November 2022 Archives - On the Go in MCO

Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida 2022

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to visit the LEGOLAND Florida Resort with the return of HOLIDAYS at LEGOLAND Florida, presented by Hallmark Channel, select dates November 25 through December 31, 2022.

Celebrate the season and build holiday memories with a full lineup of festive entertainment, including new shows, cheerful LEGO décor, merry meet and greets with LEGO characters, tasty holiday treats, and more. Here’s a look at the yuletide fun – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.

Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida 2022

NEW! Seasonal Shows and Tree-mendous Entertainment

Jump into the holiday spirit with new seasonal shows and holly jolly entertainment across the park.

Experience all-new festive flurries set to holiday music in LEGO Kingdoms.

Join the King’s Court Carolers as they sing some favorite songs from the merriest time of year.

Rock around the giant 30-foot LEGO Christmas Tree as LEGO City comes to life in a holiday spectacular with exciting music and dazzling lights throughout the evening.

Children can also stop by the North Pole Postal Service to write a letter to LEGO Santa and then watch it arrive at the North Pole on a digital screen.

Festive LEGO Characters and Holiday Builds!

LEGO Santa is coming to town, and he can’t wait to meet families this season.

Be sure to visit his festive friends LEGO Gingerbread Man and LEGO Toy Soldier, as well as Emmet, Lucy, and Unikitty from THE LEGO MOVIE, who will be cheerfully dressed in their holiday attire too!

Oh, what fun guests will have to build merry memories as they explore seasonal builds and photo spots throughout the park, including a life-size LEGO brick sleigh with reindeer and a LEGO holiday wreath!

NEW! Merry Menu of Holiday Dishes

Tis the season for tasty holiday treats like the Holly Jolly Christmas Cake featuring layers of red velvet cake, cream cheese frosting, and festive sprinkles.

Spice up the holiday with an order of Granny’s Gingerbread-Spiced Apple Fries with a cookie butter dip.

Enjoy all the comforts of a warm holiday meal in a sandwich with the Merry Berry Turkey Burger featuring a cranberry chipotle aioli.

And save room for the Wintery Peppermint Milkshake, a cool seasonal treat.

Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration + Fireworks

Get ready to ring in 2023 with Kids’ New Year’s Eve fireworks, nightly December 26-31, 2022.

The kid-friendly celebration starts with a DJ dance party in LEGO Technic, followed by the signature “brick drop” near Lake Eloise and 3D LEGO brick-bursting fireworks at 8 p.m.

The best way to unwrap all this festive fun and experience more can’t-miss events in 2023 is by purchasing an Annual Pass, starting at less than $13/month with a small down payment.

Annual Passholders will be among the first to ride the all-new Pirate River Quest, setting sail on January 12. Discover swashbuckling adventures during PirateFest Weekends, select dates in January and February.

And don’t miss the biggest sale of the year for Black Friday with deep discounts on Annual Passes, vacation packages, and tickets. Learn more at LEGOLANDFlorida.com.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach is Now Open

Blizzard Beach Reopens November 2022 Frozen — Amy Smith, photographer

It’s a ski-riffic time at Walt Disney World Resort as Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park has reopened with new touches from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Frozen.

The new Frozen features are a part of the kid-sized thrills of Tike’s Peak that’s popular among young guests who will delight in the statuettes of Olaf and his Snowgie pals in the warm wading pool, as well as Anna and Elsa’s igloo castle.

The water park, which features heated water throughout the park, will also have an enhanced holiday atmosphere.

This year there will be limited-time holiday offerings through December 31 that include holiday-themed treats, snowfall, and festive inner tubes. Guests can even meet a tropical-dressed Santa for the ultimate Florida holiday experience.

Popular attractions and features await guests again, everything from slushy and slippery ski jumps to bobsled and toboggan runs to polar play spaces for every family member.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Highlights

Summit Plummet is one of the tallest, fastest freefall body slides around. The heart-pumping attraction plunges guests down Mount Gushmore in a near-vertical drop and rockets them into a darkened tunnel. It’s an attraction made especially for thrill-seekers!
Teamboat Springs is one of the world’s longest group whitewater raft adventures, where up to six riders can take an epic and unpredictable whitewater journey down a mountain.
Toboggan Racers is a unique attraction where guests use a mat to compete in a thrilling race downhill on an eight-lane slalom-style waterslide.
Cross Country Creek is a scenic lazy river that takes guests on an arctic adventure, gliding through mysterious caves and illuminated grottoes and basking in Mount Gushmore’s refreshing spring water throughout polar paradise.
Runoff Rapids offers a choice of three distinctly different inner-tube waterslides, where guests twist and turn down an adrenaline-filled trip down Mount Gushmore.

The food and beverage options will also be a huge draw for guests again. The water park offers several spots where guests can chill out and try mouth-watering culinary creations, such as new Frozen-themed menu items.

Returning popular sweet and savory snacks like the Earidescent Ice Dream Cone, 50th Ice Dream Sand Pail Sundae, and Walt’s Chili Nachos can also be found at various dining locations throughout the water park.

Adults can complement their flavorful bites with chilling new beverage offerings like Orange Slope DOLE Whip Swirl at Warming Hut. There’s also a Red Slope Bloody Mary at Frostbite Freddy’s and a Melt-A-Way Margarita at Polar Pub.

SeaWorld Orlando Early Black Friday Deals

Just in time for the holiday season, SeaWorld Orlando is offering unbeatable deals and great low pricing during the 2022 Black Friday sale.

Save on tickets, Passes, Fun Cards, upgrades, and more!

SeaWorld Orlando Early Black Friday Deals

SeaWorld Orlando Welcome Harbour Vertical

Save up to $40 on Annual Passes: Save up to $40 on SeaWorld Orlando Annual Passes during the Black Friday Sale. Passes start at $150, or $12.50/month + tax for Florida residents with no down payment. SeaWorld Pass Members can enjoy various benefits like free parking, in-park discounts, free tickets for friends, monthly rewards, and more. Pass Members will also be among the first to hang loose on “Pipeline: The Surf Coaster” when it opens to the public in Spring 2023. Annual Pass Members will also have unlimited access to vibrant events throughout the year at SeaWorld Orlando, including the award-winning Christmas Celebration, the delicious Seven Seas Food Festival, and the theme park’s popular Craft Beer Festival.

Save up to 30% on 2023 Fun Cards: Guests can purchase a SeaWorld Orlando 2023 Fun Card and get the rest of 2022 for free! During the Black Friday Sale, it’s only $94.99+ tax and fees, regularly $132.99! You also have the option of a SeaWorld and Aquatica Fun Card for only $138.00+ tax and fees, regularly $199.99. Note: Fun Cards have several blackout dates on admission and do not come with any of the benefits that Annual Passes have.

Save up to 60% on Tickets: For guests looking to visit for a single day or just a few days, the SeaWorld Orlando Black Friday 2022 sale has savings on tickets up to 65% off the regular prices. A single-day ticket is available for as low as $54.99 + tax and fees, a savings of up to $78 off the gate price. A two-park ticket for Busch Gardens and SeaWorld Orlando is available for as low as $87.99 + tax and fees. Additional add-on options for All-Day Dining and Quick-Queue are also available for the single-day ticket option.

40% Off All-Day Dining Deal: Save 40% on an All-Day Dining Deal (regular price $44.99) now only $29.99 as part of the SeaWorld Orlando Black Friday 2022 Sale! The deal allows one entree, side or dessert, and select non-alcoholic beverage perninety minutes at participating restaurants.

SeaWorld Orlando Inside Look Weekends 2022

Save 50% Off Select Tours: Guests can save up to 50% on select animal tours on select dates. There are limited spaces available for each tour, so book as soon as possible to make sure you get your preferred date.

Save $50 on Summer Day Camps: Guests can save $50 on SeaWorld Orlando’s summer day camps, which offer fun, quality educational experiences, superior safety standards, and low counselor-to-camper ratios.

Save 50% on Quick Queue Unlimited and Reserved Seating: Guests can save up to 50% on Quick Queue products on select dates, which allows visitors to skip the line on some of SeaWorld’s most popular attractions.

SeaWorld Inside Look Weekends November 2020

Save up to 30% off Dine with Orca, Dinner with Santa, or Sesame Street Christmas Breakfast on select dates.

$100 off Year-Round Quick Queue, which will allow guests to skip the line on thrilling attractions at SeaWorld Orlando, including “Pipeline: The Surf Coaster”

When bought online, guests can take advantage of these unbeatable offers during SeaWorld’s Black Friday sale from November 14 – 25, 2022.

Christmas Magic at Pirates Dinner Adventure

Santa’s sleigh brought him all the way from the North Pole to Central Florida to celebrate the holidays at Pirates Dinner Adventure!

If you’re looking for a new tradition, the whole family will love, prepare for a jolly good time and a swashbuckling adventure.

Starting November 25, Pirates Dinner Adventure will be spreading Christmas cheer with special holiday offerings through Dec. 31. Guests can experience the action, romance, and excitement of the classic dinner show with a holiday overlay featuring Christmas music and a ship-side visit from a special guest at the end of the show.

During the post-show Buccaneer Bash, guests can party with pirates and take pictures with the Jolly Old Elf himself! A special photo package will be available for purchase.

The attraction’s adult-only, burlesque-inspired show, Teatro Martini, is also getting in the holiday spirit with its own festive overlay throughout the season. Teatro Martini features some of the world’s top performers in various arts, including aerial, comedy, magic, and more.

“The holidays are a magical time in Central Florida and we know Pirates Dinner Adventure will be the perfect place to make new memories with the whole family,” said Amber Valois, sales and marketing manager for the attraction. “We also have Teatro Martini, which is a special show for couples and adults who don’t want to miss out on the holiday fun as well. From the festive shows to classic photos with Santa, you can’t miss our one-of-a-kind holiday experiences!”

Pirates Dinner Adventure’s general admission includes a three-course dinner with unlimited soft drinks.

Ticket prices for the Christmas show are $67.95 for adults and $41.95 for children three to 10. Kids two and under are free.

The show runs Tuesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 4 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 6 p.m.

Call 407-206-5102 or click here to book.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration 2022

Gather your family and join all your festive friends at the SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration, on select dates, November 11, 2022, through Jan. 3, 2023.

See the park transformed into a sea of winter wonder with millions of beautiful lights, entertainment for the entire family, delicious dishes, and much more!

The best gift is that access to all this holiday cheer is included with your park admission!

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration 2022

Explore this holiday celebration, where you can taste decadent holiday treats and find perfect gifts for everyone on your shopping list.

Shows & Entertainment

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration 2019 — SeaWorld Orlando

O Wondrous Night: Hear the greatest story never told with over 30 carols, life-size puppets, and live animals in this signature show that will charm, entertain and delight people from all walks of life.

The Sesame Street Christmas Parade features fantastic, festively decorated floats with show-stopping performances that celebrate the magic of the holiday season! The whole family will experience an energetic Christmas celebration with Sesame Street friends, including Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, Bert, Ernie, and more. Your family is sure to sing, dance, and be merry with their favorite furry friends!

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration 2021

Elmo’s Christmas Wish Show: Join Cookie Monster, Rosita, Grover, and Zoe as they help Elmo find his Christmas wish! Families will surely sing and dance while watching this fun holiday show.

Winter Wonderland On Ice: Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice, jewels, and lights as skaters dazzle and delight in a show-stopping ice skating extravaganza. A sea of sparkling trees and towering fountains dancing in the background come together to create a don’t-miss experience for the holidays that the entire family will enjoy.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration Sea of Trees — SeaWorld Orlando

Sea of Trees: Take a walk through a wintery, watery wonderland and immerse yourself in the expansive holiday Sea of Trees located in SeaWorld’s lagoon. The glistening forest sparkles to music and lights up the water—and your eyes, with 360-degree views from around the park. As the lights dance to holiday classics, your heart will soar with wonder and delight at this truly awe-inspiring Christmas treat. Plus, a magnificent centerpiece towers 70 feet above the water.

Holiday Reflections – Fireworks Finale: Each Christmas Celebration night, SeaWorld celebrates the season during Holiday Reflections: Fireworks Finale, featuring dazzling lights and festive fireworks, choreographed to joyous holiday musical favorites. Experience an amazing SeaWorld Christmas connection that illuminates the night sky. At Park Close on Christmas Celebration nights.

Holiday Meet and Greets

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Returning for another year of festive fun, guests can immerse themselves in the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Rudolph’s Christmas Town. Stroll past life-size storybook vignettes featuring the classic tale, and meet beloved characters, including Rudolph and Bumble.

Photos with Santa at the Waterfront: SeaWorld invites you and yours to meet the Arctic’s most famous resident…Santa Claus.

Delicious Dining

Throughout SeaWorld Orlando, delicious culinary delights await you and your family on a Christmas Treat Trail!

The SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration has a trail of 14 stations where you snack on scrumptious holiday treats and enjoy a holiday-themed beverage.

Christmas Food Facilities open at 5:00 p.m.

SeaWorld Orlando Christmas Celebration Sesame Street Christmas Breakfast

Sesame Street Christmas Breakfast: Join your favorite furry friends for a fun-filled holiday breakfast feast. The whole family will enjoy the tasty breakfast menu options while your Sesame Street friends dance, sing, and mingle with guests for hugs and photos. You won’t want to miss out on this festive dining experience this holiday season! (Adults $32.99 – Children 3 to 9 $16.99)

Walt Disney World Holiday Celebrations

The holidays are just around the corner, and the theme parks of Central Florida will be filled with more merriment and festivities than ever before, with new celebrations joining fan-favorite events.

November 2016 at Walt Disney World — Photo: Walt Disney World – Ryan Wendler, photographer

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

The Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort will be filled with holiday fun as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns on select nights through December 22, 2022.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separately ticketed event with exclusive entertainment, a jolly parade, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, new Disney PhotoPass opportunities, merchandise, characters, treats, and so much more!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets are limited and can be purchased on the Walt Disney World website, with prices ranging from $149 to $199 per person.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party event dates are:

November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29
December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Take part in holiday traditions, sights, sounds, and flavors from around the world during the annual EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays from November 25 through Dec. 30, 2022.

Guests will get wrapped up in the holiday fun experiencing storytellers, musical acts, performers, and “JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season,” a stirring and uplifting music performance in celebration of Christmas and Kwanzaa, daily.

Throughout the park, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Kitchens will be serving traditional and inspired recipes, festive drinks, and sweet treats for all to enjoy.

Most EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays performances and activities are included with theme park admission. Valid Admission and Park Pass Reservation for the same Park on the same date are required.

Candlelight Processional

EPCOT will welcome back the iconic “Candlelight Processional” nightly at the America Gardens Theatre.

This moving retelling of the Christmas story features celebrity narrators accompanied by the Voices of Liberty a cappella ensemble, a 50-piece live orchestra with herald trumpets, and glorious massed choirs comprised of Disney cast members and Central Florida community groups.

This year’s lineup of award-winning actors, singers, and TV personalities features several new celebrity narrators making their debut alongside returning fan-favorite celebrity narrators.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Tinsel Town takes on a new meaning as the holidays arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade, a festive finale to “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration,” holiday glamour on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and festive touches in Toy Story Land.

Sunset Seasons Greetings is the perfect way to add holiday magic to an evening as guests watch the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel transform into holiday scenes inspired by a “Toy Story” toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle, and more.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Holidays are WILD at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with animal-inspired décor including beautiful luminaries on Discovery Island, holiday cheer brought to Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom by ex-pats from Earth, and specialty treats.

The highlight of any holiday trip to the park is the Merry Menagerie of life-sized, artisan-sculpted puppets of winter animals and musicians interacting with guests exploring Discovery Island.

After dark, watch the Tree of Life awaken as a series of wintry tales emerge from within, complemented by holiday-inspired music.

Disney Springs

Shop, sip, and stroll through Disney Springs enjoying specialty food & beverage options, decorations, flurries of snow, and entertainment to ring in the holiday season.

If you are looking for character-inspired cheer, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, located throughout Disney Springs, leads guests on a scavenger hunt to find features festively decorated trees for a special surprise.

At the end of a shopping spree, head over to Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar for limited-time holiday-themed sips and snacks to get into the season’s spirit.

Holiday Merriment at the Univeral Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort guests can take the merriment of the destination’s Holidays celebration to the next level with additional festive experiences on select dates from November 12 through January 1, 2023.

Universal Orlando guests can enjoy exclusive guided tours on Universal’s Holiday Tour this holiday season and encounter the mean, green one himself, the Grinch while enjoying a delicious breakfast during the popular The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast.

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays 2021 Wizarding World

Plus, guests can enjoy a spectacular slate of holiday festivities, including special dining, décor, and entertainment across all eight Universal Orlando hotels.

Universal Orlando Holiday Highlights

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays Save The Dates

Universal’s Holiday Tour

On select dates, guests can enjoy a guided tour filled with unique experiences and special access to the beloved holiday entertainment taking place across Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, such as:

Meeting the maven of mischief, the Grinch, and his faithful dog, Max, while enjoying a delicious hot cocoa bar with small bites and desserts at Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous in Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Access to reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” – a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s holiday classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” in Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays 2021 Grinchmas Cast

Enjoying a meet-and-greet and photo opp with Santa Claus in Universal Studios Florida (includes one digital download photo)
Capping off the night in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure with an exclusive, after-hours showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” – a stunning projection of holiday spirit and Christmas moments inspired by the beloved “Harry Potter” stories brought to life on the majestic Hogwarts castle.

The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle Universals's Islands of Adventure Holidays 2019

Universal’s Holiday Tour is available on select dates beginning November 13 through January 1, 2023, and can be booked by visiting www.universalorlando.com/holidays.

Pricing starts at $79.99 (plus tax) and separate theme park admission with a 2-Park 1-Day Park-to-Park ticket is required.

Annual and Seasonal Passholders receive a $10 discount per ticket per passholder with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-866-346-9350 between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. EDT daily or by visiting the UOAP Lounge in Universal Studios Florida.

Regular Seasonal and Power Pass blockout dates apply.

Universal Orlando Holidays The Grinch and Friends Breakfast

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

The popular dining experience, The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast, is back this year for Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration – allowing guests to start their day with a delicious breakfast and appearances by some of their favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including the Grinch.

Guests also receive access to one digital download photo as a keepsake from their encounter with the Grinch during this special opportunity.

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast takes place in Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous in Universal’s Islands of Adventure on select dates from November 12 through December 29, 2022, and can be booked by visiting www.universalorlando.com/holidays.

Pricing for this experience is $41.99 (plus tax) for adults and $26.99 (plus tax) for children, and separate theme park admission is required.

Annual and Seasonal Passholders can take advantage of a 20% discount on the dining experience’s ticketed price when purchased in person at the front gate or a Guest Services location with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass. Regular Seasonal and Power Pass blockout dates apply.

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays 2021 Hotel Decorations

The Holiday Festivities Continue at Universal’s Hotels

The awesomest celebration of the season continues at all eight Universal Orlando Resort hotels, complete with festive décor that perfectly complements each hotel’s theme, feasts, and special activities filled with holiday cheer for the whole family.

Universal hotel guests can enjoy special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays, menorah lighting ceremonies, holiday crafts for kids, and more.

Select hotels offer additional holiday entertainment, including Christmas tree lightings, strolling carolers, and more.

Universal Orlando Resort Holidays 2021 Holiday Parade Featuring Macy's Santa

Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration kicks off Saturday, November 12, and runs daily through Sunday, January 1, 2023, and features an amazing collection of festivities that range from traditional merriments to irreverent twists on holiday classics – including Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s and live concerts by Mannheim Steamroller (on select nights).

Guests can now take advantage of incredible offers to experience all the fun, including getting four days of theme park thrills for the price of a two-day ticket with the “Buy 2 Days, Get 2 Days Free” offer or saving 30% on a special vacation package that includes five-night accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Universal’s Aventura Hotel, five days of access to Universal Orlando’s theme parks and exclusive hotel benefits.

For more information about the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com/holidays.

Christmas Nights in Lights to Debut in Orlando

Christmas Nights in Lights, an all-new seasonal attraction, will debut its affordable holiday fun for all ages this November at Dezerland Park on International Drive.

“After a successful eight-year run in Mobile, Alabama, we are excited to bring our attraction to Central Florida residents and business and leisure visitors from around the globe,” said Ari Rosenbaum, president, MSEG, the presenting partner of Christmas Nights in Lights. “The advance-reservation option makes it convenient and easy for guests to fit this experience into their busy holiday schedules.”

Christmas Nights in Lights is a dazzling drive-thru light show fully synchronized to popular holiday classics tuned directly to each vehicle’s car stereo on a private radio frequency.

The all-new seasonal attraction will take guests through a showcase of holiday displays and more than 1.5 million “dancing” lights.

Guests never have to exit their cars; they can simply sit back, relax, and take in the spectacle of the synchronized light show before them.

MSEG plans to establish Christmas Nights in Lights as a festive staple of the Central Florida-themed attraction circuit.

Added Rosenbaum, “Whenever we experience the magic of the holiday season, we all become kids again. We are looking forward to seeing all the smiling and awestruck faces of both children and the young at heart at our not-to-be-missed attraction.

The attraction will be open from November 11, 2022, through January 1, 2023, 6-11 p.m., rain or shine.

Per vehicle, admission starts at $45. Tickets to reserve a one-hour time window visit www.nightsinlights.com.

Dezerland Park is located at 5250 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819; entry off West Oak Ridge Road into the parking lot is recommended.

Festival of Trees: Gifts of the Season

The sparkling ambiance, smiling faces, and bright energy at the Festival of Trees will kick off the holiday season for Central Floridians from November 11-20, 2022.

Presented by the Council of 101, the anticipated event celebrates the many blessings given during the holidays with the theme “Gifts of the Season.” Orlando Health returns as the platinum presenting sponsor.

Strolling through the museum gallery, guests will be transported to a time of old-fashioned holiday gatherings. Elegance will be on full display while guests truly embrace the reason for the season. Gifts of the Season celebrates the gifts of time, talent, and heart from the Central Florida community.

“The Festival of Trees not only brings holiday spirit and joy to the community but also ultimately supports the arts and art education at OMA,” said Linda Cegelis, president of Council of 101. “So, to bring timeless elegance and holiday tradition while supporting the arts is truly a joy for the Council of 101.”

During the Festival of Trees, visitors can see more than 50 designer-inspired decorated trees, all available for purchase, exceptional gingerbread houses, wreaths, and more.

In addition, there will be a holiday shopping experience, pop-up shops, and live entertainment.

A variety of special events, including an Opening Night Gala and Tree Lighting, Breakfast with Santa, and a children’s Reindeer Romp party, will add a special holiday touch to this year’s Festival of Trees.

Events presented by Council of 101, including the Festival of Trees, have raised more than $13 million over the years, benefiting the Orlando Museum of Art’s educational and lifelong learning programs.

These programs reach deep into the community by helping people from different walks of life, ages, and income groups.

Tickets will go on sale on October 1 via Eventbrite. For more information, visit councilof101.org.

2022 Festival of Trees: Gifts of the Season

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – General Admission HoursSaturday, November 12 to Sunday, November 20
Ticket prices:

Adults—$20
Children (3-12)—$12
Seniors (60+)—$12
Military Personnel and First Responders (with valid ID)—$12

Special events are priced separately. Please see our events calendar for more information. Parking is $7. Advanced ticket purchases are encouraged and will be available on October 1 Eventbrite and via councilof101.org.

Give Kids The World’s Night of a Million Lights 2022

Give Kids The World’s Night of a Million Lights is back for its third year in a spectacular new venue – with more pizzazz, sparkle, and excitement than ever before!!!

From November 11, 2022, through January 1, 2023, Island H2O Water Park in Kissimmee, FL, will be transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring millions of lights, luminous displays, festive family activities, and live entertainment for a one-of-a-kind, fully immersive holiday experience.

“It’s an honor to help Give Kids The World deliver happiness and hope to critically ill children and their families by hosting Central Florida’s most popular new holiday tradition at Island H2O Water Park,” said Island H2O General Manager Jim Kunau. “We invite the entire community to join us at Night of a Million Lights at Island H2O for 52 nights of family fun, live performances, delicious food and holiday cheer, while helping to make wishes come true for families in our community and around the world.”

Nightly entertainment will include Dueling Pianos, Jingle and Jangle performances, and strolling a cappella group Santa’s Dancing Reindeer, with DJ Jack Frost Ice Block Party leading an interactive holiday hits dance party.

Tickets are on sale now at www.gktw.org/lights/, enabling guests to stroll throughout the property to view the lights; watch an all-new dancing lights show on a five-story waterslide; visit an interactive children’s holiday activities space; interact with strolling performers; explore themed lightscapes, and create priceless holiday memories during visits with Santa…all for a wonderful cause.

Proceeds from Night of a Million Lights at Island H2O will again benefit Give Kids The World Village, an 89-acre, the whimsical nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families from around the world with magical week-long wish vacations at no cost.

Discounts are available for groups of 25 or more and Island H2O Water Park season pass holders. VIP experiences, sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities are also available.

Previously held on-site at Give Kids The World Village, Night of a Million Lights has been relocated this year to accommodate the influx of wish families to the Village – elevating the resort to pre-COVID occupancy levels.

“It has been a privilege to welcome in the public for a glimpse into our storybook Village during the holidays the past two years. However, in order to preserve the life-changing experience we provide to wish families as increased numbers of guests are able to visit, we have made the decision to move Night of a Million Lights off-site – and truly appreciate Island H2O Water Park’s generosity, hospitality and support,” said Give Kids The World President & CEO Pamela Landwirth. “We look forward to joining with Island H2O, sponsors, volunteers and community members to celebrate the season of joy and giving while making an immeasurable impact on the families we serve.”

Island H2O Water Park is located at 3230 Inspiration Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34747. For information about Night of a Million Lights sponsorships, volunteer engagement, or vendor opportunities, visit www.gktw.org/lights.

Central Florida Zoo Hosts Asian Lantern Festival

One of the most anticipated and beloved holiday events of 2021 is back for another year of magic at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens.

The Zoo today announced that the dazzling displays of Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild will return on select nights from November 18, 2022, to January 15, 2023. And this year, a new name will be up in the light. Publix has been announced as the festival’s presenting sponsor.

Central Florida Zoo Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild Holidays

“This is a cornerstone event for us at the Central Florida Zoo,” said CEO Richard E. Glover, Jr. “It’s dazzling, fun and educational. It’s a true community event, and partnering with Publix just made sense. We’re excited to have them and thrilled to offer those in Central Florida the opportunity to enjoy this spectacular event again.”

The festival features dozens of larger-than-life, hand-crafted lanterns that are lit by thousands of LED lights, resulting in a gorgeous display of color, light, and sound that celebrates traditional Asian lantern festivals.

The lanterns are situated on a 3/4-mile loop around the Zoo, providing a truly unique take on a holiday lights show that will leave attendees clamoring to come back again and again with friends and family.

This is the third year for the festival, which started in 2019 and was not held in 2020. Last year, almost all nights of the event hit capacity. Nearly all of the lanterns will be new to the festival this year, so past attendees will have plenty to capture their senses.

This is the first year Publix is sponsoring the event.

“We are proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild Series coming to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens,” said Hannah Herring, Publix media relations manager. “At Publix, we have a history of caring for our customers, associates and communities. We are excited to sponsor an event for the entire family to enjoy this holiday season.”

The festival is presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. For more information about the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, visit www.centralfloridazoo.org.

2022 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.

The festival kicks off on July 14th at Walt Disney World Resort and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families alike as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50^th Anniversary.

2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKC — Matt Stroshane, Photographer

Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, along with live entertainment, family activities, and more.

2022 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

New Sips, Fresh Bites at Global Marketplaces
More than 25 festival food and wine marketplaces located throughout EPCOT celebrate the best in global food and drink. This year, the creative Disney culinary teams have dreamed up unique dishes as nearly one third of the menu offerings are new. Here is a sampling of the many flavors:

Debuting this year is The Fry Basket featuring French fries presented with unique savory and sweet toppings, including the Fry Flight, which features three different flavors: Sea Salt and Malt Vinegar Fries; Barbecued Bacon Fries with smoked aïoli; and Sweet Potato Casserole Fries with candied pecans, toasted marshmallow cream, and caramel whisky
A guest favorite from years past, India returns with three brand-new items: Crispy Paneer with Mango-Curry Ketchup, Potato and Pea Samosa with Coriander-Lime Cream, and Chicken Tikka Masala with Fennel-spiced Yogurt and Naan Bread.

The Belgium marketplace, opening at 8:30 a.m. daily, serves up Belgian Waffles topped with either Warm Chocolate Ganache or Berry Compote and Whipped Cream, as well as Chilled Mocha Coffee – perfect for those who want to get an early start on their epicurean journey.
The Swanky Saucy Swine entices guests with the return of a fan favorite: Crispy Barbecued Pork Rinds with Pimento Cheese, and a new item: Grilled Pork Shoulder Lettuce Wrap with Charred Corn Salsa, Pickled Red Onion, and Cilantro-Lime.
Hops & Barley showcases the best of America with a new Chesapeake Crab Slider with Tangy Coleslaw and Cajun Remoulade, as well as Freshly Baked Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing.

The Alps showcase a new item perfect for the changing seasons: Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese with Riesling-poached Pears, Red Wine-braised Figs, Candied Pecans, Honey, and Cranberry Toast.
And dozens more returning favorite dishes can be found throughout the Festival in Germany, Spain, Canada, Australia, Greece, Japan, Brazil, Coastal Eats, and Flavors From Fire Marketplaces – to name just a few!

Epcot International Food and Wine 2019 Walt Disney World

Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare
Live musical performances at the America Gardens Theatre are scheduled to feature internationally recognized artists Friday through Monday and local bands rocking the house Tuesday through Thursday.

With genres spanning Rock, Latin, Rap, Pop, Country, Gospel, and more, some of this year’s lineup includes:

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Tonic
Blanco Brown
Hoobastank
Los Amigos Invisibles
Sheila E.
38 Special
Robert Randolph Band
Newsboys
Ray Parker Jr.
Billy Ocean
Hanson
Boyz II Men
Kenny G
Sugar Ray
And many others!

With an Eat to the Beat Dining Package (for Friday through Monday concerts), guests can enjoy a leisurely meal at a select EPCOT restaurant and guaranteed seating at one of the performances later that same day.

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

Engaging Experiences Encourage Exploration
Guests can have even more fun exploring the festival by participating in interactive experiences (separate purchase required):

In Emile’s Fromage Montage, cheese lovers can take a walk on the tasty side to sample cheese dishes served in inventive ways. To participate, guests must purchase five different items from the list of qualifying dishes available at select Festival Marketplaces (found in the Festival Passport) and collect a special stamp from each location they visit. Then, guests can receive a special dessert served in a festival cup.
Kids of all ages can embark on a Ratatouille-inspired adventure that’s très magnifique in Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak. In this savory scavenger hunt, guests purchase a map and stickers from select festival merchandise locations (while supplies last) and then explore EPCOT to find Remy statuettes to match their stickers to the map. Whether they search for the ingredients or not, guests may return their map to redemption locations in the park to receive a festival keepsake.
New this year! From Sept. 29-Oct. 31 (or while supplies last), special Halloween fun for the whole family is available in Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit. With the purchase of a map and stickers, guests can search around EPCOT to look for hidden decorative pumpkins themed to Disney characters. Whether they search for the pumpkins or not, guests may return their map to redemption locations in the park to receive a small festival keepsake item.

Sip, Savor, Repeat…and Shop!
This year, the festival merchandise team is serving up five new collections to savor. Guests can visit Festival Markets throughout EPCOT to shop for official event items, including:

Event Logo Collection, with something for everyone including commemorative apparel, accessories and adorable keepsakes
Chef Mickey Mouse and Chef Minnie Mouse Collection, evoking nostalgia for longtime Disney fans with an assortment of tabletop and kitchen-themed items, an apron and more
Princess Tiana Collection, an array of kitchenware and apparel with New Orleans-inspired culinary flair marks the beloved princess’ first exclusive festival specialty merchandise line
Chef Figment Collection, paying tribute to Figment’s love of all things purple – including beets – this fun new collection includes kitchen essentials, trading pins and more
The Chef Remy Annual Passholder Collection, featuring unique Remy inspired merchandise including apparel, trading pins and collectible novelties

Merchandise can be found at festival retail locations across EPCOT beginning July 14, with additional pieces debuting throughout the festival. Select items are also available on shopDisney.com.

To experience the 2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, guests need both a valid park admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date. For more details on this year’s festival, guests may visit TasteEpcot.com.