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SeaWorld Orlando Announces Upcoming Events

SeaWorld Orlando announces the return of their popular Craft Beer Festival with enhanced health and safety measures to keep guests safe and gives holiday celebration information

SeaWorld Orlando shared some big news about the fall and holiday festivities in the park that is sure to bring joy to the hearts of theme park fans.

Starting September 2oth, its annual Craft Beer Festival will return with access to more than 100 crafts brews!

Theme Parks Thoughts When Summer Ends - Free Beer SeaWorld Orlando

The event has been modified to allow guests to safely visit the park with limited capacity, roam SeaWorld’s expansive grounds, sample an unbeatable mix of domestic and local Florida favorites, and savor more than 20 food items expertly paired to preferred brews.

In addition to enhancing the park’s already strict health and safety measures, capacity will be significantly limited to create even more open space for a visit that provides ample opportunity to maintain social distancing.

This delicious festival will feature food and beverage locations that are appropriately spaced throughout the park to encourage physical distancing, modified food and beverage serving procedures, expanded areas of seating, and the ability to offer touchless transactions at all festival locations. Guests can experience all that the Craft Beer Festival has to offer, and save money, by purchasing a Craft Beer Festival Tasting Lanyard valid at 18 stations located throughout the park.

“We couldn’t be happier to host our annual Craft Beer Festival, modified to reflect enhanced health and safety protocols, including limited capacity, to give guests the chance to delight their senses,” said SeaWorld Orlando Park President Kyle Miller. “By spreading the festival booths out across the entire park, guests can safely enjoy all of the amazing beer and beer-inspired food, along with our award-winning attractions, while maintaining proper physical distancing.”

All guests with existing tickets, Fun Cards, or Annual Passes must make a reservation online for the day they want to visit. Guests are encouraged to make reservations early as reservations are required and limited to manage capacity.

Reservations can be made at SeaWorld.com/orlando/tickets/reservations/.

Upcoming SeaWorld Orlando Events:

SeaWorld Spooktacular

It’s an ocean of Halloween fun for the whole family at SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular! During this modified daytime event, guests can safely explore our slightly spooky trick or treat trail and meet silly Halloween characters with physical distancing protocols in place, and much more during this safe, family-friendly event.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular will return starting September 19 through November 1 and is included in park admission.

SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is where holiday traditions are made, with delicious food, stunning live shows, delightful holiday shopping, and joyous entertainment – all designed with enhanced health and safety measures in mind including a limited capacity to create plenty of space for social distancing.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration brings together family fun and holiday traditions in a safe environment on select nights, November 23 through December 31, and is included with park admission.

Safety:

Theme Park Reopening Tips SeaWorld Orlando Reopening June 11 2020

SeaWorld Orlando is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The park has worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside consultants, and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and cleanliness standards.

These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19. SeaWorld San Orlando is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring, and memorable experiences while addressing important health and safety needs during this time.

For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the resort, including key operational changes, visit Seaworld.com/orlando/park-info/park-safety.

Best Way to Play:

For a limited time, SeaWorld Orlando single day tickets are Buy One, Get One 50% off! The sale ends August 16, 2020, with park visitation taking place through September 30, 2020.

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets and passes, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com. Events and times are subject to change.

SEA LIFE Orlando Dives into Shark Week

If you have ever wanted to become a shark expert and dive into Shark Week, SEA LIFE Orlando is inviting guests to live out their dreams with the opportunity to feed their sharks, go behind the scenes to see how they are cared for, and to talk to a shark expert to find out more!

SEA LIFE Orlando Madame Tussauds Orlando ICON Park Reopen May 2020 — SEA LIFE Orlando

The best part is that guests can choose to participate virtually or in-person, and can also see how they are caring for our sharks during this unprecedented time.

Here are the activities that you will find at SEA LIFE Orlando for Shark Week:

Make a Shark Meal and Feed the Sharks
- Help an Aquarist meal prep for some of our sharks
- Feed the sharks a delicious fishy meal that you prepared
Become a Shark Expert and travel Behind-the-Scenes
- Discover how we are caring for our sharks and thousands of creatures during the pandemic
- Learn about the various shark species at SEA LIFE and what makes them special
Talk to a Shark Expert
- Learn “fin”tastic facts about sharks
  - Can lose 20,000+ teeth in a lifetime
  - Sharks are less deadly than toasters
  - Sharks help the entire ocean ecosystem

For more information about Shark Week at SEA LIFE Orlando and to plan your visit, make sure to check out their website.

Theme Park Reopening Tips

The theme parks of Central Florida are once again open and welcoming guests, and while your next visit will be different here are some tips to make the most of your time in the parks.

Give Yourself Extra Time

I am a fan of arriving early to help cut down on any anxiety around sticking to a schedule, however, now giving yourself extra time is essential as security and temperature check lines can get long.

Security and temperature check areas tend to open before the park, and I try to arrive at least 30 minutes before park opening to make sure the process does not affect my schedule for the day.

Don’t Forget Your Face Covering

All of the Central Florida theme parks are requiring guests over the age of two to wear a face covering while they are in the parks and the specific requirements vary by park.

Guidelines to consider when choosing a face coverings include:

Face covering must fit snugly against the sides of your face,
Both your nose and mouth must be protected by the face covering,
Face coverings should be made of a breathable material, and
Face covering should be secured with ties or ear loops.

Review Park Information

Before you choose a park to attend, take a moment to visit the theme park’s official website to review ticket availability, reservation requirements, modified attraction and show lists, and operations guidelines.

Each park is managing each of these aspects differently, and it will definitely make your day smoother if you are familiar with them.

A good rule of thumb when setting expectations for your day is to remember that SeaWorld Orlando and the Walt Disney World Resort are requiring theme park reservations to attend, that fireworks and parades are temporarily suspended, and that character meet and greets are held from afar in a group setting.

Meal Planning

With the greatly reduced capacity of full-service restaurants in the theme parks and quick service restaurants operating like casual dining restaurants with reserved seating, you will want to make sure that you schedule extra time in your schedule for a meal.

Don’t Overpack

Theme Park Reopening Tips Walt Disney World Reopening Theme Park Essentials

While you might be tempted to bring extra items with you to the theme parks, keep in mind that some theme parks, like the Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando, are still requiring bags to be put in lockers before you enter most attraction queues.

These lockers are not very large, and if your items do not fit in the complimentary lockers you will be required to purchase a larger locker for your items.

Prepare to Combat the Heat

Wearing a mask while you are outside can make things feel hotter than expected, and to help with this I bring a battery operated fan that I’m able to pop on when I need an extra boost of cold air to help me feel more comfortable.

Download Official Theme Park Apps Before Arrival

The theme parks have made efforts to reduce their points of contact, and one way they have done this is by integrating actions into their official apps that can be downloaded for free.

I suggest downloading the theme park’s official app before you arrive to help ensure that your park entry and cashless payment processes take as little time as possible.

Theme Park Reopening Tips Disney Springs Reopening Phase 1 Tips and Tricks

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Summer Camps

Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Interior

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is calling all artists from 6 to 19 for some serious fun this summer learning from the pros that culminate with a final performance to show those new skills.

To ensure the safety of students and colleagues, they are taking guidance from the governor’s “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step” plan, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as local governments and AdventHealth.

JULY SUMMER CAMP OFFERINGS

Musical Theater Week – Safari Adventure (Ages 6-10)

In-Person Camp: July 6–10, 2020
Through theatrical performance combining songs, spoken dialogue, acting and dance, students learn to tell thrilling stories of adventure.

Take It From The Top – Broadway Week (Ages 10-19)

In-Person Camp: July 6–November 25, 2020
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be taught by some of Broadway’s most experienced pros.

Theater Arts Week (Ages: 6-10)

In-Person Camp: July 13–17, 2020
In a nurturing, supportive environment, students learn the art of play and explore improvisation, drama, theater games and script.

Les Misérables Musical Theater Production (Ages 12-19)

In-Person Camp: July 18–July 31, 2020
Join the cast and present a concert-style production of the classic, award-winning musical Les Misérables.

Fairy Tale Classics Week (Ages 6-10)

In-Person Camp: July 20–24, 2020
Beloved stories and characters from the most popular tales ever told are brought to life through song and dance.

Ultimate Musical Adventure Week (Ages 6-10)

In-Person Camp: July 27–31, 2020
A delightful educational excursion into the most thrilling musical moments from Shrek, Peter Pan, Aladdin, and more.

AUGUST SUMMER CAMP OFFERINGS

Surf’s Up! Fun in the Sun Week (Ages 6-12)

In-Person Camp: August 3–7, 2020
Hit the waves and get a boost for acting, singing and dancing skills during a surf-themed week of high-energy online classes and activities.

Know Before You Go: Disney Springs Phase 1

As Walt Disney World gears up for the reopening of Disney Springs at there are 6 key things guests will want to know before arriving, and they include:

Limited parking and reduced entrances
Temperature screenings prior to entry
Face coverings required for everyone
Physical distancing practices including physically-distanced queues and physical barriers
Temporary operation modifications, including reduced hours at select locations and no scheduled entertainment offerings or high-touch interactive areas
An increased focus on disinfecting and sanitation, including the addition of hand-washing stations and hand sanitizers in key areas

Disney Springs Know Before You Go May 16 2020 — Disney Parks Blog

Guest Parking and Entrances

During this initial phase, Guests will be directed to self-park in the Orange and Lime garages; all surface parking lots will be closed.

At opening, guest entryways will be reduced to 4 locations: Orange and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare location.

Guest access to Disney Springs from the Grapefruit garage will be restricted.

Temperature Screening

All Guests are required to undergo temperature screenings upon arrival at Disney Springs.

Guest Screening: During this initial period, Guests will undergo temperature screening in these locations: the second-floor exits of Orange and Lime parking garages and the Marketplace Entrance (to serve Guests from the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare drop-off lot). Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures above 100.4 will not be allowed entry; those in their party will not be allowed entry either.
Employee Screening: Cast Members and Operating Participant employees will be required to complete a health screening and temperature check at home, prior to coming to work.

Limited Contact

Following guidance from the government and the medical community regarding enhanced screening procedures and prevention measures, Disney Springs has made some temporary adjustments that include limited-contact Guest Services to ensure a responsible and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Face Coverings: All Guests ages 3 and older, Cast Members, and Operating Participant employees are required to wear an appropriate face covering. Guests must bring their own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining.
Physical Barriers: Physical barriers have been added in select places where it is difficult to maintain strict physical distancing guidelines. These may be visible in areas around cash registers or at Guest Relations, for example, to help ensure proper distances between people.
Cashless Transactions: At this time, it is recommended all Guests use cashless or contactless payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Rewards Redemption Cards, and mobile wallets—including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. Guests may purchase a Disney Gift Card at select Merchandise locations and Welcome Center (Guest Relations) to pay without cash.

Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures

Managing the number of Guests visiting Disney Springs has been a major consideration as physical distancing guidelines are implemented based on recommendations from health authorities and government officials.

One of the ways to do that is to limit the number of Guests and Cast Members at any given time for each location.

Additional measures include:

Signage: Directional signage has been installed to assist Guests to responsibly move throughout the property. Additionally, ground markings will help promote proper physical distancing when queuing is needed at a location.
Training: We are also training some of our Cast Members to engage with Guests and promote physical distancing guidelines in common areas and queues.

Cleanliness and Sanitization

Disney Springs has increased cleaning and disinfection in high-traffic areas such as public elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms, and more.

Additionally, Disney Springs will open with hand sanitizer and hand-washing locations, and Guests are highly encouraged to use these while visiting.

Cast Training

Disney Springs is further emphasizing their strong culture of health and safety among Cast Members and Operating Participant employees and will continue to provide new training and reinforcement as they navigate through the reopening phases.

About These Measures

As part of these efforts, Guests may see other changes to the retail and dining offerings, as well as other experiences at Disney Springs.

Though it may be different from the last time you visited, these new measures are designed to offer a magical Disney experience in a responsible way.

We understand that these times are challenging, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we navigate as responsibly as we can.

Together, we can find new ways to have fun while being diligent to maintain proper physical distancing.

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

On the Go in the Parks: February 28 – March 1, 2020

On the Go in the Parks February 28 to March 1 Orlando's Evening News

The theme parks of Central Florida are always buzzing with excitement and events, and here is everything you can experience this weekend in the parks!

Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about these events and more on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!

On the Go in the Parks: New this Weekend

While it is a bit of a lull in the parks this weekend, Wednesday kicks off a whirlwind of awesomeness!!!

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway and the Mickey Shorts Theater open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and just a park over the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival begins at EPCOT!

On the Go in the Parks: Returning Favorites

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras

Universal Orlando is celebrating 25 years of its family-friendly Mardi Gras festivities with new parade floats, globally inspired cuisine, and live concerts on select nights from February 1 to April 2 at the Universal Studios Florida theme park.

This year’s parade features six new additional floats and steps-off at 6:15 pm on February 28, 7:45 pm on February 29, and 6:15 pm on March 1.

On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.

This weekend you can see:

Saturday, Feb. 29 – TLC

Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands. You can see the Free Agents Brass Band will take to the French Quarter Courtyard Stage daily until March 6.

All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).

And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.

Seven Seas Food Festival @ SeaWorld Orlando

2020 Seven Seas Food Festival Guide SeaWorld Orlando

In 2020 the Seven Seas Food Festival will run from February 7 through May 5, including Fridays (WOOOOT), to give park-goers plenty more chances to sample more than 180 mouthwatering options from Chef Héctor Colón and his amazing culinary team!

New food offerings include the cricket crusted bison slider, duck and mushroom ramen bowl and the chicken and waffle.

Enjoy local craft beers and mouthwatering culinary flavors while exploring our marketplaces throughout the park.

In addition to delicious eats, guests visiting SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can enjoy world-class entertainment every Saturday and Sunday at Bayside Stadium, all included with theme park admission.

This weekend the Seven Seas Food Festival will feature free concerts from:

February 29 – Grupo Mania
March 1 – Boyz II Men

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

On the Go in the Parks: February 14-16, 2020

Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about these events and more on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!

The theme parks of Central Florida are always buzzing with excitement and events, and here is everything you can experience On the Go in the Parks this weekend!

On the Go in the Parks: New this Weekend

CityWorks @ Disney Springs

City Works Eatery & Pour House is the newest dining location to open on the West Side of Disney Springs.

The restaurant is Disney Springs’ premier sports restaurant and bar and offers the ultimate sports viewing experience with its high-definition TVs – including a video wall housing a 168-inch, high-definition video screen complemented by four 110-inch and 12 65-inch screens – and 90 local, regional and global craft beers on draft.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday 11 a.m.-midnight, Friday 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m.-1 a.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m.-midnight. It also offers brunch dishes on the weekends 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

On the Go in the Parks: Returning Favorites

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras

This year’s parade features six new additional floats, and steps-off at 7:45 pm on February 1 and 6 pm on February 2.

On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.

This weekend you can see:

Saturday, Feb. 15 – Bell Biv DeVoe @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Feb. 16 – +Live+ @ 8:30 pm

Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands. You can see the Dirty Bourbon River Show will take to the French Quarter Courtyard Stage daily until February 13.

All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).

And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.

Don’t forget that Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Studios Florida are held rain or shine, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Seven Seas Food Festival @ SeaWorld Orlando

New food offerings include the cricket crusted bison slider, duck and mushroom ramen bowl and the chicken and waffle.

Enjoy local craft beers and mouthwatering culinary flavors while exploring our marketplaces throughout the park.

This weekend the Seven Seas Food Festival will feature free concerts from:

February 15 – To Be Announced
February 16 – Night Ranger

Epcot Festival of the Arts

The annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts at the Walt Disney World Resort will fill the park with a celebration of visual, culinary, and performing arts from around the world daily through February 24, 2020.

The Disney on Broadway Concert Series is the highlight of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts as Broadway stars reprise favorite songs from past performances in award-winning shows three times a day on the American Gardens Theatre stage.

Performances are at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM daily, and you will want to arrive AT LEAST 30 minutes before the concert is set to begin.

This weekend the Disney on Broadway Concert Series will feature:

Syndee Winters and Michael James Scott

February 14 through 17

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Estefan Kitchen Opens at Sunset Walk

26 time Grammy Award-Winning artists, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, have opened their newest Estefan Kitchen restaurant location in Sunset Walk, located in the Margaritaville Resort Orlando complex.

Estefan Kitchen Orlando Exterior Emilio and Gloria Estefan

The well-known Miami destination brings the essence of Cuba to Orlando with modern and traditional dishes, live entertainment, and over-the-top dance performances.

“Sunset Walk is the perfect destination for Estefan Kitchen to call home,” said Emilio Estefan. “Bongos Cuban Café celebrated 22 years in the community and we’re thrilled to turn the page and continue sharing our culture with our neighbors in Orlando. Estefan Kitchen is the perfect destination for locals and visitors. . .it’s where music & food bring people together, and we know they’ll have an unforgettable experience each time they visit.”

The restaurant’s beautiful dining room is elegantly designed with tropical plants, marble floors, an indoor/outdoor bar and a stage for live nightly performances.

The menu features a mix of traditional Latin cuisine, including vegan and vegetarian options, and “Miriam’s Chicken and Rice Asopao” is a signature recipe from the Estefan’s personal Chef that has been passed down for generations in Puerto Rico.

The dish features braised quartered chicken, rice, green peas, roasted red pepper, sweet plantains, and asopao, a specific type of Arroz con Pollo.

And I’m really excited to share that recipe for Miriam’s Chicken and Rice Asopao!

Miriam’s Chicken and Rice Asopao Estefan Kitchen

Miriam's Arroz Pollo Estefan Kitchen Orlando Sunset Walk

PREP TIME: 20 MIN
TOTAL COOKING TIME: 60 MIN
INGREDIENTS: 15 MIN
SERVINGS: 8 PEOPLE

INGREDIENTS:

½ cup olive oil for frying
8 chicken thighs or legs, skin on
1 ½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoon cumin
1 large onion, chopped
1 large red pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, crushed
2 cups chicken broth
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

2 teaspoon Saffron
1 ea bay leaf
2 teaspoons oregano
2 cups rice
½ cup frozen green baby peas
2 oz green olives
4 oz sweet plantain
Roasted Red Peppers

Directions
1.) In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the oil and sauté the
chicken, browning on both sides. Season with salt, pepper and
dashes of cumin. Remove chicken once the fat has been released.
Reserve.
2.) In the same pot, you fried the chicken in, sauté the onion and red
pepper over medium heat until the onion is translucent. Add the crushed garlic and cook an additional minute or two, stirring frequently.
3.) Return chicken to the same pot; add broth, tomato sauce, saffron,
bay leaf, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the rice, stir to coat and fully submerge it. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. When the
rice has absorbed some of the liquid, cover and simmer on low heat
for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked
4.) Add the frozen peas, olives, roasted red peppers & sweet plantain during the last five minutes of cooking only. Remove from heat
5.) Serve.

Estefan Kitchen is open from 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit http://estefankitchenorlando.com/.

On the Go in Orlando: February 7-10, 2020

The City Beautiful and Central Florida have so much to offer outside of the parks, and every week we’ll be sharing our top picks for events outside of the parks you’ll want to put on your calendar while you are On the Go in Orlando!

On the Go in Orlando: February 7-10, 2020

Disney’s Aladdin

Until February 9, various showtimes

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801

Some 10 million audience members worldwide have had the chance to experience the magic of “Disney’s Aladdin,” and starting on January 22, the show will begin a 24 performance run in the Walt Disney Theatre at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

“Disney’s Aladdin” brings the timeless Disney animated feature film to life with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle.

Winefest at Lakeridge Winery

February 7-9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 U.S. 27 North, Clermont, Florida 34715

Lakeridge Winery is hosting their 30th annual Winefest celebrating the previous year’s harvest including their full range of award-winning table wines.

Winefest goers can enjoy a marketplace with local artists and crafters, live music, food vendors, and complimentary Winery tours and tastings.

Admission for adults (ages 13 and over) is $10 and children under 12 are free.

A portion of the weekend’s proceeds will go to support the South Lake Chamber of Commerce

Art After Dark: Food Truck Edition

Friday, February 7, 6 to 9 p.m.

Lake Nona Town Center, 6900 Tavistock Lakes Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32827

The First Friday of every month Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center for Art After Dark with Food Trucks and activities for the entire family.

Perfectly nestled between delicious Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen, Park Pizza & Brewing Co, and Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine.

Admission to this three-hour event is free and begins at 6 p.m.

Paws in the Park

Saturday, February 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lake Eola Park, 512 E Washington Street, Orlando, Florida 32801

Grab your leash, Orlando’s Largest Pet Parade during Paws in the Park is happening this weekend!

On Saturday, February 8, Paws in the Park will parade around Lake Eola (in style!) in support of Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, the region’s oldest and largest animal welfare agency.

Paws in the Park festivities include, dog games for pups of all sizes, a PAWrade Costume Contest for cash prizes, shopping, a Beer Garden, food trucks, adoptable pets, and so much more!

Make sure you visit the event details page to see all of the fun activities planned that will help the Pet Alliance save over 6,000 dogs and cats this year.

9th Annual Dragon Parade Lunar New Year Festival

Sunday, February 9, 11am-12pm

Mills 50 District, Parade begins at the corner of Lake Highland Drive and N. Mills Avenue

The Dragon Parade kicks off the celebration at 11 a.m. at the corner of Lake Highland Dr. and N. Mills Ave and ends at N. Thornton Avenue and Colonial Drive.

The parade will be followed by four hours of activities at the Lunar Festival, 728 N. Thornton Ave., Orlando, FL 32803, that will feature Asian entertainment including Dragon dancing, Lion Dancing, cultural dances, martial arts, taiko drummers, arts and crafts and Asian food.

Want to know what is happening in the parks? Check out what you can experience in the parks this month!

You can find more information about what you can do in and around Orlando by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2020 Guide

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Throw me something, mister!

The nightly Mardi Gras parade takes over the streets of Universal Studios Florida with intricate floats, dancers and stilt performers with extraordinary costumes, and countless beads.

This year six new floats will debut inspired by the ‘Treasures of the Deep’ theme in addition to returning favorites including the Riverboat and King Gator floats that have all-new décor celebrating the 25th anniversary of Mardi Gras.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Parade — Universal Orlando Resort

The parade times change nightly, so here is a rundown of when the parade starts by time:

The parade steps off at 5:15 pm: February 11
The parade steps off at 5:45 pm: February 20
The parade steps off at 6:00 pm: February 2-7
The parade steps off at 6:15 pm: February 9-10, 12-14, 17 – 19, 21, 23 – 28 and March 1- 6
The parade steps off at 7:30 pm: March 9-12, 16-19, 23-27, March 30 – April 2
The parade steps off at 7:45 pm: February 1, 8, 15, 16, 22, 29 and March 7, 8, 13-15, 20-22, 28-29

Mardi Gras Concert Series

On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music including Marshmello, Luis Fonsi, and TLC on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 - — Universal Orlando Resort

All shows begin at 8:30 pm, and below is the full Mardi Gras Concert Series Line-up:

Saturday, February 1: The Roots
Saturday, February 8: Karol G
Saturday, February 15: Bell Biv DeVoe
Sunday, February 16: Live
Saturday, February 22: Kool & the Gang
Saturday, February 29: TLC
Saturday, March 7: REO Speedwagon
Sunday, March 8: Dustin Lynch
Friday, March 13: Luis Fonsi
Saturday, March 14: The All-American Rejects
Sunday, March 15: Diana Ross
Friday, March 20: Chris Young
Saturday, March 21: Earth, Wind, & Fire
Sunday, March 22: Marshmello
Saturday, March 28: Why Don’t We
Sunday, March 29: Gavin DeGraw

French Quarter Courtyard

The heart of the Mardi Gras fun at Universal Studios Florida is the French Quarter Courtyard!

Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands.

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Zydeco Stage

Concerts are free and take place on the French Quarter Courtyard Stage on the following dates:

February 1-13: Dirty Bourbon River Show
February 14 – March 5: Free Agents Brass Band
March 6-21: New Breed Brass Band
March 22 – April 2, Naughty Professor Brass Band

Celebrate Global Cuisine

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Cauliflower Dirty Rice — Universal Orlando Resort

Food is central to the Mardi Gras experience at Universal Studios Florida.

Guests will find fan-favorite classics like Gumbo and Jambalaya as well as new dishes in the Carnival Around The Universe tent, where the menu changes every two weeks, in the French Quarter Courtyard.

Mardi Gras Universal Orlando Concert Universal Studios Florida Jambalaya

Want to try it all? The Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard is the best way to sample these unique flavors as well as the event exclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. There are a variety of Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard options to choose from starting at $30 plus tax. Among these options is an exclusive Passholder Tasting Lanyard, which includes 15 sample dishes for $60 plus tax.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Tasting Lanyard — Universal Orlando Resort

Add-on experiences

As part of the family-friendly version of the renowned Big Easy bash, guests can also purchase festive Mardi Gras add-on experiences.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 The Bayou Boil — Universal Orlando Resort

The Bayou Boil, an exclusive Mardi Gras experience, will allow guests to enjoy a Louisiana- style boil featuring crawfish, shrimp, potatoes and corn-on-the-cob, as well as an exclusive viewing area for the Mardi Gras parade with king cake, beignets, sparkling wine, and assorted non-alcoholic beverages. Tickets for adults are $59.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $39.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Beignets — Universal Orlando Resort

For guests with a sweet tooth, the Mardi Gras Feast & Floats Dessert Party is available on select nights from March 9 through April 2, giving them the best view of the Mardi Gras parade while enjoying specialty desserts, savory bites, hot chocolate, assorted non-alcoholic beverages, and sparkling wine and cider. But the party doesn’t stop there – guests will also have an exclusive viewing area for Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration. Tickets for adults are $49.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $29.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.

Merchandise

All new this year is the Mardi Gras Tribute Store, located on the streets of New York, which is a highly themed shopping experience where you can pick up event-exclusive merchandise as well as fancy beads and masks.

Mardi Gras Special Ticket Offers

Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes until April 2.

What’s included with admission

All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).

Weather

Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Studios Florida are held rain or shine, and often there is a big change in temperature from morning to night so be sure to check the weather before you leave for the park.

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Monster Jam World Finals Returns to Orlando in 2020

Monster Jam World Finals Orlando 2019 — Feld Entertainment

Monster Jam, the unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable larger-than-life sport, is proud to announce that Monster Jam World Finals will return to Orlando, Florida in 2020. Monster Jam World Finals XXI will be held at Camping World Stadium May 2 & 3, 2020 featuring seven championship crowning moments.

The championship weekend will deliver unprecedented access to the most Monster Jam athletes and the larger-than-life Monster Jam trucks they drive. Tickets for the action-packed championship weekend of family fun racing are on sale now.

Monster Jam features world-class male and female athletes competing in the same events for the same championships on the same perfectly engineered dirt tracks that push these ever-evolving, state-of-the-art 12,000-pound trucks to the limit.

Fans will witness a fierce battle for the championship with each competitor tearing up the dirt with gravity-defying feats going head-to-head for points in the Showdown, Skills Challenge and Racing competitions on Saturday and High Jump and Freestyle competitions on Sunday.

Champions throughout the regular season receive an automatic bid to Monster Jam World Finals XXI. New in 2020, an eighth invitation will be extended to an internationally born driver who does not already compete in the US or Canada.

Fans can come enjoy the Monster Jam Pit Party pre-show experience for free to all ticket holders – which gives fans unparalleled access to view their favorite trucks up-close and meet the star drivers for autographs and photos.

Qualifying drivers and featured trucks will be announced beginning March 2020.

Tickets start at $50. Travel packages are available. To give fans a glimpse behind-the-scenes of Monster Jam World Finals a track walk before the event is included with Gold Package 2-day tickets, along with early access to the Pit Party, and tickets can be purchased at MonsterJam.com

Halloween Horror Nights 2019 Line-Up

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando returns to Universal Studios Florida to take fear to the max on select nights September 6-November 2, 2019.

During this year’s all-new Halloween Horror Nights, the 80’s return with a vengeance bringing with them some of the biggest frights of the era with 10 totally terrifying haunted houses, five pulse-pounding scare zones, and outrageous live entertainment.

Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Florida 2019

So let’s star this year’s HHN season with a look at everything you will encounter during the event!

Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses

Enter ten terrifying haunted houses, inspired by the biggest names in fear. You’re never quite sure if your spine is tingling with dread or sheer excitement.

All-New STRANGER THINGS

Prepare to go even further into the chilling world of the Upside Down as STRANGER THINGS returns to Halloween Horror Nights in an all-new haunted house. Experience the most terrifying moments of STRANGER THINGS 2 & 3 as you face snarling Demodogs and scream through iconic scenes from Hopper’s cabin to the Starcourt Mall.

Us

Jordan Peele’s new original nightmare comes to life as the Wilson family faces the ultimate opponent: themselves. Enter the funhouse on the Santa Cruz Pier where you’ll experience the horror of little Adelaide Wilson when she comes face to face with her menacing mirror image. Freeze in terror and disbelief as the Wilson family—and you—are hunted at every turn by terrifying doubles of themselves known as the Tethered. If you’re seeing double, you’re in trouble.

Universal Monsters

Frankenstein. Dracula. The Wolfman. The world’s most terrifying monsters have come together to tear you apart. Flee through a dark Bavarian forest as the savage Wolfman grows ever closer. Try to escape from the manmade monster within Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory. Face the fanged terrors in Dracula’s castle. And encounter other untold horrors. It’s the more, the scarier.

Ghostbusters

A rift between worlds has opened, releasing apparitions of every shape and size. Step right into the original film where Slimer and other ghoulish spirits, specters and ectoplasm-dripping phantasms materialize where you least expect. Your screams are going to be big. Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man big.

Killer Klowns from Outer Space

If ever there was a reason why people are afraid of clowns, this is it. The Killer Klowns from Outer Space have landed in an all-new haunted house. Don’t let them encase you in one of their cotton candy cocoons or you could end up as a gooey snack. These Killer Klowns won’t make you scream with laughter–just scream.

House of 1000 Corpses

From “Captain Spaulding’s Museum of Monsters & Madmen” to the home of the psychotic Firefly family, Rob Zombie’s epic horror masterpiece comes to life. Scream all you want, you won’t find any mercy at the decrepit Firefly house. After all, what’s one more corpse when there are a thousand others inside.

Depths of Fear

A deep-sea mining company has built an installation deep in the ocean, but the waters are infested with parasitic Mouthbrooders. They soon slither inside the mine and spew acidic eggs upon unwilling human hosts. You’re paralyzed with horror as the infected are driven to violent madness. The pressure is building. Implosion is imminent. The creatures are everywhere. There is no escape from your watery grave.

Graveyard Games

Enter the gates of a cemetery in the dead of night, where disrespectful teens have awakened vengeful spirits. Ghosts rise to torment those who disturbed them. Skeletal beings send fear into your bones. The rictus smiles of ghastly apparitions match the screams frozen on your face. Don’t be caught dead here after dark.

Nightingales: Blood Pit

Ancient Rome has suffered its worst drought in centuries. A ruthless emperor has declared the gladiatorial games will continue nonstop until the rains return. The nightingales, a grisly race of creatures, are drawn to the dead and dying. You enter the fray just as the rain begins to fall, recoiling with fear and disgust as the ravenous nightingales feed. Try to survive alongside gladiators, but with nothing to protect you, you’re history.

Yeti: Terror of the Yukon

In a remote part of Canada that’s all but uninhabitable, loggers and trappers seek refuge from the cold. But there is no escape from beasts as brutal as the winter. Enter a logging camp that’s been torn apart. Cringe at the trail of blood leading to caves no humans have lived to see. You’re in Yeti territory, and they’ll stop you cold.

Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones

Surrounded in shadow by screams and mad laughter, face nightmarish creatures on streets twisted into sinister scare zones.

Zombieland Double Tap

“Check the Back Seat.” “Beware of Bathrooms.” “Always Double Tap.” Obey every rule if you don’t want to end up a zombie snack. Welcome to the United States of Zombieland. You may know the first movie, but you gotta make it through the sequel, too. Can you survive while everyone around you becomes meat?

Rob Zombie Hellbilly Deluxe

Step into the heavy metal horror of Rob Zombie as many of his most popular songs have come to life. Zombie’s haunting lyrics and pulse-pounding music crank up the intensity as you and your pursuers are driven to an adrenaline-fueled frenzy of ragining madness.

Anarch-cade

A sinister 80s-inspired arcade has taken over the Avenue of the Stars and you only get one life. Blacklights. A gang of neon slashers. Laser lights. It could be a party, except for the chainsaws. Once you scream, it’s game over.

Vanity Ball

Your flesh is the canvas in Hollywood. Rabid fans cheer as their favorite blade-wielding artists slice up willing participants into horrific living works of art. And they can’t wait to take a scalpel to you.

Vikings Undead

Brutal, horn-helmeted warriors have risen from the grave and laid siege to Central Park. Barred from Valhalla, the Viking paradise, these skeletal fighters have channeled their vindictive rage into an endless onslaught of gore. Bloodlust never dies.

Halloween Horror Nights Live Entertainment

Lose yourself in outrageous live entertainment filled with diabolically entertaining surprises.

Halloween Marathon of Mayhem

A monstrous new show is rising from the depths of Universal Studios’ lagoon with a spectacle of screaming neon and synth. Pounding electro music, giant water screens and piercing lasers combine for a twisted new take on Stranger Things, Ghostbusters, Killer Klowns from Outer Space and Universal Monsters. This all-new show is a largerthan-life mix tape of retro mayhem.

Academy of Villains: Altered States

This wicked talented group of artists is back for an all-new, bigger and better performance featuring a killer mix of dance and theatrics.

Rides & Attractions

Escape to some of Universal Studios’ most exhilarating attractions where heart pounding takes on a different meaning.

Here is a list of attraction open on event nights:

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts*
Revenge of the Mummy
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
Fast & Furious: Supercharged*
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D*
The Simpsons Ride**

*Closes prior to event end.
**Open select event nights only.

From cinematic screams to the most horrifying cult classics, there’s no escape from the decade that just won’t die.

We are excited to bring you all sorts of Halloween Horror Nights coverage and frights, so for the latest make sure you are following @onthegoinmco on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Experience Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park After Dark

Courtesy photo Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

Get ready to see adventure in a whole new light!

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park now open for nighttime adventures

If you are looking for adventure look no further than the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park in Kissimmee, because now you can have nighttime adventures with the addition of new lighting on several of its exhilarating courses.

Adventurers can experience night climbs on Friday and Saturday evenings. The adventure park will open in the morning with a first climb at 8:30 a.m. It will then close briefly in the afternoon, reopening for night departures at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m.

The all-new night adventure includes access to three courses: Green (minimum elevation/minimum skill level), Blue (medium elevation/medium skill level) and Silver (advanced elevation/medium skill). In addition to the aerial courses, guests will receive two rides down the park’s giant 425′ twin ziplines.

“We’ve been providing an awesome experience for visitors and residents alike for years,” said Pina Barbusci, one of the park’s owners. “We’re excited to open up even more opportunities for guests to feel the thrill of a Tree Trek adventure and make lasting memories with these night climbs.”

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park contains 97 aerial challenges, four adult courses, two kids courses and giant twin ziplines, making it the perfect experience for the whole family. Surrounded by Florida’s natural beauty in a pine forest, the park is one of the top-rated experiences in Kissimmee. It is located just minutes from the Disney area.

Nighttime climb tickets are intended for those 9 and older who can reach a height of 5’9″ while standing flat on the ground. Tickets are $44.95 each. Additional items such as gloves and unlimited water are available for purchase.

For more information or to book your climb, visit orlandotreetrek.com.

Ride Kilimanjaro Safaris and help #ProtectThePride

Protect the Pride Kilimanjaro Safaris — Disney

DISCLOSURE: I was invited to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to help spread the word about how you can help #ProtectThePride, but all opinions are my own.

While I have ridden Kilimanjaro Safaris MANY times at Disney’s Animal Kingdom this was my best two week excursion yet, and I wanted to share it with you!

But that isn’t all I wanted to share with you…

Right now for every guest who rides the Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park in Florida during opening week of The Lion King film (July 19 – 25, 2019), Disney Conservation Fund will donate $2 (up to $350,000) to the Wildlife Conservation Network in support of the Lion Recovery Fund’s efforts to help double the number of lions across Africa by 2050.

How awesome is that???

This is just one of many ways that you can celebrate The Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!!!

If you haven’t had the chance to ride Kilimanjaro Safaris, here’s what you can expect.

Onboard the Kilimanjaro Safaris you explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to 34 species living in 110 acres of picturesque open plains, shady forest landscapes and rocky wetlands.

Your rugged safari vehicle is driven by an expert guide, who helps point out animals and shares fascinating wildlife facts during this extraordinary expedition.

On each expedition vehicle there is a listing of the animals you **may** see on Safari, but these are real animals who have minds of their own so every expedition is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Be sure to keep your eyes open and have a camera ready—you never know what you’ll see on a Kilimanjaro Safaris outing.

Introducing Walt Disney World’s iTV

The Walt Disney World Resort is introducing the interactive iTV at the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort that allows guests to have a more connected stay!

Choose from interactive TV schedules, Disney on Demand Content, connect your device to watch streaming content, view your PhotoPass pictures & MDX plans (including dining and FP+ Reservations), see an interactive guide to the resort, and view park information!

What’s even better is that Disney+ will also be available on the new Resort iTV!!!!

The Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World serves as the new main entrance point for guests visiting the resort adding a total of 545 new guest rooms (including 50 suites) to the resort, as well as feature a gorgeous two-story lobby.

An oasis set on the shore of Lago Dorado, the reimagined Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort celebrates the daring spirit of the great Spanish explorers, artists, writers and architects.

Throughout the resort, guests will discover a blend of classic Spanish influences, imaginative Disney touches and modern comforts both inside and out.

The resort’s more than 1,800 existing rooms have also been fully updated with new fixtures, furnishings, lighting, and a fresh color palette will tie the entire resort experience together, blending the new and the newly reimagined.

Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for even more Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs content!

SeaWorld Orlando announces the return of their popular Craft Beer Festival with enhanced health and safety measures to keep guests safe and gives holiday celebration information

Upcoming SeaWorld Orlando Events:

Safety:​

Best Way to Play:

Here are the activities that you will find at SEA LIFE Orlando for Shark Week:

Give Yourself Extra Time

Don’t Forget Your Face Covering

Review Park Information

Meal Planning

Don’t Overpack

Prepare to Combat the Heat

Download Official Theme Park Apps Before Arrival

Guest Parking and Entrances

Temperature Screening

Limited Contact

Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures

Cleanliness and Sanitization

Cast Training

About These Measures

You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about these events and more on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!

On the Go in the Parks: New this Weekend

On the Go in the Parks: Returning Favorites

Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about these events and more on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!

On the Go in the Parks: New this Weekend

On the Go in the Parks: Returning Favorites

Miriam’s Chicken and Rice Asopao Estefan Kitchen

On the Go in Orlando: February 7-10, 2020

Want to know what is happening in the parks? Check out what you can experience in the parks this month!

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Halloween Horror Nights Haunted Houses

All-New STRANGER THINGS

Us

Universal Monsters

Ghostbusters

Killer Klowns from Outer Space

House of 1000 Corpses

Depths of Fear

Graveyard Games

Nightingales: Blood Pit

Yeti: Terror of the Yukon

Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones

Zombieland Double Tap

Rob Zombie Hellbilly Deluxe

Anarch-cade

Vanity Ball

Vikings Undead

Halloween Horror Nights Live Entertainment

Halloween Marathon of Mayhem

Academy of Villains: Altered States

Rides & Attractions

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park now open for nighttime adventures

DISCLOSURE: I was invited to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to help spread the word about how you can help #ProtectThePride, but all opinions are my own.

Safety: