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Sally Dark Rides shares details and exclusively unveil an interactive animatronic Mr. Krabs for its latest dark ride, SpongeBob’s Crazy Carnival Ride during a press conference at the IAAPA Expo 2023 trade show floor. Sally Dark Rides unveiled a colorful new animatronic Mr. Krabs, to enthusiastic fans and media, for first-ever dark ride at Circus Circus’s the Adventuredome. The animatronic will be part of Sponge Bob’s Crazy Carnival Ride, the very first dark ride to ever open at the Adventuredome amusement park. The interactive family ride will debut early in the first quarter of 2024 and will feature an exclusive storyline developed by Sally’s creative team. Mr. Krabs is SpongBob’s greedy boss, and he launches the ride by inviting guests to play in his collection of ride-through-style midway games. The ride will feature 15 unique scenes with multiple interactive targets for guests to engage, including animated scene elements and digital multimedia screens. There’s even hidden bonus special targets. John Wood, chairman and president of Sally Rides, says, “We’re just so happy to be entrusted to bring these characters to life in the first SpongeBob’s Crazy Carnival Ride. Our team is going to make this a special and fun family experience for SpongeBob fans.” 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!

Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc., exhibiting for the 100th time at IAAPA Expo, debut a new custom train design for the most historic roller coaster at Hersheypark, Comet! The Comet at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania is receiving a brand new set of classy trains in 2024 from Philadelphia Toboggan Coaster. One of the lead cars—with COMET stamped on the front—will grace the familiar wooden coaster for a smooth ride. “We're just excited that it's been a wonderful adventure. And I'd said before, and I can say I love building this style car,” says Thomas D. Rebbie, president and CEO of PTC. Rebbie is particularly proud of this roller coaster train style, as its design is one of his first crowning achievements since starting at PTC. Rebbie says the partnership between Hersheypark and PTC spans 75 years. The Comet was built by PTC in May of 1946, and is of notable importance as a standing legacy of both Hersheypark and the Hershey company’s founder. Laura Woodburn Krolczyk, assistant general manager of Hersheypark, is proud of the Comet’s role in Hersheypark history, and excited about how PTC has styled the new trains. “It was the last ride our founder Milton S. Hershey selected,” says Woodburn Krolczyk. “So this ride has had a lot of different color treatments, different themes from green trains, red trains, black trains, blue trains.” The new trains sport a shimmering comet that will streak down the side of the trains as they coast over the wooden structure. “Tom and his team have created an absolutely stunning new set of trains for us with a gold elements with the metal flake in the paint. That star screaming across the track, it's gonna look absolutely stunning in Hersheypark,” gloats Woodburn Krolczyk. 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!

At the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo in Orlando, Cedar Point has revealed the REAL Top Thrill 2 train. There’s a “Revvvolution” taking place at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, as Top Thrill 2 from Zamperla continues to climb 420 feet above the Lake Erie shore below. The lead car from blue train debuted at IAAPA Expo in grand style at the Zamperla booth on Tuesday morning. “You are in the right spot,” Antonio Zamperla jokes with the hundreds of IAAPA Expo attendees who surrounded booth No. 2024 as representatives of Zamperla and Cedar Point pulled back the curtain on Top Thrill 2’s sleek train, featuring a lengthy nose cone set atop a new all-aluminum chassis. “Most coasters like this have a steel chassis. This is one piece of milled aluminum, so [there are] no welds,” explains Adam Sandy with Zamperla, as he points to the huge wheels on Top Thrill 2 that stretch 530 millimeters. “We have three launches back-to-back-to-back, so we have to take that energy and help it dissipate.” Top Thrill 2 will launch riders 74 mph up an existing top hat element, before allowing gravity to take over, producing a rollback where the train will launch 101 mph backwards up a reverse spike, before accelerating 120 feet up the former ride’s iconic 420-foot-tall top hat. Top Thrill 2 opens summer 2024 at Cedar Point. 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!

At the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo in Orlando, S&S Worldwide has revealed the company's first axis coaster. S&S Worldwide has revealed a car from the roller coasters it is building at new Transformers-themed family entertainment centers in Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia for Saudi Entertainment Ventures (Seven). The rides will be the company’s first Axis coasters, which incorporate 4D vehicle technology with free-rotating seats that independently spin on a horizontal axis. The coasters will deliver different ride experiences based on the weight and distribution of passengers. “We took a standard roller coaster, added our patented and exclusive spin technology, and transformed it into something extremely unique and something we knew the world needed,” says Jason Mons, S&S executive vice president. In addition to the axis rotation, the coasters will also feature linear synchronous motor (LSM) launches and inversions. The attraction planned for Riyadh will rise 46 feet and reach a top speed of 45 mph. The Transformer-branded family entertainment centers are being developed under license by Hasbro. They are part of 21 entertainment destinations that Seven is developing across Saudi Arabia. “We have been working tirelessly for the last five years to bring an amazing set of attractions to the Kingdom,” says Damien Latham, Seven’s chief attractions officer. When he was walking the IAAPA show floor two years ago, Latham said he was drawn to the S&S booth and immediately identified the Axis coaster as being perfect for the Transformers theme. “I think you’re going to love this ride,” he adds. 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 global attractions industry has descended upon Orlando as IAAPA Expo 2023 officially opened its doors at the Orange County Convention Center today, Tuesday, November 14, 2023. The largest event of its kind, IAAPA Expo brings together industry professionals from around the world to showcase the latest innovations, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities within the attractions and amusements sector. This year's IAAPA Expo is set to be a groundbreaking event, with a sold-out trade show floor that boasts an impressive 1,147 exhibitors across more than 550,000 square feet of exhibit space to showcase cutting-edge technology, rides, and experiences that promise to revolutionize the industry. Michael Shelton, executive director and vice president of IAAPA North America, commented on this milestone: “The incredible demand for exhibition space at IAAPA Expo 2023 captures the seriousness of the industry and the dedication to constantly reinvent itself. It’s a direct reflection of the eagerness of our members and exhibitors to be part of an event that sets the stage for the future of attractions. We are thrilled to see the entire trade show floor completely sold out.” Counting down to the show floor opening at 10 a.m., attendees gathered in the IAAPA Theater sponsored by Simtec Systems, Inc. for a jaw-dropping Opening Ceremony. That kickoff event offered a mix of high-energy entertainment, provided insight into the importance of the week ahead, and set the stage for everything scheduled at IAAPA Expo. Shelton encouraged attendees to “explore the entire nine miles of show floor aisles and the numerous education opportunities Expo offers.” Innovation is at the forefront of IAAPA Expo 2023, with exhibitors and industry leaders pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the attractions business. “IAAPA Expo is where the magic of innovation happens, and it’s on full display here in Orlando. From groundbreaking rides and entertainment concepts to the latest in guest experience technology, IAAPA Expo is where the industry converges to shape the future,” said Jakob Wahl, president and chief executive officer for IAAPA. “The atmosphere is electric, and we're thrilled to reunite the attractions industry and be the place where inspiration shapes the future of fun.” IAAPA Expo is not only about innovation and business deals but also about the incredible networking opportunities it provides. Industry professionals from all over the world gather at this annual event, creating a dynamic environment where meaningful connections are forged. With attendees from over 100 countries, the opportunities for collaboration and expansion are limitless. Whether you're a seasoned industry veteran or a newcomer, IAAPA Expo offers a platform to meet, learn, and grow within the attractions sector. The importance of IAAPA Expo cannot be overstated, as it serves as a catalyst for the future of the attractions industry. The event fosters collaboration, inspires innovation, and creates lasting partnerships that drive the industry forward. IAAPA Expo 2023 promises to be a memorable showcase of the best and brightest in the industry, and its influence will undoubtedly be felt worldwide. 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!

Grammy Award-winning rockstar Melissa Etheridge has announced that she’ll be back on the road in 2024 for her I’m Not Broken Tour in 2024. Melissa Etheridge, one of America's favorite female singers, will bring her I'm Not Broken Tour" to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa on Thursday, April 11, 2024. Social Media Pre-Sale is happening this Thursday, November 16 at 10 am with password, LYRICS. General admission tickets go on sale Friday 11/17/23 at 10 am. Get tickets here. The tour is an opportunity for fans to catch Melissa on the stage following her critically acclaimed Broadway engagement, My Window at Circle in the Square Theatre. The three-month long run began in September of 2023, just a year after her return to theatre in her one-woman show, My Window – A Journey Through Life. A busy fall for Etheridge, she also released her recent memoir Talking to My Angels on September 5th which debuted at No. 9 on the New York Times Bestseller list. 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!

Bianca Del Rio is heading out on the road bringing her new show DEAD INSIDE (18+ ages only) to the stage at Hard Rock Live Orlando on February 19, 2024. Everyone’s favorite clown in a gown, BIANCA DEL RIO, is returning to the stage with a new comedy show, aptly titled Dead Insid”. (18+) This will be the seasoned comic’s sixth, worldwide stand-up comedy tour. Bianca will be entertaining the masses with her iconic lightning-fast wit and razor-sharp tongue. Her new show will cover politics, pop culture, political correctness, current events, cancel culture, and everyday life through the eyes of someone who’s dead inside and finds humor in everything. As with all of her shows, there will be lots of audience interaction. When the Joan Rivers of the Drag World has a microphone in her hands, no one is safe!! Bianca Del Rio will take to the stage at Hard Rock Live Orlando on February 19, 2024, with tickets on sale Friday, November 17, 2023 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!

Veteran hard rock band EXTREME has added more dates to its Thicker Than Blood tour with special guests LIVING COLOUR, including a show in Orlando. Boston rock band Extreme have extended the Thicker Than Blood" tour again, and will be stopping off at Hard Rock Love Orlando with special guests giving Color on March 8, 2024. Get tickets this Friday, November 17, 2023. “We have been absolutely blown away by all of the love and support during the first leg of the Thicker Than Blood Tour,” said Extreme guitarist Nuno Bettencourt. “You all have shown up and brought it every night and we could not be more grateful. So, with that, we are excited to announce the second U.S. leg of the ‘Thicker Than Blood Tour’ with special guests Living Colour. Can’t wait to see you out there.” Formed in 1984 in New York, Living Colour enjoyed huge success in the mid-1980s through the early 1990s with such hits as “Cult of Personality.” The bands mixture of heavy metal, funk, jazz, hip hop, punk and alternative rock caught on world-wide. Living Colour, led by singer Corey Glover and guitarist Vernon Reid, won four Grammy Awards for “Best Hard Rock Performance” in 1990, 1991 and 1994. 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!

Ashley McBryde has added 30 dates to her 2024 The Devil I Know Tour including a stop here in Orlando. Country singing sensation Ashley McBryde has added 30 new dates to her The Devil I Know Tour including a stop in Orlando with special guest Meg McRee McBryde will take to the stage at House of Blues Orlando on April 4. Tickets on sale this Friday, November 17 at 10AM! A Live Nation Presale takes place this Thursday, November 16 at 10 am, with code: BACKSTAGE. 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!

Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire colab on Heart & Soul Tour to Tampa in August 2024. Music legends Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago, two of the most successful and critically-acclaimed bands of all time, have announced the return of their renowned co-headlining tour across North America – Heart & Soul 2024 Tour. The Live Nation produced tour brings together the timeless music of Chicago and the iconic catalog of Earth, Wind & Fire for one unforgettable night of music filled with epic sets from each artist that will culminate in an encore performance with both bands on stage together. The Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire: Heart & Soul Tour 2024 will stop off in Tampa on Friday, August 16, with a Live Nation Presale on Thursday, November 16 at 10am, with code: BACKSTAGE. With more than 200 million albums sold, 11 GRAMMY wins and nearly 30 nominations between them, the tour will continue to provide unparalleled entertainment from two of America’s most legendary musical groups. Billboard hails that Chicago is one of “the most successful American rock band[s] of all time, in terms of both albums and singles” and “been able to fill arenas with satisfied fans” with music that has endured throughout time while Rolling Stone has described Earth, Wind & Fire as “a funk-fusion powerhouse that changed the sound and history of popular music.” In 2016 Chicago was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Earth, Wind & Fire was inducted into the Hall in 2000. 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!

Comedian Tom Segura has announced the first leg of his new global stand-up comedy tour, Tom Segura: Come Together, and it includes a stop in Orlando. Get ready Orlando, a night of non-stop laughter is coming your way, because the hilarious Tom Segura is coming to Amway Center on March 14. Presale starts Wednesday, Nov 15 at 10AM local with code TOMMY. Get details here. Tom Segura is a popular American stand-up comedian and actor known for his sharp wit and hilarious observations. Segura has made a significant impact on the comedy world with his relatable humor and storytelling abilities. He has released several successful comedy specials, including "Completely Normal," "Mostly Stories," and "Ball Hog," all of which have been well-received by audiences. He is celebrated for his candid and humorous take on everyday life, relationships, and cultural observations, making him a favorite among comedy enthusiasts around the world. Tom Segura's unique comedic style and distinctive voice continue to make him a prominent figure in the comedy industry. 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!

Bryan Adams has announced that he is extending his So Happy It Hurts tour into 2024, with 31 new dates, all with support from Dave Stewart’s Eurythmics Songbook. Canadian singer, songwriter, and musician Bryan Adams, rose to fame in the 1980s with a string of successful albums and hit singles, and now Adams is bringing his So Happy It Hurts Tour to Orlando's Amway Center on March 8, with support from Dave Stewart’s Eurythmics Songbook. Tickets go on sale Sat, 11/18. Get details here. The tour announcement comes ahead of the release of Adams new box set, Live at the Royal Albert Hall on Dec. 8. The box set includes a total of 35 live songs, a Blu-Ray DVD of all the performances, plus a 32-page photo book featuring exclusive images from the three storied nights. 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!