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Central Florida's roller coaster weather has plunged Orlando back int the mid 60s with two Orlando area water parks deciding its far too cold to open! Recently Central Florida's temperature has been more up and down than a theme park roller coaster, and again today, Thursday, January 4, temperatures are only reaching the mid 60s keeping two Orlando area water parks closed. Universal's Volcano Bay and SeaWorld's Aquatica Water Park are both closed today, with the parks scheduled to reopen tomorrow, Friday, January 5, 2024. Cold weather will continue throughout today and into tonight, with clear skies and chilly temperatures allowing lows to fall into the low-mid 50s. Tomorrow, Friday, 5, temps will rebound, reaching into the low to mid 70. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Whether you're a visitor to Walt Disney World, or an Annual Passholder, there is big changes coming to the resort that will affect your visit in a positive way from January 2024. In addition to exciting new attractions, restaurants. and more coming to Walt Disney World Resort in 2024, Walt Disney World is introducing some exciting changes that will make the guest experience simpler and easier! Walt Disney World Park Hoppin, Park Pass Updates, and Disney Dining Plans All-Day Park Hopping is Returning to Walt Disney World Starting January 9, 2024, guests with Park Hopper benefits or an Annual Pass will be able to visit another theme park at any time during park hours. This is a huge change from the previous rule that allowed Park Hopper access only after 2 pm. Walt Disney World is Removing Theme Park Reservation Requirements for Date-Based Tickets: Starting with park visits on Jan. 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. When getting your ticket, you will simply select a start date for Jan. 9, 2024 or later, complete your purchase and then you will be all set! For reference, date-based tickets are the standard ticket option for guests. For other admission types, including non-dated tickets, theme park reservations may still be required, You can check which admission types require park reservations by visiting DisneyWorld.com/ThemeParkReservations before you purchase your tickets. On days when theme park reservations are required, those with Annual Passes or certain non-dated tickets can still take advantage of the updated Park Hopper access after visiting their first park. Walt Disney World is Introducing Good-To-Go Days for Annual Passholders Starting January 11, Walt Disney World will offer select days on which Annual Passholders may visit Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation. Once introduced, WDW will roll out these good-to-go days on an ongoing basis. Blockout dates will still apply. Guests will need to check the Annual Passholder admissions calendar within the My Disney Experience app to view what days are “good-to-go”, and for which theme park. Dates will be added periodically beginning January 11, as availability allows. The Popular Disney Dining Plans Return in 2024: Time to eat! Disney dining plans will be coming back as an option for guests staying at Walt Disney Resort hotels who purchase a vacation package with Disney starting with stays beginning Jan. 9, 2024. Guests will be able to choose from two popular options: Packages that include either the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan. Both plans will be a great value for families with young children with access to many spectacular food and beverage offerings across Walt Disney World. The operational changes coming to Walt Disney World is not the only big change coming to the resort in 2024, with new and exciting additions throughout the resort including new rides and attractions, together with new restaurants, entertainment, and more! Highlights at the most magical place on earth in 2024 include the reimagining of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, plus also at MK, The Country Bears are getting a brand new show, featuring all new Disney songs. Plus, that's not all, over at Disney's Hollywood Studios, the park is getting a reimagined Little Mermaid show, and Ahsoka will be added to the Star Tours attractions. At Disney's Animal Kingdom, It’s Tough To Be A Bug is being replaced with a brand new Zootopia attraction, and the re-imagining of EPCOT continues with CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza due to open in early 2024. Discover everything new coming to Walt Disney World in 2024 HERE. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Winter Park non-profit performance venue, Blue Bamboo Center For The Arts has take its final bow at its home on Kentucky Avenue citing rising rent for the decision to move. Popular jazz venue, Blue Bamboo Center For The Arts has presented their last show in their Winter Park home on Kentucky Ave, when Suzy Park took to the stage on Saturday, December 23. The venue has hosted more than 1,500 jazz shows since opening in 2015, but has been forced to move due to rising rent. The good news is that the venue has already found a new home just three miles away in the Packing District, at 2586 N. Orange Blossom Trail, with plans to reopen in the new location in spring/summer of 2024. Blue Bamboo say that some renovation will be necessary to convert the space, and hope to announce reopening plans soon. While under construction, Blue Bamboo are planning shows at the Winter Park Library, Casa Feliz, Crealde School of Art, and the Winter Park Women’s Club. You can donate to the building fund, and keep the music alive at Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts. BlueBambooArtCenter.com. Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable corporation. Registration #: CH46010. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

The City of Kissimmee's Movie in the Park returns with KUA once again presenting the community event at Kissimmee Lakefront Park. Kissimmee Utility Authority, in partnership with the City of Kissimmee, will once again host a free Movie in the Park event on Friday, Jan. 5, at the Veterans Lawn of Kissimmee Lakefront Park. The movie event is part of KUA’s annual 6-month Movie in the Park series, held on the first Friday of every month, beginning October through March. The event will feature “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem,” shown on a giant 50-foot screen. The movie will also feature closed captioning for the hearing impaired. Onsite concessions will be available. Attendees will enjoy KUA’s inflatable Kids Power Zone, a craft station, free popcorn, prize giveaways and a free photo booth. An adult must accompany children participating in inflatable activities to sign a waiver. To sign the waiver ahead of time, visit kua.com/waiver. Attendees can also learn how to lower their monthly electric bills and can receive on-site energy audits by visiting the KUA Green Team at the utility’s new SunCatcher Solar Energy Trailer. Children can also learn how to enhance energy efficiency in their own homes through a lesson on energy efficiency. Activities begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the movie at sunset. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Founded in 1901, KUA is Florida’s sixth largest community-owned utility powering 90,000 customers in Osceola County, Florida. For more information, visit www.kua.com. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

What is described as Florida's first board gaming tabletop tavern, is closing its doors forever at the end of this month, January 2024. Popular tabletop board gaming bar The Cloak & Blaster located at 12226 Corporate Blvd, Ste 192, Orlando, near UCF's main campus, has announced that it is permanently closed after almost a decade. The bar revealed the sad news on social media that the business is to close at the end of January 2024 due to ongoing financial troubles caused by skyrocketing food and beverage costs, debt accrued during the COVID shutdown, and a less than successful move which resulted in a dwindling customer base mainly due to a poorly received new food menu, and changes to the bars gaming policies. The bar will announce a closing date soon and details on specials in the final days. Here is the message in full that was posted on social media: "Well, here at last, dear friends, comes the end of our fellowship. I will not say, “Do not weep,” for not all tears are an evil. When we opened our doors a decade ago, we couldn’t imagine where we’d be today. The idea of drinking in a tavern while rolling dice was a fantasy left to the fantasy books! Now it seems you can’t go into a bar or brewery without seeing a table of friends casting spells or a special themed beer/game collab. We’re so proud and happy to realize our goals of growing the local geek community. There is nothing more fulfilling than to witness the evolution of a comfortable, accessible, safe, and thriving network of nerds. We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, and we’ve shared a lifetime of memories. But, like all good adventures, there has to come an end, and our final chapter will close at the end of January. This likely isn’t the first post you’ve read from a small business closing in 2024 and it won’t be the last. Since reopening at our UCF location in 2021, our food and beverage costs have skyrocketed over 300%. When our original lease ended, we were ecstatic to escape a property that had become wholly unsafe for employees and patrons alike. We found our current location and tried to start anew, but we were forced to adapt to the existing kitchen and an overhaul of our entire menu. This was not received well, and it has been a heartbreaking hurdle for us to overcome without the financial ability to rebuild our kitchen and gas lines. In an effort to pay our employees a living wage and navigate this economy, we adopted a QR code system and updated our gaming policies to more closely mimic other board game venues. We were happy to unveil our bright, clean, upgraded space after years of complaints that the pub was too dark to see anything. This, unfortunately, was also not received well. Add in new and random fees on top of the debt we accrued to survive COVID, and it’s been a struggle every day to keep our doors open. While some of these issues can be mitigated with good business, that’s in short supply in our post-pandemic world. Times are tough for everyone, and closing early has become our new normal. We never wanted this dream to end, but it has become our devastating reality that we are unable to continue The Cloak & Blaster. Soon we’ll announce our closing date and details on specials in the final days. We extend our unending gratitude to each and every one of you who have spoken friend, entered, and enjoyed our hospitality. Thank you to so many incredible staff, volunteers, and patrons who have worked over the years to help us breathe life into Cloak. Thank you for 10 years of unforgettable memories and the honor of a lifetime. Well, here at last, dear friends, comes the end of our fellowship. I will not say, “Do not weep,” for not all tears are an evil." To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Celebrate Three Kings Day with an extra special treat available at Jaleo in Disney Springs. It’s almost time to celebrate Three Kings Day, and Jaleo at Disney Springs is celebrating with an extra special treat. Día de Reyes, or Three Kings Day, is inspired by the story of the Three Wise Men – Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar – who brought gifts to the baby Jesus in the days after he was born. In Spain, this holiday is celebrated with even more excitement (at least by children!) than Christmas, as it’s the day when kids receive gifts and eat Roscón de Reyes. Chef José’s Roscón de Reyes is flavored with orange blossom, caramelized cherries, oranges, melon, and almonds. Choose between with or without whipped cream when placing your order.Each Roscón de Reyes has a “Rey” (king) figurine baked inside. Whoever finds the King is said to have good luck for the rest of the year! PRE-ORDER YOUR ROSCÓN DE REYES Available for pre-order, these special cakes serve 6-8 people and be ordered with pickups between January 4-6, depending on location. Don't miss out, you can pre order now on 321 348 3211, order by the slice, or indulge in a whole crown. At Jaleo in Disney Springs you can kick back, relax and feast on an incredibly impressive lunch-and-dinner menu that showcases the rich, regional diversity of traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine. This festive eatery features an extensive variety of tapas—the popular, shared plates of Spain—authentic paellas cooked over a wood-fired pit, cheeses, salads and other signature specialties sure to please. A premier selection of sangrias, Spanish wines and sherries is also available. Imagined through the creative lens of Chef José Andrés and his team, Jaleo brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain by showcasing the rich regional diversity of Spanish cuisine. Celebrating the traditional as well as the cutting-edge, Jaleo offers a taste of Spain in a festive, stylish, and casual atmosphere. First opening in downtown Washington, DC in 1993, Jaleo has evolved to represent modern Spain at every moment. With each new restaurant in Maryland, Virginia, Las Vegas and Orlando, it embraces the local community while staying true to its roots: providing a comfortable, welcoming space in which to explore, discover and share the incredible spirit of Spain. At Jaleo, plates are designed to be shared. But these are not just any small plates. They’re the best authentically Spanish and local ingredients, simply prepared, and enjoyed with good friends and conversation. Inspired by the traditional dishes of José’s childhood and elevated through his experiences, talents and creativity, Jaleo’s cuisine is authentic Spain with finesse. Along with signature tapas, the savory paellas, superb sangria, and a wide selection of the finest Spanish cheeses, wines, and sherries ensure that you’ll always find something wholly unique and exciting. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Walt Disney World has announced big discounts on resort hotel rooms for stays of 5 plus nights this Spring and Summer at the resort. Walt Disney World has announced new discounts that are available for EVERYONE staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel on select dates this Spring and Summer. Guests can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels when staying 5 consecutive nights or longer, or for guests staying less than 5 nights, saving of up to 30% are available. This new offer from Walt Disney World offer is valid for stays most nights from July 8 to October 3, 2024. Other savings may be available for stays from March 25 to July 7, 2024 This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. Save Up To 35% For stays most nights from March 25 to July 7, 2024: 30% for stays of 5 or more nights, 25% for stays of 1 to 4 nights For stays most nights from July 8 to October 3, 2024: 35% for stays of 5 or more nights, 30% for stays of 1 to 4 nights Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village Disney's Beach Club Resort Disney's BoardWalk Inn Disney's Contemporary Resort Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney's Old Key West Resort Disney's Riviera Resort Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Yacht Club Resort The Villas at Disnev's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Save Up To 30% For stays most nights from March 25 to July 7, 2024: 25% for stays of 5 or more nights, 20% for stays of 1 to 4 nights For stays most nights from July 8 to October 3, 2024: 30% for stays of 5 or more nights, 25% for stays of 1 to 4 nights The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Save Up To 25% For stays most nights from March 25 to July 7, 2024: 20% for stays of 5 or more nights, 15% for stays of 1 to 4 nights For stays most nights from July 8 to October 3, 2024: 25% for stays of 5 or more nights, 20% for stays of 1 to 4 nights Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Disney’s All-Star Music Resort Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites Disney’s Pop Century Resort Save Up To 15% For stays most nights from March 25 to July 7, 2024: 10% For stays most nights from July 8 to October 3, 2024: 15% Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Save Up To 10% For stays most nights from March 25 to October 3, 2024:10% Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Club Level at Disney Deluxe and Disney Moderate Resort Hotels Suites at Disney Deluxe and Disney Moderate Resort Hotels The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on the nondiscounted price for the same room. Length of stay requirements may apply. Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. Must be consecutive-night stays. Offer excludes the following room types: 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, Pool View at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Valid admission is required to enjoy the theme parks and is not included in this offer. Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Walt Disney World has announced discounts on resort hotel rooms for stays in Spring and early Summer 2024 for Florida Residents. Walt Disney World has announced new discounts exclusively for Florida Residents on resort stays for spring and summer 2024. Florida residents can save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights from March 25 through July 7, 2024. The length of stay requirement is a minimum of 1 night and a maximum of 14 nights.. This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. Save 30% Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village Disney's Beach Club Resort Disney's BoardWalk Inn Disney's Contemporary Resort Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney's Old Key West Resort Disney's Riviera Resort Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Yacht Club Resort The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Save 25% The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Disney's Coronado Springs Resort Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside Save 20% Disney's AlI-Star Movies Resort Disney's AlI-Star Music Resort Disney's AlI-Star Sports Resort Disney's Art of Animation Resort - Family Suites Disney's Pop Century Resort Save 10% Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House Disney's Art of Animation Resort -Standard Rooms Disney's Beach Club Villas Disney's BoardWalk Villas Disney's Polvnesian Village Resort Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disnev's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter These room types are excluded: Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, Pool View at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, and The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings are based on the non-discounted price a non-Florida resident pays for the same room. Advance reservations are required. Proof of Florida residency is required at check-in. This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Additional per-adult charges may apply if there are more than two adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Walt Disney World has revealed a timeframe for when Kali River Rapid's at Disney's Animal Kingdom reopens from its annual winter refurbishment. Animal Kingdom’s popular raft ride, Kali River Rapids is closing for it's annual refurbishment, beginning Monday, January 8, 2024. The last day of operations for the water ride will be Sunday, January 7. and now we know roughly when we can expect to see the water ride at Walt Disney World re-open. It was expected that the ride would be closed for at least a month, but Disney now say that the attraction will not open until at least mid March. In 2023, the ride closed on January 9, reopening on February 26, while the previous years refurbishment commenced on November 1, 2021 through until January 4, 2022. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

Walt Disney World has announced that Annual Passholders can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney World hotels in late Spring and early Summer 2024. Walt Disney World has announced new Annual Passholder discounts on resort stays for spring and summer 2024. Annual Passholders can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels, valid for stays most nights at select Disney Resort hotels, from March 25 through July 7, 2024. This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. Save 35% Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village Disney's Beach Club Resort Disney's BoardWalk Inn Disney's Contemporary Resort Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney's Old Key West Resort Disney's Riviera Resort Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Disney's Wilderness Lodge Disney's Yacht Club Resort The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Save 30% The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Disney's Coronado Springs Resort Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside Save 25% Disney's AlI-Star Movies Resort Disney's AlI-Star Music Resort Disney's AlI-Star Sports Resort Disney's Art of Animation Resort - Family Suites Disney's Pop Century Resort Save 10% Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House Disney's Art of Animation Resort -Standard Rooms Disney's Beach Club Villas Disney's BoardWalk Villas Disney's Polvnesian Village Resort Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disnev's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter Offer Details Eligibility Passholder must present a valid Walt Disney World Annual Pass at check-in. Valid Travel Dates Most nights from March 25 to July 7, 2024 Length of Stay Requirements Minimum – 1 night, Maximum – 14 nights To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

A free dining plan is available exclusively for Disney+ subscribers when purchasing select vacation packages to Walt Disney World during summer 2024. Disney+ Subscribers can grab themselves a FREE Disney Dining Plan at Walt Disney World when they purchase a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package with a room at a select Disney Resort hotel and a theme park ticket with a Park Hopper option. The offer is available for arrivals most nights at Walt Disney World from July 1 to September 30, 2024. With this exclusive Disney+ offer, the type of dining plan depends on the Disney Resort hotel booked, stays at a Disney Deluxe or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotel include the full Disney Dining Plan, and stays at a Disney Moderate or Disney Value Resort hotel include the Quick Service Dining Plan. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. The Disney+ subscriber must stay in the room. Advance reservations are required. This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To feature your business or events with Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.

There is always something new to discover at Walt Disney World, and in 2024, there is tons of new additions coming to the resort! Read on for the details! It's no secret that Orlando has the best theme parks in the world, and there is always something new and exciting to experience at Walt Disney World, and in 2024 the most magical place on earth has new rides and attractions, restaurants, entertainment, and even a new hotel! Highlights at Walt Disney World in 2024 include Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, a reimagined Little Mermaid attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and a brand new DVC tower at Polynesian Village Resort. Of course, timelines are subject to change, but as of right now, visitors, and locals alike, will have lots of new experiences to look forward to at Walt Disney World in 2024, so hold on tight and enjoy the ride! Walt Disney World 2023 brought many new additions to Walt Disney World, including the opening of TRON: Lightcycle/Run at Magic Kingdom in April, and the multi-month transformation of EPCOT, including the October opening of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, and the December opening of World Celebration Gardens including Dreamers Point, where guests can sit beside a new bronze statue of the original dreamer himself, Walt the Dreamer. Also in December, an all-new nighttime show, Luminous: Symphony of Us debuted at EPCOT, plus the new additions don't end there, in 2024 and beyond, Disney fans have tons of new additions to look forward to. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure The big news from Walt Disney World is that sometime in 2024, Walt Disney World will unveil the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, which Walt Disney Imagineering are currenly creating from the shuttered Splash Mountain. The story will pick up where the film left off as guests join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure down the bayou as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration during Mardi Gras season where everyone is welcome. The enchantment of the bayou will illuminate with a celebration during Mardi Gras season hosted by Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen. And Disney have revealed that Mama Odie will reprise her role as the catalyst to that magic. As depicted in this newly released rendering, Mama Odie jokes with guests along their journey after a special display of her magic. The two-hundred-year-old Bayou Fairy Godmother, with her eccentric belongings and “seeing eye snake,” Juju, is comically eccentric, yet wise and all-knowing, throughout the adventure. Some of the brand-new Audio-Animatronics figures in the attraction will bring the invigorating sounds of New Orleans to life. Take this rendering of Prince Naveen’s brother, Ralphie, for example. It’s a scene you commonly see in New Orleans: the joie de vivre influencing his every movement as he jams to the beat of his songful soul. Legendary actress Jenifer Lewis, who starred as the voice of Mama Odie in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Princess and the Frog,” is once again returning to her role for the attraction. Mama Odie joins a cast of friends – familiar and new – in Princess Tiana’s debut attraction. including a band of newly introduced critters that will provide some of the soundtrack to your journey. Country Bears Musical Jamboree The Country Bears at Magic Kingdom are getting a brand new show, featuring all new Disney songs, including Bear Necessities from The Jungle Book! The Country Bear Jamboree at Magic Kingdom is one of the parks original attractions, but in 2024 the attraction will change to the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. Disney Imagineer Chris Beatty says when the show debuts, the bears will be reinterpreting favorite Disney songs in different genres of country music. Imagineers are envisioning the new experience as a homage to the classic musical revues in Nashville and they’re working with Nashville musicians to get the authentic country sound. The Country Bear Jamboree will still have the fun and friendly tone fans enjoy with the same famous characters like the loveable Trixie, Big Al and others. Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge Although we don't know a timeline, a brand new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge is coming to Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park. This first-of-its-kind experience will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean. Imagineers are in the design process now, with more details to come in the future! Exciting news also is that the new tavern will see the return of Peg-Leg Pete, also known as the Barker Bird that was once stationed outside the attraction!! CommuniCore Hall & Plaza The all-new "Walt the Dreamer" statue may have debuted as a focal point of the stunning World Celebration Gardens in World Celebration, but we still have more to look forward to in the re-imagining of EPCOT, with CommuniCore Hall & CommuniCore Plaza due to open in early 2024. CommuniCore Hall will be the home of a dynamic exhibition space that will transform with each festival throughout the year, as you can see here in one possibility imagined for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, a fully reimagined theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic "The Little Mermaid," will debut in the newly refreshed Animation Courtyard theater in fall 2024 at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The new show will replace the original Voyage of the Little Mermaid show, which debuted on January 7, 1992 at Hollywood Studios, the show ran until March 2020, when Walt DIsney World was forced to close due to the COVID Pandemic. The newly reimagined show will feature stunning new set pieces, cutting-edge effects, and a bold new design that captures Ariel's imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will include much loved songs featured in the film, including "Part of Your World," "Poor Unfortunate Souls," and "Kiss The Girl." Test Track While no timeline has been announced, Test Track at EPCOT is to be completely reimagined, with imagineers along with teams from Chevrolet reaching back into history for inspiration—from the original World of Motion, to bringing that spirit of optimism to the next iteration of the Test Track attraction! Chevrolet will continue to sponsor the reimagined attraction. Star Tours featuring Ahsoka In 2024, Ahsoka will be added to the Star Tours attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Ahsoka Tano is a fictional character in the Star Wars franchise. She was introduced as the 14-year-old TogrutaJedi Padawan of Anakin Skywalker in the animated film Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008) before appearing in the subsequent animated television series (2008–2014; 2020); the sequel series Star Wars Rebels (2014–2018); in the live-action film Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019) as a voiceover cameo; and in the miniseriesTales of the Jedi (2022), voiced by Ashley Eckstein. In 2020, Ahsoka made her live-action debut in the second season of the Disney+ series The Mandalorian, portrayed by Rosario Dawson. Dawson reprised the role in a 2022 episode of the spin-off series The Book of Boba Fett, and the 2023 miniseries, Ahsoka, in 2023. Zootopia Attraction It’s Tough To Be A Bug is being replaced with a brand new Zootopia attraction. The show is being created for the Tree of Life theater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, with imagineers currently finalizing the concept that will feature a Clawhauser Audio-Animatronic as part of the attraction. The current concept for the new “Zootopia” experience has guests visiting the different biomes you only glimpse in the film, traveling along with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and other characters. Imagineers are currently finalizing the concept and more details will be coming in the future includibg when this new attraction will open. Disney Vacation Club Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Walt Disney World will open 350 new Disney Vacation Club cabins that are set to replace the current cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The new cabins are expected to open in 2024. Disney say that the proposed cabins would be built with an eye toward the environment, utilizing the footprint of the existing cabins and taking advantage of more energy-efficient features. Design concepts offer a fresh take on the current cabin experience and are inspired by the resort’s idyllic setting, while also paying homage to the resort’s unique culture and heritage through the magic of Disney storytelling. Each proposed, stand-alone cabin offers spacious accommodations, sleeping up to six adults, and features a bedroom, bathroom, living room, full kitchen and private patio. As with all Disney Vacation Club resorts, the proposed cabins will continue to be open for reservations to all guests, including those who are not Disney Vacation Club Members, based on availability. DVC Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort A new DVC tower due to open in late 2024 is currently under construction at Polynesian Village Resort. Located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon and on the monorail line to Magic Kingdom, the new DVC Tower is being built in the area that was home to Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is currently under construction in the space that was previously home to the ESPN Club at Disney's Boardwalk. Upon opening, this sweet spot will feature both savory and sweet items on its menu, and of course showcase the incredible cakes that Gwendolyn and her team have created, for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant and bakery will serve cookies, French macarons, brownies, dessert bars, pies, and cheesecakes in addition to the handmade cakes. Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs Also coming to Disney’s BoardWalk is Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, which is expected to open early in 2024 Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, which currently has a stand at the Downtown Disney District in Disneyland Resort, will be serving up hand-dipped corn dogs. including Mexican Street Corn Dog, and Pickle Dog, together with Fresh Lemonade and Strawberry Drinks, and Fresh Spun Cotton Candy. Tropical Americas Land Beyond 2024, Walt Disney World have big plans for the resort, including a whole new land at Animal Kingdom that is set to see Dinoland U.S.A. reimagined into a new land inspired by a region sometimes referred to as “tropical Americas.” As part of their research, Imagineers are looking at some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet in the regions just north and south of the equator here in the Western Hemisphere – the northern part of South America, stretching up into Central America. New experiences inspired by “Encanto” and the fan-favorite adventurer Indiana Jones are being planned for the reimagined land. In the concept art it shows Indiana Jones will be replacing the existing Dinosaur ride. You can also see rendering from Encanto! Bruce Vaughn, head of Walt Disney Imagineering says there’s a long way to go and a lot more to discover but Imagineering teams in Florida are up for the challenge." In addition to the new land at Animal kingdom, imagineers at Walt Disney World have huge plans for Magic Kingdom, and although we don't know the details, or a timeline, Disney have given us all a few clues, read on for the details... Beyond Big Thunder Mountain At the Destination D23 event that took place i September 2023, at Walt Disney World, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro and Bruce Vaughn, chief creative officer of Walt Disney Imagineering shared a special blue sky look at the exciting "Beyond Big Thunder Mountain" expansion that is currently being planned for Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Vaughn explained that the current expansion being planned for Magic Kingdom will be similar in scope to Pandora — The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and will be the biggest expansion in Magic Kingdom history. While not giving away any specifics of the expansion, Vaughn said, "There's a lot of room to play with around there. And we're looking at the possibility of adding new attractions, restaurants shows you dream it we're thinking about it. And like I said, the ideas are looking really great." Josh D’Amaro shared that "There's still a long way to go. But I just want all of our fans to know that we are about to go into overdrive at the Magic Kingdom. And I am looking forward to spending more time with your team as we keep refining these ideas to create something really special that every single person in here is going to love." Disney Dining Plan, Park Hopping and Park Pass Updates In addition to all the exciting new attractions, restaurants. and more coming to Walt Disney World, 2024 also brings updates that will make planning your future Walt Disney World visits simpler and easier... Removing Theme Park Reservation Requirements for Date-Based Tickets: Starting with park visits on Jan. 9, 2024, theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. When getting your ticket, you will simply select a start date for Jan. 9, 2024 or later, complete your purchase and then you will be all set! For reference, date-based tickets are the standard ticket option for guests. For other admission types, including non-dated tickets, theme park reservations may be required to help us continue managing attendance and delivering a great experience for everyone. You can check which admission types require park reservations by visiting DisneyWorld.com/ThemeParkReservations before you purchase. Good-To-Go Days for Annual Passholders In 2024, Walt Disney World will offer select days on which Annual Passholders may visit Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation. Once introduced, WDW will roll out these good-to-go days on an ongoing basis. This will be in addition to the update which offers Passholders the opportunity to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. without needing a park reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. Good-to-go days may vary by park, and pass block out dates and capacity limitations continue to apply like they do today. Disney Dining Plans: Time to eat! Disney dining plans will be coming back as an option for those staying at Disney Resort hotels who purchase a vacation package with us starting with stays beginning Jan. 9, 2024. Guests will be able to choose from two popular options: Packages that include either the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan. Both plans will be a great value for families with young children with access to many spectacular food and beverage offerings across Walt Disney World. To keep up with the latest news from Orlando, plus deals and discounts in Central Florida, sign up for the the Gotta Go Orlando Newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. For all the latest events and things to do in Orlando, check out our latest guides: Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Month, Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend, and FREE Events & Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend. For the latest Orlando Theme Park News click here, for the latest Attractions News click here, plus check out our daily updated news pages: Walt Disney World News, Universal Orlando Resort News, SeaWorld Orlando News, LEGOLAND Florida News, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For the latest Orlando Entertainment News, check out our daily updated news pages: Entertainment News, Live Music & Concerts News, Events & Festival News, Theater & The Visual Arts News, Bar, Club & Nightlife News, and Food & Drink News. To list your events and feature your business on Gotta Go Orlando, learn more about advertising with us and submit your Orlando events here.