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The 42nd Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll is underway at the Henry Plant Museum in Tampa! The Victorian Christmas Stroll has returned for the 42nd year to the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa! What started as a small, three-evening event has grown over the past four decades into a month of extravagance and grandeur. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday experience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the season has to offer. Decorations - large and small - include visitor favorites from past years as well as new displays and themes that are sure to amaze and enthrall. You will not want to miss Tampa's favorite holiday event in Tampa's most iconic building! Running now through until Nov 24, 2023 - Dec 23, 2023, The Victorian Christmas Stroll celebrates the warmth and spirit of an old fashioned holiday, while encouraging a sense of community. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda each day while holiday music floats through the air. Proceeds from the Victorian Christmas Stroll fund museum restoration and preservation projects, as well as educational programming. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

The Disney Treasure’s story began with the start of construction in January of 2023 and has continued to evolve ever since, reaching a new milestone this week. The Disney Treasure is currently being constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, with construction continuing at a fast pace. It was only last week that Disney Cruise Line announced tha the forward and aft funnels had ben added atop the ship, and now the Disney Treasure has reached yet another milestone in construction – the completion of its last block! In case you’re not familiar with this maritime milestone, it’s important to know that cruise ships are built in blocks (sections). With the last block in place, this means that the ship is now structurally complete and outfitting work can begin. The last block on the Disney Treasure will eventually house areas such as the adults-only Quiet Cove area (including Cove Café) and Hero Zone, a futuristic sports arena where physical activity blends with imagination, offering highly produced show experiences in addition to free-play sports. With this latest milestone reached, the Disney Treasure can now move towards completion of its interior. the funnels on the Disney Treasure aren’t just for looks – guests will also be able to plunge through the forward funnel while riding the AquaMouse, Disney’s attraction at sea, or even stay inside the funnel in the two-story EPCOT-themed Tomorrow Tower Suite! Read on for all the details on the Disney Treasure... Disney Treasure, the sister ship to the Disney Wish that launched in 2022, will embark on its maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 21, 2024, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral. Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club members can book a Disney Treasure cruise as early as Sept. 12, 2023, and bookings will open to all guests on Sept. 20, 2023. A Design Inspired by Adventure The Disney Treasure will harness a design concept that calls upon the bold and heartwarming stories of beloved Disney characters. Adventure will serve as the architectural and thematic foundation of the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, in honor of Walt Disney’s legendary passion for travel and exploration. On board, guests will find fan-favorite spaces from the Disney Wish, infused with this theme of adventure and inspired by memorable Disney stories like “Aladdin,” “Coco” and “Zootopia.” New Culinary Adventures In addition to the return of two beloved Disney Cruise Line restaurant concepts found on the Disney Wish, the Disney Treasure will introduce a brand-new family entertainment restaurant. Plaza de Coco will be the world’s first theatrical dining experience themed to the Disney and Pixar film, “Coco.” The story of Miguel and his familia will continue where it left off on screen as they gather in Mariachi Plaza to take guests on two nights of colorful, music-filled journeys that celebrate family memories and togetherness with festive dinner menus of modern twists on traditional Mexican fare and a lineup of live entertainment. Worlds of Marvel, Disney Cruise Line’s immersive Marvel-themed dining experience, celebrates favorite Avengers characters and stories, including an amazing interaction with Spider-Man. This high-tech venue aboard the Disney Treasure will offer a worldly menu and special entertainment, including two separate nights with distinct shows and dining, all inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe. 1923, named for the founding year of Walt Disney Animation Studios, will celebrate the profound impact of Disney’s animation legacy and bring to life Walt Disney’s love of adventure through a nostalgic collection of exploration-themed artwork from both modern and classic animated films. Steeped in the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age, the venue’s upscale ambiance will complement a sophisticated menu inspired by the fusion of cultural flavors found throughout California and designed with families in mind. The Disney Treasure will continue Disney Cruise Line’s innovative family dining concept, where guests experience one of three imaginative restaurants each night, accompanied by a dedicated service team that joins them throughout the voyage, adding a level of familiarity to their dining experience. In addition to three main family restaurants, the new ship will feature quick bites, casual dining, 24-hour room service, specialty treats, gourmet cafes, upscale dining just for adults, and Jumbeaux’s Sweets, inspired by the popular ice cream parlor featured in Disney’s “Zootopia.” Captivating Family Entertainment Families will come together to enjoy both new and timeless, beloved Disney Cruise Line entertainment aboard the Disney Treasure, immersing guests in worlds both real and imagined, through interactive storytelling, character encounters and Broadway-style theatrical adaptations of inspiring Disney adventures. The Grand Hall will be the key to unlocking a trove of captivating new entertainment, including dedicated shows, character encounters and musical performances. As the story unfolds for guests on the Disney Treasure, the “Aladdin”-themed Grand Hall will serve as the ship’s most prominent gathering space, inspiring wonder and exploration during each voyage. Named for the lioness matriarch from Disney’s “The Lion King,” Sarabi will be a central hub for a multitude of daytime activities and adult-exclusive evening entertainment. The uniquely designed two-story space will evoke the natural beauty and openness of the savanna and will feature cruise line classics such as “Match Your Mate” and “Family Time Game Show,” and new favorites that debuted on the Disney Wish like “Villains Game Night.” The Walt Disney Theatre is an opulent show palace that will come alive with original Broadway-style productions developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line – “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure” – both Disney Cruise Line fan-favorites. The former will bring Belle’s enchanting adventure to life on stage by incorporating imaginative elements from the live-action film and the classic animated feature, while the latter will be an original musical spectacular that features beloved characters from Disney and Pixar stories alongside rousing renditions of iconic Disney songs. The curtain will open on a brand-new original Broadway-style production on the Disney Treasure. Joining a dazzling lineup of fan-favorite shows including “Beauty and the Beast” and “Disney Seas the Adventure,” will be none other than “Disney The Tale of Moana.” Debuting exclusively at the Walt Disney Theatre onboard the Disney Treasure, “Disney The Tale of Moana” will bring the adventurous journey of Moana, inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film, to center stage for the first time. The show will follow Moana as she embarks on an incredible journey to save her island after she is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti. Fans of the original film will recognize many beloved characters like Gramma Tala, Maui and Tamatoa when they appear on stage, as well as songs from the film’s iconic soundtrack. Hero Zone and the Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas, popular spaces from the Disney Wish, will provide family entertainment aboard the Disney Treasure. Hero Zone will offer a progressive sports and recreation venue where action-packed physical challenges will blend with game show-style competitions, while the Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas, intimate, luxe screening rooms, will elevate the onboard cinematic experience for guests to watch first-run films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and more. Fun in the Sun on the Upper Decks Surrounded by both the open ocean and sky, the adventures will continue on the upper decks of the Disney Treasure with three distinct districts offering fun water activities, quick and casual dining options and plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun. In an expansive district themed to Mickey and friends, families will discover seven pools staggered among tiered decks, an abundance of luxe lounge chairs, an imaginative take on fast-casual fare with a festive character twist and Disney Cruise Line’s own attraction at sea, AquaMouse. AquaMouse: Curse of the Golden Egg will plunge guests into the world of Mickey Mouse animated shorts. Suspended high above the upper decks, powerful jets will propel two-person ride vehicles through 760 feet of winding tubes, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the ship below. Onboard the Disney Treasure, AquaMouse will introduce an all-new storyline that follows Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a zany misadventure into an ancient temple. Guests will journey with the pair as they embark on a tour of mysterious ruins for a glimpse of the legendary treasure within and encounter a series of hilarious mishaps and booby traps that take the trek in unexpected directions. Like aboard the Disney Wish, little ones will delight in a Toy Story-themed district designed especially for families with toddlers and young children that will include a splash zone, wading pool, family waterslide and smoothie bar. In addition, adults can indulge in sun-drenched serenity at Quiet Cove, a peaceful refuge dedicated to lounging, sipping and soaking. Set away from the bustle of family activities, this secluded adults-only district will feature a luxurious infinity pool, poolside bar and chic cafe. Relaxing Retreats and Exciting Exploration for Adults Aboard the Disney Treasure, adults will explore, relax, dine and play with venues and entertainment tailored just for them. These adult-only experiences will offer elevated interpretations of Disney adventures and Disney Parks attractions, with sophisticated theming ranging from subtle inspiration to full immersion, allowing guests to customize their vacation according to their interests. Periscope Pub will be Disney Cruise Line’s first venue inspired by the spellbinding adventure of Walt Disney’s 1954 film, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” and the celebrated Disney Parks attraction that was open at Walt Disney World from 1971 to 1994. Guests will dive into the mythical depths of uncharted oceans amidst the submarine-styled interiors and take a look at the watery world below through an intriguing glass ceiling. In addition to watching the latest sports games, explorers at the Periscope Pub will encounter a menu of craft brews and light bites. Adventure awaits guests beneath a tangle of untamed foliage at Skipper Society, a centrally located outpost that will feature refined nods to the iconic Jungle Cruise attraction at Disney theme parks around the globe. The venue’s natural colorways and camp-style furnishings, paired with sly tributes to the trusty, dry-witted skippers who lead world-famous tours across treacherous waterways, will offer an elevated, yet playful atmosphere where guests will indulge in themed cocktails and light snacks. Fan-favorite, adult-exclusive dining locations will also return on the Disney Treasure. Guests will savor gourmet meals and exceptional beverages at Palo Steakhouse, Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement and The Rose, an upscale suite of epicurean excellence exclusively for adults, inspired by the elegant icons of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Beauty and the Beast.” The popular Palo Steakhouse will come to the Disney Treasure, combining the relaxed sophistication of authentic Italian dining with the classic refinement of a modern steakhouse in a genteel setting inspired by Cogsworth, the tale’s majordomo-turned-enchanted-clock.Enchanté will offer the most luxurious dining experience on board, featuring a gourmet menu crafted by three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement. This romantic and intimate venue will evoke the dazzling spirit of the film’s candelabra maître d’, Lumiere. The Rose will be a chic lounge at the entrance of Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté. Inspired by the fateful flower at the heart of the story, The Rose will be an idyllic setting for a pre-dinner aperitif or after-dinner cocktail. Haunted Mansion Parlor Foolish Mortals at The Haunted Mansion Parlor, an all-new bar inspired by the iconic Disney Parks attraction, The Haunted Mansion will sip spirited craft cocktails among 999 happy haunts for the first time onboard the Disney Treasure. The one-of-a-kind experience will invite guests to partake in the next chapter of the Haunted Mansion, focused on the story of a jovial captain who entered the ghostly realm after a disastrous dinner with his beloved fiancé. A custom musical arrangement inspired by the attraction’s original score arranged and adapted by composer Shruti Kumar and Walt Disney Imagineering will set the stage for an ever-escalating anthology of illusions that immerses guests into the mysterious lore of the Haunted Mansion. Legendary characters from Haunted Mansion attractions at Disney Parks around the world, as well as new seafaring arrivals, will come out to socialize in mysterious ways throughout the experience. The venue will follow the nostalgic art style of the original 1969 Disney Parks classic, and true to the original attraction, the Haunted Mansion Parlor will blend humor with Disney’s own distinct brand of spooky storytelling. The design of the Haunted Mansion Parlor will be reminiscent of a first-class drawing room from the classic cruise liners of the golden age, invoking inspiration from the original Haunted Mansion with a nautical twist. The lounge will include tributes to the Disney Parks attractions, from the iconic purple wallpaper framed by wooden finishes to a mantel clock atop an inviting fireplace to a distinctive purple armchair tucked in the corner. Guests will also encounter a few new ghoulish faces in a portrait gallery depicting the Disney Treasure’s own ghostly residents. Senses Spa is a tranquil oasis offering indulgent spa and beauty treatments, drawing on the serenity of natural elements to promote pampering and relaxation. The spa will feature private treatment rooms, lavish spa villas, and steam and aromatherapy rooms, while the reimagined Senses Fitness will offer state-of-the-art exercise and wellness facilities. Other adult-exclusive spaces on board the Disney Treasure will include the Quiet Cove pool district, a variety of gourmet cafes, relaxed bars and upscale lounges, and more. Adventures for Kids of All Ages Aboard the Disney Treasure, children will embark on Disney adventures of their own with dedicated spaces and interactive programming for every age group—infants and toddlers, children, tweens and teens. Children will enter the captivating worlds of favorite Disney stories in the Disney’s Oceaneer Club, a wonderland of immersive spaces specially designed to encourage exploration and discovery. Expertly developed programming combines physical play and age-appropriate technology to create deeply engaging, enriching experiences led by a team of Disney-trained counselors. Marvel Super Hero Academy is a high-tech Avengers headquarters where young “recruits” will train to be the next generation of Super Heroes with the help of their own heroes, like Spider-Man, Black Panther and Ant-Man. Fairytale Hall is a royal collection of activity rooms where princesses and princes will let their creativity shine at Rapunzel’s Art Studio, read and act out stories at Belle’s Library and more. At Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, kids will discover the secrets of world-renowned Disney Imagineers — the creative masterminds behind Disney theme parks, resorts and cruise ships — with hands-on activities and inventive experiments. At Star Wars: Cargo Bay, the peculiar creatures and legendary characters from a galaxy far, far away take center stage immersing kids in their own Star Wars story as they take on the role of creature handlers and learn to manage a mischievous menagerie of exotic beings. Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck is a nautical playground inspired by the colors, icons and magic of Disney Cruise Line. Little cadets will set sail on a fun-filled adventure with an array of maritime-themed physical and sensory-style games and activities. Artful Accommodations The luxurious accommodations aboard the Disney Treasure will strike an inviting balance between modern design and nostalgic charm with a fresh, natural color scheme and custom artwork that will entice guests to peer beyond their staterooms into fantastical worlds from heartwarming Disney adventures. The staterooms on board are built with families in mind and feature upscale amenities. Most will include Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bath concept, and many will offer the option of a connecting door that adjoins staterooms to accommodate larger groups voyaging together – with 451 connecting doors in all. In addition, most of the ship’s 1,256 staterooms will offer an ocean view — including 877 (70 percent) with a verandah. The Disney Treasure will elevate the concierge experience for those guests seeking luxury and a premium level of dedicated service. The concierge-level staterooms and suites will offer both adventure and indulgence, and an exclusive concierge lounge with a private sun deck that serves as the perfect place to relax, sip a cocktail and enjoy a variety of food and beverages throughout the day. Onboard the Disney Treasure, concierge-level suites will feature elegant interiors inspired by the majestic grasslands Simba calls home in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Lion King.” The adventure-inspired accommodations aboard the Disney Treasure will also extend to four royal suites that pay tribute to the faithful feline companions of daring Disney characters. The upscale designs will include the Bagheera Royal Suites, honoring the noble panther from “The Jungle Book” and the lush forests he calls home, and the Rajah Royal Suites, themed to Princess Jasmine’s protective tiger who dwells in the royal palace of Agrabah in the classic Disney film, “Aladdin.” To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a cruise on the Disney Treasure, guests can visit disneycruise.com/treasure, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent. For the very latest news and information from Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date on our socials, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, your free guide to Orlando.

Anyone can “Ho-ho-ho” and “Fa-la-la” for the holidays. But if you want to scream, laugh and shout your jingle bells off, you’ve got to awesome up your season with Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, oh and don't forget about the Holiday Treats!! The Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort are in full swing, and from now through until December 31, you can join the celebration of Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, get together with the resident Whos in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, where you can enjoy the music and fun of The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular starring the Grinch, and marvel at the giant balloons in the Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's with characters from Illumination's Despicable Me and DreamWorks Animation's Shrek. Plus, in addition to all the holiday fun, Universal Orlando offer a yummy selection of holiday treats and Jonathan Taylor at Universal Parks Blog has shared this years favorite specialty holiday snacks around Universal Orlando Resort. Toothsome’s Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen At Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen in Universal CityWalk you can enjoy this years speciality holiday milkshake, a Letter to Santa, the main flavor here is coquito, a classic Puerto RIcan cocktail with coconut and rum flavors. He said the coquito flavor profile is very similar to eggnog, but different enough to lure in the eggnog haters. The milkshake itself is delicious, it's a thick, coconut-flavored shake, with flakes of coconut, and a hint of rum flavoring (it’s a 0% ABV milkshake meaning there is no alcohol). The best part is the letter to Santa on top. Made of chocolate, it rests on a mountain of whipped topping which is also sprinkled with red. Hop on Pop | Seuss Landing in Universal Islands of Adventure Seuss Landing is holiday central at the Universal Orlando Resort. The Grinch has taken over fan-favorite Hop on Pop with a plethora of green items inspired by the heartwarming villain. The Ice Cream Sandwich features green cookies and a large block of ice cream. The green cookies are also available separately and are super soft. Another fun option is the Grinch’s Heart Hot Chocolate Bomb. It comes with a cup of hot chocolate, which you drop the heart into. All of these green treats have a smaller, red cinnamon accessory, meant to signify the Grinch’s heart before it grew three sizes. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the beloved story! Battery Park | Universal Studios Florida Over in Universal Studios Florida, Battery Park features savory options.The 3 Cheese Grilled Cheese Sandwich has three different types of cheeses (cheddar, muenster and mozzarella), along with a bacon and tomato jam. The Turkey Dinner Sandwich is served warm with freshly carved turkey breast, toasted multi grain cranberry bread, savory brie cheese, and lusciously tart cranberry orange aioli spread. There is two soup options here, tomato soup and butternut squash soup. The Classic Nog Eggnog comes with some Cinnamon Whiskey poured over as a floater. The S’mores sandwich features gooey marshmallow and melted chocolate sandwiched between chocolate brioche bread. Check out more of the holiday fun around the resort here. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Snow in Florida? You heard that right! Get some gloves and experience a week full of winter festivities and hands-on snow fun at the Florida Aquarium. Who says we can't have snow in Florida? Snow Days is back at The Florida Aquarium in Tampa! Grab your gloves and join us on select dates for winter festivities and hands-on snow experiences! Activities include a snow maze, snowball toss, snow painting, live entertainment and more. Snow Days is free for members and included with general admission. Snow Days is taking place select days, now to December 31, for details and to book tickets click here. Activities Include: Snow Daze Snow Maze Dash your way through our snow-flurried “Snow Daze Snow Maze”. Snowball Toss Take your best shot and test your snowball throwing skills. Snow Painting The snow is your canvas! Grab a paintbrush and show us your creative side. Street Curling No ice? No problem! Come experience our iceless curling sheet and test your skills in a classic bonspiel. Snowball Cornhole A classic game with a twist! We swapped the cornhole bags for snowballs. Rooftop Dance Party Join us on the rooftop for our winter wonderland dance party! Ice Skating Performances Come see some local ice skaters at the new ice rink. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

What's better than a carnival? A HOLIDAY carnival of course! The Tampa Bay Festival of Lights offers over 2 miles of drive-through holiday lights, and SO MUCH MORE! Tampa Bay's Festival of Lights and Santa's Village is back with more lights, new entertainment and the gift of family fun! Running now through New Year’s Eve, with the magical holiday event envelops families in more than 1 million lights along an expanded 2-mile drive. Favorites such as the Pirates of Tampa guarding the entry to the 110-ft. drive-thru animated tunnel, the Florida-themed alligators and airboats, and lively animals frolicking are joined by a new dip “Under the Sea,” sparkling with blue lights and playful aquatic creatures. Santa’s Village is packed with tasty treats and activities, including holiday-themed rides, a winter market that’s open every night, and the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village, complete with firepits where families can make yummy s’mores. Visits with Santa, Santa’s workshop with craft stations, Santa’s Barnyard, camel rides, holiday movies and live entertainment on the weekends promise endless fun for the entire family. Don’t be surprised to find the Grinch or Jack Frost strolling around Santa’s Village. Tickets for this year’s event are the same price as last year, $25/car (8 people) or $80/bus (30 people). Santa’s Village is open December 7 - 10, December 14 - 25. All other dates are drive-thru only, with tickets $20 on those nights ONLY. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Vocal powerhouse Teddy Swims announces the continuation of his I've Tried Everything But Therapy North American tour with new dates in March and April, including a stop in Orlando. Teddy Swims has announced additional dates for his I've Tried Everything But Therapy North American tour, includding a return to Orlando April 4, 2024 at Hard Rock Live Orlando! Grab the crew and use Presale Password CREW to get tickets starting Thursday, December 14 at noon, with general release tickets available Friday, December 15 at 12 pm. Get tickets here. Singer-songwriter Teddy Swims (born Jaten Dimsdale) found himself on the path towards self-forgiveness when he started putting pen to paper for his debut studio album, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1), via Warner Records. Though he’s released music and toured the world since making his debut in 2019, the 31-year-old Georgia-born artist has spent much of the last four years writing his way towards an album that would tell this story – his story – to the people who were ready to receive it. An emotionally walloping and deeply resonant body of work to be released in multiple parts – much like Teddy’s own journey of self-discovery – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1)  is an album about diving headfirst into healing without any floatation devices. The ten-song Part One finds Teddy working out some very big, very real issues through his music. “Now I’m watching people connect with the messages and stories and realizing not only are the songs helping me, but they’re also helping them too,” he says. “It feels like all that work on the back end, all that internalizing, is finally making a difference.” "I’m happy to be a part of a generation that is finally talking about mental health issues more openly. I try to be as open as possible about what I’m going through in my own personal life. My debut album, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1), is an honest look into my mental health journey. I believe therapy could really be beneficial to myself and anyone willing to take the steps to heal. But, for some reason I still have something holding me back. I’m afraid of therapy because I love the coping mechanisms I use on a regular basis… whether it’s biting my nails, drinking alcohol, or resorting back to my ticks... These feel safe to me. I know there are answers to the questions I’m not ready to ask myself. This album is my first step towards being vulnerable about this journey and the steps I need to take to heal." For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

It's the weekend and there's no shortage of things to do here in Orlando, and we've chosen all the fun and FREE EVENTS that are taking place throughout the weekend. Best FREE Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend Friday, Dec 15, 2023 Saturday, Dec 16, 2023 Sunday, Dec 17, 2023 FRIDAY, DEC. 15, 2023 Ugly Sweater Soiree December 15, 2023 Ugly Sweater Soiree at Hometown Market, Winter Park. Hors d'oeuvres, drink specials, photo ops, Christmas music, and more including an ugly sweater contest with prizes. Holiday Friday Nights at the Morse December 15, 2023 The Morse Museum invites all to celebrate the holidays season this year with free admission from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and live music from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Altamonte Springs Holiday Concerts December 15, 2023 Enjoy live music from artists performing holiday hits at Altamonte Springs Holiday Concerts in Cranes Roost Park. Plus, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Plaza. Food and beverages available for purchase. Admission is free. Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Now - December 23, 2023 With nightly snowfalls, live entertainment, photo ops and memorable encounters that will amaze and enchant, Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical for everyone. Enjoy all your favorite chilly-weather foods as sweet-treats stations and pop-up stands offer specialty snacks and beverages made especially for the season. Enjoy classic Christmas tales with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Cottage. Stroll through Lake Nona’s very own Holiday Market for some Christmas shopping or explore the Evergreen Christmas Tree Trail. Snap memories in front of the picture-perfect photo walls and Peppermint Square’s 24-foot Christmas tree centerpiece with family and friends. Ready to trim the tree together at home? Pick out your perfect blue spruce or Douglas fir at the Peppermint Forest Christmas tree lot. Join us on the first night of Hanukkah to kickoff the festival of lights with a menorah blessing. Holiday Nights at ICON Park Now - December 25, 2023 The 20-acre ICON Park has transformed into a holiday wonderland with the arrival of the I-Drive District’s 50-foot decorated tree, nightly snowfall, Santa Workshop Experience, The Wheel’s holiday light and music show, carolers – and, of course, Santa himself. Guests are invited to bring a blanket, gather on ICON Park’s center lawn to enjoy the free nightly snowfall and magical light show, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and entertainment venues. Snow & Carolers on The Lawn Guests can enjoy the magic and wonder of a snowy holiday season, right on I-Drive. Every night from 7 to 8 p.m., eight snow machines will create flurries that blanket ICON Park’s central gathering place, The Lawn. Snowfall is nightly, with carolers every Saturday evening. Holiday Light Show on The Wheel The Wheel at ICON Park is getting into the holiday spirit with the return of the popular holiday light show. Gather on The Lawn and watch as The Wheel’s 64,000 LED lights dance to a seasonal soundtrack during a 10-minute production Holinights Celebrations Select Nights, Now - December 25, 2023 The holidays are coming, and at the popular Promenade at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee, the Holinights are on the way too, bringing non stop holiday fun and entertainment. The popular entertainment, shopping and dining destination, is hosting several holiday events throughout the festive season including Holinights on select nights from 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm Holinights Celebration features Santa Claus, Mischievous Elves, Towering Toy Soldiers, Live Music & Tree Lighting Nightly, Snow Ball Fights with the Mischievous Elves, Holiday Craft & Street Markets, Car Shows & More! Holidays At Disney Springs Now - December 30, 2022 Enjoy a host of holiday-themed activities and savor the comforting flavors of the season while shopping for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! Highlights Include: Meet Santa and enjoy festive holiday tunes with live musical performances and DJs. Plus, encounter Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Snowflake Skaters. Discover Christmas around every corner, as you come across a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Flurries are in the forecast for Disney Springs Town Center. In the evenings, delight in a magical snowfall, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping. Now Snowing In Celebration Now - December 31, 2023 Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier Snowing event is celebrating 25 years this year, offering one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Now Snowing is a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens style Carolers, photos with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, train rides, ice skating, and nightly snowfall at 6, 7, 8, 9pm. It’s a true throwback to the traditional family style holiday. Cranes Roost Park Light Up the Holidays Now – January 1, 2024 The City of Altamonte Springs and Duke Energy celebrate the tradition of lighting up Cranes Roost Park with live music, entertainment, fireworks, train rides, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Watch as the park comes alive with spectacular holiday displays featuring 200,000 lights and a 60-foot tree decorated with thousands of ornaments and garland. Tis the Season in Winter Garden December 1, 2023 - January 7, 2024 Downtown Winter Garden transforms into a winter wonderland for 38 days of Tis the Season, outdoor holiday movies, light shows, carriage tours, boutique stroll, farmer’s market, and holiday music on the plaza are here to enjoy. Friday Muscle Car Show & Cruise Every Friday Join the heart pounding excitement of high-performance engines and true horse power for our Muscle Car Show every Friday night at Old Town in Kissimmee. The Friday Muscle Car Show will begin at 3:00pm and the qualifications are show-quality muscle and factory-performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm and all cars registered can participate. Winter Garden Friday on the Plaza Every Friday Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza in Winter Garden. Art After Dark at Lake Nona Every Friday Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center from 6 pm, and it's a perfect free night out for the whole family. Enjoy a stroll through the Town Center as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while to enjoy the art displayed on the six story art installation, The Beacon. Sunset Walk Fired-up Fridays Every Friday Friday nights, the Promenade at Sunset Walk presents Fired-Up Fridays, a free Car & Truck Show event with all makes, models, and years welcome of show car quality. Featuring music by DJ Scotty B and Company, plus the very best regional live bands. The Promenade is home to over 2 dozen restaurants, retail shops, movie theaters, and entertainment options, located just ½ mile from the intersection of State Road 429 and U.S. 192, at 3251 Margaritaville Blvd. FREE admission and parking. Little Listeners at Altamonte Library Every Friday Experience stories brought to life at Altamonte Library with fun books, interactive rhymes and craft activities during Little Listeners Storytime every Friday at 11 a.m. Sessions are tailored for ages 3 to 5 to help foster a love of reading. Sessions run for 30 minutes. Parents must stay with child. Reservations are required. Free Bingo Night at District Eat and Play Oviedo Every Friday Free Bingo each Friday night at District Eat and Play Oviedo Mall, Oviedo at 6pm. SATURDAY, DEC. 16, 2023 Mr. Martini December 16, 2023 Mr. Martini performs live at Lil' Indie's on December 16th, 2023 - Free, 21+ Sanford Jingle Jam December 16, 2023 Join us in beautiful Historic Downtown Sanford for the 6th Annual Jingle Jam Community Holiday Party presented by Wayne Densch! Sanford Jingle Jam has become one of the largest family events in downtown and draws thousands from all over Central Florida! Featuring multiple stages of live music, award-winning food trucks, carnival games, holiday artisanal vendors, drink specials and more! See Santa himself and create lifelong memories and take some family pictures!! Plenty of free parking, pet and family friendly! NCAA's Cure Bowl' Fan Fest & March 2Cure Parade December 16, 2023 Don't miss Fan Fest at Cure Bowl a pregame extravaganza outside FBC Mortgage Stadium gates (11am to 3pm) preceding the 3:30 kickoff to the 9th Annual Cure Bowl. This FREE, vibrant community event offers food, music, a battle of the bands, an opening ceremony, and more – all dedicated to honoring the remarkable resilience of cancer survivors. You'll have a great vantage point to see the March 2Cure parade. Plus, upgrade your gameday experience with tickets to Tailgreeter VIP Tailgate, Orlando Sports Foundation Member Event, or one of the official Cure Bowl alumni celebrations. Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Now - December 23, 2023 With nightly snowfalls, live entertainment, photo ops and memorable encounters that will amaze and enchant, Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical for everyone. Enjoy all your favorite chilly-weather foods as sweet-treats stations and pop-up stands offer specialty snacks and beverages made especially for the season. Enjoy classic Christmas tales with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Cottage. Stroll through Lake Nona’s very own Holiday Market for some Christmas shopping or explore the Evergreen Christmas Tree Trail. Snap memories in front of the picture-perfect photo walls and Peppermint Square’s 24-foot Christmas tree centerpiece with family and friends. Ready to trim the tree together at home? Pick out your perfect blue spruce or Douglas fir at the Peppermint Forest Christmas tree lot. Join us on the first night of Hanukkah to kickoff the festival of lights with a menorah blessing. Holiday Nights at ICON Park Now - December 25, 2023 The 20-acre ICON Park has transformed into a holiday wonderland with the arrival of the I-Drive District’s 50-foot decorated tree, nightly snowfall, Santa Workshop Experience, The Wheel’s holiday light and music show, carolers – and, of course, Santa himself. Guests are invited to bring a blanket, gather on ICON Park’s center lawn to enjoy the free nightly snowfall and magical light show, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and entertainment venues. Snow & Carolers on The Lawn Guests can enjoy the magic and wonder of a snowy holiday season, right on I-Drive. Every night from 7 to 8 p.m., eight snow machines will create flurries that blanket ICON Park’s central gathering place, The Lawn. Snowfall is nightly, with carolers every Saturday evening. Holiday Light Show on The Wheel The Wheel at ICON Park is getting into the holiday spirit with the return of the popular holiday light show. Gather on The Lawn and watch as The Wheel’s 64,000 LED lights dance to a seasonal soundtrack during a 10-minute production. Holinights Celebrations Select Nights, Now - December 25, 2023 The holidays are coming, and at the popular Promenade at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee, the Holinights are on the way too, bringing non stop holiday fun and entertainment. The popular entertainment, shopping and dining destination, is hosting several holiday events throughout the festive season including Holinights on select nights from 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm Holinights Celebration features Santa Claus, Mischievous Elves, Towering Toy Soldiers, Live Music & Tree Lighting Nightly, Snow Ball Fights with the Mischievous Elves, Holiday Craft & Street Markets, Car Shows & More! Holidays At Disney Springs Now - December 30, 2022 Enjoy a host of holiday-themed activities and savor the comforting flavors of the season while shopping for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! Highlights Include: Meet Santa and enjoy festive holiday tunes with live musical performances and DJs. Plus, encounter Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Snowflake Skaters. Discover Christmas around every corner, as you come across a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Flurries are in the forecast for Disney Springs Town Center. In the evenings, delight in a magical snowfall, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping. Now Snowing In Celebration Now - December 31, 2023 Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier Snowing event is celebrating 25 years this year, offering one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Now Snowing is a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens style Carolers, photos with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, train rides, ice skating, and nightly snowfall at 6, 7, 8, 9pm. It’s a true throwback to the traditional family style holiday. Cranes Roost Park Light Up the Holidays Now – January 1, 2024 The City of Altamonte Springs and Duke Energy celebrate the tradition of lighting up Cranes Roost Park with live music, entertainment, fireworks, train rides, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Watch as the park comes alive with spectacular holiday displays featuring 200,000 lights and a 60-foot tree decorated with thousands of ornaments and garland. Tis the Season in Winter Garden December 1, 2023 - January 7, 2024 Downtown Winter Garden transforms into a winter wonderland for 38 days of Tis the Season, outdoor holiday movies, light shows, carriage tours, boutique stroll, farmer’s market, and holiday music on the plaza are here to enjoy. Saturday Special at Pioneer Village Every Saturday Visit Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek 2491 Babb Road, Kissimmee every Saturday morning and enjoy a special activity. All materials will be provided with admission and is great for all ages. Disney Springs Kids Club Every Saturday Dance, play and be entertained at engaging shows for kids of all ages at the Disney Springs Kids Club, taking place every Saturday. Free Entertainment and Free Parking. Live Music on the Lawn in Lake Nona Every Saturday Live on the Lawn is your Saturday oasis to relax and recharge while listening to live music and playing lawn games with family and friends. Join Lake Nona from 11am – 3pm every Saturday! Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise Every Saturday Join Old Town in Kissimmee every Saturday and take a trip down memory lane. The Old Town Classic Car Show has been a local tradition for over 30 years, it is one of the premier weekly car shows in Central Florida. The Saturday Classic Car Show begins at 1:00pm and welcomes show-quality 1985 and older hot rods, street rods, and antiques. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm and all cars registered can participate. The Classic Car Show is free for participants and free for the public to attend. It’s the perfect outing for families of every generation, young and old, to enjoy. Show Car Saturday Night at Promenade at Sunset Walk Every Saturday The Promenade at Sunset Walk is home to the free Show Car Saturday Nights. All makes and models are welcome and displayed along Margaritaville Boulevard. Car enthusiasts will enjoy the music of DJ Scotty B while admiring an amazing collection of classic to modern automobiles, with live bands performing on the Promenade Plaza Stage nightly. Throughout the evening, find your favorite restaurants and shops at the Promenade at Sunset Walk. Orlando Area Saturday Farmers Markets Every Saturday The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is one of the best produce and plant markets in Central Florida which takes place every Saturday morning from 8 am - 1 pm in Central Park. The Lake Mary Farmers Market features local vendors of produce, plants, baked goods, and arts and crafts. The market is open every Saturday, from 9 am - 1:30 pm at Lake Mary City Hall. Visit every Saturday at the City of Longwood Farmers Market at Reiter Park from 9 am - 2 pm, with locally sourced seafood and produce to handmade crafts and more. Join in every Saturday morning in Lake Nona, the Lake Nona Farmers Market takes place in the beautiful Town Center from 11 am - 3 pm, shop local with the freshest produce and more. SUNDAY, DEC. 17, 2023 Milk Mart Holiday Market December 17, 2023 It's beginning to look a lot like the holidays! Eat, shop, and be merry with us in for a day of last-minute holiday shopping together at Milk Mart! Join us on December 17th for Milk Mart's annual Holiday market; the last Sunday before Christmas, it's often your last chance to snag local goods from a market setting... and you know we bring the goods! With over 250 local vendors, artists, and businesses to shop from, there's something for everyone on your list. Men's Closet 2023 Christmas Toy Drive Giveaway December 17, 2023 Men's Closet, in partnership with its non-profit organization MC Community Care, is hosting a Christmas Toy Drive Giveaway in Orlando, FL, on Sunday, December 17th, from 12 PM to 4 PM at Men’s Closet (5510 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808). This event is open and free to the public. We will have toys for children, face painting, balloon animals, a gaming truck, workshops, free food, music, and multiple vendors on site.Join us this holiday season to give back to the community, entrance is free for everyone! Bazaar Botanica: Yule Market December 17, 2023 The Yule Market featuring 30 talented local artisans and shops showcasing their unique creations. From handcrafted treasures, vintage finds, original art, to one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone. Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Now - December 23, 2023 With nightly snowfalls, live entertainment, photo ops and memorable encounters that will amaze and enchant, Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical for everyone. Enjoy all your favorite chilly-weather foods as sweet-treats stations and pop-up stands offer specialty snacks and beverages made especially for the season. Enjoy classic Christmas tales with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Cottage. Stroll through Lake Nona’s very own Holiday Market for some Christmas shopping or explore the Evergreen Christmas Tree Trail. Snap memories in front of the picture-perfect photo walls and Peppermint Square’s 24-foot Christmas tree centerpiece with family and friends. Ready to trim the tree together at home? Pick out your perfect blue spruce or Douglas fir at the Peppermint Forest Christmas tree lot. Join us on the first night of Hanukkah to kickoff the festival of lights with a menorah blessing. Holiday Nights at ICON Park Now - December 25, 2023 The 20-acre ICON Park has transformed into a holiday wonderland with the arrival of the I-Drive District’s 50-foot decorated tree, nightly snowfall, Santa Workshop Experience, The Wheel’s holiday light and music show, carolers – and, of course, Santa himself. Guests are invited to bring a blanket, gather on ICON Park’s center lawn to enjoy the free nightly snowfall and magical light show, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and entertainment venues. Snow & Carolers on The Lawn Guests can enjoy the magic and wonder of a snowy holiday season, right on I-Drive. Every night from 7 to 8 p.m., eight snow machines will create flurries that blanket ICON Park’s central gathering place, The Lawn. Snowfall is nightly, with carolers every Saturday evening. Holiday Light Show on The Wheel The Wheel at ICON Park is getting into the holiday spirit with the return of the popular holiday light show. Gather on The Lawn and watch as The Wheel’s 64,000 LED lights dance to a seasonal soundtrack during a 10-minute production Holinights Celebrations Select Nights, Now - December 25, 2023 The holidays are coming, and at the popular Promenade at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee, the Holinights are on the way too, bringing non stop holiday fun and entertainment. The popular entertainment, shopping and dining destination, is hosting several holiday events throughout the festive season including Holinights on select nights from 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm Holinights Celebration features Santa Claus, Mischievous Elves, Towering Toy Soldiers, Live Music & Tree Lighting Nightly, Snow Ball Fights with the Mischievous Elves, Holiday Craft & Street Markets, Car Shows & More! Holidays At Disney Springs Now - December 30, 2023 Enjoy a host of holiday-themed activities and savor the comforting flavors of the season while shopping for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! Highlights Include: Meet Santa and enjoy festive holiday tunes with live musical performances and DJs. Plus, encounter Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Snowflake Skaters. Discover Christmas around every corner, as you come across a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Flurries are in the forecast for Disney Springs Town Center. In the evenings, delight in a magical snowfall, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping. Now Snowing In Celebration Now - December 31, 2023 Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier Snowing event is celebrating 25 years this year, offering one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Now Snowing is a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens style Carolers, photos with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, train rides, ice skating, and nightly snowfall at 6, 7, 8, 9pm. It’s a true throwback to the traditional family style holiday. Cranes Roost Park Light Up the Holidays Now – January 1, 2024 The City of Altamonte Springs and Duke Energy celebrate the tradition of lighting up Cranes Roost Park with live music, entertainment, fireworks, train rides, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Watch as the park comes alive with spectacular holiday displays featuring 200,000 lights and a 60-foot tree decorated with thousands of ornaments and garland. Tis the Season in Winter Garden December 1, 2023 - January 7, 2024 Downtown Winter Garden transforms into a winter wonderland for 38 days of Tis the Season, outdoor holiday movies, light shows, carriage tours, boutique stroll, farmer’s market, and holiday music on the plaza are here to enjoy. Orlando Area Sunday Farmers Markets Weekly, Every Sunday One of the most popular farmers markets in Central Florida, Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of Orlando at Lake Eola park, and takes place Sundays 10 am - 4 pm. Every week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors here selling everything from fresh food and produce, to local crafted jewelry, and much more, with a beautiful backdrop of Lakeside Park, this is a must go to farmers market on Sundays, 9 am - 2 pm. The popular East Orlando Farmers Market offers hand selected produce, creative local small business owners, along with botanical varieties to chose from. Every Sunday 11 am - 4 pm. Clermont Farmer's Market features over 60 vendors selling seafood, organic produce, and other household items, this popular market is the place to go on Sundays 9 am - 2 pm. Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 9 am – 2 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors. IDEAS FOR FREE THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO Disney Springs Disney Springs is a wonderful place to waste away a few hours or more, and it's free to visit, and parking is free too. Stroll through Town Center at Disney Springs to view vibrant displays from talented artists at the Art Walk, let the kids enjoy the interactive fountains, while everyone will love checking out a unique collection of stores including The Coca Cola Store, M&M's World, Lego Imagination Center and more. You can take a break at The Welcome Center with air conditioning, comfy chairs and freeice water. Enjoy the free entertainment atmultiple locations where individual musicians and bands perform in the evening, plus House of Blues frequently offers free live music at its Front Porch Bar, Raglan Road usually has free live music on their patio, and on a Saturday morning there is even a free kids club with lots of entertainment! Disney's Boardwalk Disney’s BoardWalk is gorgeous, built around a lake and is beautifully themed to be reminiscent of Cape May or Coney Island in the 1940s. It’s free to enter and fun just walking around and enjoying the atmosphere, in the evening you can enjoy street performers (jugglers, comedians, fire-eaters, jazz ensembles, etc.), and at any time of the day or nigh you can take a trip on a friendship boat! Walt Disney World Monorail Transportation You can take three different Monorail rides at Walt Disney World, all for FREE. The inner Monorail circles the three Monorail resorts, Contemporary, Polynesian and Grand Floridian. You can get off and explore each resort, or just enjoy the ride and the view, as often as you wish, altho at night you might just want to stop at the Contemporary and enjoy the spectacular view of the fireworks from the balcony, and yes its free. You can also ride the express Monorail that just goes between the Ticket and Transportation Center and the Magic Kingdom for the same view, but no stops at the resorts, although this can get very busy! The third option is the longest, and the Monorail from the Ticket and Transportation Center to Epcot is also a nice trip with great views of the resort, and you get to ride through the inside of Epcot for a great view of the park. Walt Disney World Water Transportation All of the water transportation options at Walt Disney World are free, and offer a relaxing way to enjoy the resort from the water, and is amazing day or night. Options include taking a friendship boat and cruising the loop around Crescent Lake, which visits Epcot, Boardwalk, Yacht/Beach Club, Swan/Dolphin, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios without going into the parks. Take the boat that visits the Magic Kingdom, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge and Ft. Wilderness, or the boat that visits the Polynesian, Grand Floridian and Magic Kingdom. Or another great option is the Water Taxi from Disney Springs to Port Orleans or Old Key West and back, along the Sassagoula River. Disney Skyliner Transportation You can ride the Disney Skyliner cable-car system for free, and this is a great option to get some great views of Walt Disney World from above. You can get on and off at Art of Animation/Pop Century Resorts, Caribbean Beach Resort, Riviera Resort and at Epcot and Hollywood Studios. In addition to taking a scenic ride, you can get off at one of the Skyliner resorts and take a stroll and explore for free. Universal CityWalk Universal CityWalk is a lively entertainment complex just before the entrance to Universal Studios and Islands Of Adventure, it’s FREE to enter and there is so much to do. Parking is costly during the day, but at most times of the year, parking after 6 pm is free. At CityWalk you can stroll, take in the atmosphere and simply enjoy people watching, or you can ride the free water taxi to the resorts and explore, a must do is the opera filled Italian piazza at Loews’ Portofino Bay Hotel. Back at CityWalk the kids will enjoy cooling off in the splash pad, and the adults will love the free nightly entertainment including outdoor DJ, stilt walkers and more. ICON Park Orlando Located in the heart of Orlando's International Drive, ICON Park offers attractions, dining, shoppings, entertainment and more. Not only is there a ton to see and do at ICON Park, admission to the complex is always free, plus parking is free too! It's a great place to stroll or simply sit back, relax and enjoy nightly light shows and people-watching on the central green, all without spending any money. Parks, Gardens and the Great Outdoors Orlando is blessed with an abundance of parks, gardens, and the chance to escape the tourists and enjoy the great outdoors where you'll get the chance to become one with nature. The variety of parks, gardens, nature trails, bike trails and more here in Orlando is breathtaking, get outside and enjoy! Lake Eola Park Lake Eola Park is a must visit, located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, with a sidewalk that circles the lake 0.9 miles in length, making it easy for visitors to keep track of their walking or running Relax amid beautiful flower beds and a spectacular view of Orlando’s skyline and the gorgeous Lake Eola, enjoy the swans and other birds inhabiting the park, or you can check out a free concert, movie or a play in the Walt Disney Amphitheater. Harry P Leu Gardens Explore an amazing botanical oasis nearly 50-acres minutes from Downtown Orlando. Harry P Leu Gardens features landscaped grounds and lakes, with walking trails all shaded by 200-year-old oaks and forests of camellias. Free entry days at Leu Gardens are offered on select Mondays throughout the year, check the website for details. The UCF Arboretum The Arboretum of the University of Central Florida is located on the main campus of the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, United States. Covering 80 acres, it contains more than 600 species of plants, including more than 100 bromeliads, in cultivated gardens. Lake Lotus Park Lake Lotus Park is the City of Altamonte Springs’ nature preserve. The total area is approximately 150 acres, including 120 acres of woods and wetlands. The park is a diverse, natural habitat that provides limitless natural encounters with flora and fauna. Oakland Nature Preserve West of Orlando, just 30 minutes from the attractions and nestled between Winter Garden and Clermont in the beautiful Town of Oakland, lies a "hidden gem." Oakland Nature Preserve is a150-acre preserve offering environmental education and ecotourism activities for visitors of all ages. Mead Botanical Garden With 47 acres to explore in Winter Park, your senses will come alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of the garden. Mead Botanical Garden offers hiking trails, creek, boardwalk, tall pine trees, greenhouse, butterfly garden, and pond that’s home to turtles, fish and wading birds. Kraft Azalea Garden This 5.22-acre public garden is located on the shore of Lake Maitland and is open year round from 8 a.m. until dusk. Kraft Azalea Garden is a beautiful park is shaded by enormous cypress trees that add to the old Florida charm of the 13-acre property Orlando Urban Trail The Orlando Urban Trail is located near Downtown Orlando and is considered the spine of Orlando’s trail network. The trail is approximately three miles long and runs from Lake Highland through Loch Haven Park, to Mead Garden in Winter Park. Highlights include connections to six lakes, Orlando Cultural Park, and the Gaston Edwards Trail. West Orange Trail The West Orange Trail is a 22-mile long multi-use rail trail. The paved trail passes through downtown Oakland, Winter Garden, and Apopka with most of its length built on old railroad alignments. Lake Nona Sculpture Garden The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is a 50,000 square-foot outdoor space designed for the exploration and discovery of a distinguished selection of sculptures from one of the world’s largest private art collections, The Lewis Collection. Orlando Wetlands Park The Orlando Wetlands Park is a man-made wetland designed to provide advanced treatment for reclaimed water from the City of Orlando and other local cities. The Park is 1650 acres in size and located in Christmas, Florida. Visitors can visit the Park seven days a week, between sunrise and sunset, to enjoy primitive and passive activities including, Photography, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding, and Guided Tours Cranes Roost Park Cranes Roost Park is at the heart of Uptown Altamonte surrounding Cranes Roost Lake. The lake is encircled by one mile of continuous walkway with benches and covered seating areas. Within the 45-acre park is a European-style plaza including a choreographed fountain show, a 62-foot picturesque tower and the Eddie Rose Amphitheater which features stadium-style seating and a one-of-a-kind floating stage. The Seminole Wekiva Trail The nearly 14 mile Seminole Wekiva Trail is a paved recreational trail that has been designated as one of Seminole County's Showcase Trails because of its length, beauty, and accommodation of many users. The section of the trail that runs west of the I-4 trail overpass to the County line at the Wekiva River is also a designated part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Dr. P. Phillips Community Park Dr. P. Phillips Community Park provides a range of amenities for the whole family to enjoy, including playgrounds, splash pad, plus sports fields, picnic areas & a dog run Wekiva Island Central Florida’s favorite watering hole Wekiva Island. Located just north of Orlando, Wekiva Island offers visitors the chance to experience the incredible natural springs in Florida. Explore the pristine Wekiva River and its fascinating Florida wildlife with more than 2,000 square feet of Island fun. Artlando Grab a map from the DT Orlando Information Center and go on a self-guided tour of downtown Orlando's streets to discover the contemporary sculptures which are Art Orlando. Not only will you get to know Downtown as you walk around, you’ll be seriously impressed by these stunning works of art. Orlando Murals Take a walk through downtown Orlando, and you’ll discover art in unexpected places, including larger-than-life butterflies, a vintage Orlando postcard, hanging gardens, even a parking garage covered with murals, and the latest downtown mural, Unbelievable Real! East End Market The East End Market is a neighborhood market & food hall in the Audubon Park Garden District of Orlando featuring a vast array of artisanal vendors in one marketplace, from bakers to pasta makers to coffee roasters. Church Street Station The unofficial centre of Downtown Orlando, Church Street really is the place to go for first-timers wanting to get to know the city a little better. It’s home to some of the city’s best restaurants, a bustling nightlife scene and the iconic Railroad Depot (that now sits alongside the newly-built ‘SunRail’). For more than 100 years, Church Street has been the heart of downtown Orlando. The revitalized Church Street Station continues this tradition, offering an eclectic mix of dining, entertainment, retail and business for locals and tourists alike. Discover several clubs, theatres, shopping dining and more! Plus, check out the iconic ad historic Railroad Depot, that sits alongside the modern SunRail station. Celebration Town Center Travel back in time to find the town of Celebration in Kissimmee, a planned community originally developed by the Walt Disney Company. This is a pedestrian-friendly, wonderful small town where you can explore the old-fashioned downtown, including Market Street, and Lakeside Promenade, or you can enjoy the miles of walking paths and nature trails. On Market Street there is various events throughout the year including craft festivals, antique car shows, and a wonderful holiday event where it snows on Market Street every night. Check out the events calendar for more details. Old Orlando Mixing architecture and history is a great way to spend the day and learn more about downtown Orlando with a self-guided Historic Districts Walking Tour. You’ll learn about structures that were designed and built when horses were still clopping along Church Street and see how they’ve been adapted for modern uses. The Downtown Orlando Historic District Self-Guided Walking Tour gives you the opportunity to experience Orlando history first hand. This self-guided walking tour is available online. Thornton Park Just east of the central Lake Eola, you’ll find this cool and quiet neighbourhood that really feels like you’ve escaped the city for an out-of-town suburb. This charming neighborhood is home to some of Orlando's best restaurants, hip cafés, cool galleries and a few bistros, all set around some ever-so-quaint old cobbled streets. Well worth a few hours to stretch your legs and take in the sights and sounds of Thornton Park. Campus Tour At Rollins College From the sparkling waters of Lake Virginia to the energy of the residential halls, Rollins College’s 80-acre campus really has to be seen to be believed. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the campus by booking a spot on one of the daily campus tours or by signing up for one of the special on-campus events Dinky Dock Spend a day at the beach in Winter Park. Dinky Dock is a 1.56-acre year-round park and offers a fishing pier and boat ram.Yes there is a beach and swimming is permitted. Winter Park The Orange County city of Winter Park, situated north of Orlando, was once considered a winter resort. Today, the arts- and culture-filled city of Winter Park includes Rollins College and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art. Winter Park is also is a nature lover's destination. In Winter Park you'ill find more than 70 parks, all home to various events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year, plus don't miss the dining, shopping, the arts and more in the Park Avenue District. Winter Garden Nestled on beautiful Lake Apopka about 20 minutes west of Orlando, this former citrus town established in 1908 is known for its many recreational amenities, events and historical assets. Winter Garden is home to the Garden Theatre, the SoBo Gallery and Art Center, several museums and the Downtown Pavilion, which is home to the Winter Garden Farmers Market that is held every Saturday morning. Whatever You Do This Weekend, Have An Awesome Time! For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

K-pop girl group Odd Eye Circle have announced a 2024 Volume Up Tour including dates in the US and Mexico. K-pop trio Odd Eye Circle, comprising HeeJin, Choerry and Kim Lip have announced their upcoming 10-date tour of the US and Mexico, set to take place across January and February 2024. The tour will kick off on January 12 at New York’s Town Hall venue, before moving moving to Orlando on January 14, 2024, with the group taking to the stage at Hard Rock Live. Starting Thursday, December 14 at noon enter the code ARTMS to get your tickets before tickets go on general release on Friday, December 15 at 10 am. Get tickets here. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has reopened ahead of schedule following an extended refurbishment, and despite many rumours, the ride has received no major changes to the theming. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios closed back in late February for an extended period of refurbishment, at the time no details of the refurb was announced, and although no reopening date was revealed, the coaster was not expected to reopen until July. With the refurbishment completed ahead of schedule, Walt Disney World reopened the coaster yesterday just in time for the Memorial Day Weekend crowds! The ride did close earlier than the park at around 8.15 pm, and with Disney not announcing the reopening yet, we can expect the ride will be in soft opening for at least a few more days. So is there any change to the coaster? The retime has concentrated on general maintenance, and track improvements, there is NO changes to the theming of Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster, the attraction still features Aerosmith despite the rumors that Queen oranother band or theme might replace them. So despite the multi year rumours that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster was set to be rethemed, and frontman Steven Tyler sued for sexual assault, Tyler and Aerosmith lives to see another day, this refurbishment at least...

Celebrate the holiday season in Tampa's Downtown at Winter Village, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning, in Curtis Hixon Park! Outdoor ice skating – in Florida? Festive magic makes it possible at Curtis Hixon Park's Winter Village. The picturesque waterfront park shines in Downtown Tampa for a celebration full of jubilation and festive cheer. Take to the ice, discover seasonal shopping, or hop aboard the Winter Village Express for a merry journey through downtown, complete with onboard cookies and milk Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages. Winter Village, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning is on now, and runs through January 1, 2024 Highlights for 2023 include: The Shops of Winter Village The Shops of Winter Village, feature boutiques from local makers and purveyors offering a gift idea for everyone on your list. Café At Winter Village Taste the spirit of the holiday season by visiting the Cafe at Winter Village. Winter Village Express The Winter Village Express will make its way from Downtown’s Whiting Station to Ybor and back on the TECO Line Streetcar. Join us for this one-hour, round-trip excursion that is fun for the entire family!Our trip features a holiday sing-a-long, holiday trivia, milk & cookies, and added surprises along the way. 360 Degree Light Show Powered by TECO, the light show occurs nightly with four shows at the top of the hour. For the latest news and events from throughout Orlando and Central Florida, check back often here at Gotta Go Orlando as we keep you updated throughout the day, every day. You can also stay updated with the latest news and events on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, you should subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel!

There's always a ton of things to do in Orlando, and every weekend we bring you the best things to do throughout Central Florida, check out the list and have fun deciding what to do this weekend! The Best Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend! Multi-Day Events Friday, Dec. 15, 2023 Saturday, Dec 16, 2023 Sunday, Dec 17, 2023 MULTI-DAY EVENTS A Swingin' Christmas: The Holiday Music of Tony Bennett Select Dates, Now - December 16, 2023 Southeastern Regional Premiere at The Winter Park Playhouse! Ring in the holidays with this unforgettable evening of quintessential Tony Bennett! Featuring eighteen holiday classic holiday tunes plus the standards that made Bennett famous like "I Wanna Be Around," "The Good Life," "Rags to Riches" and of course Tony's signature song, "I Left Heart in San Francisco." The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical Now - December 17, 2023 Osceola Arts presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical. It’s everyone’s favorite time of year and the annual Christmas pageant! This year the town’s most mischievous kids, the Herdmans, all want starring roles…but not without a few script changes first. In this jolly and heart-warming musical, witness the spirit of Christmas truly come to life in their small town! Gatorland Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down December 16 - 17 The Alligator Capital of the World. Gatorland is hosting a Ho Ho Ho-Down this holiday season and everyone is invited to join the party! Enjoy madcap festive fun for all the family at Gatorland’s Fourth Annual Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down Christmas Event, where else can you meet Gator Claus, Krampus Croc and more. All the fun and games are included with the regular price of admission. Ophelia: A New Musical Now - December 17, 2023 This brand new musical reimagining of Ophelia’s story at Fringe ArtSpace explores the pressures society places on women and finding oneself in a sea of opposing voices. Get tickets now! Disney Jollywood Nights Select Dates, Now - December 20, 2023 Disney Jollywood Nights is a new, separately ticketed event taking place at Disney's Hollywood Studios, get ready to dress in your holiday glam best or festive flair, dance the night away to merry mashups, indulge in divine treats and bubbling spirits, and snap selfies with iconic characters during this new festive event. For an extra dose of cheer, the party wraps with the return of the nighttime spectacular, “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Select Nights, Now - December 22, 2023 One of Walt Disney World's favorite holiday tradition, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is returning to Magic Kingdom Park this year. Holiday magic is unwrapped with the return of festive favorites like the Christmas extravaganza stage show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration,” the sparkling spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the merry must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” Santa's Workshop At ICON Park Select Nights, Now - December 22, 2023 The entire family can enjoy The Santa Workshop Experience at I-Drive's entertainment destination ICON Park, which has been magically transformed into a winter wonderland, where families can partake in the annual tradition of taking holiday pictures together and the kiddos can meet the main man in person, Santa Claus!. Each child that participates in The Santa Workshop Experience will even receive a free ride on the new Carousel on The Promenade, and they’ll also be provided a complimentary ride on The Wheel in a holiday-decorated capsule and access to the VIP no-wait line. Eola Winter Wonderland Select Nights, December 1 - December 23, 2023 The most wonderful time of the year is here in Orlando, and the city invites Central Florida residents and guests to celebrate the holidays with family-friendly holiday events and activities for all ages to enjoy at Lake Eola including: Eola Wonderland Snowfall: Experience a Florida snowfall in downtown Orlando near the Eola House. Snow will fall for 15 minutes on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Downtown Orlando Merry Market: Enjoy downtown’s Merry Market where shoppers will find the best in arts and crafts and more. The market will be located on the east side of Lake Eola Park on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. Santa Claus at the Eola House: Santa Claus is coming to the City of Orlando and he’s not camera shy. Parents have festive picture-taking opportunities for their children with Santa at the Eola House every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm Oh, What Fun! Lake Nona Now - December 23, 2023 With nightly snowfalls, live entertainment, photo ops and memorable encounters that will amaze and enchant, Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical for everyone. Enjoy all your favorite chilly-weather foods as sweet-treats stations and pop-up stands offer specialty snacks and beverages made especially for the season. Enjoy classic Christmas tales with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Cottage. Stroll through Lake Nona’s very own Holiday Market for some Christmas shopping or explore the Evergreen Christmas Tree Trail. Beach Nights at Aquatica Orlando Saturdays, Now - December 23, 2023 Every Saturday, guests can visit Aquatica Orlando for daytime fun, and then when the sun goes down, guests can watch some of their favorite family-friendly holiday movies on the beach, and it’s all included with park admission. Guests are encouraged to bring a towel or take a seat in one of the many lounge chairs available and enjoy this special experience. Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! Now - December 23, 2023 Ring in the holiday season at Orlando Family Stage with Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! Junie B. Jones, First-Grader, is super-excited about the upcoming Holiday Sing-Along and Secret Santa gift exchange at her school. Too bad tattletale May keeps ruining all of Junie B.’s fun. So, when Junie B. draws May’s name for Secret Santa, she comes up with the perfect plan to teach her nemesis a lesson! But will the Christmas spirit of peace and goodwill interfere before she can give you-know-who what she deserves? The Office Holiday Party Musical Extravaganza Show Now - December 23, 2023 With new original songs and a comedic cast of characters pulled straight from your neighboring cubicles, The Office Holiday Party Musical Extravaganza Show returns for a third year with drinks, mingling, scripted gift-exchanges, and a little bit of that good ol’-fashioned holiday spirit. Get tickets now for this fantastic production from Renaissance Theatre Company. Moonshine & Mistletoe: An Appalachian Christmas Tale Now - December 23, 2023 The Ballards, Lessy Boy and Curleen, welcome family and friends into their Appalachian mountain home to celebrate Christmas Day. In the midst of the Great Depression, they have no gifts to exchange, but instead, they share their love of Appalachian hymns and carols. Moonshine & Mistletoe at the Winter Garden Theater is a musical valentine to a bygone era and is a wholesome holiday theatrical event for the entire family. Chase Padgett: 6 String Christmas December 14 - 23, 202 This holiday season, the Orlando Shakes cabaret season features Chase Padgett, and 6 String Christmas. Purchase tickets now. Orlando Ballet Presents World Premiere: The Nutcracker December 8 - 24, 2023 Like young Clara, Artistic Director Jorden Morris dreams big as all will see when Orlando Ballet premieres this entirely new production of The Nutcracker. Supported by an elite dream team of designers of sets, costumes and lighting, this production is a wonderfully imaginative version of the world’s most beloved holiday tale. Staying true to the traditional story of a young girl’s love for her favorite Christmas gift bestowed by the town’s toymaker, Morris pairs Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic musical score with entirely new choreography to create a fresh and whimsical experience complete with giant snow globes, fancy mice, and a few high-flying surprises. Santa Photo Experience at The Mall At Millenia Now - December 24, 2023 The Magic of Santa is Back! Celebrate the holiday season with The Mall At Millenia once again as they present their classic Santa Photo Experience. Meet Santa at The Florida Mall November 16 - December 24, 2023 Bring your family, friends and even pets to meet Santa at The Florida Mall. Sensory-friendly sessions are also available on select dates with Caring Santa, created exclusively for children with special needs. Holiday Nights at ICON Park Now - December 25, 2023 The 20-acre ICON Park has transformed into a holiday wonderland with the arrival of the I-Drive District’s 50-foot decorated tree, nightly snowfall, Santa Workshop Experience, The Wheel’s holiday light and music show, carolers – and, of course, Santa himself. Guests are invited to bring a blanket, gather on ICON Park’s center lawn to enjoy the free nightly snowfall and magical light show, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and entertainment venues. Holinights Celebrations Select Nights, Now - December 25, 2023 The holidays are coming, and at the popular Promenade at Sunset Walk in Kissimmee, the Holinights are on the way too, bringing non stop holiday fun and entertainment. Holinights Celebration features Santa Claus, Mischievous Elves, Towering Toy Soldiers, Live Music & Tree Lighting Nightly, Snow Ball Fights with the Mischievous Elves, Holiday Craft & Street Markets, Car Shows & More! Pirates Dinner Adventure Christmas Show Now to December 25, 2023 Ho! Ho! Ho! If you’re looking for a new tradition the whole family will love, get ready for a jolly good time and a swashbuckling adventure right here in Orlando, Santa’s even made his way from the North Pole to Central Florida to celebrate the holidays at Pirates Dinner Adventure! Guests can experience the action, romance and excitement of the classic dinner show with a holiday overlay featuring Christmas music and a ship-side visit from a special guest at the end of the show. During the post-show Buccaneer Bash, guests can party with pirates and take pictures with the Jolly Old Elf himself! Wekiva Island's Winter Wonderland December 1 - December 25, 2023 At Wekiva Island enjoy nightly snow flurries plus extra entertainment and activities which are offered on select days and evenings, including outdoor movies and visits from Santa Claus. Winter Wonderland is back, and features the sparkling Christmas Tree Forest with a 30-foot Christmas tree! Plus nightly “snow” flurries, sparkling holiday décor, and special events for the whole family. Holidays At Disney Springs Now - December 30, 2023 Enjoy a host of holiday-themed activities and savor the comforting flavors of the season while shopping for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! Highlights Include: Meet Santa and enjoy festive holiday tunes with live musical performances and DJs. Plus, encounter Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Snowflake Skaters. Discover Christmas around every corner, as you come across a collection of elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees throughout the neighborhoods of Disney Springs. Flurries are in the forecast for Disney Springs Town Center. In the evenings, delight in a magical snowfall, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping. The Holidays At EPCOT Now through December 30, 2023 Embrace holiday traditions from around the world and delight in the telling of the Christmas story. Highlights include: EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth – Be immersed in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season from November 24 through December 30, 2023! Savor treasured recipes from around the globe at Holiday Kitchens. And embark on a journey with Holiday Storytellers sharing holiday traditions from around the world. Candlelight Processional – Hear the stirring story of Christmas presented by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by an orchestra and massed choir. More Holiday Entertainment – Watch as Holiday Storytellers bring beloved traditions such as Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Lunar New Year and more to life! Witness stories told through music and dance, with performers in traditional costumes—November 24 to December 30, 2023. Holidays In Space December 15 - December 30, 2023 Starflake's Holiday Voyage returns this year for Holidays in Space! From December 15 – 30, 2023, watch a nightly projected show on the massive exterior of Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex. Embark on a breathtaking journey with Starflake as she travels through the stars, Earth, and beyond. You will recognize familiar places along the way, like the Vehicle Assembly Building, International Space Station, James Webb Space Telescope and more. Festive holiday décor takes over the visitor complex throughout the entire month of December. The new favorite 50-foot tree with more than 61,000 pixels of light returns this year, as well as six-foot-tall astronaut nutcrackers, the NASA meatball-turned-holiday ornament and so much more Holiday Lights at Island H20 Water Park Now - December 31, 2023 slando H2O Water Park has revealed that Holiday Nights, an exciting new island-themed holiday light spectacular will take place select nights at the Kissimmee water park from November 8 to December 31. Visitors can look forward to hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, themed displays, unique photo spots, live entertainment, and tantalizingly themed treats and gifts, all which will transform Island H2O Water Park into an extravaganza for the whole family. SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration Select Dates, Now - December 31, 2023 SeaWorld Orlando’s award-winning Christmas Celebration returns with the sights, sounds and flavors of the holiday season. Included with theme park admission, the event transforms SeaWorld Orlando into a winter wonderland with more than 3 million sparkling lights. Enjoy all the family-friendly holiday entertainment, from the iconic Sea of Trees that dance to music as they light up the central lagoon, to delicious holiday treats. Experience fan-favorite holiday shows and seasonal entertainment throughout the park. And be sure to stay late to finish your evening with an impressive holiday firework show. The Holidays At Magic Kingdom Now - December 31, 2023 Get wrapped up in all things merry and bright, with sensational sights and holiday delights. The Magic Kingdom, truly is extra magical during the holidays, with beautiful decor, festive entertainment, and extra jolly eats and treats. Highlights this holiday season includes: NEW! Frozen Holiday Surprise – Gather ‘round Cinderella Castle for a dazzling new experience that will illuminate the castle like never before—featuring Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and the Snowgies! Seasonal Décor – Discover oh-so-jolly holiday trimmings and touches along Main Street, U.S.A. and throughout the park. Jingle Cruise – During the holiday season, the beloved Jungle Cruise undergoes a yuletide transformation. It’s a festive-yet-familiar adventure from stem to stern! Meet Santa - During the Holiday Week and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party you can meet Santa at the Liberty Square Gazebo. The Holidays At Disney’s Hollywood Studios Now - December 31, 2023 Embark on yuletide adventures in a park full of entertainment and thrills. Decor at Hollywood Studios includes SANTA GERTIE! There are also oversized Christmas ornaments in Echo Lake, as well as a giant Christmas tree, and other decor. You will also discover vintage inspired decor on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards, with snow falling along Sunset Boulevard. Highlights include: For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Enjoy an unforgettable holiday finale featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf. Minnie's Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine – See Minnie Mouse and her pals during an oh-so-merry meal. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. Toy Story Land Characters in Holiday Attire – See some Pixar pals decked out for the season. Now Snowing In Celebration Now - December 31, 2023 Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier Snowing event is celebrating 25 years this year, offering one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Now Snowing is a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens style Carolers, photos with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, train rides, ice skating, and nightly snowfall at 6, 7, 8, 9pm. It’s a true throwback to the traditional family style holiday. Holidays At Universal Orlando Resort Now - December 31 Anyone can “Ho-ho-ho” and “Fa-la-la” for the holidays. But if you want to scream, laugh and shout your jingle bells off, you’ve got to awesome up your season with Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort. Join the celebration of Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as Hogwarts castle lights up for the holidays and festive decor brightens up the streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Larger-than-life balloons float through the streets of Universal Studios Florida in Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, along with appearances by the Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me and some of your favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar films. Get together with the resident Whos in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, where you can enjoy the music and fun of The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular starring the Grinch. Holidays At LEGOLAND Florida Resort Select Days, Now - December 31, 2023 At LEGOLAND Florida Resort, this jolly time of year features a giant LEGO Christmas tree, unforgettable seasonal shows, holiday characters, special treats, LEGO activities, twinkling lights and more during Holidays at LEGOLAND! Oh and as extra special gift, this festive event is included in general admission! Cranes Roost Park Light Up the Holidays Now – January 1, 2024 The City of Altamonte Springs and Duke Energy celebrate the tradition of lighting up Cranes Roost Park with live music, entertainment, fireworks, train rides, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Watch as the park comes alive with spectacular holiday displays featuring 200,000 lights and a 60-foot tree decorated with thousands of ornaments and garland. Deck The Seas At SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando Now - January 1 Celebrate the holiday SEAson in an underwater wonderland at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. The Orlando aquarium has been transformed into an underwater winter wonderland, featuring creatures that love living in the cold, ready for guests to embark on a wintery cold-water scavenger hunt. Plus on weekends, you can meet SEA LIFe's Sharky dressed up in his holiday best! Ice at Gaylord Palms Resort Now - January 3, 2024 There's no better way to celebrate the holidays than by gathering your family for Christmas at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida. Step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of 2 million pounds of colorful ice with a dazzling display of larger-than-life sculptures, thrilling ice slides, and awe-inspiring tunnels. This must do holiday event in Central Florida will feature Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, who will be the stars of this year's holiday celebration as ICE! returns for 2023. In addition to the ICE! attraction, a sleigh-full of events and activities will be featured across the 64-acre resort. Christmas shows and activities are presented in the atrium, while parts of the convention center transform into Alpine Village, a bustling, holiday hamlet with Bavarian-style storefronts, immersive activities and one of Florida’s largest Christmas shops. Christmas Town At Busch Gardens Tampa Now to January 4, 2024 Celebrate the year with holiday cheer & gather with family and friends to create merry memories. Experience the joy of the season up close with animal encounters, thrilling rides, holiday inspired culinary delights and festive shows like Christmas on Ice Outdoor Ice Skating at Melia Orlando Now - January 4, 2024 Meliá Orlando Celebration has partnered with Glice to install a 38’ x 38’ rink next to the main lobby entrance that requires no water energy or carbon emissions. A sustainable alternative to traditional ice rinks, Glice Eco-Rink uses synthetic ice panels for year-round family fun. The rink is open to the public Oct. 15, 2023 through Jan. 3, 2024 from 4 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person for both adults and children and includes a pair of skates. Tickets are sold on-site at the rink. Dazzling Lights at Leu Gardens Now - January 6, 2024 Produced by Creative City Project, Dazzling Nights is back for its third year — and this time, it will be bigger and even more interactive. The all-ages holiday event transforms the 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens into a stunning winter wonderland featuring a million dazzling lights, shining forests, magical displays, music and beautiful sculptures. Highlights include a 70' long candy cane path, giant neon flowers, a brand new laser light show with live singers, meet and greet characters in an icy world, a giant, inflatable play area with a chimney slide, and so much more! Tis the Season in Winter Garden Now - January 7, 2024 Downtown Winter Garden transforms into a winter wonderland for 38 days of Tis the Season, outdoor holiday movies, light shows, carriage tours, boutique stroll, farmer’s market, and holiday music on the plaza are here to enjoy. Colorful Christmas at Crayola Experience Now - January 7, 2024 Experience the holidays Crayola-style at Colorful Christmas, hosted by Crayola Experience at The Florida Mall. Can you help Santa and his friends save the holiday? Enjoy some SNOWtastic adventures as you go! Meet animatronic Christmas characters and listen to them tell stories as you solve their riddles. Step inside a life-sized snowglobe, watch a light show starring Scarlet and her singing reindeer friends. All while crafting unique gifts from the heart! Enjoy holiday fun the Crayola way! All included in general admission. Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild Now - January 14, 2024 Experience Central Florida Zoo like you’ve never seen it before! See different, hand-constructed, larger-than-life illuminated lantern displays around the Zoo on a 3/4 mile path. Celebrate the art, beauty and wonder of traditional Asian lantern festivals. FRIDAY, DEC. 15, 2023 10 Years of Wage War December 15, 2023 10 Years of Wage War comes to House of Blues Orlando. Get your tickets now! Gillian Carter 18 Year Anniversary December 15, 2023 Gillian Carter 18 Year Anniversary Featuring Gillian Carter, with Special Guests: Horsewhip, The Caution Children, WEAK at Will’s Pub - Orlando. HOLIDAY HAVOC ft/ Dark Divine, Colorblind, and more December 15, 2023 HOLIDAY HAVOC ft/ Dark Divine, Colorblind, and more is coming to Conduit. Get your tickets now! Lil Darkie and The Collapse of Modern Society December 15, 2023 Lil Darkie and The Collapse of Modern Society comes to The Social. Get your tickets now! 12+ Martin Ikin December 15, 2023 Martin Ikin comes to Celine Orlando. Get your tickets now! 18+ Rod Wave December 15, 2023 Rod Wave is making his debut performance at Amway Center on December 15. Sugar Plum Fairy's Winter Tale December 15, 2023 Orlando Metropolitan Ballet proudly presents "The Sugar Plum Fairy's Winter Tale, " a Two-Act ballet set in the enchanting world of Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker." The Illusionists - Magic of the Holidays December 15, 2023 Celebrate the holidays with the entire family at The Illusionists - Magic of the Holidays at Dr Phillips Center, a mind-blowing spectacle featuring the jaw-dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Walker & Royce: No Big Deal Tour December 15, 2023 Walker & Royce: No Big Deal Tour comes to The Vanguard in downtown Orlando. Get your tickets now! 18+ Ugly Sweater Soiree December 15, 2023 Ugly Sweater Soiree at Hometown Market, Winter Park. Hors d'oeuvres, drink specials, photo ops, Christmas music, and more including an ugly sweater contest with prizes. Nutty Nutcracker December 15, 2023 A fun twist on a traditional holiday classic that incorporates various dance styles including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, and hip hop. 100% of the proceeds from Nutty Nutcracker at Northland Church, Longwood, go to BASE Camp Children's Cancer Foundation. Altamonte Springs Holiday Concerts December 15, 2023 Enjoy live music from artists performing holiday hits at Altamonte Springs Holiday Concerts in Cranes Roost Park. Plus, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Plaza. Food and beverages available for purchase. Admission is free. Holiday Friday Nights at the Morse December 15, 2023 The Morse Museum invites all to celebrate the holidays season this year with free admission from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and live music from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Art After Dark at Lake Nona Every Friday Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center from 6 pm. Enjoy a stroll through our Town Center as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while to enjoy the art displayed on the six story art installation, The Beacon. Sunset Walk Fired-up Fridays Every Friday Friday nights, the Promenade at Sunset Walk presents Fired-Up Fridays, a free Car & Truck Show event with all makes, models, and years welcome of show car quality. Featuring music by DJ Scotty B and Company, plus the very best regional live bands. Winter Garden Friday on the Plaza Every Friday Come enjoy live music every Friday night on the Plaza, at Downtown Winter Garden, Centennial Plaza Gazebo. Friday Muscle Car Show & Cruise Every Friday Join the heart pounding excitement of high-performance engines and true horse power for our Muscle Car Show every Friday night at Old Town in Kissimmee. The Friday Muscle Car Show will begin at 3:00pm and the qualifications are show-quality muscle and factory-performance cars from 1964 and newer and classics from 1985 and older. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm and all cars registered can participate. Duel of Fools at SAK Comedy Lab Every Friday and Saturday This is SAK’s signature improv show! Two teams of professional improvisers compete for your laughs with audience judges selected at the start of the show. The actors make up songs, scenes and characters right in front of your eyes with the help of the audience’s suggestions and participation. Appropriate for all ages. 7 pm. King Of The Hill at SAK Comedy Lab Every Friday and Saturday In this knockdown, drag-out comedy battle, a cast of our professional performers pair up in teams of two and use audience suggestions to create scenes, songs and characters on the spot. After each round, the audience decides which team wins and which team loses. The winning team stays for the next round while the losers form new teams to dethrone the Kings. By the end there can only be one King of the Hill! 9 pm. SATURDAY, DEC. 16, 2023 10 Years of Wage War December 16, 2023 10 Years of Wage War comes to House of Blues Orlando. Get your tickets now! Chuck Magid's 8th Annual X-Mas Rager December 16, 2023 Oriented Music Group presents the 8th Annual X-Mas Rager with Chuck Magid & the Tuesday Night Squad on Saturday, December 16th at Will's Pub. Chuck Magid and the gang will be joined by Nesto's Jazz Trio and John Lee Wyatt to help kick off the holiday festivities. Eyehategood, Plague Spitter, and More December 16, 2023 Eyehategood, Plague Spitter, and More comes to The Conduit. Get your tickets now! 18+ Mr. Martini December 16, 2023 Mr. Martini performs live at Lil' Indie's on December 16th, 2023 - Free, 21+ Orochi + DJ W December 16, 2023 OROCHI ,DJAY W, AKAIO MC, OKASHII comes to The Vanguard in downtown Orlando. Get your tickets now! 18+ CFCArts presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. December 15 - 16, 2022 The holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “A Holly Jolly Christmas,” Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. features all of your favorite characters, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. Sanford Jingle Jam December 16, 2023 Join us in beautiful Historic Downtown Sanford for the 6th Annual Jingle Jam Community Holiday Party presented by Wayne Densch! Sanford Jingle Jam has become one of the largest family events in downtown and draws thousands from all over Central Florida! Featuring multiple stages of live music, award-winning food trucks, carnival games, holiday artisanal vendors, drink specials and more! See Santa himself and create lifelong memories and take some family pictures!! Plenty of free parking, pet and family friendly! Mark Tremonti Sings Frank Sinatra Christmas Special December 16, 2023 The lights go down. Familiar horns pipe up from a world-class orchestra as piano twinkles like the jackpot lights on a winning slot machine. Then, the voice kicks in. It has all of the smoky splendor those first few notes hinted at, but it ain’t Ol’ Blue Eyes. In a tailored suit with microphone in hand, it’s Mark Tremonti at Dr Phillips Center. NCAA's Cure Bowl' Fan Fest & March 2Cure Parade December 16, 2023 Don't miss Fan Fest at Cure Bowl a pregame extravaganza outside FBC Mortgage Stadium gates (11am to 3pm) preceding the 3:30 kickoff to the 9th Annual Cure Bowl. This FREE, vibrant community event offers food, music, a battle of the bands, an opening ceremony, and more – all dedicated to honoring the remarkable resilience of cancer survivors. You'll have a great vantage point to see the March 2Cure parade. Plus, upgrade your gameday experience with tickets to Tailgreeter VIP Tailgate, Orlando Sports Foundation Member Event, or one of the official Cure Bowl alumni celebrations. NCAA's Cure Bowl December 16, 2023 The Cure Bowl is more than a game. Played in December each year in Orlando, Florida this NCAA college football bowl game is televised nationally on the ESPN family of networks. The 2023 game will be televised on ABC. Disney Springs Kids Club Every Saturday Dance, play and be entertained at engaging shows for kids of all ages at the Disney Springs Kids Club, taking place every Saturday. Free Entertainment and Free Parking. Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise Every Saturday Join Old Town in Kissimmee every Saturday and take a trip down memory lane. The Old Town Classic Car Show has been a local tradition for over 30 years, it is one of the premier weekly car shows in Central Florida. The Saturday Classic Car Show begins at 1:00pm and welcomes show-quality 1985 and older hot rods, street rods, and antiques. Cars will cruise at 8:30pm. The event is free for participants and free for the public to attend. Live Music on the Lawn in Lake Nona Every Saturday Live on the Lawn is your Saturday oasis to relax and recharge while listening to live music and playing lawn games with family and friends. Join Lake Nona from 11 am – 3 pm every Saturday! Show Car Saturday Nights at Promenade at Sunset Walk Every Saturday The Promenade at Sunset Walk is home to Show Car Saturday Nights. All makes and models are welcome and displayed along Margaritaville Boulevard. Car enthusiasts will enjoy the music of DJ Scotty B while admiring an amazing collection of classic to modern automobiles, with live bands performing on the Promenade Plaza Stage nightly. Orlando Area Saturday Farmers Markets Every Saturday The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is one of the best produce and plant markets in Central Florida which takes place every Saturday morning from 8 am - 1 pm in Central Park. The Lake Mary Farmers Market features local vendors of produce, plants, baked goods, and arts and crafts. The market is open every Saturday, from 9 am - 1:30 pm at Lake Mary City Hall. Visit every Saturday at the City of Longwood Farmers Market at Reiter Park from 9 am - 2 pm, with locally sourced seafood and produce to handmade crafts and more. Join in every Saturday morning in Lake Nona, the Lake Nona Farmers Market takes place in the beautiful Town Center from 11 am - 3 pm, shop local with the freshest produce and more. Duel of Fools at SAK Comedy Lab Every Friday and Saturday This is SAK’s signature improv show! Two teams of professional improvisers compete for your laughs with audience judges selected at the start of the show. The actors make up songs, scenes and characters right in front of your eyes with the help of the audience’s suggestions and participation. Appropriate for all ages. 7 pm. King Of The Hill at SAK Comedy Lab Every Friday and Saturday In this knockdown, drag-out comedy battle, a cast of our professional performers pair up in teams of two and use audience suggestions to create scenes, songs and characters on the spot. After each round, the audience decides which team wins and which team loses. The winning team stays for the next round while the losers form new teams to dethrone the Kings. By the end there can only be one King of the Hill! 9 pm. SUNDAY, DEC. 17, 2023 Adventures On Tap "Happy Roll-I-Days" December 17, 2023 Adventures On Tap "Happy Roll-I-Days" Show at The Conduit. 12:00PM EST (Doors: 12:00PM ) All Ages Dirty Dancing in Concert December 17, 2023 Dirty Dancing in Concert, the classic film’s first live film-to-concert experience. Enjoy the digitally remastered hit film like never before on a full-size cinema screen, with a live band and singers performing the film’s iconic songs. With a soundtrack that marked a generation, Dirty Dancing in Concert promises to bring a thrilling new and unique experience to the 80s classic. Directly following the film, the band and singers will throw an encore party that will surely take you back to the time of your life as you sing and dance along to your favorite Dirty Dancing songs. Jinglerock Orlando December 17, 2023 Montgomery Drive and The Forum Present: Jinglerock Orlando: The Forum, Mirror Parts, Homemade Haircuts, Driveaway, Sofia Camille at Will’s Pub - Orlando. Open Mike Eagle December 17, 2023 Open Mike Eagle is coming to Conduit. Get your tickets now! 18+ Sunday Punk Brunch: Teen Agers (Farewell Show) December 17, 2023 Sunday Punk Brunch: Teen Agers (Farewell Show) with Special Guests: The Eradicator, Porch Coffin, Debt Neglector, SHEHEHE, Curtains, Leg Biters, The 4Js, The Miller Lowlifes, Sad Halen. Food Trucks + Free Minosas. Will’s Pub -AND- Lil Indies.. Milk Mart Holiday Market December 17, 2023 It's beginning to look a lot like the holidays! Eat, shop, and be merry with us in for a day of last-minute holiday shopping together at Milk Mart! Join us on December 17th for Milk Mart's annual Holiday market; the last Sunday before Christmas, it's often your last chance to snag local goods from a market setting... and you know we bring the goods! With over 250 local vendors, artists, and businesses to shop from, there's something for everyone on your list. Men's Closet 2023 Christmas Toy Drive Giveaway December 17, 2023 Men's Closet, in partnership with its non-profit organization MC Community Care, is hosting a Christmas Toy Drive Giveaway in Orlando, FL, on Sunday, December 17th, from 12 PM to 4 PM at Men’s Closet (5510 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808). This event is open and free to the public. We will have toys for children, face painting, balloon animals, a gaming truck, workshops, free food, music, and multiple vendors on site.Join us this holiday season to give back to the community, entrance is free for everyone! Bazaar Botanica: Yule Market December 17, 2023 The Yule Market featuring 30 talented local artisans and shops showcasing their unique creations. From handcrafted treasures, vintage finds, original art, to one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone. Orlando Area Sunday Farmers Markets Every Sunday One of the most popular farmers markets in Central Florida, Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of Orlando at Lake Eola park, and takes place Sundays 10 am - 4 pm. Every week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors here selling everything from fresh food and produce, to local crafted jewelry, and much more, with a beautiful backdrop of Lakeside Park, this is a must go to farmers market on Sundays, 9 am - 2 pm. The popular East Orlando Farmers Market offers hand selected produce, creative local small business owners, along with botanical varieties to chose from. Every Sunday 11 am - 4 pm. Clermont Farmer's Market features over 60 vendors selling seafood, organic produce, and other household items, this popular market is the place to go on Sundays 9 am - 2 pm. Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 9 am – 2 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors Whatever You Decide To Do, Have A Great Weekend! For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.

New for 2023, Give Kids The World's tree-mendous Holiday VIP Tours enable guests to experience the enchanted Give Kids The World Village all decked out for the holidays. Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, nonprofit "storybook" resort in Central Florida. Here, children with critical illnesses and their families are treated to weeklong, cost-free vacations, and this holiday season, Give Kids The World all giving the public a chance to enjoy a rare, escorted VIP Tour. This exciting holiday event is a must visit for the holidays here in Central Florida. During Holiday VIP Tours, guests enjoy escorted access to the Avenue of Angels, illuminated with more than one million lights. Guests can also view a dazzling tree trail; explore decorated vignettes from Give Kids The World partners; take festive photos with fun props and backdrops; and view decorated wish family villas, all for a wonderful cause. Proceeds will make magical dreams come true for critically ill children and their families during life-changing week-long, cost-free wish vacations at the Village. Tickets for the Holiday VIP Tour are only $59.99 per person, with all proceeds benefiting Give Kids The World. Tickets are extremely limited for the remaining dates, December 15, 16, 21, and 22. Get your tickets now for this magical event now, supporting such a worthwhile cause. Rated Four Stars by Charity Navigator, Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort in Kissimmee, Florida, that provides week-long, cost-free wish vacations to critically ill children and their families from around the world who want to visit Central Florida. A stay at the Village is much more than a vacation. During one incredible week, wish families laugh, play, and create priceless memories together away from hospital visits and medical procedures. It's a magical week of "YES" where wish kids can experience the simple joys of childhood, and where families can recapture some of the precious moments that may have been missed due to illness. Since 1986, Give Kids The World Village has welcomed more than 188,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries. The Village is made possible by the support of generous donors and community partners, as well as thousands of passionate volunteers – who donate their time and talent making wishes come true. Learn about volunteer opportunities For the latest news and information from throughout Central Florida, here at Gotta Go Orlando we keep you informed throughout the day, every day. You can also keep up to date with us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel, for the best of Orlando.