April 2023 Archives - On the Go in MCO

TRON Lightcycle / Run – Know Before You Go

The much anticipated TRON Lightcycle / Run will open in less than a month at the Magic Kingdom, but before you race into the Grid, there are a few things to know!

@onthegoinmco
Let’s ride the newest @disneyparks coaster…TRON Lightcycle/Run at the Magic Kingdom! #TRON #tronlightcyclerun #lightcycle #disneyworld #disney #wdw #magickingdom #pov #disneypov #disneyparks #tronlegacy #teamblue
♬ Derezzed (from “TRON: Legacy”) – From “TRON: Legacy”/Score – Daft Punk

TRON Lightcycle / Run – Know Before You Go

The Story Behind the Ride

Disney made filmmaking history when it released TRON in 1982. The movie was the first production to mix live action with computer-generated visuals and backlit animation.

After the film’s release, its iconic visuals and story continued to inspire video games, comic books, animated series, and the 2010 sequel TRON: Legacy.

In 2023, we have the opportunity to join the story again!

Following the “TRON: Legacy” events, we find that Sam Flynn is now opening new gateways into this digital realm at specific locations worldwide!

The first portal he created is at Shanghai Disneyland with the original TRON Lightcycle Power Run, which opened in 2016 with the park, and now Magic Kingdom guests will get their turn through this second gateway on TRON Lightcyle / Run.

Ride Experience

TRON Lightcycle / Run invites riders over 48 inches tall to climb aboard their very own Lightcycle, launching them at almost 60 miles per hour along over 3,000 ft of track to race against the Grid’s most menacing Programs through 8 Energy Gates.

The attraction’s seating is another first-of-its-kind at the Magic Kingdom.

Riders will enter motorcycle-inspired seating with a unique restraint system, similar to Avatar Flight of Passage, for a thrilling race through the digital frontier.

Team Blue racers looking for more accessible seating should let a Cast Member know their racing requirements, as the back row of each attraction train features traditional seating options with a lap bar.

Virtual Queue for Team Blue

TRON Lightcycle / Run uses a virtual queue instead of a traditional standby queue, allowing guests to experience the attraction later in the day and enjoy all that Magic Kingdom Park offers while they wait to enter the Grid.

Guests with a valid ticket or pass and a theme park reservation for Magic Kingdom Park on the same date can request to join the virtual queue twice daily via the My Disney Experience.

The daily distribution times are subject to change or cancellation as availability allows, and Park Hopper visitors may not be able to join the virtual queue in a park where they do not have a Disney Park Pass reservation.

For the best chance of successfully obtaining a spot in the Virtual Queue, select one member of your party who must be connected to everyone looking to race on the My Disney Experience App to access the virtual queue to check for an available boarding group for everyone in your party.

If multiple people in your party try to join the virtual queue simultaneously, that may inhibit your ability to join a group.

Individual Lightning Lane

Guests who do not obtain a virtual queue spot may also have the option to purchase individual – or à la carte – Lightning Lane entry using the My Disney Experience app.

On the day of their visit, Team Blue recruits with a valid admission and a park reservation on the same date may visit the Disney Genie Service Tip Board in the My Disney Experience app to choose an arrival window and make their purchase before joining the race against Team Orange.

Lightning Lane entry purchases may vary in price by day, are limited in availability, are subject to change or closure, and are not guaranteed.

@onthegoinmco
Let’s head Back into the Grid to check out the TRON Lightcycle/Run lockers! #tronlightcyclerun #troncoaster #tron #lightcycle #waltdisneyworld #disneyworld #magickingdom #wdw #disneyparks #disneytok
♬ Good Vibes (Instrumental) – Ellen Once Again

Storing Gear During the Race

New to TRON Lightcycle / Run is a double-sided and digitized locker system to store bags and loose items while you race your Lightcycle.

Inside the attraction queue, these complimentary lockers pair directly with MagicBand, MagicBand+, or ticket media which can easily lock and reopen with a quick tap.

Racers without a MagicBand or other ticket media (such as a card) will need to speak with a Cast Member in the locker area to receive a card to assign their locker.

All items must be placed either in a locker before you board your Lightcycle or in a small compartment located on the attraction vehicle that can hold items such as cellphones, glasses, or wallets.

There are tap points to display locker numbers, and Cast Members are readily available for help in the locker area.

Mid-Race Photos

Team Blue Members can relive their race through this dark, computerized world with an onboard photo and video automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account.

Racers can wear a MagicBand or MagicBand+ linked to their My Disney Experience account or an eligible mobile device.

For mobile devices, enable Bluetooth for the My Disney Experience app before riding, ensure you’ve logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day, and keep the device out of low power mode. Also, make sure to bring your mobile device boards your Lightcycle with you and safely store them in the small Lightcycle compartment to use this method.

@onthegoinmco
#TRONHYPE #TRONHYPE #TRONHYPE #troncoaster #tronlightcyclerun #tron #magickingdom #wdw #disneyworld #disney #intothegrid #teamblue
♬ original sound – addalydiaz

See you in the Grid, Team Blue. End of line.

2023 Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food and Wine Festival

Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival will offer guests a one-of-a-kind flavor and rhythm experience from various world latitudes.

Beginning today, the highly anticipated event will provide guests with an elevated culinary experience and the opportunity to enjoy live musical performances from some of the most popular artists in the entertainment industry.

The event runs through May 21, featuring a total of 20 food and beverage cabins for guests to sip and savor and 23 live concerts.

The Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival is included with park admission.

All-New Globally Inspired Culinary Offerings

Inspired by various cultures, guests will have the opportunity to explore more than 20 globally inspired culinary offerings.

For the perfect pairing, the choices range from 39 wines from regions near and far, 14 craft, domestic and international beers, bourbon tastings, and more.

From flavors of Asia to Busch Gardens’ own Xcursions store serving house-made coaster-themed sweets, there is a dish for every palate at the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival.

Guests can indulge in the following delights:

NEW! – Trek Through Africa Cabin – African Vegetable Curry & Naan Bread (Vegetarian)
NEW! – Twisted Egg Rolls Cabin – Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll with Ranch Dipping Sauce
NEW! – Moroccan Market Cabin – Berbere Spiced Chicken Batbout
NEW! – Greek Isles Cabin – Lamb Lollipop with Mint Demi-Glaze (Gluten Free)
NEW! – European Delight Cabin – Mushroom Ravioli with Truffle Cream Sauce (Vegetarian)
·NEW! – Asian Inspired Cabin – Spicy Pork Belly with Mandarin Orange Soy Glaze (Gluten Free)
NEW! – Springs Taproom Bar & Lounge – Traditional Tuna Poke
NEW! – Cocktails & Beer Cabin – Spicy Watermelon Margarita Craft Cocktail
NEW! – Xcursions Gift Shop – Signature Coaster Cupcake 4-Pack
NEW! – Latin Twist Cabin – Piña Colada Trifle

Headlining Concerts for Every Taste

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is dishing up a variety of headlining concerts for every taste as part of the Food and Wine Festival.

Twenty-three headlining acts spanning pop, rock, country, and more genres will take the Festival Field Stage for 11 weekends jam-packed with rhythm and flavor.

Kansas – March 11	+LIVE+ – April 8
Maddie & Tae – March 12	The Fab Four – April 9
SWV – March 18	38 Special – April 15
Dustin Lynch – March 19	Mitchell Tenpenny – April 16
Rodney Atkins – March 25	Air Supply – April 22
Flo Rida – March 26	Gabby Barrett – April 23
Jeremy Camp – April 1	Hoobastank – April 29
*Coming Soon!* – April 2	WALK THE MOON – April 30

All headlining concert performances are included with park admission and will take place on the Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival main stage located past the cabins on the Festival Pathway.

To view showtimes and purchase reserved seating and VIP packages, guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com.

A Celebración with Latin Flare for Cinco de Mayo and Viva la Música

The Food and Wine Festival transforms into a melting pot of Latin cultures featuring world-renowned iconic dishes and live música from award-winning Latin artists.

For this Latin fiesta, guests can expect a complete transformation of the festival area and enjoy authentic Latin gastronomy and entertainment.

Cinco de Mayo and Viva La Música celebrate the diverse Latino heritage and culture with the authentic flavors and rhythms of Mexican, South American, and Caribbean countries in the mix.

Cinco de Mayo and Viva la Música occur every Saturday and Sunday from May 5 – 21 and are included with daily park admission, Annual Pass, or Fun Cards.

The full Latin artists’ lineup for 2023 is:

The Como La Flor Band – May 5
Celia Vive – A Tribute to Celia Cruz – May 6
El Gran Combo – May 7
Toño Rosario – May 13
Grupo Niche – May 14
Elvis Crespo – May 20
Luisito Ayala y la Puerto Rican Power – May 21

Sampler Lanyards Provide the Best Way to Experience the Food and Wine Festival

The best way to experience the Food & Wine Festival flavors at Busch Gardens is with a Food and Wine Sampler Lanyard.

Starting at $70 and redeemable at the numerous cabins located throughout the park, Sampler Lanyards offer the best value for guests and will be available in quantities of 10 and 15.

An exclusive 18-item sampler for the same price as a 15-item is available for all Pass Members. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food and Wine Festival 2020

Add More Flavor to Your Experience with a VIP Seating Package

Busch Gardens has the perfect ingredients for an exclusive experience at the Food and Wine Festival with VIP Seating packages.

Guests can get up close to their favorite artists, enjoy one complimentary beverage and gain access to a private VIP bar.

The package includes one entry per reservation to the VIP reserved seating area on the concert field and one beverage at the VIP Bar.

Reservation is only valid for the date and time purchased.

Annual Passes and Fun Cards Offer the Best Way to Play

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy a year of thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events.

Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, options provide guests unlimited year-round admission and unbeatable benefits, including free parking, in-park discounts, and monthly rewards starting at $15.

Additionally, those interested in paying for a day and playing all year can use the current buy-one-get-one Fun Card offer.

For a limited time, guests purchasing a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Fun Card will receive an Adventure Island Fun Card for FREE.

Guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com to purchase tickets and learn more about the Annual Pass program’s benefits and monthly rewards

Morse Museum Celebrates Spring

A new exhibition, Friday nights with live music, a film series, and more signal the arrival of spring at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.

Lamps and Lighting—Tiffany and His Contemporaries, the newest exhibit, showcases Tiffany’s innovative lighting alongside recent acquisitions which illustrate the creative process of lamp production.

For eight consecutive Fridays from March 10 through April 28, the Morse presents Spring Friday Nights with free admission starting at 4 p.m. and various musicians enhancing the gallery experience from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Orlando Violin Music will begin the series with cello, viola, and violin on March 10.

Celebratory events offer free admission, including the entire Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival weekend, Friday, March 17, through Sunday, March 19. Beautiful Music Woodwind Ensemble will play live music in the galleries on Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Additionally, as is tradition, free admission is offered on Easter weekend, Friday, April 7, through Sunday, April 9. Classical guitarist Joshua Englert will play live in the galleries on Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The two remaining talks in the free Wednesday Lecture Series on historic preservation take place on March 22, with Lisa A. Neely sharing her knowledge as King Ranch, Inc.’s archivist, and on April 19, with Met curator Alice Cooney Frelinghuysen discussing stained-glass treasures hidden at the historic Woodlawn Cemetery in New York City.

April kicks off the free Spring Friday Film Series on Vincent van Gogh (1853–90). Viewers will learn about the life of Van Gogh, beginning in his hometown of Zundert, Netherlands, and tracing his path to becoming an artist.

Spring at the Morse Museum

The complete list of the Morse’s free spring programs and events is as follows:

TUESDAY, MARCH 7
Exhibition Opens. 9:30 a.m. Lamps and Lighting—Tiffany and His Contemporaries.
A new exhibition of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s lamps alongside recent acquisitions illustrating works by artists and artisans in the creative process of lamp production.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10
Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
Orlando Violin Music (cello, viola, and violin).

FRIDAY, MARCH 17

Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
Beautiful Music Woodwind Ensemble (cello, clarinet, flugelhorn, flute, and oboe).

FRIDAY, MARCH 17–SUNDAY, MARCH 19
Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival Celebration. Friday, 9:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.–4 p.m.

Free admission throughout the weekend.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22
Lecture. 2:30 p.m. (doors open at 2 p.m.) “Henrietta King’s 100+ Year Legacy: The Main House.”

Lisa A. Neely, archivist of King Ranch, Inc. will discuss the legacy of the Texas ranch’s Main House. Jeannette G. and Hugh F. McKean Pavilion, 161 West Canton Avenue (just behind the Museum). Free.

FRIDAY, MARCH 24
Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Celtic Crossings Harp Trio (Celtic harp, flute, and violin).

FRIDAY, MARCH 31

Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
Beautiful Music Romance Duo (flute and guitar).

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

Friday Film Series. Noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Vincent: The Full Story—Episode 1 (48 minutes).

Learn about the life of Vincent van Gogh (1853–90). The series begins in Van Gogh’s hometown of Zundert, Netherlands, traces his path to becoming an artist, and describes his evolution as an artist. Jeannette G. and Hugh F. McKean Pavilion, 161 West Canton Avenue (just behind the Museum). Free.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
Joshua Englert (classical guitar).

FRIDAY, APRIL 7–SUNDAY, APRIL 9
Easter Weekend Celebration. Friday, 9:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.–4 p.m.

Free admission throughout the weekend.

FRIDAY, APRIL 14

Friday Film Series. Noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Vincent: The Full Story—Episode 2 (49 minutes).

FRIDAY, APRIL 14
Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Orlando Violin Music (violins).

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19
Lecture. 2:30 p.m. (doors open at 2 p.m.) “Hidden Treasures: Tiffany Windows at Woodlawn Cemetery.”

Alice Cooney Frelinghuysen, Anthony W. and Lulu C. Wang Curator of American Decorative Arts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, will discuss stained-glass treasures hidden at the historic Woodlawn Cemetery in New York City. Jeannette G. and Hugh F. McKean Pavilion, 161 West Canton Avenue (just behind the Museum). Free.

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

Friday Film Series. Noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Vincent: The Full Story—Episode 3 (49 minutes).

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Victoria Schultz Harp Trio (cello, flute, and harp).

FRIDAY, APRIL 28

Live Music. 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Beautiful Music Paint It Black Quartet (cello, flute, viola, and violin).

The Morse Museum hours from November through April are 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday, and l p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Regular admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $1 for students, and free for children under 12. All visitors receive free admission from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays, November through April.

For more information, please visit morsemuseum.org.

Once Upon a Spring at the Gaylord Palms Resort

Once Upon a Spring Gaylord Palms Resort 2022

Once Upon a Spring, the annual celebration at the Gaylord Palms Resort has fun for the entire family blooming around every corner from March 3 to May 14, 2023.

The event features plenty of oversized pastel eggs, new Adventure Kids’ Clubhouse activities, an Easter Day Buffet, a pirate escape room, a themed scavenger hunt, and everyone’s favorite holiday hares, Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny.

Once Upon a Spring Event Highlights

Eggspress Yourself

Larger-than-life Easter eggs and thousands of spring blossoms highlight the Eggspression Garden, a themed walk-through experience in the atrium. A giant Easter egg archway greets guests on the self-guided trail with plenty of springtime photo spots for that perfect picture to share with friends and family.

Bountiful Easter Buffet Dining Experience

On Easter Sunday, April 9, from noon-6 p.m., Villa de Flora will host its annual Easter Buffet. The plentiful buffet features more than ten stations, including antipasto, house-made bread, gourmet salads, chilled favorites on ice like jumbo shrimp cocktail and cold-water oysters, a chef-crafted pasta bar, soups, short ribs, citrus-brined chicken, a seafood paella station, a “knife-to-plate” station with taste-tempting dishes like leg of lamb, prime rib and smoked ham, a children’s dining station and a delicious selection of signature desserts. The cost is $75 per adult and $35 per child ages 4-12, plus tax and gratuity. To check availability and make reservations, guests should visit GaylordPalmsDining.com.

Meet Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny

Mr. Easter Bunny will meet guests inside the resort each Saturday from March 4-April 8 at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. On Easter Sunday, April 9, the Easter Bunny will pose for photos at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. Mrs. Easter Bunny will also make special appearances on April 9, meeting guests at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m.

Kids Get Crafty in an All-New Adventure Kids’ Clubhouse

Younger guests and their families can visit the all-new Adventure Kids’ Clubhouse, where they explore the world around them and enjoy activities with the help of a special guest. This season’s special guest is The Gardener, who will help kids create the perfect springtime craft – custom-painted flowerpots.

Get Hopping with a Springtime Scavenger Hunt

Young guests and families can embark on a springtime search throughout the resort in the Spring-A-Long Scavenger Hunt. Exploring a 4.5-acre garden of spring flowers and seasonal pastel colors, families work together and follow clues in their activity booklet during the at-your-own-pace activity. Guests who complete the quest receive a springtime surprise to help celebrate their puzzle-solving prowess.

Pirate and Princess Weekends 2021 Gaylord Palms Resort

Find Hidden Treasure in a Pirate Escape Room Experience

Ahoy! Guests are invited to set sail on a springtime adventure in the Pirate’s Treasure Escape Room. Captain Hornswaggle’s wife, Emerald, has recruited guests to her crew to pillage the Captain’s quarters and claim his most valuable treasure. A series of puzzles, games, and riddles reveals the treasure’s secret location, challenging guests to solve them before the Captain returns and makes them walk the plank.

Watch Dive-In Movies in a Splashy Cinema

Each Saturday during the celebration, overnight guests are invited to take in a Dive-In Movie on the large video wall near the zero-entry pool in Cypress Springs Water Park. Guests can enjoy the silver screen selections from the swimming pool or from seating around the pool.

More Adventure Kids Fun in a Live Stage Show

Younger explorers are invited to join Seth the Sea Turtle, Ava the Alligator, and Adventure Kid Sophie on Saturdays inside the Gaylord Palms atrium to discover the wonders of the spring season in an interactive, live show. These springtime shows occur at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.

Springtime Lights Come Alive in ‘Bloom’

When night falls at Gaylord Palms, a salute to springtime takes place in the skies above the atrium on the resort’s animated light curtains in the “Bloom” light show. Festive flowers, pastel Easter eggs, and bouncing bunnies come to life in the colorful display. Guests in select main atrium-view rooms can watch the show from the comfort of their balcony.

Packages and Tickets

Gaylord Palms is offering “Welcome to More” Spring packages that include guest rooms and event tickets. For tickets or room packages for Once Upon a Spring, guests may visit GaylordPalms.com.

2023 Garden Rocks Concert Series Lineup

Get ready to rock with the Garden Rocks Concert Series – returning to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival this March!

There’s nothing like ending your day at EPCOT with a concert that, BTW, is included with your theme park admission featuring internationally recognized artists performing Friday-Monday and showcasing local Orlando talent on Tuesday-Thursday at the America Gardens Theater!

The Garden Rocks Concert Series lineup is filled with talent from returning favorites like The Pointer Sisters, Simple Plan, and the Plain White T’s, along with fresh talent like legacy guitarist AJ Croce and GRAMMY award-winning Switchfoot.

Garden Rocks Concert Series Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2020

2023 Garden Rocks Concert Series Lineup

March 3-4 – Journey former lead vocalist STEVE AUGERI
March 5-6 – Daughtry
March 10-11 – Tommy DeCarlo
March 12-13 – Smash Mouth
March 17-18 – Mike DelGuidice
March 19-20 – Blue Oyster Cult – NEW
March 24-25 – Berlin
March 26-27 – The Pointer Sisters
March 31 – Luis Figueroa – NEW
April 1-2 – Piso 21 – NEW
April 3 – TBD
April 7-8 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
April 9-10 – Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles
April 16-17 – Switchfoot – NEW
April 21-22 – A Flock of Seagulls
April 23-24 – Jo Dee Messina
April 28-29 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett, The Voice Of Player
April 30, May 1 – Kool and the Gang
May 5-8 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 12-15 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
May 19-20 – A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce – NEW
May 21-22 – Casting Crowns – NEW
May 26-27 – Jason Scheff, longtime lead singer of Chicago – NEW
May 28-29 – Rick Springfield
June 2-5 – Plain White T’s
June 9-10 – The Spinners
June 11-12 – The Commodores
June 16-17 – Vertical Horizon
June 18-19 – Tony Orlando
June 23-26 – Simple Plan
June 30, July 1 – Living Colour
July 2-3 – Wang Chung

Beginning February 9, guests can secure their spot for these rockin’ performances with a Garden Rocks Dining Package. Check out FreshEPCOT.com.

Just a reminder, to experience EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, guests must have both valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date.

Universal Mardi Gras 2023: Menu Highlights

Universal Mardi Gras 2023 is a global celebration with food offerings representing 17 different countries across 70 unique menu items.

With so much to choose from, let’s look at a roundup of some of the top bites you can enjoy at Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval!

Universal Mardi Gras 2023: Top Bites

Mofongo Trio Flight

Inspired by Carnaval Ponceño in Puerto Rico, this iconic dish is presented in three delectable servings.

The base for each is a traditional mix of smashed green plantains, bacon, garlic, and chicharrones and topped three different ways: traditional, shrimp criolla, and crispy chicken chicharron with mayo ketchup drizzle.

Pav Bhaji – Vegetarian

Pav Bhaji with mardi gras mask behind Universal Mardi Gras 2023

Pav Bhaji, pronounced pav baa-jee, is a popular Indian street food that is a thick vegetable stew with a medley of veggies and spices, including potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, ginger, and garlic with a buttery-toasted Hawaiian roll on the side.

Baja Shrimp Ceviche Tostada

The Baja Shrimp Ceviche Tostada is a light and refreshing Mexican dish that features citrus-blend marinated shrimp topped with avocado crema, chopped jalapeño (not spicy), cotija cheese, shaved red onion, and micro cilantro on a crispy blue tortilla.

Dirty Cauliflower Rice – Vegan

A vegan twist on the traditional New Orleans staple, this comfort food is a blend of cauliflower rice, black-eyed peas, meatless sausage crumbles, the holy trinity mix of celery, onions, green bell peppers, and authentic Cajun spices.

Rod Polse

The Rod Polse is a Danish red, skin-on hot dog is topped with curry remoulade, pickled cucumber, crispy onions, and fresh dill and served on a toasted top-split bun.

Indonesian Purple Sticky Rice Pudding – Vegan

Indonesian Purple Rice with mango and coconut Mardi Gras 2023 Universal Mardi Gras 2023

The Indonesian Purple Sticky Rice Pudding, a.k.a. Bubur Ketan Hitam, is a vegan dish made with purple long-grain rice, sweetened condensed coconut milk, diced mango, and shaved coconut.

Vegan Churros

When creating new menu items, the chefs at Universal Orlando Resort find inspiration everywhere, including suggestions from Passholders, guests and Team Members.

The vegan churros are a direct result of listening to guests’ dietary needs and desire to enjoy this sought-after treat.

These pint-sized churros are coated in cinnamon sugar and come with two dipping sauces: chocolate and coconut agave nectar.

Brigadeiros (pronounced bri-ga-DAY-ros)

Trio of Brigadeiros on white dish Mardi Gras 2023

Brigadeiros are small bites of confectionary heaven made with sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter that are then rolled in either hazelnuts, chocolate sprinkles, or Mardi Gras color sprinkles.

Liège Waffle

The Liège Waffle, from Belgium, features a fluffy waffle, fresh strawberries, and clouds of whipped cream.

Even More Places to Sample Mardi Gras Eats

Paella Mardi Gras 2023 Universal Mardi Gras 2023

The Mardi Gras flavors go beyond Universal Studios Florida’s gates, allowing even more guests to experience the International Flavors of Carnaval.

In Universal CityWalk, themed kiosks will feature Tastes of the Mediterranean (Greece and France, and Belgium — the Liège Waffle is fantastic!), Tastes of the Islands, and the Best of New Orleans.

Near the Port of Entry in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, guests can revel in authentic New Orleans cuisine, including shrimp gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and King Cake.

And next door at Universal’s Volcano Bay, Muffuletta Long Board Pizza is on deck.

Sweet Savings

Can’t make up your mind? The Mardi Gras Food & Beverage Card is a great way to enjoy more items for less.

It’s available for purchase at the food kiosks in Universal Studios Florida and can be used at any food and beverage location in all three theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

Premier and Preferred Passholder standard food discounts apply.

2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

The 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival brings bright blossoms, seasonally inspired flavors, and lively entertainment for the entire family to Walt Disney World daily from March 1 through July 5, 2023.

The event is one of the longest flower and garden festivals in the United States. The seasonal plantings change throughout the Festival, offering evolving displays of vibrant hues, textures, shapes, and scents.

With so much to experience during the event throughout the park, here are some of my favorite highlights!

2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

Topiaries

Nearly 100 individual and iconic EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival topiaries crafted by Disney’s amazing horticulture team can be found throughout the park.

While guests to the event will be able to find favorites like Lumiere and Cogsworth topiaries in the France pavilion; Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and Tick Tock Croc in the United Kingdom Pavilion, and of course, Pumbaa and Timon from The Lion King. Several new additions are making their Festival debut.

Near the EPCOT main entrance, topiaries of Mirabel, Antonio, Isabela, and Luisa from Disney’s “Encanto” will make a grand appearance to welcome park guests.

In The American Adventure pavilion, Dreams really do come true as a new Princess Tiana topiary joins the pavilion’s lively decor.

And finally, new topiaries of the Seven Dwarfs will accompany Snow White near the Germany pavilion in World Showcase.

Interactive Outdoor Spaces for the Entire Family

Fun for the entire family spills out into every nook and cranny of the park during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, with interactive outdoor spaces around every corner.

Get your nose ready to experience one of my favorite recent additions, Blossoms of Fragrance, Presented by Scentsy, where guests are encouraged to slow down and enjoy the sights and scents of spring. Surrounded by vibrant butterfly topiaries, “guests can follow their noses to six scent stations – floral, fruity, citrus, spice, woods, and fresh – to form lasting memories with the help of unforgettable aromas.”

Little Botanists can also enjoy an assortment of playscapes and trails lined with activities spotlighting eco-friendly fun under the sun.

The perennial favorite Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is returning once again! This affordable scavenger hunt for kids of all ages takes explorers throughout the park looking for their favorite bee, Spike, for a special prize. Purchase a map and stickers at select merchandise locations while supplies last!

Outdoor Kitchens

During the Festival, tasty sips and bites inspired by spring’s bounty are showcased at over 15 Outdoor Kitchens.

Make sure to pick up an Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Passport at either park entrance to find out more about the flavors you can savor and how to participate in the Garden Graze, a food stroll featuring delicious dishes from various Outdoor Kitchens that, once completed, result in a festival-exclusive treat.

I also am excited because the Citrus Blossom, one of my favorite kitchens, has a new location in the Odyssey!

When planning your culinary adventure, please remember that the Festival Outdoor Kitchens are open daily from 11:00 am to park close unless otherwise noted.

Groovy Garden Rocks Concerts

Every night live musical performances rock the America Gardens Theatre.

Included with your theme park admission, these concerts feature internationally and locally recognized artists.

Want to take your concert experience to eleven? The Garden Rocks Dining Package, available for Friday through Monday concerts, includes a leisurely meal at select EPCOT restaurants and guaranteed seating at one of the performances later that same day.

To see pricing, the full lineup of artists, performance dates, and to make a dining package reservation, visit FreshEPCOT.com.

Festival Souvenirs

If you want to commemorate your visit to the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, a variety of event merchandise can be found at retail locations across EPCOT, and select items will also be available on shopDisney.com.

Like the lifecycle of a butterfly, merchandise offerings will change during the event, with new additional pieces debuting throughout the Festival.

Fan favorites are sure to include ‘70’s inspired Orange Bird merchandise, apparel, headwear, drinkware, and much more.

To experience the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, guests need both a valid park admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date.

For more details on this year’s Festival, guests can visit FreshEPCOT.com.

Seven Seas Food Festival Returns to SeaWorld

The Seven Seas Food Festival is returning to SeaWorld Orlando with ALL-NEW flavors and fun for theme park foodies from February 3 to May 7.

Orlando’s largest theme park food festival will tempt guests with tasty bites from around the world while strolling between award-winning attractions and incredible animal presentations.

2023 The Seven Seas Food Festival

Tastes from Around the World

Foodies and families alike will find more than 200 food and drink offerings inspired by cultures from around the world at international marketplaces scattered throughout the park.

These marketplaces showcase foods from Italy, Ireland, Brazil, Germany, Asia, and beyond.

Some of the ALL-NEW food items guests can taste this year include:

NEW Parmesan Truffle fries: Grana Padano cheese, fresh parsley, winter white truffle oil
NEW Pork Belly Feijoada: pork belly and black bean Brazilian stew, garnished with green onions
NEW Ropa Vieja: 12-hour slow-cooked shredded beef served on top of smashed plantains, garnished with micro cilantro
NEW Classic Reuben: thin-sliced pastrami served on marbled rye bread with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, garnished with a gherkin
NEW Italian Beef Arancini: arancini served on top of San Marzano tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil
NEW Strawberry shortcake a la mode: vanilla ice cream served with yellow cake, topped with strawberry glaze
NEW Jameson Bread Pudding: Jameson-infused bread pudding topped with Jameson anglaise sauce

SeaWorld Orlando Sharks Underwater Grill

In addition to all the incredible cultural and culinary offerings stationed around the park during the Seven Seas Food Festival, there will also be NEW full-service menu items at Sharks Underwater Grill, including:

NEW Lobster and Shrimp Cakes: Caribbean remoulade, salsa verde, and rainbow green salad
NEW Chicken and Shrimp Tagine: a succulent slow-cooked light stew of chicken, shrimp, and vegetables with aromatic Mediterranean spices, jasmine rice
NEW Chocolate Mousse Marquise: chocolate mousse, raspberry coulis, pecans, and edible gold garnish

Food isn’t the only star at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival. Guests can try the ALL-NEW Caribbean Moonshine Tasting booth next to Seafire Grill.

This marketplace will feature the following:

NEW Marmalade Mayhem: Orange 80 Proof Moonshine
NEW Cat 5: Coconut 80-Proof Moonshine
NEW Passionfruit Prohibition: Passionfruit 80 Proof Moonshine
NEW Banana Breeze: Banana 80 Proof Moonshine
NEW PB & C Cannonball: Peanut Butter and Chocolate 80 Proof Moonshine

There are also ALL-NEW refreshing cocktails guests can enjoy while savoring their way around the world at this year’s Seven Seas Food Festival, including:

NEW Island Rum Punch: light, dark, and coconut rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, cranberry
NEW Southern Peach: Fistful bourbon, peach schnapps, peach, Sprite, simple syrup
NEW Frozen Polynesian Summer: pineapple rum, mango, coconut cream, pineapple juice
NEW Aperol Spritz: Aperol and Prosecco
NEW Mediterranean Sangria: red Sangria, red wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, lime
NEW Tokyo Rose: Shimizu-No-Mai Pure Snow sake, Tito’s Vodka, Triple Sec, cranberry
NEW Irish Cold brew Latte: Jameson Cold Brew, coffee, cream, simple syrup

SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival 2021

Guests can also relax with an ice-cold beer at the Seven Seas Food Festival beer garden or at Flamecraft Bar, which will feature several local and regional brews like:

Tupac ShaPorter from Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company
Strawberry Blonde Ambition from Suncreek Brewery
Tag & Release Amber Ale from Sailfish Brewing Company
Florida Sunshine from Crooked Can Brewing Company
Frost Proof from Cigar City Brewing
Florida Orange IPA from 3 Daughters Brewing

Best Way to Savor and Sip

Guests will be able to discover endless combinations of food and drink offerings with a Seven Seas Food Festival Tasting Lanyard.

Guests can embark on their culinary journey with a 10-sample lanyard at $70 or take it up a notch with the fan-favorite 15-sample lanyard for the best savings.

SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members get the VIP treatment and can purchase 18 samples for the price of 15!

SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival 2017 Bayside Stadium Concert — SeaWorld Orlando

Headline Concert Series

SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival is not just about delicious eats and refreshing sips from around the world.

The festival also features an incredible concert series guests will not want to miss.

Concerts will take place every Saturday and Sunday during the festival at Bayside Stadium.

They will feature a taste of Rock, Country, Latin, Hip Hop, R&B, and 90s throwbacks – all included with park admission. This year’s headliners include:

February 4: En Vogue (R&B)
February 5: REO Speedwagon (Rock
February 11: The Commodores (Funk & Soul)
February 18: Collective Soul (Rock)
February 19: Jerry Rivera (Latin)
February 25: Don McLean (Rock)
February 26: Ludacris (Hip Hop)
March 4: Joey Fatone & Friends (Pop)
March 26: Eli Young Band (Country)

… and many more performers to be announced!

For the best seats in the house, Reserved Seating can be purchased online!

Best Way to Play

One of the best ways for guests to experience SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival is with a SeaWorld Orlando 2023 Fun Card, which offers park admission through December 31, 2023, for one low price of $129.99.

Guests who purchase a Fun Card can attend the Seven Seas Food Festival, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, and Cinco de Mayo.

Guests will also be admitted to SeaWorld Orlando for a full calendar year to experience thrilling rides, amazing animal encounters, and energizing entertainment while being part of all the seasonal events happening in 2023.

For even more unbeatable benefits, guests can purchase a SeaWorld Orlando Annual Pass for as low as $14/month + tax with no down payment.

With an Annual Pass, guests will enjoy 12 months of visits with special benefits like exclusive access to “Pipeline: The Surf Coaster” through the “Passport to Thrills” program, free parking, free guest tickets, access to special VIP events, savings on merchandise and more! Some restrictions and blockout dates apply.

Annual Passes and Fun Cards can be purchased at SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2023 Announcements

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 - — Universal Orlando Resort

The countdown to Universal Orlando Mardi Gras is ON, and the resort shared some exciting announcements about the concerts, parade, eats, and special offers!

I cannot wait to go beyond the bayou and let the good times roll from February 4 through April 16, 2023, featuring a dazzling Mardi Gras parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, and, on select nights, live concerts by top names in music – all included with regular theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2023 Announcements

STAR-STUDDED MARDI GRAS CONCERT LINEUP

This year’s concert series will feature eight live performances by popular names in music like GRAMMY-nominated band Goo Goo Dolls, GRAMMY-winning Platinum superstar Maren Morris and GRAMMY-winning artist Sean Paul at the Music Plaza stage – an outdoor concert venue set against the backdrop of the towering Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. See below for the complete concert lineup.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S MARDI GRAS 2023 CONCERTS
Date	Headliner
February 4	Patti LaBelle
February 10	JVKE
February 11	Goo Goo Dolls
February 18	Maren Morris
February 19	WILLOW
February 25	3 Doors Down
March 4	Sean Paul
March 5	Lauren Daigle

NEW “MYTHICAL REALMS OF MARDI GRAS” PARADE THEME
Guests of all ages can dance along with high-energy performers and catch beads by the handful during this year’s spectacular parade, which will showcase a new “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” theme inspired by fantastical creatures like dragons, phoenixes, unicorns, and more – with a Mardi Gras twist.

This year’s imaginative theme will be brought to life within six incredibly detailed and festive parade floats that will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats – such as the iconic, two-story Riverboat and nearly 50-foot-long King Gator.

TASTE THE INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS OF CARNAVAL
The mouthwatering flavors of global Carnaval celebrations from New Orleans to Brazil to Belgium and beyond will come to life as part of an expansive menu featuring more than 50 tasting-sized items for guests to enjoy at this year’s event.

While venturing throughout the parkwide celebration, guests will find kiosks featuring delectable food and beverage inspired by iconic fare from around the world – including the classic Crawfish Boil and deliciously fluffy Beignets from New Orleans, Shrimp Ceviche Tostada from Mexico, a Mofongo Flight inspired by the Carnaval Ponceño in Puerto Rico, Indonesian Black Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and so much more.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Beignets

Plus, for the first time ever, Universal Orlando’s other theme parks are joining the fun by featuring a limited selection of Mardi Gras items, including Gumbo, Jambalaya, King Cake, and more at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and the Muffuletta Long Board Pizza at Universal’s Volcano Bay.

For a limited time, guests can save $10 on purchasing a Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card to experience the savory flavors of Mardi Gras, which allows them to enjoy more for less by paying $65 for a $75 card.

Annual and Seasonal Passholders also receive special savings with the purchase of an exclusive $150 card for only $120. The Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card is available at Mardi Gras food & beverage locations throughout Universal Studios Florida.

Tribute Store - Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2020 - Tribute Store Map

ALL-NEW MARDI GRAS TRIBUTE STORE AND MERCHANDISE
Located within an all-new space in the Hollywood area of Universal Studios Florida, this year’s Mardi Gras Tribute Store invites guests to an international jazz celebration that leads to the traditional alleyways of New Orleans and ultimately into a speakeasy where the Mardi Gras celebration continues.

Within the new store, guests can shop a new selection of Mardi Gras merchandise that ranges from apparel to accessories and collectibles such as keychains, pins, themed glasses, and even some personalized options – allowing them to take a piece of Florida’s Biggest Party home with them.

Guests can also devour tasty treats inspired by this year’s celebration within the new retail location.

Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios Florida Mardi Gras 2020 Food Guide

THE PARTY CONTINUES AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK AND UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S HOTELS
Guests can keep the party going at Universal CityWalk with special Mardi Gras festivities at select venues and food kiosks featuring delicious menu items that offer a taste of the Mediterranean, the Islands, and popular Mardi Gras fare.

Pat O’Brien’s will host a Mardi Gras After Party on select nights from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. that includes live entertainment, exclusive food and drink offerings, and a special Fat Tuesday celebration on February 21 from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. featuring a dueling piano and more.

Reservations for the festivities at Pat O’Brien’s can be made by calling 407-224-3663.

Plus, the Red Coconut Club will transform the Mardi Gras season into the Cursed Coconut Club – more details and dates of operation will be shared soon.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Cauliflower Dirty Rice

The best way to experience Universal’s Mardi Gras is to stay at one of Universal’s eight incredible hotels. Each hotel will have exclusive Mardi Gras offerings such as Cajun Jambalaya Pasta at Trattoria del Porto at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, N’awlins Po’ Boy Sliders at Velvet Bar at Hard Rock Hotel, Crawfish Etouffee at Bar 17 Bistro at Universal’s Aventura Hotel and more. Universal Orlando hotel guests can also enjoy exclusive benefits, including Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation to the theme parks.

INCREDIBLE OFFERS TO GET THE CELEBRATION STARTED
Access to Universal’s Mardi Gras is included with theme park admission. Starting today, Florida Residents can take advantage of a new offer to partake in the festivities that gives them two days of free admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure with the purchase of a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket (valid for use through June 29, 2023; blockout dates apply) – and for just $25 more they can add one day of admission to Universal’s Volcano Bay.

Florida residents and Universal Orlando Passholders looking to stay close to the celebration can save 35% on select rooms at all Universal Orlando hotels during select dates this Mardi Gras season.

U.S. and Canada residents wanting to join the festivities can still save 25% on a 5-Day/5-Night Vacation Package to visit Universal Orlando this spring and experience Mardi Gras (blockout dates apply).

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Celebration 2023

EXCLUSIVE PERKS FOR UNIVERSAL ORLANDO PASSHOLDERS
Universal Orlando Passholders also get access to Universal’s Mardi Gras (blockout dates apply) and receive exclusive perks, including a Mardi Gras themed magnet, the opportunity to reserve a spot to a ride a float, access to a special viewing area to enjoy the Mardi Gras parade and more. Additional details about passholder benefits for this year’s celebration will be shared soon.

For more information about Universal’s Mardi Gras and additional offerings like the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.