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Did you know that more than 300 different species that call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home? From Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail to DinoLand U.S.A., see some hidden “a-boar-able" animals you may have missed on your last visit! When you want to see animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where’s the first place you go? Kilimanjaro Safaris is a great place to list, and with over 30 species roaming the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, you’re guaranteed a wild encounter. Here are five “secret” animals to look out for during your next visit. 1. Kangaroos While snapping a photo in front of the Tree of Life, you might be photobombed by a sweet, energetic kangaroo! Disney’s Animal Kingdom is home to two species of kangaroos including four western grey and two red. To get a better look, turn left at the Tree of Life photo area, and you’ll see the kangaroos to your right. The red ones have a white stripe on their face, which is how you can tell the difference. 2. American Crocodile Over in DinoLand, you can find more than just dinosaurs! It’s also home to Marley, the American crocodile. You can find him making his way between water and land throughout the day to regulate his body temperature. Wondering how you can tell the difference between this reptilian species and their alligator cousin? Look at their snouts! American crocodiles have long narrow snouts while alligators have a wider, U-shaped snout. 3. Naked Mole Rats Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is a great place to find big animals like hippos, gorillas and okapis, but it’s also home to one of our smallest animals: naked mole rats. You can find these little, pink rodents in the research center and, while they may look naked, they’re actually covered in very fine hair. Their hair is sensory and helps them navigate the dark, underground tunnels where they live. 4. Southern Giant Anteaters Before heading to Discovery Island, take a moment to enjoy The Oasis, located at the very front of the Park before you see the Tree of Life. It’s home to many unique animals, like the southern giant anteater. With their long, cylindrical snouts, anteaters have an incredible sense of smell, up to 40 times stronger than humans. They rely heavily on this sense because of their not too great eyesight. 5. Animals at Rafiki’s Planet Watch Did you know you can take a short and scenic train ride to visit a very special section of the park? Rafiki’s Planet Watch is one of my favorite “secret” spots at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and it’s the perfect place to spot some of our most lovable animals. At the Conservation Station, you can find reptiles like the Florida-native gopher tortoise, the desert rosy boa and the colorful splash-backed poison frog. If your timing is right, you may catch the animal health team caring for animals through an observation window at Disney’s state-of-the-art veterinary hospital. Bonus: Paroon Shark Catfish Got time to visit one more animal? Say hi to Bruce the paroon shark catfish near the Tree of Life Garden! These freshwater fish often spend their time in deeper water and can grow up to ten feet long. We hope you’re inspired to travel off the beaten path to experience these special animals during your next trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us

Gideon’s Bakehouse have previously hinted that wave one of their Trading Card Series will not last forever, and it looks like the end is nearing! If you're still trying to fill out your collection, Gideon's are going to help you complete your collection!! From now, all boxes containing trading cards will now include TWO cards per order. Also, online orders will receive two trading cards instead of one. Double your chances of getting the rare chase cards or finishing your collection! While Gideon's won't say how long the promo will last, they will be dropping hits on their social media accounts! ⁣ How do you get these cards?⁣ ⁣ 1) In-Store: Purchase enough Cookies to fill a Medium or Large Cookie Box at Gideon's Bakehouse. Two are hidden inside!⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 2) Online: We will place two random cards in every online merch order over $20. This does NOT apply in-store. To be clear, it is every order OVER $20, not cards for every $20 spent. Ya dig? ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ These cards cannot be purchased alone. 1) and 2) is your only path. You can not ask for specific cards. They are pre-inserted in the boxes. Lady luck is your only hope. Now read on for April's limited edition goodies... Mourning Joe Returns!!⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣ The spectacular Coffee Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookie is your April Limited Edition flavor! This handmade, almost 1/2 pound Vanilla based Cookie is filled and topped with freshly ground espresso beans and complimented with Toffee (for a sweet crunch), Dark Chocolates (for richness), and a sprinkling of sea salt harvested from Mourning Joe's tears. This emotional Gideon's Cookie fuels your spirit with all the feels.⁣⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣ This precious Limited Cookie is available at both locations, Gideon's at Disney Springs and the original store in the East End Market, every day of April. Limit 2 per person.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Get a slice of the Coffee Toffee Vanilla Bean Cake every Wednesday and Saturday at both locations! This towering behemoth features three layers of a Vanilla Coffee Bean Cake smothered in our signature thick layers of Coffee Buttercream and filled with Crunchy Toffee Pieces! While supplies last. Limit two per person. ⁣⁣ The super yummy Salted Caramel Nitro Cold Brew! This was one of last year's most popular offerings, so don't miss out. Like all of our flavors, the Salted Caramel is 100% housemade and this is also Vegan and Gluten-Free, though you would never know it! Available ONLY at Gideon's in Disney Springs!⁣⁣⁣ MERCH MERCH MERCH! The new Mourning Joe T-shirt is now available in stores and online! Also, check out the mysterious new Black & Gold Crystal Ball Gideon's Pin! Also in stores and online right meow! ⁣⁣ ONLINE ONLY MERCH! The popular Mourning Joe candle is now available in our first massive 3-Wick candle! Fill your home with the immersive scent of sweet coffee! Finally, get the new Mourning Joe Limited Edition 11x14 signed print! These sell out fast and will not return, so add to your collection today!!⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ You can visit Gideon's in Disney Springs, Sunday to Thursday 10 am to 11pm, and Friday and Saturday 10 am to 11:30 pm. Or you can visit Gideon's at their original location at the East End Market, which is located at 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, the store here is open seven days per week, 10am to 7pm. Gideon's Bakehouse began in a home kitchen with one goal: to create an extraordinary Chocolate Chip Cookie. Fifteen years and thousands of tests later, the work was complete, Staying true to the original process, cutting no corners, putting every handmade detail into the 20 hours required to prepare a single almost half pound Cookie or a tall slice of Cake, Gideon's invite people from around the world to share in the sweet and the salty goodness that is hand baked into every Cookie or Cake. Gideon’s Bakehouse has two locations, the original bakery at East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, and the bakeries newest location at Disney Springs. Things To know Before Visiting Gideon’s At Disney Springs! Gideon’s Bakehouse is a popular single-owner small business based in Orlando that has gained international attention when it opened it's location at Disney Springs. It can get pretty crazy at the Disney Springs store with people waiting for hours to get their hands on a prized Gideon's near half pound cookie! To help you get enjoy lots of yummy Gideon's goodness, the bakery have shared some helpful information based on an average day to set an expectation and help you plan. • The bakery opens at 10 am, but the line typically begins to form at 9 am, when the parking garage opens. • Once the bakery opens, when the line gets too long, they switch to a Virtual Queue. This allows you to go anywhere while waiting for a return text. On weekdays the Virtual Queue can start anytime from open to evening or not at all, depending on crowds. On weekends and holidays it can happen right at 10am. After receiving your text, you will check in at the end of the return line. It looks scary but is typically no more than a 15-minute wait. For international guests, we will give you a return time if you can’t receive texts. • Sign up for the queue must be done in person. When active, you will find Gideon's staff to the right of the front door under the protection of Gideon's Gargoyle. • Plan for wait times of around two hours. For busy days (Friday through Sunday, holidays, holiday seasons), the virtual queue averages five hours. The earlier you arrive, the shorter the wait and the better the selection since limited edition items will sell out. A general rule, if you know the parks are slammed, we’re slammed. • On average, between 6 pm and 8 pm every day the virtual queue is active, and the waiting list will hit capacity. When this happens the bakery closes the queue to handle everyone on the list and to ensure the bakery closes on time. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

The popular local Mexican restaurant chain Pepe’s Cantina, well known for its table side guacamole and freshly hand made tortillas will soon be opening a new location in Oviedo. Opening soon in the space of the former La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant, the new Pepe’s Cantina will be located at 3100 Alafaya Trail. Pepe’s Cantina which offers traditional Mexican food from all regions of Mexico currently have three locations, W New England Ave, Winter Park, W Minneola Ave, Clermont, and S Charles Richard Beall Blvd in DeBary. Pepe's describe themselves as a restaurant that offers a signature blend of authentic Mexican ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, where Pepe and his team are ready to bring the best of Mexico right to your table! A visit to Pepe’s Cantina is a unique Mexican experience in an always friendly and fun atmosphere. Right now there is no opening date for the new restaurant, but we will keep you updated on when Pepe’s Cantina plans to open the doors to its new Oviedo location. Until the new restaurant opens you can of course visit Pepe’s Cantina in Winter Park, Clermont, and DeBary. Specials include Taco Tuesday where you can get 3 baby tacos for $7.99, or on a Sunday you can enjoy brunch with Bottomless Mimosas! As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us if you have any comments this article.

Sprinkles at Disney Springs is know for it's freshly baked cupcakes, and you’ll find new and seasonal cupcakes each month, all offering a delicious twist on American Classics. This weekend only don't go looking down the rabbit hole for yummy easter treats, just pop on over to Sprinkles at Disney Springs for limited edition cupcakes that are only available until tomorrow, Easter Sunday, April 9 only. First up is the Chocolate Bunny... A dream for chocolate lovers that starts with dark chocolate cake filled with chocolate ganache, topped with chocolate cream cheese frosting and finished with a ladle of decadent chocolate ganache. Next is the Easter Fancy Sprinkle. The Easter Fancy Sprinkle cupcake is a must have at all celebrations this Spring. This hoppy twist on our classic Red Velvet cupcake is red velvet cake topped with cream cheese frosting and finished with exclusive Easter sprinkles by Fancy Sprinkles. Also available now is the Berries & Cream Cupcake. This limited edition cupcake will be around a little more time that the Easter treats, this cupcake is available through until April 16. The perfect Spring dessert - pie crust lined blueberry studded vanilla cake cored and filled with blueberry pie filling, then frosted with vanilla buttercream and finished with lilac sugar crystals. Coming soon to Sprinkles is a returning favorite, the Mythical Creature with Mother's, which will be available from Monday, April 10 until April 23. Baking 4/10-4/23 Sprinkles' collaboration with Mother's is back with the Mythical Creature cupcake! Celebrate all things magic with this whimsical pink, blue and purple sprinkle studded cake with a purple cookie-crust and pink vanilla buttercream frosting. All finished with a dash of silver sugar crystals and a Mother’s Mythical Creature Cookie. Sprinkles bakes fresh throughout the day at Disney Springs. Their cupcakes, layer cakes, cookies, brownies, and ice cream are handcrafted from the finest ingredients. For more details check out Sprinkles website. Plus, don't forget the Cupcake ATM located near the shop’s entrance, the delightful powder pink cupcake and cookie dispensing machine operates 24/7 and is an attraction in itself, ready to dispense delicious cupcakes anytime! As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Gideon’s Bakehouse delight us ever month with delicious limited editions flavors, sometimes new, and often they delight us with returning much loved flavorsalso. For April we have a returning favorite, the Coffee Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookie and more, which you can read about in this article... BUT, the main news this Easter weekend is that Gideon's have surprised us with two ridiculous desserts that are a first for Gideon's. First up is a Cream Cheese Stuffed Sugar Cookie! Have you ever wanted to try the Vanilla Cookie Dough without chips? Here is your chance (kinda) because Gideon's have taking that naked Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, stuffing it with a Cream Cheese Frosting, and coating the top with Chunky Sugar Crystals! Next up is something amazing! Easter Carrot Cake! That's right, the first appearance of a classic Carrot Cake at Gideon's! Three layers of soft Ginger Spiced Carrot Cake surrounded by their signature healthy portion of Cheesecake Frosting and accented with Candied Pecans and, of course, Buttercream Carrots! The goal of this cake was to make it a soft and smooth experience and an Easter Cake that melts in your mouth.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Both offerings are available now at both locations. They are limited to two per person while supplies last. Don't expect these to last all day! Early bird if you want the goods! Hunt for these Friday, Saturday, and Easter Sunday at Gideon's in Disney Springs. East End will be closed Easter Sunday, so you'll only get Friday and Saturday at the OG location.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ HANDLING! Both items contain cream cheese that doesn't like heat and Florida Be Hot Y'All! Do me a favor and just eat them after purchase. The cake, especially, wants to stay cold at all times. Please treat the babies with care and respect for our sake and yours.⁣⁣ Now read on for April's limited edition goodies... Mourning Joe Returns!!⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣ The spectacular Coffee Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookie is your April Limited Edition flavor! This handmade, almost 1/2 pound Vanilla based Cookie is filled and topped with freshly ground espresso beans and complimented with Toffee (for a sweet crunch), Dark Chocolates (for richness), and a sprinkling of sea salt harvested from Mourning Joe's tears. This emotional Gideon's Cookie fuels your spirit with all the feels.⁣⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣ This precious Limited Cookie is available at both locations, Gideon's at Disney Springs and the original store in the East End Market, every day of April. Limit 2 per person.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Get a slice of the Coffee Toffee Vanilla Bean Cake every Wednesday and Saturday at both locations! This towering behemoth features three layers of a Vanilla Coffee Bean Cake smothered in our signature thick layers of Coffee Buttercream and filled with Crunchy Toffee Pieces! While supplies last. Limit two per person. ⁣⁣ The super yummy Salted Caramel Nitro Cold Brew! This was one of last year's most popular offerings, so don't miss out. Like all of our flavors, the Salted Caramel is 100% housemade and this is also Vegan and Gluten-Free, though you would never know it! Available ONLY at Gideon's in Disney Springs!⁣⁣⁣ MERCH MERCH MERCH! The new Mourning Joe T-shirt is now available in stores and online! Also, check out the mysterious new Black & Gold Crystal Ball Gideon's Pin! Also in stores and online right meow! ⁣⁣ ONLINE ONLY MERCH! The popular Mourning Joe candle is now available in our first massive 3-Wick candle! Fill your home with the immersive scent of sweet coffee! Finally, get the new Mourning Joe Limited Edition 11x14 signed print! These sell out fast and will not return, so add to your collection today!!⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ You can visit Gideon's in Disney Springs, Sunday to Thursday 10 am to 11pm, and Friday and Saturday 10 am to 11:30 pm. Or you can visit Gideon's at their original location at the East End Market, which is located at 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, the store here is open seven days per week, 10am to 7pm. Gideon's Bakehouse began in a home kitchen with one goal: to create an extraordinary Chocolate Chip Cookie. Fifteen years and thousands of tests later, the work was complete, Staying true to the original process, cutting no corners, putting every handmade detail into the 20 hours required to prepare a single almost half pound Cookie or a tall slice of Cake, Gideon's invite people from around the world to share in the sweet and the salty goodness that is hand baked into every Cookie or Cake. Gideon’s Bakehouse has two locations, the original bakery at East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, and the bakeries newest location at Disney Springs. Things To know Before Visiting Gideon’s At Disney Springs! Gideon’s Bakehouse is a popular single-owner small business based in Orlando that has gained international attention when it opened it's location at Disney Springs. It can get pretty crazy at the Disney Springs store with people waiting for hours to get their hands on a prized Gideon's near half pound cookie! To help you get enjoy lots of yummy Gideon's goodness, the bakery have shared some helpful information based on an average day to set an expectation and help you plan. • The bakery opens at 10 am, but the line typically begins to form at 9 am, when the parking garage opens. • Once the bakery opens, when the line gets too long, they switch to a Virtual Queue. This allows you to go anywhere while waiting for a return text. On weekdays the Virtual Queue can start anytime from open to evening or not at all, depending on crowds. On weekends and holidays it can happen right at 10am. After receiving your text, you will check in at the end of the return line. It looks scary but is typically no more than a 15-minute wait. For international guests, we will give you a return time if you can’t receive texts. • Sign up for the queue must be done in person. When active, you will find Gideon's staff to the right of the front door under the protection of Gideon's Gargoyle. • Plan for wait times of around two hours. For busy days (Friday through Sunday, holidays, holiday seasons), the virtual queue averages five hours. The earlier you arrive, the shorter the wait and the better the selection since limited edition items will sell out. A general rule, if you know the parks are slammed, we’re slammed. • On average, between 6 pm and 8 pm every day the virtual queue is active, and the waiting list will hit capacity. When this happens the bakery closes the queue to handle everyone on the list and to ensure the bakery closes on time. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida. You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, don't forget to subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

The City of Winter Park and the Center for Health and Wellbeing are teaming up to host the Ward & Wellbeing Earth Day Block Party on Saturday, April 22. The block party will kick off bright and early at 7:30 am with the 30th Run for the Trees Jeannette Genius McKean Memorial 5k presented by the Center for Health & Wellbeing, hosted by The City of Winter Park and Track Shack. Runners can click HERE to register, with all runners asked to bring old running shoes that can be recycled through Track Shack’s Sneaker Seekers Program. The route takes runners through the gorgeous Genius Preserve, an area that is usually out of bounds to the public and features historic orange groves and a decommissioned orange packing plant on the shores of beautiful Lake Virginia. The Earth Day Block Party itself will be from 8 am to 11.20 am in Ward Park located at 250 Perth Lane, and also inside the Center for Health & Wellbeing located at 2005 Mizell Avenue. At Ward Park you can expect vendors & family fun including sustainable giveaways, FREE kids’ activities, FREE Kona Ice, FREE face painting, electric cars on display, family-friendly art projects, solar co-op information with Solar United Neighbors, recycled shoe program, wild animal Meet-n-Greet and more. Highlights at Center for Health & Wellbeing activities include a Rise & Dine Breakfast from Nourish Coffee Bar + Kitchen, Crosby Wellness Center tours, art projects & face painting, extra large lawn games, AdventHealth Health Education Connect in the Healthy Living Experience, passport scavenger hunt with giveaway, food, music & fun for the whole family, sample fitness classes with Crosby Wellness Center Instructors and more! In honor of Earth Day, certified arborists from the city’s Urban Forestry Division will also be on-site to answer questions and give away an assortment of one-gallon trees to participants of Run for the Trees. Residents can sign up to receive their free tree through the Community Canopy Program. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us

It's been almost two years since a new restaurant called The Mongolorian BBQ announced that it was taking over the former Firehouse Subs space at 2217 East Colonial Drive in the Mills 50 area, and that to be honest was the last we heard about the project. Fast forward to the present and finally we have great news as The Mongolorian is getting ready to cook up some delicious Mongolian BBQ bowls that are tossed and sauced automatically by tabletop stir fryers! While no actual date has been announced, the quick-service, build-a-bowl restaurant should be opening this Spring, we will of course keep you updated with more details as we get them. The team behind The Mongolorian are the same team that are behind the popular King Bao on Mills Avenue and E. Colonial Drive, plus Poke Hana, Chi-Kina nd Matcha House. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us

Central Florida Community Arts has announced its production of Once Upon A Dream: 100 Years of Musical Magic, and it's not just any old choir concert you're invited to... It's a CFCArts spectacle! With hundreds of choir and orchestra members, theatrical lighting and effects, actors to thread a story throughout the evening, and even some special surprises, you won't want to miss Once Upon a Dream taking place on May 4 and 5, 2023, at Northland Church in Longwood. CFCArts production of Once Upon A Dream: 100 Years of Musical Magic will feature 300 members in an immersive extravaganza that will take the audience on a musical revue of Disney animated and live-action films from the last century. This concert experience will highlight music from the early animated days of the 1920s to the animated renaissance of the 1990s, the recent smash hits of the last 20 years, and even a celebration of live entertainment from Disney parks and destinations. This performance is one of CFCArts many Disney-themed events this year, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company. CFCArts Community Choir director and founding member Brandon Fender is excited to share the magic which, like so many others, he grew up adoring. “This isn’t a standard choir concert, but rather a fully produced, multimedia, theatrical experience that features the CFCArts choir and orchestra,” Fender said. Featuring theatrical lighting, projections, and other enchanting effects, this immersive concert will wrap the audience in nostalgia and awe, reigniting the magic of Disney they first experienced as children. “I have such wonderful memories of growing up and going to the movie theater and seeing my favorite hero or princess in action on the big screen,” Fender said. “Having the ability to experience those movies come to life in my backyard at the Disney Parks was life-changing and set a trajectory for my career to come. As a kid, I would lock myself away for hours, putting on cassette tapes and putting on shows for myself in my bedroom. Thirty years later, I’m still putting on shows, but the experience looks a bit different.” Once Upon a Dream combines several programs into one spectacular performance. The iconic music that holds such personal memories inspired many members to take part in the celebration. “The choir is growing so much—not just in numbers of members but in diversity,” Fender explains. “I’m proud of this season in so many ways, but one that sticks out to me is the nearly 60 new choir members joining us, connecting with our family of artists, and rediscovering their love of music and choral singing.” Once Upon a Dream even includes actors that will share stories throughout the evening, emphasizing the generational impact of Disney and how there is no time limit to experiencing the magic. This show will be a celebration of a century’s worth of memories passed down through families and loved ones. “No matter what someone is experiencing in their life, we believe there is a Disney song that can lift their spirits,” said CFCArts Vice President of Creative & Production Justin Muchoney. “The relatable characters and stories help every member of a family feel less alone, knowing that there is always not just a star they can wish upon, but also an unexpected community of people eager to help their dream come true.” With a number of choir and staff members being past or present Disney cast members, the Once Upon a Dream performers and crew are deeply connected to telling these timeless stories. For example, Muchoney worked at Disney, starting off as a spokesperson for the parks during “The Year of a Million Dreams” and worked for 12 years in a variety of roles prior to joining CFCArts full-time. Director of Production Juan Torres, Fender himself, and several other production team members currently work in leadership and production roles within entertainment at Walt Disney World. Whether it be their personal connection to working with Disney or love for the company itself, each choir member brings something special to the stage to contribute to a feeling of nostalgia and childlike wonder to this concert. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us

A new corner store and coffee shop called Sunset Bodegea, opened on Wednesday, April 5 near Constitution Green in downtown Orlando’s South Eola neighborhood. The new business located inside a former house that was built in 1933 on East Jackson Street and South Eola Drive had a soft opening on Wednesday from 12 pm to 5 pm The bodega is situated in a former house built in 1933 at East Jackson Street. On Wednesday and Thursday, while the business never opened its actual doors, it did offer food and drinks, including coffee, tea, espresso, smoothies, beer and more from a walk up window in the building. “We will only be open through our walk up window this week,” the store said in an Instagram post. “If you give us a follow and like this post, you will get a free cup of coffee on us. Just show us at the window.” All seemed to be going well, with the store even posting a picture on Instagram of new stock arriving at the store. Then, today, Friday, April 7, the new business has announced on its instagram account that it has closed permanently. "We are so sorry to announce that we will no longer be opening up in downtown Orlando." The company appear to blame the City Of Orlando for the stores downfall, "The city staff has made it impossible for us to be successful." The post continues "Please take it from us, downtown is going through major changes and the hierarchy that makes most of the decisions is controlled by one or two people. These people do not care about what’s best for us or our neighborhood, they only care about their agendas. Get ready for a lot of dust as the big buildings and developers continue to get their way with these same individuals. We will continue to live here, raise our kids here, and most importantly continue to love our city no matter what! Happy Easter and GOD bless" No comments have been given by the City Of Orlando in response to the comments from Sunset Bodega. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us

Orlando Carnival Downtown 2023 is returning to downtown Orlando with a colourful parade on Church Street and a fun and festive festival and concert at Lake Lorna Doone Park, all on Sunday, May 28 2023. At 1pm the Mas Band parade kicks off down the streets of Church Street surrounding Camping World Stadium. Come out early to watch them as the trucks and masqueraders parade through the streets! At 6pm the parade winds down and they go straight into the concert at Lake Lorna Doone Park, 1519 West Church Street, Orlando. Performing this year are the 2023 Reigning Soca Monarch Bunji Garlin, Mr. Killa out of Grenada, Fay Ann Lyons, Adam O and Pumpa out of the US Virgin Islands, Tony Cuttz and Vicadi Singh bring Chutney to the Carnival Stage and Adrian Dutchin comes to invite you to Cricket Carnival in Guyana with the Orlando Team! Tickets to the concert and festival in Lake Lorna Done Park are available now. Orlando Carnival Downtown is not just about the parade and concert, throughout the weekend there is so much happening throughout Memorial Weekend! Scroll on down for all that's happening. FRIDAY, 26 MAY 2023 Carnival on the Runway A Fashion showcase for up and coming designers on Orlando Carnival Downtown weekend Friday to kickstart the weekend. You are invited to attend the most fabulous fashion show a combination of mas, fashion and culture. Taking you through the world of Carnival through fashion from what you wear to the parties - fetes, jouvert, liming, costumes and monday wear! Carnival on the Runway is taking costumes into high fashion! This year - a designer will win a grand prize of $3000.00. Join us to kick off Carnival Friday at the hottest fashion show of Memorial Weekend SATURDAY, 27 MAY 2023 Orlando Carnival Jouvert Orlando Carnival Downtown & Central Florida Jouvert presents the craziest Jouvert in North America! More than just PAINT! WATER! MUSIC! FUN! Expect a water truck, water and paint giveaways to general admission ticket holders. General Admission tickets get a free CARIB Beer upon entering the park and a paint and water package. Food and drinks are on sale! Join one of our all inclusive bands and get a whole different vibe! SATURDAY, 27 MAY 2023 Back in Time Lime Back in Time Lime 2023 featuring David Rudder The Back in Time Lime is our cultural highlight of the weekend. You enter a pan yard, a calypso tent, enjoy the riddim section, tassa drumming, african drums, moko jumbies and live performances. This event is our tribute to the Calypso tents, the Mas tents, the heart of Carnival. This year, the lyrics man himself "King David Rudder" will be performing live. Come out in your Traditional Mas - Sailor Mas, Ole Mas, and even bring your feathers and get ready to dance with us. At the Back In Time Lime, we offer the opportunity check in at our on site mas camp to get any last minute touchups done to your costume. Pick up a backpack for the road and add some feathers to an old one to wear in the park on Carnival day - even if you were too late to join a band! Back In Time Lime is a family friendly event. All ages welcome! As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.

Orlando Science Center's $12 Day is back on April 16, 2023. Everyone is invited to enjoy four floors of wonder and discovery at half the usual price. Explore exhibits, movies, and live programming all around the building. Whether you’re 7 years old or 70 years young, $12 Day is your chance to see what’s new and learn some things, too! From live shows and interactive exhibits to giant screen movies, Orlando Science Center offers hours of air-conditioned experiences to help people of all ages learn and grow! KidsTown offers multiple areas for infants to age 7 while the HIVE: A Makerspace turns your creative ideas into a reality. You can unearth dinosaur mysteries in DinoDigs or check out Kinetic Zone, which shows how engineering keep the world moving. Visitors can explore our changing planet through a different lens in a new exhibit, Earth Matters, presented by VoLo Foundation. Immerse yourself in incredible ecosystems, and learn how the smallest actions can impact our natural world! Limited tickets are available for the discounted $12 Day, and they can sell out, so be sure to get yours online today! Check out everything included with your $12 admission on $12 Day! Hooray for Habitats StoryTime 10:30 am & 11:30 am KidsTown Studio This interactive program will focus on nature’s different habitats and the creatures who live in them. Then we’ll create a habitat for a feathered friend! Dino Safari 11:30 am – 12:00 pm DinoDigs Dig deeper into the ever-evolving world of paleontology as an OSC tour guide leads you through our dinosaur hall. Boom… Roasted! 12:30 pm 4Roots Cafe We’ll explore how coffee transforms from bean to brew as we try to get the most out of your roast. Recommended Ages 6+ High Voltage 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm Digital Adventure Theater Learn all about the types of electricity through this live show, culminating in a musical Tesla Coil performance!Painted Pollinator Pots Workshop 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm KidsTown Studio Join us to learn about some of Earth’s most important creatures: pollinators! We’ll learn about what pollination is, and how we can do our part to help pollinators thrive. Then, we’ll hydro dip terracotta pots to plant our own pollinator garden in. This workshop runs for 45 minutes and requires adult participation and supervision. Mindboggling Science 2:30 pm Discovery Stage Is it magic or science? Either way, your mind is sure to be boggled in this ever-changing stage show! Global Warning! 4:00 – 4:30 pm Discovery StageRegardless of age, opinion, or knowledge of the subject, there is something for everyone in this fun demonstration-based show about Earth’s changing climate. Tiny Green Home Tours 10:30 am – 4:00 pm | Outside 4Roots Cafe Explore our humble home filled with technology and tips to live sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint! Earth Exploration 11:00 am – 4:00 pm | Our Planet Enjoy an enhanced exhibit experience with one of our Earth-loving facilitators! Head to the Our Planet Exhibit to check out one of our rotating demonstrations. Self-Guided Experiments: Nature and Wildlife 11:30 am – 3:30 pm | Dr. Dare’s LabInvestigate nature up close with wildlife and aquatic themed experiments. Recommended age 6+ As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site. Contact Us

An exciting new restaurant concept is coming soon to Lake Nona, and will no doubt add to the wonderful selection of culinary experiences and nightlife in the area. From Tavistock Restaurant Collection (TRC) comes Nami, an exciting new Japanese-inspired concept, set to open in Lake Nona this summer. Nami will highlight the collective talent from some of the top chefs in the country and beyond to offer a distinctive food and beverage experience. Nami is discreetly tucked away at Lake Nona Wave Hotel, adjacent to the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden, a distinguished selection of sculptures from one of the world’s largest private art collections. Nami’s intimate and exclusive, 10-seat omakase counter will offer a modern approach to the traditional chef-curated experience. An energetic cocktail bar and dining room will offer a different experience, with thoughtfully prepared menus that juxtapose precise technique with playful nuances to offer Nami’s interpretive take on Japanese ingredients and flavors. Lake Nona Wave Hotel is heralded as one of the most technologically advanced hotels in the world. With a striking façade of curved glass inspired by a wavelength of energy, the hotel features 216 guest rooms, 16 one-bedroom suites and two penthouse suites. Bringing a new and unexpected experience just minutes from Orlando International Airport, Lake Nona Wave Hotel is a luxury lifestyle hotel that is home to experiential drinking and dining, world-class art and design as well as health and well-being innovations. The hotel is steps from Lake Nona Town Center dining, shopping, and entertainment. For more information, please visit www.lakenonawavehotel.com. As always, keep checking back with us here at Gotta Go Orlando as we continue to bring you the latest news and information from around Orlando and Central Florida You can also discover our latest news, views, and more on our socials, follow Gotta Go Orlando on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, subscribe to the Gotta Go Orlando YouTube Channel for all the latest from Orlando's Theme Parks, Attractions and more. Please note: Some posts may contain affiliate links which means we could earn money if you purchase products or services via our site.