The next time you decide on a beach day to Orlando's closest beach - Cocoa Beach, make sure you visit the new Visitor Information Center that has recently opened. As tourist numbers continue to climb, and demand for information on Cocoa Beach and the surrounding areas, the Space Coast Office of Tourism made the decision to open a new visitor center in Cocoa Beach. The space soft-opened last October to serve visitors and residents seeking information about attractions, events, and more in the area, and now the location is fully open. The Visitor Information Center is currently open Monday through Friday, 10 am - 6 pm (closed for lunch from 1 - 2.) “The new Visitor Information Center will not only be a place for tourists and residents alike to ask questions and pick up brochures about local attractions but will be designed to be a place to spark curiosity and interest in the Space Coast,” says Peter Cranis, Executive Director. “The mural, painted by local artist Lyssa Wyn of Barefoot and Doodles, will be the perfect place for the first selfie of a vacation or for guests to create their very own ‘wish you were here’ style photo.” In addition to the mural, the Visitor Information Center will have an exhibit space with displays and artifacts on temporary loan from local museums and attractions. The first display comes from Brevard Zoo and will include a crocodile skull, giraffe skull & vertebrae, and other artifacts.

Unfortunately, just in time for the weekend, a cold front is pushing into Central Florida, brining colder temperatures, gusty wind, and increased rain chances, forcing Universal Orland to close it's water park early! Universal Orlando Resort have announced that Volcano Bay, the resorts water park will close today, February 3, at 2 pm. The water parks currently scheduled to reopen tomorrow at 10 am.

Performers from around the world, including Argentina, Brazil, and Romania are showing off their skills and talents at Cirque Italia’s Water Circus in a series of shows this weekend in Ocala. The show is described as a 1950′s themed circus with a unique water stage, the only circus to be performing within a water stage in the country! Incredible artists are wowing audiences, young and old with their astounding acts. Master jugglers, low wire fanatics, dazzling contortion, wild trampoline antics, and even a wheel of death! Cirque Italia’s entertainment suitable for all age groups, where all are welcome at a strictly animal-free shows! The circus has pitched it's stunning white and blue big top tent at: 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd, Ocala, at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. Cirque Italia are only performing in Ocala this weekend, February 2 - 5, 2023 Showtimes are: February 3 – Friday: 7:30 pm February 4 – Saturday: 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm February 5 – Sunday: 1:30pm & 4:30pm For more information, visit www.cirqueitalia.com. Tickets start at $10.00 -$50.00 depending on availability. Cirque Italia offers one free child admission with every full priced paying adult ticket in levels 2 or 3. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts, or deals. Please call 941-704-8572 to get the promo code for your location.

Welcome to another jam packed GGO Weekend Guide with an exciting lineup of things to do right here in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. This weekend's highlights include the kick off weekend of this year's Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Orlando, and over at SeaWorld Orlando you'll discover the opening weekend of the popular Seven Seas Festival. Wicked continues at Dr Phillips Center throughout the weekend, and Sunday sees Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band perform at the Amway Center for the first time! Discover the BEST Things to Do in Orlando This Weekend! Check out our bumper weekend list with something happening for everyone 2023 Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval Universal Studios Florida February 4, 2023 through April 16, 2023 Every spring, the fun and excitement of the Big Easy makes its way to Universal Orlando Resort for an authentic celebration that completely transforms Universal Studios Florida into a family-friendly version of the famed New Orleans street party. Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run from from February 4, 2023, through April 16, 2023. The parkwide celebrations will transform Universal Studios Florida into Florida’s biggest party, complete with the return of the parade, the beads, the tribute store, the food, and the big name concerts. The 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Happening now through Sunday, February 20, 2023 Eat, drink and be dazzled by creative culinary masterpieces during the 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T. Celebrate the visual arts, performing arts and culinary arts during an art festival that features more than 100 Disney and visiting artists that are showcasing their eye-catching works of art. Guests of all ages can express their creative side by learning to draw a Disney character at Animation Academy, leaving their own creative mark at Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural and helping Figment learn about art on a scavenger hunt around World Showcase. Each evening, the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series will feature talented entertainers performing Disney songs live at America Gardens Theatre. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is available with valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same date. The Disney On Broadway Concert Series Happening now through Sunday, February 20, 2023 The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is returning for the 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T, This is where you can see some of your favorite Disney Broadway stars perform Disney musical numbers, live at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase. This weekends performers: February 3 Patti Murin (Frozen) and Robert Creighton (The Little Mermaid) February 4 Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King) February 5 Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King) The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is available with valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same date. The 2023 SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival February 3, 2023 through May 7, 2023 Oceans of flavor and fun are waiting at SeaWorld. From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct offerings. Explore more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 refreshing wine and cocktail selections, including more than 75 craft brews. Add a taste of rock, country, Latin, or throwback sounds at our live music shows, and enjoy even more diverse entertainment and surprises at special times like Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo. With so many exquisite flavors to top off exhilarating coasters and extraordinary animal encounters, the Seven Seas Food Festival is a voyage to fill the belly! Available with valid theme park admission Mardi Gras At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Happening now through Sunday, March 5, 2023 Get jazzed up with Mardi Gras-style live music and New Orleans-inspired entertainment. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday though March 5, 2023 at Busch Gardens Mardi Gras. Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and get caught up in the fun as you dance through the park. Feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay. Mardi Gras At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is available with valid theme park admission. Elmo's Birthday Celebration at SeaWorld Orlando Now through Friday, February 3, 2023 Celebrate Elmo’s Birthday daily until February 3, with meet-and-greets, a family-friendly DJ, photo opportunities with your favorite furry friends, and even more surprises in select locations around Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld! This event is included with your park admission. fun-filled weekend with hands-on activities, character photo opportunities, and more. This family-friendly celebration is located in Sesame Street Land and is included with park admission. Wicked at Dr Phillips Center Happening now through February 12, 2023 Wicked is happening now at the Walt Disney Theater at Dr Phillips Center through until February 12, 2023. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships … until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “Wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked—the untold true story of the Witches of Oz—transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story that USA Today cheers is “a complete triumph! Limited tickets are available now, check out the Dr Phillips Center website for details. Carrie: The Musical at the Fringe ArtSpace Now through February 5, 2023 CARRIE The Musical is a thrilling and engaging retelling of Stephen King’s classic novel Carrie. It tells the story of Carrie White, a teenager from a small town in New England, who is relentlessly bullied at school for being different and is harshly controlled at home by her fanatical mother. It’s gonna be “a night you’ll never forget.” Tickets available here. Henry V presented by The Orlando Shakes Weekly, Wednesday - Sunday until February 5, 2023 The latest Orlando Shakes production, Henry V takes to the stage until February 5, 2023 at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater. In this exciting continuation of the Fire and Reign Series, King Henry IV is dead and Prince Hal, fresh to the throne, attempts to prove himself a worthy ruler by brazenly laying claim to parts of France. When France mocks his claim, he leads the English forces across the Channel. Now this inexperienced new ruler must prove he is fit to unite his country and defeat the French at the Battle of Agincourt – against all odds. Don’t miss this epic, thrilling, and powerful conclusion to the rise of Henry V – packed with battles, betrayals, comedy, and love! Nunsense A-Men! at The Winter Park Playhouse Happening now through February 18, 2023 This side-splitting musical comedy performed at The Winter Park Playhouse is the original Off-Broadway musical Nunsense with all the characters portrayed by men! Think of it as "Mrs. Doubtfire enters the Convent." The Little Sisters of Hoboken discover their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters so they put on a variety show to raise funds for the burials. Get tickets now! Suitable for Most Audiences (Age 13 & up) Dave Mason & Justin Hayward at Plaza Live Friday, February 3, 2023 Don't miss Dave Mason and Justin Hayward LIVE in Orlando! Dave Mason left Traffic in 1969 to pursue a solo career in the U.S. Dave has penned over 100 songs. Dave, a prolific artist in his own right, has collaborated with an enviable list of the who’s who in the music industry... Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, Rita Coolidge, Delaney & Bonnie, Leon Russell, Ron Wood, Steve Winwood, Eric Clapton, and Jim Capaldi, just to name a few. Justin Hayward is an English musician best known as the lead singer, songwriter and guitarist of the rock band the Moody Blues. Hayward became the group's principal lead guitarist and vocalist over the 1967–1974 period, and the most prolific songwriter and composer of several international hit singles for the band. Tickets and info here! Emotional Roller Coaster: Love Letter to Life Friday, February 3, 2023 In honor of Black History Month, onePULSE Foundation is partnering with the Orange County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative and Bethune-Cookman University to present a special performance of the original readers theater piece, “Emotional Rollercoaster: Love Letter to Life,” on Friday, Feb. 3 from 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Orlando Repertory Theatre’s Black Box (1001 E. Princeton Street). The free event will also include a chat-back session with the young performers hosted by Star 94.5 radio host Monica May as well as complimentary authentic African American cuisine. Heart Skate at Wave Hotel Parking Garage Friday, February 3, 2023 Lake Nona has partnered with renowned artist Jefrë and the American Heart Association to kick off American Heart Month! Let’s paint the town red and roll into American Heart Month together with skating, music, food and non-stop fun at Heart Skate, happening in the Wave Hotel Garage on February 3! AHA Heart Skate will feature a celebrity guest DJ as well as other live entertainment and a cash bar. To enter the event, you must purchase a ticket. This event is for 18+, and proof of valid ID is required. Art After Dark in Lake Nona Friday, February 3, 2023 Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center. Perfectly nestled between Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen and Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine of Lake Nona, Art After Dark is a perfect evening out for the whole family. Enjoy a stroll through our Town Center as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while to enjoy the art displayed on the six story art installation, The Beacon. This three hour event kicks off at 6 PM and is open to the public. Kenny Wayne Shepherd: Trouble Is... 25th Anniversary Tour with Samantha Fish Friday, February 3, 2023 Kenny Wayne Shepherd comes to Hard Rock Live Orlando. Tickets on sale now! There are few artists whose names are synonymous with one instrument and how it's played in service to an entire genre. Utter the phrase "young blues rock guitarist" within earshot of anyone with even a cursory knowledge of the modern musical vanguard and the first name they are most likely to respond with will be Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The Louisiana born axeman and songsmith has sold millions of albums while throwing singles into the Top 10, shining a light on the rich blues of the past and forging ahead with his own modern twist on a classic sound he has embodied since his teens. Leu Gardens Movie Night: Mr Deeds Goes To Town Friday, February 3, 2023 Enjoy an outdoor movie in Orlando’s most beautiful garden. Pack a dinner picnic basket and seating, alcohol is permitted. This movie is not rated, children under 13 years of age require accompanying parent or adult guardian, weather permitting. Tickets only available online. Orlando Pokemon Regional Championship Friday, February 3 until Sunday, February 5, 2023 The 2022-23 Pokémon Championship series, leading to the Pokémon World Championships in Yokohama, Japan, is currently underway and its next stop in North America is the Orange County Convention Center, Competitors compete for up to $65,000 in prizes, scholarships and gift cards as well coveted Championship Points for an invitation to the World Championship. In addition to championship tournaments, there will be Side Events for all ages and skill levels, First Step (learn to play) Retro Pokémon video games, live stream, vendors and a Japanese artist who has created over 500 Pokémon cards! For more information or to register as a player or spectator, visit www.overload-events.com. An Intimate Evening With David Foster & Katharine McPhee at Dr Phillips Center Friday, February 3, 2023 16-time Grammy Award-winning musician, composer and producer David Foster and acclaimed singer, television and Broadway star Katharine McPhee are bringing their viral Instagram show on the road, and will be taking to the stage at Dr Phillips Center, get tickets now. Coming directly from the living room to the stage, this intimate show with the powerhouse duo will be packed with Foster’s hits from Chicago, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé and more, along with McPhee’s biggest songs from American Idol, Smash and Waitress—plus some of their personal favorites! TobyMac Hits Deep Tour at Amway Center Friday, February 3, 2023 TobyMac Hits Deep Tour is the unique idea of Christian music icon TobyMac. The heart behind Hits Deep is to bring music to the people with a diverse lineup of artists who have a hit songs on the radio and also songs, which hit deep into the heart of fans across the country. With a decade of history, Hits Deep has become one of the largest and highly-anticipated annual events in the Christian music genre impacting tens of thousands of people each year. Get tickets now. The R&B Renaissance at The Abbey Friday, February 3, 2023 R&B is one of the most celebrated and meaningful forms of music of the entire 20th century. In recent years the art form has gone through a transition which has seen it experience a sharp decline in popularity. At the R&B Renaissance some of the most gifted singers from Central Florida will be reigniting the flame while walking us back down memory lane to experience some of the most soul stirring sounds from the genre. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the R&B Renaissance! Get tickets here. Rock Of Ages at Garden Theatre, Winter Garden Happening now through Sunday, February 26, 2023 ROCK OF AGES takes you back to the time of big bands with big egos playing big guitar solos, and sporting even bigger hair! This five-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical features the hits of bands Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, and more. The show features an all-star cast, including American Idol Bo Bice, The Voice finalist Omar Cardona, and Broadway star Justin Sargent. Info and tickets. Pirate Fest Weekends at LEGOLAND Florida Resort Saturdays & Sundays until February 19, 2023 Captain Redbeard returns ashore from his adventures to recruit the best of the best in the latest class of pirates. His ultimate mission: take over LEGOLAND Theme Park to bury his treasure. Join the pirate invasion fun with exclusive LEGO characters meet-and-greets, pirate-themed shows, LEGO build activities, and more! Pirate Fest Weekends is included with Daily Tickets and select Annual Passes. Free Family Movie Night at Aquatica Beach Nights - SING Saturday, January 28, 2023 Free family movies are back at Aquatic Water Park this January and February. The whole family can enjoy fun days and nights at SeaWorld Orlando’s Aquatica Beach Nights. Saturday, February 4 Movie at 5:45 pm Sing From thrilling slides like Riptide Race to relaxing waterways like Loggerhead Lane and more, Aquatica has 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.” After 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. Mount Dora Arts Festival Saturday, February 4 & Sunday, February 5, 2023 The 48th annual Mount Dora Arts Festival will be held on the streets of historic downtown Mount Dora, Florida. Experience more than 250 fine artists lined along the streets to showcase a vast array of incredible talent in this juried event. There will be a kid zone, beer, wine, cocktails, music and festival food to round out the amazing weekend. The event runs 9am-5pm on Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday and is FREE to attend. Celebrate Lunar Festival at XL Soccer World Lake Nona Saturday, February 4, 2023 This cultural event boasts many unique features: traditional lion dancing, live music, Tai Chi demonstration, taiko drums, K-pop dance, kids carnival games, live DJ, a traditional gown fashion show featuring Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean attire, tasty Asian food, talented market vendors, kung fu/taekwondo performers… and so much more! Check out the official website for details The Brevard Renaissance Fair - Celtic Weekend Saturday, February 4 & Sunday, February 5, 2023 The Brevard Renaissance Fair returns with the Celtic Weekend! Fire up the pipes and tune the fiddle, for this weekend belongs to the Celts. Let Cu Dubh and The Jackdaws take you on a musical journey of rebellion and reminiscence, drink a pint or two, and perhaps show off your knees and well turned calves at our “Bonnie Knees Kilt Contest”. With over 100 stage shows daily, varieties of foods and treats, and numerous artisan merchants with handcrafted wares, the Brevard Renaissance Fair invites guests to immerse themselves in a unique experience of history and fantasy! Highly Suspect Presented By WJRR Saturday, February 4, 2023 Highly Suspect presented by WJRR comes to House of Blues Orlando. Get your tickets now! Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour Saturday, February 4 , 2023 Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour comes to Hard Rock Live. Tickets on sale now! Taco and Margarita Festival Camping World Stadium Saturday, February 4 , 2023 The Orlando Taco and Margarita Festival comes to Camping World Stadium on Saturday, February 4 with big, bold flavors for all to enjoy. The're partnering with several popular, local taquerias, restaurants and food trucks to offer innovative taco options and exciting sampling opportunities. Get ready for live music, live wrestling, taco-eating competitions, carnival games and so much more! Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band at Amway Center Sunday, February 5, 2023 Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band kick off their 2023 international tour with 31 performances across the United States spanning from February 1 in Tampa, FL through an April 14 homecoming in Newark, New Jersey before heading to Europe. The shows mark Springsteen and The E Street Band's first tour dates since February 2017, and their first in North America since September 2016. Springsteen and The E Street Band make their debut performance at Orlando's Amway Center on Sunday, February 5, 2023. Orlando Area Farmers Markets Saturday, February 4 , 2023 Every weekend there are some awesome farmers markets happening throughout the area, Winter Garden Farmers Market The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden. Winter Park Farmer's Market The Saturday Farmers’ Market is one of the best produce and plant markets in central Florida which takes place every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Central Park. Lake Mary Farmer's Market The Lake Mary Farmers Market features local vendors of produce, plants, baked goods, and arts and crafts. The market is open every Saturday, from 9am-1:30pm at Lake Mary City Hall. City of Longwood Farmer's Market Visit every Saturday at the City of Longwood Farmer's Market at Reiter Park from 9 am to 2 pm, with locally sourced seafood and produce to handmade crafts and more. Lake Nona Farmers Market Join in every Saturday morning in Lake Nona in the beautiful Town Center from 11 am - 3 pm, shop local with the freshest produce and more. Orlando Area Farmers Markets Sunday, February 5, 2023 Every weekend there are some awesome farmers markets happening throughout the area, Orlando Farmers Market at Lake Eola Park One of the most popular farmers markets in Central Florida, Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of Orlando at Lake Eola park, and takes place Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebration Farmers Market Every week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors here selling everything from fresh food and produce, to local crafted jewelry, and much more, with a beautiful backdrop of Lakeside Park, this is a must go to farmers market on Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m East Orlando Farmer's Market The popular East Orlando Farmers Market offers hand selected produce, creative local small business owners, along with botanical varieties to chose from. Every Sunday 11 am - 4 pm. Clermont Farmer's Market Clermont Farmer's Market features over 60 vendors selling seafood, organic produce, and other household items, this popular market is the place to go on Sundays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Downtown Mount Dora Village Market Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors.

Ormond Beach MainStreet and the Ormond Beach Arts District is hosting the 9th annual Granada Grand Festival of the Arts this weekend. On Saturday, February 4, from 10 am until 4 pm, The Granada Grand Festival of the Arts will offer a generous helping of all things art, from visual artists and art demonstrations to musical performances and hands-on activities for the whole family. More than 5,000 visitors are expected to wander around the festival, where over 80 artists will gather along New Britain Avenue from Beach Street to Ridgewood Avenue. Interact with select artists as they conduct live demonstrations of their technique, then snag something unique from one of over 80 exhibitors selling their handcrafted pieces, the majority of whom reside in Volusia County. Even the smallest art-lover will stay entertained in the kid’s zone, with fun art projects, games, face painting, and a bouncy house. Visit the Young Artists tent where local students ages 6 – 18 will be displaying their work for sale alongside local art teacher, Pat Spano. It’s a chance for these select young artists to be an active part of the local art scene, and to find out more about the life of a working artist. Here you’ll also find a mini art studio where Pat and the young artists will help children create a masterpiece of their own. Pick your medium! For those who want to learn more about how to DIY, artists will be offering live demonstrations all around the Festival. Woodworking, pottery, broom making, spray art, calligraphy, sand art, and classic painting skills will all be on display. An updated schedule of Festival events and a parking map are available on Facebook and at ormondbeachmainstreet.com.

Explore African American influence and culture throughout Orlando during Black History Month. There is special events and happenings throughout February for locals and visitors to experience here in Orlando that will celebrate African American culture and history. Black History Month 2023 Events & Exhibits In Orlando Black History Month Art Exhibition Now through Sunday, April 30, 2023 The City of Orlando's Black History Month Art Exhibition celebrates the creativity and cultural heritage of Black visual artists. Featuring local visual artists in a variety of mediums, the new “Black Resistance” exhibit recognizes how African Americans have fought repression and inspired folks to participate in civil rights and racial equity movements. Orlando City Hall - Terrace Gallery, 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando. The Story Quilters of Hannibal Square Now through Sunday, April 29, 2023 The Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park pays tribute to past, present and future contributions of Winter Park’s historic African American community though museum-quality exhibitions, festivals and gallery talks. In addition to the award-winning, 200-piece Heritage Collection: Photographs and Oral Histories of West Winter Park, the Heritage Center is hosting The Story Quilters of Hannibal Square. The exhibit features exquisite storytelling quilts and artist reflections on the Black experience, spirituality, justice, femininity, family and nature. It’s free to visit, and you can even take a free group story quilting class with Lauren Austin, founder of The Hannibal Square Story Quilters, in partnership with the Crealdé School of Art. City of Orlando's Dedication of Luminaries Friday, February 3, 2023 Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and District 5 Commissioner Regina I. Hill invite you to the Dedication of Luminaries. Join them as they light the first 12 luminary memorials installed to honor the life and legacy of community leaders who made the Parramore neighborhood a better, brighter place. Dedication of Luminaries, Luminary Green Park, 437 Terry Street, Orlando. 5.45 pm Orange County Library System's African American Read-In Sunday, February 5, 2023 Celebrate African American literature in poetry, story and song performed by local luminaries in conjunction with the 33rd Annual National African American Read-In, at Orlando Public Library. U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, WMFE host Talia Blake, Grammy-nominated songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nkosinathi “Nathi” Gcabashe, Nerd Nite Orlando host Ricardo Williams, WFTV Channel 9 anchor Daralene Jones, XL 106.7 host Johnny Magic and WESH 2 News anchor Summer Knowles will share African American literature in poetry, story and song. City of Orlando’s Black History Month Proclamation Presentation Sunday, February 5, 2023 Mayor Buddy Dyer and the City Commissioners will join the Black History Month (BHM) Planning Committee in the reading of the city’s Proclamation to officially proclaim February as Black History Month in the City of Orlando. In addition, the BHM Planning Committee and sponsors will be recognized for helping to coordinate, promote, and support a variety of events that celebrates the rich and diverse culture of Black heritage. City of Orlando’s Black History Month Proclamation Presentation Orlando City Hall, Council Chambers, 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, 2 pm. City of Orlando’s Black History Month Signature Event Wednesday, February 8, 2023 Join the City of Orlando for their annual Black History Month Signature Event celebrating the remarkable contributions and positive influence of Black Americans in the Central Florida community. This free event will also include a keynote address from Jasmine Burney-Clark, Founder of Equal Ground Education Fund and Action Fund, the City of Orlando’s Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome, live entertainment by local performers, music by DJ Dalastmo, and delicious food! City of Orlando’s Black History Month Signature Event Camping World Stadium - West Lounge, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, 6pm Voices of Freedom: An Evening of Spoken Word Friday, February 10, 2023 In downtown Orlando, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts invites the entire Central Florida community and its visitors to experience the Freedom Series, which celebrates African American artists and showcasing diverse performing arts. It kicks off with Voices of Freedom: An Evening of Spoken Word, hosted by City of Orlando Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome. Black History Walking Tour Friday, February 10, 2023 The second annual Black History Walking Tour will take place in the Parramore neighborhood of downtown Orlando beginning at 2 p.m. During the hour-long tour, a guide will share all about Orlando's rich Black history while viewing various historic sites, including the inside of the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture. Crafternoons: Celebrate Black History Month Wednesday, February 15, 2023 Learn how to create new crafts in celebration of Black History Month in this creative and collaborative crafting event. Recommended for ages 6 through 8. Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, 4pm. Samone Hicks and Rose Grace's "Songs of Hope and Inspiration" Friday, February 17, 2023 Celebrate Black History Month with Samone Hicks, soprano, and Rose Grace, pianist, at Timucua Arts Foundation, an intimate 100-seat concert hall nestled in downtown Orlando’s SoDo District. Share a bottle of wine as the duo perform Songs of Hope and Inspiration, featuring art song cycles from Black composers including Nkeiru Okoye, Undine Smith Moore, Florence Price, Adolphus Hailstork and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. Orlando's 8th Annual MLK Concert Saturday, February 18, 2023 Produced and directed by Grammy Award-winner Dr. Jeffrey Redding, the Orlando's 8th Annual MLK Concert produced and directed by Grammy Award Winner, Dr. Jeffrey Redding. Hosted at Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando, this event offers an incredible opportunity to hear live music inside one of the world’s most acoustically perfect spaces in exchange for non-perishable food donations. The Orange County Regional History Center Celebrating Black Arts and Culture Saturday, February 18, 2023 Orange County Regional History Center honors Black History Month with a celebration of Black history, arts and culture in Central Florida. This free event will offer fun learning opportunities for the whole family, including hands-on activities, living-history presentations, and exciting guests! Performances include readings by members of the youth empowerment group Page 15 and by award-winning Central Florida historian and poet Valada Flewellyn. Children’s activities include making airplanes, inspired by pioneering pilot Bessie Coleman, a ring-toss inspired by ranching legend Lawrence Silas, and more. Lakeland's Black History Festival Saturday, February 18, 2023 Join the City of Lakeland as we celebrate Black History Month at the Black History Festival in Jackson Park with various artisan vendors, kids' activities, food trucks, and entertainment. Look forward to outstanding dance performances by Crystals World of Dance, bounce houses for the little ones, and an opportunity to interact with neighborhood associations. This year, be sure to venture inside the Coleman-Bush Building to check out a neighborhood history walk featuring information on some of the pioneers of Lakeland's black community provided by the Lakeland History and Culture Center. The 4th Annual 1619 Fest Orlando Saturday, February 18, and Sunday, February 19, 2023 Orlando's Fourth Annual 1619 Fest kicks off with Saturday's Rebel Run 5K at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, with a path through the historic African American community of Hannibal Square. There will also be two days' filled with festivities and live music. Sanford Jazz Ensemble: Salute to Black History Month Sunday, February 19, 2023 Get up and dance to classic jazz, Motown and DooWop at this year's Black History Month Concert by the Sanford Jazz Ensemble. Held at the historic Ritz Theater in Sanford, this toe-tapping event celebrates acclaimed African American musicians like Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Thelonious Monk, with medleys by Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and The Four Tops. What’s Up Downtown Parramore Historic Bus Trolley Tour Thursday, February 23, 2023 Join the City of Orlando in celebrating Black History Month in February and the positive contributions, culture, and heritage of our African American residents. On Thursday, February 23, take a step back in history as we board a trolley for a historic tour! The conductor for the event will be none other than the tour creator herself - Jennifer Campbell, Art Director and Graphic Designer of Dancing Fish Design. Tour must be booked in advance. 9.15 am or 11.30 am. Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, 511 West South Street, Orlando. Black History Month Fair Housing Fair Saturday, February 25, 2023 The City of Orlando’s Office of Human Relations presents a 2023 HUD sponsored Fair Housing Fair with the theme: “Fair Housing is Black History.” This free event offers members of the Orlando community opportunities to learn more about the City of Orlando’s Chapter 57 Ordinance and discrimination protections under the Fair Housing Act. Members can visit the “Fair Booths” of local community organizations, attend pre-registered Fair Housing training sessions, courtesy of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, Inc., and Florida Legal Services; play games, win prizes, and enjoy food, music, and a kid zone. Primrose Center, 595 North Primrose Drive, Orlando, 12 pm. Kevin Harris' Joy-Filled Noise: A Musical Celebration of Black History Sunday, February 26, 2023 Music director Kevin Harris leads a vocal and instrumental ensemble of some of the region’s top talent in a survey of Black American music, from the South African hymn "Siyahamba" to African American spirituals, jazz, blues and gospel songs old and new. Celebrate Black history at Timucua Arts Foundation with music director Kevin Harris, who will lead a vocal and instrumental ensemble of some of the region’s top talent in a survey of Black American Music, from the South African hymn Siyahamba, to African American Spirituals, Jazz, Blues, and Gospel songs old and new. Expect original arrangements, stirring performances and stellar harmonies at Joy-Filled Noise: A Musical Celebration of Black History.

A comedy legend has been added to the ever growing list of celebrities coming to this year's MegaCon Orlando in March. Star of the comedy classic movie series National Lampoon, Chevy Chase is coming on a vacation to Orlando! Chase also been a staple of Saturday Night Live, where his recurring Weekend Update segment became a highlight of the show. Chase has earned three Primetime Emmy Awards out of five nominations and two Golden Globe Award nominations. Chase has starred in some of the best loved comedies of our generation, including portraying Clark W. Griswold in five National Lampoon's Vacation films including Vacation , European Vacation, Christmas Vacation, and Vegas Vacation. He also played Irwin "Fletch" Fletcher in Fletch and its sequel Fletch Lives. He also starred in Caddyshack, Spies Like Us, Three Amigos!, and Hot Tub Time Machine. This year's MegaCon Orlando has a growing list of celebrities all coming to this year's event at the Orange County Convention Center. Charlie Hunnam is well known for his roles as Jackson "Jax" Teller in the FX drama series Sons of Anarchy for which he was twice nominated for the Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series is coming! He has also had roles include Green Street, Undeclared, the title role in Nicholas Nickleby, Pacific Rim, Crimson Peak, The Lost City of Z, and in the title role of Guy Ritchie's King Arthur: Legend of the Sword. Already announced for this year's MegaCon Orlando is Golden Globe, SAG, and Emmy nominee Christina Ricci. Ricci is currently starring in Netflix hit Wednesday, and was seen in the Amazon original series Z: The Beginning of Everything, for which she also served as a producer. she also played the title character in the television series The Lizzie Borden Chronicles, for which she earned a SAG Award nomination. She has also starred in many films including Mermaids, The Addams Family, Casper, The Smurfs 2, Speed Racer and more. Another guest is Vincent D’Onofrio, well known for his roles in both film and television. His credits include Full Metal Jacket, Men in Black, The Cell, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and Jurassic World. D’Onofrio is well know for his portrayal of Kingpin across the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Henry Winkler is also attending this years MegaCon, Winkler is an American actor, comedian, author, executive producer, and director, although of course he is best known for his portrayal of Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli on the American television series Happy Days. Also announced is Harry Power star Matthew Lewis, best known for portraying Neville Longbottom in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Mark-Paul Gosselaar, best know to fans of Saved by the Bell as Zack Morris will also be in attendance at this years convention. Gates McFadden best known for playing Dr. Beverly Crusher in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and in the four subsequent films will also be attending this years MegaCon. Another big name coming to Orlando for MegaCon this year is Sean Gunn, best know for playing Kraglin Obfonteri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In this role, he has been in the films Guardians of the Galaxy, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Avengers: Endgame, Thor: Love and Thunder , the television film The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special and the upcoming film Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 . He also played Weasel and Calendar Man in the Warner Bros./DCEU film The Suicide Squad. Brec Bassinger has also announced for this years MegaCon! Bassinger is best know for playing the titular role in the series Stargirl from DC Universe and The CW. Legendary director Sam Raimi is also appearing at this year's MegaCon Orlando. Raimi is the man behind your fave films, known for directing the Spider-Man trilogy (2002–2007) and the Evil Dead franchise (1981–present). He also directed the 1990 superhero film Darkman, the 1995 revisionist western The Quick and the Dead, the 1998 neo-noir crime-thriller A Simple Plan, the 2000 supernatural thriller film The Gift, the 2009 supernatural horror film Drag Me to Hell, and the 2013 Disney fantasy film Oz the Great and Powerful. Raimi has also produced several successful television series, including Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and its spin-off Xena: Warrior Princess. He founded the production company Renaissance Pictures in 1979 and Ghost House Pictures in 2002. His latest film, the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, was released on May 6, 2022, becoming his highest grossing film at the box office. Also announced for this years convention is a bounty of six Star Wars legends. Carl Weathers (Greef Karga), Giancarlo Esposito (Moff Gideon), Katee Sackhoff (Bo-Katan Kryze) and Emily Swallow (The Armorer) from The Mandalorian, Vivien Lyra Blair, who played young Princess Leia in Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ashley Eckstein, who played Ahsoka Tano in The Clone Wars animated series. MegaCon Orlando have also announced that the original and much loved host of Blues Clues, Steve Burns is heading to Orlando for this year's MegaCon. He is best known as the original host of the long-running children's preschool television program Blue's Clues from 1996 until 2002, for which he was nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 2001. With tickets now on sale, Anson Mount (Captain Christopher Pike) and Ethan Peck (Spock) from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, are coming to this years MegaCon Orlando Anson Mount is an American actor known for his television roles as fictional character Cullen Bohannon in the AMC western drama series Hell on Wheels, Jim Steele on NBC series Conviction, the Marvel Comics superhero Black Bolt in Marvel's Inhumans, and Captain Christopher Pike in season 2 of Star Trek: Discovery. Ethan Peck is an American actor currently playing Spock in the second season of Star Trek: Discovery. He is the grandson of a Hollywood legend, Gregory Peck. More recently he accepted the role of Herman Ackermann on the series Penny Dreadful: City Of Angels. MEGACON Orlando is one of North America's largest largest comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming event that attracts hundreds of thousands of people across four BIG days. Every year, MEGACON Orlando offers exciting family-friendly attractions, events, and world-renowned Celebrities! Everyone is a fan of something, and MEGACON Orlando is the place to celebrate all things pop culture. Get an autograph or a photo with your favorite guest, and then get the inside scoop about your favorite movies and TV shows at our celebrity panels! Watch professional comic artists battle it out in our popular Sketch Duels, learn from our “How To” workshops, and take photos with your favorite costumed characters! It’s also a great place to buy a unique gift (or treat yourself!) with a huge show floor for shopping madness. HIGHLIGHTS: CELEBRITY PHOTO OPS Don’t miss out on the chance of a lifetime to meet you favorite celebrity and have the moment captured by a professional photographer. This is the only way to get a beautiful 8x10 glossy photo of you with one of our guests in an intimate setting. AUTOGRAPH SESSIONS An autograph is the perfect opportunity to get that special something signed by your favorite celebrity. Be sure to check out the full schedule so you don’t miss out on any of your faves! ARTIST ALLEY Indie meets pro in this special area where you will find all your favorite pencillers, inkers and writers. This is a ”must experience" area for anyone interested in meeting rising stars and those who work the front lines of the industry! Here you’ll find it all – comics, graphic novels, limited edition prints and best of all, original art and sketches. You’ll also find crafters and makers, all with a nerdy slant to their designs and creations. COSPLAY RED CARPET Get ready for the Cosplay Red Carpet! There's no pre-registration, no competition & no stress! Walk the red carpet and show off your costume in front of adoring fans. Every participant will get a free photo taken by Jeff Jenkins Photography, MEGACON’s official Cosplay Red Carpet Photographer. OVER 400,000 SQ FT OF SHOPPING MADNESS! More than 1,000 retailers join MEGACON Orlando to make your experience an unforgettable one! Specializing in everything comics, anime, gaming, science fiction and horror, these retailers are guaranteed to have what you need. FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! Our event prides itself on having so many amazing activities and attractions that are family oriented. Spend the day with the whole family as you meet your favorite Superheroes, Princesses and voice actors. You can even enter the Cosplay Costume Contest as a family! COMMUNITY ZONE Whether you're a Whovian or Jedi, a cosplayer or crafter, the Community Zone is where you find people who share your fandom! Find out about local clubs, get up close to movie props, test your trivia, and snap photos galore with fans who are excited as you are to get together. PANELS, WORKSHOPS & SEMINAR From Celebrity Q&A’s, fan club presentations, hands-on workshops and screening rooms, there’s hundreds of hours of programming available for every fandom. The best part? It’s free with your admission ticket. Check the daily schedule to find out when and where the fun happens. COSTUMES! COSTUMES! COSTUMES! Fans dressing up in costumes (also known as cosplay) is a huge part of the show! Literally thousands of amazing costumes are available for your viewing pleasure throughout the weekend. Don’t be shy: ask for a photo with your favorite characters or come dressed up yourself. MEET LEGENDARY COMIC BOOK CREATORS Comics Legends, Professional Comic Book artists, and writers will be with us all weekend. Be sure to drop by the Artist Alley to meet them and see their amazing work! MEET YOUR FAVORITE VOICE ACTORS The actors that voice your favorite animated characters will be at our show to sign autographs, pose for photos and meet with their fans. They have developed a well-deserved reputation for being super-friendly and enthusiastic! COSPLAY PHOTO PARK Snap the best shot with the coolest background at our Photo Park. From outer space to enchanted lands, there’s a setting for everyone. COSPLAY MEET UPS Meet like-minded fans and get a picture to remember at a themed cosplay meet up. Watch for a schedule of specific fandom meet-ups closer to show time.

In a recent analysis looking at surf fatalities, hurricane frequency, and shark attacks, Central Floda's very own Cocoa Beach came in at number two in the U.S. Florida featured heavily in the Travel Lens America’s 10 Deadliest Beaches to visit list, with seven Florida beaches named in the Top 10. The beach given the dubious title of America's deadliest beach was Florida’s New Smyrna Beach, probably well deserved considering that since 2010, New Smyrna Beach has faced 10 surf zone fatalities and more shark attacks than any other beach at 32. This was more than twice as many as any other US beach. The coastal town has also been hit with 120 hurricanes between 1851 and 2020. Our very own local beach, Cocoa Beach has been named second most deadly beach, which has had as many surf zone fatalities as shark attacks, with a total of seven. Ass for the amount of hurricanes, Cocoa has had the same as nearby New Smyma, 120 hurricanes. Where are America's most dangerous beaches? Here're the 10 most dangerous beaches from Travel Lens' list: 1 New Smyrna Beach, Florida - 8.14/10 danger score 2 Cocoa Beach, Florida - 7.57/10 danger score 3 Ormond Beach, Florida - 7.48/10 danger score 4 Panama City beach, Florida - 7.16/10 danger score 5 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - 6.61/10 danger score 6 Melbourne Beach, Florida - 6.35/10 danger score 7 Jacksonville Beach, Florida - 6.02/10 danger score 8 Oak Island, North Carolina - 5.54/10 danger score 9 Gulf Shores, Alabama - 5.38/10 danger score 10 . Fort Lauderdale, Florida - 5.37/10 danger score How to stay safe at the beach To stay safe, you need to stay aware of the local weather and ocean conditions, such as tide forecasts, dangerous currents or other beach hazards, according to the National Weather Service. Before leaving for the beach, check the official surf zone forecast and beach advisories and closings. Know how to swim and swim near a lifeguard. Bring flotation devices or a United States Coast Guard approved life jacket. Know the beach's address should you need to call for help. Know the location of life stations on the beach equipped with life rings that could be thrown to someone in trouble.

As February begins, Walt Disney World is offering guests new and traditional ways to Celebrate Soulfully during Black History Month. The resort is offering guests a variety of experiences to celebrate, educate and honor Black heritage and culture throughout the resort. From art to food to music and more, there are many opportunities to feel soulful, including several new ones debuting in February. With the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts in full swing, you’ll have the chance to meet two of the Black artists featured in this year’s festival lineup. From February 3-5, Kahran and Regis Bethencourt, founders of CreativeSoul Photography, will be at The American Adventure pavilion to showcase their reimagined visions of classic Disney princesses through dolls, costumes, and photographic prints. And for the first time ever, there will be a gallery exhibit featuring life-sized dresses and natural hair styled wigs seen in their photographic prints. Black Broadway performers will be featured during the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series on various dates between February 4 – 19. They include: L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King) Kissy Simmons (The Lion King) Michael James Scott (Aladdin) The already colorful and diverse Disney Springs Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression will receive two new additions by Black artists, and they will both paint their work live during Black History Month. Ernest Shaw and Nneka Jones will join the likes of Everett Spruill and David Anthony Geary. By the end of February, you will be able to celebrate the work of four Black artists on the Art Walk, showcasing the ongoing commitment to diversity and representation at Walt Disney World. If you visit Disney Springs often, you may be familiar with the smooth sounds of Motown experienced through live entertainment on Monday nights. This February, Black music will take centerstage with Black musicians featured on all three main Disney Springs stages on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday nights. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park continues to highlight Black culture through a variety of music and art found throughout the park. Move to the beats of the Congo with the Tam Tam Drummers, let loose with the Caribbean Street party music of Viva Gaia, then take home authentic imported African art, clothing, crafts, instruments and toys created by African artisans available at Mombasa Marketplace. At the Conservation Station, uncover the secrets of how Disney’s first Black animator, Floyd Norman, brought favorite characters to life using real life animals as inspiration Be sure to stop and take in some of the fun with Magic Shots across property featuring Princess Tiana in her element at Tiana’s place, selfies with Penny and friends from The Proud Family and more. Also, for Black History Month, explore both existing, returning, and brand-new Food & Beverage offerings across Walt Disney World. And new this year, each Food & Beverage location will now highlight the cast inspirations of dishes with photos and storytelling. Some new items debuting for February include: Shrimp & Grits featuring spicy shrimp, corn grits with bacon jam and crispy radish at Tiffins in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Tiana’s Mardi Gras Shake featuring a cinnamon vanilla milkshake topped with a Mardi Gras King Cake Doughnut served at Hollywood Scoops in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Gumbo with chicken, andouille sausage, okra and seasonings offered at ABC Commissary in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Pineapple Mule cocktail with Uncle Nearest Tennessee Whiskey, pineapple juice, ginger beer and mint available at Geyser Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Soulful Sunday Dinner at The Artist’s Palette at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spafeaturing a dinner plate of barbeque chicken, collard greens, black eyed peas and house-made cornbread. Jamaican Jerk Chicken Frites featuring Sweet n’ Hot jerk marinated chicken, pineapple salsa, scotch bonnet aioli and fries available at The Daily Poutine at Disney Springs.

Dragons are going to be making their way downtown Sanford, as The Dragon Vault, a fully immersive, fantasy-themed restaurant, will soon be opening in . What's a fantasy-themed restaurant you may ask? Think Dungeons and Dragons, Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, and you will probably be half way there! When you walk through the door, you are going to be entering another world, with the owners promising a theme park quality environment. The new restaurant will include a full-service bar, and and is scheduled to open later this year. According to The Orlando Business Journal, the restaurant will take up around 5000 square feet, occupying an iconic bank building at 101 E 1st St. that was built in 1923. The design of the new restaurant will incorporate the actual bank vault into the restaurant's design, hence the name of the restaurant, The Dragon Vault! The restaurant will also feature a fire pit where chef's will cook the restaurants meat and vegetables. The name behind the new ventures is the League of Extraordinary Dinning LLC, who also run the popular Nautilus Coffee, Argonaut Bar, and Batter Bar, all located here in Central Florida.

Walt Disney World are continuing to ramp up it's entertainment offering throughout the resort including the return of character meet and greets that had been shuttered since the resort was forced to close due to the covid outbreak. The latest boost to the resort's entertainment sees the return of much loved characters as well as the addition of new meet and greets to Hollywood Studios. Walt Disney World have shared the schedule for the characters that you can now meet in the park. The characters meet daily at the following times: Goofy & Powerline Max on Grand Avenue AM: 9:15, 9:4, 10:15, 10:45, 11:15, 11:45 PM: 12:15, 12:45, 2:15, 2:45, 3:15, 3:45, 4:15, 4:45 Mr. & Mrs. Incredible at Echo Lake AM: 9:30, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30 PM: 12:00, 12:30, 1:00, 2:30, 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 4:30, 5:00 The new Frozone and Edna Mode sighting on the lawn near Keystone Clothiers and Dockside Diner do not have any listed meet and greet times. The character will be rotating from 9 am to 5 pm. No date or times have been revealed for when Chip and Dale will be joined by new chipmunk Clarice!

Universal Orlando Resort has launched a brand new ticket offer for U.S. and Canada residents. Guests who purchases a 3-Day, 2-Park ticket will get two additional theme park days free. Starting as low as $234.99 per adult, plus tax, this offer allows guests to enjoy five adventure filled days of unlimited access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks. Plus, for only $35 more, guests can upgrade their ticket to include admission to Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme park during the 5 day period of the ticket. The ticket offer is valid for any five calendar days during an eight consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. Head on over to Universal's website for details. The new ticket offer is timed perfectly to coincide with the start of the parks huge Mardi Gras celebration - 2023 Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, which kicks off this weekend. Check out our complete guide to 2023 Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval here!