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No Tricks, Just Treats as SeaWorld dares employees of select theme parks and zoos to experience USA TODAY’s #1 Theme Park Halloween Event SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream with a Half-Price Ticket! SeaWorld is introducing a new offer that is especially scary this Halloween, daring employees of select theme parks and zoos to experience USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for the Best Theme Park Halloween Event in 2023, SeaWorld Howl-o-Scream, with a tempting half-price ticket. The offer to face new frights and take thrills to new heights at SeaWorld is valid for employees of Universal parks in Florida and California, Six Flags parks in Texas and California, the San Antonio Zoo, Knott’s Berry Farm theme park in California, and the San Diego Zoo. Howl-O-Scream is underway now in every SeaWorld park coast to coast, located here in Orlando, and at San Antionio, and San Diego. “Like Howl-O-Scream, this offer is designed to shock, bring out the screams, and ultimately thrill,” said Chris Finazzo, Chief Commercial Officer of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. “We eagerly await our competitors to come and experience what the #1 Halloween event for theme parks is all about. For the brave employees at other parks that accept our dare to scare, there is no turning back from the terror that awaits. From all new and fan favorite haunted houses, to death defying thrills and sinister shows, there is no better place to be this Halloween than SeaWorld.” Howl-O-Scream is a Terrifying Treat with Unique Theming in Each Park Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is bigger and more terrifying than ever before with all-new houses, seven scare zones, three live shows and five themed bars that will make guests scream in fright. At SeaWorld San Antonio, Howl-O-Scream is Texas’ biggest and scariest Halloween event with an all-new haunted house, Bunny Bradley’s Ice Cream Shoppe that serves up twisted treats that have been sprinkled with “special ingredients”, plus five additional haunted houses, seven frightful terror-tories, five BOOze bars, and menacing shows, like the all-new Sirens Song. In San Diego, SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream features the most haunted houses, scares and screams in the city. The screamtastic event is full of never-before-seen haunted houses, scare zones, vile vignettes and live performances. New reimagined haunted houses fuel your worst nightmares, including the 3D Circus of the Damned, where fears will come to life in a chaotic cursed circus. Halloween fans can expect new sounds, lighting, special effects, more scare performers, and more surprises at every turn. Parental discretion is advised as Howl-O-Scream contains amplified scares that may not be suitable for children. To redeem this limited-time offer, employees of eligible competitors must show their active employee ID at the SeaWorld front gate. One ticket can be purchased per employee for 50 percent off the ticket price. This offer is subject to change and is valid on Howl-O-Scream event dates through October 31. Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando This year, Howl-O-Scream is back with vengeance at SeaWorld Orlando, as the park is offering a bigger and more terrifying line-up for 2023 featuring all-new houses, seven scare zones, three live shows and five themed bars that will make guests scream in fright. At the scariest haunt in town, guests will be immersed in terror as they may find themselves in horrifying houses, eager to escape. Howl-O-Scream Orlando is a separately ticketed event. Right now, guests can save over 60% on Howl-O-Scream tickets during a limited-time Slash Sale. Tickets start at $44.99. Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld San Antonio At SeaWorld San Antonio, Howl-O-Scream has transformed the peaceful park guests once knew into something sinister. During Texas’ biggest and scariest Halloween event, nightfall has awakened hundreds of creatures roaming terror-tories and lurking the halls of haunted houses (all free with park admission). Howl-O-Scream resurfaces with an all-new haunted house, Bunny Bradley’s Ice Cream Shoppe that serves up twisted treats that have been sprinkled with “special ingredients”, plus five additional haunted houses, seven frightful terror-tories, five BOOze bars, and menacing shows, like the all-new Sirens Song. Howl-O-Scream San Antonio is included with park admission. For a limited-time, guests who purchase a 2024 season pass receive free admission for the rest of 2023, including unlimited access to Howl-O-Scream. Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld San Diego SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream features the most haunted houses, scares and screams in San Diego. The screamtastic event is full of never-before-seen haunted houses, scare zones, vile vignettes and live performances. New reimagined haunted houses fuel your worst nightmares, including the 3D Circus of the Damned, where fears will come to life in a chaotic cursed circus. Halloween fans can expect new sounds, lighting, special effects, more scare performers, and more surprises at every turn. Howl-O-Scream San Diego is a separately ticketed event. Right now, save over 50% during a limited-time slash sale. Tickets start at $39.99. Parental discretion is advised as Howl-O-Scream contains amplified scares that may not be suitable for children. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Join the heart pounding excitement of high-performance engines and true horse power for the Friday Night Muscle Car Show. Old Town in Kissimmee will celebrate true muscle power during the 12th Anniversary of the Friday Night Muscle Car Show & Cruise on November 3, 2023. The popular entertainment district will welcome car cruisers, enthusiasts, and admirers of all ages to celebrate show-quality muscle and high performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars will be on display beginning at 3:00pm and then line up for a very special Anniversary cruise down Old Town’s Main Street at 8:30pm. Don’t miss out on this special 12th Anniversary of the Friday Night Muscle Car Show and Cruise at Old Town! Special Commemorative License Plates will be given out to each participating car, while supplies last. “There’s no one who does specialty car events like Old Town,” said Thearon Scurlock, Vice President and General Manager. “Not only do we have car cruisers and car enthusiasts who have been coming for many, many years, but we also have new cruisers and new families who visit from all over the world every week who make the Old Town experience so special.” Eclectic and unexpected…one of Florida’s premier Rock & Roll dance bands, The Machine Gun Kellys will be performing live throughout the evening. Built in 1986, Old Town is the recreation of a classic Florida town at the turn of the century featuring historical architecture and distinctive storefronts. Located on U.S. 192 in Kissimmee, Old Town boasts over 60 unique shops, themed restaurants and bars, rides, weekly car shows, and family-friendly attractions. For over 34 years, Old Town has been a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike looking for the simple pleasures of classic American fun. For the full schedule of monthly events at Old Town, go to www.myoldtownusa.com. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

The Disney Dreamers Academy runs through Sunday and is a mentorship program hosted annually by Walt Disney World Resort that fosters the dreams of 100 Black students and teens from underrepresented communities around the country America’s teens have a couple of more weeks to try to dream big next year at Walt Disney World Resort. On October 31, applications close for Disney Dreamers Academy, a four-day career workshop designed for Black teens and students from underrepresented communities. Anyone interested in applying or nominating a student can do so now at www.DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Students selected for the program next spring will attend in-depth workshops in a variety of disciplines led by well-known celebrities, educators, business executives, community leaders and Disney cast members. These workshops introduce Disney Dreamers to diverse career paths within business, entertainment, sciences and more, including career opportunities within The Walt Disney Company, as well as provides them with valuable life tools, leadership skills, effective communication techniques and networking strategies. The Disney Dreamers Academy program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities by encouraging the next generation to think big and to use what they learn in their relentless pursuit of their dreams in hopes of making a difference in the lives of others. “We’re gearing up to bring the next generation of big dreamers to Walt Disney World for this life-changing program that has been inspiring students across America to reach for their dreams and providing them with some of the tools they need to make those dreams a reality,” said Disney Signature Experiences vice president Tracey D. Powell, who is the program’s executive champion. “Any who hasn’t applied for this program already should apply or be nominated today so they can join the hundreds of former Disney Dreamers who have moved one step closer to their futures.” Applications are open to U.S. high school students, ages 13 to 19. A distinguished panel of leaders will evaluate the applications and selected participants will be announced in early 2024. The 100 selected students will receive an all-expense-paid trip along with one parent or guardian to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to experience a combination of inspiration, education and fun at The Most Magical Place on Earth. For more information, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. About Disney Dreamers Academy: Established by Walt Disney World in 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy’s mission is to inspire teens from Black and underrepresented communities to dream beyond imagination by providing life-long access to personalized support for the Disney Dreamer, their caregivers and community through insightful content and uplifting experts, mentors and sponsors. Each year, 100 high school students are awarded a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to experience this four-day immersive and transformational program. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

See the date for the annual I-Drive District Holiday Tree Lighting at ICON Park! Kick off the Holiday season with a memorable evening of family fun courtesy of the International Drive Improvement District and ICON Park. Taking place at ICON Park, check out how I-Drive dazzles with a glittering lighting ceremony of the spectacular 50-ft Holiday Tree sponsored by the I-Drive District. Enjoy special performances, singing and dancing, free 3D holiday glasses and much more! Come dine, shop, explore and be merry on I-Drive. More details to come soon! Check out I-Drive District for more information. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Get ready, North America, because in the spring of 2024, Our Last Night is bringing you a show you won't want to miss! This is not your typical tour announcement, as for the first time in their career, Our Last Night are playing a covers only set – a truly unique and one-time-only experience. The tour will take to the stage at Hard Rock Live Orlando on May 24, 2024. Special guests, Broadside and Normandie will be supporting the band throughout the tour. Sign-up for early access to tickets now. Our Last Night was formed in 2004 by brothers Matt and Trevor Wentworth along with childhood friend Tim Molloy. Combining huge melodic choruses, intense breakdowns, and wide ranging vocals they have created their own brand of post-hardcore. Lyrically the band strive to create a message of hope throughout all of their records. With no label and a massive fan base Our Last Night's DIY approach of self-producing their albums and music videos has become a model for those seeking to make a living doing what they love. Their unique sound and ability to create rock solid covers of todays hits has solidified their success while launching their original music into new realms. Don’t miss them on their Covers Only Tour 2024 playing in major cities in North America! For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

SeaWorld Orlando celebrates a historic milestone in conservation, as only the second aquarium in the world to have a successful smalltooth sawfish birth, setting a new standard for expert care and conservation efforts. SeaWorld Orlando proudly announces the birth of three smalltooth sawfish pups, marking a historic achievement in global conservation for this endangered species as the only aquarium in the United States showcasing smalltooth sawfish and the second worldwide to have a successful birth. The newborns include two females and one male, born on July 11, 2023, and each measured approximately two feet in length. Following their birth, the pups underwent a comprehensive examination, and continue to receive regular check-ups to ensure their sustained health and expected developmental progress. This milestone underscores SeaWorld’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and saving species from extinction. Dr. Joseph Gaspard, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld Orlando said, “The birth of smalltooth sawfish at SeaWorld Orlando marks a significant achievement, as we become the second aquarium globally to have this success. This is an extraordinary success in the realm of sawfish conservation, and it is our privilege to provide world-class care for this critically endangered species. The birth of these smalltooth pups allows for a greater understanding of how to turn the tide on the declining sawfish populations and spread the message of education to our millions of guests that visit each year.” "The birth of smalltooth sawfish in captivity for just the second time, and the first within the United States, is historic. These young sawfish will provide a great opportunity for researchers and aquarists to learn more about juvenile growth and development. But equally important, this will be a chance for the public to witness and develop an understanding of these majestic creatures. It is through these opportunities that greater conservation can be achieved", says Adam Brame, Sawfish Recovery Coordinator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA). Despite their shark-like appearance, smalltooth sawfish are categorized as rays, showcasing gills and mouths on their undersides. Named for their saw-like rostrum, these creatures inhabit tropical seas and estuaries in the Atlantic Ocean, favoring shallow coastal waters, and occasionally venturing into freshwater river systems, notably in Florida's coastal areas. Born fully developed at a length of approximately 2 feet, the characteristic sawfish teeth are covered by a thick material that dissolves within a few days/weeks. This adaptation protects both the mother and other siblings while in utero. While these younglings continue their growth, they’ll receive meticulous care from SeaWorld’s Aquarium Team at the Aquarium Health Center, remaining behind the scenes as they grow and develop under world-class supervision. Smalltooth Sawfish at SeaWorld Orlando Two adult smalltooth sawfish reside at SeaWorld Orlando and have been housed at SeaWorld parks since the 1980s. These sawfish currently reside in the 700,000-gallon Shark Encounter main habitat and boast the title of the largest fish in the park. In late May, SeaWorld Orlando’s dedicated aquarist and veterinary teams discovered through ultrasound that the female sawfish was pregnant. Recognizing the significance of this development, the female sawfish was relocated to the Aquarium Health Center, an environment where she was able to be closely monitored through the birth of the pups. SeaWorld Orlando is honored to have facilitated the pregnancy and birth in its indoor aquarium, with generated lighting and pristine saltwater conditions. This showcases the unwavering dedication of the aquarium team in providing the best care to aquatic animals, while encouraging marine life conservation and education. Conservation of Sawfish Smalltooth sawfish are critically endangered, being the first marine fish to be protected by the Endangered Species Act twenty years ago, in 2003, following a significant decline in population from habitat loss and unintended capture by fishers. This is the only species of sawfish to be found in United States waters, making the birth of the three pups even more meaningful. Entities that house sawfish, including SeaWorld Orlando, have a serious interest in gaining a greater understanding of all sawfish reproduction to strengthen their impact in helping the declining population. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has created the Sawfish Species Survival Plan to help facilitate the future reproductive success of these animals. SeaWorld is committed to educating and inspiring the next generation of conservationists through its park experiences. It is also committed to animal conservation outside its parks through partnerships and the SeaWorld Conservation Fund that has donated more than $20 million to research conservation projects. Guests visiting the park can also play an important role in conservation. A portion of every visit goes directly toward SeaWorld rescue, rehabilitation, and marine animal conservation efforts. Guests can also donate in the park or online to the SeaWorld Conservation Fund that supports important third-party conservation research. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Back for its fourth year, the enchanting Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Downtown Orlando is back bigger and more interactive than ever before! Orlando’s gorgeous 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens will once again be transform into a stunning winter wonderland featuring a million dazzling lights, shining forests, magical displays, with music and beautiful sculptures. Creative City Project's much loved Dazzling Nights, will be shining bright throughout the holidays from November 24, 2023 - January 6, 2024. This year, will see the return of some of your favorite light displays and holiday celebrations from years past. Plus, a brand new, large-scale light show. The event at Leu Gardens is a family-friendly adventure giving guests the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable, three-quarter mile, interactive holiday experience that takes visitors into a stunning, winter wonderland. Don't forget your phone as there will be hundreds of opportunities to capture the perfect insta shot, and TikTok video! This year’s highlights… Some of your returning favorites!! Beautiful, Moroccan Lanterns hanging from the trees overhead Fun, interactive lights that light up when you jump on them A beautiful, bright, 70’ long light tunnel A play area of giant, 8’ tall, rollable ornaments A walk of thousands of laser lights And snow all night long Plus brand new experiences : A stunning nighttime show with 100, 10’ tall beacons of light A dazzling, 30’ tall tree of thousands of shimmering, gold sequins A fun, Wintery Florida display created by the Leu Gardens Horticulture Team And more, including sweet treats and holiday (and adult) beverages. For more info and to purchase tickets here is the official website. Tickets must be purchased for a specific time and date, and are not available at the door. $25 per adult, $22 for children. Children 2 and under enter free. For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

Professional volleyball takes center stage in Central Florida with games slated for UCF Campus. Addition Financial Arena has been announced as the home venue for Orlando’s new Pro Volleyball Team, The Orlando Valkyries. The Valkyries will begin play during the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation season in January. Situated on the main campus of the University of Central Florida (UCF), Addition Financial Arena is widely regarded as a top-notch, multi-purpose facility in a prime location. The arena is home to the UCF Knights men’s and women’s basketball teams, along with an ongoing slate of concerts, family shows, and community events. The arena is 252,000 square feet and will have a capacity of over 10,000 for volleyball. "We're excited to welcome the Pro Volleyball Federation to Addition Financial Arena," says OVG360's Joe Imbriaco, General Manager of Addition Financial Arena. "Volleyball is among the sports where the in-person experience is unique with its fast pace and action, and we can't wait to welcome fans to watch our Orlando team." The collaboration between the Orlando Valkyries and Addition Financial Arena marks a significant step forward for the sport of volleyball in the region. As the team prepares for its inaugural season, fans can anticipate an affordable family environment, a competitive team, an engaging fan experience, and a first-class venue to host the matches. “The Valkyries are honored to have the opportunity to showcase our team and play our matches out of Addition Financial Arena,” said George Manias, Orlando Valkyries President, and Chief Operating Officer. “The venue has proven to be first class, fan-friendly, and understands what it takes to operate high-caliber events, such as what we plan on bringing to the area. I couldn’t be happier with this venue and all we are able to do within it.” The Valkyries’ inaugural season schedule is anticipated to be released in the coming weeks. Sign up for the Addition Financial Arena Cyber Club to get all the information needed for this event and others at www.AdditionFiArena.com. Season tickets for the inaugural 2024 season are on sale now and fans can place a deposit now to be added to the Valkyries priority list. Contact the Orlando Valkyries sales department at (321) 244-4600 ext. 113, via email at Tickets@OrlandoValkyries.com or visit OrlandoValkyries.com. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

The Downtown Orlando Sports and Entertainment District and the Orlando Magic has chosen two development partners for the proposed Sports and Entertainment District next to Amway Center. A long time planned sports and entertainment district in downtown Orlando, that was first announced back in 2011, finally appears to be inching closer to reality with the Downtown Orlando Sports and Entertainment District and the Orlando Magic announcing JMA Ventures, LLC and Machete Group, Inc. as the development team for the massive project. Located on W. Church Street and S. Hughey Avenue, this exciting mixed-use development project adjacent to the Amway Center on 8.43 acres will include several structures, a festival plaza space, approximately 200,000 sq. ft. of office space, 100,000 sq. ft. of retail space, a 250-room luxury hotel with expo center, 300 residential units, 80,000 sq. ft. for event space, and 2,300 integrated smart parking spaces. Alex Martins, CEO of the Orlando Magic commented on the news, “JMA Ventures and Machete Group are simply the best of the best. We are thrilled to have them take the reins and guide the sports and entertainment district into something Orlando will be proud to have in the heart of downtown.” While JMA Ventures CEO Todd Chapman. said, “Central Florida is a fantastic market for this type of mixed-use development, and this project will further energize downtown Orlando. We look forward to working with the Orlando community to bring the sports and entertainment district to life.” The ambitious project, which is expected to exceed $500 million, has no projected timeline or completion date. but is expected to break ground next year. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Visitors to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World can snap a new limited time Magic Shot in celebration of Disney100! ChEARS to 100 magical years of Disney, and many more! Guests to Walt Disney World can celebrate now though December 31 with a special Disney100 Magic Shots from Disney Photo Pass. The new Disney100 Magic Shot is available in front of the iconic Train Station in Main Street USA. at the entrance to Magic Kingdom. This Magic Shot plus many other Disney100 Magic Shots are available through December 31, 2023! These new Magic Shots at EPCOT and Magic Kingdom Park honor YOU — and all the storytellers who have carried on the Disney legacy over the last century that will continue to grow into the future, all are available now through December 31! For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

PlayFest is an annual festival that provides a place for writers, theatre professionals, and audiences to connect and share ideas that promote thought-provoking stories. Central Florida's largest professional theater company, Orlando Shakes, and The Arts Bridge Charity presents PlayFest 2023, a play-reading festival that helps to develop the works of six dynamic playwrights and their groundbreaking new plays. PlayFest 2023 which takes place at Orlando Shakes, will consist of six new play readings presented over two weekends, October 27 - 29 and November 3 - 4, 2023. During each reading, patrons will experience groundbreaking new works while participating in the creative process by sharing their reactions directly with the playwright and creative team at a post-show talkback. Since it first began 20 years ago, PlayFest has introduced over 163 new works to regional and nationwide audiences, including Karen Zacarías’ Native Gardens, Lauren Gunderson’s I and You, Mark Brown’s Around the World in 80 Days, Kathleen Cahill’s Charm, John Biguenet’s Shotgun, Jennifer Hoppe-House’s Bad Dog, William Missouri Downs’ The Exit Interview, Steve Yockey’s Blackberry Winter, and Steven Dietz’ Yankee Tavern. Out of those readings, Orlando Shakes have produced 18 new plays in their mainstage season. Many PlayFest plays have also received productions in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. Single tickets are just $15 each per play reading. Plus, for just $20 more, join Orlando Shakes on Saturday, November 4 for a buffet-style dinner (catered by Pig Floyds) with select available playwrights and directors in-between readings that day! It's all at Orlando Shakes! For more information or to order your tickets to PlayFest 2023, please call 407-447-1700 or visit here. Full line-up: “The Facts are as Follows:“ Sponsored by Rick Schell BY CHRISTOPHER WASHINGTON DIRECTED BY SHONN MCCLOUD Performance: October 27, 2023 Time: 8pm With a perfect memory and perfect LSAT score, James Ezekial Williams has just arrived on the East coast for his very first day of law school. Navigating a seductive, insidious curriculum designed by the genius Professor, James attempts to juggle microaggressions, critical race theory, and love. The Facts are as Follows:is about the consumption of whiteness, the folly of exceptionalism, and the creation of one’s own personal apocalypse. “Who Hurt You?“ Sponsored by Grant Gribble BY KATIE DO DIRECTED BY FELICHIA CHIVAUGHN Performance: October 28, 2023 Time: 8pm Ellie and Kira are two Vietnamese-American actors who always find themselves in the same audition rooms. As their lives become more intertwined with the same lovers, friends, and opportunities, Ellie’s jealousy spirals into a battle with insecurity, mental health and an epic heartbreak. When fear and coincidence bring Ellie to a life and death situation, her loved ones come together to ask, who hurt you?; how have we hurt ourselves?; and, most importantly, who hurt Ellie? “Hundreds and Hundreds of Stars“ Sponsored by Rita Lowndes BY SANDRA DELGADO DIRECTED BY CLARE LOPEZ Performance: October 29, 2023 Time: 4:30pm Like millions of Americans, Clara’s days are consumed with juggling work and family. Recently divorced, she’s taking care of her tween-age daughter, her aging father – and paying alimony to her under-employed ex-husband. But in the midst of all that stress, she’s got something to look forward to: a long planned for trip to Europe with her daughter Stella. In preparation, Clara, who immigrated to the US with her family as a child, decides to apply for full citizenship. She wants to be able to stand in the same customs line as Stella. But when her citizenship application is flagged, it sets off an unfathomable series of events that threaten to force her out of the only home she’s ever known. Timely and provocative, Hundreds and Hundreds of Stars asks challenging questions about our country’s most fundamental values. “Only Some of God’s Children or Mississippi Magnolias“ Sponsored by Jason Dion BY PARIS CRAYTON III DIRECTED BY ANGEL BATES CREEKS Performance: November 3, 2023 Time: 8pm Set two days after the 1963 March on Washington, John Malachi Curtis, and his best friend, William Cochise Brown, return home to Mississippi to unpack all of the emotions left over from the March, only to find, John’s son, Ezekiel, has been attacked during a sit-in protest. Betty, John’s wife, wants to leave Mississippi for good but the promise of land and remnants of love makes John unwilling to do so. Only Some of God’s Children or Mississippi Magnolias is a story of five different flowers just waiting to bloom. “Beheading Columbus“ Sponsored by The Mills Family Foundation BY DIANA BURBANO DIRECTED BY EDMARIE MONTES Performance: November 4, 2023 Time: 5pm Beheading Columbus follows two sisters down a trail of DNA deception and makes them face race and colorism in the Latinx community and in their own family. Lana looks white, Susi doesn’t and that’s been a point of conflict their whole life. Through DNA testing they discover that Lana has a white father. The DNA test also reveals that Susi, who is mixed race, has genes for the Alzheimers that are destroying their mother. Add to that, they discover that the previously unknown other father is a fertility doctor who has sired at least 40 mixed race children. Through love and a massive sense of humor, the sisters work at decolonizing themselves from the inside out. “Agathe“ Sponsored by Jason Dion BY ANGELA J. DAVIS DIRECTED BY JOSHIAN MORALES Performance: November 4, 2023 Time: 8pm In the spring of 1994, a plane crash will take the life of an African president and ignite a raging killing spree that the world will later recognize as the Rwandan genocide. The person who is next in line for the presidency is a university professor by training and an advocate for women and girls’ education. Agathe is inspired by the overlooked story of Agathe Uwilingiyimana, who served as Rwanda’s president for just fourteen hours and whose bravery and foresight are a beacon for all time. Fusing poetry and elements of magic realism with gripping docudrama, Agathe is a full-length play. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Get ready to take a bite out of the18h annual Central Florida Veg Fest, one of the LARGEST and LONGEST-RUNNING vegan festivals in the WORLD! Central Florida Veg Fest is an exciting day of colorful and educational exhibits and activities! It will take place at beautiful Orlando Festival Park near downtown Orlando on October 28, 2023 from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Admission is FREE! Veg Fest is a family-friendly, dog-friendly, alcohol-free, and smoke-free event. Veg Fest, now in its 18th year, is one of the biggest and best vegan festivals in the country! Central Florida Veg Fest will draw both committed vegans and those who want to learn more about how veg-living enhances our health, the planet, and its inhabitants. Enjoy a diverse cross-section of vegan cuisines and lifestyles. Discover new products and ideas from over 200 vendors and 100 contributors and enjoy a wide variety of presentations and food preparation demos. Not a vegetarian? Whether you're looking for new ideas to add color and variety to your meals or you're a "seasoned" vegetarian interested in expanding your knowledge of nutritious and ethical foods, this is the place for you. RSVP on the Veg Fest event page. Enjoy speakers,food preparation demonstrations, a veggie kids zone, an animal haven, an artist corner, music on an acoustic stage, lots of other activities, and many veg-friendly vendors. There are so many fun and interesting things happening at Veg Fest you will want to stay all day. And so much delicious vegan food that you can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner with plenty of snacks in between! For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!