Orlando's newest hotel, the brand new Hyatt House Orlando Airport has throw open it's doors today at Orlando’s Gateway Village, located at the main entrance to the Orlando International Airport along Semoran Boulevard and Beachline Expressway (528). Hyatt House is an all-new modern, extended-stay lodging option located at the entrance of Orlando International Airport, with Hyatt describing the hotel accommodation as offering the service and convenience of hotel living with the casual comforts of home. The 156 room hotel offers spacious suites, boasting kitchens with modern refrigerators, cutlery, and more. The hotel amenities include an in-house HBar, an outdoor heated pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. together with more than 3,500 square feet of customizable event space. Here is all that the Hyatt House Orlando Airport offers: 156 guestrooms, including 63 apartment-style Kitchen Suites with fully equipped kitchens, comfy living rooms, spacious bedrooms and stylish bathrooms Free Wi-Fi throughout hotel and guestrooms The Commons, a comfy lounge with an open and welcoming space for guests to relax, gather and socialize, and the Outdoor Commons, which includes an outdoor fire pit and BBQ, the perfect place to sip cocktails and enjoy savory bites An outdoor heated pool situated beside 3,400 square feet of lawn space, perfect for entertaining and connecting Complimentary breakfast for guests with an omelet bar as well as a variety of pre-packaged or individually wrapped hot and cold breakfast items to suit all guests’ needs The H BAR, which features the Sip + Snack Menu, a delicious menu with items including soups and sandwiches, plus premium beers and wines, offered seven days a week 24-hour H Market to meet the everyday needs of guests, from snacks and sundries to freshly prepared salads and sandwiches 24-hour Gym with state-of-the-art equipment to keep fitness routines going Gathering Rooms with more than 2,250 square feet of flexible meeting spaces, a tasty food and beverage menu, audiovisual equipment and a House Host to make sure events are a real crowd pleaser Borrows Menu with often-forgotten items from phone charges to razors A pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs under 50 pounds for an additional nightly fee Free shuttle service to Orlando International Airport “Hyatt House Orlando Airport is everything the name represents – a welcoming and warm environment that encourages guests to live like residents. We want each and every guest who comes through our doors to feel that they can let their real-life routines roll on, even when they’re on the road,” said General Manager Ally Martin. “Whether guests are visiting for a short trip or an extended stay, we know Hyatt House Orlando Airport is the perfect place to offer a personalized hotel experience that will make people feel right at home.”

The numbers are in and it's great news for Orlando International Airport, as the airport's CEO, Kevin Thibault, announced today, Friday, February 3, that for the second time in the airport’s history, the 50 million passenger mark has been shattered. Last year MCO recorded nearly 50.2 million travelers, a 24 percent increase over 2021. With the COVID restrictions surrounding International travel lifted, International traffic increased a massive 184.20 percent with 5,543,168 total passengers.. Domestic passenger traffic increased too, withtraffic volume increasing 16.24 percent with 44,635,331 total travelers at MCO. Combined, overall traffic increased 24.35 percent with a total of 50,178,499 passengers at MCO. “Orlando International Airport saw nearly 10 million more passengers in 2022 than the year before,” says Kevin Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “These numbers validate our strong belief that Terminal C was more than needed to meet projected demand. By continuing to build during the pandemic, we are now well positioned for the future growth and economic expansion of the Central Florida region.” “We find ourselves at the cusp of great possibilities for the future,” said GOAA Chairman Carson Good. “This started with the opening of Terminal C and now we have an even brighter outlook for strong economic growth for our region and state.” Comparison of traffic numbers at MCO during the past 5 years: 2018 47,696,627 2019 50,613,072 2020 21,617,803 2021 40,351,068 2022 50,178,499

As the uncertainty over the future of Walt Disney World’s Reedy Creek continues, the Florida legislature has scheduled a special session to discuss, among other topics, the government takeover of Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District. After months of uncertainty, Florida lawmakers will meet in special session next week to consider a plan to reverse their decision to dissolve Walt Disney World’s special taxing district and instead approve a state board to oversee it. If approved, it would avoid a showdown between Disney and Gov. Ron DeSantis, and resolve an issue that would see Disney at risk of losing the special governing privileges it has held for 55 years. According to memos from Senate President Kathleen Passidomo and House Speaker Paul Renner on Friday, February 3, lawmakers will convene in special session starting Monday, February 6, to consider a state-run board for Disney’s Reedy Creek, as well as several other items legislators are expected to discuss in special session. It is unclear how a state-directed oversight board would work and what kind of financial control or power it would have over Reedy Creek, and Disney. Walt Disney World and new CEO Bob Iger have remained largely silent on the issue, issuing no official statements on the looking uncertainty of Reedy Creek Improvement District. Rumours though, have indicated that Disney have been in talks behind the scenes in an effort to retain the majority of the current RCID structure while allowing DeSantis to claim victory over what he see's as a woke culture at Disney. Ahead of the special session, DeSantis said on Thursday, February 2, that lawmakers would convene next week to “make sure that Disney doesn’t have self-governing status anymore.” The Reedy Creek Improvement District is a special purpose district created by state law in May 1967 that gives The Walt Disney Company governmental control over the land in and around its central Florida theme parks. At the time, the land Walt Disney wanted to build his Kingdom on was little more than uninhabited pasture and swamp, but Orange and Osceola Counties did not have the services or resources needed to bring the project to life, so the state legislature worked with Disney to establish the Reedy Creek Improvement District. This allowed Disney to get the money and resources needed to build Walt Disney World without constantly going through local governments, and turning the pastures and swamps into what we now know as Walt Disney World Resort. Through the act, landowners within the district, including Walt Disney World, are solely responsible for paying the cost of providing municipal services. That is, local taxpayers do not have to pay for these services. The district essentially acts as its own county government and encompasses the cities of Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista. Disney currently has responsibility for providing municipal services like power, water, roads and fire protection – but are freed from dealing with legal red tape or paying taxes for services that benefited the broader public. So will we see a compromise that works for both sides? We thinks so, but right now it's still up in the air, it will be interesting to see what happens next week for sure

A man was arrested Thursday, February 2 at Orlando International Airport after he allegedly made a bomb threat at the airport due to his frustration over airline baggage prices. Police say that an Orlando man who was upset about baggage fees for his Spirit Airlines flight from Orlando International Airport told an airline employee that there was a bomb on the plane, prompting a full search of the plane and the man’s subsequent arrest. According to an arrest affidavit, the man, Danny Curry, 48, and his wife were at the gate at Orlando International Airport for a Spirit flight from Orlando to Pensacola at around 1 pm Thursday. A Spirit Airline employee told police that Curry became upset over the airline's carry-on baggage fees, before making a statement that there was a bomb on the plane. According to Spirit Airline's website, customers pay to board their flights with bags larger than a small backpack and will ask customers to fit their bags into slots to check that no one is attempting to take any oversized items on board for free. Spirit charges $99 for a carry-on bag that is larger than the free carry-on. Officers said Curry’s wife tried to walk back her husband’s statement while a supervisor called 911, but Curry waved her off. According to the arrest affidavit, Curry said to the airline employee "I bet you, everyone on that aircraft is going to deplane, there is a bomb on that aircraft." Curry's wife told the employee that her husband's statement was not true. Curry allegedly replied, "You want me to say it again?" The police were called, and Police, K9 Units, FBI, and TSA agents responded. Passengers were removed from the plane, and a full sweep of the plane and all onboard luggage was made, with no bomb found. Curry claimed to police that he actually said, "What if there was a bomb in that plane," the affidavit states. The man was arrested, and now faces a charge of a false report concerning a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction After the search of the plane, passengers were allowed back on, and the Spirit Airlines flight departed MCO and landed in Pensacola about two hours late. Court records show he was released from jail on a $5,000 bond Friday, February 3. The man's next court date has not been set.

As the uncertainty over the future of Walt Disney World’s Reedy Creek continues, Gov. Ron DeSantis is expecting there to be a special legislative session next week on the future of Walt Disney World’s Reedy Creek Improvement District. DeSantis’ Press Secretary released a statement on Tuesday evening confirming that the Florida Governor “anticipates a special session next week on Reedy Creek and other items.” The Governor’s Press Secretary didn't comment on what the other items would be. DeSantis is focused on a state-controlled version of the special taxing district currently known as the Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID). DeSantis has previously said that he wants Disney to pay the debts of the district despite there being no law requiring them to . Walt Disney World and new CEO Bob Iger have remained largely silent on the issue, issuing no official statements on the crisis facing Reedy Creek Improvement District. Rumours though, have indicated that Disney are in talks behind the scenes in an effort to retain the majority of the current RCID structure while allowing DeSantis to claim victory over what he see's as a woke culture at Disney. The Reedy Creek Improvement District is a special purpose district created by state law in May 1967 that gives The Walt Disney Company governmental control over the land in and around its central Florida theme parks. At the time, the land Walt Disney wanted to build his Kingdom on was little more than uninhabited pasture and swamp, but Orange and Osceola Counties did not have the services or resources needed to bring the project to life, so the state legislature worked with Disney to establish the Reedy Creek Improvement District. This allowed Disney to get the money and resources needed to build Walt Disney World without constantly going through local governments, and turning the pastures and swamps into what we now know as Walt Disney World Resort. Through the act, landowners within the district, including Walt Disney World, are solely responsible for paying the cost of providing municipal services. That is, local taxpayers do not have to pay for these services. The district essentially acts as its own county government and encompasses the cities of Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista. Disney currently has responsibility for providing municipal services like power, water, roads and fire protection – but are freed from dealing with legal red tape or paying taxes for services that benefited the broader public, until now that is.

The BIG Salsa Festival is a three-day Latin event featuring some of the greatest names in performing arts and music, and it's taking place right here in Orlando at The Hyatt Regency Orlando on International Drive from February 24, 27, 2023. Each day at The BIG Salsa Festival will be packed with dance classes, amazing performances, and latin dance parties into the early morning hours. Organizers say that if you've always wanted to learn how to dance, or you are looking to improve and advance your techniques, this is the perfect opportunity. Orlando's BIG Salsa Festival will be offering classes for beginners, challenges for the advanced, and everything in between. Organizers will be releasing the entertainment schedule soon, and which artists will be performing during the festival, and when they do we will bring you the latest right here at Gotta Go Orlando.

The next time you decide on a beach day to Orlando's closest beach - Cocoa Beach, make sure you visit the new Visitor Information Center that has recently opened. As tourist numbers continue to climb, and demand for information on Cocoa Beach and the surrounding areas, the Space Coast Office of Tourism made the decision to open a new visitor center in Cocoa Beach. The space soft-opened last October to serve visitors and residents seeking information about attractions, events, and more in the area, and now the location is fully open. The Visitor Information Center is currently open Monday through Friday, 10 am - 6 pm (closed for lunch from 1 - 2.) “The new Visitor Information Center will not only be a place for tourists and residents alike to ask questions and pick up brochures about local attractions but will be designed to be a place to spark curiosity and interest in the Space Coast,” says Peter Cranis, Executive Director. “The mural, painted by local artist Lyssa Wyn of Barefoot and Doodles, will be the perfect place for the first selfie of a vacation or for guests to create their very own ‘wish you were here’ style photo.” In addition to the mural, the Visitor Information Center will have an exhibit space with displays and artifacts on temporary loan from local museums and attractions. The first display comes from Brevard Zoo and will include a crocodile skull, giraffe skull & vertebrae, and other artifacts.

Unfortunately, just in time for the weekend, a cold front is pushing into Central Florida, brining colder temperatures, gusty wind, and increased rain chances, forcing Universal Orland to close it's water park early! Universal Orlando Resort have announced that Volcano Bay, the resorts water park will close today, February 3, at 2 pm. The water parks currently scheduled to reopen tomorrow at 10 am.

Performers from around the world, including Argentina, Brazil, and Romania are showing off their skills and talents at Cirque Italia’s Water Circus in a series of shows this weekend in Ocala. The show is described as a 1950′s themed circus with a unique water stage, the only circus to be performing within a water stage in the country! Incredible artists are wowing audiences, young and old with their astounding acts. Master jugglers, low wire fanatics, dazzling contortion, wild trampoline antics, and even a wheel of death! Cirque Italia’s entertainment suitable for all age groups, where all are welcome at a strictly animal-free shows! The circus has pitched it's stunning white and blue big top tent at: 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd, Ocala, at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. Cirque Italia are only performing in Ocala this weekend, February 2 - 5, 2023 Showtimes are: February 3 – Friday: 7:30 pm February 4 – Saturday: 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm February 5 – Sunday: 1:30pm & 4:30pm For more information, visit www.cirqueitalia.com. Tickets start at $10.00 -$50.00 depending on availability. Cirque Italia offers one free child admission with every full priced paying adult ticket in levels 2 or 3. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts, or deals. Please call 941-704-8572 to get the promo code for your location.

Welcome to another jam packed GGO Weekend Guide with an exciting lineup of things to do right here in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. This weekend's highlights include the kick off weekend of this year's Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Orlando, and over at SeaWorld Orlando you'll discover the opening weekend of the popular Seven Seas Festival. Wicked continues at Dr Phillips Center throughout the weekend, and Sunday sees Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band perform at the Amway Center for the first time! Discover the BEST Things to Do in Orlando This Weekend! Check out our bumper weekend list with something happening for everyone 2023 Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval Universal Studios Florida February 4, 2023 through April 16, 2023 Every spring, the fun and excitement of the Big Easy makes its way to Universal Orlando Resort for an authentic celebration that completely transforms Universal Studios Florida into a family-friendly version of the famed New Orleans street party. Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run from from February 4, 2023, through April 16, 2023. The parkwide celebrations will transform Universal Studios Florida into Florida’s biggest party, complete with the return of the parade, the beads, the tribute store, the food, and the big name concerts. The 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Happening now through Sunday, February 20, 2023 Eat, drink and be dazzled by creative culinary masterpieces during the 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T. Celebrate the visual arts, performing arts and culinary arts during an art festival that features more than 100 Disney and visiting artists that are showcasing their eye-catching works of art. Guests of all ages can express their creative side by learning to draw a Disney character at Animation Academy, leaving their own creative mark at Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural and helping Figment learn about art on a scavenger hunt around World Showcase. Each evening, the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series will feature talented entertainers performing Disney songs live at America Gardens Theatre. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is available with valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same date. The Disney On Broadway Concert Series Happening now through Sunday, February 20, 2023 The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is returning for the 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T, This is where you can see some of your favorite Disney Broadway stars perform Disney musical numbers, live at America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase. This weekends performers: February 3 Patti Murin (Frozen) and Robert Creighton (The Little Mermaid) February 4 Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King) February 5 Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King) The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is available with valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same date. The 2023 SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival February 3, 2023 through May 7, 2023 Oceans of flavor and fun are waiting at SeaWorld. From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct offerings. Explore more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 refreshing wine and cocktail selections, including more than 75 craft brews. Add a taste of rock, country, Latin, or throwback sounds at our live music shows, and enjoy even more diverse entertainment and surprises at special times like Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo. With so many exquisite flavors to top off exhilarating coasters and extraordinary animal encounters, the Seven Seas Food Festival is a voyage to fill the belly! Available with valid theme park admission Mardi Gras At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Happening now through Sunday, March 5, 2023 Get jazzed up with Mardi Gras-style live music and New Orleans-inspired entertainment. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday though March 5, 2023 at Busch Gardens Mardi Gras. Catch some festival beads from strolling performers throughout the day, and get caught up in the fun as you dance through the park. Feast like kings and queens on classic Cajun cuisine as Busch Gardens brings the “Big Easy” to Tampa Bay. Mardi Gras At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is available with valid theme park admission. Elmo's Birthday Celebration at SeaWorld Orlando Now through Friday, February 3, 2023 Celebrate Elmo’s Birthday daily until February 3, with meet-and-greets, a family-friendly DJ, photo opportunities with your favorite furry friends, and even more surprises in select locations around Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld! This event is included with your park admission. fun-filled weekend with hands-on activities, character photo opportunities, and more. This family-friendly celebration is located in Sesame Street Land and is included with park admission. Wicked at Dr Phillips Center Happening now through February 12, 2023 Wicked is happening now at the Walt Disney Theater at Dr Phillips Center through until February 12, 2023. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships … until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “Wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked—the untold true story of the Witches of Oz—transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story that USA Today cheers is “a complete triumph! Limited tickets are available now, check out the Dr Phillips Center website for details. Carrie: The Musical at the Fringe ArtSpace Now through February 5, 2023 CARRIE The Musical is a thrilling and engaging retelling of Stephen King’s classic novel Carrie. It tells the story of Carrie White, a teenager from a small town in New England, who is relentlessly bullied at school for being different and is harshly controlled at home by her fanatical mother. It’s gonna be “a night you’ll never forget.” Tickets available here. Henry V presented by The Orlando Shakes Weekly, Wednesday - Sunday until February 5, 2023 The latest Orlando Shakes production, Henry V takes to the stage until February 5, 2023 at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater. In this exciting continuation of the Fire and Reign Series, King Henry IV is dead and Prince Hal, fresh to the throne, attempts to prove himself a worthy ruler by brazenly laying claim to parts of France. When France mocks his claim, he leads the English forces across the Channel. Now this inexperienced new ruler must prove he is fit to unite his country and defeat the French at the Battle of Agincourt – against all odds. Don’t miss this epic, thrilling, and powerful conclusion to the rise of Henry V – packed with battles, betrayals, comedy, and love! Nunsense A-Men! at The Winter Park Playhouse Happening now through February 18, 2023 This side-splitting musical comedy performed at The Winter Park Playhouse is the original Off-Broadway musical Nunsense with all the characters portrayed by men! Think of it as "Mrs. Doubtfire enters the Convent." The Little Sisters of Hoboken discover their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters so they put on a variety show to raise funds for the burials. Get tickets now! Suitable for Most Audiences (Age 13 & up) Dave Mason & Justin Hayward at Plaza Live Friday, February 3, 2023 Don't miss Dave Mason and Justin Hayward LIVE in Orlando! Dave Mason left Traffic in 1969 to pursue a solo career in the U.S. Dave has penned over 100 songs. Dave, a prolific artist in his own right, has collaborated with an enviable list of the who’s who in the music industry... Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, Rita Coolidge, Delaney & Bonnie, Leon Russell, Ron Wood, Steve Winwood, Eric Clapton, and Jim Capaldi, just to name a few. Justin Hayward is an English musician best known as the lead singer, songwriter and guitarist of the rock band the Moody Blues. Hayward became the group's principal lead guitarist and vocalist over the 1967–1974 period, and the most prolific songwriter and composer of several international hit singles for the band. Tickets and info here! Emotional Roller Coaster: Love Letter to Life Friday, February 3, 2023 In honor of Black History Month, onePULSE Foundation is partnering with the Orange County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative and Bethune-Cookman University to present a special performance of the original readers theater piece, “Emotional Rollercoaster: Love Letter to Life,” on Friday, Feb. 3 from 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Orlando Repertory Theatre’s Black Box (1001 E. Princeton Street). The free event will also include a chat-back session with the young performers hosted by Star 94.5 radio host Monica May as well as complimentary authentic African American cuisine. Heart Skate at Wave Hotel Parking Garage Friday, February 3, 2023 Lake Nona has partnered with renowned artist Jefrë and the American Heart Association to kick off American Heart Month! Let’s paint the town red and roll into American Heart Month together with skating, music, food and non-stop fun at Heart Skate, happening in the Wave Hotel Garage on February 3! AHA Heart Skate will feature a celebrity guest DJ as well as other live entertainment and a cash bar. To enter the event, you must purchase a ticket. This event is for 18+, and proof of valid ID is required. Art After Dark in Lake Nona Friday, February 3, 2023 Every Friday night, Art After Dark takes over Lake Nona Town Center. Perfectly nestled between Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen and Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine of Lake Nona, Art After Dark is a perfect evening out for the whole family. Enjoy a stroll through our Town Center as you explore hand crafted artisan products, and tasty cuisine. Be sure to grab a glass a wine, stay a while to enjoy the art displayed on the six story art installation, The Beacon. This three hour event kicks off at 6 PM and is open to the public. Kenny Wayne Shepherd: Trouble Is... 25th Anniversary Tour with Samantha Fish Friday, February 3, 2023 Kenny Wayne Shepherd comes to Hard Rock Live Orlando. Tickets on sale now! There are few artists whose names are synonymous with one instrument and how it's played in service to an entire genre. Utter the phrase "young blues rock guitarist" within earshot of anyone with even a cursory knowledge of the modern musical vanguard and the first name they are most likely to respond with will be Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The Louisiana born axeman and songsmith has sold millions of albums while throwing singles into the Top 10, shining a light on the rich blues of the past and forging ahead with his own modern twist on a classic sound he has embodied since his teens. Leu Gardens Movie Night: Mr Deeds Goes To Town Friday, February 3, 2023 Enjoy an outdoor movie in Orlando’s most beautiful garden. Pack a dinner picnic basket and seating, alcohol is permitted. This movie is not rated, children under 13 years of age require accompanying parent or adult guardian, weather permitting. Tickets only available online. Orlando Pokemon Regional Championship Friday, February 3 until Sunday, February 5, 2023 The 2022-23 Pokémon Championship series, leading to the Pokémon World Championships in Yokohama, Japan, is currently underway and its next stop in North America is the Orange County Convention Center, Competitors compete for up to $65,000 in prizes, scholarships and gift cards as well coveted Championship Points for an invitation to the World Championship. In addition to championship tournaments, there will be Side Events for all ages and skill levels, First Step (learn to play) Retro Pokémon video games, live stream, vendors and a Japanese artist who has created over 500 Pokémon cards! For more information or to register as a player or spectator, visit www.overload-events.com. An Intimate Evening With David Foster & Katharine McPhee at Dr Phillips Center Friday, February 3, 2023 16-time Grammy Award-winning musician, composer and producer David Foster and acclaimed singer, television and Broadway star Katharine McPhee are bringing their viral Instagram show on the road, and will be taking to the stage at Dr Phillips Center, get tickets now. Coming directly from the living room to the stage, this intimate show with the powerhouse duo will be packed with Foster’s hits from Chicago, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé and more, along with McPhee’s biggest songs from American Idol, Smash and Waitress—plus some of their personal favorites! TobyMac Hits Deep Tour at Amway Center Friday, February 3, 2023 TobyMac Hits Deep Tour is the unique idea of Christian music icon TobyMac. The heart behind Hits Deep is to bring music to the people with a diverse lineup of artists who have a hit songs on the radio and also songs, which hit deep into the heart of fans across the country. With a decade of history, Hits Deep has become one of the largest and highly-anticipated annual events in the Christian music genre impacting tens of thousands of people each year. Get tickets now. The R&B Renaissance at The Abbey Friday, February 3, 2023 R&B is one of the most celebrated and meaningful forms of music of the entire 20th century. In recent years the art form has gone through a transition which has seen it experience a sharp decline in popularity. At the R&B Renaissance some of the most gifted singers from Central Florida will be reigniting the flame while walking us back down memory lane to experience some of the most soul stirring sounds from the genre. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the R&B Renaissance! Get tickets here. Rock Of Ages at Garden Theatre, Winter Garden Happening now through Sunday, February 26, 2023 ROCK OF AGES takes you back to the time of big bands with big egos playing big guitar solos, and sporting even bigger hair! This five-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical features the hits of bands Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, and more. The show features an all-star cast, including American Idol Bo Bice, The Voice finalist Omar Cardona, and Broadway star Justin Sargent. Info and tickets. Pirate Fest Weekends at LEGOLAND Florida Resort Saturdays & Sundays until February 19, 2023 Captain Redbeard returns ashore from his adventures to recruit the best of the best in the latest class of pirates. His ultimate mission: take over LEGOLAND Theme Park to bury his treasure. Join the pirate invasion fun with exclusive LEGO characters meet-and-greets, pirate-themed shows, LEGO build activities, and more! Pirate Fest Weekends is included with Daily Tickets and select Annual Passes. Free Family Movie Night at Aquatica Beach Nights - SING Saturday, January 28, 2023 Free family movies are back at Aquatic Water Park this January and February. The whole family can enjoy fun days and nights at SeaWorld Orlando’s Aquatica Beach Nights. Saturday, February 4 Movie at 5:45 pm Sing From thrilling slides like Riptide Race to relaxing waterways like Loggerhead Lane and more, Aquatica has 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.” After 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. Mount Dora Arts Festival Saturday, February 4 & Sunday, February 5, 2023 The 48th annual Mount Dora Arts Festival will be held on the streets of historic downtown Mount Dora, Florida. Experience more than 250 fine artists lined along the streets to showcase a vast array of incredible talent in this juried event. There will be a kid zone, beer, wine, cocktails, music and festival food to round out the amazing weekend. The event runs 9am-5pm on Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday and is FREE to attend. Celebrate Lunar Festival at XL Soccer World Lake Nona Saturday, February 4, 2023 This cultural event boasts many unique features: traditional lion dancing, live music, Tai Chi demonstration, taiko drums, K-pop dance, kids carnival games, live DJ, a traditional gown fashion show featuring Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean attire, tasty Asian food, talented market vendors, kung fu/taekwondo performers… and so much more! Check out the official website for details The Brevard Renaissance Fair - Celtic Weekend Saturday, February 4 & Sunday, February 5, 2023 The Brevard Renaissance Fair returns with the Celtic Weekend! Fire up the pipes and tune the fiddle, for this weekend belongs to the Celts. Let Cu Dubh and The Jackdaws take you on a musical journey of rebellion and reminiscence, drink a pint or two, and perhaps show off your knees and well turned calves at our “Bonnie Knees Kilt Contest”. With over 100 stage shows daily, varieties of foods and treats, and numerous artisan merchants with handcrafted wares, the Brevard Renaissance Fair invites guests to immerse themselves in a unique experience of history and fantasy! Highly Suspect Presented By WJRR Saturday, February 4, 2023 Highly Suspect presented by WJRR comes to House of Blues Orlando. Get your tickets now! Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour Saturday, February 4 , 2023 Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour comes to Hard Rock Live. Tickets on sale now! Taco and Margarita Festival Camping World Stadium Saturday, February 4 , 2023 The Orlando Taco and Margarita Festival comes to Camping World Stadium on Saturday, February 4 with big, bold flavors for all to enjoy. The're partnering with several popular, local taquerias, restaurants and food trucks to offer innovative taco options and exciting sampling opportunities. Get ready for live music, live wrestling, taco-eating competitions, carnival games and so much more! Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band at Amway Center Sunday, February 5, 2023 Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band kick off their 2023 international tour with 31 performances across the United States spanning from February 1 in Tampa, FL through an April 14 homecoming in Newark, New Jersey before heading to Europe. The shows mark Springsteen and The E Street Band's first tour dates since February 2017, and their first in North America since September 2016. Springsteen and The E Street Band make their debut performance at Orlando's Amway Center on Sunday, February 5, 2023. Orlando Area Farmers Markets Saturday, February 4 , 2023 Every weekend there are some awesome farmers markets happening throughout the area, Winter Garden Farmers Market The Winter Garden Farmers Market is your hometown market open every Saturday from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. in beautiful Historic Winter Garden. Winter Park Farmer's Market The Saturday Farmers’ Market is one of the best produce and plant markets in central Florida which takes place every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Central Park. Lake Mary Farmer's Market The Lake Mary Farmers Market features local vendors of produce, plants, baked goods, and arts and crafts. The market is open every Saturday, from 9am-1:30pm at Lake Mary City Hall. City of Longwood Farmer's Market Visit every Saturday at the City of Longwood Farmer's Market at Reiter Park from 9 am to 2 pm, with locally sourced seafood and produce to handmade crafts and more. Lake Nona Farmers Market Join in every Saturday morning in Lake Nona in the beautiful Town Center from 11 am - 3 pm, shop local with the freshest produce and more. Orlando Area Farmers Markets Sunday, February 5, 2023 Every weekend there are some awesome farmers markets happening throughout the area, Orlando Farmers Market at Lake Eola Park One of the most popular farmers markets in Central Florida, Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of Orlando at Lake Eola park, and takes place Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebration Farmers Market Every week at Celebration Farmers Market there are multiple vendors here selling everything from fresh food and produce, to local crafted jewelry, and much more, with a beautiful backdrop of Lakeside Park, this is a must go to farmers market on Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m East Orlando Farmer's Market The popular East Orlando Farmers Market offers hand selected produce, creative local small business owners, along with botanical varieties to chose from. Every Sunday 11 am - 4 pm. Clermont Farmer's Market Clermont Farmer's Market features over 60 vendors selling seafood, organic produce, and other household items, this popular market is the place to go on Sundays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Downtown Mount Dora Village Market Mount Dora’s open-air Mount Dora Village Market in Sunset Park is open Sundays from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm offering fresh products from over 50 market vendors.

Ormond Beach MainStreet and the Ormond Beach Arts District is hosting the 9th annual Granada Grand Festival of the Arts this weekend. On Saturday, February 4, from 10 am until 4 pm, The Granada Grand Festival of the Arts will offer a generous helping of all things art, from visual artists and art demonstrations to musical performances and hands-on activities for the whole family. More than 5,000 visitors are expected to wander around the festival, where over 80 artists will gather along New Britain Avenue from Beach Street to Ridgewood Avenue. Interact with select artists as they conduct live demonstrations of their technique, then snag something unique from one of over 80 exhibitors selling their handcrafted pieces, the majority of whom reside in Volusia County. Even the smallest art-lover will stay entertained in the kid’s zone, with fun art projects, games, face painting, and a bouncy house. Visit the Young Artists tent where local students ages 6 – 18 will be displaying their work for sale alongside local art teacher, Pat Spano. It’s a chance for these select young artists to be an active part of the local art scene, and to find out more about the life of a working artist. Here you’ll also find a mini art studio where Pat and the young artists will help children create a masterpiece of their own. Pick your medium! For those who want to learn more about how to DIY, artists will be offering live demonstrations all around the Festival. Woodworking, pottery, broom making, spray art, calligraphy, sand art, and classic painting skills will all be on display. An updated schedule of Festival events and a parking map are available on Facebook and at ormondbeachmainstreet.com.

Explore African American influence and culture throughout Orlando during Black History Month. There is special events and happenings throughout February for locals and visitors to experience here in Orlando that will celebrate African American culture and history. Black History Month 2023 Events & Exhibits In Orlando Black History Month Art Exhibition Now through Sunday, April 30, 2023 The City of Orlando's Black History Month Art Exhibition celebrates the creativity and cultural heritage of Black visual artists. Featuring local visual artists in a variety of mediums, the new “Black Resistance” exhibit recognizes how African Americans have fought repression and inspired folks to participate in civil rights and racial equity movements. Orlando City Hall - Terrace Gallery, 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando. The Story Quilters of Hannibal Square Now through Sunday, April 29, 2023 The Hannibal Square Heritage Center in Winter Park pays tribute to past, present and future contributions of Winter Park’s historic African American community though museum-quality exhibitions, festivals and gallery talks. In addition to the award-winning, 200-piece Heritage Collection: Photographs and Oral Histories of West Winter Park, the Heritage Center is hosting The Story Quilters of Hannibal Square. The exhibit features exquisite storytelling quilts and artist reflections on the Black experience, spirituality, justice, femininity, family and nature. It’s free to visit, and you can even take a free group story quilting class with Lauren Austin, founder of The Hannibal Square Story Quilters, in partnership with the Crealdé School of Art. City of Orlando's Dedication of Luminaries Friday, February 3, 2023 Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and District 5 Commissioner Regina I. Hill invite you to the Dedication of Luminaries. Join them as they light the first 12 luminary memorials installed to honor the life and legacy of community leaders who made the Parramore neighborhood a better, brighter place. Dedication of Luminaries, Luminary Green Park, 437 Terry Street, Orlando. 5.45 pm Orange County Library System's African American Read-In Sunday, February 5, 2023 Celebrate African American literature in poetry, story and song performed by local luminaries in conjunction with the 33rd Annual National African American Read-In, at Orlando Public Library. U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, WMFE host Talia Blake, Grammy-nominated songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nkosinathi “Nathi” Gcabashe, Nerd Nite Orlando host Ricardo Williams, WFTV Channel 9 anchor Daralene Jones, XL 106.7 host Johnny Magic and WESH 2 News anchor Summer Knowles will share African American literature in poetry, story and song. City of Orlando’s Black History Month Proclamation Presentation Sunday, February 5, 2023 Mayor Buddy Dyer and the City Commissioners will join the Black History Month (BHM) Planning Committee in the reading of the city’s Proclamation to officially proclaim February as Black History Month in the City of Orlando. In addition, the BHM Planning Committee and sponsors will be recognized for helping to coordinate, promote, and support a variety of events that celebrates the rich and diverse culture of Black heritage. City of Orlando’s Black History Month Proclamation Presentation Orlando City Hall, Council Chambers, 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, 2 pm. City of Orlando’s Black History Month Signature Event Wednesday, February 8, 2023 Join the City of Orlando for their annual Black History Month Signature Event celebrating the remarkable contributions and positive influence of Black Americans in the Central Florida community. This free event will also include a keynote address from Jasmine Burney-Clark, Founder of Equal Ground Education Fund and Action Fund, the City of Orlando’s Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome, live entertainment by local performers, music by DJ Dalastmo, and delicious food! City of Orlando’s Black History Month Signature Event Camping World Stadium - West Lounge, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, 6pm Voices of Freedom: An Evening of Spoken Word Friday, February 10, 2023 In downtown Orlando, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts invites the entire Central Florida community and its visitors to experience the Freedom Series, which celebrates African American artists and showcasing diverse performing arts. It kicks off with Voices of Freedom: An Evening of Spoken Word, hosted by City of Orlando Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome. Black History Walking Tour Friday, February 10, 2023 The second annual Black History Walking Tour will take place in the Parramore neighborhood of downtown Orlando beginning at 2 p.m. During the hour-long tour, a guide will share all about Orlando's rich Black history while viewing various historic sites, including the inside of the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture. Crafternoons: Celebrate Black History Month Wednesday, February 15, 2023 Learn how to create new crafts in celebration of Black History Month in this creative and collaborative crafting event. Recommended for ages 6 through 8. Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, 4pm. Samone Hicks and Rose Grace's "Songs of Hope and Inspiration" Friday, February 17, 2023 Celebrate Black History Month with Samone Hicks, soprano, and Rose Grace, pianist, at Timucua Arts Foundation, an intimate 100-seat concert hall nestled in downtown Orlando’s SoDo District. Share a bottle of wine as the duo perform Songs of Hope and Inspiration, featuring art song cycles from Black composers including Nkeiru Okoye, Undine Smith Moore, Florence Price, Adolphus Hailstork and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. Orlando's 8th Annual MLK Concert Saturday, February 18, 2023 Produced and directed by Grammy Award-winner Dr. Jeffrey Redding, the Orlando's 8th Annual MLK Concert produced and directed by Grammy Award Winner, Dr. Jeffrey Redding. Hosted at Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando, this event offers an incredible opportunity to hear live music inside one of the world’s most acoustically perfect spaces in exchange for non-perishable food donations. The Orange County Regional History Center Celebrating Black Arts and Culture Saturday, February 18, 2023 Orange County Regional History Center honors Black History Month with a celebration of Black history, arts and culture in Central Florida. This free event will offer fun learning opportunities for the whole family, including hands-on activities, living-history presentations, and exciting guests! Performances include readings by members of the youth empowerment group Page 15 and by award-winning Central Florida historian and poet Valada Flewellyn. Children’s activities include making airplanes, inspired by pioneering pilot Bessie Coleman, a ring-toss inspired by ranching legend Lawrence Silas, and more. Lakeland's Black History Festival Saturday, February 18, 2023 Join the City of Lakeland as we celebrate Black History Month at the Black History Festival in Jackson Park with various artisan vendors, kids' activities, food trucks, and entertainment. Look forward to outstanding dance performances by Crystals World of Dance, bounce houses for the little ones, and an opportunity to interact with neighborhood associations. This year, be sure to venture inside the Coleman-Bush Building to check out a neighborhood history walk featuring information on some of the pioneers of Lakeland's black community provided by the Lakeland History and Culture Center. The 4th Annual 1619 Fest Orlando Saturday, February 18, and Sunday, February 19, 2023 Orlando's Fourth Annual 1619 Fest kicks off with Saturday's Rebel Run 5K at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, with a path through the historic African American community of Hannibal Square. There will also be two days' filled with festivities and live music. Sanford Jazz Ensemble: Salute to Black History Month Sunday, February 19, 2023 Get up and dance to classic jazz, Motown and DooWop at this year's Black History Month Concert by the Sanford Jazz Ensemble. Held at the historic Ritz Theater in Sanford, this toe-tapping event celebrates acclaimed African American musicians like Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Thelonious Monk, with medleys by Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and The Four Tops. What’s Up Downtown Parramore Historic Bus Trolley Tour Thursday, February 23, 2023 Join the City of Orlando in celebrating Black History Month in February and the positive contributions, culture, and heritage of our African American residents. On Thursday, February 23, take a step back in history as we board a trolley for a historic tour! The conductor for the event will be none other than the tour creator herself - Jennifer Campbell, Art Director and Graphic Designer of Dancing Fish Design. Tour must be booked in advance. 9.15 am or 11.30 am. Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, 511 West South Street, Orlando. Black History Month Fair Housing Fair Saturday, February 25, 2023 The City of Orlando’s Office of Human Relations presents a 2023 HUD sponsored Fair Housing Fair with the theme: “Fair Housing is Black History.” This free event offers members of the Orlando community opportunities to learn more about the City of Orlando’s Chapter 57 Ordinance and discrimination protections under the Fair Housing Act. Members can visit the “Fair Booths” of local community organizations, attend pre-registered Fair Housing training sessions, courtesy of Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida, Inc., and Florida Legal Services; play games, win prizes, and enjoy food, music, and a kid zone. Primrose Center, 595 North Primrose Drive, Orlando, 12 pm. Kevin Harris' Joy-Filled Noise: A Musical Celebration of Black History Sunday, February 26, 2023 Music director Kevin Harris leads a vocal and instrumental ensemble of some of the region’s top talent in a survey of Black American music, from the South African hymn "Siyahamba" to African American spirituals, jazz, blues and gospel songs old and new. Celebrate Black history at Timucua Arts Foundation with music director Kevin Harris, who will lead a vocal and instrumental ensemble of some of the region’s top talent in a survey of Black American Music, from the South African hymn Siyahamba, to African American Spirituals, Jazz, Blues, and Gospel songs old and new. Expect original arrangements, stirring performances and stellar harmonies at Joy-Filled Noise: A Musical Celebration of Black History.