Search this site

The Alligator Capital of the World is hosting it's fourth annual Ho Ho Ho-Down this holiday season and everyone is invited to join the party! Get ready for madcap festive fun for all the family at Gatorland’s Fourth Annual Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down Christmas Event, where Gatorlando celebrate the holiday season like nobody else in Florida.... where else can you meet Gator Claus, Krampus Croc and more!! And the best part? All the fun and games are included with the regular price of admission. Holiday Ho, Ho ,Ho-down is taking place December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, and 17, as the attractions signature holiday extravaganza unfolds with a delightful mix of music, festive displays, interactive characters, and an array of tempting seasonal treats available for purchase. Capture the essence of a distinctively Floridian holiday by snapping a photo with Gator Claus aboard his swamp-worthy sleigh. Meet the mischievous Krampus Croc, and sing along with the Florida Skunk Ape as he performs his favorite “Cryptid carols.” Discover an array of unique arts and craft vendors strategically placed throughout, providing a treasure trove of holiday shopping options to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Elevate your Christmas shopping experience with a visit to the acclaimed Gatorland gift shop, where Gatorland style awaits! All this and all of the alligators, wildlife, and the crowd-pleasing shows that have made Gatorland one of Florida’s most beloved attractions since 1949. Mark McHugh, President, and CEO of Gatorland, affirms, “Our Holiday Ho, Ho, Ho-Down has become a favorite family tradition for our visitors. It’s our goal to bring the holiday spirit to our guests in a way that only Gatorland can!” Join in for a season filled with fun, smiles, and lasting memories, capturing the essence of Gatorland at its best. Originally opened as a roadside attraction in 1949, the icon attraction is celebrating its 73rd Anniversary in 2022. Gatorland provides affordably priced family fun featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a breeding marsh with an observation tower, a free-flight aviary, a nature walk, a petting zoo, educational wildlife programs, an award-winning gift shop, Florida’s best train ride, Gator Gully Splash Park, on-site restaurant, and one-of-a-kind shows including Gator Jumparoo, Alligators-Legends of the Swamp, and Up-close Encounters. Popular adventure experiences inside the park include the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure. For more Gatorland info., visit www.gatorland.com or call 800-393-JAWS. 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!

Light up your season and save with 25% off on concerts, comedy shows, immersive workshops and more at Dr Phillips Center! Make your season brighter, from dance, concerts and comedy shows to immersive classes and workshops at Dr Phillips Center in Downtown Orlando. Save big with code SAVE now through Cyber Monday when you book online. 25% savings are available on a huge selection of upcoming shows at Dr Phillips Center, including: November 25 Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Presents Home for the Holidays November 26 Coco in Concert on Tour December 1 Johnny Cash – The Official Concert Experience December 10 - 24 Orlando Ballet Presents The Nutcracker December 17 Dirty Dancing in Concert 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!

From December 1 - January 1, SHELL-abrate with SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium in an underwater wonderland. Celebrate the holiday SEAson in an underwater wonderland at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. Just in time for the holiday season, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium at ICON Park is once again hosting the popular Deck the Seas event. 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! Deck The Seas takes place from December 1, 2023 to January 1, 2024 at Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, you'll find it easily right under The Wheel at ICON Park on I-Drive. 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.

Walt Disney World has revealed the showtimes for a jam-;asked schedule of Christmas Week Entertainment at Magic Kingdom. The holidays have arrived, and here in Central Florida, the theme parks are packed with locals, together with visitors from around the world, all wanting to celebrate Christmas in Orlando. The holiday week is one of the busiest weeks of the years in the theme parks, and as a bonus for everyone visiting Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World add lots of additional entertainment usually reserved for the ticketed Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Starting December 23, during normal operating hours at Magic Kingdom, guess to the theme park can enjoyMickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Showtimes: 8pm (December 23 - 29) For a limited time, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks will replace Disney Enchantment. Get in the Christmas spirit as your host—Minnie Mouse—invites you to take in a sparkling, yuletide fireworks display. Watch as the sky becomes alight with festive colors to the tune of some of your favorite carols like Deck the Halls and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. This merry display can be thoroughly enjoyed from most locations throughout Magic Kingdom park—including Liberty Square, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade Showtimes: 12pm & 3pm (December 23 - 31) The magical Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade featuring Santa replaces Festival of Fantasy Parade through until the New Year, and will be performed twice daily. The legendary street comes alive with yuletide spirit. Snap memorable photos of dancing gingerbread men, marching toy soldiers and beloved Disney Characters as they float by, waving hello. There’s even a special appearance by Santa Claus–riding in to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show Showtimes: To Be Confirmed (December 23 - 31) Head over to Cinderella Castle for a yuletide stage show, starring Mickey Mouse! Gather around Cinderella Castle as live performers dance and sing a medley of delightful holiday songs. 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!

Welcome to our Fall and Winter 2023 Theme Park Update with all the new attractions and events at Orlando's word famous Theme Parks, where there is always something new to enjoy! Happy Fall and Winter! Fall and Winter is an amazing time to be in Orlando, the main plus is the weather, the sizzling heat of summer is behind us and walking around a theme park is bearable again! As for what's new in the theme parks, while all the new rides for the year are already open, and most of the new attractions are too, there is a ton of new experiences, and things to do! Walt Disney World are celebrating the 100th anniversary of Disney, with new experiences, plus new attraction Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is opening at EPCOT. Plus, lets not forget about the amazing events that are happening in the park for Halloween and the Holiday Season. The theme parks go huge for Halloween and the Holidays, from scary halloween events to magical Christmas celebrations, trust us fall and winter is an amazing time to be in the parks! Read on for all the details, there is so much happening, have a great fall and winter! What's New At Orlando's Theme Parks & Attractions For Fall & Winter 2023 Walt Disney World This fall and winter at Walt Disney World there is so much to experience, Halloween and Holiday celebrations are on another local at Disney! Plus the celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary is underway at EPCOT. Disney 100 EPCOT is at the center of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World, from September 22 through until December 31. Have you taken a selfie with any of the Disney100 backdrops located at all four theme parks and Disney Springs? You can also soon snap a photo with a new platinum Mickey Mouse sculpture in World Celebration with Spaceship Earth in the background. And don’t forget about the dazzling Disney100 Magic Shots and PhotoPass offerings currently available across Walt Disney World. Mark your calendars because you’ll be able to meet, hug and snap a photo with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their platinum best in the Imagination! pavilion. They won’t be the only ones sparkling in honor of the celebration. Spaceship Earth will light up each night with special colors and lights accompanied by the Disney100 anthem, a unique rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star.” Our favorite part of any celebration is the food, and this one won’t disappoint! Sip and savor the tastes of the Disney100 celebration with limited-time food & beverage locations during both the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays! That’s not the only exclusive food and beverage you’ll be able to enjoy during the celebration! You won’t want to miss out on the purple metallic Mickey Balloon Premium Popcorn Bucket available only at EPCOT during Disney100. We can’t wait to join the excitement of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World from September 22 to December 31, 2023! The 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival It’s the tastiest time of the year as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE kicks off at Walt Disney World Resort, and continues through Nov. 18, 2023. That’s 114 days of tempting tastes, live entertainment and festival fun for all ages. Guests can set out on an international expedition of flavor visiting Global Marketplaces that showcase culinary delights from every corner of the world. Whimsical scavenger hunts and food strolls encourage guests to stop and savor every detail. And each evening, musical acts from yesterday and today take to the stage during the Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare. Special packages are available that include dinner in one of the park’s world-class restaurants and guaranteed seating for a concert performance. New Food, Spectacular Sips This year’s festival will debut with 25 Global Marketplaces – themed locations found throughout the park that offer a cornucopia of bites and sips. Another six Global Marketplaces will appear later during the festival. It all adds up to an unparalleled foodie experience that will delight both seasoned connoisseurs and curious palates. New at the festival this year, Brew-Wing Lab at the Odyssey invites guests to go on a flavorful adventure featuring the culinary creations – and madcap mishaps – of Muppet Labs. With Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his trusty partner Beaker as their hosts, festival goers can sample concoctions that include both traditional chicken wings and plant-based options. Delight in novel flavors like Unnecessarily Spicy, Yet Extremely Tasty Scotch Bonnet Pepper-Curry Wings with Cool Cucumber Yogurt and Peanut Butter and Jelly Sticky Wings. Here is the must-do's at Walt Disney World this fall and Halloween! Mickey’s-Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Calling all ghosts and ghouls: This experience is always a must-do! Treat yourself to an evening full of festive fun with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park beginning Aug. 11. The party, which runs through Nov. 1 on select evenings from 7 p.m. to midnight, includes new and returning spine-chilling fun you won’t want to miss. Here’s a shriek-peek at what’s new this year: Adventureland will be taken over by a spirited pirate band and their crew. Be sure to listen for their sea shanties while their shipmates roam the land sharing tales of their explorations at sea. Get ready for even more chances to “Stand Out” with Max Goof and his Powerline party pack at new pop-up parties throughout Magic Kingdom before this popular crew dances onto Main Street U.S.A. ahead of Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade. The Seven Dwarfs will be returning to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Even if you are a little bashful, stop by and say hello! They’ll be happy to see you. Mickey’s Boo-to-You Parade will be more villainous than ever, with favorite foes Ursula, Cruella de Vil, the Queen of Hearts and the newly announced Sanderson Sisters Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabell joining the frightful finale Festive Fall Decor Who doesn’t love a cozy-season selfie? Be sure to grab your favorite autumn attire and a pumpkin spice latte and get ready to strike a pose. From Aug. 10 to Nov. 1, Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom will be filled with pumpkins and scarecrows, and shops will be dressed with fall foliage and garlands, making it the perfect fall photo backdrop. Haunted Happenings There are so many ways to experience the fall vibe around Walt Disney World. At Disney Springs, you can listen to live music on the Waterside Stage from the Squad Ghoul each Friday through Sunday, Sept. 29 to Oct. 29. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, learn from a Disney animator how to draw a Disney villain, whether it’s Bruce from “Finding Nemo;” Kaa and Shere Khan from “The Jungle Book;” Tick-Tock from “Peter Pan;” or Scar from “The Lion King.” The villain animation line-up runs Oct. 1 to Oct. 31 and can be found at the Animation Experience at Conservation Station. Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine in Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a wickedly fun overlay this fall season that includes a chilling Halloween feast that’s frightfully delightful. Reservations for the festive experience are recommended and can be made on the Walt Disney World website! At Walt Disney World Resort hotels, be sure to look out for a variety of different fall-themed food and beverage items, including Thanksgiving meals at select resorts. Stay tuned for more tasty details! 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend Get your running shoes ready! The 2023-24 runDisney race season kicks off Nov. 2-5 with the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend. The popular collection of races includes a 5K, a 10K and a half marathon, as well as the Disney Two Course Challenge (10K and half marathon) and the Post-Race Party. Character Meet and Greet's Already this year we saw the return of many fan-favorite character experiences including Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel’s Grotto and Pete’s Silly Sideshow at Magic Kingdom Park, and Moana, from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film, now greets fellow voyagers on Discovery Island at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Pixar Pals have also returned at Disney's Hollywood Studios with a makeover, You can also meet Edna Mode, Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, Frozone, and Sulley from Monsters, Inc at the reimagined Pixar Place. Also at Hollywood Studios you can meet the live-action version of Ariel at Walt Disney Presents, also for a limited time, a sneak peek and props from the film will be available at the Walt Disney Presents Theater. Plus, this fall, guests will get the chance to hug long-time EPCOT icon Figment at the Imagination! pavilion. Also this fall, Mirabel from Disney Animation’s Academy Award-winning film “Encanto” will greet guests in the Fairytale Garden at Magic Kingdom, which will be transformed with whimsical décor inspired by la Familia Madrigal. TRON Lightcycle / Run Earlier this year Walt Disney world debuted TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise. Located in Magic Kingdom Park, it is the fastest coaster attraction in a Disney theme park, alongside its sister coaster at Shanghai Disneyland. The attraction masterfully blends coaster thrills with speed, visual effects, music and a one-of-a-kind ride system to create an experience like no other. Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana This fall bring even more exciting experiences as part of the multi-year transformation of EPCOT. Guests can explore the wonders of water when Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana opens. This fun interactive outdoor trail offers a chance to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way, guests learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality – just as Moana did on her heroic voyage. World Celebration Fall will also see completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature different gardens that change with the seasons. Dreamers Point It is also where guests will discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.” CommuniCore Hall When CommuniCore Hall opens in World Celebration later this year, it will be the center of festival programming throughout the park. In new renderings, you can see this will be home to a new character greeting location called Mickey & Friends. You’ll be able to meet Mickey Mouse and some of his best pals in this colorful space. Also located in the World Celebration neighborhood, CommuniCore Hall will be the home of a dynamic exhibition space that will transform with each festival throughout the year, as you can see here in one possibility imagined for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Playing with light, shapes and reflections, the architecture of this building was designed by Walt Disney Imagineering to celebrate the legacy of EPCOT and the original CommuniCore buildings. New Nighttime Spectacular Plus, a new nighttime spectacular will debut at EPCOT later this year, inviting everyone to gather around World Showcase Lagoon for a show that will unite us through commonalities of the heart in a dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different The Holidays At Walt Disney World From mid November through until New Year's Eve everywhere guests look throughout Walt Disney World they will be immersed in festive holiday decor at “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” Expect Christmas trees seemingly everywhere – more than 1300 at last count, some towering 65 feet! Theme parks, resorts and the Disney Springs dining, entertainment and retail district are transformed into all that is merry and bright. Decor highlights include Jolly trimmings and theming throughout Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom Park, while over at EPCOT enjoy dazzling international decor around World Showcase. Enjoy holiday glamour on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and oversized festive touches in Toy Story Land. Animal-inspired décor, luminaries on Discovery Island and holiday cheer that expats from Earth have brought to Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and enjoy nightly snow flurries and Disney-themed Christmas trees at Disney Springs. The resort hotels get in on the holiday sparkle too, with each resort decked out for the holidays. And a much loved tradition is the larger-than-life gingerbread displays during the holiday season at select locations. The Holidays At Magic Kingdom 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! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. One of Walt Disney World's favorite holiday tradition, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is returning to Magic Kingdom Park this year. On 25 select nights, Nov. 9-Dec. 22, this separately ticketed event will welcome guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom. 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.” Guests can also look forward to enjoying some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which will use a virtual queue* during the event. New Year At Magic Kingdom Each New Year's Eve at Magic Kingdom, the new year starts with a massive bang as the Magic Kingdom’s Fantasy in the Sky fireworks light up the sky high above Lake Buena Vista. Magic Kingdom show their New Year's Eve Fireworks on December 30, as well as December 31. The Holidays At EPCOT 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. The Holidays At Disney’s Hollywood Studios 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. Jollywood Nights Disney Jollywood Nights is a new, separately ticketed event from 8:30 pm - 12:30 am on 10 select nights November 11 - December 20, 2023. Commissary Lane will come to life with a lively Latin Street Fair. There will be three Latin bands performing as part of the Fiesta en la Calle (festival in the street) on Commissary Lane. There will be festoon lights along this area, food and beverage, and street performers. Theater Of The Star Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy will host a live holiday special at Theater of the Stars with some of their Disney friends. The spectacular holiday themed musical variety show hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy will feature special appearances from Princess Tiana, Belle, Minnie Mouse, and Mickey Mouse. Hollywood Brown Derby Encounter glitz and glamor galore within The Hollywood Brown Derby, where the restaurant will be transformed into a jazz lounge featuring a sing-along piano bar. Animation Courtyard Meet Mickey Mouse and the rest of the iconic gang in Animation Courtyard on a hot set with holiday props. Hollywood Tower Hotel During Disney Jollywood Nights the park will reawaken the legendary Tip Top Club, where park guests will enter the Twilight Zone... Hollywood, 1938, and enjoy an "other-worldly soiree" at The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard. Jjoin a party worthy of Hollywood's elite, dance to a ghostly band, enjoy custom food and craft drinks, all the while be immersed in the Tip Top Club from the Tower of Terror. Hyperion Theater Sing-Along At the Hyperion Theater, the Frozen Sing-Along will be replaced with a special Nightmare Before Christmas show exclusive to Disney Jollywood Nights. Echo Lake Get into the spirit with your fave throwback friends including Powerline Max and Phineas and Ferb at Echo Lake where each meet-and-greet will feature its own Christmas Tree. Pixar Place Pixar Place will be transformed with a 1950s theme including food, beverage, and decor. Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM End the night with a bang – literally – when the festive favorite “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” returns. This Santa-sized nighttime spectacular, featuring the elf duo Wayne and Lanny from Disney Animation Studio’s “Prep and Landing,” is jam-packed with music, fireworks, special effects, and dazzling state-of-the-art projections. The Holidays At Disney's Animal Kingdom Discover the magic of nature—and enjoy seasonal delights along the way. Animal Kingdom features entertainment and decorations throughout the park. It all begins on Discovery Island, where you’ll be surrounded by a celebration of winter. The village is filled with sparkling white holiday decorations and colorful, animal-inspired luminaries, and throughout the day, the area springs to life with a Merry Menagerie of winter animals, accompanied by serenading musicians as they create a playful atmosphere of festive fun. Highlights include: Merry Menagerie – See Discovery Island come to life with artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals—like penguins, reindeer, foxes and polar bears. Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition – Watch in awe as the park’s magnificent icon shimmers and sparkles each evening, accompanied by a heartwarming musical score. Experience begins at dusk and is subject to change. Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Adventurer's Outpost – Pose for a photo with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse all decked out in their holiday attire. The Holidays At Disney's Blizzard Beach Splash into a watery winter wonderland brimming with cheer. Built around the mythical tale of a ski resort that melted into warm water, this 66-acre park features “snowy” scenery that’s sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Holiday highlights include: Daily “Snowfall” – Watch in awe as snow flurries fall from the sky Santa Claus – Be on the lookout for jolly ole St. Nick—vacationing in his holiday-finest beachwear Universal Orlando Resort Universal Orlando are currently working on multiple new attractions, plus a brand new Theme Park - Epic Universe which is due to open in Summer 2025. Minion Land For fall this year, the huge news at Universal Orlando is a brand new land is now open and it's bananas! Minion Land invites guests to step inside the world of the Minions, with unique dining experiences like Minion Cafe, Bake My Day and Pop-a-Nana, plus Minion Land will also be home to new Villain-Con Minion Blast Attraction and More... From blasting their way to supervillain stardom in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast to savoring tasty dishes at the Minion Cafe to snacking on banana-flavored popcorn at Pop-a-Nana and meeting fan-favorite characters along the way, here are details about the exciting new experiences that await in Minion Land: Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast Guests can put their villainous skills to the test in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast – an all-new attraction where guests compete against each other in a fully interactive gaming experience that’s so much fun, it’s a crime. Afterward, guests exit through Evil Stuff, an all-new retail location where they can stock up on Villain-Con and Minions merchandise. Illumination’s Minion Cafe It’s Minions in the kitchen, mischief in the dining room, and tons of tasty food at the new Illumination’s Minion Cafe – the marquee dining location within Minion Land. T his immersive new eatery offers something for every palate in a highly-entertaining dining experience that features three themed areas designed after beloved Minions Kevin, Stuart, Bob and Otto: the Kitchen – where guests will get a glimpse of the equipment and gear the Minions have used to whip up the cafe’s menu; the Breakroom – where guests can dine in the Minions’ break space that includes everything from “Office Safety Tips” to a vending machine stocked with mischievous items; and the Dining Room – a vibrant space adorned with colorful artwork courtesy of the Minions and more. Guests can also enjoy their meal on an outdoor patio that overlooks the fun of Minion Land. Bake My Day Topped with a massive pink cupcake that’s visible from anywhere in the land, Bake My Day is a whimsical retail location and bakery featuring a selection of Minion-themed sweet treats, including cupcakes, macarons, s’mores and more, along with exclusive Minion-inspired merchandise like apparel, plush, drinkware, accessories, keychains and more. Pop-A-Nnana Banana-flavored popcorn, anyone? This walkup location features sweet and savory popcorn inspired by the Minions’ love for bananas. Here, guests may also find an assortment of cute popcorn buckets, including the Minion Selfie bucket. Freeze Ray Pops Guests can cool off with a visit to Freeze Ray Pops, featuring a variety of colorful popsicles inspired by Gru, the Minions and Vector – along with beverages. Illumination Theater Guests can meet, greet and interact with beloved characters like the Minions, Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes, plus new additions from the hit film “Sing” – Rosita, Gunter and Johnny – at an outdoor Illumination Theater facade. Guests can also discover murals, photo ops and more throughout Minion Land that celebrate additional characters from popular Illumination films. Halloween Horror Nights Yes, Halloween Horror Nights is back for 2023, with Halloween Horror Nights 32 returning to terrify guests at Universal Orlando Resort from September 1 through November 4, 2023. This year, HHN 32 will feature 10 terrifying haunted houses, 5 sinister scare zones and one explosive show! So horror fans, are you ready to delve deep into what horrors await at this years event? The world’s premier Halloween event celebrates its 32nd year with a record-breaking 48 nights of immersing guests into the eeriest of experiences that could only be endured at Halloween Horror Nights – including a circus that’s spiraled into chaos, the long-awaited emergence of Halloween Horror Nights legend, Dr. Oddfellow, and a dark, resurrected story that delves into the haunting history of Universal attractions past. In the midst of the screams, guests can experience a disturbingly entertaining live show, an all-new Tribute Store, take a bite out of the horror with scary-good food and beverage, and so much more. Here’s a glimpse of what’s lingering in the fog at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2023. Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Haunted Houses The beating heart of Halloween Horror Nights is the haunted houses. Every year, Universal’s Entertainment team brings to life the biggest names in horror from movies, TV shows, video games, and urban legends in twisted, maze-like haunted houses. They also create their own original storylines that have given birth to iconic characters over the years. There’s no better way to celebrate Halloween than walking through your very own real-life horror movie where you’ve been cast in the role of playing the victim. This year's all-new terrifying haunted houses, include “The Exorcist: Believer,” inspired by the new Universal Pictures film from Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Entertainment, “Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” based on the popular USA & SYFY series, and “Universal Monsters: Unmasked,” inspired by Universal’s legacy of iconic cinematic monsters. Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Scarezones As the sun sets on Universal Studios Florida and ominous clouds fill the sky, Dr. Oddfellow steps out of Halloween Horror Nights past to fill the streets with hordes of taunting scareactors in five all-new scare zones. During Halloween Horror Nights, there is nowhere safe to escape to in the theme park. The streets transform into demented scare zones that are swarming with creatures and monsters that are birthed from the darkness like hellish demons, morbid deformities, and the undead. You are quite literally walking through real-life nightmares. Oh, and watch out for the roaming chainsaw hordes! Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Entertainment Guests can enjoy the all-new disturbingly entertaining show, Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream, that features a new dreamer confronting the creature that’s been turning her dreams into nightmares... Let your nightmares burn out of control as the pyro and aerial performers fire you up to the beat of metal and electronica. Halloween Horror Nights 2023 Tribute Store Each year Universal Orlando debuts a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store, an elaborately themed shopping experience to purchase the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise and treats, This years all-new Tribute Store will see guests enter a mysterious NYC Comic Book Shop and experience the “Tribute to Terror” by stepping into the pages of this original, terrifying, horror comic book. If you plan to visit the Tribute Store it can get busy, so if possible visit during regular theme park hours when it is also open, This allows you to save time and spend more time in the houses and scare zones. Dead Coconut Club Guests can enjoy a drink at the Red Coconut Club as it will once again transform to the Dead Coconut Club donning a new theme and menu. When guests want to take a bite out of the horror, they can enjoy a monstrous menu of all-new food & beverage items, including Bloody Campground Poutine, El Pastor Torta and Sour Apple Pie Funnel Fries, in addition to returning fan-favorites like Pizza Fries. Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar New this year, Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar will feature themed libations within an ominous nightclub vibe, photo opportunities, and more. Halloween Horror Nights At Universal Hotels For the first time ever, the fog has spread to all eight of Universal Orlando’s hotels with exclusive activations and experiences for hotel guests inspired by this year’s event, including Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort’s exclusive “Chucky’s Twisted Playground” photo illusion experience based on the USA and SYFY series, plus, the Universal Monsters Gallery of Legends lobby photo opportunities in all other hotel lobbies and more. For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com. SeaWorld Orlando SeaWorld Orlando has a ton of fun for Halloween and Christmas! Howl-O-Scream Returning for its third year on September 8, Howl-O-Scream runs select nights through October 31, and this year Howl-O-Scream isn’t just back at SeaWorld. It’s bigger and better than ever with ALL-NEW terrors. Haunted Houses Hear every bloodcurdling shriek. Feel every spine-tingling terror. Get ready for the haunted houses of SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. There’s no turning back as you brave dark passageways and round dimly lit corners, hoping you can avoid what’s lurking in the depths. The legends are true, the fear is real, and the only way out is through. Terrifying Shows Even amid so much mayhem, the show must go on. Duck inside and be mesmerized by a raucous, high-energy musical dance show. Or witness the outdoor spectacle as the ominous story of the one who has emerged from lake unfolds before you. Or take a break and hear adventure stories from the famed siren hunter, from the horrific to hilarious. Scare Zones & Roaming Haunts There are no safe zones. There are no places to hide. The scares are everywhere, and the roaming haunts never weaken. Get ready for immersive terror at every turn during SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. Stay alert and be prepared for anything, because you never know what’s waiting up ahead (or creeping up behind you). The Siren Beware the chilling legend of the Siren, a ghastly creature that haunts the depths of the sea. These otherworldly beings, with their seductive allure and horrifying beauty, lurk amidst the rocky isles and treacherous cliffs along haunted coastlines. Rides & Experiences Have you ever ridden your favorite attraction in the dark? It wouldn’t be a SeaWorld visit without a ride or two, but it wouldn’t be Howl-O-Scream without a dose of nighttime terror. Meanwhile, sinister interactive surprises await at your favorite bar haunts. After nightfall, every moment of fun comes with a splash of fear. Halloween Spooktacular SeaWorld’s Spooktacular is back with fun surprises, candy, costumes and more! Kids love trick-or-treating (with purchase of reusable bag) during this daytime event as they explore the decorated trail and meet colorful characters. This year be sure to check out all the immersive family Spooktacular Festivities and plan your visit this fall. SeaWorld Spooktacular runs select days, Sept. 16 – Oct. 31, and is included with park admission. Trick-Or-Treat Trail and Halloween Fun Discover all the Halloween family fun this fall from our not-too-spooky Sesame Street Halloween Parade to our Story time with Big Bird, there is so much to do and see during SeaWorld’s Spooktacular. Sesame Street Halloween Parade This colorful, musical, and show-stopping parade will get the whole family in the Halloween spirit. Dance and play along as Elmo, The Count, Big Bird and friends dress up for Halloween with surprises galore, so get ready for not-too-spooky Halloween fun! Halloween Storytime with Big Bird Gather around Big Bird’s nest to hear some of his favorite Halloween stories during Storytime with Big Bird, happening at select times throughout the day. Pumpkin Garden and Storyteller Wander through the Pumpkin Garden to see how many friendly pumpkin fish you can spot. During your travels, you may even run into the Pumpkin Queen as she reads stories in the garden, happening at select times throughout the day. Meet a Mermaid Meet our friendly Halloween mermaids each event day in this immersive experience in the Key West area. Halloween Cookie Decorating and Kids Crafts Kids will love decorating fun fall and Halloween crafts. Visit the area between Sesame Street Land and Wild Arctic on Spooktacular event days from 12PM - 4PM to participate. Crafts are included with park admission. An additional cookie decorating kit is available for purchase. Scarecrow Halloween Dance Party Join our scarecrows for a kid-friendly Halloween dance party! Music and fun fill the air in the Journey to Atlantis Plaza only at SeaWorld Spooktacular. Guy Harvey Weekend November 25 - 26 Join Guy Harvey for meet-and-greets, autographs, photo opportunities, and more. Christmas Celebration Select dates, Nov. 10 - Dec. 31 This is where holiday traditions are made, with delicious food, stunning live shows, delightful holiday shopping and joyous entertainment. More details will be announced soon! New Year's Eve December 31 Celebrate New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld with a spectacular fireworks display offering viewing areas around the park. More details will be announced soon! Pipeline: The Surf Coaster Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, debuted earlier this year at SeaWorld Orlando, feel the awesome power of the ocean in a whole new way on Pipeline, the first-of-its-kind surf coaster. Experience the rush of launching 110 feet up at 60 mph and feeling every bank and curve as though you’re really riding the waves, thanks to innovative dynamic seats that gives you unparalleled freedom of movement. Aquatica Orlando Fiesta Aquatica Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with us! This fun-filled, festive event happens Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 9 – Oct. 15 and is included with park admission. More event details coming soon. Beach Nights at Aquatica From thrilling slides like Riptide Race to relaxing waterways like Loggerhead Lane and more, we’ve got splashy surprises for the whole family. Aquatica’s pools and waterways are even heated to maintain the perfect temperature throughout your day during “Florida winter.” Oct28 a day of fun in the water stay late for family-friendly movies and games on Orlando’s largest beach! Bring a blanket or sit on one of our beach chairs and enjoy a different movie every weekend. Fresh popcorn, delicious food, snacks, hot chocolate, and fountain drinks will be available for purchase at Kura’s Beachside Panini. For additional Polynesian vibes, visit the new Trader Turi’s Tiki Bar for a selection of specialty cocktails, frozen favorites, adult hot chocolate and more. Select nights, October 28 - December 23. Turi’s Kid Cove The ALL-NEW Turi’s Kid Cove is now open at Aquatica Orlando! Grab your best buddies and get ready to splish, splash, spray, and play in this ALL-NEW water adventure attraction filled with watering palms, tipping buckets, spraying jets, water bobbles, and more. Plus, your kids can grab a tube and glide into fun on the ALL-NEW Tamariki Twirl, a kid-sized wave slide designed just for them! Other new attraction in the ALL-NEW Turi’s Kid Cove includes the slides, Zippity Zappity, Slider Rider, Racer Chaser, and Slippity Dippity. For more info on Aquatica Orlando check out the official website. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, on select nights from September 8 through October 31, 2023, with the event once again taking over the entire park, with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows and more. Haunted Houses Dark minds have been brewing new ways to terrify those brave enough to enter our sinister haunted houses with new unsuspecting scares. Scare Zones & Unpredictable Hordes The scares are everywhere as new terrors lurk in every corner of the park. Experience screams & frights at any moment as you make your way through several scare zones. Plus, with roaming hordes, horror awaits at every twist and turn. Pulse-Pounding Attractions With exhilarating coasters and thrilling attractions, guests can take on their favorite rides in the dark in between the frights and scares of Howl-O-Scream. Bring your fears to new heights on Iron Gwazi & SheiKra, then let the adrenaline rush as you launch into the shadows of Cheetah Hunt & Tigris. Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. This event contains intense adult content such as violence, gore, and blood. Oh yes it does... The Residence: Home For The Holidays is a fan favorite house at Howl-O-Sceam, where merriment turns murderous at a suburban family home, and this year Christmas arrives earlier than ever at The Residence, with all-new horrors eager to be unwrapped, but will you survive this silent night. In addition to The Residence: Home For The Holidays returning, Busch Gardens have already revealed that Ms. Stranglewood is back for more haunts this year, and has something sinister waiting behind every corner. Also coming to Howl-O-Scream this year is an all new scare zone, Big Ed's Demolition Derby, which features a rather sinister Big Ed! Step into the twisted and adrenaline-fueled world of Big Ed's Demolition Derby. He has pulled together some of the roughest, toughest, and meanest baddies from all over Howl-O-Scream and brought them here to compete— but there’s always room for some surprise guests. Step up and see how long you can survive and navigate this automotive nightmare. Another brand new scare zone for 2023 is Sin City Zombies, On the outskirts of the Vegas strip lies a small town that is home to some of the best entertainers to ever live, and is overrun by zombies who run rampant. Try your luck and hope your number wins because this is one town you don’t want to lose in. Also new to this years Howl-O-Scream is a brand new haunted house, D.H. Baggums, Circus of Fear. Come one, come all, to the most terrifying show you’ve ever seen! D.H. Baggum brings you all his monstrosities that are sure to make your spine tingle and your blood run cold! As unsuspecting patrons walked the midway, D.H. would capture them and take them backstage to carry out his evil plan. as you wander the midway, watch out for D.H. and his crew. don’t get distracted by the magic— you might just be the next FREAK to take the stage! Are you brave enough to be amongst the first to experience the circus of fear? Grab your tickets now, before it's too late!! Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular At Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular, from September 9 to October 31, guests will step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training! A costume parade, story time and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular will be casting magical spells, daily from 12 – 4 pm at the Festival Walkway. Christmas Town Celebrate the holidays at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and holiday-inspired culinary delights. Daily from November 13 through January 7, 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. Keep the holiday spirit shining bright from day to night with millions of twinkling lights and dazzling fireworks, plus heartwarming moments with Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer! Santa's North Pole Experience Join our jolly elves as they guide guests to see Santa in his workshop as he prepares for the holiday season. Great for Christmas photo opportunities, this fun and festive activity is perfect for making memories with your family and friends. Festive Shows & Entertainment Busch Gardens beams with twinkling lights and yuletide shows during Christmas Town! Be captivated by world-class ice skaters, festive fireworks on select nights, and even your favorite Sesame Street characters with special Christmas entertainment. Rudolph's Winter Wonderland Don't miss this photo opportunity and meet with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends at Rudolph's Winter Wonderland. Holly Jolly Express All aboard for Christmas Cheer! This locomotive is on track to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with favorite songs of the season and wild views of Busch Gardens' 65-acre veldt, home to giraffes, rhinos, zebras and more. Holiday Dining & Shopping Indulge in culinary delights featuring savory treats, festive sweets, and holiday beverages at select locations throughout the park before finishing your Christmas shopping with the perfect gift from one of our various storefronts. Serengeti Flyer Busch Gardens Tampa introduced a swinging new attraction for 2023, Serengeti Flyer which is the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, a screamin’ swing. With each swing, riders soar higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain while experiencing multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the Earth. Serengeti Flyer features twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher reaching speeds of 68 mph and a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak. Guests are seated back-to-back in rows of 10 across two gondolas, allowing for 40 guests to experience the ride at once. LEGOLAND Florida The LEGO DREAMZzz Universe has arrives at LEGOLAND Florida just in time for fall and winter. The LEGO DREAMZzz Universe is bringing lots of fun to LEGOLAND Florida, including a brand new 4D movie, scavenger hunt, and you can meet two brand new characters, as Mateo and Izzy have stepped through the portal into the park! Inside the cinema in Fun Town you can follow the adventure of Mateo and Izzie as they travel through the dream worlds in an all-new 4D movie, LEGO Dreamzz 4D Movie. Also new to the park, everyone can join the Dream Chasers on a Scavenger Hunt! Fantastical creatures have escaped from the LEGO DREAMZzz Universe and are hiding across the park! Grab this scavenger hunt from the LEGO Factory store to take on the quest to locate each creature. Plus, guests can create their own wild creature! Build your very own dream creature and bring your wildest dreams to life. Check out the video for more details! Brick-or-Treat Beginning September 16, on select days through until October 29, monsters are taking over LEGOLAND Florida with new shows, an all-new fireworks show, new experiences, tons of candy, spooktacular limited time food offerings, and never-before-seen exclusive LEGO characters! Highlights include 4D Movie: The Great Monster Chase: Laugh along in this 4D adventure filled with special effects as four tweens try to sneak their way into a monster party. Live entertainment will include V.I.M. Dance Party Hosted by Lord Vampyre: Bring your monstrous moves and ghoulish grooves to this interactive dance party, plus The UnbeLEAFable Halloween Night: Something ‘unbeLEAFable’ happens when a strange plant grows out of control. Packed with energetic singing and dancing, this musical mystery is fun for the entire family… AND features a surprise appearance from the newest monster in town – LEGO Plant Monster! The Jammin' Jacks will return this year: Get ready to rock out with the spirits of Brick or Treat as our LEGO jack-o-lantern trio comes to life to sing some of your favorite spooky kooky tunes! The dates that this years event is taking place is as follows: September 16, 23, 30 October 7 - 8, 14 - 15, 21 - 22, and 28 - 29 This AWESOME Halloween spectacular is included with general park admission & select Annual Passes so let’s get ready to MONSTER PARTY at LEGOLAND Florida! Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida There is no better time to add a little LEGO magic to your family vacation and build memories + traditions to last a lifetime. Highlights include: Visit the Holiday Village Postal Service to send your letters to LEGO Santa, Rock around the giant LEGO tree to holiday tunes, Take “elfies” with your favorite holiday LEGO Characters, And don't miss ringing in the new year with colorful bursts of LEGO bricks fireworks over Lake Eloise at an earlier, kid-friendly, celebration time. Seasonal Shows & Traditional Treats Check out our delightfully dazzling holiday shows, Santa approved of course, throughout the park all season long! Also, why not try some holly jolly themed food and drinks too? Kids New Years Eve Join in the festivities and celebrate the New Year early with rides, activities, and a whole lot of fun. Celebrate with an early fireworks display illuminating the sky and welcoming in 2024! 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. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

Welcome to fall in Orlando, one of the best times of the year to experience all the wonderful things to do, and with smaller crowds, and cooler temperatures, fall is the perfect time to visit Orlando. There is so much to enjoy this fall season in Orlando, including halloween haunts, cultural celebrations, culinary delights and fabulous fall festivals. With smaller crowds, cooler temperatures and a never ending celebration of special events, you'll fall into Orlando, and never want to leave! Halloween in Orlando Oktoberfest Events Fall Festivals and Pumpkins Patches Come Out With Pride Orlando Electric Daisy Carnival, EDC Orlando Food And Drinks Festivals FusionFest Halloween In Orlando Top of the list is Halloween! Spooky season is a big deal here in Orlando ,with the city transforming into the most spooktacular destination in the country with so much frightful fun to experience, from full on horror experiences, to family friendly spooky fun, and Halloween dress-up parties to die for! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Select Nights, August 11 - November 1, 2023 Get ready for a spooktacular celebration with plenty of tricks and treats when this year's Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party returns to Magic Kingdom on August 11, and runs through select nights to November 1, 2023. Enjoy spellbinding entertainment including shows, a parade, fireworks, Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best, and so much more. This limited-capacity, nighttime event starts at 7 pm and allows guests to experience shorter wait times on attractions, themed food and beverage and more. Walt Disney World August 11 - November 1, 2023 Festive Fall Decor Who doesn’t love a cozy-season selfie? Be sure to grab your favorite autumn attire and a pumpkin spice latte and get ready to strike a pose. From Aug. 11 to Nov. 1, Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom will be filled with pumpkins and scarecrows, and shops will be dressed with fall foliage and garlands, making it the perfect fall photo backdrop. Haunted Happenings There are so many ways to experience the fall vibe around Walt Disney World. At Disney Springs, you can listen to live music on the Waterside Stage from the Squad Ghoul each Friday through Sunday, Sept. 29 to Oct. 29. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, learn from a Disney animator how to draw a Disney villain, whether it’s Bruce from “Finding Nemo;” Kaa and Shere Khan from “The Jungle Book;” Tick-Tock from “Peter Pan;” or Scar from “The Lion King.” The villain animation line-up runs Oct. 1 to Oct. 31 and can be found at the Animation Experience at Conservation Station. Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine in Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a wickedly fun overlay this fall season that includes a chilling Halloween feast that’s frightfully delightful. Reservations for the festive experience are recommended and can be made on the Walt Disney World website! Halloween Horror Nights At Universal Orlando Resort Select Nights September 1 - November 4, 2023 Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) at Universal Orlando Resort is huge, its one of the biggest Halloween events in Florida, and features horror of all genres, from cinematic greats and crazed cult favorites to the park’s original abominations, and each year the legend grows and the experience reaches beyond your wildest nightmares. Halloween Horror Nights 32 includes 10 terrifying haunted houses, 5 sinister scare zones and live entertainment. This year's haunted houses include The Exorcist: Believer, Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count, Universal Monsters: Unmasked, Stranger Things 4, and The Last of Us. Guests can purchase a variety of tickets and vacation packages for Halloween Horror Nights 2023, including single-night tickets and event upgrades like the R.I.P. Tour, Express Pass and the daytime Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour. Howl-O-Scream At Busch Gardens Tampa Select Nights, September 8 - October 31, 2023 Tampa’s premier Halloween event returns earlier than ever with new frights & scares taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows and more. Until October 31st, unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level and once you’re in there’s nothing to fear but everything. Haunted houses include fan favorite, The Residence: Home For The Holidays, plus Ms. Stranglewood is back for more haunts this spooky season, year, and has something sinister waiting behind every corner. plus, new this year is D.H. Baggums, Circus of Fear. This year's scare zone's include the all new Big Ed's Demolition Derby, which features a rather sinister Big Ed, and Sin City Zombies, another brand new scare zone for 2023. Howl-O-Scream At SeaWorld Orlando Select Nights, September 8 - October 31, 2023 Howl-O-Scream resurfaces at SeaWorld Orlando and this year you will have nowhere to hide. Howl-O-Scream has washed ashore, and this time, the fear is everywhere. Returning for its third year on September 8, Howl-O-Scream runs select nights through October 31, and this year Howl-O-Scream isn’t just back at SeaWorld. It’s bigger and better than ever with ALL-NEW terrors. Evade angry haunts as they rampage through scare zones. Seek shelter indoors, only to find you’ve entered a house of horrors. Deepen the thrill with nighttime coaster rides. Quench your thirst for fear at a fiendishly interactive bar. And feel the monstrous electricity of three live shows. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular Select Days, September 9 - October 31, 2023 At Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular, from September 9 to October 31, guests will step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training! Every Saturday and Sunday, plus Monday Oct. 30 & Tuesday Oct. 31, this event takes place during regular park hours, and is included with park entry. Busch Gardens’ Spooktacular will be casting magical spells, from 12 – 4 pm at the Festival Walkway. A costume parade, story time and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience. SeaWorld Halloween Spooktacular Select Dates, September 16 - October 31, 2023 SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular is back with fun surprises, candy, costumes and more! Kids love trick-or-treating (with purchase of reusable bag) during this daytime event as they explore the decorated trail and meet colorful characters. This year be sure to check out all their immersive family Spooktacular Festivities and plan your visit this fall. SeaWorld Spooktacular runs select days, Sept. 16 – Oct. 31, and is included with park admission. LEGOLAND Florida Brick-or-Treat Select Nights, September 16 - October 29, 2023 Families will be screaming in excitement at LEGOLAND Florida Brick-or-Treat this year, with more candy, more LEGO characters and more spell-binding surprises than ever before. This Halloween spectacular will bewitch families with so many amazing experiences including V.I.M. Dance Party Hosted by Lord Vampyre, the new show The UnbeLEAFable Halloween Night and NEW 4D Movie: The Great Monster Chase. Enjoy live shows, costume contests, meet and greets, spooky LEGO decorations and Monster mischief around every corner – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes Scream-A-Geddon September 8 - November 4, 2023 If you go down to the woods this spooky season your in for a horrific surprise... Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City is BACK! Spread across 20 acres in a remote corner of Pasco County, the scariest of horror parks, Scream-A-Geddon Horror Park has five haunted houses, a zombie paintball fight and monsters who can and will grab you! Scream-A-Geddon is only a miserable 1 hour, 30 minute drive from Orlando, and it is so worth it, if you dare.... This years event features the all new haunted house, Breach. Enter if you dare, but you may never come out, plus returning this year is fan favorite's, Rage 3D, Floodwater Bayou, Ravenhill Asylum, Demon's Revenge, and of course it wouldn't be Scream-A-Geddon without Zombie Paintball Assault!! The event also features Monster Midwaywith food, beer, and games, and Bono's Beer Garden. Haunting Nights at Leu Gardens Select Nights from September 26 - October 31 This Halloween season once darkness arrives, there is a brand new nighttime experience to enjoy here in Orlando, as Creative City Arts presents Haunting Nights, an artful, exciting Halloween experience that will take place in the forests of Leu Gardens. Guests to this new immersive Haunting Nights experience will be welcomed by a 10’ tall jack-o-lantern, before making your way past the bridge troll and into the forest of eyes. You will then walk through a garden of sunflowers, journey through a neon-light maze, climb up a giant hay-pyramid, meet La Catrina in our Dia de Muertos world, and so much more. Creative City Arts promises some jump-scares, but say it won't be too scary with the event recommended for guests 13 and up. Get tickets here. Happy Frights Select dates between September 29 and October 31, 2023 Gather the entire family for a fun, family-friendly Halloween adventure throughout Orlando’s Leu Gardens featuring exciting immersive worlds, live characters, food and trick-or-treating. Guests will meet a dancing bridge-troll, walk through a garden of sunflowers, explore a neon-light maze, climb up a giant hay-pyramid, celebrate Dia de Muertos and so much more – all while visiting nine trick-or-treat stations along the way. Get tickets here. Sir Henry Haunted Trail Select Nights, September 29 - November 4, 2023 The one of a kind outdoor haunted attraction, Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail is celebrating 10 seasons of horror this spooky season, guests can expect an all new attraction - a haunted hayride, as well as brand new themes for every trail including the return of many fan favorite characters! This years event will run select nights from September 29 - November 4, and will feature 3 haunted experiences, Legends Of Halloween haunted hayride, 2 escape rooms, plus laser tag, and axe throwing. The three new trail for this years event are Tales Of The Dead, Wicked Waters and Moonlight Massacre. Sir Henry Haunted Trail is a horrific one hour drive from Orando in your doom buggy. Manor of Madness October 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, 2023 Manor of Madness is Leesburg’s premiere haunted attraction. A walk through haunted attraction that takes place inside the Melon Patch theatre on select nights in October. The "maze" is built on the actual stage of the theatre and goes all throughout the building! The Haunted Shrine October 20 - October 29, 2023 Welcome to the Haunted Shrine in Apokka, The Bahia Shriner’s Harvest Festival and Country Faire! This year expect heaps o’ fun this year with ther first ever indoor corn maze! And yes, it’s VERY difficult to grow corn indoors- it’s takes all sorts o’ special lightin’ and lots uh guvernmen’ officials runnin’ round chasin’ little green folks like they was leprechauns or somethin’! But don’t worry, a little Round Up took care a’ that problem few days back! Face The Fear House October 21, 22, 28, 29, 2023 Face The Fear is a yearly fear house that takes place this year for 4 nights during the Halloween season in Winter Springs. The Haunted Road Various Dates In October The Haunted Road is a terrifyingly horrific must do before it's too late this Halloween week. The Haunted Road is a drive through scare attraction, and it's only a spooky 30 minute drive from Orlando. Start with the haunted drive along Lake Pickett Road in Orlando, in the same location as Corn Maze Orlando and Painted Oaks Academy, where flesh-craving ghosts are seeking revenge upon foolish mortals. You will then encounter the 30 minute route of The Haunted Road, stopping at the murder sites of infamous serial killers. A Petrified Forest Various Dates In October One of the best spooky season scare experiences in Central Florida is a horrifying journey into A Petrified Forest! This terrifying independent outdoor scare trail which is located in the Altamonte Springs area of Orlando is legendary around these parts. A Petrified Forest is a home grown community attraction, offering three intensely horrifying scare trails set in a genuinely spooky forest location covering around 2 acres. The trails are long, with uniquely themed rooms and awesome scares around every turn. The annual Halloween event continues to grow ever year, and now offer a whole night out with great music, food concessions, local art vendors, laser tag, backstage tours, and so much more. Gaylord Palms Goblins & Giggles Weekends September 9 - October 29, 2023 Bewitching thrills, chills and laughter will once again fill fall weekends as guests are treated to family-friendly Halloween fun beginning Sept. 9, 2023, when Gaylord Palms Resort kicks off its annual Goblins & Giggles Weekends celebration. The much loved event which runs through Oct. 29, will feature live shows, interactive events, dance and costume parties, character experiences, spooky animal encounters, a themed scavenger hunt and escape room, and plenty of sweet treats. Plus this year, Gaylord Palms Resort is offering two “Fall Into Family Fun” hotel packages with features like free resort credit, premium guest room views, and tickets to popular Goblins & Giggles Weekends events. Nosf3ratu at The Ren Theater September 15 - November 5, 2023 Nosferatu is returning to Orlando for year 3! Renaissance Theatre Company have revealed that the re-re-vamped adult horror experience Nosferatu is back following a sold out run in 2022. This years experience has been totally re-vamped, so returning guests will join new patrons to experience it all for the first time. Every inch of the Ren's 15,468 square foot warehouse in Downtown Orlando will be converted into an exciting maze of elaborately designed shadowy scenes, with the audience moves from room to room, encountering performers behind every secret door. The great thing about this experience is that every guest has a unique experience, with the cast of 32 vampires leading the audience into hidden corners of the building, where they play out scary, and sexy scenarios during the 90-minute experience. One the experience is over, new this year is VBar, the sexy nightclub where thirsty vampires meet their prey opens late for a completely different experience. Sexy vampires, live entertainment, and bloody good cocktails. See the show, stay for the party. Nosferatu is for adults 18+ Strong sexuality including nudity. Sadism, blood, gore, and violent themes. Expect haze and fog, strobing and moving lights, complete darkness. Loud sounds and music throughout. Audience will move from space to space through dark corridors on foot. Check out rentheatre.com for details. Screamin' Green Hauntoween at Crayola Experience September 23 - October 31, 2023 Screamin' Green Hauntoween is back and more colorful than ever! Join Crayola Experience Orlando on a quest to discover rare, Halloween colors and meet monster-ific characters as you go! To find them all, you’ll journey into an ancient Pharaoh’s tomb, creep through a spooktacular forest and more all while creating WITCHtacular crafts! This event is CHALK-full of spooky happenings: a themed scavenger hunt, spook-tastic crafts, character photo ops, and more! ALL included with admission. Plus every weekend enjoy trick-or-treating and a DJ dance party. FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival October 13 - 15, 2023 3 DAYS OF FRIGHTS, FUN, and FILMMAKERS! Welcome to the FREAK SHOW Horror Film Fest, the premier horror-genre film festival in Orlando, Florida. Meet Cast and Crew from Screening Films, See Exclusive Independent Horror Films, Walk the Red Carpet, Festival Parties, Movies, Movies, and more Movies! Lake Nona Murder Mystery Dinner October 13, 2023 Want to solve a murder? On this Friday the 13th, join Lake Nona at Dockside Lake Nona for a Murder Mystery Dinner, a fully immersive experience with costumes, clues, and crime. Dinner and a welcome drink will be provided to kick off the mysterious night ahead. An Enchanted Evening of Mystic Arts Friday 13, 2023 Join a celebration of the spiritual, unexplained, and the impossible! This is a FREE Event! There will be spiritualism, mysticism, and New Age arts.including fortune telling, tarot reading, EMP tracking, orb/spiritual photography, aura reading, New Age crystals, jewelry, and art, and related topics. Get more info here. The event will be hosted in conjunction with the City of Casselberry's Friday Food Truck Event. Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts And Goblins October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29, 2023 Gators, Ghosts and Goblins at Gatorland returns with lots of spooky activities! Swamp Ghost’s Monster Museum returns with an all-new exhibit! Encounter specters, goblins, and more as you learn about the origins of everyone’s favorite haunted holiday! Explore new haunt-zones like The Creepy Creature Carnival, where famous monsters moonlight as midway attractions! and the Frightful Frontier, an old west town populated with cursed cowboys! Plus, seek out hidden beasties like the Florida Skunk Ape, Moth Man, Chupacabra, and more! All this plus interactive characters, animal meet-and-greets, a Children’s Halloween Costume Parade with treat bags for all kids who participate! There’s also fun shows, a variety of specialtyvendors, games, candy giveaways, and more! Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins is included with your regular park admission on October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29, 10am to 5pm. Winter Park Halloween on the Ave October 20, 2023 Halloween on the Ave will be an enchanting evening for dressing up and having fun. A Nightmare on Church Street has moved to a new upscale location for its annual Halloween event. Enjoy an outrageously entertaining evening featuring all-inclusive food and beverage tastings from some of Orlando's top eateries, bars, and breweries. Dance to local DJs and a rock band performing live music! Come dressed in your best costumes to enter the Halloween costume contest for cash prizes. Get awesome pictures at photo booths and themed areas. Spooky Empire October 27 - 29, 2023 Spooky Empire has been delivering the best sights, sounds and screams to Halloween lovers since 2003. They feature an enormous room of vendors, a film and tattoo festival, music, celebrity speakers, and more to satiate even the most diehard aficionados of the spooky season! Lake Nona Graveyard Smash October 28, 2023 Come to the Lake Nona Graveyard Smash, as it’s time to celebrate Halloween with spooky entertainment, trick or treat stations, inflatable courses, face paint, and thrilling music. This event will definitely give you chills! Halloween Oktoberfest October 28, 2023 Celebrate Oktoberfest AND Halloween at the German American Society of Central Florida for the Best and Most Authentic Oktoberfest around! Enjoy fabulous German food and plenty of beer on tap from German breweries. Live musical entertainment and dancing all day long, in the Biergarten and Clubhouse. Kids play area with games and bounce house! Downtown Avalon Park Spooktacular October 28, 2023 For Halloween, Downtown Avalon Park pulls out all the stops and throw a family-friendly Spooktacular trick or treat in the heart of the community. Halloween At Old Town October 31, 2023 Grab your little ghoul or goblin for a night of Halloween fun at Old Town! Celebrate the spookiest of holidays with free trick-or-treating, entertainment and The Thriller Dancers. Free trick-or-treating is from 5 - 7 pm with candy stations throughout Old Town. Halloween at Cranes Roost Park October 31, 2023 Halloween at Cranes Roost Park is a community-oriented, door-to-door trick-or-treat alternative for kids brought to you by the City of Altamonte Springs. The event features local businesses sponsoring booths to hand out candy and trinkets to an estimated 15,000 kids. The event kicks off with trick-or-treating around Cranes Roost Lake and live entertainment, followed by costume contests, games and surprises throughout the event. Oktoberfest Events in Orlando Next up is the Oktoberfest celebrations happening throughout Central Florida. We have brought together here all the Oktoberfest event happening this fall, Prost! Oktoberfest at Krush Brau Park Friday, September 15 - October 22, 2023 Get ready for an authentic Oktoberfest experience right here in Kissimmee, at Krush Brau Park! While the traditional Oktoberfest festivities are held in Munich, Germany, you don't have to travel across the Atlantic to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and Bavarian charm. Join Krush Brau Park and indulge in all the beer, food, music, and fun that make Oktoberfest a beloved global celebration. At Krush Brau Park, the've recreated the spirit of Munich's Oktoberfest to bring you an unforgettable experience. Adorned with traditional Bavarian décor and vibrant Oktoberfest colors, sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration. The aroma of freshly baked pretzels, bratwurst, and sauerkraut fills the air, transporting you straight to the heart of Bavaria. Deviant Wolfe Oktoberfest 2023 Saturday, September 23, 2023 Come out to Deviant Wolfe Brewing for the second annual Oktoberfest. Indulge in German-style beers and merriment as they celebrate the Autumn season. Come dressed to impress in your dirndl or lederhosen, pick up your mugs, and celebrate! Enjoy live music by Jackson Parodi from 1-4 pm, Oktoberfest games, and best of all, German-style beers brewed in house especially for the event. Oviedo Oktoberfest 2023 Thursday, September 28 - Saturday, September 30, 2023 Oviedo Oktoberfest is back, and better than ever! At The Oviedo Amphitheatre in Center Lake Park. This three day festival event features authentic German beer, food, live music and entertainment, contests and more! Lake Nona Oktoberfest Saturday, September 30, 2023 Oktoberfest is returning on Saturday, September 30 at Lake Nona Town Center with live music with King Guys Band, plus German food from Park Pizza, German themed entertainment, photo-ops, games, and the annual Stein Hoisting competition! This event is free and open to the public, no ticket needed! German American Society of Central Florida Oktoberfest Saturday, October 7, 2023 Celebrate Oktoberfest at the German American Society of Central Florida for the Best and Most Authentic Oktoberfest around! Join in the Biergarten from Noon to 10:00 pm for fabulous German food and plenty of beer on tap from German breweries. Live musical entertainment and dancing all day long, both outside in the Biergarten and inside the Clubhouse. Kids play area with games and bounce house! Traditional Flag Parade at 5:30 pm. Avalon Park Oktoberfest Friday, October 13 - Saturday, October 14, 2023 Avalon Park is hosting it's annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 14, 2023, with a Beer Garden Preview Friday, October 13! There will be a Beer Garden, Live Music, Food Vendors, Alpine Dancing and plenty of good times to go around! Swantoberfest at Swan Brewing Friday, October 13 - Sunday, October 15, 2023 Get ready to raise your steins and celebrate Swantoberfest at Swan Brewing for a weekend filled with fun activities, delicious food, great music, and a true celebration of Oktoberfest. Indulge in traditional German cuisine from a lineup of incredible food trucks, available during normal operating hours. Savor the flavors that will transport you straight to Munich! Enjoy live music as you immerse yourself in the Oktoberfest spirit, test your strength and endurance in the stein hoisting competition. Pls, don't miss the limited edition Swantoberfest glassware, exclusively available during the event. Raise your glass and toast to the spirit of Oktoberfest with the fine brews! Come dressed in your best Bavarian attire for a chance to win the best Oktoberfest dressed competition. OKTOBERFEST at NYBP Orlando Sunday, October 15, 2023 Transport yourself to Germany and join in on the Celebration of the Year at New York Beer Project’s Oktoberfest! Travel between the decked out Munich Biergarten, German Beer Hall and Bavarian Garden as you taste TEN 5 oz. tasters of beer of German and Craft Beer including faves like Award-Winning Prost! Oktoberfest Lager, Drunkin Punkin, Augustiner Lager and Frankenstiener Black IPA…just to name a few! Test your skills and have the chance to win prizes at the annual NYBP Stein Hoisting competition, German costume contest, and the NYBP Weiner Toss! Plus, experience Oktoberfest just like you would in Munich as you listen to the fun, authentic German Music from a live Oktoberfest band. Inverness Brewers Union Oktoberfest 2023 Saturday, October 21, 2023 Enjoy Oktoberfest in downtown Inverness. Clint Byron Band will be playing Live as you enjoy an unlimited sampling of the best craft beers, ciders & wines. Food & Cigar trailer onsite. Halloween Oktoberfest! Saturday, October 28, 2023 Ccelebrate Oktoberfest AND Halloween at the German American Society of Central Florida for the Best and Most Authentic Oktoberfest around! Enjoy fabulous German food and plenty of beer on tap from German breweries. Live musical entertainment and dancing all day long, both outside in the Biergarten and inside the Clubhouse. Kids play area with games and bounce house, and the traditional Flag Parade. Fall Festivals and Pumpkins Patches With cooler temperatures and a wealth of special events, fall is an amazing time to visit and be in Orlando, and of course a huge part of fall is fall festivals, and of course, pumpkin patches! Read of for just a few of the fall festivals and more happening in Orlando this fall. Lake Nona Town Harvest October 14, 2023 Lake Nona’s Town Harvest kicks off the fall season with a pumpkin patch and decorating station, live country music, and a tractor photo-op. Not to mention, come grab some fall themed treats and enjoy one of our specialty drinks! Long & Scott Farms 26216 County Rd 448A, Mt Dora, FL 32757 It's not only pumpkins here at Long & Scott Farms, you can easily get lost in a 6.5 acre corn maze! Jump on a huge jumping pillow, slide down a 60ft super slide, or play on a giant castle-like playground. You can take a hay ride, check out their fresh produce market, food vendors, and cafe. Cowart Ranch and Farms 8185 W Highway 100 Bunnell, FL 32110 Enjoy the corn maze, petting zoo, games, bounce houses, hayrides and a great pumpkin patch at Cowart Ranch and Farms. It's not just pumpkins you can pick here, you can pick sunflowers and blueberries too. Santa’s Tree Farm 5317 Huff Road, Eustis, FL 32736 Pumpkins at Santa’s Tree Farm are fresh picked, and then displayed in a shaded lot to help preserve their freshness. There is so much to enjoy here including barnyard animals, horse and pony rides, hay rides, bounce pillow, giant slide, barrel train rides, mazes and play areas. Showcase of Citrus Pumpkin Ponderosa 5010 US-27, Clermont, FL 34714 Join Showcase of Citrus Pumpkin Ponderosa to pick your perfect pumpkin, take great family photos, and enjoy various activities! Burn off steam on the playground, take a hayride or even a monster truck ride. Hagerty Farms Pumpkin Patch 3225 Lockwood Blvd. Oviedo, FL 32765 Here at Hagerty Farms Pumpkin Patch you'll discover pumpkins, gourds, more pumpkins and all pumpkins, just pumpkins of all kinds! This is a great spot for seasonal family pictures. Southern Hill Farms Festival 16651 Schofield Rd, Clermont, FL 34714, Join the family farm for their annual Fall Festival at Southern Hill Farms Festival! What fall adventure would be complete without mouth-watering apple cider donuts, jolly Jumbo Jack carving pumpkins and s’mores around the fire pits? Come Out With Pride Orlando October 21, 2023 Now in its 19th year, Orlando’s Come Out With Pride is a celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and support, taking place at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. This nonprofit celebration fosters a sense of community, encourages LGBTQ+ citizens to live openly and with pride, and educates the general public. Everyone from Central Florida and beyond is invited to come together and make a positive impact on Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community. Electric Daisy Carnival, EDC Orlando November 10 - 12. 2023 Get ready for the weekend of your life as EDC Orlando is returning in a big way in 2023! Since first arriving on the scene in Florida, EDC Orlando has become one of the biggest and best festivals in the Sunshine State. Huge name headliners at this year EDC Orlando includes electronic music superstars Zedd, Armin van Buuren, Kaskade, Alison Wonderland, The Chainsmokers, Seven Lions, JOYRYDE, Deathpact, Dom Dolla and Excision and more! They'll throw down across four stages: kineticFIELD, circuitGROUNDS, neonGARDEN and stereoBLOOM. Elsewhere on the lineup is Afroki, the collaborative moniker of Afrojack and Steve Aoki. Meanwhile, house music fans can look forward to a huge b2b from Malaa and Wax Motif, who will perform a special sunset set. The same goes for both Alesso and deadmau5. Check out the full EDC Orlando 2023 lineup below and purchase tickets here. Orlando Fall Signature Food And Drinks Festivals For culinary connoisseurs, Orlando is the place to be this fall, with amazing signature foodie events including Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining, EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, and A Taste Of Baldwin Park. Read on for all the yummy details of this years fall signature food and drinks festivals. Visit Orlando's Magical Dining August 18 - October 1, 2023 For many in Orlando, Magical Dining is the most wonderful time of the year, and this years event returns with over 115 restaurants and new for 2023, 2 pricing tiers. For the past 17 years, locals and visitors alike have enjoyed Visit Orlando's multi-month Magical Dining, a popular event that celebrated Orlando eateries. Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining returns this year from August 18 through October 1, with more than 115 of Orlando’s best restaurants serving up three-course prix-fixe menus for either $40 or $60, as part of a new tiered menu system. Magical Dining is a great way to get out and explore Orlando's vibrant dining scene and discover new favorites for a really great price. This year’s roster brings 16 new restaurants to the dining program, as well as seven restaurants recognized by the MICHELIN Guide. Visit Orlando’s Magical Nights is also back this year, encouraging diners to turn their night on the town into an affordable, end-of-the-summer Orlando staycation with special savings and offers. You can also upgrade from dinner and a movie to a gourmet staycation courtesy of Visit Orlando’s Magical Nights, featuring offers from select Orlando hotels and resorts. What’s more, $1 from every $40 meal and $2 from every $60 meal served during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining will provide support for mental health counseling and trauma recovery at The Lifeboat Project, plus six other local nonprofits. Visit OrlandoMagicalDining.com for a complete list of participating eateries and menus, and to make OpenTable reservations to secure your preferred dates and times. EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Now - November, 18, 2023 At Walt Disney World you can indulge in a global epicurean celebration as the fan-favorite foodie event The 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival returns with delectable delights around every corner! It’s the tastiest time of the year as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE kicks off at Walt Disney World Resort, and continues through Nov. 18, 2023. That’s 114 days of tempting tastes, live entertainment and festival fun for all ages. Guests can set out on an international expedition of flavor visiting Global Marketplaces that showcase culinary delights from every corner of the world. Whimsical scavenger hunts and food strolls encourage guests to stop and savor every detail. And each evening, musical acts from yesterday and today take to the stage during the Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare. Special packages are available that include dinner in one of the park’s world-class restaurants and guaranteed seating for a concert performance. 5th Annual 104.1 "Best of Challenge" Sandwich Edition September 30, 2023 Promenade at Sunset Walk presents the 5th Annual “Best of Challenge": Sandwich Edition showcasing the Best Sandwiches from many of the Promenade's Amazing Venues. Plus, Margaritaville Resort Orlando. The cast of "The Jim Colbert Show" from Real Radio 104.1, return as our Celebrity Event Hosts. VIP Tasting Admission: $20 - VIP Participant / Judges will sample Sandwiches from each competing venue and Vote for their favorite 3. Local Foodie Influencers and Media will Vote for the "Critics Choice" Award along with the "Listeners Challenge" Competition Judged by the Jim Colbert Cast! Spectators are FREE - All guests are invited to enjoy Live Entertainment, and all Event Activities hosted by "The Jim Colbert Show" and DJ Scotty B. Plus following the "Best of Challenge" stay & enjoy "Switch" Live, DJ Rick GZ, The Promenade Street Market & Show Car Saturday Nights! Participating Venues include: BurgerFi Cowboy Chicken Estefan Kitchen Orlando Euphoria Fish House Ford's Garage Lizzie's Memphis Style BBQ Rock & Brews The Wharf Taste of College Park 2023 October 12, 2023 Nineteen restaurants and suppliers have been selected for Taste of College Park 2023 to be held at the Historic Dubsdread Ballroom and Courtyard on Thursday, October 12, 2023, from 6 to 9 pm. Once again, Taste of College Park will be, “College Park’s Best Night Out!” Join the Rotary Club of College Park and enjoy the best restaurants in College Park and Ivanhoe Park, drink some amazing craft beer from Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company and sip on some carefully curated wines by Digress! Even more, a silent auction featuring everything from vacation packages to sports collectibles! Tickets include all food and beverages! Taste of Space: Fall Bites! October 2 - November 5, 2023 Taste of Space: Fall Bites! returns to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex together with the special after-hours events, Marstini Shake-Off and the Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef Edition. This fall, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will once again take guests on a flavorful journey through the cosmos during Taste of Space: Fall Bites!. Taste of Space: Fall Bites! at Kennedy Space Center will take place at several eateries throughout the visitor complex. Beginning October 2, guests can enjoy a variety of seasonal dishes* available until November 5. Taste of Space: Marstini Shake-Off October 6, 2023 Quickly becoming a fan favorite event, the 3rd annual Taste of Space: Marstini Shake-Off will take place October 6 from 6:30 – 9 p.m. inside Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex. Recommended for guests 21+, Marstini Shake-Off promises guests a showcase of flavors for the season at each food station. Participants will mix and mingle with veteran NASA astronauts –Scott Altman, Chris Ferguson and Anthony "Tony" Antonelli – while enjoying elevated items at food stations throughout Gateway. Then, they will cheer on local bartenders from Playalinda Brewing Company: Brix Project, Third Culture Kitchen, The Space Bar and Jack & Harry’s as they create their version of the perfect Marstini. Guests can sample drinks and then vote for their favorites. Tickets for the Taste of Space Marstini Shake-Off are $159 per person + tax. Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef Edition, November 3, 2023 On November 3, the stars realign during Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef Edition, a celebrity-studded chef demo and dinner event. In its second year, the event will feature acclaimed chefs Duff Goldman and Esther Choi, who will be serving up something special. Plus, chef Jon Ashton will return as the host of the evening. The event will feature chefs Goldman and Choi demonstrating their expert cooking techniques alongside veteran astronauts Anna Fisher, Bruce Melnick and Scott Altman. Guests will have the chance to enjoy exclusive menu items as they hear personal stories about the experience of eating in space, and favorite foods the astronauts enjoyed during their flights. The chance to take photos with the astronauts following the demo will only be bested by a delectable selection of desserts, including a specialty cake designed by Duff himself. Tickets for this event are $175 per person + tax. Purchase tickets at www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/tickets#SpecialEvents. Orlando Jerk Festival October 22, 2023 Music, food and more at Apopka Amphitheater. 22nd Annual Taste of Thornton Park November 2, 2023 22nd Annual Food & Libations tasting event. Enjoy a spectacular evening under the stars with tastings from local restaurants. Located in the street (Hyer and Washington St.) at the beautiful 4 Rivers Fountain. Music will be presented by our local DJ. Visit www.thorntonpark.org for more event information. Rain or Shine...at the Fountain in Thornton Park. Tickets: $40 advance, $50 day of at door. Taste of Baldwin Park Food & Wine November 2, 2023 Your invited - Join Taste of Baldwin Park, Orlando's Best Foodie Event! This event offers something for everyone! Foodies & Wine lovers bring your friends! Sip & savor your way through Taste's 45+ vendors while enjoying great music from "The Buzzcatz" 9-piece party band on stage lakeside! Casselberry Food & Wine Festival November 6, 2023 Head to the 13th annual 2023 Casselberry Chamber Food & Wine Festival for a fun night of food, drinks, and entertainment! Your ticket includes samples from over 20 + local restaurants, breweries, wineries, and so much more! DJ Johnny Velvet will be there for your musical entertainment and requests. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic November 10 - November 11, 2023 The much loved Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic will return for its 14th year this November, treating guests to a street party festival with unlimited food and beverage tastings at diverse food stations, featuring unlimited culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants, and wine, beer and other sips from around the world. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic takes place this year on Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11, 2023, and tickets are on sale now! Set outside among the scenic ambiance of the resort, the event features live music, over 20+ food stations, 100+ beverage selections and immersive themed areas, such as the beer garden and the bubble lounge. Stroll the causeway where you will be tempted with a diverse selection of delectable delights prepared by the resorts award-winning chefs. The talented chefs will be offering unrivaled cuisine to please every palate, and you can meet the star line-up of award-winning chefs including Todd English, a celebrity chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author. Tickets to this special event are available now, and guests purchasing event tickets can also book a room at a special rate. Tickets are on sale now for $185 per person. The price of the ticket include's ALL the food and beverages at the festival’s food booths, although seminars and additional tastings and events do cost an additional fee. Visit www.FoodandWineClassic.com for more information and to purchase tickets to the event. FusionFest November 25 - 26, 2023 Taking place over Thanksgiving weekend, FusionFest is one of our most unique cultural celebrations, presenting a microcosm of the whole world in the heart of downtown Orlando. In addition to a cornucopia of dishes from around the globe, it features experiences and contests celebrating music, dance, visual arts, spoken word, games and interactive activities, all designed to honor each person’s heritage while exploring how we influence each other and create our own unique identity. Representing more than 110 different global cultures, FusionFest is free to attend, with food, beverages and merchandise available for purchase. It’s held at the open-air Seneff Arts Plaza at downtown’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 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. Planning your next vacation? Check out Top Villas, offering the best vacation homes, in the best resorts. Enquire or book online. Top Villas guarantee the very best rates on all luxury villas, condos & townhouses. Please Note: We are supported by our advertisers via digital ads, sponsored content, and affiliate links. Articles may be paid for, or contain affiliate links where we could earn money if you purchase products or services via a link our site

Great news as the “Alligator Capital of the World” Gatorland has announced a series of special offers for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, giving awesome savings on their their annual passes, plus the park’s popular Screamin’ Gator Zipline! Gatorland the “Alligator Capital of the World,” has announced some awesome special offers for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, giving big savings on annual passes and the park’s popular Screamin’ Gator Zipline. From 3 pm on Thanksgiving, November 23, through midnight on November 26, Adult Annual Passes will be $43.99 plus tax, which is a savings of 12% off the regular adult price of $49.99 plus tax and the Children’s Annual Pass, ages 3-12, will be just $31.99 plus tax, which is an 8% savings off the regular price of $34.99 plus tax. The Black Friday Annual Pass Deal can be purchased online or at the admission gate and must be retrieved within 90 days of purchase. Online buyers must bring their confirmation to Gatorland admissions to redeem their Annual Pass. In addition to the Black Friday Deal, a Cyber Monday Deal on the Screamin’ Gator Zipline will begin a 11:59 p.m. on November 26 and will run until midnight on November 28, featuring zipline tickets for only $39.99, which is a savings of 43% off the regular price of $69.99 plus tax. Must be purchased online. Gatorland combines Old Florida charm with exciting experiences, exhibits, and entertainment. Originally opened as a roadside attraction in 1949, the park will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2024. Today the iconic park provides affordably priced family fun featuring thousands of alligators and crocodiles, breeding marsh with observation tower, popular capybara encounter, free-flight aviary, nature walk, petting zoo, educational wildlife programs, award-winning gift shop, Florida’s best train ride, Gator Gully Splash Park, on-site restaurant, and one-of-a-kind shows including Gator Jumparoo, Alligators-Legends of the Swamp, and Up-close Encounters. Popular adventure experiences inside the park include the Screamin’ Gator Zipline, Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure, and the brand-new Croc Rock Three-In-One Adventure. The 110-acre award winning theme park has been voted by Orlando Weekly readers the Best Attraction That’s Not a Theme Park every year for the past 8 years since 2016, Best Wildlife Preserve 2023 by Orlando Style Magazine, and Best Hidden Gem 2023 by Watermark Magazine. In addition, the Screamin’ Gator Zipline experience has been voted “Best Zipline in the USA” by AOL Travel and “Best Zipline or Ropes Course in Orlando” by Orlando Weekly readers every year since 2019. For more Gatorland info., visit us online at www.gatorland.com or call 800-393-JAWS. 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!

JUST LAUNCHED! Black Friday deals are happening now at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex! Don't miss this galactic deal!! Get ready for an out of this world, special offer on the Space Coast from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Kennedy Space Center is offering a special 13-Month Atlantis Annual Pass good from date of purchase though December 31, 2024. The offer will be available for one week only, through Black Friday, November 24, 2023. As part of the Black Friday deal, guests will receive a $20 discount on the 13-month Atlantis Annual Pass with adult tickets priced at $129 plus tax while children’s passes (for children ages 3-11) can be purchased for $100 plus tax. More potential savings are available with each use as annual passholders receive 10 percent off admission for up to six guests per visit, free parking, 10 percent off retail and food and beverage purchases, 10 percent off Astronaut Training Experience and Camp KSC, as well as exclusive access to special passholder events. This special Black Friday offer will only be available through the Call Center and online. Cyber MONDAY Deal Available for one day only on Monday, November 27, 2023, the Cyber Monday Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) offer includes one free adult or child admission with the purchase of one adult admission at $75 plus tax. Tickets purchased must be used by December 31, 2023. This Cyber Monday offer will be available online and through the Call Center. Click here to learn more about Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex or purchase tickets. 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.

Fireworks testing is due to take place at EPCOT from November 27 - December 2, with guests in surrounding resorts given advance warning of possible overnight noise. As we get ever closer to the new nighttime spectacular, Luminous: The Symphony of Us, launching on December 5 at EPCOT, Walt Disney World has announced that fireworks testing is taking place for the new show in the days ahead. Disney will be testing pyrotechnics and special effects overnight, with resort guests staying at any of the hotels located in the EPCOT Resort Area warned that pyrotechnics and other special effects will be tested nightly at EPCOT from November 27 through December 2, with the exception of Friday, December 1. These tests are scheduled to begin around 10:30 p.m. (later on Thursday due to Extended Evening Hours) and end by 1 a.m. The expected noise level of this fireworks display is expected to be significant. Affected resorts include: Walt Disney World Swan Walt Disney World Dolphin Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Disney's Yacht Club Resort Disney's Beach Club Resort Disney Boardwalk Resort Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter Disney's Old Key West Resort The all-new nighttime spectacular will debut at EPCOT on December 5, 2023 at 9.30 pm. The show has recently been added to the Walt Disney World webpage, with Disney descoping the show as follows: A Sparkling Spectacle Delight in a dramatic show designed to bring us all together. Marvel at a dazzling pageant of fireworks, fountains, music and lights set to an original composition. New music, along with evocative selections from the Disney songbook, come together to remind us that we are more alike than we are different. 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.

Disney’s winter-themed water wonderland, Blizzard Beach Water Park is to remain closed on Thanksgiving, due to expected low temperatures. Walt Disney World have announced that everyone’s favorite winter-themed warm water wonderland, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park will remain closed on Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 23, due to forecast low temperatures. The park will be closed for the entire day, on what will be one of Walt Disney World's busiest days of the year, with forecasters predicting a daytime high of only 71 and a very chilly low of 59, with cloudy and slightly windy conditions. The park is currently scheduled to reopen on Friday, November 24, but this is subject to change depending on the weather, with Friday currently forecast to have a high of 70 and a low of 60 with some showers expected. Wrap up warm Orlando!! 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 every popular after hours event, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom is proving as popular than ever with guests this year, with only a handful of dates remaining available. The highlight event of the holiday season at Walt Disney World, is the after hours event, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party which is taking place now through December 22, 2023 at Magic Kingdom Park. As we move ever closer to December, only a handful of dates remain available, with most dates now sold out for this years party. , Ticket prices for the remaining nights range from $159 to $199 for adults. Here is the full list of event dates: Thursday, November 9 - SOLD OUT Friday, November 10 - SOLD OUT Monday, November 13 - SOLD OUT Tuesday, November 14 - SOLD OUT Thursday, November 16 - SOLD OUT Friday, November 17 - SOLD OUT Sunday, November 19 - SOD OUT Tuesday, November 21 - SOLD OUT Wednesday, November 22 - SOLD OUT Sunday, November 26 - SOLD OUT Tuesday, November 28 - AVAILABLE Thursday, November 30 - SOLD OUT Friday, December 1 - SOLD OUT Sunday, December 3 - SOLD OUT Tuesday, December 5 - SOLD OUT Thursday, December 7 - SOLD OUT Friday, December 8 - SOLD OUT Sunday, December 10 - SOLD OUT Tuesday, December 12 - AVAILABLE Thursday, December 14 - AVAILABLE Friday, December 15 - SOLD OUT Sunday, December 17 - SOLD OUT Tuesday, December 19 - SOLD OUT Thursday, December 21 - SOLD OUT Friday, December 22 - SOLD OUT This year, festive favorites including 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.” are all back at this years event. Guests can also enjoy some of their favorite classic and thrill attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, which is using a virtual queue during the event. 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.

Country music star Thomas Rhett will take the stage at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa on Friday, December 8 at 8 pm. Surprise! Country music star Thomas Rhett has added a date at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa on Friday, December 8 at 8 pm! Tickets go on sale this Wednesday, November 22 at 10 am. Check here for details. The son of veteran country hitmaker Rhett Akins, Thomas Rhett has built a superstar career of his own since 2012, becoming a household name with his Grammy-nominated ballad "Die a Happy Man." He has toured with Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, Lady Antebellum and Brett Eldredge, and has headlined his own arena tours. Before his record deal, Rhett had launched a songwriting career. In addition to co-writing many of his own songs, he has been a writer for performers such as Jason Aldean ("I Ain't Ready to Quit"), Florida Georgia Line ("Round Here") and Scotty McCreery ("Write Your Number on My Hand"). He also shares a co-writing credit on many of the songs he's released, including "Marry Me," "Die a Happy Man" and "Unforgettable." 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!