On the Go in MCO - Page 191 of 224 - A lifestyle and informational blog about all that central Florida has to offer! Enjoy our unique perspectives and news about the Orlando area attractions and resorts.

Thanksgiving Dining at Walt Disney World

Mickey and the gang celebrating Thanksgiving — Thanksgiving image copyright Disney

If you are like me, and you are finding yourself at Walt Disney World over Thanksgiving and don’t have set plans yet, don’t fret. There are great dining options across property in both the parks and resorts. Some are even still available for dinner reservations at this point in time (11pm Wednesday, 11/14) (subject to change of course). Even if you don’t want to make a reservation for some of the restaurants for a Thanksgiving lunch or dinner, there are counter service locations that can still fill your craving for a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Character Thanksgiving Meals

Some of the character meals across the parks and resorts are getting special treatment just for Thanksgiving. They offer holiday menus with many having traditional meals, with others focusing more on their own twist on the holiday fare. At the Contemporary Resort, Chef Mickey’s buffet is offering a Thanksgiving dinner. Across Bay Lake at Fort Wilderness, Mickey’s Backyard BBQ becomes Mickey’s Backyard Thanksgiving feast featuring turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and many of your favorites. In the parks, Tusker House, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is having Donald’s Dining Safari Thanksgiving Lunch and then a non-character Thanksgiving meal for dinner. Walt Disney World Swan’s Garden Grove is having a character buffet dinner as well.

Table Service Thanksgiving Meals

Many of the restaurants in the parks are also providing meal options for the holiday. In the Magic Kingdom, Liberty Tree Tavern has both family style lunch and dinners. Also, the Diamond Horseshoe is hosting a table service dinner. At Epcot, the Biergarten in Germany has both Thanksgiving lunch and dinner options. Hollywood Studios has their buffet open for lunch and dinner as well as the Fantasmic dinner package. And, as already mentioned, in the Animal Kingdom, Tusker House is offering their dinner buffet.

At the resorts is where you will find most of the special holiday menus being offered. Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has a special prix fixe menu. Cape May Cafe at the Beach Club has a dinner buffet and the Captain’s Grille at the Yacht Club is serving both lunch and dinner buffets. At the Grand Floridian, Citrico’s has a prix fixe dinner menu. Also with a prix fixe menu is Flying Fish Cafe at the Boardwalk. For some a la carte menu options you could try lunch or dinner at the Grand Floridian Cafe. Still at that resort for dinner you can have a Thanksgiving dinner at Narcoossee’s. Trail’s End at Fort Wilderness is having a lunch and dinner buffet. At the Polynesian you have lunch or dinner at Kona Cafe, Olivia’s at Old Key West is also serving both meals, as are Sanaa at Kidani Village, the Wave at the Contemporary and the Turf Club at Saratoga Springs. For more family style meals, check out either Whispering Canyon Cafe at the Wilderness Lodge for lunch or dinner, or dinner at the Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club.

Are you staying at the Walt Disney World Swan or Dolphin? If so, don’t worry, they have great options too! Fresh Mediterranean Market at the Dolphin is having a lunch buffet. The Swan’s Il Mulino is serving Thanksgiving dinner a la carte as is the Dolphin’s Todd English’s bluezoo. Downtown Disney even has some options for you at the House of Blues for dinner and Planet Hollywood for both lunch and dinner.

Counter Service Thanksgiving Meals

So, what if you, like me, have waited til the last minute and maybe there aren’t reservations available for your party of five? Don’t worry, Disney has that covered too. In Epcot, Sunshine Seasons, one of my favorite counter service options already, is supposed to be offering a special holiday menu too. Don’t want to go to a park, there’s a resort that has your name written all over it. At Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, the End Zone Food Court is even getting into the holiday meal spirit with a Thanksgiving dinner from noon until 10pm with turkey, mashed potatoes, candied yams, vegetables, cranberry sauce, rolls and your choice of either apple or pumpkin pie for only $10.99 for guests 10 and up and $5.99 for children 3 to 9 (prices, times and menu items subject to change without notice).

All in all, it looks like Walt Disney World has some pretty great options of many varieties of cuisine and location for just about any appetite. Many of these options are on the Disney Dining Plan and as I mentioned, a few are even still available at this time. If you find yourself at WDW over the holiday, have a Happy Thanksgiving and happy eating!

Light Fixtures of New Fantasyland

I am a sucker for details and New Fantasyland doesn’t disappoint with the amazing new light fixtures throughout this section of the park! While I’ve said from the get go the thing I’ve most been looking forward to was Be Our Guest Restaurant, these architectural nuances are incredible. I will highlight some of my favorites here, but will also include the video montage of all 113 pictures I captured during my recent tour.

One of the things that most impressed me was how many different styles of light fixtures appeared in New Fantasyland and how each individual one seemed to perfectly reflect the theme of that particular location. For instance, the lights on the bridge to Be Our Guest restaurant, which is set in the Beast’s castle, are strong and masculine looking. They present a foreboding aura that both beckon you in with their light, but also warn you of the potential danger ahead.

Be Our Guest light fixture — Be Our Guest light

Be Our Guest chandelier light fixtures — Be Our Guest chandeliers

The light fixtures in and around Maurice’s cottage, where the Enchanted Tales with Belle attraction is housed, are full of whimsy and innovation, much like the man himself. Outside the cottage and in his workshop are some of the most creative uses of lighting to be found in New Fantasyland so far. Then, once you are transported to the Beast’s castle, the ornate details are showcased in the beautiful chandeliers, and of course with Lumiere.

Belle’s village and Gaston’s Tavern in particular provide more flair in their choices of light fixtures. To no one’s surprise, antlers are used in Gaston’s decorations throughout his tavern with several different styles of lighting, including a large chandelier, complete with coonskin cap. One of my favorite lights was actually found in the restroom in the village. It was a gorgeous orange hue and fit in with much of the wrought iron work in the surrounding area.

Gaston's Tavern light fixtures — Gaston’s Tavern

I think the area that I was most entranced with was Prince Eric’s castle and the queue for Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid. This is where my absolute favorite light fixtures were found. Everything is so incredibly well tied in with the nautical theme. Having lived twenty plus years of my life within ten minutes of either the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico, I’ve been constantly drawn to the water. The lights appear to have been kissed by either the bright orange of the sun or the soft blues and greens of the sea. I can appreciate so many elements that were incorporated in this attraction’s exterior and queue.

My favorite light in the Little Mermaid queue

Overall, I think the Imagineers have hit a home run with all of these intricate details. This is what Disney does best, sell the story in the details. There are even semi-permanent light fixtures sitting atop the construction walls that separate New Fantasyland from the work being done on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train coaster. I am absolutely in love with these details. Is this area of the park directed at me? No. Will I be spending a great amount of time here? Not necessarily. However, I can appreciate it all in the grand scheme of things and will continue to see where this transformation takes one of my favorite parks. In the meantime though, I will be happy exploring the amazing expansion that we have been given at the Magic Kingdom.

httpv://youtu.be/OdEAMkdpSzs

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY HOST 4TH ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY HOST 4TH ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE TO BENEFIT SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK

ORLANDO, Fla. – NOVEMBER 9, 2012 – With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is again collecting food to help stock Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFBCF)’s pantry shelves. During this difficult economy and as the holidays approach, the agency’s need for food donations continues to increase.

For one day only, Thursday, November 15 between 7-9 a.m., Ringling Bros. is again offering Central Florida consumers the opportunity to support their community and donate non-perishable, unexpired food items in exchange for ticket vouchers to Built To Amaze!, the all-new 143rd Edition of The Greatest Show On Earth®. A donation of 10 food items entitles each consumer to one ticket voucher, with a limit of four vouchers (40 food items donated) per household. Vouchers can be redeemed at the Amway Center box office for the Thursday, January 10, 7:30 p.m. opening night performance. Ticket vouchers are available to those who donate on a first-come, first-serve basis while supplies last. Free ticket vouchers apply to opening night, promenade level only.

Ringling Bros. and SHFBCF are making it easy with drive-through service! No need to find a parking space or carry heavy grocery bags – consumers can even stay in their PJ’s! They can simply drive to the Blue Lot at the Amway Center (located off Hughey Ave, parallel to I-4, just past Hughey and Church), stay in their cars, and volunteers will meet them and exchange ticket vouchers for donations, right through car windows.

Consumers can return to the Amway Center box office between Nov. 16 (when tickets go on sale to the general public) and January 12 to redeem vouchers for tickets. The Amway Center box office is located on Church Street. Short-term (15 minutes) parking is available in front of the box office on Church Street except during events. The Amway Center box office does not take ticket orders over the phone. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and three (3) hours prior to any event.

Ringling Bros. has raised more than 10,000 pounds of food for SHFBCF since 2009. Hundreds of Central Floridians have participated — from dads in gym shorts to moms in PJs to young professionals on their way to work. “This format works very well for us to collect a significant amount of donations in just two hours,” said Sasha Hausman, development manager for SHFBCF. “We are again encouraging members of our community to participate, and grateful to Feld Entertainment for their partnership.”

SHFBCF secures and distributes food and grocery products to approximately 500 agencies that feed the hungry throughout Central Florida. SHFBCF accepts nonperishable food donations including boxed cereal, stuffing, canned meat, fruit, cranberry sauce, gravy and vegetables. The agency’s most needed items include nonfat dry milk, peanut butter, baby food, and canned tuna, meat, vegetables and fruit.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® is proud to present Built To Amaze! at Amway Center January 10-13. Drama, surprise and wonder build the excitement so BIG that it could only be The Greatest Show On Earth®. Tickets for Thursday and Friday performances are: $85 (Circus Celebrity), $65 (Front Row), $35 (VIP), $27, $22 and $15. Tickets for Saturday and Sunday performances are: $100 (Circus Celebrity), $70 (Front Row), $40 (VIP), $27, $22 and $15. Ticketmaster service charges and facility fees not included. All seats are reserved, and tickets go on sale November 16 at 10:00 a.m. Tickets are available at www.ringling.com or www.ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster outlet, by calling 800-745-3000, or at the Amway Center box office (phone: 407-440-7900). For group ticket sales and information, call 866-248-8740.

About Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida

SHFBCF is a member of Feeding America – the largest charitable domestic hunger-relief organization in the United States. SHFBCF secures and distributes food and grocery products to approximately 500 local nonprofit feeding programs throughout Central Florida. Last year, with the help of numerous donors, volunteers and a caring, committed community, the food bank distributed more than 36 million pounds of grocery products – the equivalent of more than 24 million meals – to partner programs such as food pantries, soup kitchens, women’s shelters, senior centers, day care centers and Kids Cafes. On average, more than 55,000 different people receive assistance provided by SHFBCF each week. To learn more about SHFBCF, visit www.FeedHopeNow.org.

About Feld Entertainment

Feld Entertainment is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that lift the human spirit and create indelible memories, with 30 million people in attendance at its shows each year. Feld Entertainment’s productions have appeared in more than 70 countries on six continents and include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Feld Motor Sports, Disney On Ice and Disney Live! For more information on Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® visit www.ringling.com.

About Amway Center

The Orlando Magic served as the developer of the Amway Center, which hosts major national events, concerts and family shows. Opened in the fall of 2010, the facility is owned and operated by the City of Orlando on behalf of the Central Florida community. The Amway Center was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior features a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one facade. A 180-foot tall tower serves as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. At 875,000 square feet, the new arena is almost triple the size of the old Amway Arena (367,000 square feet). The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, featuring 1,100 digital monitors, the tallest high-definition video board in an NBA venue and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Awarded 2012 Sports Facility of the Year by Sports Business Journal. For more information about the Amway Center, visit www.amwaycenter.com,

Wordless Wednesday – Down A Dark Alley At Universal Studios Florida

Wordless Wednesday – Down A Dark Alley At Universal Studios Florida

Ice Featuring Merry Madagascar At The Gaylord Palms Resort Is Here!

Ice Featuring Merry Madagascar At The Gaylord Palms Resort Is Here!

Two Million Pounds of Sculptured ICE await visitors to Gaylord Palms’
“Florida Freezer”

Brrr! Do you feel that chill in the air? It’s time to bundle up in those cozy winter coats, hats and scarves and slip on over to Central Florida’s coolest one-of-a-kind 9-degree Christmas attraction: ICE! featuring DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc.’s “Merry Madagascar” at Gaylord Palms. Celebrating its 10^th year, ICE! is more fun than ever, exhibiting more than 20,000 square feet of hand-carved ice sculptures made of 2 million pounds of ice — including four incredible two-story ice slides. The adventure begins Nov. 10 for people of all ages, and is open seven days a week.

Lions and Penguins and ICE! Oh, My!

Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant color blast as you wander through the icy wonderland at your own pace. Relive the story of how Alex the Lion and his friends saved Christmas after Santa and his reindeer crash onto the island of Madagascar with this inspiring tribute to the unforgettable DreamWorks Animation TV classic “Merry Madagascar.”

Eleven vignettes showcase different scenes from the TV classic. Capture the charm of the “Florida Freezer” with characters such as Melman the Giraffe, the tallest sculpture, standing at 10 feet. Dare to disregard the pizzazz of the penguins. Not to disappoint, we’ve also got something for those thrill-seekers searching for a way to make their indelible mark. Enter a room featuring the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Big Ben, St. Basil and the sphinx and plummet down one of four massive ice slides!

A team of 40 talented artisans traveled from Harbin, China, to work meticulously for more than a month to slice and shave 6,000 blocks of colored and clear ice, each weighing approximately 400 pounds, to carve this incredible experience. To illuminate their craftsmanship, they froze more than 1,000 LED light tubes into the attraction.

IMPORTANT: ICE! is kept at a frigid 9 degrees Fahrenheit (-13 degrees Celsius). Be sure to dress appropriately: Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required. Hooded winter coats are provided for your warmth and comfort inside the attraction and are available in a variety of sizes, including sizes for children. Hats and gloves are strongly recommended and may be purchased on site at the ICE! house gift shop.

Ice Featuring Merry Madagascar at Gaylord Palms is a can’t-miss event for everyone this Christmas season. Whether you’re looking for something to do during the afternoon to ignite the holiday spirit or you’re a thrill-seeker in search of your next daring adventure, Ice Featuring Merry Madagascar is for you. Additional activities offered around the resort free of charge include a massive 54-foot tall majestic Christmas tree lighting; live stage shows, including the spirited Luminescence – featuring The Edge Effect Christmas show; and the Polar Bear Pursuit Scavenger Hunt.

However, the best way to benefit from all that Gaylord Palms has to offer is to book a room and become immersed in the splendor of Christmas. Guests seeking a complete Christmas experience can purchase special “Christmassy DreamWorks Experience” packages starting at $189.99 per room, per night (for a three night stay)! Packages include unlimited visits to ICE! and a number of other activities, including a ShrekFeast Interactive Character Meal, and more!

You may feel a chill in the air, but you’ll feel warmth in your heart as you create wonderful holiday memories that last a lifetime.

Ice Featuring Merry Madagascar is open daily from Nov. 10, 2012 through Jan. 1, 2013, including holidays. Ticket prices for children start at $9.99, and adult ticket prices start at $18.99. Florida Residents — Save an extra $4 per ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.christmasatgaylordpalms.com. ICE! is presented by Coca-Cola.

Gaylord Palms Resort is located five minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746. For more information, visit www.gaylordpalms.com or call 407-586-2000.

Be sure to “Like” Gaylord Palms on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @GaylordPalms to get the most up-to-date information and promotions!

Disney Twenty-Three Winter Issue is GONNA WRECK IT!

DISNEY TWENTY THREE GETS INTO THE GAME WITH AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE MAKING OF THE 3D ANIMATED ARCADE COMEDY
WRECK-IT RALPH IN ITS ALL-NEW WINTER ISSUE

Diane Disney Miller Gives Fans a Sneak Peek Of The New Snow White Exhibit At The Walt Disney Family Museum

Go Behind The Scenes With Epic Mickey Creative Director Warren Spector And Discover How Disney Creates Blockbuster Video Games

Exclusive Interviews With Alan Menken And Sarah Silverman

It’s time to get your game on, as the winter issue of Disney twenty-three, the flagship magazine Disney Twenty-Three of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, takes readers on a vivid journey through the world of Wreck-It Ralph, the sensational new film from Walt Disney Feature Animation. The hilarious and touching film begs the question, What would happen if a video game bad guy decided he was tired of being bad?

Available nationwide on Nov. 13, Disney twenty-three answers this question through exclusive interviews with director Rich Moore, writer Phil Johnston, star Sarah Silverman and more. The naturally animated Silverman also offers her personal take on getting toon-ed into the sassy character Vanellope von Schweetz. Along with the new issue, D23 Gold Members will receive a special member-only gift: a vibrant set of pixelated Wreck-It Ralph window clings featuring Ralph, Fix-It Felix, Jr. and the Nicelanders.

“Wreck It Ralph is an imaginative, heartfelt adventure that connects many of our favorite classic video game characters with a host of new ones and is sure to delight Disney fans of all ages,” said Steven Clark, head of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. “In the winter issue, we invite D23 Members to get in the game as we take them behind the scenes with the stars and creative team of the film.”

The winter issue also celebrates the opening of the new Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs exhibit at the Walt Disney Family Museum with an in-depth look at the collection with a peek from Walt’s daughter, Diane Disney Miller, and an exclusive interview with Snow White’s live-action reference model, Marge Champion. Plus, Epic Mickey creative director Warren Spector writes about digging into the Walt Disney Archives to create blockbuster Disney video games.

Disney twenty-three also offers the latest on exciting new projects from the world of Disney and a look at some celebrated classics. In its pages, Disney fans will be able to:

Take to the stage as D23’s Billy Stanek and Radio Disney DJ Jake Whetter step into roles in Newsies and Mary Poppins on Broadway
Learn “30 Thing You Just Might Not Know About Epcot” from never-built attractions to roaming eight-foot-tall dolls
Enter the Magic Kingdom for a look at Walt Disney World’s spectacular Fantasyland expansion
Get answers to “23 Questions” with The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Newsies composer Alan Menken
Enjoy a tour D23 Presents Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives and see some of the iconic pieces now on display at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum

In conjunction with the release of winter issue of Disney twenty-three, www.D23.com will feature original and exclusive stories that complement the contents of D23’s beautiful, glossy magazine. Only available on D23.com, beginning November 13:

Exclusive outtakes and insights from Warren Spector’s revelations about the creation of Disney video games.
In celebration of The Lion King on Broadway’s 15th anniversary, Julie Taymor and Thomas Schumacher reflect on the opening night of what has become the fifth-longest running show on Broadway.
Expanded interviews and behind-the-castle-walls photos of the Fantasyland expansion at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

Disney twenty-three is delivered directly to the doorstep of all D23 Gold Members, along with a special gift. Disney twenty-three magazine is also available at retail locations across the country for $15.95, and can also be purchased online at DisneyStore.com and throughout the Disneyland® and Walt Disney World® Resorts.

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club celebrates the remarkable past, present and future of Disney, taking its name from 1923, the year Walt Disney founded his world-famous company. D23 brings its members a host of exclusive benefits, including a weekly e-mail newsletter; an array of discounts and special offers; free gifts throughout the year; and exclusive, member-only special events.

Disney fans can join the world’s only Official Disney Fan Club by visiting www.D23.com, or at select shops at the Disneyland® Resort, the Walt Disney World® Resort and www.DisneyStore.com/D23.

To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow “DisneyD23” on Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.

2013 SeaWorld Orlando Fun Card Available Now

2013 SeaWorld Orlando Fun Card Available Now

Florida residents pay for a day, get the holidays and all of 2013 to enjoy the park’s great events
and the opening of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin

The popular SeaWorld Fun Card is back. Florida residents pay for a day and come back again and again for the rest of 2012 AND all of 2013 to enjoy SeaWorld’s amazing shows, thrilling rides and special events all year long, with no blackout dates.

And buying a Fun Card now finds an even better value: Pay for a day and get the rest of 2012, including SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, and all of the great events and concerts throughout 2013. From Santa to Shamu, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration inspires lifelong family memories and traditions as waves of holiday spirit splash over the park in a watery, wintery wonderland.

2013’s Fun Card comes with an extra cool perk, too. It’s the best way to experience the largest expansion in SeaWorld history — Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin.

When Antarctica opens next spring, guests will be transported into an icy world like they’ve never seen before. They’ll explore the majestic grandeur of the South Pole and see it through the penguins’ eyes on an exhilarating first-of-its-kind family ride. Then, they’ll step out and explore a penguin colony in an expanse that’s enveloping in cool extremes: bringing families above and below the penguins’ icy world. It’s
a one-of-a-kind experience families won’t forget.

Plus Fun Card members can enjoy all of SeaWorld’s incredible 2013 events:

• Just for Kids! (Saturdays, Jan. 12 – Feb. 2)

Spend super-silly Saturdays at this amazing festival that’s just for kids! This fun-sized festival of
family-friendly excitement and activities also includes live shows featuring the best in children’s
entertainment, including Imagination Movers and Choo-Choo Soul featuring Genevieve.

• Bands, Brew & BBQ (Weekends, Feb. 9 – March 3)

Enjoy four weekends of smokin’ hot concerts Saturdays AND Sundays with hot acts like Big
& Rich, sizzling BBQ from favorite local restaurants and BBQ experts, and an array of thirst-
quenching beer in an amazing atmosphere.

• Viva La Música (Saturdays, April 13 – May 4)
Spice up your Saturdays with the hottest Hispanic festival in town. Enjoy a variety of delicious Latin
cuisine and specialty drinks along with fiery performances from some of the finest acts in Latin
music.

• Summer Nights (Summer 2013)

Beat the heat and celebrate the fun of summer at this nighttime spectacular. Rock out with Shamu
at the summer favorite, Shamu Rocks and see the always entertaining Clyde and Seamore at Sea
Lions Tonite. Then, head over to Bayside Stadium to end your night with the marvelous fireworks
and fountains finale, Reflections.

• Halloween Spooktacular (Weekends in October)

Bring the little ones out to experience the ultimate, family-friendly Halloween event in town. Enjoy
this underwater “fantasea” experience that includes trick-or-treating, splashy sea-like characters
and sea-themed arts-and-crafts.

• SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration (Select dates in November/December 2013)

Experience the waves of holiday spirit that will splash over you during this incredible holiday event.
Celebrate the season with the whole family at this wintery, watery wonderland. Enjoy the beautiful,
festive atmosphere while catching some of the amazing shows that are only offered during this
special celebration.

• New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld (Dec. 31)

Ring in the New Year with our fabulous display of bold fireworks accompanied by a musical

celebration that is sure to send a wave of welcome to the New Year ahead.

Fun Cards are on sale now to Florida residents for the cost of a single-day SeaWorld admission ($89 for adults and $81 for children ages 3-9). The Fun Card is valid from the date of purchase and good throughout all of 2013 with no blackout dates. Fun Cards are available at the park’s front gate, at SeaWorldOrlando.com or by calling (888) 800-5447.

Visit SeaWorldOrlando.com for more information.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates 10 parks across the U.S. including SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch
Gardens parks in Tampa, Fla. and Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove and Aquatica in Orlando; Sesame Place near Philadelphia, Pa.; and water parks Adventure Island in Tampa and Water Country USA in Williamsburg. The 10 parks play host to 25 million guests each year and employ 26,000 people nationwide. To learn more, visit SeaWorldParksandEntertainment.com or call toll-free 1-888-800-5447. Additionally, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment created the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, a non-profit, private charitable foundation committed to supporting wildlife and habitat conservation, research, education and animal rescue programs worldwide. Learn more at SWBG-ConservationFund.org.

Howl at the Moon PARTY!

Howl at the Moon Party!!!

So as it is known, I am a Lucky Girl! On my latest streak of Luck, I have won a Party at the Orlando Howl at the Moon and because I love nothing more than sharing my wealth I am inviting ALL of our readers!!!!!!

Who: The On The Go Staff and Friends! You included of course!

When: Friday, November 16, 2012

Where: Howl At The Moon Piano Bar, International Drive, Orlando, Florida

What Time: 6:00 pm- Whenever You Please

Why: Because Aurora wins everything and finally she has something she can share!

Details: FREE COVER when you arrive between 6:00 pm-8:30 pm, One Free Drink before 9:00 pm when you tell them you are with OnTheGoInMCO, Appetizer Buffet till 8:00 pm and the chance to see some hilarity going on with everyone there!

Have you ever been to Howl at the Moon?

“Howl at the Moon is the total entertainment experience. It’s the world’s greatest dueling piano show, and so much more. Our piano players, other musicians, and staff aren’t just entertaining guests; our guests become part of the show. Howl at the Moon regularly hosts guests of all ages for a variety of occasions—locals popping in for some dueling pianos, happy hour revelers, bachelorette party-goers traveling business people, conventioneers, and more. If you’re looking for a great time, Howl at the Moon is your spot.”

I was lucky enough to have my Bachelorette Party at Howl at the Moon and it was beyond Fun!

PLEASE come and join us for a few songs and a few drinks!!!!

Christmas Merchandise At Walt Disney World

Christmas Merchandise has started to arrive at Walt Disney World, and it is cuter than ever!!!

This year’s merchandise is filled with a lot of shimmer and whimsy!

I really like how they have more than just one standard look and feel to the Christmas merchandise this year.

I hope that you enjoy this quick peek at some of our favorite pieces from the Christmas merchandise at Walt Disney World!

Disney always makes sure to have some Fun ears for the Holidays!

Patriotism in the Parks – Hall of Presidents

Presidential Seal at the Hall of Presidents — Presidential Seal

In honor of Election Day this week, I thought it all together fitting and proper to continue the Patriotism in the Parks series with a look at the Hall of Presidents in the Magic Kingdom. This attraction focuses on the Presidents of the United States of America and the path to freedom through the American Revolutionary War. There is a ongoing joke that each election year the Imagineers at Walt Disney World secretly hope the incumbent wins so they don’t have to change the attraction to add a new president. I’d like to take a closer look at this classic Magic Kingdom attraction to highlight some features. If you are interested in my previous posts in the Patriotism in the Parks series you can read about Memorial Day and Flag Day.

Here is a video from the Disney Parks YouTube channel that talks about some of the technology and additions in the latest incarnation of the Hall of Presidents:

httpv://youtu.be/T1J4Wachgcw

This Magic Kingdom opening day attraction has been a favorite of mine for years. I love being able to sit and watch the story of our founding fathers in air conditioned comfort for a nice break of just over twenty minutes or so. My friends even tease me occasionally (every time) about reciting the Gettysburg Address along with Abraham Lincoln during the show. I blame my 9th grade English teacher Mr. Mullen for making us memorize and recite it in front of the class that year. Amongst our friends we also have a tradition of thanking President Millard Fillmore. Recently, I was engaged in an interesting conversation with the dead president via twitter. It was quite amusing! Apparently there is a bot that scans twitter for the name “Millard Fillmore” and tweets at people who mention him.

The show was inspired by the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln attraction that debuted at the 1964-65 World’s Fair in New York City. The attraction then was installed at Disneyland in 1965. Later, changes were made and Lincoln was removed, but he has been back on Main Street U.S.A. since 2009. I was able to see this show for the first time a few months ago on my Disneyland trip, which you can read about here, and it was very interesting seeing elements lifted from both the Magic Kingdom’s Hall of Presidents and the American Adventure at Epcot.

Hall of Presidents features audio-animatronics of each of our 43 presidents as well as a film narrated by Academy Award winning actor Morgan Freeman. The film begins shortly after the American Revolution around the time of the Constitution in 1789 and goes up through present day. In between, much ground is covered from the two plus centuries of American history. Most prominently featured are segments about George Washington, Andrew Jackson, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy and Barack Obama.

Washington Crossing the Delaware in the Hall of Presidents — Washington Crossing the Delaware

George Washington in the Hall of Presidents — George Washington

Andrew Jackson at the Red Eagle Tavern in the Hall of Presidents — Andrew Jackson at the Red Eagle Tavern

Lincoln - Douglas Debates in the Hall of Presidents — Lincoln – Douglas Debates

Abraham Lincoln in the Hall of Presidents — Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln on the brink of Civil War in the Hall of Presidents — Abraham Lincoln on the brink of Civil War

Mr. Lincoln delivering the Gettysburg Address in the Hall of Presidents — Mr. Lincoln delivering the Gettysburg Address

Moving into the Industrial Era in the Hall of Presidents — Moving into the Industrial Era

Teddy Roosevelt in the Hall of Presidents — Teddy Roosevelt

FDR faces the Great Depression in the Hall of Presidents — FDR faces the Great Depression

JFK and the Washington Monument in the Hall of Presidents — JFK and the Washington Monument

Ronald Reagan addresses the Challenger Disaster in the Hall of Presidents — Ronald Reagan addresses the Challenger Disaster

George W. Bush post 9-11 in the Hall of Presidents — George W. Bush post 9-11

The Presidents of the United States of America in the Hall of Presidents — The Presidents of the United States of America

George Washington center stage in the Hall of Presidents — George Washington center stage

George Washington speaks in the Hall of Presidents — George Washington speaks

Barack Obama speaks in the Hall of Presidents — Barack Obama speaks

I love how this attraction highlights some of our greatest moments in history through montage in the video, but also doesn’t gloss over darker times in our past like the Civil War and Great Depression. This is a great snapshot of American history and always imbues me with a sense of pride and appreciation for what we have achieved in this great nation of ours. Do you have a favorite part of the Hall of Presidents? Do you have a favorite President? Have you cheered for Millard Fillmore? If not, what are you waiting for?

Christmas Town Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Tickets Available Now!

CHRISTMAS TOWN BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

Santa is ready to celebrate the Season with Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, starting November 30th!

Christmas Town Busch Gardens Tampa Bay launched the web site for the park’s biggest Christmas celebration ever. Tickets are now available online for Christmas Town, an event that will transform the park into a nighttime holiday wonderland of wintery surprises and all things Christmas, filling guests’ senses with seasonal sights, sounds and flavors, and creating a beautiful new tradition for Tampa’s families. The event takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, Nov. 30 through Dec. 23.

On the Christmas Town web site, guests can also find information about the event’s all-new attractions, special entertainment, live music, festive treats and holiday shopping and display of thousands of twinkling lights.

Christmas Town Busch Gardens Tampa Bay ticket information:

Children’s tickets purchased in advance online are $9.99 (ages 3 to 9)
General admission for Christmas Town is $39.99 plus tax
Busch Gardens will share a special promo code for tickets at $29.99 on the park’s Facebook page
Busch Gardens annual pass members will receive the best discounts, and special offers are available for guests wishing to upgrade their paid daily admission to Busch Gardens and through promotional codes from select retail partners
Christmas Town is a separate-ticketed night event, and regular daytime admission is not required or included

Christmas Town will also offer some magnificent new opportunities for groups looking to book a unique holiday party. For details, call the Busch Gardens Events Team at (813) 987-5523.

For the latest park news, “Like” Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook.

Wordless Wednesday – They All Can’t Be Millard Fillmore

Wordless Wednesday – They All Can’t Be Millard Fillmore – On the Go in MCO

Wreck It Ralph Merchandise at Walt Disney World

Wreck It Ralph Merchandise has arrived at Walt Disney World!!!

The Wreck It Ralph merchandise totally captures the spirit (and sometimes smell) of the movie! The pieces are super fun, with great details and imagination. I love it when the merchandise stays so true to a movie, especially when its a movie that I absolutely loved!!!

From Walt Disney Animation Studios and Emmy®-winning director Rich Moore comes “Wreck-It Ralph,” a hilarious, arcade-game-hopping adventure. For decades, Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) has been overshadowed by Fix-It Felix, Jr. (voice of Jack McBrayer), the good-guy star of their game who always gets to save the day. Tired of playing the role of a bad guy, Ralph takes matters into his own massive hands and sets off on a journey across the arcade through multiple generations of video games to prove he’s got what it takes to be a hero.

On his quest, Ralph meets tough-as-nails Sergeant Calhoun (voice of Jane Lynch) from the first-person action game Hero’s Duty, and feisty misfit Vanellope von Schweetz (voice of Sarah Silverman) from the candy-coated cart-racing game Sugar Rush, who may just be his first real friend. But everything changes when a deadly enemy is unleashed, threatening the entire arcade and Vanellope herself.Ralph finally gets his chance to save the day—but can he do it in time?

Wreck It Ralph Merchandise — Arcade Cards now feature the main man himself!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6m6RC9Nsl-g&feature=share&list=PLhc_IRGaIEKDhZu85PSCBs_tYS8OmGw2Y

Wreck it Ralph was such an amazing movie, and the Wreck It Ralph merchandise is great!

MATT LUZUNARIS TO LEAVE ORLANDO CITY

MATT LUZUNARIS TO LEAVE ORLANDO CITY

Striker leaves Orlando with nine goals in 18 regular season matches

Orlando City confirmed they will not be picking up the second year option on Matt Luzunaris’ contract, giving Matt the opportunity to explore his opportunities overseas.

“We’re excited that Matt has an opportunity to go out and test his playing ability in Europe,” said Head Coach, Adrian Heath. “Matt played a big part in our success last year and we wish him nothing but the very best as he continues his journey in professional soccer.”

Luzunaris played in 18 regular season matches for Orlando in 2012, scoring nine goals while notching two assists for the Lions in 934 minutes played. The Margate, Fla., native originally joined Orlando while on loan with the San Jose Earthquakes in 2011.

The forward has also made a significant impact off the pitch, helping his late-fiancé Austen Everett start the Austen Everett Foundation- a non-profit charity that strives to empower children during their fight with cancer. More information can be found at www.austeneverettfoundation.org.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is the premier professional soccer sports franchise in the state of Florida. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

TrenD Report – November 5, 2012

TrenD Report – November 5, 2012

Why yes, it is that time again! Time to go window shopping at my favorite store in Walt Disney World…TrenD!

While in past reports I have been really excited about the purses, you could easily say that I have a Disney Purse Problem, this time I am really excited about the clothing!

In the past TrenD clothes have been really about the trends and fads, but they seem to be coming to more of a middle ground in that the designs that they are featuring are more stylish than trendy which is a nice change for some of the pieces.

And you can find a large majority of these pieces scattered around Walt Disney World, I always find in my TrenD Reports its always fun to see how they mix the pieces from the park into more normal brands of clothing.

Also, I found that they are starting to make more Disney-fied skirts and dresses which is a great addition to the shirts that they offer!

I really hope that you enjoy this trip around TrenD with me in this TrenD Report!