The Scarecrow Stalk at Universal Studios Florida from September 18 to November 1, 2020, is a free activity sure to get your family in the spooky spirit of the season.
WARNING!!!!!!!!!!!!
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO TAKE ON THE SCARECROW STALK AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA THIS SPOOKY SEASON AND WANT TO AVOID SPOILERS, TURN BACK NOW!!!
BELOW YOU’LL FIND PHOTOS OF EACH SCARECROW AND SKELETON…SO KEEP GOING AT YOUR OWN RISK….
This free activity takes you throughout the park to find 13 scarecrows in skeletons to receive a Trick-or-Treat candy sampler bag!
Make sure to pick up your Scarecrow Stalk guide before starting on your journey as it has a map of where you can find the scarecrows and skeletons and shows the redemption locations.
We started ours at the Universal Studios Store since it was near the entrance of Universal Studios Florida.
As you travel to the 13 locations, make sure to receive your stamp for visiting and to take some fun pictures along the way.
Here are the Scarecrow Stalk locations at Universal Studios Florida:
1. Universal Studios Store
2. Silver Screen Collectibles
3. Five and Dime
4. Spongebob Storepants
5. MIB Gear Shop
6. Custom Gear
7. San Francisco Candy Factory
8. Rosie’s Irish Shop
9. Sahara Traders
10. Shrek’s Ye Olde Souvenir Shoppe
11. Film Vault
12. Supply Vault
13. Super Silly Stuff
And the Scarecrow Stalk redemption locations can be found at San Francisco Candy Factory and Studios Sweets.
I hope that you enjoyed joining us on our Scarecrow Stalk!!!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
I was really excited to head to the Universal Orlando Resort for the Premiere Passholder preview of the Halloween fun testing in the park this weekend, and it’s time for some real talk about the experiences you find in both parks!!!
First, let’s talk lay of the land at Universal Studios Florida.
This weekend Universal Orland is testing daytime admission to two Universal Orlando Haunted Houses that are included with your regular admission to the park.
The queue for Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives can be found near Universal Music Plaza.
The Revenge of the Tooth Fairy queue is located just to the left of the Tribute Store.
Queues = Time for REAL TALK
I always like to look at the “worst” park of the experience before looking at the good, and with that being said the queues are BRUTAL!!!!
First thing that you will notice in the picture and feel is that there is no shade in a majority of the queue.
And while wait times could be posted, because of the heat it felt longer than you’d expect.
BUT instead of being a ‘Debbie Downer’…let’s talk about how to combat these two issues!!!
Make sure to pack an umbrella in your park bag to use for shade & inclement weather.
Grab a bottle of water before you enter the queue, make sure your phone is charged, & be patient.
How to be prepared for your Universal Orlando Resort visit this weekend
Step 1: Make sure you’ve downloaded and set up your official @universalorl app by linking your tickets & setting up mobile ordering (you’ll thank me for that last part later)
Step 2: From the house listing on the app, both houses open at 9:00 am – so no sleeping in!!! You’ll want to arrive at the park early to make sure you get in the virtual queue as soon as possible!
PLEASE NOTE: I would absolutely advise getting to Universal Studios Florida before it opens!!!!!!!
Step 3: You heard me…Virtual Line! These houses will be utilizing the Virtual Line Experience only! No standby!
Universal Orlando Resort Virtual Line Tips
When setting up your app, allow push notifications (you can always change this later)
As soon as you tap into the park look for the Virtual Line in your @universalorl app!
Put in how many people are in your party. If this doesn’t match the number in your party, you’re out of luck.
Only one person needs a Virtual Line time, don’t be that group!!!
Review Time
Here’s my spoiler-free review of Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives
The house is a solid continuation of the Universal Monster series and had consistently awesome theming.
All safety measures taken didn’t detract from the scares.
Make sure you listen to the story as you’re going through the house!
Here’s my spoiler-free review of Revenge of the Tooth Fairy:
Stepping into this twisted folklore tale with a Steampunk vibe is perfect for those who are new to haunted houses.
Don’t get me wrong, there were some solid scares!
Other Halloween Fun at the Universal Orlando Parks
While you’re at Universal Studios Florida, don’t forget to do the Scarecrow Stalk (video coming soon) until November 1st!!!
The Skeleton Bar (Cafe La Bamba) has some great theming and tasty treats for the entire family.
Near the Tribute Store, you’ll also find a food truck serving up HHN specialties.
And for a ghoulishly good time at Universal Islands of Adventure make sure kids under 12 pick up a bag and go Trick-or-Treating at select stores.
Participating Trick-or-Treat locations have these stickers on their entrances.
Overall we had an awesome time exploring the Halloween fun at Universal Orlando and the Team Members did an awesome job bringing the spirit of the spooky season into the parks!!!
The Universal Orlando Resort has announced that this weekend, September 19 and 20, guests will be invited to test several seasonal experiences that are included with your daytime admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Halloween Horror Nights fans are out of mourning as there are two heart-pounding haunted houses at Universal Studios Florida—Revenge of the Tooth Fairy and Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives—that will be open for guests to experience.
Scream All Day at These Haunted Houses
These haunted houses will scare the daylights out of you all weekend long, with frights brought to life through twisted artistry.
Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives
“We belong dead.” The last words of Frankenstein’s monster on that fateful night when his Bride rejected him. But his end was her beginning. Now the Bride is stepping out of the shadows to bring him back. And there’s nothing she won’t do as she sharpens her brilliance by experimenting on unsuspecting victims. The mate will have her monster. And the monster his mate.
Revenge of the Tooth Fairy
The innocent traditions of the tooth fairy hide a darker ritual. All children must give up their baby teeth to the goblinesque tooth fairies or pay a gruesome price. Step into an old manor that has been overrun by yellow-clawed fiends who extract teeth by force. It’s an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.
The Virtual Line™ experience is available for the haunted houses. When you’re on property, use The Official Universal Orlando Resort app to select a return time for your group.
WARNING: HAUNTED HOUSES MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUME MASKS ALLOWED.
Halloween Fun Expands to a Second Universal Orlando Park
Looking for a more family-friendly option? At Islands of Adventure, children under 12 can grab a free trick-or-treat bag and go door-to-door collecting tasty treats from participating retail stores this weekend. But first, you’ve got to find them, so keep a lookout for pumpkin stickers marking each location,
Show Off Your Ghoulish Garb
Get in the sinister spirit of the season by dressing up when you visit Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure this weekend. Go creepy, classic, or as your favorite character.
You can find out more about the costume guidelines and fall offerings here.
Special Universal Orlando Ticket Offer for Florida Residents
Don’t forget that time is fleeting for Florida residents to take advantage of the BEST Universal Orlando Resort ticket deal I have ever seen – Buy a Day, Visit Every day thru Dec. 24 For Free. FIND OUT MORE HERE BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE >
The Universal Orlando Resort announced that their Resort Hotels will reopen to the public starting June 2, 2020.
This will be a phased opening and will include a wide range of new and enhanced health, safety, and hygiene procedures to ensure the health and safety of all guests.
The phased reopening of the Universal Orlando Resort hotels will include:
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando,
Loews Royal Pacific Resort,
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort,
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort,
Universal’s Aventura Hotel, and
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites.
Guests staying in these hotels will be able to visit the theme parks on June 3 and 4, prior to the public reopening on June 5.
Universal Orlando Resort
Plans for Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites will be announced at a later time. Guests who have booked reservations at these two hotels through Universal Orlando or Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations will be contacted to modify their reservation if it has been affected.
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando’s resort hotels, co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co, have enhanced their standards and protocols throughout their operations.
These enhancements currently include:
Guests, team members, and vendors are required to wear face coverings in public areas
Team members and vendors will be required to have temperature checks upon arrival. Those with temperatures of 100.4 degrees or greater will not be allowed to work.
Guests will be asked to self-screen for COVID symptoms and comply with quarantine orders prior to arrival
Guest will have temperature checks upon arrival and anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher will require medical clearance in order to enter the hotel
Hand sanitizer stations in public areas and elevator landings
Universal Orlando Resort
Enhanced cleaning of guest rooms, meeting rooms and public areas with an EPA-approved cleaner and disinfectant
Frequent cleaning of high-touch areas such as telephones, remote controls, door handles, light switches, elevators, and tabletops, among others
Food & Beverage outlet capacities limited based on the latest recommendations and guidelines
Social distancing signs and reminders of social distancing requirements in high-traffic areas
Several contactless experiences for guests, including hotel texting-services, express checkout, and contactless room deliveries
Universal CityWalk is now open with select venues and with new health, safety, and hygiene procedures in place. Universal Orlando’s three theme parks – Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay – will reopen to the public beginning June 5.
For information on CDC guidelines, click here. For more information about Universal Orlando’s policies during this time, visit Universal’s website. Due to the evolving nature of this situation, details are subject to change without notice.
Universal Orlando Resort
All Universal guests are urged to follow CDC guidelines and self-assess for potential symptoms of COVID, including cough, temperature, and difficulty breathing, prior to their arrival. Guests should also evaluate their own risk before they visit – and it is not recommended that individuals at high-risk with serious underlying medical conditions visit the destination. People who show no symptoms can still spread COVID-19 if they are infected. Any interaction with the general public poses an elevated risk of being exposed to COVID-19 and Universal cannot guarantee guests will not be exposed during their visit.
In addition, guests should be aware of and comply with government guidelines regarding travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines.
Universal Orlando Resort
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Check out our other posts on the other theme park reopening announcements!
During the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force Meeting on May 21st, Universal Orlando’s Chief Administrative Officer John Sprouls and Rich Costales, Executive Vice President of Resort Operations, Universal Orlando submitted a reopening plan that would begin June 1, 2020.
Here are the highlights from the Universal Orlando Reopening plan presented during the call:
Universal Orland Reopening plans shows that the park will open in a gradual managed way starting June 1st and 2nd for team members, June 3rd and 4th will be open to selected invited guests in order to test the new procedures, and on June 5th, the parks will be open to the general public.
The Universal Orlando Resort also announced their plans for Team Member health screenings, additional breaks, and safety.
Guests will receive pre-arrival communication ensuring they understand what measures are being put in place for safety as well as what will be expected of them upon entering the park.
Additional communication will be delivered via the Universal Orlando App, new signage, and ambassadors throughout the park.
In addition to the existing social distancing measures put in place at the entrance of City Walk the parking lot will have staggered spaces, and the valet service will be suspended until further notice.
Temperature checks and face coverings will be required for all guests and team members. If guests do not have masks, they will be provided by Universal Orlando.
Team members will begin training on new procedures beginning May 23rd in preparation for reopening.
A number of modifications will be made to attractions and play areas including:
Interactive play areas will be closed
Water effects and misters have been disabled on attractions
Access to virtual queue technology has been expanded to include additional attractions
Single Rider lines will be closed to stop comingling of parties
Ride queues have been updated to allow for social distancing with markers
Entertainment will continue, but there will be no up-close character or performer meet and greets.
Dining locations will offer disposable paper menus and expanded mobile ordering.
All attractions, merchandise stores, and dining locations will have hand sanitizer stations at all entrances and exits.
Universal Orlando Resort
Digital payments through ApplePay, GooglePay, or the Universal Orlando App will be accepted at all locations. Cash will not be refused, but additional precautions are in place to ensure the safety of guests and team members with these transactions.
Representatives from The Orange County Recovery Task Force as well as The Florida Department of Health did an onsite inspection of the steps put in place by Universal Orlando, and were satisfied with the results.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
CityWalk was really the ‘Epicenter of Awesome’ this week as they opened with limited operations.
It was so great to once again see people roaming CityWalk, but I will caution you that I expect the area to be busy this weekend so there a few things you can do to cut down on your waits!
Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App – Be ready to make those Cashless purchases and make sure to link your Universal Orlando Resort Pass for discounts!
Plan to arrive early: They are limiting the number of guests they are allowing in the CityWalk area, and there can be a back up at the parking plaza as self-parking is free.
Be prepared – Have that mask on and ready as you approach the temperature check so security can pass you as quickly as possible.
Be patient – Mind those 6ft social distancing markers on the ground, relax, and make sure to enjoy your time once again at Universal’s CityWalk!!!
CityWalk at the Universal Orlando Resort is open daily from 4-10 pm, but please remember that the theme parks and resorts are still currently closed.
On the Go in the Parks: Disney Springs
While I know it is a bit early…let’s look ahead to the opening of Disney Springs on May 20, 2020!
There is so much to look forward to, and new information is coming out everyday!
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 20th include:
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
STK Orlando
Wine Bar George
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
YeSake
The Polite Pig
Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Co.
4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck
Sunshine Churros
Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream
Earl of Sandwich – Just Announced
Planet Hollywood Observatory – Just Announced
Chicken Guy – Just Announced
The Boathouse – Just Announced
Disney Springs shopping locations opening May 20th include:
American Threads
Anthropologie
Crystal Arts by Arribas Bros.
Free People
Pele Soccer
Pop Gallery
Ron Jon Surf Shop
Uniqlo
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 22nd include:
Pizza Ponte
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia Street Food
Vivoli il Gelato
We are still waiting on a lot of details about the opening of Disney Springs, so make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
CityWalk, at the Universal Orlando Resort, will begin limited operation of select venues on Thursday, May 14 from 4-10 pm daily as they take the first steps toward reopening the destination.
Let’s talk about what you will find once the area begins its limited operations!
5 things to know about Universal Orlando’s CityWalk Limited Operations
1. What safety measures will be in place for guests?
The Universal Orlando Resort is working closely with local health officials and their own health and safety experts and adhere to CDC guidelines.
Universal Orlando Resort
Here are specific safety measures you will find when Universal Orlando’s CityWalk begins limited operations:
Team Members will undergo temperature checks and will wear face coverings.
Temperature checks for each guest will be taken upon arrival. If a guest has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater, they will not be able to enter CityWalk.
The Universal Orlando Resort will require guests to wear face coverings during their visit, and they will have complimentary disposable face coverings as well as face coverings available for purchase at cost. If a guest has a disability that prevents them from wearing a facial covering, they’ll be directed to the Guest Services team to discuss reasonable accommodations.
Each venue will limit the capacity to help enforce social distancing, and all chairs and tables will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each seating. High-touch surfaces throughout CityWalk will be frequently cleaned and disinfected as well.
Cashless payments will be available at all venues.
Please note the CDC advises that older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Guests should evaluate their risk in determining whether to attend.
People who show no symptoms can spread COVID-19 if they are infected, any interaction with the general public poses an elevated risk of being exposed to COVID-19, and the Universal Orlando Resort cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed during your visit.
2. Where can I park?
During the limited operations of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk, self-parking is complimentary and is subject to change.
It is important to note that each restaurant will have a limited menu and limited seating available, and reservations are recommended for full-service restaurants.
Guests are also encouraged to go contact-free with the Official Universal Orlando app, available for free in the App Store and Google Play Store.
5. What shopping locations will be open?
While additional shopping locations may open, currently the following CityWalk locations are scheduled to open May 14, 2020:
To prepare for your visit, you can find more information on the CDC guidelines here and more information about Universal Orlando’s policies during this time here.
Again, please keep in mind that Universal Orlando’s theme parks and hotels as well as Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk Hollywood remain closed through at least May 31, 2020.
I am soooo excited to see locations begin to reopen, and I can’t wait to visit Universal Orlando’s CityWalk!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Discover the Behind-the-Scenes Story of the Toys at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes
Two years before the orange doors of Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes officially opened in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, Maria Kazaros and her team were already hard at work to bring novelty jokes and pranks inspired by those of Fred and George Weasley to life.
As a senior buyer on Universal Orlando Resorts’ merchandise team, Maria essentially is involved with product development, taking the idea of something and turning it into something tangible. Or, as is the case with her role developing merchandise for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, taking the idea of something and turning it into something magical.
“One of the hardest parts in the beginning was just, how do you bring things to life from Harry’s world,” Maria explains. “We spent many months watching the movies, reading the books, brainstorming, doing work sessions. And we brought in some of the fans to see what they liked. Those fans care and they know what they want, so that helped us all in figuring out what the merchandise in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter would be.”
Of course, while the source material for the Wizarding World (as seen in the Harry Potter film series) is plentiful and rich in detail, it can be tricky taking something you see in a movie and figuring out how to make it into an operational toy.
“One thing that I do is I rely on my product partners who are experts in the industry and know how toys can go from nothing to something,” Maria says. “I ask a lot of questions or just come to them and say, ‘I want to make this, can I?’ And then we’ll sort of reengineer it and I get to create my vision, so to speak.”
Maria has been with the company since 1999, starting out as a store manager in a handful of merchandise locations until joining the merchandise development team in 2001. Maria says she enjoys working with toys because it allows her to be a problem-solver.
“It’s challenging to take something non-magical, like a pen, and make it magical,” Maria says. “Or something that is magical, like The Monster Book of Monsters, and make it something real for people to interact with.”
Walking through Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, there is a lot to interact with. From the toilet-in-the-front-window flushing at the flick of your interactive wand, to all the Extendable Ears and Skiving Snackboxes your heart desires, the entire shop is packed to the ceiling (which, be sure to look up at for a surprise) with Weasleys-inspired items and tie-ins to the movies.
“I still watch the movies over and over because there’s so much that you can still catch from them that you haven’t seen,” Maria says.
To be honest, I also watch the Harry Potter movies over and over, so what’s the difference when Maria does? When I watch a scene with the Marauder’s Map, I am simply enjoying the magic of it all. Maria on the other hand…
“The Marauder’s Map was a fun one to figure out,” Maria says. “You hit it with the wand and the footprints go around, just like in the movies.”
One of Maria’s top priorities when developing merchandise for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is ensuring everything feels authentic — taking the notch up on what people expect from an everyday toy. And as for the merchandise in Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, there is a unique chaos she aims to capture.
“When you think of that scene in the movie, everything is moving. Dolores Umbridge on the unicycle moves in their store and moves in ours. So that’s one we actually created and brought to life from the movies.”
Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about how you can be On the Go in the Parks this weekend on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!
The theme parks of Central Florida are always buzzing with excitement and events, and here is everything you can experience On the Go in the Parks this weekend!
The 27th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will bloom at the Walt Disney World Resort filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spring daily until June 1, 2020.
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will rock every evening of the Festival with three performances by chart-topping artists on the America Gardens Theatre stage.
Here is who you can see perform this weekend:
March 6 through 9: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is included with your theme park admission.
Have you ever wanted to jump through the screen and into “Mickey Mouse” cartoon short? Well now is your time to make it happen, because anything can happen aboard Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The newly reimagined Mickey Shorts Theater debuted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on March 4, 2020, and I was really excited to check it out!
Located adjacent to the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, the new Mickey Shorts Theater is designed to evoke the fun of the Mickey Mouse shorts where ‘Mouse Rules Apply’.
Universal Orlando is celebrating 25 years of its family-friendly Mardi Gras festivities with new parade floats, globally inspired cuisine, and live concerts on select nights from February 1 to April 2 at the Universal Studios Florida theme park.
This year’s parade features six new additional floats and steps-off at 7:45 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.
This weekend you can see:
Saturday, Mar. 7 – REO Speedwagon @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 8 – Dustin Lynch @ 8:30 pm
Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands. You can see the New Breed Brass Band will take to the French Quarter Courtyard Stage daily until March 21.
All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).
And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.
In 2020 the Seven Seas Food Festival will runs weekends through May 5, including Fridays (WOOOOT), to give park-goers plenty more chances to sample more than 180 mouthwatering options from Chef Héctor Colón and his amazing culinary team!
New food offerings include the cricket crusted bison slider, duck and mushroom ramen bowl and the chicken and waffle.
Enjoy local craft beers and mouthwatering culinary flavors while exploring our marketplaces throughout the park.
In addition to delicious eats, guests visiting SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can enjoy world-class entertainment every Saturday and Sunday at Bayside Stadium, all included with theme park admission.
This weekend the Seven Seas Food Festival will feature free concerts from:
March 7 – AJR
March 8 – Dylan Scott
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Spring has sprung in the theme parks of Central Florida, which means that March is filled with special events that invite guests to enjoy the wonderful weather!
Universal Orlando is celebrating 25 years of its family-friendly Mardi Gras festivities with new parade floats, globally inspired cuisine, and live concerts on select nights through April 2 at the Universal Studios Florida theme park.
This year’s parade features six new additional floats, and steps-off at different times during the month.
The parade steps off at 6:15 pm: March 1- 6
The parade steps off at 7:30 pm: March 9-12, 16-19, 23-27, March 30 – April 2
The parade steps off at 7:45 pm: March 7, 8, 13-15, 20-22, 28-29
On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.
Here is who will be performing in March:
Saturday, Mar. 7 – REO Speedwagon @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 8 – Dustin Lynch @ 8:30 pm
Friday, Mar. 13 – Luis Fonsi @ 8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 14 – The All-American Rejects @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 15 – Diana Ross @ 8:30 pm
Friday, Mar. 20 – Chris Young @8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 21 – Earth, Wind & Fire @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 22 – Marshmello @ 8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 28 – Why Don’t We @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 29 – Gavin DeGraw @ 8:30 pm
Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands.
In March you can see the New Breed Brass Band March 6 through March 21 and the Naughty Professor Brass Band March 22 through April 2 on the French Quarter Courtyard stage.
All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).
And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.
Don’t forget that Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Studios Florida are held rain or shine, so be sure to plan accordingly.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival is back for another year to give guests the delicious opportunity to taste their way around the world of international street food traditions. The Seven Seas Food Festival will run through May 5, including Fridays, to give park-goers plenty more chances to sample more than 180 mouthwatering options!
A complete menu of the Seven Seas Food Festival dishes and drinks can be found online here.
In addition to delicious eats, guests visiting SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can enjoy world-class entertainment every Saturday and Sunday at Bayside Stadium, all included with theme park admission.
Here is who will be taking the stage in March:
March 7 – AJR
March 8 – Dylan Scott
March 14 – Hunter Hayes
March 15 – Joe Nichols
March 21 – YES and Alan Parsons Live Project
March 22 – Edwin McCain
March 28 – Gin Blossoms
March 29 – Village People
Concerts are held at Bayside Stadium each Saturday and Sunday at 6:00 p.m. To ensure you get the best seats in the house, guests can purchase reserved seating for select performances. Reserved seating opportunities are available online here.
The 27th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will bloom at the Walt Disney World Resort filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spring daily from March 4 until June 1, 2020.
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will rock every evening of the Festival with three performances by chart-topping artists on the America Gardens Theatre stage.
Here is who you can see perform this month:
March 4 and 5: Peabo Bryson – NEW!
March 6 through 9: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
March 10 through 12: The Guess Who
March 13 through 16: Simple Plan
March 17 through 19: STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
March 20 through 23: Mark Wills – NEW!
March 24 through 26: The Spinners
March 27 and 28: Sister Hazel
March 29 and 30: The Pointer Sisters
March 31 through April 2: Steve Augeri – Former Lead Vocalist of Journey
A world of taste awaits at the sixth annual Food & Wine Festival each weekend until April 26. The festival features new and exciting dishes, plus a large selection of wines, craft brews and cocktails.
While enjoying delicious eats, fans can see some of the biggest names in music as they take the stage on the Festival Field.
This month’s concerts include:
March 1: The Commodores
March 7: Chase Bryant & Danielle Bradbery
March 8: Rachel Platten
March 14: Ezra Ray Hart
March 15: THREE DOG NIGHT
March 21: LOCASH
March 22: Fitz & The Tantrums
March 28: Home Free
March 29: Taking Back Sunday
All concerts are included with daily ticketed admission to the park.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
It wouldn’t be Mardi Gras at the Universal Orlando Resort without food, and this year they’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of the biggest party with new and returning Cajun-style cuisine.
From fan-favorite classics like Gumbo and Jambalaya to delectable new dishes inspired by carnivals worldwide – there are so many unique flavors to explore.
Let’s take a look at the food and beverage options coming to this year’s Mardi Gras Celebration!
New Mardi Gras Dishes at Universal Studios Florida and Universal CityWalk
From February 1 through April 2, guests can enjoy new menu items at The French Quarter Courtyard at Universal Studios Florida and several locations in Universal CityWalk, including Voodoo Doughnut, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and more.
NEW Carnival Around The Universe Tasting Tent: This all-new tasting tent in the French Quarter Courtyard will feature dishes inspired by carnivals worldwide with new menu items debuting bi-weekly throughout the event, including a variety of plant-based options:
Week 1 and 2 (Feb. 1 – Feb. 15) will feature cuisine from Trinidad & Tobago:
Grilled Pineapple Trini Chow: Topped with kimchi seasoning and micro cilantro (Plant-based)
Pholourie: Fried spicy split pea dough with turmeric, curry powder and a tamarind chutney (Plant-based)
Chickpea Double: Chickpeas served on a spicy bara flatbread with micro cilantro and mango chutney (Plant-based)
Week 3 and 4 (Feb. 16 – Feb. 29) will take guests back to where the Bayou Bash first began and explore Louisiana Creole cuisine even further:
Softshell Crab Slider: Crispy softshell crab topped with organic vegetable slaw and served on a soft brioche roll with bayou aioli
Cauliflower Dirty Rice: Riced cauliflower with Gardein crumbles, Black-eyed peas and Cajun spices (Plant-based)
Pecan Street: A specialty cocktail with pecan vodka, caramel and apple cider
Grilled Pineapple Trini Chow
Week 5 and 6 (March 1 – March 14) will celebrate Brazilian Carnival with delicious treats:
Pão de Quiejo: Traditional warm cheese bread with a guava dipping sauce
Sugared Sweet Plantains: Covered in cinnamon and sugar and served with banana poppy seed dipping sauce (Plant-based)
The Girl from Ipanema: A specialty cocktail featuring gin, lime, orgeat syrup, coconut water and pineapple simple syrup
Week 7 and 8 (March 15 – April 2) will place you in the heart of Germany:
Sauerbraten: Slow braised beef, buttered Spaetzle, and pickled red cabbage topped with a savory red wine sauce
Grilled Bratwurst: Served on a potato pancake with whole grain mustard and sour cream and chives
And a warm pretzel!
NEW ‘Float Floats’ at Schwab’s Pharmacy: Inspired by the all-new Mardi Gras parade float theme, Treasures of the Deep, Schwab’s Pharmacy will serve over-the-top ice cream floats to celebrate Florida’s biggest party, including:
Mardi Gras Float: Pineapple and lime soft serve with grape soda, blueberry Boba and a waffle cone flag
Shipwreck Float: Pineapple and chocolate soft serve with pineapple soda, cotton candy, and a waffle cone flag
Sunken City of Atlantis Float: Vanilla soft serve with wild berry soda, mango Boba and a gummy shark
New Specialty Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Also inspired by this year’s Mardi Gras theme, are new specialty cocktails served in exclusive souvenir cups including High Seas Twister with rum, blood orange liqueur, and watermelon juice, and the Bourbon Street Punch with bourbon, orgeat, coconut puree, and orange juice to name a few. Plus, also new to this year’s event, are recommended food and drink pairings which can be found on the tasting tent menu boards. For the little jesters in the family, there are a variety of non-alcoholic beverages including the all-new coconut water that is served out of an actual coconut, which is available at The Carnival Around the Universe Tasting Tent during the first two weeks, and the fan-favorite Bayou Bog Water.
New Orleans Flair at Universal CityWalk: New Mardi Gras themed food items will debut at Universal CityWalk at several locations, including Voodoo Doughnut, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and more:
For the doughnut lovers out there – head over to Voodoo Doughnut and pick up a yeast doughnut filled with cinnamon sugar Bavarian cream and topped with vanilla glaze and sprinkles inspired by the iconic Mardi Gras colors
Ever wanted to drink an iconic Mardi Gras king cake? The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen will be serving up The French Quarter artisan milkshake that includes king cake, cream cheese crema and pastry cream topped with king cake and a beignet
Seasonal cocktails throughout Universal CityWalk, including The Jester found at the food and beverage carts, Voodoo Doctor at Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom and Masquerade Martini at The Cowfish
Additional Mardi Gras inspired menu items can be found at venues across Universal CityWalk
Add-on New Orleans Inspired Experiences at Mardi Gras
As part of the family-friendly version of the renowned Big Easy bash, guests can also purchase festive Mardi Gras add-on experiences for guests craving more.
Due to popular demand, The Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard will return, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes and beverages for one price throughout the event. Whether guests are looking to enjoy all of this year’s food and beverage items, or sample just a few of the bold new additions, there are a variety of Mardi Gras Tasting Lanyard options to choose from starting at $30 plus tax. Among these options is an exclusive Passholder Tasting Lanyard, which includes 15 sample dishes for $60 plus tax.
On select nights, The Bayou Boil – An Exclusive Mardi Gras Experience, will allow guests to enjoy a Louisiana-style boil featuring crawfish, shrimp, potatoes and corn-on-the-cob, as well as an exclusive viewing area for the Mardi Gras parade with king cake, beignets, sparkling wine and assorted non-alcoholic beverages. Tickets for adults are $59.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $39.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.
Universal Orlando Resort
For guests with a sweet tooth, the Mardi Gras Feast & Floats Dessert Party is available on select nights from March 9 through April 2, giving them the best view of the Mardi Gras parade while enjoying specialty desserts, savory bites, hot chocolate, assorted non-alcoholic beverages, and sparkling wine and cider. But the party doesn’t stop there – guests will also have an exclusive viewing area for Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration. Tickets for adults are $49.99 plus tax, and tickets for children (ages 3-9) are $29.99 plus tax. Separate theme park admission is required.
Returning Cajun Cuisine Favorites
Fans of the traditional and authentic New Orleans cuisine – don’t fret! Your favorite classic Cajun dishes will return to The French Quarter Courtyard at Universal Studios Florida including jambalaya, shrimp gumbo, crab etouffee, gator bites, a variety of po’boys, Cajun twisted tators, king cake, beignets and more.
All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blackout dates apply). And, right now Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets.
Universal Orlando Resort
Mardi Gras Savings for Florida Residents
Florida Residents can also save up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes. Becoming a Passholder means an entire year to enjoy some of the world’s most exciting and immersive theme park experiences, including incredible events, the upcoming live-action stunt show debuting in spring 2020, The Bourne Stuntacular, as well as Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D, Revenge of the Mummy, the newest epic addition to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – and more.
These offers are available for purchase today through April 2. To take advantage of these offers, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
“Jungle” Jack Hanna will once again be visiting SeaWorld Orlando for a weekend of wild animal shows, autograph signings, and special meet-and-greets on January 25 and 26.
The internationally-known animal expert will share animal facts and travel tales from his adventures around the world during animal shows at Nautilus Theater that are included with your theme park admission with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Show Schedule:
1:00p.m. – 1:40p.m.
Wild Animal Live Show with Jack Hanna
3:00p.m. – 3:40p.m.
Wild Animal Live Show with Jack Hanna
Want to meet Jack? All you need to do is arrive at the Nautilus Theater at least 30 minutes before each show time for a special meet-and-greet.
Florida’s biggest Christian Music festival — Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe — returns on January 24 and 25 for a faith and fun-filled weekend with live music by some of Christian music’s top artists, plus thrilling theme park attractions and entertainment.
Fans will enjoy feature performances by GRAMMY award-winning Christian hip hop recording artist, TobyMac, GRAMMY award-winning contemporary Christian music artist, Chris Tomlin, Dove award-winners, Newsboys, Alternative Rock Band, Switchfoot and more.
An event ticket also provides access to some of Universal Studios Florida’s most entertaining theme park attractions like TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem.
Rock the Universe fans will also enjoy autograph sessions with the genre’s top artists and access to the FanZone presented by Coca-Cola, which features more live performances by up-and-coming acts. And, on Sunday morning, guests can wrap up the weekend with a powerful worship service.
On select weekends in January and February, LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s guests will “become the ninja” with their favorite heroes and villains from the world of NINJAGO as LEGO NINJAGO Days take over the theme park.
The limited-time event will feature ninja-themed activities, new LEGO character meet-and-greets and delicious, kid-friendly treats all at the place #BuiltForKids.
All event activities are included with paid admission or annual pass
Strike a ninja pose with characters Kai, Nya, Llyod, Master Wu and for the first time ever, Zane and P.I.X.A.L.
Achieve a state of zen or show off your wacky ninja moves during the “ninjoga” sessions – a yoga class just for kids
Watch real-life ninjas demonstrate abilities in mastering the elements of Spinjitzu. The Dojo comes to life with kicking, spinning and tumbling in the all-new show, Elemental Masters
Become one with the rhythmic forces of nature in Earth Beats, a live, ninja-inspired music and drumming show
Come dressed as your favorite LEGO NINJAGO hero or villain for a chance to win a LEGO prize
Count every Master Wu hiding among the landmarks of MINILAND USA and drop off an entry form at LEGO Studio Store for a chance to win a LEGO prize pack
The all-new Ninja Kitchen food truck’s menu features soon-to-be favorites including Super Fancy Spring Rolls with Peking duck, pork bao buns and sweet Asian chicken wings
Take your taste buds on a tour around the park with delicious treats including kid-themed candy sushi, chocolate fortune cookies, strawberry cheesecake egg rolls, sensei snack mix and ninja nachos
The annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts at the Walt Disney World Resort will fill the park with a celebration of visual, culinary, and performing arts from around the world daily through February 24, 2020.
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series is the highlight of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts as Broadway stars reprise favorite songs from past performances in award-winning shows three times a day on the American Gardens Theatre stage.
Performances are at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM daily, and you will want to arrive AT LEAST 30 minutes before the concert is set to begin.
This weekend:
Kissy Simmons, Heidi Blickenstaff, Alton Fitzgerald White and Gavin Lee – January 25
Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey – January 26
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
While 2019 was an incredible year of growth for the theme parks of Central Florida, 2020 will bring even more fun to the parks with new attractions, entertainment, restaurants, hotels, and celebrations.
The Bourne Stuntacular, a live-action stunt show, will drop into Universal Studios Florida in Spring 2020 with intense scenes, fistfights, death-defying leaps, and danger at every turn.
During the show you will follow Jason Bourne around the globe as sinister characters pursue him featuring live performers, interactive props, and a gigantic LED screen.
The Universal Orlando Resort will open their eighth hotel, Dockside Inn and Suites at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, in March 2020 with exclusive benefits and rates starting at $85. The resort will have 2,050 guest rooms featuring both standard rooms and 2-Bedroom Suites that can accommodate up to six people.
Making its debut in spring 2020, riders will shiver through family friendly adventures on SeaWorld Orlando’s first launch coaster: Ice Breaker. Named after the icy Arctic summits, Ice Breaker will feature four launches, both backwards and forwards, culminating in a reverse launch into the steepest beyond vertical drop in Florida — a 93-foot tall spike with 100-degree angle.
Aquatica Orlando will open Florida’s first-ever dueling water slide, Riptide Race.
Each team of two will start atop a 68-foot tower before they speed along 650 feet of slide with low walls racing face-to-face through tight loops and accelerations including indoor and outdoor sections.
Riptide Race will have a height requirement of 42 inches to appeal to families with children, and the new slide will be located on the north side of the park next to Banana Beach Cook Out.
Iron Gwazi takes 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. With elements of the former wooden attraction being integrated into the new ride, the journey will include three inversions and 12 airtime hills as it races along more than 4,075 feet of purple steel track. With a 48” height requirement, Iron Gwazi will be an exciting thrill attraction that families can take on together.
Located just 130 kid-steps from the theme park entrance, LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel will feature 150 LEGO-filled rooms, a heated pool, hundreds of LEGO models, in-room LEGO treasure hunts, and exclusive character experiences. Similar to the popular LEGOLAND Hotel, each room will include two separate spaces: a kid’s sleeping area and an adult area.
The five-story hotel will house the pirate-themed Shipwreck Restaurant with family-style dining, Smuggler’s Bar for adult swashbucklers, an entertainment area with kid-friendly nightly programming and LEGO play areas.
Also, with every overnight stay, guests will enjoy a complimentary family-style breakfast. Directly outside the entrance to the hotel, a pirate shipwreck will greet guests and offer a unique photo opportunity.
Pirate Water Ski Show Adventure
After an eight year run, Battle for Brickbeard’s Bounty will close to make way for a brand-new pirate adventure on April 18 with skiing acrobatics, water stunts, pirate humor and more surprises.
PirateFest Weekends
PHOTO / LOCK + LAND, Chip Litherland
During PirateFest guests will learn to walk like a pirate, talk like a pirate, and vacation like a pirate during this three-weekend event.
During the event an exclusive “pirate passport” will outline the resort-wide activities that includes exclusive pirate character meet and greets.
For the first time ever, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will have their own ride-through attraction. Using cutting edge technology, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Disney’s Hollywood Studios will take guests through the movie screen to join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and pals on a wacky adventure with a Goofy conductor at the helm.
Cique du Soleil Show | Disney Springs
Walt Disney Animation Studios stories will come to life in a first-of-its-kind show that combines Disney storytelling with Cirque du Soleil artistry featuring new original acrobatic sequences, dazzling choreography, musical masterpieces and whimsical characters at Disney Springs. Previews will begin March 20, 2020, leading up to the world premiere on April 17.
City Works Eatery & Pour House | Disney Springs
City Works Eatery & Pour House will offer a menu of classic American food with chef-driven twists for lunch and dinner serving over 90 local and global varieties of beers on tap. The 8,632 square foot building will house the restaurant, retail space, expansive seating, high-definition TVs – including a 165-inch screen – and a 1,767 square foot patio.
The space will also exhibit three full-service bars, two of which allow for covered, open air dining along the patio.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue is a fast-casual restaurant where the pit master uses techniques from classic barbecue regions to smoke selections over oak wood, they serve four delicious house-recipe sauces – Spicy Mop Sauce, Sweet BBQ Sauce, Vinegar-based Sauce, and Tangy Mustard Sauce also known as “Carolina Gold” – and serve up a variety of beers, cocktails, and ciders from around the United States.
Awesome Planet | Epcot – The Land
Awesome Planet is an on-screen exploration of our planet that highlights the beauty, diversity and dynamic story of Earth with spectacular nature photography, immersive in-theater effects, and a space sequences created by Industrial Light & Magic.
HarmonioUS | Epcot – World Showcase Lagoon
Walt Disney World Resort
HarmonioUS will debut at Epcot as the largest nighttime theme park spectacular ever created for a Disney park.
It will celebrate how the music of Disney inspires people the world over that features familiar Disney tunes reinterpreted by a diverse group of artists from around the globe. HarmonioUS will light up World Showcase Lagoon and the night sky with floating set pieces, custom-built LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics, lasers, and more.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure | Epcot – France Pavilion
Walt Disney World
Remy’s Ratatouille is similar to the 4-D attraction at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris, where you shrink down in size to join Remy and friends, who have cooked up a delicious feast.
But the adventure goes awry when you are discovered by Chef Skinner who chases you through the sights, sounds, and smells of Gusteau’s famous Parisian restaurant.
La Crêperie de Paris | Epcot – France Pavilion
Walt Disney World
La Crêperie de Paris will feature the cuisine of celebrity chef Jérôme Bocuse, the mastermind behind the pavilion’s Chefs de France brasserie and Monsieur Paul. With a menu inspired by the Brittany region of France, the new location will offer table service dining as well as a quick-service stop for guests craving savory crepes called galettes and sweet crepes.
Beauty and the Beast Sing Along | Epcot – France Pavilion
Walt Disney World
The Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, directed by Don Hahn who was the producer of both the animated and live-action versions of this tale as old as time, will rotate with the classic Impressions de France film in the France Pavilion.
Wonderous China | Epcot – China Pavilion
In the China pavilion, Wondrous China will take guests on a spectacular journey across China, filmed and presented in a completely seamless 360-degree digital format.
Canada Far and Wide | Epcot – Canada Pavilion
Walt Disney World
The film Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360 will debut in January 2020 in the Canada pavilion with new scenes and a new story.
The new restaurant Space 220, an expansion of the Mission: SPACE pavilion in Future World, will be an out-of-this-world culinary experience with the celestial panorama of a space station, including daytime and nighttime views of Earth from 220 miles up.
Disney Genie
Disney Genie is the next step in technology focused on making Walt Disney World vacation planning easier with flexible and customized itineraries geared to your interests in 2020.
Disney Genie will also share real-time theme park tips and updates, recommendations based on your preferences, and will make reservations for the experience in multiple steps for you.
Tobymac, Chris Tomlin, Newsboys and Switchfoot to headline Rock the Universe 2020 at Universal Orlando Resort
Florida’s biggest Christian Music festival — Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe — returns on January 24 and 25 for a faith and fun-filled weekend with live music by some of Christian music’s top artists, plus thrilling theme park attractions and entertainment.
Fans will enjoy feature performances by GRAMMY award-winning Christian hip hop recording artist, TobyMac, GRAMMY award-winning contemporary Christian music artist, Chris Tomlin, Dove award-winners, Newsboys, Alternative Rock Band, Switchfoot and more. The full talent lineup is available at www.RocktheUniverse.com.
An event ticket also provides access to some of Universal Studios Florida’s most entertaining theme park attractions like TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem. Rock the Universe fans will also enjoy autograph sessions with the genre’s top artists and access to the FanZone presented by Coca-Cola, which features more live performances by up-and-coming acts. And, on Sunday morning, guests can wrap up the weekend with a powerful worship service.
Tickets to Florida’s Biggest Christian Music Festival are all on sale now, including a 3-Park Rock Your Weekend Ticket starting at $127.99, plus tax – giving guests access to all three Universal Orlando theme parks for the price of two. Vacationing in one of Universal Orlando’s hotels will add even more perks with exclusive theme park benefits like Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation across the destination.
At the heart of the event, Rock the Universe supports youth group ministries and offers special pricing, exclusive vacation packages, benefits and opportunities to groups. For more details on Rock the Universe 2020 and to purchase tickets, visit www.RocktheUniverse.com.
