Mellow Mushroom celebrates 50 years of business this year and is set to mark the golden anniversary with celebratory events across locations including Central Florida. Mellow Mushroom – the stone-baked pizza brand with 160+ locations nationwide – celebrates 50 years of business this year and is set to mark the golden anniversary with a kaleidoscope of celebratory events across locations from May 14 to November 2024. Mellow Mushroom will commemorate five decades with the launch of a company-wide, limited-time-only anniversary menu featuring a mix of returning fan-favorites and brand new menu items – including an official 50th anniversary cocktail – alongside a 50th-inspired happy hour experience set to pop up at Mellow locations across the country, newly minted packaging, exclusive 50th themed Mellow Shop merchandise and more. “As the commemoration of this 50th milestone begins, we want to thank the Mellow Mushroom guests who have recognized our unwavering commitment to quality pizzas, munchies, salads and more for a half century,” said Anne Mejia, Senior VP Brand Development at Mellow Mushroom. “With each Mellow Mushroom restaurant, Mellow owners have created a truly unique and very Mellow experience where guests have celebrated countless first dates, birthdays, anniversaries, and other occasions throughout the last 50 years.” Mellow Mushroom Launches 50th Anniversary LTO Menu Items, May 14 - Nov. 11 Available across all Mellow Mushroom locations, the LTO menu items will be listed within a special 50th anniversary section of the menu. This section includes new items including: Super Pepp Pizza featuring a Mellow Red Sauce base topped with mozzarella, pepperoni, Mama Lil's Peppers, dollops of seasoned ricotta cheese & a swirl of Mike’s Hot Honey, Chop To It Salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet onions, Mama Lil's Peppers, black olives, provolone & julienned salami on a bed of chopped Romaine lettuce topped with house-made croutons served with gluten-free red wine vinaigrette on the side. Honey Sriracha Wings featuring nine double baked honey sriracha wings sprinkled with sesame seeds & chives served with celery, carrots & a choice of ranch or bleu cheese dressing. in addition to revived classic pizzas including The Marley featuring jerk chicken, mozzarella cheese, Italian sausage & sweet onions on a pesto base crust and The Maui Wowie featuring a pesto base with mozzarella, honey ham, pineapple, jerk chicken, banana peppers & applewood-smoked bacon. Mixed to perfection to complement the new flavors, the brand will also roll out an official 50th Anniversary cocktail – The Disco Peach made with Jim Beam Bourbon, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, peach, fresh sour & Coca-Cola – while the recently launched Lavender Groove Lemonade Mocktail (also available as a cocktail) makes its return! Mellow Pint Night: Cheers to 50 Years Leaning into the brand’s deep-rooted love for pizza and beer, Mellow Mushroom is toasting the big 5-0 with the launch of a pop-up happy hour set to take place across various Mellow locations throughout summer and fall. While guests can already find a huge selection of the best local and international beers on tap at every location, Mellow Pint Night will serve as a one-night-only experience at select Mellow restaurants in an effort to spotlight regional beer partners and their standout pours with featured collectible 50th anniversary pint glasses. Mellow Mushroom has been serving out-of-this-world, stone-baked pizzas since 1974. Founded in Atlanta, Georgia & now operating 160+ locations across 17 states, the iconic pizza bakers are all about being high on pizza, people and passion. Elevating the dining experience with A Higher Order of Pizza, Mellow Mushroom’s coveted secret dough recipe and red sauce have garnered a cult-like following over the years. Mellow Mushrooms’s menu of hand-tossed, stone-baked pizzas also includes calzones, hoagies, munchies, greens, sweets & more with plenty of gluten-free & vegan options. Behind the Mellow bar, guests can enjoy a selection of fun, specialty cocktails & mocktails, wines and a selection of local beers. Each location is locally owned and operated, providing a local flare baked in with Mellow’s trippy vibes, high quality, fresh ingredients and psychedelic artwork. Touted for its following and counterculture essence, Mellow Mushroom blends the boundaries between art, music, high-quality ingredients and passionate standards for dining. Mellow out… For more information visit www.mellowmushroom.com. Will you be celebrating with a visit to Mellow Mushroom? Let us know in the comments below! Gotta Go Orlando is run by locals, committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Exciting news for Harry Pottter fans as Universal Orlando Resort has announced a new Hogwarts Castle projection show, “Hogwarts Always.” Today, Monday, April 29, 2024, Universal Orlando Resort has announced several new, must-see experiences are coming to the resort this summer, offering exciting entertainment for the whole family. The lineup includes the opening of the new DreamWorks Land, plus a new nighttime lagoon show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, and a new daytime parade, Universal Mega Movie Parade. If that's not enough, Hogwarts Always, a new nighttime projection show will debut on June 14, 2024. Harry Potter fans will be able to enjoy a journey through iconic moments of a year at the beloved school of witchcraft and wizardry, all set against the majestic background of Hogwarts castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure, and ifthat's not enough... The show will feature four different ending, celebrating the four Hogwarts houses. On select nights, guests visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade will delight in the nighttime extravaganza, Hogwarts Always – an incredible new projection show that will take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts – all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts castle. From supply shopping in Diagon Alley, and the exhilarating ride aboard the Hogwarts Express, to participating in the Sorting Ceremony, celebrating the House Cup winner and so much more, this visually stunning experience promises to captivate witches, wizards and Muggles of all ages. The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat and more throughout the show. For more information about the new experiences opening at Universal Orlando Resort this summer, visit universalorlando.com/newfor2024. Are you excited for the new castle projection show coming to Universal Orlando this summer? Let us know in the comments below! Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

The new daytime parade, Universal Mega Movie Parade coming this summer to Universal Orlando Resort will feature many popular Universal franchises. Today, Monday, April 29, 2024, Universal Orlando Resort has announced a collection of new, must-see experiences that offer exciting entertainment for the whole family from day to night coming to the resort this sumer. The lineup includes the June 14 grand opening of DreamWorks Land, plus the debut of a riveting new nighttime lagoon show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, plus Hogwarts Always – an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. These new experiences will be followed on July 3, with debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, Universal Mega Movie Parade. Beginning July 3, some of the most beloved stories from Universal’s films will leap off the screen and land on the streets of Universal Studios Florida for Universal Mega Movie Parade. This spectacular new parade will feature well known floats from many of Universal's iconic movies - E.T., Back to the Future, Jaws, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Illumination’s Minions and Sing and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Universal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way. Guests will watch in awe as they see the massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop the Ghostbusters float, the colorful Caterbus and giant rainbows on the vibrant Trolls float, a live marching drum line perform the iconic movie score of Jaws alongside a float themed to the film, and – for the epic finale – a Gyrosphere, Raptors and the fierce Tyrannosaurus rex aboard the Jurassic World float – and so much more. Fans should also pay close attention to the parade to see if they can spot additional details that nod to iconic elements from the films. Universal Orlando has also confirmed the return of the Summer Tribute Store, which this year will complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade. More details about the Summer Tribute Store will be revealed soon. For more information about the new experiences opening at Universal Orlando Resort this summer, visit universalorlando.com/newfor2024. Are you excited for the parade coming to Universal Orlando this summer? Let us know in the comments below! Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Universal Orlando Resort has revealed that the long-time rumored new nighttime lagoon show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular will debut this summer. Get ready for an exciting summer at Universal Orlando, with the resort announcing today, Monday, April 29, 2024 that multiple new must-see experiences are coming to both Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Studios Florida. The lineup of new summertime offering includes the opening of DreamWorks Land,an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, and the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, Universal Mega Movie Parade. Universal Orlando has also confimred that the long-time rumoured new nighttime lagoon show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular will debut on June 14, and will include drones. Universal Orlando Resort say that the waters of the Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with the debut of the all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular. The exhilarating new show will celebrate the emotional power of music by leveraging the iconic scores and scenes from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions. Past attractions included in the new lagoon show include, Jaws, Ghostbusters, Back to the Future, King Kong, and more. Current attraction to feature will includeHarry Potter, Jurassic World, Transformers, E.T., Fast and Furious, Minions, and The Mummy. The lagoon show will also feature many of the new attrations coming to Universal Orlando's new theme park Epic Universe whic is set to debut next year, including – including Fantastic Beasts, Universal Monsters, How to Train Your Dragon, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Universal Orlando have confirmed that the new CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, will feature the use of drones, in addition to an impressive collection of technologies and special effects that will bring the show to life. The next-level lagoon show will feature 228 fountains that reach heights up to 131 feet, incredible 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted to each scene, and more than 600 drones – all coming together to envelop guests in a breathtaking display of unforgettable cinematic moments. Are you excited for the new lagoon show coming this summer? Let us know in the comments below! Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

From new daytime fun in DreamWorks Land and the Universal Mega Movie Parade to the reimagined nighttime energy of CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular, this year you can summer like you mean it at Universal Orlando Resort! This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will debut a captivating collection of new, must-see experiences that offer exciting entertainment for the whole family from day to night. The lineup of summertime adventures includes the June 14 grand opening of DreamWorks Land – the vibrant new themed environment inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda; CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular – a riveting new nighttime lagoon show; and Hogwarts Always – an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. And on July 3, guests will enjoy the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, Universal Mega Movie Parade. “We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences – coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks – will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.” Here are all the details about the new experiences coming to Universal Orlando Resort this summer: Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular Debuting June 14 at Universal Studios Florida, the waters of the Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular. The exhilarating new show will celebrate the emotional power of music by leveraging the iconic scores and scenes from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions – including Warner Bros. Pictures Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, Jurassic World, Jaws, Shrek, Ghostbusters, Trolls, Back to the Future, Universal Monsters, Transformers, How to Train Your Dragon, E.T., Fast and Furious, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Minions, The Mummy and King Kong. Just as awe-inspiring as the moments featured during CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular are the impressive collection of technologies and special effects that bring the show to life. The next-level lagoon show will feature 228 fountains that reach heights up to 131 feet, incredible 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted to each scene, and more than 600 drones – all coming together to envelop guests in a breathtaking display of unforgettable cinematic moments. Hogwarts Always Debuting June 14 at Universal Islands of Adventure, on select nights, guests visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade will delight in the nighttime extravaganza, Hogwarts Always – an incredible new projection show that will take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts – all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts castle. From supply shopping in Diagon Alley, and the exhilarating ride aboard the Hogwarts Express, to participating in the Sorting Ceremony, celebrating the House Cup winner and so much more, this visually stunning experience promises to captivate witches, wizards and Muggles of all ages. The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat and more throughout the show. Universal Mega Movie Parade Beginning July 3, some of the most beloved stories from Universal’s films will leap off the screen and land on the streets of Universal Studios Florida for Universal Mega Movie Parade – a spectacular celebration of iconic movies E.T., Back to the Future, Jaws, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Illumination’s Minions and Sing and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Universal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way. Guests will watch in awe as they see the massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop the Ghostbusters float, the colorful Caterbus and giant rainbows on the vibrant Trolls float, a live marching drum line perform the iconic movie score of Jaws alongside a float themed to the film, and – for the epic finale – a Gyrosphere, Raptors and the fierce Tyrannosaurus rex aboard the Jurassic World float – and so much more. Fans should also pay close attention to the parade to see if they can spot additional details that nod to iconic elements from the films. Universal Orlando’s Summer Tribute Store will complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade. More details about the Summer Tribute Store will be revealed soon. DreamWorks Land The highly-anticipated new DreamWorks Land will make its official debut on June 14 at Universal Studios Florida – inviting guests to explore the vivid worlds of some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. The expansive new area will feature interactive play areas, character meet and greets, an all-new indoor live show experience, unique treats and photo-worthy moments that are fun for the whole family. Guests will be able to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, interact with Po in the Panda Village, encounter characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse and so much more. Plus, guests will be transported into the worlds of some of their favorite characters in DreamWorks Imagination Celebration – a multisensory live show that will bring beloved DreamWorks stories to life like never before. Starting now, guests visiting the parks can gear up for the amazing entertainment coming this summer with specialty merchandise celebrating the new experiences, including clothing, drinkware, headbands themed to beloved DreamWorks characters, and more. The selection also includes new original interactive bubble wands inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World. The bubble wands will activate fun features when interacting with other wands and will also interact with select Universal Mega Movie Parade floats when the parade debuts on July 3. More details will be revealed in the next few months. For more information about the new experiences opening at Universal Orlando Resort this summer, visit universalorlando.com/newfor2024. Are you excited for the new additions to Universal Orlando this summer? Let us know in the comments below! Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

The raddest celebration this side of the millennium is coming to Daytona Beach in September, and even more celebrities have just been announced! 90s Con Florida, created by Thats4Entertainment, will take place at Ocean Center, Daytona Beach, on September 13, 14 and 15, 2024. Following a successful 2023 convention in Tampa that brought together your favorite 90s stars from Boy Meets World, Sabrina The Teenage Witch, Halloweentown, Beverly Hills 90210, Full House, Charmed, Family Matters, and Saved By The Bell, 90s Con Florida is heading east for the 2024 show. Already announced are cast reunions from Melrose Place, Charmed, Sweet Valley High, and Brotherly Love, and now the latest news is that caste members from 7th Heaven are set to reunite at 90s Con in September. 7th Heaven was an American family drama television series created and produced by Brenda Hampton. The series debuted on August 26, 1996, on The WB, where it aired for ten seasons, making it the longest-running series in the history of the network. Following the shutdown of The WB and its merger with UPN to form The CW, the series aired on the new network on September 25, 2006, for its eleventh and final season, airing its final episode on May 13, 2007. The series follows Reverend Eric Camden, a Protestant minister living in the fictional town of Glen Oak, California, and his wife Annie as they deal with the drama of raising five children ranging in age from babies to adults with families of their own. Cast members attending the show in Daytona Beach are Beverley, Barry, Catherine, David and Mackenzie who will be at the show for autographs, selfies, photo ops and a Q&A panel. In addition to the celebrity guests, fans can expect vendors, cosplay competitions, panels, and much much more. Read on for all the celebrity guests already announced for 90's Con this year. The cast of 7th Heaven - Beverley, Barry, Catherine, David and Mackenzie will be appearing at this year;s 90s Con. 90s Con Florida will feature a Charmed reunion, welcoming back to the show, Shannen Docherty, Rose McGowan, Holly Marie Coms, Dorian Gregory, Brian Krause, and for the first time ever Jennifer Rhodes!!! Former cast members of Melrose Place will be attending 90s Con, with Laura Leighton, Josie Bissett, Grant Show, Daphne Zuniga and Brooke Langton all attending the fan convention. The occasion is extra special as it marks Leighton and Langton's first-ever fan convention appearances. Also making a first time convention appearance is sisters Brittany and Cynthia Daniel, stars of Sweet Valley High. The duo will be at the show all three days for autographs, selfies, photo ops and a Q&A panel. Even more siblings will be attending 90s Con Florida, with the show welcoming the stars of Brotherly Love, the Lawrence brothers! Matt, Andy and Joey will be with at the convention for autographs, selfies, photo ops and a Q&A panel!. Stay tuned for more celebrity announcements coming your way!! Tickets for 90s Con Florida are on sale now. Day passes range from $40 to $60, or you can grab a weekend pass starting at $125, and why not! VIP packages are also available for purchase. To book tickets to this totally rad event head to the 90's Con website, no dial up needed! Are you excited for the celebrities coming to 90s Con Florida? Let us know in the comments below. For the latest news from Orlando, and throughout Central Florida , follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up for the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Citrus Club is celebrating the official grand re-opening of the downtown social and city club, redefining luxury and hospitality in the heart of the city. Invited Clubs, the world’s largest owner and operator of private clubs, officially debuted its revamped venue Citrus Club on April 25. Located on the 18th floor of Citrus Center in downtown Orlando, the transformation of the social and city club is stunning. “We are incredibly excited to reveal the newly-renovated Citrus Club to our esteemed members and guests. This transformation represents a significant milestone for us as we continue to elevate the standard of excellence in private club experiences," said James Gelfand, Citrus Club Manager. "With its vibrant new look and enhanced offerings, we are confident that Citrus Club will provide memorable experiences for all who enter our club. We look forward to welcoming our members and guests to indulge in the luxurious ambiance and unparalleled hospitality that define Citrus Club.” Through its multi-million-dollar transformation, Citrus Club has modernized its offerings while solidifying its commitment to the downtown community. As a cornerstone of Orlando's business and social scene for more than five decades, the club’s extensive renovation capitalizes on its rich history and brand legacy while introducing a new, fresh zest appeal, setting the stage for an elevated member experience. In addition to interior design enhancements throughout the 26,000-square-foot-space, the refresh includes the debut of two innovative new culinary concepts, The Grove and Tangerine. The club's robust events and creative programming schedule remains a cornerstone of its operations. As the premier destination for shared business, social, and community experiences, Citrus Club is dedicated to delivering exceptional value to its esteemed members each and every day. The club’s commitment is reflected through a range of offerings designed to enrich every aspect of members' lives, including: Culinary experiences: Driven by Executive Chef Chris McKenna, Citrus Club offers casual drinks and dining at The Grove, as well as an upscale dining experience with Tangerine, both boasting fresh, locally sourced ingredients and incredible views of Orlando’s city skyline. Work and office spaces: Citrus Club welcomes club members and business professionals to utilize the luxe, yet functional office spaces perfect for co-working and remote work environments. Business and private events: Members and guests are greeted with an array of private banquet and meeting rooms designed for any occasion, large or small. From intimate social events to business meetings, Citrus Club provides refreshed event spaces complete with world-class technology and equipment delivery services to fit any and all group experiences. Social programming: From networking events to live entertainment, club members are invited to enjoy exclusive programming at weekly social events developed and hosted by Citrus Club to foster connections among members in a one-of-a-kind community. Membership: Through the XLife City membership, club members can enjoy preferred pricing on golf and dining, access to courses and resorts across the nation, and savings that allow patrons to pack even more fun into every Invited Clubs experience. Those interested in becoming a club member can select from two membership categories: Executive XLife City (adults ages 40 or over) or Young Executive XLife City (adults ages 39 or younger). Citrus Club is now accepting applications for membership, as it seeks to grow its community of business professionals and socialites in the Orlando region. For more information about Citrus Club and membership inquiries, visit www.invitedclubs.com/clubs/citrus-club. Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Universal Orlando Resort has revealed the opening date for the currently under construction DreamWorks Animation Land at Universal Studios Florida. Get ready to play in a colorful, imaginative new land at Universal Studios Florida! Universal Orlando Resort has revealed that everyone will be able to meet Shrek and splash in his swamp. Scream with laughter on the Trollercoaster. And learn kung fu moves with Po, when DreamWorks Animation Land opens on June 14, 2024. The colourful new DreamWorks Animation land will include favorite characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse in the DreamWorks Character Zone, plus themed, interactive play spaces and attractions that will feature popular franchises Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Entertainment includes, a new live show, DreamWorks Imagination Celebration, where DreamWorks Animation stories leap off the screen and come to life. The multisensory adventure combines hit pop songs, high-energy dancing, advanced technology, and more to create an imaginative party atmosphere that will transport guests to the worlds of their favorite characters within the all-new DreamWorks Theater. Food options will include Swamp Snacks and Troll Treats, plus High Five Hideaway will be the land’s retail location, offering merchandise including plush and apparel from Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda, Gabby’s Dollhouse, and more. The new land taking over the previous home of Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone, read on for full details on the enchanting and playful new experiences coming to DreamWorks Land... Shrek Like ogres and onions, guests can peel back layers of fun in Shrek’s oasis to discover “ogre-the-top” adventures at every turn. Shrek’s Swamp Meet: Guests can visit Shrek’s Swamp Meet to interact with beloved characters Shrek, Princess Fiona and Donkey, the noble steed eager to joke around and converse with guests, just outside of Shrek’s cottage. Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres: This ogre-sized play area features four fun slides, wet play areas and a playground where guests can climb, bounce and splash around as well as venture into Shrek’s outhouse. Mama Luna Feline Fiesta: The blockbuster film, Puss in Boots 2: The Last Wish, comes to life with this new interactive experience that takes place in Mama Luna’s retirement home for cats. Here, guests get to play with Mama Luna’s many cats on vivid interactive screens activated by buttons, bells, maracas and levers. They might even spot the one and only Puss in Boots himself. King Harold’s Swamp Symphony: Guests can create their own melodious masterpiece as they trigger a choir of ever-changing frog ribbits by continually stomping on an array of interactive lily pads. Swamp Snacks: Families can feast like an ogre at this new kiosk, which will serve scrumptious snacks inspired by Shrek, including Shrekzel, Far Far A Waffle, Frozen Ogre and more. Troll’s A magnificent fountain featuring favorite Trolls characters Poppy and Branch sits at the center of the Trolls Village where “fantastamazing” energy flows and guests can relax and “find their happy place.” Trolls Trollercoaster: After strolling through a dazzling marquee starring cherished Trolls characters Poppy, Viva, Tiny Diamond, Satin and Chenille, guests of all ages can take a ride on the iconic Caterbus escaping evil spiders as they speed along a bright orange and yellow track aboard this family-friendly rollercoaster. Poppy’s Playground: Nestled under a giant, 20-foot mushroom is Poppy’s Playground – a shaded play area featuring colorful flowers and bugs with a bountiful array of fun bouncing and climbing structures for the youngest of trolls. Trolls Treats: Poppy’s boombox from Trolls Band Together has been transformed into a playful kiosk that offers up brightly colored Trolls ice cream treats inspired by Poppy and Branch like the pink lemonade-flavored Poppy-licious Pink and huckleberry-flavored BroZone Berry. High Five Hideaway: Cloud Guy hosts this all-new retail location featuring the latest merchandise including apparel, plush and accessories from Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda, Gabby’s Dollhouse and more. Po Live! Guests embark on thrilling and fun adventures alongside the lovable panda Po from the action-packed world of the Kung Fu Panda movies. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp: Inspired by the hit Kung Fu Panda films, this all-new play area brings the Panda Village to life like never before. Within both wet and dry play areas, guests have the opportunity to help the pandas wash and dry their laundry with enormous water cannons, dump buckets, giant fans and more. Guests will also encounter fun elements throughout the experience, including an interactive gong, mischievous, giggling baby pandas, and oversized merry-go-round noodle bowls from Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop. Po Live!: This digital, interactive meet and greet experience gives guests the opportunity to interact with the famous Dragon Warrior himself as he teaches them cool Kung Fu moves, cooks some delicious stir fry and babysits his little cousin, Ling Ling…all at the same time. For all the very latest news from Universal Orlando Resort, click here. Are you excited for the new DreamWorks Land at Universal Orlando? Let us know in the comments below! Gotta Go Orlando is run by locals, committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Brevard Zoo in Melbourne has shared exciting news that Tika the black-handed spider monkey has given birth, Brevard Zoo has shared the exciting news that Tika the black-handed spider monkey has given birth, and both Mom and baby are doing great. This was Tika’s eighth birth, and she has been showing off her refined super-mom skills. The spider monkeys often give birth overnight, and their keepers discover the new addition the next morning. However, this time, Tika’s water broke midday on April 17, so her care team was able to be nearby and excitedly observe the birth. Two of Tika’s other daughters, Blue Steel and Sarah, immediately took an interest in their youngest sibling. Mom has allowed them to watch and investigate the baby. Other troop members have showed interest as well, but Tika is good about setting her boundaries with everyone, and the others respect it. For the next few months, the baby’s day-to-day life will look very similar to a newborn human baby: sleeping and eating. They will also cling tightly onto Mom, never leaving her side. “Once the baby gains some confidence and coordination, they will climb off Mom for short periods of time. They will begin building new relationships with the other monkeys in the troop and continue hitching rides from Tika until about a year old.” said Assistant Curator of Animals, Sidnee Santana-Mellor. With such a tight grip on Mom, it will be a while before the zoo do any hands-on exams or find out the sex. They both will continue to bond in a comfortable environment, free from unnecessary interruptions. At this stage, it can be hard to catch a glimpse of this mother-baby duo in their Rainforest Revealed habitat. Your best chance of spotting the newest Zoo baby will be during morning hours. Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables the zoo to continue to serve the community and continue their vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs. Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Experience the prehistoric age and encounter your favorite dinosaurs up close! Dinosaur Adventure is a one-of-a-kind exhibit featuring realistic, life-sized dinosaurs that come alive with their life-like movement and roars. As part of Dinosaur Adventure, children of all ages will enjoy a variety of activities: fossil searches, Jurassic jeeps or dino scooters, themed obstacle courses, riding their favorite dinosaur, and more! The whole family will also be amused by live entertainment featuring a baby dinosaur meet and greet. Dinosaur Adventure roars into Orlando's Central Florida Fairgrounds for two days only, on Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5, 2024. Tickets prices are $36 for children (Ages 2-12) with children under 2 free, this includes unlimited dinosaur rides, bounce houses (socks required), jurassic jeeps or ATVs, rolling dinosaur rides, coloring station, fossil digs, and live entertainment. Adults pay $26 including access to dinosaur exhibit, coloring station, fossil dig, and live entertainment. Tickets are available now. Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Dr Phillips Center will turn upside this summer as the uniquely immersive comedy musical Stranger Sings comes to Orlando. Take a trip back to Hawkins, Indiana: 1983… when times were simpler, hair was bigger and unsupervised children were getting snatched by inter-dimensional creatures. Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical is a hilarious “upside down” take on the hit Netflix series - Stranger Things, and all its campy 1980s glory. Join Mike, Eleven, Lucas, Dustin and the whole Hawkins gang for a night of adventure, thrills, pubescent angst, heavy synth, poor parenting, convoluted love triangles, dancing monsters and maybe, just maybe ... justice for everyone’s favorite missing ginger, Barb Holland. Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical of your Stranger Things dreams! Seriously, if you love the Netflix Series, you'll love this... This production will take to the stage at Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater within Dr Phillips Center, kicking off on Halloween, October 31 – November 3, 2024. Get tickets now. Gotta Go Orlando is rcommitted to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.

Two of rock's biggest bands, Staind and Breaking Benjamin, are hitting the road for a fall 2024 tour, making for a can't miss show with support from Daughtry and Lakeview. Staind and Breaking Benjamin, two titans of the early 2000s rock scene, announced their highly anticipated fall co-headline tour in March, with Florida fans left disappointed with no shows in the sunshine state. Fortunately this has now been rectified, with the addition of a show in Tampa, with the tour stopping off at MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre on September 25. Daughtry will join as direct support with Lakeview as the opening act. Tickets are on sale Friday, May 3 at 10 am, with a Live Nation Presale on Wednesday, May 1 at 10 am with Code: SOUNDCHECK. Get tickets here. Staind is comprised of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Aaron Lewis, lead guitarist Mike Mushok, bassist and backing vocalist Johnny April, and drummer Sal Giancarelli. The band was formed in 1995 in their hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts. Over the course of their career, Staind has released eight studio albums and twelve top 10 singles, selling over 15 million albums worldwide. Break the Cycle, released in 2001 and RIAA certified 5x platinum, featured the smash single, “It’s Been Awhile,” one of the most played songs in modern rock radio history, spending 20 weeks at number 1. In 2023, Staind released their first studio album in twelve years, Confessions of the Fallen, which debuted number 1 on Billboard’s Rock Album chart, and spawned two number 1 singles at rock radio. Breaking Benjamin has consistently dominated the rock charts since their debut in 2002 with “Saturate.” With ten # 1 hits, platinum and multi-platinum albums, 8.5 billion streams globally, and a social following of over 6.5 million, they’ve solidified their global influence and devoted fan base. Their last release, “AURORA,” earned them their 10th # 1 rock radio hit with “Far Away ft. Scooter Ward.” Their previous album, EMBER debuted at # 3 on the Billboard Top 200, marking their fourth Top 5 debut. Their track record includes # 1 hits like “Red Cold River” and “Torn in Two.” Both AURORA and EMBER achieved Top 10 status in multiple countries and # 1 spots across various charts, including Top Alternative Albums, Top Rock Albums, Top Hard Rock Albums and Top Digital Albums. Gotta Go Orlando is committed to offering locals and visitors the best coverage of things to do in Orlando, and Central Florida, including the latest entertainment news, live music, theater, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, events, culture, and more. For the latest entertainment news and things to do in Orlando, and throughout Central Florida, join us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Never miss any Orlando news! Sign up to the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter. Got a story to tell? Contact us here. To advertise with us, click here, and to list your upcoming event with us, submit it here.