March 2022 Archives - Page 2 of 2

Mardi Gras Dining at Universal Orlando Hotels

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras King Cake Pancakes

Universal Orlando Resort’s spectacular hotels couldn’t be left out of the 2022 Mardi Gras fun!

Whether you’re staying as a guest or just stopping in for a delicious meal, you’ll find a variety of specially-themed menu items themed to Mardi Gras.

2022 Mardi Gras Dining at Universal Orlando Hotels

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Trattoria del Porto

CREAMY POLENTA SHRIMP
Jumbo shrimp, chorizo sausage, Cajun sauce, creamy polenta
MASQUERADE CANNOLI
Mixed berry insalada

The Thirsty Fish

MAGARI
(Magari is Italian for wish)
Aviation Gin, limoncello, Limone Di Genoa Cider, fresh basil

Splendido Bar & Grill

MOJITO LAMPONE
(Lampone is Italian for raspberry)
Aviation Gin, limoncello, Limone Di Genoa Cider, fresh basil

Hard Rock Hotel

Velvet Bar

ABITA AMBER ALE SHRIMP
Gulf shrimp lightly sautéed in creole garlic butter and Abita Amber Ale, served with sliced French bread

The Kitchen

N’AWLINS PO’ BOY
A classic, piled high with crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, tomatoes, pickle, and creole mayo, served on New Orleans very own Leidenheimer bread

Beach Club

MUFFULETTA SLIDERS
Central Grocery’s spicy olive salad topped with mortadella, ham, salami and provolone cheese, all on classic Sicilian sesame slider rolls

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Islands Dining Room

KING CAKE PANCAKES
Lemon and powdered sugar glaze, spiced walnuts

Orchid Court Lounge & Sushi Bar

ORCHID
Roku Gin, sweet potato shochu, mint, cucumber, absinthe

Tuk Tuk Market

CHOCOLATE BOMB
choose from: chocolate and caramel with spiced pecan with Mardi Gras purple, green and gold decor, s’mores or cookies & cream

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Amatista Cookhouse

ANDOUILLE SAUSAGE & PULLED CHICKEN
with queso fresco empanada, Cajun aioli

Strong Water Tavern

CUCUMBER HURRICANE TWIST
Light rum, lime juice, Midori, sliced cucumber

New Dutch Trading Co.

TRADITIONAL KING CAKE

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Galaxy Bowl Restaurant

SHRIMP PO’ BOY
with queso fresco empanada, Cajun aioli
LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER HURRICANE
“Let The Good Times Roll” – Bacardi Light Rum, Cruzan 12 Year Single Barrel Rum, passionfruit purée, orange juice and grenadine served in a 32-ounce souvenir Galaxy Bowl cup

Universal’s Aventura Hotel

Bar 17 Bistro

CHICKEN, ANDOUILLE & SHRIMP JAMBALAYA
MINI KING CAKE
HURRICANE
Bacardi Superior Rum, Myers’s Original Dark Rum, passionfruit, tropical juices
SAZERAC
Rye, Whiskey, absinthe, simple syrup, Peychaud’s Bitters

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

Beach Break Cafe

NEW ORLEANS BBQ SHRIMP & DIRTY RICE
DOCKSIDE BEIGNETS
Sweet fried pastry with a bourbon caramel sauce and topped with powdered sugar

The Oasis Beach Bar & The Sunset Lounge

THE ENDLESS CARNIVAL
Castillo Silver Rum, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Chinola Passionfruit Liqueur, pineapple juice, orange juice, a pinch of dried blackberries, pineapple wedge and a green sugar rim

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Dockside Pier 8 Market

NEW ORLEANS BBQ SHRIMP & DIRTY RICE
DOCKSIDE BEIGNETS
Sweet fried pastry with a bourbon caramel sauce and topped with powdered sugar

The Oasis Beach Bar & The Sunset Lounge

THE ENDLESS CARNIVAL
Castillo Silver Rum, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Chinola Passionfruit Liqueur, pineapple juice, orange juice, a pinch of dried blackberries, pineapple wedge and a green sugar rim

I have a feeling I am going to be visiting a lot of the Universal Orlando Resorts for these Mardi Gras Treats!!!

If you are going to be doing the same, please keep in mind:

Advance reservations are suggested
Guests must be 21+ with valid photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages
There is an additional fee to park at the Universal Orlando hotels

Looking for more than a visit for dinner to celebrate Mardi Gras?

U.S. and Canada residents who purchase a 3-Day ticket to visit either Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure get an additional TWO DAYS FREE – giving them five (5) days to enjoy epic theme park thrills and the non-stop fun of Universal’s Mardi Gras.

Vacation packages including this epic ticket offer are also available starting as low as $89 per person, per night. This offer is available for purchase through May 5 and is valid for use until December 15 with no blockout dates.

For more information and to take advantage of this incredible offer, click here.

Wekiva Paint Out returns for 16th year

Visitors to Wekiva Island or Wekiwa Springs State Park might be used to seeing kayakers, canoers, paddleboarders, swimmers or even gators and otters splashing around the river. But from February 28 to March 5, 2022, they’ll be seeing canvases, palettes, paint brushes and easels dotting the river’s banks and boardwalks.

The Wekiva Paint Out is back for the 16^th year.

The event draws world-class artists from around Florida and the U.S. who stay at the state park for the week and create incredible works of art en plein air from the gorgeous surroundings. Those works (some still wet!) populate a pop-up gallery at Wekiva Island and are available to view and purchase fresh from the easel.

Proceeds benefit the Wekiva Wilderness Trust and Keep Seminole Beautiful to encourage future protection of the river and its surroundings.

“This is such a unique event, both for our area and for art lovers,” said Mary Sue Weinaug, the event’s organizer. “The Wekiva River is always absolutely stunning, but it’s mesmerizing to see it through these artists’ eyes. The works they create are one-of-a-kind, and it’s all happening right in our backyard in Central Florida.”

Visitors can watch artists work from Monday, February 28, to Friday, March 4, around Wekiva Island and Wekiwa Springs State Park. They can also tour the gallery at Wekiva Island, which features new works daily, from February 28 through March 5.

The Wekiva Paint Out also includes special events:

The Live Auction from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 2. Guests can bid—and maybe get a deal—on pieces of art from each artist during this fast-paced, exciting evening.
Evening Nocturne Painting and Pasta Bar from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 4. Enjoy this special from Without a Paddle Café for $12.95/person and watch as the artists paint in the starlight at Wekiva Island.
The Quick Draw event from 12 to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5. Amateur artists are welcome to try their hand at creating a masterpiece alongside the pros to win cash prizes for $25/entry.
The All-Inclusive Gala celebration from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 5. Celebrate an amazing week of art and tour the gallery, meet the artists and enjoy live music, food and drink for $40/person or $70/couple.

There are sponsorship opportunities for businesses and organizations as well as patron opportunities for individuals, which include tickets to special events throughout the week.

In addition to celebrating art, Weinaug said, the week is meant to support sustainability, two core tenets of Wekiva Island.

Keep Seminole Beautiful sponsors regular river cleanups on the Wekiva. The Wekiva Wilderness Trust is a volunteer organization that supports the state park. The group aims to build a Serenity Garden at Wekiwa Springs State Park meant to create a unique sensory experience for people of all abilities and those with special needs.

For more information about the Wekiva Paint Out, visit the official site.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond the Wekiva Paint Out by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Once Upon a Spring at the Gaylord Palms Resort

Gaylord Palms Resort guests will see lots of larger-than-life, colorful Easter eggs all around the 4.5-acre garden atrium during the annual “Once Upon A Spring” special event.

The Gaylord Palms resort just celebrated its 20th anniversary, and the resort continues the festivities with the Once Upon a Spring event.

From March 4 to May 8, the Gaylord Palms Resort will be hopping with colorful springtime flowers, larger-than-life Easter eggs, an artful pop-up bar, sweet treats to eat (and decorate!), a themed escape room, sing-along fairy tales with Mother Goose, and more.

Once Upon a Spring at Gaylord Palms 2022

Once Upon a Spring Spotlight

Springtime Stories

Famous children’s tales take center stage when Mother Goose leads a musical storytelling experience in Paint Me A Fairytale, an interactive stage show in the hotel’s garden atrium. With the help of her storybook friends, Mother Goose brings classic tales like Little Red Riding Hood, the Princess and the Pea, and Jack & the Beanstalk to life through story and song.

Celebrating its Florida history, Gaylord Palms mixologists have created an orange creamsicle cocktail for the resort’s 20th anniversary. Featuring orange-flavored vermouth and vanilla vodka, the birthday beverage is topped with an anniversary garnish made with cocktail rice paper.

Colorful Cocktails & Multicolored Mocktails

Resplendent artist palettes and pastel paintings serve as inspirations behind The Art Bar, a colorful pop-up bar that features a host of new cocktails and mocktails. Nestled in the Castillo de San Marcos Fort, the bar is the Gaylord Palms mixologists’ toast to the annual springtime celebration. The newly created menu features a wide range of libations made with colorful botanical and fruity ingredients with something to please every palate.

Make a Date to Decorate

Guests are encouraged to play with their food in Springtime Sweets Cookie Decorating, where they can decorate delicious cookies and take them home. This interactive, hands-on activity features a visit from the lovable Easter Bunny, who takes a break from delivering eggs to make a special appearance.

A Fanciful Escape Room

Amidst the bright hues of a dreamlike garden setting, guests work together in the all-new and original Journey Into Spring escape room experience to decipher riddles, find hidden keys and unlock mysteries and secrets of the season.

Eggspress Yourself

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

Rabbits and Riddles

With a book of clues in hand, guests solve puzzles and riddles in the Blossomin’ Bunnies Scavenger Hunt. Successful springtime sleuths who find all of the hidden hares throughout the hotel atrium receive a special prize.

Springtime Nights, Springtime Lights

When night falls, a salute to springtime takes place in the skies above the atrium on the resort’s newly upgraded, animated light curtains. Blooming flowers, pastel Easter eggs, and bouncing bunnies come to life in a bright and colorful display that repeats throughout the evening.

Educating & Entertaining Animal Adventures

There’s plenty of springtime fun for the kids with adventures designed to entertain, enlighten and educate. Adventure Kid Sophie, Ava the Alligator, and Seth the Sea Turtle invite young explorers to join the Adventure Kids Club and learn about nature. At the same time, Wild Florida makes weekly visits to the resort and lets guests get up close with the Sunshine State’s indigenous wildlife. During Once Upon A Spring, Wild Florida will showcase animals like alligators and snakes and share how these unique species help the ecosystem throughout the season. Gaylord Palms has spots all around the resort with virtual animal encounters for guests who don’t want to come face-to-face with a real reptile. Using a mobile device and a special augmented reality application, guests can track down endangered species worldwide and then take a virtual photo with them.

Hoppy Easter!

On Easter Sunday, Villa de Flora will serve a plentiful Easter Buffet for guests to enjoy. In another highlight of the day, guests can visit the Easter Bunny on April 17 in meet-and-greet sessions from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Fresh from delivering eggs, treats, and sweets to children worldwide, the Easter Bunny will pose for photos in the resort atrium.

Year-Round Family Fun

During a season known for warmer temperatures and sunshine, Gaylord Palms guests can highlight their springtime sojourn with family fun at Cypress Springs Water Park. The water park features waterslides for adults and children, a dedicated kids’ water-themed playground, two pools, and Crystal River Rapids – a new action river attraction inspired by Florida’s spring-fed rivers that takes guests through twists and turns at more than three feet per second. Cypress Springs Water Park is an exclusive amenity for overnight guests at Gaylord Palms Resort. Open year-round.

Once Upon a Spring Gaylord Palms Resort 2022

If there are spring showers, guests can find all sorts of fun activities throughout the indoor garden atrium. In addition to the special events, activities, and décor for Once Upon A Spring, guests can take a relaxing stroll through more than four acres of plants, flowers, waterfalls, streams, Florida fish, alligators, and other wildlife.

Inside the atrium, a delicious selection of restaurants and dining options awaits, including gourmet steaks and an award-winning wine list at Old Hickory Steakhouse, fresh, sustainable, and local seafood at MOOR, and a wide selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Villa de Flora.

Commitment to Clean

As the safety of its guests and STARS (employees) is of paramount importance, Once Upon A Spring activities have been created according to Marriott’s “Commitment to Clean” program and enhanced protocols. The event will operate according to the latest local, state and federal legislation.

Packages and Tickets

In addition to the 20th-anniversary suite special, the Gaylord Palms offers Once Upon A Spring packages that include guest rooms, event tickets, and resort credit at discounted prices. To purchase tickets for Once Upon A Spring events – as well as find booking information for Valentine’s Day spa specials and the Easter Sunday Buffet – guests may visit GaylordPalms.com.

Iron Gwazi Pass Member Dates

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open Iron Gwazi, the world’s fastest and steepest hybrid coaster, exclusively for Pass Members on select dates starting February 11 before the ride opens to all park visitors on March 11.

“The incredible anticipation for Iron Gwazi is shared by both our guests and Ambassadors, and we are beyond excited to open this amazing coaster,” said Neal Thurman, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Park President. “Iron Gwazi diversifies our thrill ride portfolio and is an impressive addition to the Tampa skyline. Combining classic elements of a wooden coaster with a smooth, steel track will provide thrill-seekers with an unforgettable experience.”

Available Iron Gwazi Pass Member Preview dates are based on Annual Pass tier:

Feb. 13 – 14: Platinum Pass Members
Feb. 18 – 21: Platinum and Gold Pass Members
Feb. 24 – 28: Platinum, Gold, and Silver Pass Members
March 3 – 6: All Pass Members
March 7 & 10: All Pass Members plus Fun Card Holders

To partake in the Pass Member Preview, simply visit the entrance of the Iron Gwazi queue during a day that your Annual Pass tier is eligible for the exclusive preview ride times. An ambassador will greet you at the entrance and scan your Annual Pass. Then, you can proceed through the ride queue and experience the new record-breaking hybrid coaster!

All active Pass Members (who meet the 48″ height requirement) are invited to join us during the exclusive ride times.

Being North America’s tallest hybrid coaster, this ride takes thrills to new heights, plunging riders from a 206-foot-tall peak down a 91-degree drop and reaching top speeds of 76 miles per hour. Iron Gwazi is Busch Gardens’ tenth coaster and exhilarating addition to the park’s collection of thrill rides. Riders will experience a dozen airtime moments, including three inversions while racing along more than 4,000 feet of steel track. With a 48” height requirement, this invigorating attraction is a ride the whole family can conquer together.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond Iron Gwazi by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Disney Dreamers Academy Returns for 15th Year

Disney Dreamers Academy, an educational mentorship program created and hosted by Walt Disney World Resort, plans to return with a reimagined approach, March 3-6, marking its 15^th year of broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.

disney dreamers academy workshop — 2nd from Left: Jaterria Hicks, of Atlanta, Ga., learns medical principles during a medical workshop (Todd Anderson, photographer)

This year, the impactful program will introduce the Disney Dreamers to an array of new immersions designed to continue to foster the dreams of young leaders beyond imagination, including career-building workshops, networking sessions, mentorship connections, and introductions to future professional opportunities at The Walt Disney Company and beyond.

For its 15th year, Disney Dreamers Academy is supporting students in even more ways. In a new initiative, Disney Dreamers Academy, in partnership with ESPN’s The Undefeated and GRAMMY-nominated rap artist Cordae, is awarding college scholarships to 11 students from underrepresented communities attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities, such as Black America, by encouraging the next generation to think big and to carry what they learn back with them, so they can relentlessly pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.

“We are excited and honored to celebrate 15 years of Disney Dreamers Academy with this year’s class,” said Tracey D. Powell, Walt Disney World Resort Vice President and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “We’ve embraced this opportunity to amplify the event, and we’re thrilled to introduce new experiences, new career programs, and new mentors.”

Since 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,300 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities as they prepare for their futures. In the years following, graduates have gone on to become doctors, nurses, engineers, pilots, journalists, and more, and have transitioned into mentors to the Disney Dreamers who follow them, including event speaker Princeton Parker (Class of 2011), who is now a Disney cast member.

Each year the Disney Dreamers are selected from thousands of applicants who answer essay questions about their personal stories and dreams for the future. The students and a parent or guardian are given an all-expenses-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida for the event.

These Disney Dreamers engage in a wide variety of experiences at Walt Disney World while working side-by-side with and hearing inspirational stories from community and business leaders, Disney cast members, celebrities, and other special guests.

During the four-day event, the 100 students selected for the annual program participate in sessions teaching valuable life tools such as leadership skills, effective communication techniques, and networking strategies. They also experience in-depth career workshops in a variety of disciplines aligned with the students’ dreams. These workshops introduce the Disney Dreamers to diverse career paths within business, entertainment, and sciences, including career opportunities within The Walt Disney Company.

Past celebrity participants have included stars from the big screen and television, noted sports figures, popular musicians as well as personalities, and cast members from across the Disney family including “Good Morning America,’’ ESPN, Disney Channel, and the TV series “black-ish” and “grown-ish.”

For more information, visit the official website and find regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Seven Seas Food Festival 2022 at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is kicking off 2022 with the Seven Seas Food Festival that’s packed with more flavor than ever before every Thursday through Sunday, February 4 through May 8.

Global Cuisine Tastings

Seven Seas Food Festival SeaWorld Orlando 2022

This year at Orlando’s largest theme park food festival, foodies and families alike can enjoy over 200 chef-and mixologist-curated tastes inspired by cultures from across the Seven Seas.

Guests can embark on an international flavor journey with all-new markets inspired by the tastes and smells of Ireland and Sicily, joining the ever-popular Caribbean, Italy, Brazil, Asia, and beyond.

With more than 50 fresh global cuisine tastings from around the globe, there is something to tempt every guest. In addition to the amazing food, this year’s festival includes SeaWorld’s expansive beverage menu ever with more than 75 specially curated cocktails and wines and more than 75 craft beers from Florida and beyond.

Discover the flavors of the globe at over 24 festival marketplaces including a variety of new dishes including:

All New! Enjoy a Taste of the Irish in the All-New Irish Market: Ruben Egg Roll, New Classic Mini Shepard’s Pie, Braised Lamb Pie, and New Glazed Corn Beef (gluten free)
All New! Taste the Good Life at the Flavor of Sicily: Featuring select wines and specialty cocktails like the New Amaro, Limoncello and Gra’it Verra Grappa Italiana.
Savor the flavor at the Gulf Coast Market: New Gulf Gumbo, a New Orleans classic featuring shrimp, sausage and a Cajun broth.
Spice it up with flavors of the Caribbean: New Montego Bay Spicy Shrimp and New Caribbean Spicy Rum Cake featuring Dark Meyers Rum, brown sugar and a rum glaze.
Unwind in the Beer Garden with all-new brews: High Stepper from Crooked Can, Jai Alai from Cigar City, Free Dive from Coppertail, I-4, from Orlando Brewing, Big Nose from Swamp Head and Hop Gun from Funky Buddha.

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

26 Live Performances

SeaWorld Orlando Praise Wave Music Festival — 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—all included with theme park admission.

Concerts begin at 7:00 PM unless noted. Some of our headliners include:

Justin Moore
Flo Rida
Steve Augeri of Journey
Molly Hatchet
LOCASH
Vanilla Ice
ASIA featuring John Payne
Everclear

Concerts are included in admission. For the best seats in the house, Reserved Seating can be purchased online.

Best Way to Savor and Sip

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 $65 or take it up a notch and with the fan-favorite 15-sample lanyard for the best savings.

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

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks at the Seven Seas Food Festival and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

2022 Universal Orlando Mardi Gras

Get ready to let the good times roll again as Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras returns February 5 – April 24, 2022.

This year’s celebration will fill Universal Studios Florida with a spectacular Mardi Gras parade, celebratory cuisine featuring diverse flavors from around the world, the much-awaited return of star-studded live concerts, and so much more.

Mardi Gras happens on select nights and is included in the price of admission to Universal Studios Florida!

Laissez le bon temps rouler!

2022 Universal Orlando Mardi Gras

Universal Orlando Resort Universal's Mardi Gras 2022

“Planet Mardi Gras” Parade

Every year the Universal Orlando Resort knocks it out of the park with their Mardi Gras parade, and this year’s original parade theme is “Planet Mardi Gras.”

To go along with the theme, six all-new and incredibly-detailed floats featuring cosmic-inspired elements will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats, including my favorite Jester and the nearly 50-foot long King Gator.

The “Planet Mardi Gras” parade will wind through the streets of Universal Studios Florida on select dates, accompanied by high-energy music and dozens of performers donning illuminating costumes that bring the party to “light” in a whole new way.

Flavors from Around the World

Universal’s award-winning chefs have cooked up an array of delicious culinary delicacies inspired by various locations around the globe to spice up this year’s Mardi Gras festivities.

This international culinary journey includes dishes like the tasty Crawfish Boil and melt-in-your-mouth Beignets from New Orleans, Coconut Curry Shrimp Laksa (a sweet and spicy noodle soup) from Southeast Asia, Vegan Samosas with spicy green chutney from India, and Salchipapas (a popular street food made with sausage and potatoes) from Central America.

Want to save some money while experiencing these fantastic flavors? Pick Up a “Mardi Gras Food and Beverage” card, available for purchase throughout the park during the event.

Live Music at Mardi Gras

On select nights during Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration, celebration goers can enjoy free concerts from music legend Diana Ross, global superstar Khalid, Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Marshmello, and 12 other top artists.

This year’s Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2022 Concert Lineup includes:

February 5: Sugar Ray
February 12: Diana Ross
February 19: Barenaked Ladies
February 20: Styx
February 26: Jon Pardi
March 5: LL COOL J feat. DJ Z-Trip
March 6: Marshmello
March 12: Lee Brice
March 13: Becky G
March 18: Khalid
March 19: Seal
March 20: Gavin DeGraw
March 25: The Revivalists
March 26: Jimmie Allen
March 27: Jason Derulo

These amazing concerts will take place on the Music Plaza Stage, an outdoor, standing-room-only venue inspired by the iconic Hollywood Bowl.

Are you looking for more of an authentic Mardi Gras beat? Brass bands will perform daily throughout the park, bringing the soulful sounds of New Orleans to the heart of Universal Studios.

Tribute Store - Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 2020 - Store Exterior — 2020 Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Tribute Store

“Float Factory Warehouse” Tribute Store

The Mardi Gras Tribute Store is also returning with an all-new theme, Float Factory Warehouse.

Upon entering the incredibly themed retail space, guests will venture through four highly themed rooms designed to visually depict the creative process of bringing a parade float to life.

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras fans will want to take extra time to see everything from pencil sketches and scale models to parade décor to an actual, full-size Mardi Gras float.

The Tribute Store is open daily for guests to take home a piece of Florida’s Biggest Party, snap some fun pictures, and even enjoy an event-exclusive treat.

Universal Orlando Resort Universal Studios Florida Mardi Gras 2020 Food Guide

Indulge Beyond the Park

Party beyond the park with Mardi Gras-inspired cuisine at select Universal CityWalk venues and Universal Orlando hotels.

At CityWalk, specialty food can be found at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen, Pat O’Brien’s, and Voodoo Doughnut.

You will want to resort hop to every Universal Orlando hotel to enjoy their unique specialty menu of items.

Special Mardi Gras Offers for Florida Residents

All the excitement of Universal’s Mardi Gras is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida, and Florida Residents have two great ways to save.

Florida Residents who purchase a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure will receive an additional two days free.

Want to kick that special offer up another level? Florida Residents can also add a 1-Day ticket to Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme park for only $29 more.

This amazing offer is available for purchase through March 31, is valid for use until June 30 without blockout dates, can be used on non-consecutive days, and requires proof for Florida residency.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Science Fiction, Science Future Exhibit at Orlando Science Center

Let your imagination run wild with the possibilities of the future in our latest exhibition, Science Fiction, Science Future, presented by The Macauley and Helen Dow Whiting Foundation, coming to the Orlando Science Center from January 29 to May 9, 2022.

The exhibit will also be a key feature of this year’s Otronicon Science Festival and Tech Expo, when it returns as a fully in-person onsite event during Presidents Day Weekend, February 18-21.

Created by the renowned Scitech in Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Science Fiction, Science Future will allow you to move objects with your mind, disappear right before your eyes, interact with a robot that copies your movements and experience augmented reality in action.

When you look back at iconic works of science fiction, they often predict the innovations of the future. Tablet computers, GPS, automatic doors, and even biometric health data tracking were all just figments of the imagination when they first appeared on Star Trek in the 1960s. Now, these are everyday technologies.

Science Fiction, Science Future gives you the chance to explore the technology that classic science fiction predicted for our future while you imagine what comes next. How long do you think it will take for robots to walk the streets with us? They already built our cars and explore space. You could predict the next great invention!

Inside the exhibit, you will also be able to draw and describe what you think houses, transportation, and our planet will look like in the world of tomorrow.

Will we live on Mars, get around using jet-pack rockets, or have a robot cook our meals? It’s up to you to decide.

We live in an exciting time in a world that is constantly changing due to technological advances. For example, it used to be fantasy to have robots works for us but now they vacuum our homes, act as personal butlers, and even do complex tasks like performing surgeries!

Find out more about the science fiction predictions that could become realities in this thought-provoking exhibition. Make sure to check out Science Fiction, Science Future while it’s at the Orlando Science Center.

The future is here, and it’s in your hands! For more info, timed-entry tickets, and health and safety guidelines, please visit www.osc.org.

2022 Garden Rocks Concert Series Line-Up

I am really excited to share that the popular Garden Rocks Concert Series is returning to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival this March!

New this year, internationally recognized artists will bring the groove to the America Gardens Theater stage Friday-Monday, while local Orlando bands step into the spotlight Tuesday-Thursday.

The series features something for everyone – from returning favorites like The Guess Who, Rick Springfield and Simple Plan to Latin hitmakers Melina León and Claudia Leitte, Christian music superstar TobyMac and groovin’ legends Kool & The Gang.

2022 Garden Rocks Concert Series Audience

2022 Garden Rocks Concert Series Line-Up

March 4-5 – The Guess Who
March 6-7 – Rick Springfield
March 11-12 – Melina Leon – NEW to Garden Rocks
March 18-19 – Mike DelGuidice, currently on tour with Billy Joel – NEW
March 20-21 – Kool & The Gang – NEW to Garden Rocks
March 25-28 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
April 1-2 – The Spinners
April 3-4 – The Pointer Sisters
April 8-9 – Blue October – NEW to Garden Rocks
April 15-16 – Tommy DeCarlo, singer of the band Boston – NEW
April 17-18 – Don Felder, Formerly of The Eagles
April 22-23 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
April 24-25 – Claudia Leitte – NEW
April 29-30 – Berlin
May 1-2 – TobyMac
May 6-7 – Blood, Sweat & Tears
May 8-9 – The Commodores – NEW to Garden Rocks
May 13-14 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett – NEW
May 20-21 – A Flock Of Seagulls
May 22-23 – Collin Raye – NEW
May 27-28 – Thelma Houston – NEW
May 29-30 – Little River Band
June 3-6 – Simple Plan
June 10-13 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
June 17-20 – Plain White T’s

Beginning January 19th, guests can secure their spot at the show by booking a Garden Rocks Dining Package available Friday-Monday. Find out more by visiting FreshEPCOT.com

Please remember that in order to experience the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, guests must have both valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date.

Dragons & Fairies at Leu Gardens

“Dragons & Fairies” debuting at Harry P. Leu Gardens from January 28 through March 6, 2022. A moving story centering around an adolescent fairy and her dragon friend unfolds as live actors in beautiful costumes take audiences on a ¾ mile theatrical journey.

Along the way, large-scale lighting installations, lots of surprises, and nine animatronic dragons await.

Presented by Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies and the creators of “Dazzling Nights”, “Down the Rabbit Hole” and the annual IMMERSE festival in Orlando comes to another fantastical, family-friendly journey that will inspire audiences with wonder, awe, friendship, and adventure.

“‘Dragons & Fairies’ is a journey, unlike anything audiences, have seen before,” says Creative City Project Executive Director Cole NeSmith. “It has been our goal to continually create safe, memorable, inspiring, spectacular events for audiences of all ages amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Following the massive success of ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ earlier this year, we are excited to now transform Leu Gardens from the winter wonderland it is now with ‘Dazzling Nights’ to a fantastical world of adventure with ‘Dragons & Fairies’, which we promise to be an immersive, theatrical experience not to be missed.”

Dragons & Fairies at Leu Gardens

LOCATION: Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803

DATES: January 28 – March 6, 2022 (Wednesday through Sunday)

TICKETS: Tickets are $22 per person on Wednesday and Thursday and $25 per person Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Purchase at www.dragonsorlando.com.

PARKING: On-site parking is available for $12.

Busch Gardens Mardi Gras 2022

Let the Good Times Roll with Busch Gardens Mardi Gras, select dates from January 8 through March 6.

Get jazzed up with Mardi Gras-style live music and New Orleans-inspired entertainment. Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and get caught up in the fun as you dance through spacious walkways. Feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay.

Busch Gardens Mardi Gras 2022

Mardi Gras Dining Locations

LIVE MUSIC, PARADE AND BEADS

MARDI GRAS PARADE – The Bird Gardens come to life as entertainers, stilt walkers and musicians bring the Mardi Gras spirit to Tampa Bay during this lively parade.

BEAD GARDEN – What’s Mardi Gras without beads? Stop by the Bead Garden for an opportunity to catch beads with your party.
Select times during event hours. Limited quantity of beads available.

BRASS BAND – Enjoy Bourbon street beats and jazz classics as the Brass Band gets the party started in the Bird Gardens.

LIVE LOCAL MUSIC – Immerse yourself in the music of New Orleans as local musical groups bring zest to this flavorful event.
See the daily schedule for showtimes.

Tastes of Mardi Gras

Tempt your taste buds with a signature shrimp po’ boy, hearty jambalaya and gumbo, or specialty sweets like iconic beignets. Handcrafted cocktail classics like Hurricanes join new signature drinks for a perfect pairing with the park’s carefully crafted culinary offering. Try them all with a Mardi Gras Sampler Lanyard!

Cupcakes during Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa

XCURSIONS

Mardi Gras Cupcakes (2 or 4 Packs)
Rum Tastings
Artisan Crafts

Beignets during Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa

SWEET BEIGNETS

Beignets: Traditional Powdered SugarWoodford Reserve Chocolate DrizzleBanana Foster
Smoked Bourbon Peach Sour Cocktail: Woodford Reserve, Peach Sour, Club Soda

Jambalya during Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa

JACKSON SQUARE

NEW! IMPOSSIBLE™ Dirty Rice: Spices of New Orleans, Green Onions, IMPOSSIBLE™ Meat
REIMAGINED! Shrimp & Grits: Cajun Garlic Shrimp, Smoked Cheddar, Tasso Ham, Stone Ground Grits
Creole-Style Jambalaya: Chicken, Andouille Sausage, Tomatoes, Green Onions
Spiced Vanilla Old-Fashioned Cocktail: Woodford Reserve, Vanilla, Bitters

Hurricanes

HURRICANES

Traditional Hurricane: Served Frozen or Iced Spike DAT! +$3.50

Shrimp Po'boy during Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa

ESPLANADE STREET BITES

NEW! Smoked Peppered Brisket: Chipotle Cream, New Orleans Kettle Chip, Green Onions
NEW! Smoked Chicken Po’boy: Bourbon BBQ, Crisp Lettuce, Pickles
Shrimp Po’boy: Crispy Shrimp, Creole Remoulade, Crisp cabbage, PicklesSmoked Bloody Mary Cocktail: Tito’s Vodka, Hickory, Fresh Lemon

Guesting enjoying drinks from the giraffe bar

GIRAFFE BAR

Hurricanes
Select Draft Beers
Frozen Cocktails
Cocktails on Tap

NOLA CREAMERY

NEW! French Quarter Chocolate Amaretto Cheesecake Waffle Cone: Chocolate Drizzle, Mardi Gras Sprinkles
REIMAGINED! The Mardi Gras Waffle Cone Sundae: Salted Caramel Ice Cream, Popcorn, Chocolate Drizzle, Whipped Topping, Wild Morello Cherries
REIMAGINED! Bourbon Street Cream and Cookie: Choice of Ice Cream, Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie, Chocolate Drizzle

BAYOU BEVERAGE

(GARDEN GATE CAFE)Draft Beer
Frozen Cocktails: Strawberry Daiquri, Piña Colada, Tampa ViceGold Coin Mojito, and Green Fairy Margarita

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

Dr. Phillips Center Announces 2022 Shows

Courtesy of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

A diverse array of musicians, comedians, and entertainers are set to perform in Walt Disney Theater and Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center in the new year!

Newly Announced Dr. Phillips Center Shows

Dr. Phillips Center Presents Pat Metheny SIDE-EYE with James Francies & Joe Dyson

Dr. Phillips Presents Pat Metheny SIDE-EYE with James Francies & Joe Dyson

Date: Thursday, February 17, 2022
Time: 7:30 p.m.

About Pat Metheny

It is one thing to attain popularity as a musician, but it is another to receive the kind of acclaim Pat Metheny has garnered from critics and peers. Over the years, Metheny has won countless polls as “Best Jazz Guitarist” and awards, including three gold records for (Still Life) Talking, Letter from Home, and Secret Story. He has also won 20 Grammy Awards spread out over a variety of different categories including Best Rock Instrumental, Best Contemporary Jazz Recording, Best Jazz Instrumental Solo, Best Instrumental Composition and, at one point, winning seven consecutive Grammys for seven consecutive albums.

In 2015 he was inducted into the Downbeat Hall of Fame, becoming only the fourth guitarist to be included (along with Django Reinhardt, Charlie Christian and Wes Montgomery) and it’s youngest member. Metheny has spent much of his life on tour, often doing more than 100 shows a year since becoming a bandleader in the 70s. He continues to be one of the brightest stars of the jazz community, dedicating time to both his own projects and those of emerging artists and established veterans alike, helping them to reach their audience as well as realizing their own artistic visions.

Dr. Phillips Center Presents Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Date: Tuesday & Wednesday, February 22 & 23, 2022
Time: 7:30 p.m.

About Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater grew from a now-fabled performance in March 1958 at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. Led by Alvin Ailey and a group of young African-American modern dancers, that performance changed forever the perception of American dance.

The Ailey company has gone on to perform for an estimated 25 million people at theaters in 48 states and 71 countries on six continents, as well as millions more through television broadcasts, film screenings and online platforms. Today, the Company continues Mr. Ailey’s mission by presenting important works of the past and commissioning new ones. In all, more than 235 works by over 90 choreographers have been part of the Ailey company’s repertory.

Before his untimely death in 1989, Alvin Ailey named Judith Jamison as his successor, and over the next 21 years, she brought the Company to unprecedented success. Ms. Jamison, in turn, personally selected Robert Battle to succeed her in 2011, and The New York Times declared he “has injected the company with new life.”

Dr. Phillips Center in association with AEG Presents Jay Leno

Date: Friday, February 25, 2022
Time: 7:30 p.m.

About Jay Leno

Acclaimed TV late night host, admired stand-up comedian, best-selling children’s book author, much-in-demand corporate speaker, TV and movie voice-over artists, pioneering car builder and mechanic and philanthropist…Jay Leno is widely characterized as “the hardest working man in show business.”

Jay Leno’s late night television rating domination included two decades as the host of the #1-rated The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. After the first two years, Jay Leno never lost a single ratings year in which he served as host.

Leno is the recipient of many honors, including Emmy, People’s Choice, and TV Guide awards, Harris Poll selection as most popular star on television, the Hasty Pudding Award at Harvard University, The Mark Twain Prize, recipient of the Patriot Award given by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and being the first person to drive the pace car of all major NASCAR events.

Dr. Phillips Center Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Dr. Phillips Center in association with AEG Presents Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Date: Sunday, March 20, 2022
Time: 8:00 p.m.

About Frankie Valli

The original Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles, with unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ‘63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.”

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide. Valli’s legendary career was the inspiration for the Broadway juggernaut Jersey Boys.

Frankie Valli is not only a pop music icon, but also an actor, having been featured in the iconic television show, The Sopranos, as Rusty, the capo in the Lupertazzi crime family, as well as Rob Reiner’s romantic comedy, And So It Goes, alongside Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton.

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons continue to tour throughout the U.S. and abroad to packed houses, receiving nightly standing ovations from thrilled fans of multiple generations.

FL Falun Dafa Association Presents Shen Yun 2022

Date: Friday-Sunday, May 20-22, 2022
Time: Show times vary

About Shen Yun

The culture of ancient China was divinely inspired. Shen Yun’s works reflect this rich spiritual heritage… Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away!

Tickets for these performances are on sale now at www.drphillipscenter.org!

Iron Gwazi Opening Date Announced

Iron Gwazi Busch Gardens Tampa Bay March 2022

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced that Iron Gwazi will open as North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world in March 2022, in time for Spring Break.

The new ride will take thrills to new heights, plunging riders from a 206-foot-tall peak into a 91-degree drop and reaching top speeds of 76 miles per hour. The journey will include a dozen airtime moments, including three inversions, as it races along more than 4,075 feet of purple steel track. With a 48” height requirement, Iron Gwazi will be an exciting attraction that thrill-seeking families can take on together.

“Iron Gwazi has been highly anticipated by roller coaster enthusiasts around the world since we first announced this new legend. Due to the unprecedented challenges over the last two years, Iron Gwazi was delayed, and we recognize the delay has disappointed our fans. We appreciate the patience our guests have shown.” said Neal Thurman, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Park President. “We’re finally able to confirm that we will be delivering on the next-level thrills that our coaster fans crave and expect from Busch Gardens when we open this incredible coaster this spring.”

Iron Gwazi will be the 10th roller coaster to join Busch Gardens’ lineup of highly rated roller coasters and thrill rides, including Tigris, Florida’s tallest inversion, SheiKra, a 200-foot, 90-degree drop coaster, and Montu, recognized as one of the top 10 coasters in the country.

THE BEST WAY TO PLAY – Buy a new 2022 Busch Gardens Fun Card, get 2021 FREE!

One of the best ways to experience Iron Gwazi is with a 2022 Fun card. For the best value, visit again and again with a 2022 Busch Gardens Fun Card and get the rest of 2021 for FREE! This incredible deal offers more than four bonus months when you buy now, for only $119.99 for a limited time*.

*Some restrictions and blockout dates apply. 2022 Fun Card valid through December 31, 2022.

For access with more benefits and low monthly payments starting at $12 per month, guests can also upgrade to a Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum Annual Pass to enjoy the perks they want most. Annual Pass Members* receive 12 months of visits with incredible benefits including exclusive ride opportunities, FREE parking, up to 6 free guest tickets, savings on merchandise, and more! Annual Pass Members and Fun Cardholders also get special discounts for the best deals on Howl-O-Scream.

Guests can visit www.BuschGardensTampa.com for more information and to purchase tickets, Fun Cards, Annual Passes, or tickets.

The safety of our guests, Ambassadors and animals in our care remains our top priority. Consistent with CDC guidance, we recommend that our guests wear face coverings while indoors.