Welcome to our Fall and Winter 2023 Theme Park Update with all the new attractions and events at Orlando's word famous Theme Parks, where there is always something new to enjoy!
Happy Fall and Winter!
Fall and Winter is an amazing time to be in Orlando, the main plus is the weather, the sizzling heat of summer is behind us and walking around a theme park is bearable again!
As for what's new in the theme parks, while all the new rides for the year are already open, and most of the new attractions are too, there is a ton of new experiences, and things to do!
Walt Disney World are celebrating the 100th anniversary of Disney, with new experiences, plus new attraction Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is opening at EPCOT.
Plus, lets not forget about the amazing events that are happening in the park for Halloween and the Holiday Season. The theme parks go huge for Halloween and the Holidays, from scary halloween events to magical Christmas celebrations, trust us fall and winter is an amazing time to be in the parks!
Read on for all the details, there is so much happening, have a great fall and winter!
What's New At Orlando's Theme Parks & Attractions For Fall & Winter 2023
Walt Disney World
This fall and winter at Walt Disney World there is so much to experience, Halloween and Holiday celebrations are on another local at Disney! Plus the celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary is underway at EPCOT.
Disney 100
EPCOT is at the center of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World, from September 22 through until December 31.
Have you taken a selfie with any of the Disney100 backdrops located at all four theme parks and Disney Springs? You can also soon snap a photo with a new platinum Mickey Mouse sculpture in World Celebration with Spaceship Earth in the background.
And don’t forget about the dazzling Disney100 Magic Shots and PhotoPass offerings currently available across Walt Disney World.
Mark your calendars because you’ll be able to meet, hug and snap a photo with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their platinum best in the Imagination! pavilion.
They won’t be the only ones sparkling in honor of the celebration. Spaceship Earth will light up each night with special colors and lights accompanied by the Disney100 anthem, a unique rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star.”
Our favorite part of any celebration is the food, and this one won’t disappoint! Sip and savor the tastes of the Disney100 celebration with limited-time food & beverage locations during both the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays!
That’s not the only exclusive food and beverage you’ll be able to enjoy during the celebration! You won’t want to miss out on the purple metallic Mickey Balloon Premium Popcorn Bucket available only at EPCOT during Disney100.
We can’t wait to join the excitement of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World from September 22 to December 31, 2023!
The 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
It’s the tastiest time of the year as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE kicks off at Walt Disney World Resort, and continues through Nov. 18, 2023. That’s 114 days of tempting tastes, live entertainment and festival fun for all ages.
Guests can set out on an international expedition of flavor visiting Global Marketplaces that showcase culinary delights from every corner of the world. Whimsical scavenger hunts and food strolls encourage guests to stop and savor every detail.
And each evening, musical acts from yesterday and today take to the stage during the Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare. Special packages are available that include dinner in one of the park’s world-class restaurants and guaranteed seating for a concert performance.
New Food, Spectacular Sips
This year’s festival will debut with 25 Global Marketplaces – themed locations found throughout the park that offer a cornucopia of bites and sips. Another six Global Marketplaces will appear later during the festival. It all adds up to an unparalleled foodie experience that will delight both seasoned connoisseurs and curious palates.
New at the festival this year, Brew-Wing Lab at the Odyssey invites guests to go on a flavorful adventure featuring the culinary creations – and madcap mishaps – of Muppet Labs.
With Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his trusty partner Beaker as their hosts, festival goers can sample concoctions that include both traditional chicken wings and plant-based options.
Delight in novel flavors like Unnecessarily Spicy, Yet Extremely Tasty Scotch Bonnet Pepper-Curry Wings with Cool Cucumber Yogurt and Peanut Butter and Jelly Sticky Wings.
Here is the must-do's at Walt Disney World this fall and Halloween!
Mickey’s-Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Calling all ghosts and ghouls: This experience is always a must-do!
Treat yourself to an evening full of festive fun with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park beginning Aug. 11. The party, which runs through Nov. 1 on select evenings from 7 p.m. to midnight, includes new and returning spine-chilling fun you won’t want to miss.
Here’s a shriek-peek at what’s new this year:
Adventureland will be taken over by a spirited pirate band and their crew. Be sure to listen for their sea shanties while their shipmates roam the land sharing tales of their explorations at sea.
Get ready for even more chances to “Stand Out” with Max Goof and his Powerline party pack at new pop-up parties throughout Magic Kingdom before this popular crew dances onto Main Street U.S.A. ahead of Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade.
The Seven Dwarfs will be returning to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Even if you are a little bashful, stop by and say hello! They’ll be happy to see you.
Mickey’s Boo-to-You Parade will be more villainous than ever, with favorite foes Ursula, Cruella de Vil, the Queen of Hearts and the newly announced Sanderson Sisters Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabell joining the frightful finale
Festive Fall Decor
Who doesn’t love a cozy-season selfie? Be sure to grab your favorite autumn attire and a pumpkin spice latte and get ready to strike a pose.
From Aug. 10 to Nov. 1, Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom will be filled with pumpkins and scarecrows, and shops will be dressed with fall foliage and garlands, making it the perfect fall photo backdrop.
Haunted Happenings
There are so many ways to experience the fall vibe around Walt Disney World.
At Disney Springs, you can listen to live music on the Waterside Stage from the Squad Ghoul each Friday through Sunday, Sept. 29 to Oct. 29.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, learn from a Disney animator how to draw a Disney villain, whether it’s Bruce from “Finding Nemo;” Kaa and Shere Khan from “The Jungle Book;” Tick-Tock from “Peter Pan;” or Scar from “The Lion King.” The villain animation line-up runs Oct. 1 to Oct. 31 and can be found at the Animation Experience at Conservation Station.
Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine in Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a wickedly fun overlay this fall season that includes a chilling Halloween feast that’s frightfully delightful. Reservations for the festive experience are recommended and can be made on the Walt Disney World website!
At Walt Disney World Resort hotels, be sure to look out for a variety of different fall-themed food and beverage items, including Thanksgiving meals at select resorts. Stay tuned for more tasty details!
2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Get your running shoes ready! The 2023-24 runDisney race season kicks off Nov. 2-5 with the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend.
The popular collection of races includes a 5K, a 10K and a half marathon, as well as the Disney Two Course Challenge (10K and half marathon) and the Post-Race Party.
Character Meet and Greet's
Already this year we saw the return of many fan-favorite character experiences including Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel’s Grotto and Pete’s Silly Sideshow at Magic Kingdom Park, and Moana, from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film, now greets fellow voyagers on Discovery Island at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Pixar Pals have also returned at Disney's Hollywood Studios with a makeover, You can also meet Edna Mode, Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, Frozone, and Sulley from Monsters, Inc at the reimagined Pixar Place.
Also at Hollywood Studios you can meet the live-action version of Ariel at Walt Disney Presents, also for a limited time, a sneak peek and props from the film will be available at the Walt Disney Presents Theater.
Plus, this fall, guests will get the chance to hug long-time EPCOT icon Figment at the Imagination! pavilion.
Also this fall, Mirabel from Disney Animation’s Academy Award-winning film “Encanto” will greet guests in the Fairytale Garden at Magic Kingdom, which will be transformed with whimsical décor inspired by la Familia Madrigal.
TRON Lightcycle / Run
Earlier this year Walt Disney world debuted TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise.
Located in Magic Kingdom Park, it is the fastest coaster attraction in a Disney theme park, alongside its sister coaster at Shanghai Disneyland.
The attraction masterfully blends coaster thrills with speed, visual effects, music and a one-of-a-kind ride system to create an experience like no other.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana
This fall bring even more exciting experiences as part of the multi-year transformation of EPCOT.
Guests can explore the wonders of water when Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana opens.
This fun interactive outdoor trail offers a chance to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way, guests learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality – just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.
World Celebration
Fall will also see completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature different gardens that change with the seasons.
Dreamers Point
It is also where guests will discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.”
CommuniCore Hall
When CommuniCore Hall opens in World Celebration later this year, it will be the center of festival programming throughout the park.
In new renderings, you can see this will be home to a new character greeting location called Mickey & Friends. You’ll be able to meet Mickey Mouse and some of his best pals in this colorful space.
Also located in the World Celebration neighborhood, CommuniCore Hall will be the home of a dynamic exhibition space that will transform with each festival throughout the year, as you can see here in one possibility imagined for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.
Playing with light, shapes and reflections, the architecture of this building was designed by Walt Disney Imagineering to celebrate the legacy of EPCOT and the original CommuniCore buildings.
New Nighttime Spectacular
Plus, a new nighttime spectacular will debut at EPCOT later this year, inviting everyone to gather around World Showcase Lagoon for a show that will unite us through commonalities of the heart in a dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different
The Holidays At Walt Disney World
From mid November through until New Year's Eve everywhere guests look throughout Walt Disney World they will be immersed in festive holiday decor at “The Most Magical Place on Earth.”
Expect Christmas trees seemingly everywhere – more than 1300 at last count, some towering 65 feet!
Theme parks, resorts and the Disney Springs dining, entertainment and retail district are transformed into all that is merry and bright.
Decor highlights include Jolly trimmings and theming throughout Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom Park, while over at EPCOT enjoy dazzling international decor around World Showcase.
Enjoy holiday glamour on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and oversized festive touches in Toy Story Land.
Animal-inspired décor, luminaries on Discovery Island and holiday cheer that expats from Earth have brought to Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and enjoy
nightly snow flurries and Disney-themed Christmas trees at Disney Springs.
The resort hotels get in on the holiday sparkle too, with each resort decked out for the holidays. And a much loved tradition is the larger-than-life gingerbread displays during the holiday season at select locations.
The Holidays At Magic Kingdom
Get wrapped up in all things merry and bright, with sensational sights and holiday delights.
The Magic Kingdom, truly is extra magical during the holidays, with beautiful decor, festive entertainment, and extra jolly eats and treats.
Highlights this holiday season includes:
NEW! Frozen Holiday Surprise – Gather ‘round Cinderella Castle for a dazzling new experience that will illuminate the castle like never before—featuring Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and the Snowgies!
Seasonal Décor – Discover oh-so-jolly holiday trimmings and touches along Main Street, U.S.A. and throughout the park.
Jingle Cruise – During the holiday season, the beloved Jungle Cruise undergoes a yuletide transformation. It’s a festive-yet-familiar adventure from stem to stern!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
One of Walt Disney World's favorite holiday tradition, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is returning to Magic Kingdom Park this year.
On 25 select nights, Nov. 9-Dec. 22, this separately ticketed event will welcome guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom.
Holiday magic is unwrapped with the return of festive favorites like the Christmas extravaganza stage show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration,” the sparkling spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the merry must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” Guests can also look forward to enjoying some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which will use a virtual queue* during the event.
New Year At Magic Kingdom
Each New Year's Eve at Magic Kingdom, the new year starts with a massive bang as the Magic Kingdom’s Fantasy in the Sky fireworks light up the sky high above Lake Buena Vista.
Magic Kingdom show their New Year's Eve Fireworks on December 30, as well as December 31.
The Holidays At EPCOT
Embrace holiday traditions from around the world and delight in the telling of the Christmas story.
Highlights include:
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth – Be immersed in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season from November 24 through December 30, 2023! Savor treasured recipes from around the globe at Holiday Kitchens. And embark on a journey with Holiday Storytellers sharing holiday traditions from around the world.
Candlelight Processional – Hear the stirring story of Christmas presented by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by an orchestra and massed choir.
More Holiday Entertainment – Watch as Holiday Storytellers bring beloved traditions such as Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Lunar New Year and more to life! Witness stories told through music and dance, with performers in traditional costumes—November 24 to December 30, 2023.
The Holidays At Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Embark on yuletide adventures in a park full of entertainment and thrills.
Decor at Hollywood Studios includes SANTA GERTIE! There are also oversized Christmas ornaments in Echo Lake, as well as a giant Christmas tree, and other decor.
You will also discover vintage inspired decor on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards, with snow falling along Sunset Boulevard.
Highlights include:
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Enjoy an unforgettable holiday finale featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf.
Minnie's Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine – See Minnie Mouse and her pals during an oh-so-merry meal. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Toy Story Land Characters in Holiday Attire – See some Pixar pals decked out for the season.
Jollywood Nights
Disney Jollywood Nights is a new, separately ticketed event from 8:30 pm - 12:30 am on 10 select nights November 11 - December 20, 2023.
Commissary Lane will come to life with a lively Latin Street Fair. There will be three Latin bands performing as part of the Fiesta en la Calle (festival in the street) on Commissary Lane. There will be festoon lights along this area, food and beverage, and street performers.
Theater Of The Star
Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy will host a live holiday special at Theater of the Stars with some of their Disney friends.
The spectacular holiday themed musical variety show hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy will feature special appearances from Princess Tiana, Belle, Minnie Mouse, and Mickey Mouse.
Hollywood Brown Derby
Encounter glitz and glamor galore within The Hollywood Brown Derby, where the restaurant will be transformed into a jazz lounge featuring a sing-along piano bar.
Animation Courtyard
Meet Mickey Mouse and the rest of the iconic gang in Animation Courtyard on a hot set with holiday props.
Hollywood Tower Hotel
During Disney Jollywood Nights the park will reawaken the legendary Tip Top Club, where park guests will enter the Twilight Zone... Hollywood, 1938, and enjoy an "other-worldly soiree" at The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard.
Jjoin a party worthy of Hollywood's elite, dance to a ghostly band, enjoy custom food and craft drinks, all the while be immersed in the Tip Top Club from the Tower of Terror.
Hyperion Theater Sing-Along
At the Hyperion Theater, the Frozen Sing-Along will be replaced with a special Nightmare Before Christmas show exclusive to Disney Jollywood Nights.
Echo Lake
Get into the spirit with your fave throwback friends including Powerline Max and Phineas and Ferb at Echo Lake where each meet-and-greet will feature its own Christmas Tree.
Pixar Place
Pixar Place will be transformed with a 1950s theme including food, beverage, and decor.
Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM
End the night with a bang – literally – when the festive favorite “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” returns. This Santa-sized nighttime spectacular, featuring the elf duo Wayne and Lanny from Disney Animation Studio’s “Prep and Landing,” is jam-packed with music, fireworks, special effects, and dazzling state-of-the-art projections.
The Holidays At Disney's Animal Kingdom
Discover the magic of nature—and enjoy seasonal delights along the way. Animal Kingdom features entertainment and decorations throughout the park.
It all begins on Discovery Island, where you’ll be surrounded by a celebration of winter. The village is filled with sparkling white holiday decorations and colorful, animal-inspired luminaries, and throughout the day, the area springs to life with a Merry Menagerie of winter animals, accompanied by serenading musicians as they create a playful atmosphere of festive fun.
Highlights include:
Merry Menagerie – See Discovery Island come to life with artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals—like penguins, reindeer, foxes and polar bears.
Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition – Watch in awe as the park’s magnificent icon shimmers and sparkles each evening, accompanied by a heartwarming musical score. Experience begins at dusk and is subject to change.
Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Adventurer's Outpost – Pose for a photo with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse all decked out in their holiday attire.
The Holidays At Disney's Blizzard Beach
Splash into a watery winter wonderland brimming with cheer.
Built around the mythical tale of a ski resort that melted into warm water, this 66-acre park features “snowy” scenery that’s sure to put you in the holiday spirit.
Holiday highlights include:
Daily “Snowfall” – Watch in awe as snow flurries fall from the sky
Santa Claus – Be on the lookout for jolly ole St. Nick—vacationing in his holiday-finest beachwear
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando are currently working on multiple new attractions, plus a brand new Theme Park - Epic Universe which is due to open in Summer 2025.
Minion Land
For fall this year, the huge news at Universal Orlando is a brand new land is now open and it's bananas!
Minion Land invites guests to step inside the world of the Minions, with unique dining experiences like Minion Cafe, Bake My Day and Pop-a-Nana, plus Minion Land will also be home to new Villain-Con Minion Blast Attraction and More...
From blasting their way to supervillain stardom in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast to savoring tasty dishes at the Minion Cafe to snacking on banana-flavored popcorn at Pop-a-Nana and meeting fan-favorite characters along the way, here are details about the exciting new experiences that await in Minion Land:
Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast
Guests can put their villainous skills to the test in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast – an all-new attraction where guests compete against each other in a fully interactive gaming experience that’s so much fun, it’s a crime. Afterward, guests exit through Evil Stuff, an all-new retail location where they can stock up on Villain-Con and Minions merchandise.
Illumination’s Minion Cafe
It’s Minions in the kitchen, mischief in the dining room, and tons of tasty food at the new Illumination’s Minion Cafe – the marquee dining location within Minion Land. T
his immersive new eatery offers something for every palate in a highly-entertaining dining experience that features three themed areas designed after beloved Minions Kevin, Stuart, Bob and Otto: the Kitchen – where guests will get a glimpse of the equipment and gear the Minions have used to whip up the cafe’s menu; the Breakroom – where guests can dine in the Minions’ break space that includes everything from “Office Safety Tips” to a vending machine stocked with mischievous items; and the Dining Room – a vibrant space adorned with colorful artwork courtesy of the Minions and more. Guests can also enjoy their meal on an outdoor patio that overlooks the fun of Minion Land.
Bake My Day
Topped with a massive pink cupcake that’s visible from anywhere in the land, Bake My Day is a whimsical retail location and bakery featuring a selection of Minion-themed sweet treats, including cupcakes, macarons, s’mores and more, along with exclusive Minion-inspired merchandise like apparel, plush, drinkware, accessories, keychains and more.
Pop-A-Nnana
Banana-flavored popcorn, anyone? This walkup location features sweet and savory popcorn inspired by the Minions’ love for bananas. Here, guests may also find an assortment of cute popcorn buckets, including the Minion Selfie bucket.
Freeze Ray Pops
Guests can cool off with a visit to Freeze Ray Pops, featuring a variety of colorful popsicles inspired by Gru, the Minions and Vector – along with beverages.
Illumination Theater
Guests can meet, greet and interact with beloved characters like the Minions, Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes, plus new additions from the hit film “Sing” – Rosita, Gunter and Johnny – at an outdoor Illumination Theater facade.
Guests can also discover murals, photo ops and more throughout Minion Land that celebrate additional characters from popular Illumination films.
Halloween Horror Nights
Yes, Halloween Horror Nights is back for 2023, with Halloween Horror Nights 32 returning to terrify guests at Universal Orlando Resort from September 1 through November 4, 2023.
This year, HHN 32 will feature 10 terrifying haunted houses, 5 sinister scare zones and one explosive show!
So horror fans, are you ready to delve deep into what horrors await at this years event?
The world’s premier Halloween event celebrates its 32nd year with a record-breaking 48 nights of immersing guests into the eeriest of experiences that could only be endured at Halloween Horror Nights – including a circus that’s spiraled into chaos, the long-awaited emergence of Halloween Horror Nights legend, Dr. Oddfellow, and a dark, resurrected story that delves into the haunting history of Universal attractions past.
In the midst of the screams, guests can experience a disturbingly entertaining live show, an all-new Tribute Store, take a bite out of the horror with scary-good food and beverage, and so much more.
Here’s a glimpse of what’s lingering in the fog at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2023.
Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Haunted Houses
The beating heart of Halloween Horror Nights is the haunted houses. Every year, Universal’s Entertainment team brings to life the biggest names in horror from movies, TV shows, video games, and urban legends in twisted, maze-like haunted houses.
They also create their own original storylines that have given birth to iconic characters over the years. There’s no better way to celebrate Halloween than walking through your very own real-life horror movie where you’ve been cast in the role of playing the victim.
This year's all-new terrifying haunted houses, include “The Exorcist: Believer,” inspired by the new Universal Pictures film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment, “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” based on the popular USA & SYFY series, and “Universal Monsters: Unmasked,” inspired by Universal’s legacy of iconic cinematic monsters.
Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Scarezones
As the sun sets on Universal Studios Florida and ominous clouds fill the sky, Dr. Oddfellow steps out of Halloween Horror Nights past to fill the streets with hordes of taunting scareactors in five all-new scare zones.
During Halloween Horror Nights, there is nowhere safe to escape to in the theme park. The streets transform into demented scare zones that are swarming with creatures and monsters that are birthed from the darkness like hellish demons, morbid deformities, and the undead.
You are quite literally walking through real-life nightmares. Oh, and watch out for the roaming chainsaw hordes!
Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Entertainment
Guests can enjoy the all-new disturbingly entertaining show, Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream, that features a new dreamer confronting the creature that’s been turning her dreams into nightmares...
Let your nightmares burn out of control as the pyro and aerial performers fire you up to the beat of metal and electronica.
Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Tribute Store
Each year Universal Orlando debuts a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store, an elaborately themed shopping experience to purchase the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise and treats,
This years all-new Tribute Store will see guests enter a mysterious NYC Comic Book Shop and experience the “Tribute to Terror” by stepping into the pages of this original, terrifying, horror comic book.
If you plan to visit the Tribute Store it can get busy, so if possible visit during regular theme park hours when it is also open, This allows you to save time and spend more time in the houses and scare zones.
Dead Coconut Club
Guests can enjoy a drink at the Red Coconut Club as it will once again transform to the Dead Coconut Club donning a new theme and menu.
When guests want to take a bite out of the horror, they can enjoy a monstrous menu of all-new food & beverage items, including Bloody Campground Poutine, El Pastor Torta and Sour Apple Pie Funnel Fries, in addition to returning fan-favorites like Pizza Fries.
Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar
New this year, Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar will feature themed libations within an ominous nightclub vibe, photo opportunities, and more.
Halloween Horror Nights At Universal Hotels
For the first time ever, the fog has spread to all eight of Universal Orlando’s hotels with exclusive activations and experiences for hotel guests inspired by this year’s event, including Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort’s exclusive “Chucky’s Twisted Playground” photo illusion experience based on the USA and SYFY series, plus, the Universal Monsters Gallery of Legends lobby photo opportunities in all other hotel lobbies and more.
For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando has a ton of fun for Halloween and Christmas!
Howl-O-Scream
Returning for its third year on September 8, Howl-O-Scream runs select nights through October 31, and this year Howl-O-Scream isn’t just back at SeaWorld. It’s bigger and better than ever with ALL-NEW terrors.
Haunted Houses
Hear every bloodcurdling shriek. Feel every spine-tingling terror. Get ready for the haunted houses of SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. There’s no turning back as you brave dark passageways and round dimly lit corners, hoping you can avoid what’s lurking in the depths. The legends are true, the fear is real, and the only way out is through.
Terrifying Shows
Even amid so much mayhem, the show must go on. Duck inside and be mesmerized by a raucous, high-energy musical dance show. Or witness the outdoor spectacle as the ominous story of the one who has emerged from lake unfolds before you. Or take a break and hear adventure stories from the famed siren hunter, from the horrific to hilarious.
Scare Zones & Roaming Haunts
There are no safe zones. There are no places to hide. The scares are everywhere, and the roaming haunts never weaken. Get ready for immersive terror at every turn during SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. Stay alert and be prepared for anything, because you never know what’s waiting up ahead (or creeping up behind you).
The Siren
Beware the chilling legend of the Siren, a ghastly creature that haunts the depths of the sea. These otherworldly beings, with their seductive allure and horrifying beauty, lurk amidst the rocky isles and treacherous cliffs along haunted coastlines.
Rides & Experiences
Have you ever ridden your favorite attraction in the dark? It wouldn’t be a SeaWorld visit without a ride or two, but it wouldn’t be Howl-O-Scream without a dose of nighttime terror. Meanwhile, sinister interactive surprises await at your favorite bar haunts. After nightfall, every moment of fun comes with a splash of fear.
Halloween Spooktacular
SeaWorld’s Spooktacular is back with fun surprises, candy, costumes and more! Kids love trick-or-treating (with purchase of reusable bag) during this daytime event as they explore the decorated trail and meet colorful characters. This year be sure to check out all the immersive family Spooktacular Festivities and plan your visit this fall. SeaWorld Spooktacular runs select days, Sept. 16 – Oct. 31, and is included with park admission.
Trick-Or-Treat Trail and Halloween Fun
Discover all the Halloween family fun this fall from our not-too-spooky Sesame Street Halloween Parade to our Story time with Big Bird, there is so much to do and see during SeaWorld’s Spooktacular.
Sesame Street Halloween Parade
This colorful, musical, and show-stopping parade will get the whole family in the Halloween spirit. Dance and play along as Elmo, The Count, Big Bird and friends dress up for Halloween with surprises galore, so get ready for not-too-spooky Halloween fun!
Halloween Storytime with Big Bird
Gather around Big Bird’s nest to hear some of his favorite Halloween stories during Storytime with Big Bird, happening at select times throughout the day.
Pumpkin Garden and Storyteller
Wander through the Pumpkin Garden to see how many friendly pumpkin fish you can spot. During your travels, you may even run into the Pumpkin Queen as she reads stories in the garden, happening at select times throughout the day.
Meet a Mermaid
Meet our friendly Halloween mermaids each event day in this immersive experience in the Key West area.
Halloween Cookie Decorating and Kids Crafts
Kids will love decorating fun fall and Halloween crafts. Visit the area between Sesame Street Land and Wild Arctic on Spooktacular event days from 12PM - 4PM to participate. Crafts are included with park admission. An additional cookie decorating kit is available for purchase.
Scarecrow Halloween Dance Party
Join our scarecrows for a kid-friendly Halloween dance party! Music and fun fill the air in the Journey to Atlantis Plaza only at SeaWorld Spooktacular.
Guy Harvey Weekend
November 25 - 26
Join Guy Harvey for meet-and-greets, autographs, photo opportunities, and more.
Christmas Celebration
Select dates, Nov. 10 - Dec. 31
This is where holiday traditions are made, with delicious food, stunning live shows, delightful holiday shopping and joyous entertainment.
More details will be announced soon!
New Year's Eve
December 31
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld with a spectacular fireworks display offering viewing areas around the park.
More details will be announced soon!
Pipeline: The Surf Coaster
Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, debuted earlier this year at SeaWorld Orlando, feel the awesome power of the ocean in a whole new way on Pipeline, the first-of-its-kind surf coaster. Experience the rush of launching 110 feet up at 60 mph and feeling every bank and curve as though you’re really riding the waves, thanks to innovative dynamic seats that gives you unparalleled freedom of movement.
Aquatica Orlando
Fiesta Aquatica
Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with us! This fun-filled, festive event happens Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 9 – Oct. 15 and is included with park admission. More event details coming soon.
Beach Nights at Aquatica
From thrilling slides like Riptide Race to relaxing waterways like Loggerhead Lane and more, we’ve got splashy surprises for the whole family. Aquatica’s pools and waterways are even heated to maintain the perfect temperature throughout your day during “Florida winter.”
Oct28 a day of fun in the water stay late for family-friendly movies and games on Orlando’s largest beach! Bring a blanket or sit on one of our beach chairs and enjoy a different movie every weekend. Fresh popcorn, delicious food, snacks, hot chocolate, and fountain drinks will be available for purchase at Kura’s Beachside Panini. For additional Polynesian vibes, visit the new Trader Turi’s Tiki Bar for a selection of specialty cocktails, frozen favorites, adult hot chocolate and more. Select nights, October 28 - December 23.
Turi’s Kid Cove
The ALL-NEW Turi’s Kid Cove is now open at Aquatica Orlando!
Grab your best buddies and get ready to splish, splash, spray, and play in this ALL-NEW water adventure attraction filled with watering palms, tipping buckets, spraying jets, water bobbles, and more. Plus, your kids can grab a tube and glide into fun on the ALL-NEW Tamariki Twirl, a kid-sized wave slide designed just for them!
Other new attraction in the ALL-NEW Turi’s Kid Cove includes the slides, Zippity Zappity, Slider Rider, Racer Chaser, and Slippity Dippity.
For more info on Aquatica Orlando check out the official website.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Howl-O-Scream returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, on select nights from September 8 through October 31, 2023, with the event once again taking over the entire park, with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows and more.
Haunted Houses
Dark minds have been brewing new ways to terrify those brave enough to enter our sinister haunted houses with new unsuspecting scares.
Scare Zones & Unpredictable Hordes
The scares are everywhere as new terrors lurk in every corner of the park. Experience screams & frights at any moment as you make your way through several scare zones. Plus, with roaming hordes, horror awaits at every twist and turn.
Pulse-Pounding Attractions
With exhilarating coasters and thrilling attractions, guests can take on their favorite rides in the dark in between the frights and scares of Howl-O-Scream. Bring your fears to new heights on Iron Gwazi & SheiKra, then let the adrenaline rush as you launch into the shadows of Cheetah Hunt & Tigris.
Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. This event contains intense adult content such as violence, gore, and blood. Oh yes it does...
The Residence: Home For The Holidays is a fan favorite house at Howl-O-Sceam, where merriment turns murderous at a suburban family home, and this year Christmas arrives earlier than ever at The Residence, with all-new horrors eager to be unwrapped, but will you survive this silent night.
In addition to The Residence: Home For The Holidays returning, Busch Gardens have already revealed that Ms. Stranglewood is back for more haunts this year, and has something sinister waiting behind every corner.
Also coming to Howl-O-Scream this year is an all new scare zone, Big Ed's Demolition Derby, which features a rather sinister Big Ed!
Step into the twisted and adrenaline-fueled world of Big Ed's Demolition Derby. He has pulled together some of the roughest, toughest, and meanest baddies from all over Howl-O-Scream and brought them here to compete— but there’s always room for some surprise guests. Step up and see how long you can survive and navigate this automotive nightmare.
Another brand new scare zone for 2023 is Sin City Zombies,
On the outskirts of the Vegas strip lies a small town that is home to some of the best entertainers to ever live, and is overrun by zombies who run rampant.
Try your luck and hope your number wins because this is one town you don’t want to lose in.
Also new to this years Howl-O-Scream is a brand new haunted house, D.H. Baggums, Circus of Fear.
Come one, come all, to the most terrifying show you’ve ever seen! D.H. Baggum brings you all his monstrosities that are sure to make your spine tingle and your blood run cold!
As unsuspecting patrons walked the midway, D.H. would capture them and take them backstage to carry out his evil plan. as you wander the midway, watch out for D.H. and his crew. don’t get distracted by the magic— you might just be the next FREAK to take the stage!
Are you brave enough to be amongst the first to experience the circus of fear?
Grab your tickets now, before it's too late!!
Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular
At Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular, from September 9 to October 31, guests will step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training!
A costume parade, story time and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular will be casting magical spells, daily from 12 – 4 pm at the Festival Walkway.
Christmas Town
Celebrate the holidays at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and holiday-inspired culinary delights.
Daily from November 13 through January 7, celebrate the year with holiday cheer & gather with family and friends to create merry memories. Experience the joy of the season up close with animal encounters, thrilling rides, holiday inspired culinary delights and festive shows like Christmas on Ice. Keep the holiday spirit shining bright from day to night with millions of twinkling lights and dazzling fireworks, plus heartwarming moments with Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer!
Santa's North Pole Experience
Join our jolly elves as they guide guests to see Santa in his workshop as he prepares for the holiday season. Great for Christmas photo opportunities, this fun and festive activity is perfect for making memories with your family and friends.
Festive Shows & Entertainment
Busch Gardens beams with twinkling lights and yuletide shows during Christmas Town! Be captivated by world-class ice skaters, festive fireworks on select nights, and even your favorite Sesame Street characters with special Christmas entertainment.
Rudolph's Winter Wonderland
Don't miss this photo opportunity and meet with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends at Rudolph's Winter Wonderland.
Holly Jolly Express
All aboard for Christmas Cheer! This locomotive is on track to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with favorite songs of the season and wild views of Busch Gardens' 65-acre veldt, home to giraffes, rhinos, zebras and more.
Holiday Dining & Shopping
Indulge in culinary delights featuring savory treats, festive sweets, and holiday beverages at select locations throughout the park before finishing your Christmas shopping with the perfect gift from one of our various storefronts.
Serengeti Flyer
Busch Gardens Tampa introduced a swinging new attraction for 2023, Serengeti Flyer which is the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, a screamin’ swing.
With each swing, riders soar higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain while experiencing multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the Earth.
Serengeti Flyer features twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher reaching speeds of 68 mph and a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak.
Guests are seated back-to-back in rows of 10 across two gondolas, allowing for 40 guests to experience the ride at once.
LEGOLAND Florida
The LEGO DREAMZzz Universe has arrives at LEGOLAND Florida just in time for fall and winter.
The LEGO DREAMZzz Universe is bringing lots of fun to LEGOLAND Florida, including a brand new 4D movie, scavenger hunt, and you can meet two brand new characters, as Mateo and Izzy have stepped through the portal into the park!
Inside the cinema in Fun Town you can follow the adventure of Mateo and Izzie as they travel through the dream worlds in an all-new 4D movie, LEGO Dreamzz 4D Movie.
Also new to the park, everyone can join the Dream Chasers on a Scavenger Hunt!
Fantastical creatures have escaped from the LEGO DREAMZzz Universe and are hiding across the park! Grab this scavenger hunt from the LEGO Factory store to take on the quest to locate each creature.
Plus, guests can create their own wild creature! Build your very own dream creature and bring your wildest dreams to life. Check out the video for more details!
Brick-or-Treat
Beginning September 16, on select days through until October 29, monsters are taking over LEGOLAND Florida with new shows, an all-new fireworks show, new experiences, tons of candy, spooktacular limited time food offerings, and never-before-seen exclusive LEGO characters!
Highlights include 4D Movie: The Great Monster Chase: Laugh along in this 4D adventure filled with special effects as four tweens try to sneak their way into a monster party.
Live entertainment will include V.I.M. Dance Party Hosted by Lord Vampyre: Bring your monstrous moves and ghoulish grooves to this interactive dance party, plus The UnbeLEAFable Halloween Night: Something ‘unbeLEAFable’ happens when a strange plant grows out of control. Packed with energetic singing and dancing, this musical mystery is fun for the entire family… AND features a surprise appearance from the newest monster in town – LEGO Plant Monster!
The Jammin' Jacks will return this year: Get ready to rock out with the spirits of Brick or Treat as our LEGO jack-o-lantern trio comes to life to sing some of your favorite spooky kooky tunes!
The dates that this years event is taking place is as follows:
September 16, 23, 30 October 7 - 8, 14 - 15, 21 - 22, and 28 - 29
This AWESOME Halloween spectacular is included with general park admission & select Annual Passes so let’s get ready to MONSTER PARTY at LEGOLAND Florida!
Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida
There is no better time to add a little LEGO magic to your family vacation and build memories + traditions to last a lifetime.
Highlights include:
Visit the Holiday Village Postal Service to send your letters to LEGO Santa,
Rock around the giant LEGO tree to holiday tunes,
Take “elfies” with your favorite holiday LEGO Characters,
And don't miss ringing in the new year with colorful bursts of LEGO bricks fireworks over Lake Eloise at an earlier, kid-friendly, celebration time.
Seasonal Shows & Traditional Treats
Check out our delightfully dazzling holiday shows, Santa approved of course, throughout the park all season long! Also, why not try some holly jolly themed food and drinks too?
Kids New Years Eve
Join in the festivities and celebrate the New Year early with rides, activities, and a whole lot of fun. Celebrate with an early fireworks display illuminating the sky and welcoming in 2024!
For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day.
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