UK pop star Sam Bailey, who recently wrapped her “Sing My Heart Out” tour in support of her second album, visited LEGOLAND Florida Resort on July 8 with husband Craig, their three children, Tommy, Brooke and Miley, mum Jackie and several close friends during a weeks-long Florida holiday celebrating her 40th birthday.
The “X Factor” winner enjoyed a stay in the popular LEGOLAND Hotel’s LEGO Friends suite, plus a private tour of the resort’s Model Shop, where Master Model Builders create and repair the many elaborate LEGO models on display throughout the theme park.
Sam autographed a star made of LEGO bricks for the hotel’s wall of fame, which includes autographs from celebrities such as singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow, actress-singer Jennifer Hudson and broadcaster Megyn Kelly. In appreciation of her visit, the Florida resort presented Sam with a mosaic of her 2013 debut single, “Skyscraper,” made out of more than 600 LEGO pieces.
Sam and friends ended the evening at the Winter Haven, Fla., vacation destination as special guests of LEGOLAND Knight Lights, the park’s exclusive summertime special event.
All this month the LEGOLAND Florida Resort is honoring real-life heroes dedicated to keeping our cities safe with FREE, single-day theme park admission. In addition, eligible personnel can purchase tickets for up to four additional guests at a 50% discount.
This promotion to recognize these heroes is open to active and retired law enforcement, fire and rescue, and EMT/EMS personnel working in the United States.
Eligible positions for this special offer include:
Fire and rescue first responders,
Emergency medical services employees (EMT/EMS),
Municipal and county police and sheriff’s officers,
Highway patrol officers,
Corrections officers,
State and federal law enforcement officers,
Fish and wildlife field officers,
U.S. Forest Service rangers,
National Park Service officers,
Homeland Security agents, and
Environmental protection officers.
LEGOLAND Water Park admission can be added to this special offer for a $20-per-ticket upgrade. Note that the water park is only open select dates in May.
To receive complimentary and discounted tickets, eligible personnel must visit the LEGOLAND Florida Resort ticket windows in person on the day of their visit and present their employee ID or professional organization membership card. This offer is not available online, by telephone or through ticket resellers, and is valid through Wednesday, May 31, 2017.
As fans throughout the galaxy celebrate the Star Wars saga today, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is announcing an exciting new addition coming to its LEGO Star Wars MINILAND area in 2018 – an all-new LEGO display inspired by the worldwide blockbuster “Star Wars – Episode VII: The Force Awakens.”
LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens MINILAND Model Display will feature several scenes re-created with thousands of LEGO bricks, including memorable movie moments with Rey, Finn, Poe, Kylo Ren and BB-8, enhanced with lights, sound effects and animation. More details about this 2018 expansion project will be shared in the coming months.
LEGO Star Wars Days Return This Weekend to LEGOLAND Florida for Double the Fun in 2017
Meanwhile, LEGO Star Wars Days returns for four days of fun at LEGOLAND Florida Resort starting this weekend! Authorized by Lucasfilm, the 2017 event doubles the fun on two weekends this year:
Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
It’s the only LEGO Star Wars theme park event in Central Florida!
Photo/Chip Litherland for Merlin Entertainments Group/LEGOLAND Florida Resort
In MINILAND USA, kids can explore some of the most famous scenes from the Star Wars saga made out of 1.5 million LEGO bricks, including detailed displays inspired by the first six blockbuster films, plus life-size LEGO models of Darth Vader, Darth Maul and R2-D2.
Kids also can:
Create a giant LEGO Star Wars mural, brick by brick
Build their own LEGO Star Wars model
Search for LEGO droids throughout MINILAND USA
Learn tips and tricks from our LEGO Master Model Builders
Build the world’s largest LEGO Yoda model
Meet LEGO Darth Vader
Dress up as their favorite LEGO Star Wars character and participate in our intergalactic costume parade (ages 12 and under)
…and much, much more, including giveaways, fun photo ops, opportunities to win LEGO Star Wars prizes and exclusive retail offers.
New this year: Are you more rookie or Wookiee? Test your family’s Star Wars knowledge and LEGO building skills against other families during a just-for-fun competition!
All activities will take place both weekends and are included with all forms of park admission. No extra ticket or Jedi mind tricks required!
For more information, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, on-site accommodations, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP experiences, military discounts and much more, visit www.LEGOLAND.com/florida, or call (877) 350-5346.
LEGOLAND Florida will be hosting three days of high-energy fun, music, and meet & greets during the inaugural KIDZ BOP Weekend April 28-30, 2017 that is #BuiltForKids.
The KIDZ BOP Kids will kick off their 2017 Best Time Ever tour with two live concerts daily at the newly-renamed KIDZ BOP Stadium, an outdoor venue within the LEGOLAND theme park on the shore of Lake Eloise. The family-friendly shows will include songs from their latest album, “KIDZ BOP 34,” and other favorite pop hits that will get kids and parents dancing along. Meet-and-greet opportunities* with The KIDZ BOP Kids – Ahnya, Cooper, Freddy, Isaiah, Julianna and Sierra – will follow each concert.
All activities during KIDZ BOP Weekend, including the concerts and meet-and-greets*, are included with all forms of park admission. No extra ticket required!
KIDZ BOP Weekend
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Friday, April 28
Saturday, April 29
Sunday, April 30
The KIDZ BOP Kids Live in Concert, 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., The KIDZ BOP Stadium, Pirates’ Cove
The KIDZ BOP Kids Live in Concert, noon and 4 p.m., The KIDZ BOP Stadium, Pirates’ Cove
The KIDZ BOP Kids Live in Concert, noon and 4 p.m., The KIDZ BOP Stadium, Pirates’ Cove
The KIDZ BOP Kids Meet-and-Greet*, 12:30 and 4:30 p.m., next to Lakeside Sandwich Co.
The KIDZ BOP Kids Meet-and-Greet*, 1 and 5 p.m., next to Lakeside Sandwich Co.
The KIDZ BOP Kids Meet-and-Greet*, 1 and 5 p.m., next to Lakeside Sandwich Co.
Concerts and meet-and-greets* included with all forms of park admission
* Space is limited. First come, first served
According to Victor Zaraya, president of KIDZ BOP, fans can look forward to an entirely new KIDZ BOP experience at the 2017 show. The ultimate family-friendly live concert will feature brand-new songs and choreography, plus several fun surprises. The tour is headlined by the newest group of KIDZ BOP Kids, who were introduced in January with the release of “KIDZ BOP 34.” The KIDZ BOP Kids have been named Billboard Magazine’s “No. 1 Kids’ Artist” for the past seven consecutive years.
“[This] is our biggest show yet,” Zaraya said. “KIDZ BOP’s Best Time Ever tour provides returning fans with many fun surprises and new fans with their very first concert experience.”
In December 2016, KIDZ BOP and LEGOLAND Florida Resort announced a multi-year alliance making KIDZ BOP the official music partner for the popular Central Florida vacation destination. In their music video for “The Weekend Whip,” the theme song for the “LEGO® NINJAGO®: Masters of Spinjitzu” TV show, The KIDZ BOP Kids demonstrate five “signature” ninja hand moves guests can use to defeat villains and capture a high score on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a groundbreaking new attraction that anchors the theme park’s recently opened LEGO NINJAGO World expansion.
For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, on-site accommodations, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP experiences, military discounts and much more, visit www.LEGOLAND.com/florida, or call (877) 350-5346.
Super Hero. Crime-fighter. Master Builder. LEGO Batman is all of those and so much more.
With the scene-stealing star of The LEGO Movie starring in his very own big-screen adventure, The LEGO Batman Movie, from Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Animation Group and LEGO System A/S, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will celebrate the Caped Crusader with an exclusive new event taking place March 4-5 and 11-12 at the place #BuiltForKids.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort Hosts LEGO Batman Movie Days
Developed with The LEGO Group and Warner Bros. Consumer Products, The LEGO Batman Movie Days promise epic fun for kids and families, with everything centered on the beloved crime-fighter who “only works in black. And sometimes, very, very dark gray.”
Fans can meet Gotham City’s iconic DC super hero in LEGO form only at LEGOLAND theme parks and LEGOLAND Discovery Centers in 2017. Included with all forms of LEGOLAND Florida theme park admission, including annual passes, The Movie Days will include an exclusive photo op with LEGO Batman, a Batman-themed scavenger hunt throughout MINILAND USA and multiple hands-on LEGO building activities inspired by The LEGO Batman Movie.
During the two event weekends, fans and passholders will receive special LEGO Batman retail gifts with qualifying purchases while supplies last. Visit The Big Shop and LEGO Studio Store for a huge selection of LEGO building sets, limited-edition LEGO Minifigures, costumes, accessories and more from the smash-hit movie.
As fans of The LEGO Batman Movie, I can say that we are incredibly excited to check out these special weekends at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort!!!
For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades, military discounts, on-site accommodations and much more, visit www.LEGOLAND.com/florida, or call (877) 350-5346.
The LEGOLAND Florida Resort is rounding out their AWESOME year of expansion with the opening of NINJAGO World, a new resort, new partnerships, and several new special events throughout the year!
New in 2017: LEGOLAND Florida
LEGO NINJAGO World – Spring 2017
The newest immersive area of LEGOLAND Florida inspired by the popular LEGO building sets and television show “LEGO NINJAGO: Masters of Spinjitzu” on January 12, 2017. will be filled with hands-on outdoor activities, LEGO building experiences, and the centerpiece LEGO NINJAGO The Ride which is an innovative attraction that combines 3D computer animation with 4D effects and groundbreaking technology.
LEGOLAND Beach Retreat Resort–Summer 2017
LEGOLAND Florida will open their second resort, LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, on April 7th inviting families to stay in a village-style vacation resort with 83 beach-themed bungalows each with whimsical LEGO décor inside and out themed to popular LEGO Minifigures. The resort has a focus on outdoor play, and the bungalows are grouped into ‘coves’ that feature outdoor play areas that are within the view of the bungalows’ shaded patios, where mom and dad can relax while kids play.
LEGOLAND Florida 2017 Special Events
LEGOLAND Florida is known for hosting special events throughout the year that are filled with special characters and activities which are included in regular park admission, and in 2017 they’re adding two new events and expanding the dates of existing favorites!
The LEGO Batman™ Movie Days – March 4-5 & 11-12: New for 2017Super hero. Crime-fighter. Master Builder. LEGO Batman™ is all of those and so much more. Come meet Gotham City’s Caped Crusader during this celebration of the Warner Bros. feature film, which will include photo ops with the scene-stealing star, a themed scavenger hunt and LEGO Batman™-inspired LEGO build activities.
KIDZ BOP Weekend – April 28-30: New for 2017The No. 1 music brand for kids will deliver three days of high-energy fun during this inaugural event exclusive to LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Guests can enjoy the KIDZ Bop Kids live in concert at The KIDZ Bop Theater as part of their 2017 tour, including songs from the forthcoming “KIDZ BOP 34” album and their version of the LEGO NINJAGO theme song, “The Weekend Whip.”
LEGO Star Wars™ Days – May 6-7 & 13-14: Visit a galaxy far, far away during this Lucasfilm authorized event, which features some of the most famous scenes from the Star Wars saga made out of 1.5 million LEGO bricks in the LEGO Star Wars MINILAND Model Display. Activities will include appearances by costumed Star Wars fans, LEGO building activities inspired by Star Wars characters, settings and stories, and a Star Wars™-themed costume parade for kids. It’s the only LEGO Star Wars theme park event in Florida!
PHOTO / Chip Litherland for LEGOLAND Florida Resort
LEGOLAND Knight Lights – Select dates in July, including Tuesday, July 4:When the sun goes down, the fun goes up during LEGOLAND Florida’s signature summertime event! The Good Knight offers extended park hours, uniquely LEGO light displays, opportunities to build alongside our Master Model Builders, and meet-and-greet opportunities with one of the heroes of LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS! Plus, enjoy a spectacular themed fireworks show over Lake Eloise to end the night, with a special patriotic show planned for the Fourth of July.
Firefighter Fridays – October 6, 13, 20 and 27: The National Fire Protection Association returns the annual kickoff of to NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week and a month-long celebration of real-life heroes. The event includes fun, educational activities that teach kids the importance of fire safety with opportunities to meet firefighters who keep our communities safe.
Photo: LEGOLAND Florida
Brick or Treat – Select dates in October: The park’s annual, all-day Halloween event promises lots of spooky, kooky, fun for the entire family that includes larger-than-life LEGO models, a costume parade, multiple LEGO build activities, trick-or-treating (with lots of candy!), exclusive LEGO character meet-and-greets, a Halloween-themed fireworks show, and much more!
Photo: LEGOLAND Floirda
Christmas Bricktacular – Select dates in December: The LEGOLAND Florida Resort is filled with festive fun to celebrate the season with fun touches like a giant Christmas tree made of thousands of LEGO and DUPLO bricks, holiday-themed scavenger hunts, LEGO building activities, meet-and-greets with LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier, sparkling lights, beautiful decorations, and even the occasional snow flurry! At the end of each Christmas Bricktacular, you can end your night with the not-so-silent-night fireworks spectacular choreographed to classic holiday music.
Kids’ New Year’s Eve – Sunday, December 31 only: Ring in the New Year with a one-night-only party built for kids, featuring an exclusive dance party, park-wide LEGO building activities, special entertainment, and an awesome fireworks show that kicks off the ‘kid-friendly’ countdown to a giant LEGO “brick drop” before midnight!
Don’t forget that I will be sharing my favorite picks for 2017 at the Theme Parks this Friday on icFlorida’s Best Bets on WFTV!
Over at Legoland Florida there are some new experiences during the holidays and Christmas Bricktacular to help make your holiday season a memorable one.
In addition to Christmas Bricktacular beginning on December 17, this weekend they began offering the LEGO® Santa’s Breakfast and LEGO® Santa’s Christmas Workshop. I recently had the opportunity to attend these events and they were so much fun, especially if you have Lego fans in your family (which I do).
Lego Santa’s Breakfast
Breakfast is held every Saturday and Sunday through December 18 and then daily December 24-December 31 from 9:00-10:00 AM. Lego Santa hosts you and your family at the historical Magnolia Mansion. When you arrive, you get a picture taken with him that you’ll get to take home and are shown to an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet.
Magnolia MansionLego SantaFamily Picture
Breakfast included bacon and sausage, eggs, french toast, waffles, biscuits and gravy, and a seasonal bread pudding. All of the food and drinks are set up in the mansion. There were Lego displays all around to check out as you filled your plate.
Legos are present your table (make sure to look inside the giant mini fig head). During our time, we were visited by Mrs. Claus, Lego Toy Soldier, and Lego Buddy the Elf. We had a very deep conversation with Mrs. Claus about our favorite cookies.
Table DecorationsToy SoldierMrs. ClausBuddy
Kids are given some paper to write a letter to Santa and each family receives a Lego ornament.
There are also several games set up on the lawn.
This event is a great way to start your day in Legoland. It costs $35 per person plus tax. Annual passholders can receive a discount.
Lego Santa’s Workshop
The workshop takes place in the afternoons from 1:00-2:30 on the same days as the breakfast. When you arrive to Magnolia Mansion, you’ll be given an elf hat Lego pin and be given the opportunity to take a fun picture with Lego Santa and Lego Toy Soldier.
Next, cookies and milk are available inside. Out on the tables, each person had a bottle of water and a bag of Legos to use during the workshop. Then it was time for a master model builder to give us instruction on building the mystery figure in our bags.
Mystery BagMaster Model Builder LukeWhat could it be?
During the lesson we learned proper terminology for the different pieces. Our master model builder, Luke, and the other model citizens were great at answering questions. Afterwards, we were free to take pictures around the mansion and they gave us a cool lego case to carry home our figures. We also got the picture that we took earlier with Lego Santa and Toy Soldier.
My family and I really enjoyed our workshop time. Since the figure itself was on the easy side, even guests who have never built Lego models would be able to follow and successfully complete it. The workshop costs $35 per person plus tax.
Both of these premium upgrades are a lot of fun if you’re looking for something special to add to your day at Legoland Florida during the holidays or when you attend Christmas Bricktacular. The Model Citizens were all wonderful to hang out with at both events. Plus you get some pretty fun souvenirs to take home. Check out Legoland Florida’s website for more information on these special events.
Get AWESOME LEGOLAND Florida Resort Deals On Brick Friday
Sign Up to Save on Annual Passes, Tickets & Overnight Stays from Black Friday to Cyber Monday!
This holiday shopping season, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is giving thanks to fans with an awesome assortment of deals and discounts starting on Black Friday (Friday, Nov. 25) and continuing through Cyber Monday (Monday, Nov. 28).
That’s right — instead of one can’t-miss deal on each of the traditional days for extraordinary savings, the place #BuiltForKids is launching multiple, simultaneous offerson the day we’ve dubbed Brick Friday. Give the gift of fun with savings on everything from multiple-use tickets to annual passes, and stays at the popular LEGOLAND Hotel and the eagerly awaited LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.
Here’s what’s in store:
Visit LEGOLAND Florida twice & the second day is FREE!
Purchase a theme park ticket for the low price of $71 (plus tax) to enjoy all the festive fun of our annual holiday party, Christmas Bricktacular, then come back for free to “become the ninja” when the all-new LEGO® NINJAGO® World opens Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017!
This exclusive ticket only can be purchased online and cannot be combined with other offers or transferred to existing reservations. The first theme park visit must occur Dec. 17-18, 24-31, and the second visit must occur between Jan. 1 and April 6, 2017. Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park is not included. Maximum six tickets per purchase.
Get an Awesomer Annual Pass at the Awesome Pass price!
Purchase an Awesomer Annual Pass (valued at $149 plus tax) for the Awesome Annual Pass price of $99 plus tax — a $50 savings! Benefits include a year of unlimited admission to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, LEGOLAND Water Park, The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando, and Atlanta’s LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
You also get free parking, a collector’s edition welcome kit, early access to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, a 10 percent discount on theme park dining, retail purchases, stays at LEGOLAND Hotel and the all-new LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades and Premium Play Bands, plus $15 off theme park tickets for up to six guests.
The special $99 price is only available online and is valid only for new annual pass purchases and cannot be combined with other offers. Maximum six Awesomer Annual Passes per purchase. Please note that passes must be activated in person at the theme park within 60 days of purchase.
Annual passholders save big at LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat!
Current annual passholders can save 30 percent off a stay at the “Five-Gazillion-Star” LEGOLAND Hotel, including all room types and themes, and the whimsical bungalows at LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, which is set to open in mid-2017. This unbeatable deal is valid for LEGOLAND Hotel stays from Jan. 1 through April 6, 2017, and for LEGOLAND Beach Retreat stays from June 1 through Sept. 3, 2017.
These discounts cannot be combined with other offers or transferred to existing reservations. An active annual pass must be presented at check-in to receive the discounted rate.
Stay awhile and save!
Meanwhile, through the end of December, non-passholders can take 20 percent off an exclusive room-and-ticket package for stays at LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.
Each package requires a minimum two-night stay and includes a two-day ticket to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park per person, with the second day free! Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park is sold separately.
Stays at both accommodations include a buffet breakfast each morning for all guests listed on the reservation (not including check-in day) and exclusive early access to the theme park.
The 20 percent discount is available for LEGOLAND Hotel packages from Jan. 2 through May 26, 2017, and for LEGOLAND Beach Retreat packages from June 1 through Sept. 3, 2017. Be sure to check the resort’s operating calendar online before booking as the theme park is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays during select seasons.
The fine print
To be among the first to participate in these incredible deals, sign up now at www.LEGOLAND.com/brickfriday. Everyone signed up as of Thursday, Nov. 24 will receive an email with links to the eligible offers starting Friday, Nov. 25.
All offers are subject to limited availability and may sell out. Note that due to fraud protections, the same credit card cannot be used more than once within a 24-hour period, so shop wisely!
For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades, military discounts, on-site accommodations and much more, visit www.LEGOLAND.com/florida.
Enjoy fall for free with Busch Gardens’ 2017 Fun Card
Pay for a Day and Get the Rest of This Year — and all of 2017 — FREE
The holiday season is finally here and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is inviting guests to experience fall for free with the purchase of a 2017 Fun Card. With Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in residence startingNov. 25, now is the perfect time to kick off holiday celebrations and end the year with exciting thrills and attractions.
The 2017 Fun Card now is available for purchase. With the 2017 Fun Card, guests pay for one day and get all of 2017free. Plus, guests who purchase their 2017 Fun Card now can visit Busch Gardens for the remainder of 2016 for no additional cost, which including the annual holiday event, Christmas Town™.
Some of the great special events with Fun Card admission include:
2016
Christmas Town: Select dates November 25-December 31
Unwrap a beautiful family tradition at Christmas Town™, where Busch Gardens Tampa Bay transforms into a wonderland of entertainment and attractions, holiday shopping, festive treats and more than two million twinkling lights. New in 2016, the Christmas cheer begins with the all-new Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland where guests can meet Rudolph, Bumble, Yukon Cornelius and other characters from the classic family Christmas television special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. It continues at Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®, where Santa himself takes a break from his busy holiday schedule to meet and take photos with families in his private study. Guests will also have the opportunity to experience some of Busch Gardens’ most popular thrill rides, including Cheetah Hunt, SheiKra, Falcon’s Fury™ and the newest family spin coaster, Cobra’s Curse.
2017
Real Music:January 9 – March 4
Busch Gardens’ longest-running concert series returns Mondays through Saturdays from Jan. 9 to March 4. With two shows a day, the show features live music that spans six decades, from the 1950s to today. Musical fare includes soul, blues, country, pop and rock ‘n roll. Lineup includes:
Week of January 9 – Shirley Alston Reeves: Original Lead Singer Of The Shirelles
Week of January 16 – The Diamonds
Week of January 23 – The Platters
Week of January 30 – Fernando Varela
Week of February 6 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
Week of February 13 – Beginnings: The Ultimate Chicago Tribute Band
Week of February 20 – Micky Dolenz
Week of February 27– Lee Greenwood
Food & Wine Festival: Saturdays and Sundays, March 4 – April 30
Next spring, Busch Gardens’ Food & Wine Festival returns with an extended week of new unique culinary offerings and bigger concerts than ever! The park will be tempting guests with a variety of cuisine, wine, craft beer and live entertainment on Saturdays and Sundays from March 4 through April 30. Food and beverage is not included, but is available for an extra fee. Guests must be 21 or older to purchase alcoholic beverages. Line-up up to be announced at a later date.
Sesame Street Safari of Fun Kids Weekends: May 6, 7, 13, and 14
Created just for kids, the Sesame Street® Safari of Fun events feature animal encounters, parades, dance parties and even a few special guests. The first weekend will feature the cookie connoisseur himself, Cookie Monster and the second weekend will include a scavenger hunt for Ernie’s Rubber Duckies throughout the Safari of Fun play area. Character parades will take place at the top of every hour of the event. Plus, guests can expect kid-friendly music along with the chance to meet with Busch Gardens’ animal ambassadors.
Jack Hanna Weekend:May 27 – 28
Join “Jungle Jack” Hanna for two days of wild animal shows, autograph signings and special meet-and-greets when he visits Busch Gardens. The internationally-known animal expert will share animal facts and his travel tales during animalshows at the Stanleyville Theater.
Summer Nights:Select dates June 16 – August 6
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay kicks summer fun up a notch with extended hours, all-new entertainment and thrill rides – including the one-of-a-kind family spin coaster, Cobra’s Curse™. Guests can challenge world-class thrill rides in the DARK and end the night with a stunning finale.
Sesame Street Safari of Fun “Halloween” Kids Weekends: October 21, 22, 28, and 29
Sesame Street® Safari of Fun is hosting a Halloween party on the last two weekends of October! Enjoy festive arts and crafts, trick-or-treat candy stations and a hay bale maze.
Christmas Town: Select dates November 25-December 31
Unwrap a beautiful family tradition at Christmas Town™, where Busch Gardens transforms into a holiday wonderland of Christmastime entertainment and attractions, holiday shopping, treats and more than two million twinkling lights.
Busch Gardens will offer guests additional events and festivals throughout 2017, so stay tuned for more details.
The 2017 Busch Gardens Fun Card is $99 and is valid from the date of purchase through Dec. 31, 2017. Fun Cards, annual passes and single-day tickets are available online at buschgardens.com, at the Busch Gardens’ front gate or by calling(888) 800-5447.
For three weekends in October at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Firefighter Fridays return in 2016 conjunction with the National Fire Protection Association.
Come kick off NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week with fun, educational activities that teach kids the importance of fire safety on Firefighter Fridays held on October 14th, 21st, and 28th. You’ll also be able to meet some of the real-life firefighters who help keep Polk County safe.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years.”
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents the final year of a three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.
Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because NFPA’s survey data shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.
As a result of those and related findings, we’re addressing smoke alarm replacement this year with a focus on these key messages:
Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.
Sparky the Fire Dog® shows how to find out the age of a smoke alarm
LEGO Star Wars Days Takes Guests Out of This World for a Weekend
Two-Day Event Features Park-Wide LEGO Star Wars™ Themed Activities
The Force is strong with LEGOLAND Florida Resort as the anticipation builds for LEGO Star Wars Days presented by LEGO Club. During this exclusive, one-weekend-only event, guests can release their inner Jedi or Stormtrooper as they participate in a variety of immersive, themed activities. No extra ticket or Jedi mind tricks required.
The event will feature theLEGO Star Wars Miniland Model Display — seven of the most famous scenes from the six live-action Star Wars movies, as well as a scene from the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, all made out of 1.5 million LEGO bricks.
During LEGO Star Wars Days, fans are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite LEGO Star Wars characters and take part in an all-new parade. Those who dress the part will also have the chance to win a LEGO Star Wars prize pack. And, be warned, The Dark Side awaits those who stop in for a meet-and-greet with LEGO Darth Vader.
LEGO Star Wars set designer Jens Kronvold Frederiksen will host a live speaker session with an interactive Q&A and Master Model Builders will offer building tips. There will also be a LEGO Star Wars Mural Build and budding builders are encouraged to get creative during a competition build.
Each guest at LEGO Star Wars Day will have the opportunity to join LEGO Club and be the first to know all the new and exciting things coming from The LEGO Group and LEGOLAND Florida Resort.
This summer, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is inviting kids throughout the state to visit for FREE! That’s right — the awesome vacation destination #BuiltForKids has rolled out an exclusive, limited-time offer just for kids. Florida residents who buy a full-price, single-day adult ticket to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park and LEGOLAND Water Park get a kid’s ticket absolutely free.
LEGOLAND Florida Offer details:
This offer is available onlyonline now through Sunday, July 31, 2016.
Tickets are valid for visits through Monday, Sept. 5, 2016.
A maximum of three (3) free kids’ tickets can be redeemed per transaction.
Florida residency is required and will be verified with the credit card billing ZIP code.
Come see all the brick-tacular fun at the place where #AwesomeAwaits!
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group, Edward Linsmier
We’ve debuted two brand-new 4D movies, a fun new water park attraction, new models in MINILAND USA and lots of hands-on LEGO building activities inside the newly re-imagined Imagination Zone. Plus, our exclusive LEGOLAND Night Lights event continues every weekend through July – no extra ticket required!
LEGOLAND Florida Resort Partners with Autism Speaks
Partnership includes Central Florida Fundraising Walks, raising awareness, and a focus on making the vacation destination more accessible for guests with Autism
Expanding its efforts to accommodate guests with special needs, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is partnering with Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, to make its iconic, kid-centric theme park a more welcoming place for guests with autism.
Working closely with Autism Speaks, the vacation resort #BuiltForKids currently is installing a large panel of hands-on, sensory-stimulating activities in a quiet space within its theme park, the first of several planned projects designed to make LEGOLAND Florida Resort a more autism-friendly destination for children and families.
“Autism Speaks applauds the efforts of LEGOLAND Florida Resort to provide special accommodations so that guests on the autism spectrum can maximize their park experience,” said Karen Bacharach, senior director with Autism Speaks’ Southeastern Regional Office in Maitland, Fla. “When asked, our Central Florida volunteers were eager to offer some design considerations to help the resort be autism friendly.”
According to Aymee Good, brand manager at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, a recent refurbishment of the theme park’s Annual Pass processing center provided an ideal opportunity to create a safe, calming space for children with special needs, a project that quickly bloomed into multiple ideas among several departments to make the resort a more welcoming place for kids of all ages and abilities.
Under the partnership, Autism Speaks staff members and volunteers will consult on the development and installation of “quiet rooms” and other resort facilities designed to meet the needs of guests with autism. The organization also will help LEGOLAND Florida Resort create online “social stories” that will provide illustrated walkthroughs of its attractions, shows and other guest amenities, and will consult on other autism-friendly initiatives such as a park map designed for guests with special needs and possible revisions to its existing Guide for Guests with Disabilities.
To better educate LEGOLAND Florida Resort employees (known as “Model Citizens”) about the unique needs of guests on the autism spectrum, Autism Speaks staff members and volunteers will conduct training sessions at the resort at least twice a year and will supply educational material to be distributed to all new hires.
“We’re proud to say that we’re built for kids,” said Rex Jackson, director of Marketing & Sales at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. “By partnering with Autism Speaks and making these smart changes that will benefit so many families, we’re helping to ensure that our resort is truly built for all kids.”
On Saturday, April 23, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will sponsor the Kids Zone area during the Autism Speaks Walk at Tropicana Field in Tampa, Fla., and on Saturday, Nov. 12, during the Autism Speaks Walk at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs, Fla. The family friendly walks are an inspirational and impactful opportunity to raise money and awareness to help change the future for all those who struggle with autism. For more information, visit walknowforautismspeaks.org.
To learn more about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, VIP experiences, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities and themed accommodations at LEGOLAND Hotel, visit LEGOLAND.com/florida.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort Announces Five Big Projects to open by 2017
LEGOLAND Florida Resort announced their largest expansion in the history of the park as five big additions will be coming to the Resort by 2017.
With a new and exciting Resort opening, three attractions, and several upgrades to the LEGOLAND Florida Water Park there is a lot to look forward to at LEGOLAND!
LEGOLAND Beach Retreat – Opening mid 2017
Under construction now across the street from LEGOLAND Florida on Lake Dexter, the LEGOLAND BEACH RETREAT will have a completely different feel from the LEGOLAND Hotel while still providing the same level of extraordinary service and exclusive amenities.
The Resort is made up of 83 single-story duplex units, offering 166 separate accommodations that sleep up to five, that will create a village-style, lakefront retreat complete with a LEGO Lighthouse.
Amenities at the LEGOLAND Beach Retreat will include a themed pool, a sandy play area, a buffet-style restaurant, and complimentary transportation to and from the theme park when the Resort opens mid-2017.
LEGO NINJAGO World – opening early 2017
“LEGO NINJAGO: Masters of Spinjitzu,” is incredibly popular and the inspiration for the newest land coming to LEGOLAND Florida that invites guests to step into a magical, martial arts kingdom where they’ll experience a first-of-its-kind attraction that blends eye-popping, 3D computer animation, “4D” atmospheric effects and groundbreaking technology by Montreal-based Triotech.
The LEGO NINJAGO area will be located near Coastersaurus, and will have multiple hands-on, interactive experiences that will hone kids’ physical skills like NINJAGO heroes Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane, and Nya before their ultimate test on LEGO NINJAGO The Ride.
LEGO NINJAGO The Ride is the largest attraction in this area, and during the ride up to four guests per vehicle will create blasts of animated fireballs, lightning, shockwaves, and ice using nothing more than their hands as they travel through dojos mastering their skills before teaming up to defeat a powerful villain. Riders collect points and scores are displayed when each quest is complete.
The LEGO NINJAGO World is set to open in early 2017.
Creative Cove featuring Build-A-Boat and New LEGOLAND Water Park Amenities – Now Open
The LEGOLAND Water Park has just re-opened for the season with a new play & build area and upgraded amenities to make your next visit REALLY awesome!
The new Creative Cove Build-A-Boat is the newest attraction where kids can create and race LEGO watercraft through fast-flowing rivers alongside cheering crowds in a setting inspired by the popular LEGO City Coast Guard sets.
PHOTO / CHIP LITHERLAND
The Imagination Station has a new expansion that now lets younger model citizens build and play with colorful DUPLO bricks in a water-filled activity center.
PHOTO / CHIP LITHERLAND
Additional dining offerings, increased seating capacity and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the entire water park round out the all-new offerings for 2016.
“LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS 4D: The Book of Creativity – Opening May 26, 2016
Based on the new LEGO series of building sets and the just-launched TV show,“LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS 4D: The Book of Creativity” will join the rotation of current 4D movies shown in the Wells Fargo 4D Theater.
This all-new theatrical attraction is set in the futuristic Kingdom of Knighton and pits five young knights against the evil Jestro and his sidekick, the Book of Monsters, in a battle for control of a rare book of magic that gives its owner tremendous power.
“LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS 4D: The Book of Creativity” is a 12½-minute long, immersive experience combines 3D computer animation with “4D,” real-world effects that bring the high-tech action bursting off the screen and into the audience.
Elsewhere in the theme park, kids will discover six exclusive shields that unlock unique NEXO Powers within the LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS: Merlok 2.0 mobile app for iOS and Android devices.
LEGOLAND Night Lights – Summer 2016
On June 18, 2016, the LEGOLAND Florida Resort will debut its latest all-new event, which will be a celebration of summertime fun featuring extended park hours, meet-and-greet opportunities with some of your favorite LEGO characters, exclusive opportunities to build alongside LEGO Master Model Builders, and a brick-tacular NINJAGO fireworks display that will light the night above Lake Eloise with brilliant colors and triumphant music.
PHOTO / LEGOLAND Florida, Merlin Entertainments Group, Edward Linsmier
This event will be held exclusively at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort every Saturday and Sunday from June 18 to July 31, and is included with park admission.
PHOTO / Chip Litherland Photography for LEGOLAND Florida Resort
These five new projects mark the largest expansion of LEGOLAND Florida in its whirlwind 4 ½ years! It is amazing to see how far the park has come, and I am excited to see the new additions take it into the future..brick by brick.
For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, VIP experiences, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, and themed accommodations at LEGOLAND Hotel visit www.legoland.com/Florida.
Register Now for the Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Set for Saturday, April 16, the Annual Brick Dash 5K Community Event Benefits Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Fund for Women and Children
Combining family, fitness and fun, the annual Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk presented by Sun Newspapers returns to LEGOLAND Florida Resort on Saturday, April 16, benefiting the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Fund for Women and Children.
A Polk County tradition for more than two decades, the early morning event formerly known as the Citrus Classic invites runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to enjoy the splendor of LEGOLAND Florida Resort beginning at 7 a.m.
This year, kids and kids at heart will run, jog or walk past icons like The Orlando Eye, the newest LEGO model in Miniland, and participants are sure to find encouragement from Emmet and Wyldstyle, stars of “The LEGO® Movie 4D™ A New Adventure,” the resort’s dazzling new theatrical attraction in Fun Town.
“Supporting the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation’s Fund for Women and Children at the place built for kids is truly the perfect fit,” said David Johnson, new business development director for LEGOLAND parent company Merlin Entertainments and its creative division, Merlin Magic Making, as well as a Winter Haven Hospital Foundation trustee. “This year’s event is sure to be the most awesome yet.”
New this year to the Brick Dash 5K, participants 5 and under can compete in the 100 yard dash, while the Kids Half Mile is specially designed for participants 12 and under. Custom-made LEGO trophies will be given to first-, second- and third-place runners in each age category, plus first-place finishers in the overall male and female divisions, and for the masters male and female divisions. Every participant will receive a T-shirt and specially designed LEGO medal.
“We are thrilled and grateful to continue our partnership with LEGOLAND Florida Resort,” said Joel Thomas, president of the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation, “which allows us to keep this wonderful event fresh and fun for all while making a huge impact for the local women and children we serve.”
Registration is available at www.active.com or by calling the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation at (863) 292-4138. The fee for participants 13 and older is $35; the fee for children 12 and under is $25. A family of up to five participants is $99. Special corporate rates are offered; call the Foundation for more information. All Central Florida elementary schools will have the opportunity to participate in “Max’s School Challenge” by including a school name when registering. The elementary school with the most participants will receive a special visit from a LEGOLAND Florida Resort character, a special LEGO trophy and more.
Discounted, one-day admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort is offered to every Brick Dash participant for $30 plus tax. Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park also is available for an additional $15 per person. The special Brick Dash ticket prices are available only on Saturday, April 16.
Special thanks to Publix, Bright House Networks, Max98.3, Jarrett Ford of Winter Haven, and Today and Tonight Magazine for sponsoring this year’s event.
All this month the LEGOLAND Florida Resort is honoring real-life heroes dedicated to keeping our cities safe with FREE, single-day 
That’s right — instead of one can’t-miss deal on each of the traditional days for extraordinary savings, the place #BuiltForKids is launching multiple, simultaneous offerson the day we’ve dubbed Brick Friday. Give the gift of fun with savings on everything from multiple-use tickets to annual passes, and stays at the popular LEGOLAND Hotel and the eagerly awaited LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.
The Force is strong with LEGOLAND Florida Resort as the anticipation builds for LEGO Star Wars Days presented by LEGO Club. During this exclusive, one-weekend-only event, guests can release their inner Jedi or Stormtrooper as they participate in a variety of immersive, themed activities. No extra ticket or Jedi mind tricks required.
Combining family, fitness and fun, the annual Brick Dash 5K Run and Fun Walk presented by Sun Newspapers returns to LEGOLAND Florida Resort on