Sea World Orlando Archives - Page 4 of 8

SeaWorld Orlando New Year’s Eve Celebration

Celebrating New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld Orlando

Ring in 2014 SeaWorld Orlando style by celebrating our connection to the sea, sea life and the world we share! A spectacular musical celebration with DJs and live bands, plus a bold fireworks display, send a wave of welcome to the New Year ahead.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration™ is splashing waves of holiday spirit over the park (now nightly) the rest of December, and New Year’s Eve is included! Here in a wintery, watery wonderland, guests of all ages will enjoy loads of frosty fun as they watch stunning live shows inspired by the natural world, journey to the North Pole to meet Santa himself, then share a smile with a playful penguin at the South Pole while visiting the park’s newest attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin®!

Enjoy added fun on New Year’s Eve as SeaWorld Orlando stays open until 1 a.m. and features additional entertainment. From a DJ spinning Latin-style tunes at The Waterfront, to top 40 hits playing at Wild Arctic, and local pop/rock artists Project DJ Slam performing at The Christmas Market, there’s plenty of music in the air. And the night wouldn’t be complete without fireworks lighting up the night sky! Kick off the New Year with a bang while watching an extended fireworks extravaganza during Holiday Reflections: Fireworks & Fountains Finale immediately following the last Winter Wonderland on Ice show.

Additional show times have been added for extended New Year’s Eve park hours; times listed below for all shows at SeaWorld Orlando:

Clyde & Seamore Countdown to Christmas at 6:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.
O Wondrous Night at 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Shamu Rocks at 9 p.m. and 10:45 p.m.
Shamu® Christmas Miracles at 7:30 p.m.
Winter Wonderland on Ice at 7:15 p.m., 9:45 p.m. and 11:25 p.m. (Extended Holiday Reflections: Fireworks & Fountains Finale immediately following 11:25 p.m. show.)

(All show times are subject to change.)

Wordless Wednesday – Christmas in Orlando

Wordless Wednesday – December 25, 2013

We want to wish everyone celebrating today a very Merry Christmas!

We hope that you all have a day full of family, fun, and love!

Merry Christmas from Orlando!!!

Wordless Wednesday Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

SeaWorld Orlando hosts Reindeer Run

Recently I participated in my second non-Disney race at SeaWorld with the Vanessa Welch Reindeer Run. This three mile fun run was a great Christmas themed race through SeaWorld Orlando. It was a nice morning to start the Reindeer Run at 7:15am with a temp in the low 60s and slightly overcast skies. Not really knowing how this was going to be organized in comparison to most of my other races, I decided to get to the race at 6:30 so I could find my way around and meet up with my friend Doug. We found each other about half an hour before start time and got in the corral for joggers. There was also a corral for walkers scheduled to start about 15 minutes after the jogging participants.

Tons of people dressed up for this race, possibly a greater percentage of runners than for any other race in which I’ve participated. There were especially a lot of reindeer antler headbands for the Reindeer Run. This made for a fun atmosphere at the start of the race, which was a bit quieter than I was used to without a DJ to warm up the crowd and play music.

The first mile of the Reindeer Run was in the SeaWorld parking lot, then the rest of the three mile run was almost entirely in the park itself. There were so many cool things to see throughout the park like the Sea of Tree lights and the fountains, Santa Claus was there for pictures and there were decorations and lights on the course.

Race registration is only $25 and a portion goes to charity. There is no medal for this race, but you do get a long sleeve shirt with the Reindeer Run logo. I would definitely do this race again. It was a lot of fun and there were a lot of great things to see along the way. This was a great way to see SeaWorld and to get in the holiday spirit while contributing to charity. There were also costume contests after the race as well as a free kids run. I highly recommend this race if you’re looking for something fun to do next December. Have you done the Reindeer Run before? What were your thoughts?

SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team Returns Two Manatees

SeaWorld Orlando Returned Two Manatees to Florida Waters after Months of Rehabilitation

The SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team returned two female manatees into East Coast waters this week after receiving treatment and care at SeaWorld Orlando for several months.

On Tuesday, the Animal Rescue Team successfully returned Vesuvia, a 5 year-old sub adult female manatee, to the waters of Front Street Park in Melbourne. She was rescued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in April after sustaining watercraft injuries in the Indian River in Melbourne. She was transported to SeaWorld Orlando after her rescue where she received radiographs, antibiotics and regular flushing of deep abscesses on her body. During rehabilitation, Vesuvia gained 110 pounds, and weighed 855 pounds when she was returned.

This morning, Dorothy-Gail, a female independent manatee calf approximately 3 years old, was returned to the waters at Parrish Park in Titusville, Fla. Dorothy-Gail was rescued from New Smyrna Beach’s Mosquito Lagoon this past May by the FWC and SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Rescue Team. Dorothy-Gail suffered from watercraft injuries and was transported to SeaWorld Orlando where she received antibiotics, fluids, radiographs and other supportive care. She gained 15 pounds during rehabilitation, and weighed 645 pounds at the time of her return.

In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the waters. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades. So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 17 manatees and returned 10, including today’s return.

The Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) is a cooperative group of non-profit, private, state, and federal entities who work together to monitor the health and survival of rehabilitated and released manatees. Information about manatees currently being tracked is available at www.wildtracks.org.

If you see injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

All manatee rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911.

SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration Returns

SeaWorld Orlando plays host to my favorite Christmas Celebration at any of the area theme parks and I’m so excited it returns this weekend! I attended this special event for the first time last year and loved it! It is included in regular park admission and takes place each weekend through the end of the year, and some weeknights the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve (always double check dates and times on the website before heading out).

Most of the events during SeaWorld’s Christmas take place during the afternoon and evening. Special offerings include music from a capella singers, to Christmas carols played on a classical guitar to Elmo’s Christmas Wish featuring many of your favorite Sesame Street characters. I loved the whole vibe of the park in the evening with the lights and music throughout bringing Christmas to life.

Elmo's Christmas Wish — Elmo’s Christmas Wish

There are fun shows including some of SeaWorld’s most famous residents with Shamu’s Christmas Miracles. Last year I didn’t get around to seeing Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas, so it is near the top of my list of must dos this time around. I love their regular show, so I’m sure this one will be just as enjoyable and will be full of holiday spirit.

At the top of my list of things I want to catch that I missed last year is the very popular Polar Express Experience. I grew up reading Chris Van Allsburg books and he is still one of my favorite children’s book authors. Reading the Polar Express each year on Christmas Eve is still a tradition in my house. Another show on my list to see is O Wondrous Night, which is a telling of the Christmas story complete with live animals that would have been found in the manger.

Something that you should not miss is the Sea of Trees featured all along the waterfront area. The gorgeous trees are lit beautifully and dance to some of your favorite holiday hits! I cannot tell you how mesmerized I was by this fantastic show! Catch it several times throughout the night from different vantage points if you can.

Winter Wonderland is an incredible ice skating show set to Christmas music. SeaWorld visitors will appreciate the mix of characters with stories accompanied by some amazingly talented performers. This show often only takes place once during the evening, so make sure to check times of shows before arriving at the park so you don’t miss this great performance!

Throughout the night you will find entertainers roaming the park with comedy acts, strolling musicians, and maybe even some snowflakes. Select SeaWorld restaurants offer the All-Day Dining Deal and even include some special holiday menu items. You can also book Santa’s Fireside Feast in advance if you are looking for a buffet with a meeting with Santa at the end. In addition to unique food and beverages, SeaWorld has special merchandise available for the holiday season for sale at the Christmas Market and several other locations throughout the park.

My favorite part of attending last year’s Christmas celebration at SeaWorld was hands down the amazing fireworks display called Holiday Reflections. This phenomenal show is I think best seen from Bayside Stadium facing the Waterfront. It incorporates music and water elements with the fireworks to put on one of my favorite fireworks shows anywhere of the entire year.

If you get an opportunity, I highly recommend that you visit SeaWorld Orlando for their Christmas event. It is such a great value since it is at no additional cost (of course other than food, drinks, souvenirs, etc.). I absolutely loved this special event last year and was disappointed when I could only go one night. This year will be different! I hope to find myself visiting at least a few times to go back and catch my favorite things I experienced last year and to check out the new to me shows and attractions I missed.

Have you been to SeaWorld’s Christmas? What is your favorite show or attraction? I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

SeaWorld Debuts AnimalVision

SeaWorld Fans “Dive” into the AnimalVision Digital Premiere

Interactive Platform Officially Launched Today, Providing 24/7 Window into SeaWorld’s Animal Habitats

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment launched AnimalVision,™ 24/7, on-habitat cameras streaming footage of penguins from Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin at SeaWorld Orlando, rays from Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark® in San Antonio and turtles from SeaWorld San Diego’s Turtle Reef®. AnimalVision.com offers an interactive website experience allowing visitors to create connections with amazing animals right from the comfort of home.

httpv://youtu.be/4a4dxRRaHs4

In celebration, viewers from across the nation had the chance to virtually “swim” with penguins at Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, SeaWorld Orlando’s newest attraction. Fans were encouraged to submit photos of their best penguin expressions through the official SeaWorld social channels and tune in to AnimalVision.com today at 1 p.m. to see themselves swimming with the penguins.

A SeaWorld diver was placed in the chilly 30-degree waters at Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin with an iPad displaying fan–submitted photos as penguins swam by. At SeaWorld San Antonio, viewers also had the chance to interview a SeaWorld educator submerged with rays at Aquatica San Antonio, and in SeaWorld San Diego, they learned fun facts about sea turtles in the park’s Turtle Reef®.

AnimalVision provides animal camera fans with an interactive experience that goes beyond simply watching the animals demonstrating their natural behaviors. The new platform features:

Video web portal designed to be viewed from any computer, smartphone or tablet
The ability to take, share and save photos of their favorite video moment
Live Twitter feeds share comments with other AnimalVision viewers and interactive “ask the experts” sessions with animal trainers and zoological staff
Education and conservation information and facts about each featured species
Downloadable games
Additional animal species will be showcased in the near future

Each of the six cameras is high definition for the best viewing experience possible, including multiple viewpoints of the habitats. The cameras at SeaWorld Orlando’s newest attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™, show four different species of penguins both in the water and up on the ice. At Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark® in San Antonio, more than 200 stingrays and tropical fish including various species of angel, tang and butterfly fish are seen from shallow and deep underwater viewpoints. Turtle Reef® at SeaWorld San Diego features more than 40 threatened green sea turtles ranging in age from four to 50 years old with a view of the 280,000-gallon aquarium they call home.

About SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable its customers to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share. The Company owns or licenses a portfolio of globally recognized brands including SeaWorld®, Shamu® and Busch Gardens®. Over its more than 50 year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind collection of approximately 67,000 marine and terrestrial animals. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests. In addition to its theme parks, the company has recently begun to leverage its brands into media, entertainment and consumer products. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: SEAS). Copies of this and other news releases as well as additional information about SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. can be obtained online at www.seaworldentertainment.com. Shareholders and prospective investors can also register to automatically receive the Company’s press releases, SEC filings and other notices by e-mail.

Halloween Spooktacular Fun For Little Ones

I don’t know about you, but I love Halloween! It is such a fun time of year with all the parties going on everywhere!

Last year was little man’s first Halloween, but at 6 months, he was more cute than anything else. We didn’t do too much more than a “costume” and some pictures. This year he’s big enough to go and have fun!

I jumped on the opportunity to take him to SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular this year! Costumes, candy, dance parties and characters, what fun!!

We really had a great time at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular! Overall it seemed to REALLY be geared towards the little ones, and that was perfect for us. My favorite things are that this special event is included in your regular park admission, it is during regular park hours (i.e. no late nights!) and there are lots of activities going on during Spooktacular!

Little man’s favorite things are the bubbles everywhere, the trick or treat trail (where he could hold his bag closed and try to give his candy/snacks back to people), the dance party and the characters!

One of the things available at a small addition fee was cookie decorating. He had so much fun playing with his cookie and eating it!

It wasn’t very crowded at all while we were there, it was quite nice! Unfortunately this event is only available a few days in the season – just weekends in October, so we were only able to go once. Next year it is definitely on our must do list! Have you been to SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular? What was your favorite part?

Wordless Wednesday: Halloween Spooktacular Path

Wordless Wednesday – October 23, 2013

This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes us to a Halloween Spooktacular of fun that truly is an underwater FantaSEA full of unique characters, candy, and Family fun at SeaWorld Orlando.

SeaWorld Orlando Caring For Orphaned Manatee Calf

SeaWorld Orlando now Caring for Orphaned Manatee Calf Rescued from

Beaches of Cape Canaveral Air Base

An orphaned manatee calf was rescued today from the beaches of Cape Canaveral Air Base in Brevard County, Fla., by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The estimated two-month-old male was spotted on the beach by turtle nesting surveyors near a turtle mound.

The nearly 90-pound calf was transported by the FWC to SeaWorld Orlando, where the SeaWorld Animal Rescue Team and veterinary staff performed a complete health exam, took blood samples and began providing an antibiotic treatment. The calf will receive around-the-clock care, including regular tube feedings, and his health will continue to be monitored.

The calf joined three other orphans, who are also receiving rehabilitative care at the park. Manatee calves normally nurse for one to two years. They depend on their mothers not only for nutrition, but also for learning about feeding and resting areas. SeaWorld Orlando uses a special formula created by the park’s animal care team specifically for manatee calves to ensure they are receiving proper nutrition.

So far in 2013, SeaWorld has rescued 16 and returned 8 manatees back to their natural environment. In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the ocean. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades.

If you see an injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

SeaWorld ‘Sea of Surprises’ Rose Parade Float

SEAWORLDDEBUTS SEA OF SURPRISES FLOAT IN 125^TH ROSE PARADE

Sea Life Inspires Festive Tribute to SeaWorld’s 50^th Celebration

“Sea of Surprises” will be the theme of the SeaWorld float in the 125th Rose^® Parade presented by Honda on Jan. 1, 2014 in Pasadena, Calif. The marine park’s most popular animals—including killer whales, penguins, dolphins and sea turtles—will be depicted on the float, designed to highlight the fun, inspiration and surprises that guests will find at the park during SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration kicking off next year.

For nearly five decades, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ has surprised and amazed guests with up-close encounters with animals, unique entertainment and thrilling rides. Millions have been inspired through the power of entertainment, to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world. On New Year’s Day, the beauty and majesty of the sea will come to life in Pasadena, as SeaWorld’s “Sea of Surprises” float appears in the Rose Parade^®.

“We’re delighted to be part of the 125th Rose Parade with our ‘Sea of Surprises’ float,” said Jim Atchison, President and CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “SeaWorld has been creating entertainment experiences that blend imagination with nature for almost 50 years, and this float will help bring that celebration to life.”

Built by Fiesta Parade Floats and designed by Stanley A. Meyer Design LLC, the SeaWorld float features a little boy, wide-eyed with wonder, who dives beneath a swirling, cresting wave. Through his ocean exploration, the boy’s fantasy comes to life, in perfect fitting with the Rose Parade’s theme this year, “Dreams Come True.”

“We could not be more excited to have the opportunity to be a part of SeaWorld’s 50th celebration, and what better way to celebrate than on the world’s largest New Year’s Day stage,” said Tim Estes, president of Fiesta Parade Floats. “An absolutely perfect complement to the theme, “Dreams Come True,” the “Sea of Surprises” float melds the power of connecting to the natural world with the inspiration, fun, and imagination that millions experience when visiting SeaWorld parks.”

SeaWorld’s float features many of the parks’ most popular animals, including killer whales, dolphins, penguins and sea turtles. A 55-foot floral foaming wave of more than 20,000 cascading iris and roses “crash” over a colorful reef, designed with more than 15,000 florescent orange roses. The bright, whimsical coral reef is teeming with marine animals including starfish, sea horses, turtles, manta rays, crabs and fanciful fish.

SeaWorld will celebrate its 50th year with a sea of surprises at all three parks that will include new interactive experiences and shows, even more up-close animal encounters throughout the parks and the SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” treating park guests with prizes and special experiences every day. For more information about the Celebration, visit www.SeaWorld.com/Celebration.

The 125th Rose Parade takes place along a 5½-mile route beginning on Orange Grove Boulevard in Pasadena, Calif. on Jan. 1, 2014. For more information, visit www.TournamentofRoses.com.

About SeaWorld:

SeaWorld^® is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. It operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue and rehabilitate ocean marine animals that are ill, injured and orphaned, with the goal of returning them to the wild. The SeaWorld^® rescue team has helped more than 22,000 animals in need over the last four decades. The SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund has granted more than $10 million to wildlife research and conservation projects that protect wildlife and wild places. The Fund commits 100% of donations to on-the-ground wildlife conservation efforts.

Learn more at www.SeaWorld.com

Pick Six: Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando

A highlight of the Halloween Party season in Orlando for our family is Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando!

Halloween Spooktacular events at SeaWorld Orlando take place weekends in October on the 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, and 26-27 from 12 to 8 pm, and Trick-or-Treat stations, special characters, Penelope’s Party Zone, and more are all included with your admission! There are also special Halloween Spooktacular themed cookie decorating, merchandise, and games which are available at a very reasonable extra charge.

While the party is filled with great activities, characters, candy, and fun here are our favorite highlights of Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando!

Pick Six:

Halloween Spooktacular Orlando Highlights

1. Decorations

I absolutely adore how SeaWorld Orlando is transformed for Halloween Spooktacular! You’ll find fishy looking pumpkins, tons of bubbles, colorful banners, and scenes that really transport you to a Halloween ‘Fantasea’! Zoe especially loves the bubbles everywhere!!!

2. Characters

When you think of SeaWorld you may not think of meeting characters, but you should! This year Pirate Shamu and friends are meeting and dancing with guests at Penelope’s Party Zone in Bayside Stadium. This is a HUGE improvement from last year’s meet and greet location, because the characters really know how to boogie and really who doesn’t want to dance with Shamu???

3. Free Activities

Since Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando is during the day and centered around family fun, there are really great free activities for kids of all ages! For the younger guests at Halloween Spooktacular, there are coloring easels with stools and play areas. And for the older guests, there are pumpkin foam crafts to make and iPads with big screens set up to play the SeaWorld Turtle Trek game! These activities are all found in Penelope’s Party Zone, and I will warn parents that you will spend a lot of your Halloween Spooktacular time here!

4. Cookie Decorating

Every year there is a special treat to decorate, and this year’s cookie decorating doesn’t disappoint! On the upper walkway of Bayside Stadium you will find the cookie decorating tents where you can purchase a cookie decorating kit for $5.50, which includes a cookie, icing, decorating sprinkles & candies, and your choice of water, apple juice, and milk. What I especially love about this area is that it is a place where you and your children can sit away from the party to grab a snack and let them unwind for a spell. If you are a SeaWorld Orlando Annual Passholder, you will receive a discount on the cookie decorating kit!

5. Animal Interactions

Zoe ALWAYS loves the animal interactions that she finds when we visit SeaWorld Orlando, and she loves them even more when she can take a picture with them in her Halloween costume! The day we attended Halloween Spooktacular, Zoe met a Tawny Frogmouth, who was super soft and sweet!

6. Trick-or-Treating

I left our favorite highlight for last…Trick-or-Treating! At Halloween Spooktacular Trick-or-Treating is no joke! You can enter the Underwater Fantasea Path near Shamu Stadium or at the path near the Dolphin Nursery, and the path takes you through the center of all the Halloween Spooktacular fun with 12 Trick-or-Treating spots. The lines are clearly marked which keeps things really organized, and the type of candy being distributed is clearly displayed so you can see if you want to stop or if you need to start thinking of a candy trade to make! You also don’t have to worry about bringing a bag for your treats, because they have high quality paper bags and maps at both entrances to the path!

When you do go to Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando, make sure that you follow SeaWorld on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for great details and information! If you are sharing pictures also make sure to tag your pictures with #SeaWorldSpooktacular, because SeaWorld wants to hear from you and they are even holding contests for attendees!

I hope that you enjoyed our Pick Six for Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando, and I’d love to hear what you love the best about this family-friendly and fun filled Halloween event!

SeaWorld Debuts Float In The 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Paradae

SeaWorld Debuts ‘A Sea of Surprises’ Float

In the 87th Annual Macy’s

Thanksgiving Day Parade

Sculptures of sea turtles, penguins and fish among the amazing sea creatures

featured aboard new 32 foot-long float

For almost five decades, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has surprised and amazed guests with unique entertainment, thrilling rides, and up-close encounters with amazing sea life. Millions have been inspired through the power of entertainment, to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world. This Thanksgiving the beauty and majesty of the sea will come to life on the streets of New York as SeaWorld’s “A Sea of Surprises” float debuts in the 87^th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade^®.

“The magicians of Macy’s Parade Studio have outdone themselves yet again with the awe-inspiring and entertaining design of the new SeaWorld float,” said Amy Kule, executive producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “With its diverse and majestic depictions of sea creatures transformed into larger-than-life form, the ‘A Sea of Surprises’ float is sure to inspire millions of children and adults to learn more about, appreciate and enjoy all forms of aquatic life.”

From sea turtles, penguins and angel fish to sharks and breaching whales, amazing sea sculptures abound on the new float. Featuring rolling ocean waves, the gentle movement of swaying kelp and a vibrant school of tropical fish, the scene will take spectators on an extraordinary undersea journey. Taking center stage on the “A Sea of Surprises” float is the iconic Shamu, breaching 27-feet above the millions of Parade spectators lining the streets of Manhattan.

“We are thrilled to debut our SeaWorld “A Sea of Surprises” float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as a tribute to SeaWorld’s 50^th celebration,” said Jim Atchison, President and CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Next year the parks will commemorate this milestone with a year-long celebration at the three SeaWorld parks in San Diego, Orlando and San Antonio. We hope this festive float represents the fun, inspiration and surprises that guests will find during a visit to SeaWorld.”

Beginning next March, SeaWorld celebrates its 50^th-year with a sea of surprises at all three parks that includes new interactive experiences and shows, even more up-close animal encounters throughout the park and the SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” treating guests with prizes and special experiences every day. For more information, visit www.SeaWorld.com/Celebration.

The 87^th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airs nationwide on NBC-TV, on Thursday,November 28^th from 9am-12pm, in all time zones.

About the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade:

With more than 50 million viewers across the country and more than 3.5 million spectators that line up along the streets of New York City each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a national icon that has grown into a world-famous holiday event. For more than 80 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has marked the official start of the holiday season. Growing in size and scale, the Parade proudly marches down a more than 2-mile route in New York City with more than 8,000 participants in tow including Macy’s employees, their families, celebrities, athletes, clowns and dance groups spreading holiday cheer. The Parade also features America’s best marching bands, fabulous floats and Macy’s signature giant helium character balloons. For more information on the Macy’s Parade please visit www.macys.com/parade or call the Parade hotline at (212) 494-4495.

About SeaWorld:

SeaWorld is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. It operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue and rehabilitate ocean marine animals that are ill, injured and orphaned, with the goal of returning them to the wild. The SeaWorld^® rescue team has helped more than 22,000 animals in need over the last four decades. The SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund has granted more than $9 million to wildlife research and conservation projects that protect wildlife and wild places. The Fund commits 100% of donations to on-the-ground wildlife conservation efforts. Learn more at www.SeaWorld.com

About SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™:

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable its customers to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share. The Company owns or licenses a portfolio of globally recognized brands including SeaWorld®, Shamu® and Busch Gardens®. Over its more than 50 year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind collection of approximately 67,000 marine and terrestrial animals. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests. In addition to its theme parks, the company has recently begun to leverage its brands into media, entertainment and consumer products. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: SEAS). Copies of this and other news releases as well as additional information about SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. can be obtained online at www.seaworldentertainment.com. Shareholders and prospective investors can also register to automatically receive the Company’s press releases, SEC filings and other notices by e-mail.

SeaWorld Orlando Penguins Up Close Tour

When I was younger I used to dream about having a penguin that lived in our freezer, so when I had the opportunity to see one up close I jumped that the opportunity!

Earlier this year SeaWorld Orlando opened Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and now the park is offering the Penguins Up Close Tour where guests can experience what it is like to work and live in this attraction and habitat.

The Penguins Up Close Tour is approximately 45 minute long, and is a walking tour that takes guests behind the scenes at the Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin to see what it takes to keep these beautiful birds happy and healthy.

The tour is led by an Animal Care Specialist who is extremely knowledgeable about the birds and exhibit, and beyond happy to answer any and all of your questions!

It was fascinating to learn about their health care routines, feeding breakouts, and just how much manual labor goes into maintaining the penguin’s habitat.

For me the absolute highlight of the tour is that you get a rare opportunity to interact with and touch a penguin! It was beyond amazing! It also becomes apparent how easily Animal Care Specialists tell them apart, because their personalities shine in this encounter!

Seasonal pricing for the Penguins Up Close Tour starts at $59 ages 10 and up and $39 ages 3-9 plus tax. SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members can also save 10% by booking online or calling 1-888-800-5447!

The Penguin Up Close Tour is offered several times a day, and because of the space in the attraction the groups are quite small which creates a very intimate environment where you really get the chance to experience the offerings instead of jockeying for space.

The Penguins Up Close Tour was absolutely amazing, and having the opportunity to interact with the penguins was a dream come true for me! I cannot recommend this tour highly enough for animal enthusiasts!!!

There are a few things to keep in mind when booking the Penguins Up Close Tour:

It is 30° inside of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and while there is some adjusting to the temperature stops included in the tour make sure to wear appropriate clothing. You will be chilly!
There are slick surfaces on the walking tour, so you will want to wear shoes that are okay to get wet and have some tread on them for safety’s sake.
You are allowed to take pictures with your phone and cameras, however you will want to be careful about condensation on your lens.
Participants must check in at the Information & Reservations Counter at least 30 minutes prior to the tour start time.
All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Small groups will be combined to form a tour group of about 12 guests.
Children under 3 are free but need a tour reservation.
Late arrivals may miss tour components or may not be accommodated due to limited tour availability.
Tour times, prices and components are subject to change and availability.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice are non-refundable.
SeaWorld admission is required, but not included.

SeaWorld Orlando Returns 75 Sea Turtles

to Waters Offshore Jupiter, Florida

SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Rescue Team returned 75 sea turtle hatchlings to waters off Florida’s east coast today. Ten green, three hawksbills, 61 loggerheads and one leatherback were transported by the Republic VII to a “weed line” about 14 miles offshore Jupiter, Fla.

A weed line is made up of sargassum sea weed grass and acts as protection and a source of food for the young turtles during the first two years of life.

Three of the 74 hatchlings had been receiving care at SeaWorld Orlando for the past several months. These hawksbill hatchlings were found by beachcombers and had likely been washed on shore due to harsh sea conditions. SeaWorld’s Animal Care Team assisted in providing medical and rehabilitative care, including feeding assistance, antibiotic treatment and radiographs, prior to today’s return.

Other juvenile turtles being returned today:

Nineteen hatchlings – 18 loggerheads and one leatherback – had been receiving care at the Volusia County Marine Science Center. The rare leatherback hatchling was brought to the facility after being found near New Smyrna Beach, Fla., with a severe curvature and inability to reach the sea on its own. The center provided medical care, including fluid injections and feeding assistance, for a few weeks until it was healthy enough to swim properly. Two of the eighteen loggerheads were brought in after being washed back to shore and the rest were newly hatched turtles that never made it back to the water on their own.
Ten green and forty three loggerhead hatchlings had been receiving care at the Loggerhead Marine Life Center. These young turtles never made it to the water after hatching and were recovered by beachcombers near Juno, Fla.

One by one, each turtle was carefully placed in the water near the sargassum sea weed line. Young turtles spend the two years of their life in the weed line. Jellyfish could be seen near the weed line, which are a main source of food for leatherbacks and can be a secondary source of food for other sea turtles as well.

Each turtle’s health was evaluated and all were medically cleared prior to today’s return.

In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the waters. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades. So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 52 turtles and returned 47, not including today’s return.

All turtle rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911

If you see injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

SeaWorld Orlando Halloween Spooktacular

AN OCEAN OF HALLOWEEN FUN AWAITS AT

SEAWORLD ORLANDO’S HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

Join SeaWorld Orlando every weekend in October for silly, spooky fun at Halloween Spooktacular. During this daytime event, families will be immersed in an underwater “fantasea” filled with trick-or-treating, dancing with sea fairies and pumpkin fish and sea-themed arts and crafts.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place weekends in October: 5-6, 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27, from 12 to 8 p.m., leaving the littlest of trick-or-treaters wide-eyed for all of the fun-filled activities. Halloween Spooktacular is included with park admission.

Spooktacular Highlights Include:

NEW this year: Spooktacular Dance Party

Princess Penelope and her undersea friends invite guests to join the Spooktacular Dance Party, where children can dance along to a Spooktacular mix of line-dancing favorites as clouds of bubbles fill the evening air. The party will kick off at the front of the park every event night an hour before SeaWorld’s park closing time.

Waves of Trick-or-Treat Fun

Offering more than two million pieces of sweet treats, costumed youngsters can trick-or-treat “under the sea.” Each trick-or-treat station features an assortment of ghoulish goodies including Tootsie Roll, Jelly Belly jelly beans, Airheads and other candy favorites.

Penelope’s Party Zone

Located at SeaWorld’s Bayside area, this dynamic underwater environment comes to life each day with a live DJ, a variety of interactive crafts to choose from, countless bubbles floating overhead and colorful pumpkin fish gliding around!

Sweet Treat Decorating

Kids and parents alike can have a “splash” creating their own sweet treats at the cookie decorating station. Kids will be able to decorate and devour their spooky cookie when they purchase a kit that comes equipped with a cookie, frosting and toppings.

Jelly Belly® Bean Art to Come to Life at Spooktacular

Jelly Belly artist in residence, Kristen Cumings, will use more than 10,000 Jelly Belly jelly beans to create a portrait of rockhopper penguins, reflecting SeaWorld’s all-new, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin. Guests can watch as this handmade jelly bean creation comes together in front of their eyes during the final weekend of Halloween Spooktacular, Oct. 26 and 27. Kids can join in the fun too, with the opportunity to decorate a Halloween Spooktacular mural with a variety of Jelly Belly jelly beans.

Not included with admission to SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular, but always a really fun time is…

Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast

1-2-3… Dine with me! Don’t walk around on an empty stomach, stay 1 step ahead of hunger! What goes great with your 2 morning eggs? How about infinite hugs from Count von Count, Elmo and his furry friends! Featuring a delicious buffet sprinkled with the hottest characters in town, the Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast is a fun-filled experience sure to delight kids and parents alike. You can “count” on it! Adults $24, Child (2-9) $14.

We’ll be heading to SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular, and will be bringing you all sorts of great tips, tweets, and pictures!

Make sure to Like SeaWorld Orlando on Facebook or follow on Twitter and Instagram for the latest details about SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular. #SeaWorldSpooktacular