rose, and free entry into Jewel Speakeasy.
The Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. is hosting a Salty Doughnut Beer Pairing Date Night where you can enjoy four beers that will pair with four donuts. You can choose to enjoy this offering on-site with Cupid Bingo date night or at home with a 16 oz can of each beer to share.
Valentine’s Day at SAK is always a special way to treat your best gal or guy! The Valentine’s Show is a 90-minute version of their popular improv show that will have you laughing until it hurts. You’ll see top-billed pros perform fan-favorite improvised challenges, with a little love sprinkled on top.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond Valentine’s Day by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando is inviting all pet lovers to join together at Orlando’s largest pet festival and parade “Paws in the Park” returning to beautiful Lake Eola Park on Saturday, February 12 from 10 am-4 pm.
Paws in the Park supports the mission of Pet Alliance, the region’s oldest and largest animal welfare agency, to educate, shelter, place, and heal pets and their families with compassionate, responsible care, and funds raised from the hugely popular event will help Pet Alliance save over 5,200 dogs and cats this year by providing shelter, care and love until they find their forever home.
Kicking off at 10 am is the Fundraising Awards, followed by the signature Pet Costume Contest with celebrity judges and cash prizes (New Themes: Stars of Film & TV, Favorite Food, Dogs with Jobs). Participants and their furry family members can register online and invite their friends and family to join them for the special award ceremony, costume contest, and festivities.
Then, all attendees and their fur pals will enjoy a full day of both “human” and “canine” activities. Activities include the return of the famous dock diving for dogs, lure courses, beer garden, a variety of food trucks and shopping, pet products, and more, plus plenty of pet adoption opportunities. Pet Alliance’s mobile vet unit will also be on-site and providing free vaccines.
“We are extra happy about the return of our Paws in the Park festival this year,” says Pet Alliance Executive Director Steve Bardy. “After what has undoubtedly been an extremely challenging year for us and for many, we could not think of anything better than gathering together outside with our incredible animal loving community and celebrating the deep love we all have for our furry family members and friends at what is always a fun-filled and memorable day for everyone.”
This month Disney Springs invites you to Celebrate Soulfully and ignite your senses as you immerse yourself in culturally inspired dining for brunch and happy hour, spirited music performed by Motown in Motion, House of Blues folk art, and more!
Music and Ambience
Smooth Sounds joins the Disney Springs lineup for an evening of classic blues and rock tunes.
Jazzin’ It UpSwing on by for some jazz and good vibrations.
Music of Africa will get your feet moving to African dance music, covers to African favorites, and original songs
ReggaeTune into the soulful Reggae-inspired tunes of Jamaican musicians.
Cooking Soulfully
After you’ve worked up an appetite from all that excitement, keep an eye out for featured menu items spotlighting soul food dishes and the talented chefs who create them.
Indulge in Limited-Time Offerings at Vivoli il Gelato.
D-Luxe BurgerSpicy Caribbean Jerk Burger
The GanacherySoulfully Sweet Pralines
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar BarLimited-Time Offerings
Polite PigFried Plantains and Chicken with Pikliz
Shop with Intent
Be inspired and be you with a curated collection of Disney merchandise featuring some of your favorite films and Disney characters including Princess Tiana, Joe Gardner from Soul, Black Panther, and more.
World of Disney – Find your spark with character-inspired clothing, accessories, toys and more.
Super Hero Headquarters – Immerse yourself in the heroic world of Wakanda’s Warrior King with apparel and accessories fit for the on-the-go hero.
You can also find great offerings across Disney Springs that support Black-owned business or have promotions especially for Black History Month.
Sephora Supports Black-Owned Businesses
Lovepop We Are Black History Playpop Card by Anthony Conley
UNDER ARMOUR BRAND HOUSE is where you can shop the Black History Month CollectionJanuary 28 through March 11, 2022
Chapel Hats
SugarBoo
Bowes Candles is offering $5 Off Candle-Making Class through February 28, 2022
Art and Soulfully
During Black History Month, Disney Springs has so many experiences that will ignite your senses as you explore art and have a whole lot of fun!
Art of Disney Animator Spotlight
Disney PhotoPass Studio A Soulful Souvenir
Artist Showcase – Timothy Adebule “Bushman #1”
Snap a picture with Disney Springs’ newest mural featuring artwork created by Bruce Smith, executive producer and creator of the new Disney+ series, Proud Family – Louder and Prouder.
House of BluesFolk Art & Visual Blues
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
The Silver Spurs Riding Club will be hosting the 148th Silver Spurs Rodeo on February 18 – 20, 2022, at Osceola Heritage Park!
Monster Bulls will be hosted by the Silver Spurs Riding Club on Saturday, February 12th. They’re fierce. They’re feisty. They’re bred to buck! Monster Bulls is a one-night-only event featuring the biggest and baddest Silver Spurs bulls as they go head-to-head with local cowboys hoping for a big payout
For the first time in history, fans can now experience all Silver Spurs Rodeo events with an annual pass!
Fans don’t have to miss a single buck while saving their bucks, with a savings of $45 in admission per person! Annual passes are available for purchase online at www.SilverSpursRodeo.com.
During the performances, rodeo fans will watch contestants from all over the nation compete in rodeo’s seven traditional events: bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, women’s barrel racing, steer wrestling, and team roping for an entire year of bragging rights and $55,000 in cash. Plus, rodeo fans will be entertained by our rodeo clown and talented Silver Spurs Quadrille team, who perform a square dance on horseback, something the club has performed since its inception 80 years ago.
“We are excited to kick off our rodeo season with extreme bull riding at Monster Bulls and the 148th Silver Spurs Rodeo with seven traditional rodeo events we have shared with our fans for 80 years,” said Dustin Bronson, 2021-22 Big Boss of the Silver Spurs Riding Club. “We are thrilled this year to bring an excellent value to our rodeo fans by offering an annual pass, so they can come out and experience great rodeo action at an excellent value all year long for the entire family.”
Silver Spurs Rodeo Full Schedule
Friday, February 12, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.
Monster Bulls, extreme bull riding at the Silver Spurs Arena
$20, children 10 years and under are free w/paying adult
Friday, February 18, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.
Silver Spurs Rodeo at the Silver Spurs Arena
Rodeo Day, all Osceola County School District student receive free admission
$25, children 10 years and under are free w/paying adult
Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 11:00 a.m.
Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade at 11:00 a.m. in downtown St. Cloud
Free, celebrates heritage and tradition of rodeo in Osceola County
Saturday, February 19, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.
Silver Spurs Rodeo at the Silver Spurs Arena
$25, children 10 years and under are free w/paying adult
Sunday, February 20, 2022, at 2:00 p.m.
Silver Spurs Rodeo at the Silver Spurs Arena
$20, children 10 years and under are free w/paying adult
To minimize touch points and guarantee seating, the Silver Spurs Club encourages fans to buy tickets in advance online, as limited tickets will be available at the box office. All rodeo tickets include free admission to the Osceola County Fair.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond the Silver Spurs Rodeo by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
“Dragons & Fairies” debuting at Harry P. Leu Gardens from January 28 through March 6, 2022. A moving story centering around an adolescent fairy and her dragon friend unfolds as live actors in beautiful costumes take audiences on a ¾ mile theatrical journey.
Along the way, large-scale lighting installations, lots of surprises, and nine animatronic dragons await.
Presented by Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies and the creators of “Dazzling Nights”, “Down the Rabbit Hole” and the annual IMMERSE festival in Orlando comes to another fantastical, family-friendly journey that will inspire audiences with wonder, awe, friendship, and adventure.
“‘Dragons & Fairies’ is a journey, unlike anything audiences, have seen before,” says Creative City Project Executive Director Cole NeSmith. “It has been our goal to continually create safe, memorable, inspiring, spectacular events for audiences of all ages amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Following the massive success of ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ earlier this year, we are excited to now transform Leu Gardens from the winter wonderland it is now with ‘Dazzling Nights’ to a fantastical world of adventure with ‘Dragons & Fairies’, which we promise to be an immersive, theatrical experience not to be missed.”
Dragons & Fairies at Leu Gardens
LOCATION: Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803
DATES: January 28 – March 6, 2022 (Wednesday through Sunday)
TICKETS: Tickets are $22 per person on Wednesday and Thursday and $25 per person Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Purchase at www.dragonsorlando.com.