March 2021 Archives - On the Go in MCO

On the Go in the Parks: March 26-28, 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino on WDBO tonight at 6:38pm ET to hear about these and other fun things going on around Central Florida!

Spring has sprung in the City Beautiful, and if you are On the Go in the Parks this weekend you will have a ton of great things to choose from!

On the Go in the Parks: March 26-28, 2021

A Taste of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

Wordless Wednesday Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2015 Epcot Walt Disney World

EPCOT will full bloom as the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival fills the park with farm-fresh flavors from around the world until July 5th!

This annual celebration will be slightly different, but beautiful flowers, topiaries with character, fan-favorite entertainment, and family fun can be found around every corner.

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 - — Universal Orlando Resort

Experience an international food fest with cuisine and entertainment inspired by international Carnaval celebrations. Sample the flavors of Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Spain, and other regions including, of course, New Orleans.

Plus enjoy spectacular floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads, and more throughout the theme park.

And now you can let the good times roll even longer as they have extended the celebration through April 11th!!!

Don’t forget that right now the Universal Orlando Resort has AMAZING Florida Resident deals on Annual Passes (3 months free on any two park pass), tickets (Buy a Day, Get 3 free), and resort stays!!!!

Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival 2021

The Seven Seas Food Festival continues at SeaWorld Orlando, and if you are a foodie this is a can’t miss event for you!!!

Bayside Stadium will once again be rocking this weekend with performances from Night Ranger on Saturday, March 27th, and Blue Oyster Cult on Sunday, March 28th.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food and Wine Festival 2021

This spring, flavors are in bloom at Busch Gardens Tampa with the return of the park’s fan-favorite Food & Wine Festival that invites guests to
sample more than 110 tasty treats, including 22 NEW dishes.

Serving guests every weekend until April 25th with limited capacity, this year’s menu features festival favorites and fresh twists on classic cuisines from around the country that pair perfectly with more than 80 wines, brews, and cocktails.

This Saturday evening you can also see 38 Special in concert and on Sunday Evening Vanilla Ice takes the stage in front of the park’s Festival Field.

Theme Park Deals You Won’t Want to Miss!!!

Universal Orlando Deals

On the Go in the Parks January 2021 Universal Orlando Resort

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that are AWESOME.

The current special offers include:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.
Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.
Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

Don’t forget you can keep up with our adventures as we are On the Go in the Parks and theme park news and tips by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

7 Reasons to #SpringItOn at the Gaylord Palms

Disclosure: I was invited to experience the Once Upon a Spring fun at the Gaylord Palms Resort, however, all opinions and exclamation points are all my own!!!

Until May 16th the Gaylord Palms Resort is inviting guests to Spring It On with extra fun during their Once Upon A Spring celebration, and we were really excited to be invited out to check out the family-friendly events and activities.

7 Reasons to #SpringItOn at the Gaylord Palms

1. Blossomin’ Bunnies Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger Hunts have become a staple of the special events at the Gaylord Palms resort, and the Blossomin’ Bunnies Scavenger Hunt is my new favorite!

With kid-friendly clues and super cute bunnies to find, the Blossomin’ Bunnies Scavenger hunt takes you throughout the 4.5 acres of indoor gardens for a basketful of fun.

2. Springtime Light Display

When the sun goes down, the St. Augustine Atrium lights up with images of blooming flowers, bunny rabbits scurrying, shooting stars, and a spring-colored kaleidoscope.

What I love about the Springtime Light Display is that they bring an extra touch of magic to the resort.

3. Paint Me a Fairytale Show

Inside the Castillo De San Marcos, the interactive show Paint Me A Fairytale takes guests on an adventure as Mother Goose uses her magic paintbrush to bring the pages of storybook favorites to life, including Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and The Princess and The Pea.

As a special keepsake, guests will take home a custom watercolor paint set and coloring book featuring characters from the show.

The Paint Me A Fairytale show is a really fun way for little ones to experience their bedtime stories!

To allow for social distancing, capacity will be limited, and advance online reservations are required.

4. Resort-Wide Spring Activities

During the Once Upon a Spring fun there is no shortage of activities to participate in around the resort!

Gaylord Palms Once Upon a Spring Easter 2021 Spring it On

Some of our favorites during our stay were the cookie decorating, the animal encounters, the animal encounters with Wild Florida, and of course the Springtime Pool Party!!!

5. Art Bar

Adjacent to the Paint Me A Fairytale in the Castillo de San Marcos is the Art Bar where you can choose from a variety of themed adult and kid-friendly beverages.

The Art Bar is a lot of fun because the drinks are unique and there is a resident ‘Artist-in-residence’ that keeps things lively!

6. Crystal River Rapids

GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Gaylord Palms is home to an AWESOME new not-so-lazy river called Crystal River Rapids that is such a great addition to the Crystal Springs Water Park!

Gaylord Palms Crystal River Rapids Once Upon a Spring Easter 2021

Inspired by spring-fed Florida rivers, Crystal River Rapids takes guests on an exhilarating ride as they twist and turn through speeding currents at three-and-a-half feet per second. As guests race past roaring waterfalls, crumbling limestone walls, and larger-than-life sprinkling leaves, they will encounter thrilling water activations that will immerse them in the nature of Florida. With a state-of-the-art sound system, heated water for year-round enjoyment, and alcoves that allow guests to stop and take in the stunning views of Cypress Springs Water Park, this new action river adventure will allow for endless family-fun.

While I probably did about 30 laps around the Crystal River Rapids, I have to say that it was just as nice to sit in the alcoves and wait for Zoe to zoom by.

7. Commitment to Clean

When the Gaylord Palms Resort reopened in summer 2020, it debuted a variety of protocols and elevated practices in line with their high standards of cleanliness and excellent service that their STARs take VERY seriously.

I am BEYOND excited to say that the Gaylord Palm has sustained their high levels of cleanliness since our stay in July!

To find out more about Once Upon a Spring and how to book your resort stay, visit the Gaylord Palms website.

If you are looking for more pictures from our Spring It On staycation at the Gaylord Palms, check out our @onthegoinmco Instagram highlights!!!

On the Go in the Parks: March 12-14, 2021

Instagram Post - On the Go In the Parks March 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino on WDBO tonight at 6:38pm ET to hear about these and other fun things going on around Central Florida!

Cold weather may be moving back in, but don’t let a little chill stop you from being On the Go in the Parks this weekend!!!

On the Go in the Parks: March 12-14, 2021

A Taste of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

EPCOT will full bloom as the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival fills the park with farm-fresh flavors from around the world from until July 5th!

This annual celebration will be slightly different, but beautiful flowers, topiaries with character, fan-favorite entertainment, and family fun can be found around every corner.

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort

Plus enjoy spectacular floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads, and more throughout the theme park.

And now you can let the good times roll even longer as they have extended the celebration through April 11th!!!

Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando

The Seven Seas Food Festival continues at SeaWorld Orlando, and if you are a foodie this is a can’t miss event for you!!!

Bayside Stadium will once again be rocking this weekend with performances from Vanilla Ice on Saturday, March 13th, and Jeremy Camp on Sunday, March 14th.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food and Wine Festival 2021

This Saturday evening you can also see Parmalee in concert on the park’s Festival Field.

Theme Park Deals You Won’t Want to Miss!!!

Universal Orlando Deals

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

The current special offers include:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.
Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.
Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

Don’t forget you can keep up with our adventures On the Go in MCO and find even more events by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

On the Go in the Parks: March 5-7, 2021

Instagram Post - On the Go In the Parks March 5 to 7 2021

Make sure you tune into Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino on WDBO tonight at 6:38pm ET to hear about these and other fun things going on around Central Florida!

Cold weather may be moving back in, but don’t let a little chill stop you from being On the Go in the Parks this weekend!!!

On the Go in the Parks: March 5-7, 2021

A Taste of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

EPCOT will full bloom as the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival fills the park with farm-fresh flavors from around the world from until July 5th!

This annual celebration will be slightly different, but beautiful flowers, topiaries with character, fan-favorite entertainment, and family fun can be found around every corner.

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort

Plus enjoy spectacular floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads, and more throughout the theme park.

Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando

The Seven Seas Food Festival continues at SeaWorld Orlando, and if you are a foodie this is a can’t miss event for you!!!

Bayside Stadium will once again be rocking this weekend with performances from The Modern Gentlemen on Saturday, March 6th, and Easton Corbin on Sunday, March 7th.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food and Wine Festival 2021

This Saturday evening you can also see Phillip Phillips in concert on the park’s Festival Field.

Theme Park Deals You Won’t Want to Miss!!!

Universal Orlando Deals

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

The current special offers include:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.
Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.
Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

Don’t forget you can keep up with our adventures On the Go in MCO and find even more events by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Spring it On at the Gaylord Palms

The Gaylord Palms Resort is always finding new ways to entertain their guests, and now they are ready to Spring It On from March 12 to May 16 with an itinerary of family-friendly events and activities to welcome the spring season.

As a Spring Break Getaway with Easter events, Once Upon a Spring programming, activities, and an interactive show that brings classic fairy tales to life, and the all-new Crystal River Rapids action river, the resort will provide the perfect springtime retreat.

To celebrate the magic and creativity of the season, the interactive show Paint Me A Fairytale will take guests on an enchanted adventure as Mother Goose uses her magic paintbrush to bring the pages of storybook favorites to life, including Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and The Princess and The Pea. Through each classic story, guests will learn that magic lives within all of us when we treat others with kindness and have courage to tell the truth. As a special keepsake, guests will take home a custom watercolor paint set and coloring book featuring characters from the show. To allow for social distancing, capacity will be limited and advance online reservations are required.

Also coming to this year’s programming is the Eggspression Garden, an imaginative walkthrough experience featuring blossoming tulips, gigantic Easter eggs, a massive chocolate bunny and five additional spring-themed photo opportunities. Plus, colorful craft cocktails and mocktails, whimsical paintings and more will delight guests in the ART Bar.

And, just in time for spring break, guests can experience Crystal River Rapids, the thrilling new action river attraction opening March 1 at Cypress Springs Water Park.

This exhilarating water ride will twist and turn guests through speeding currents at three-and-a-half feet per second as they race past roaring waterfalls, crumbling limestone walls and larger-than-life leaves. Guest can take in the stunning views of Cypress Springs Water Park from the river’s alcove, cabanas, spas or premium pool seating.

And, just in time for spring break, guests can experience Crystal River Rapids, the thrilling new action river attraction opening March 1 at Cypress Springs Water Park. This exhilarating water ride will twist and turn guests through speeding currents at three-and-a-half feet per second as they race past roaring waterfalls, crumbling limestone walls and larger-than-life leaves. Guest can take in the stunning views of Cypress Springs Water Park from the river’s alcove, cabanas, spas or premium pool seating.

Additional Once Upon a Spring Activities:

During the Springtime Pool Party, guests can enjoy fun in the sun with pool games, prizes, sing-a-longs and line dances at Cypress Springs Water Park. The ideal setting for family-fun, Cypress Springs features a brand-new action river attraction, zero-entry family pool, treehouse water play structure with four water slides, Big Cypress tower with an AquaDrop slide and two racing slides, and The Wake Zone Double FlowRider with a surfable, simulated wave.
Guests can explore the resort’s 4.5 acres of indoor gardens with seasonally themed Scavenger Hunts.

Meet the Easter Bunny while enjoying a delicious breakfast in the newly renovated Villa de Flora during the Mr. & Mrs. Easter Bunny Character Breakfast on select dates through April 4. On Easter day, guests can enjoy a specialty brunch at Villa de Flora.
On select dates through April 4, guests can get creative and enjoy a sweet treat by decorating either an Easter egg or bunny cookie in the Cookie Decorating experience. Plus, after decorating, guests can meet the Easter Bunny himself!

Join the resort’s exclusive characters Seth the Sea Turtle, Ava the Alligator and everyone’s favorite Adventure Kid Sophie as they explore the splendor of springtime in the interactive live show Adventure Kids: Sprout into Spring.
High above the indoor gardens, the atrium “skies” will be bright with the Springtime Light Display, as giant LED light curtains vividly display flowers blooming, bunny rabbits scurrying, shooting stars and spring-colored kaleidoscopes.

Enjoy up-close Animal Encounters with critters from Wild Florida’s nearby zoological park and learn more about the Florida eco-system and the animals’ unique personalities.
From the comfort of their guest room, families can enjoy an interactive video on their in-room TV that follows the classic story of Peter Rabbit in Adventure Kids: Bedtime Bunny Tales.

Plus, Relâche Spa is offering a Springtime Renewal special from March 1 – April 30 that allows guests to receive a $25 spa boutique credit and $25 off a future service with the purchase of any 50-minute or longer massage, facial or body treatment.

Once Upon a Spring activities are available on select dates, including March 12-20, 25-27, April 1-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30 and May 1, 7-8 and 14-15, 2021.

In celebration of the season, the resort is offering a special package with rates from $199. The package includes overnight accommodations, a Scavenger Hunt booklet and tickets to the Paint Me A Fairytale interactive show.

For more information, CLICK HERE. Individual tickets for select spring activities are also on sale.

As the safety of its guests and STARS (employees) is of paramount importance, the resort’s spring events and activities have been developed in accordance with Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean” program and with enhanced protocols and social distancing measures. Programming will also operate in consideration with the latest local, state and federal legislation.

Step into spring at Art in Bloom

Step into spring at Art in Bloom: Festival of Fine Arts and Flowers, benefiting the Orlando Museum of Art, March 25-28, 2021, with show hours 10 a.m. -5 p.m., Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This museum-wide event showcases a kaleidoscope of breathtaking fresh floral arrangements, inspired by works from the Orlando Museum of Art’s permanent collection and current exhibitions.

The event will also feature pop-up shops, curated antiques and an outdoor farmer’s market stocked with Central Florida’s freshest blooms.

Presented by the Council of 101, this annual springtime fundraiser advances the many educational programs and exhibits of the Museum.

This carefully planned show has been modified to safely welcome visitors and ensure safety protocols are observed throughout the museum. Learn more about safety protocols at the OMA here.

Soak in the sights of spring as the Council of 101 brings visitors a museum-wide explosion of floral excellence, including breathtaking floral arrangements directly inspired by the Orlando Museum of Art’s permanent collection and current exhibitions.

“Everyone loves springtime in Central Florida,” said Jill Toole, president of the Council of 101. “We’re very excited to host this festival year to bring the community together and help support the arts in a safe, fun way.”

Daily Show Features

Floral Interpretive Designs throughout the galleries
Antique Dealers
Auctions and Special Drawings
Pop-Up Shops
Tables in Bloom
Outdoor Farmer’s Market
Rotunda Bistro 101

General Admission Tickets:

$15 Adults / $5 Children (Ages 3-11) / $12 for Seniors, Military, First Responders and OMA members.

Tickets are available online via Eventbrite. Admission includes access to the Museum’s exhibition, A Boundless Drop to a Boundless Ocean, Voices and Conversations, Art in Bloom, Rotunda Bistro 101 and daily show features. Parking is available on-site for $5.

Advanced, online ticket purchase is required, as the museum continues to operate at a limited capacity, adhering to social distancing guidelines. Designated areas for food and beverage consumption on site. Face masks are mandatory while visiting the museum.

Art in Bloom Show Hours:

Friday, March 26, 2021 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, March 27, 2021 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, March 28, 2021 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

General admission is $15 Adults / $5 Children (Ages 3-11) / $12 for Seniors, Military, First Responders and OMA members.

Tickets for general admission and all events will be sold on Eventbrite.

Art in Bloom Special Events:

Thursday, March 25

Bourbon & Blooms – Opening Night Reception, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

$150 per person
A southern garden party featuring cocktails, light bites, Bourbon tasting and blues
Welcome of the Dr. Aaron DeGroft, OMA’s new Executive Director and CEO.
Tickets include an exclusive viewing of A Boundless Drop To A Boundless Ocean and nighttime preview of Art in Bloom designs, before the event opens to the public.

Friday, March 26

Wine and Beer Garden, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

$75 per person
A casual, outdoor evening om the sculpture garden, under the stars
Tickets include viewing of A Boundless Drop To A Boundless Ocean exhibit.

For more information, please visit the website or call 407-896-4231 ext. 254.

Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival Returns

This spring, flavors are in bloom at Busch Gardens with the return of the park’s fan-favorite Food & Wine Festival starting Saturday, February 20!

Guests are invited to take their taste buds on an adventure as they sample more than 110 tasty treats, including 22 NEW dishes.

Serving guests every weekend from February 20 to April 25 with limited capacity, this year’s menu features festival favorites and fresh twists on classic cuisines from around the country that pair perfectly with more than 80 wines, brews, and cocktails.

In addition to the park’s already strict health and safety measures, which include increased cleaning and sanitation, temperature checks, and face covering requirements, capacity will also be significantly limited to create more open space for guests to maintain physical distancing in a safe environment and enjoy their experience.

Here are a few of the more than 110 tasty reasons to come back week after week:

Fresh finds with seasonal flavors: From the NEW five-spice duck lettuce wrapswith Asian pear coleslaw and plum sauce drizzle to meatless options like the Impossible® slider topped with caramelized balsamic onions and crispy jalapeños, there’s something for everyone.
Savory bites of BBQ, Tex-Mex and more: Try sharable dishes like slowly smoked beef brisket pub chips and tasty handhelds. All American Eats by Kraft-Heinz offers a new take on American favorites featuring bison sliders with bacon onion jam, vintage cheddar, and Heinz® MAYOCHUP™, and lobster white cheddar KRAFT® Mac N Cheese.
Sinfully sweet eats: From NEW Woodford Reserve® bourbon bread pudding, señorita sangria cupcakes, maple bacon cinnamon rolls and more, there’s something to satisfy any sweet tooth.

More than 50 wines, beers and seltzers for all tastes: Take a tasting tour of vineyards and breweries from around the state, country and globe without leaving Tampa Bay. Enjoy a curated selection from Benziger Family Vineyards® and Proud Pour Vineyards®; signature brews on tap from Tampa Bay Brewing Company®, Yuengling®, Florida Avenue Brewing Co. ® and Coppertail Brewing Co. ®; hard seltzers from Funky Buddah® and Maine & Vine®.
More than 20 refreshing cocktails: It’s easy to find the perfect pairing to complement this year’s festival menu with new hand-crafted mixologist recipes like the Tito’s® Handmade Vodka Smoked Bloody Mary and Falcons Fury Lemon Drop with Milagro® tequila, and Flor De Caña® Rum Hurricanes. Chill out with NEW Cutwater® frozen margarita popsicles or frozen watermelon margaritas.

Return to Live Music with Physically-Distant Concerts—Coming Soon to the Festival Field

From nationally recognized bands to local favorites, safely eat to the beat with plenty of open space across the expansive Festival Field. All concerts are included with theme park admission and will take place on select dates in March and April. Concert acts will be announced soon, including upgrade opportunities for premium seating.

For the first course of the Food & Wine Festival, guests can enjoy a taste of local acts at the Coke Canopy stage starting February 20 and running throughout the duration of the festival. Physically distant seating will be available in the open-air pavilion.

Best Way to Play – Busch Gardens Fun Card and Annual Passes

With a Busch Gardens Fun Card, you pay for a day and play all year!* For a limited time, guests who purchase the Busch Gardens Fun Card for $113.99 will receive an Adventure Island Fun Card, plus a bonus single-day ticket to Adventure Island so you can bring a guest for FREE! For the price of a single-day ticket to Busch Gardens, the Fun Card allows access throughout the year, so you can visit again and again, and access great events like the Food & Wine Festival, Summer Nights, Christmas Town and more! Offer ends February 14, 2021.

For more park benefits, guests can upgrade to a Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum Annual Pass to enjoy the perks they want most throughout 2021. Annual Pass Members* receive 12 months of visits with the best benefits ever, including FREE parking, up to 6 free guest tickets, and up to 50-percent savings on merchandise, Quick Queue, and more!

Enjoy the Best of the Food & Wine Festival with a Sampler Lanyard

The best way for guests to savor and save on their favorite dishes and drinks at this year’s Food & Wine Festival is with a sampler lanyard. Guests can purchase a 5, 10 or 12-item sampler lanyard to use at each festival cabin to explore sample-sized dishes and drink offerings with ease, starting at just $34.99 for a 5-punch lanyard.

Pass Members can purchase an exclusive 15-item sampler for the same price as a 12-item sampler to enjoy three FREE samples! Visit buschgardens.com/tampa/events/food-and-wine-festival/ to view the full festival menu.

The 2021 Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Overview

EPCOT will full bloom as the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival fills the park with farm-fresh flavors from around the world from March 3rd until July 5th!

This annual celebration will be slightly different, but beautiful flowers, topiaries with character, fan-favorite entertainment, and family fun can be found around every corner.

Topiary Magic

Throughout the park, guests will be able to find topiaries of beloved animals and Disney characters that have been hand-created by Disney horticulturists.

This year’s Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival guests will be welcomed at the main entrance by the Sorcerer Mickey Mouse, Broom, Ostriches, Hippo, and Mushroom from Fantasia.

Lush Gardens

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival invites guests to explore more than twenty lush gardens filled with dazzling flowerbeds and exotic plants to learn more about sustainable foods and how to live in harmony with the natural world.

Outdoor Kitchens

EPCOT’s World Showcase is where guests will find more than twenty outdoor kitchens offering festival-exclusive menus featuring healthy and wholesome sample-sized dishes and beverages.

Make sure to pick up a Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival gift card to make purchasing these tasty bites easier.

A Taste of Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2020

Familiar Faces

Guests will want to keep their cameras ready because they will never know who they will see in the Parks!

Mickey Mouse and his friends will be out on a sightseeing tour in EPCOT’s World Showcase, while royalty will roll by in the Princess Promenade sporadically during the day.

Live Entertainment

Guests will find live entertainment at several venues in EPCOT’s World Showcase:

Canada Mill Stage – The funkiest gardeners around, the Jammin Gardeners, are ready to tap out a beat to get their audiences moving and grooving.
America Gardens Theatre – Get swept away by inspiring vocal performances by the iconic Voices of Liberty who will be celebrating America’s spirit and beauty with a medley of unforgettable songs.
America Gardens Theatre – Mariachi Cobre lights up the stage with their exuberant performance of world-famous, traditional folk music.
World Showplace – Guests can relax and enjoy a selection of songs performed by a talented pianist as they enjoy dishes from surrounding marketplace kitchens.

Family Fun

Families will not want to miss the chance to experience festival-exclusive exhibits, interactive gardens, and fun activities.

The popular Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration springtime scavenger hunt starring Spike, the buzzzz-iest honeybee at Walt Disney World, and the whimsical Egg-stravaganza Scavenger hunt are returning to keep guests buzzing around the park.

Festival-Exclusive Merchandise

It would not be a festival at EPCOT without exclusive merchandise, and this year guests can choose from a wide variety of items perfect for commemorating their visit to the park!

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs daily from March 3, 2021, through July 5, 2021, and is available with valid admission and a park reservation for the same date.

For more information about the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival and other theme park news, make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

Raglan Road Announces Mighty Festival – Unplugged

Raglan Road 2018 Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival

In 2021, Raglan Road Irish Pub’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration at Disney Springs will be a festival like no other with the Mighty Festival-Unplugged.

Think more acoustic than electric. More intimate than boisterous. The same great live entertainment, with all bands imported from Ireland. The same delicious Irish food and drink. It’s the most authentic Irish celebration in America, and it’s putting safety first for guests with a reservation-only event.

“Everyone can enjoy the usual lively happenings and practiced hospitality, which includes gift competitions and loads of giveaways,” says pub co-owner John Cooke. “And it remains the best Irish hospitality experience in America.”

On St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, Raglan Road will open at 10 a.m. with a $10 cover charge for guests. Reservations are strongly recommended due to limited space.

Guests can book a two-hour slot to join the Raglan Road Irish Pub festivities at Disney Springs, with numbers strictly managed to guarantee social distancing is respected. This year, gathering around bars or stages will not be permitted.

The pub requests that guests respect their two-hour booking to ensure that as many of Raglan Road’s loyal fans have the chance to enjoy America’s finest St. Patrick’s festival.

Raglan Road Disney Springs Mighty St Patricks Day Festival

Raglan Road guests can sip from a huge range of Irish whiskeys, local craft beers and hand-crafted cocktails while choosing from the chef’s selection of authentic Irish dishes, including fresh-caught fish with chips. Those authentic fish & chips also are available to go at the adjacent Cooke’s of Dublin counter.

The Mighty Festival – Unplugged! entertainment lineup will begin with the Raglan Road Irish Dancers, plucked from the casts and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows. This troupe of extraordinary dancers will perform throughout the festival.

Raglan Road Mighty Festival Unplugged 2021 Raglan Road Irish Dancer Disney Springs — Photo: Raglan Road

Entertainment on the main stage will include:

11 a.m.-1 p.m.— The Byrne Brothers – This exceptionally talented traditional Irish music family from Donegal plays to their audience with vibrant charm. They are Luca (button accordion); Finn (banjo, mandolin and whistle); Dempsey (whistle and bodhran); and father, Tommy (guitar, Uilleann pipes, fiddle, whistles, bagpipes and bodhran). Their show combines exciting traditional Irish tunes with modern dance beats.
From 1:30 p.m.– Slygo – A talented, energetic trio, Slygo combine their youth and heritage to perform a vibrant, uplifting mix of trad and contemporary Irish tunes and songs. Signatures of this talented group are their lively arrangements of renowned songs.
From 5 p.m.-Close– Men of Aran – These two legends of the traditional Irish music world, Colin Farrell and David Curley, have toured, performed and recorded with numerous trad Irish music luminaries. They are gifted entertainers and masters of their craft.

On the Patio Stage, guests can enjoy:

From 12:30 p.m. – Aaron O’Sullivan — A singer-songwriter/guitarist from County Cork, O’Sullivan entertains with a mixture of traditional Irish ballads and modern Irish songs.
6:30 p.m.-Close –Slygo

At the pub’s Shop for Ireland boutique, guests will find an array of Irish gifts including Celtic jewelry, apparel, hats, home goods, and toys.

“While we’re taking precautions to focus on safety, we want to hold on to the fun and purity of a good old Irish festival,” Cooke says. “Whether this is your first, or one of many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, we encourage you to join us for The Mighty Festival – Unplugged!”

2021 Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando

The 2021 Seven Seas Food Festival is back at SeaWorld Orlando, and it is bigger and packed with more flavor than ever before!

This year at Orlando’s largest theme park food festival, foodies and families alike can discover the widest variety of chef- and mixologist-curated tastes inspired by cultures from across the Seven Seas.

After a year of limits on international travel, guests can plan a safe, limited-capacity visit to the park where they can roam the expansive open-air grounds and embark on an international flavor journey inspired by the tastes and smells of the Caribbean, Italy, Brazil, Asia and beyond.

The Seven Seas Food Festival, which happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, February 5 through May 9 (and President’s Day on February 15!), will feature SeaWorld Orlando’s enhanced health and safety measures including increased cleaning and sanitation, temperature checks, and face-covering requirements.

With more than 50 fresh global cuisine tastings from around the globe, guests can taste everything from the most indulgent fare to the park’s all-new savory Vegan bites.

In addition to the amazing food, this year’s festival includes SeaWorld’s most expansive beverage menu ever with more than 75 specially curated cocktails and wines and more than 75 craft beers from Florida and beyond.

Guests can discover the flavors of the globe at more than 26 Seven Seas Food Festival marketplaces:

Spice it up with flavors of the Caribbean: New Crispy Florida Cracked Conch and Jerk Chicken Hot Sliders!
A new take on American favorites from Kraft-Heinz: Hot HONEYRACHA® Chicken Wings, Lobster, White Cheddar KRAFT® Mac N Cheese, and NEW! PHILLY® Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cheesecake.
Bold new flavors from the Mediterranean: Goat Cheese Croquettes paired with specialty French wines and perfectly seared Lamb Chops with golden potatoes and feta.

Fresh and sustainable bites and vegan delights: New Jackfruit Sloppy Joes and Tempura Mushrooms & Green Beans with Miso Glaze & Furikake.
Delectable sweets and sips: Try an all-new tantalizing take on cheesecake with the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Cone or indulge in a Frozen Espresso Martini featuring Chameleon Cold Brew Coffee.
Explore new beverages: Signature brews on tap from Dogfish Head, Yuengling, and Big Storm Brewing; tropical cocktails from Reyka Vodka and Milagro Tequila; frozen Jack Daniels slushes; Funky Buddha Seltzers, and much more to sip on!
Sip with a purpose: This year, SeaWorld has proudly partnered with even more companies that give back to local communities and animal conservation efforts: Proud Pour, Beso Del Sol, and more.

New this year is the Seven Seas Beer Garden where guests can relax and unwind as they sip on new favorite craft beverages in a lively setting. With physical distancing and limited capacity, the Seven Seas Beer Garden is an open-air, shaded space—the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the festival.

A complete menu of the Seven Seas Food Festival dishes and drinks can be found online.

Move and groove to exclusive Seven Seas Food Festival live performances:

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

Along with the delicious eats, Seven Seas will once again feature an amazing line-up of top concerts so guests can enjoy a taste of rock, country, Latin, or 90s throwback sounds that are all included with theme park admission.

Take the floor (in a physically distanced way) and sway to the sensational sounds at Seven Seas concert performances. Well-known national bands will take the stage at Bayside Stadium weekend evenings at 6:00 p.m., while local acts will perform concerts at various times throughout the day.
The concert performances kick off with Air Supply at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 6.
Among the upcoming artists scheduled to perform at the Seven Seas Food Festival this Spring are Chris Janson, Blue Ӧyster Cult and Jeremy Camp.
Additional performances will be announced periodically throughout the festival, so guests are encouraged to check back frequently to see when their favorite acts are visiting the Seven Seas Food Festival!

Due to limited capacity and expected high demand, guests are encouraged to purchase reserved seating for select performances.

Best Way to Savor and Sip:

Seven Seas Food Festival SeaWorld Orlando 2019

Discover boundless combinations of food and drink selections with a Seven Seas Food Festival Tasting Lanyard. Guests can embark on their culinary journey with a 10-sample lanyard starting at only $60 or take it up a notch and save over 30% with the fan-favorite 15-sample lanyard for the best savings.

SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members also get the VIP treatment with even more flavor and savings with their 3 free samples with the purchase of a 15-sample lanyard.

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2021

This year the Universal Orlando Resort will let the good times roll during the Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval featuring authentic cuisine inspired by the most iconic Carnaval festivities across the globe.

This first-ever, dynamic celebration of flavor and entertainment will take place daily at Universal Studios Florida from Saturday, February 6 through Sunday, March 28.

Guests will enjoy an eclectic global food fest with more than 70 delectable dishes and beverages from 13 locations around the globe.

Plus, Universal Studios Florida will be decked out in vibrant décor and guests will have the first-ever opportunity to get up close with spectacular and intricately-detailed Mardi Gras floats stationed throughout the theme park.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras Cher Lloyd

They will also enjoy a Big Easy bash in the streets with energetic dancers and stilt performers in extraordinary costumes, brass band musicians, countless beads and a newly-themed Mardi Gras Tribute Store stocked with new merchandise that will give guests the perfect look for this epic celebration.

Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2020 Beignets — Universal Orlando Resort

This culinary journey will feature iconic Cajun fare and traditional Carnaval flavors from across the globe, including:

Fan-favorite Cajun cuisine from New Orleans, such as a Crawfish Boil, Jambalaya, Beignets, and other Big Easy delights.
Classic Carnaval dishes from the islands, such as Pernil & Mofongo from Puerto Rico, a vegan Pholourie from Trinidad and Tobago, and Jerk Chicken from the Bahamas.
Pork Schnitzel Sliders and Bavarian Pretzels from Germany, iconic Paella Mixta and Leche Frita from Spain and Belgium Liege Waffles from Belgium.
Other famous flavors from Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Italy, France, and more!

And that is just a sampling of what Universal Orlando’s culinary team has created for this year’s epic celebration of savory delights.

There will also be Carnaval-themed menu options at Universal CityWalk and at the Universal Orlando Resort hotels.

Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios Florida Mardi Gras 2020 Food Guide

The excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass.

To learn more about Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.

Special Universal Orlando Resort Special Offers

Guests can take advantage of special offers to enjoy the celebration and all Universal Orlando’s incredible experiences.

Right now, any guests who purchase a 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass will receive three extra months free to enjoy all that Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure have to offer. Blockout dates apply on select passes.

Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket and receive three extra days free to experience both parks.

Guests can also take advantage of a special offer to save up to $200 on 4-day tickets for a family of four. For more information and to book these offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

With exclusive theme park benefits available to hotel guests, staying in one of Universal Orlando’s hotels is the best way to make the most of a vacation to the award-winning theme park destination.

Currently, Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $94 per night, plus tax at the all-new value property Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites. Passholders save even more with exclusive nightly rates as low as $89 per night, plus tax, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $116 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay.

For more information about these offers and other hotel options, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/hotels.

Universal Orlando Premieres 2021 Special Offers

The Universal Orlando Resort is welcoming 2021 with SEVERAL special offers that invite guests to plan an epic trip to the award-winning theme park destination this year.

Here are the epic offers guests can take advantage of today:

Get 3 Months Free on any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass

Right now any guest who purchases a 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass will receive three extra months free to enjoy all that Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure have to offer. Universal Orlando Annual and Seasonal Passes are loaded with benefits and perks to experience the resort like a pro, including exclusive extras like discounts and special offers.

This offer is available for purchase through March 31, 2021. Blockout dates apply on select passes. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Family Savings on Vacation Packages

Guests can also take advantage of special offers to receive huge savings on a multi-day getaway to Universal Orlando now through mid-December.

Guests who purchase a 4-Day, 2-Park or 3-Park ticket (starting at $224.99 per adult, plus tax) can save up to $50 per ticket – that’s a combined savings of up to $200 for a family of four.

Guests can also take advantage of this offer as part of a vacation package to Universal Orlando, and receive a total savings of up to $800 on a package that includes five-night accommodations at one of Universal’s beautifully-themed hotels and 4-day theme park tickets for a family of four.

These offers are available for purchase now through April 27, 2021, and can be used for visits through December 17, 2021. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Florida Resident Ticket Offer

Florida residents can also take advantage of an exclusive Universal Orlando ticket offer to purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park ticket (as low as $181 per adult, plus tax) and receive three extra days free to experience both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Florida residents can purchase this ticket now (subject to availability) and can visit any four days through April 30, 2021 with no blockout dates. This offer is not available for purchase at the front gate. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Florida Resident Staycation Offer

Staying in one of Universal Orlando’s hotels is the best way to make the most of a vacation to the award-winning theme park destination, with exclusive theme park benefits like Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, free Universal Express Unlimited access at select hotels, convenient and complimentary transportation across the destination and more.

Florida residents can take advantage of nightly rates as low as $79 plus tax at the all-new Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, while non-Florida residents can book a stay at Dockside Inn and Suites for as low as $88 per night, plus tax based on a four-night stay. And, with a hotel for every vacation style and budget, discounted nightly rates are currently available at every Universal Orlando hotel.

For more information about these offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.

Pirate and Princess Weekends Return to Gaylord Palms Resort

The Gaylord Palms Resort is welcoming guests to enjoy a bounty of family-fun both inside the resort’s atriums and outside at Cypress Springs Water Park during their Pirate and Princess Weekends until March 7, 2021.

Pirate and Princess Weekends invites guests to join the story of the Captain and his crew of notorious pirates who have plundered the Florida Coast in search of The Princess’s priceless treasure. The pirates have made Gaylord Palms Resort their outpost commandeering the resort’s Everglades Swamp, and guests will get to embark on their own adventure as they choose to take the pirate oath or become an honorary princess or prince for the day.

This year several new Pirate and Princess Weekend activities have been added to the line-up of swashbuckling fun that includes the Pirate Pool Party with Jolly Roger, the Princess Academy show where tales of The Princess and the Swordmistress are brought to life, and an exciting journey with Adventure Kid Sophie and friends as they explore the natural world we live in during Adventure Kids: Join the Club.

Pirate and Princess Weekends 2021 Gaylord Palms Resort

The new Pirate Outpost Invasion deep in the newly established Everglades Outpost is an interactive show experience where guests will hear tales of adventure, swashbuckling music, and enjoy a sip of The Captain’s brew. But take heed, because the pirates have made anchor in a nearby harbor and could invade at any time! Experience includes special pirate keepsakes. To allow for social distancing, tickets will be time-specific and capacity will be limited.

Guests can wet their whistle among relics from past treasure hunting voyages and the pirates who scoured the seven seas to retrieve them in the resort’s new, hidden Pirate Speakeasy. These crafted cocktails are fit for a true buccaneer.

In addition to the Pirate and Princess Weekends events, resort guests can enjoy several daily activities.

The Princess’s Shiny Stash Treasure Hunt leads guests throughout 4.5 acres of the resort’s indoor gardens to find the precious treasures hidden from the Princess’s kingdom. But be careful, because pirates love treasure!

As night falls, guests will want to watch high above the trees inside the resort’s St. Augustine Atrium to see the Pirate & Princess Light Display. Each night colorful lights and imagery of swords clashing, waves crashing, pirate ships, crowns, tiaras, and brilliant jewels will appear creating the perfect close to a day of an exciting adventure.

The Wildlife Rescue Experience is a virtual adventure that guides guests throughout the resort to track down endangered species and help ensure that they are monitored for their protection. The experience highlights indigenous animals from Florida and, with the magic of augmented reality, brings them to life before the participants’ eyes.

In celebration of Pirate and Princess Weekends, the resort is offering a special package starting at $189. The package includes overnight accommodations, a Princess’s Shiny Stash Treasure Hunt Booklet, and tickets to the new Pirate Outpost Invasion interactive show. The package excludes resort fee and parking.

For more information, visit CLICK HERE.

As the safety of its guests and STARS (employees) is of paramount importance, Pirate and Princess Weekends has been developed in accordance with Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean” program and with enhanced protocols and social distancing measures. Programming will also operate in consideration of the latest local, state, and federal legislation.