Orlando?s Summer and Fall Special Events & Festivals
ORLANDO, Fla. ? Orlando is known for offering visitors the opportunity to visit one-of-a-kind attractions, but the destination also gives visitors the chance to attend unique festivals and special events. The following list highlights some of Central Florida?s varied annual festivals and special events throughout the summer and fall*. More information is available on Orlando?s online calendar at VisitOrlando.com ( http://www.visitorlando.com ) .
JULY
Independence Day Bash at Baldwin Park
July 1
Baldwin Park Home Owners Association and Joints Committee host the 3rd annual Fourth of July celebration in downtown Baldwin Park. The event, which will be held from 6 ? 9 p.m., will include street vendors, live performances from Jason Bruce and Room 2 band, and a fireworks show. Admission: Free.
407-745-9345
Red Hot & Boom
July 3
Held at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte, Red Hot & Boom is an Independence Day celebration that features live entertainment by XL106.7 Radio, children’s activities, vendor booths, food, drinks and a 25-minute fireworks display, synchronized with a mix of patriotic and today’s musical hits. Admission: Free.
uptownaltamonte.com ( http://www.uptownaltamonte.com ) 407-571-8180
Independence Day at SeaWorld Orlando
July 4
As part of SeaWorld Orlando?s Summer Nights, aspecial Fourth of July Reflections show will feature an expanded fireworks show timed to patriotic music. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
seaworldorlando.com ( http://www.seaworldorlando.com/orlando/default.aspx ) 407-351-3600
Independence Day at Universal Orlando Resort
July 4
Guests can enjoy a special version of the popular Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular, a cinematic adventure that combines cutting-edge projection technology with lasers and pyrotechnics to bring movies to life like never before. Admission: Included in regular park admission to Universal Studios Florida.
universalorlando.com ( http://www.universalorlando.com ) 407-224-4233
Independence Day at Walt Disney World Resort
July 4
?Disney?s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky? at Magic Kingdom will start at 9 p.m. The holiday-inspired ?IllumiNations: Reflections of the Earth? at Epcot will start at 10 p.m., and a special July 4th fireworks presentation at Disney?s Hollywood Studios will start at 10 p.m. Admission: Included in regular park admission. disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
Fireworks at the Fountain
July 4
Celebrate United States? independence at the free fireworks display and laser show around Lake Eola in downtown Orlando. Pack picnic baskets and comfy blankets for an old-fashioned summertime picnic at downtown Orlando?s Lake Eola from 4 ? 10 p.m. Admission: Free.
cityoforlando.net ( http://www.cityoforlando.net ) 407-246-2121
Celebration Town Center?s ?A Flashback 4th of July?
July 4
Revel freedom on July 4th at the Celebration Town Center?s ?A Flashback 4th of July? with unique fireworks and an event centered around ?A Salute to Cinema,? beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event features a synchronized fireworks spectacular set to a movie theme, bounce houses for kids, live music and more. Guests who come dressed as their favorite movie character will be eligible for prizes. Free Park and Ride Shuttle will be available. Admission: Free.
celebrationtowncenter.com ( http://www.celebrationtowncenter.com ) 407-566-4015
Coke Zero 400
July 7
This series has been an Independence Day weekend tradition for nearly five decades. Kevin Harvick will defend his title in the 160-lap, 400-mile holiday weekend classic that will feature fireworks on and off the track at Daytona International Speedway. Admission: Varies.
daytonainternationalspeedway.com ( http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com ) 386-253-7223
Ascendio (Harry Potter Fancon)
July 12-15
Ascendio takes place at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. This weekend event will incorporate three distinct Harry Potter fan events: Night of a Thousand Wizards private event at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on July 12, a Quill Track with agents from New York City and Wizard Rock. Joining Ascendio are two Harry Potter films cast members: Chris Rankin (Percy Weasley) and Afshan Azad (Padma Patil). The fancon has sessions covering a wide variety of topics from Harry and the Law to Snape?s Redemption to how Mythology is used in the series There?s everything from live Quidditch to fanfilm showings, numerous crafting sessions, programs for writers who are looking to meet possible publishers and more. Admission: Varies.
hp2012.org ( http://hp2012.org )
6th Annual Target Family Theatre Festival
July 22-31
Held at the Orlando Repertory Theatre and Loch Haven Park, the Target Family Theatre Festival features a variety of family-friendly and affordable shows. Admission: Free.
orlandorep.com ( http://www.orlandorep.com ) 407-896-7365
AUGUST
Star Wars Celebration VI
August 23 ? 26
The Force stays strong in Orlando with this four-day event, held at the Orange County Convention Center. This fan festival commemorates the magic of the entire Star Wars saga and is a great option for Jedi?s big or small. The convention includes celebrity guests, Star Wars experts, workshops, fan costumes, exhibits and more.
starwarscelebration.com ( http://www.starwarscelebration.com ) 888-334-8719
Red Chair Affair
Aug. 25
Held at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, the 8th Annual Red Chair Affair kicks off the Orlando cultural season. The event features performances and entertainment by Central Florida?s cultural community. Admission: Varies.
redchairproject.com ( http://www.redchairproject.com ) 407-872-2382
SEPTEMBER
Visit Orlando?s Magical Dining Month
Sept. 1 – 30
Satisfy cravings for haute cuisine at an even hotter price during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, a culinary celebration sure to please diner?s palates and wallets. For an entire month, Central Florida’s best restaurants will feature three-course, prix fixe dinner menus for just $30. For each entrée sold, $1 will be donated to Edgewood Children?s Ranch, which provides residential and counseling services for children.
OrlandoMagicalDining.com ( http://www.orlandomagicaldining.com ) 407-363-5872
MEAC/SWAC Challenge
Sept. 2
The 8th annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney, featuring MEAC?s Bethune-Cookman against Prairie View A&M (SWAC), will be held at Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. The annual event, which features teams from two prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities conferences, will air on ESPN at noon. Admission starts at $32.75.
meacswacchallenge.com ( http://www.meacswacchallenge.com ) 757-416-7116; 205-241-3468
Orlando?s Faith and Fun Weekend
Sept. 7 – 8
Walt Disney World Resort?s Night of Joy and Universal Orlando Resort?s Rock the Universe events feature some of the top Christian music stars from across the nation. Admission for Rock The Universe at Universal Studios or Night of Joy at Magic Kingdom is $52.95 for advance tickets and $62.95 for same-day purchase. Two-night tickets and group rates are available.
disneyworld.com ( http://disneyworld.disney.go.com ) 407-824-4321
rocktheuniverse.com ( http://www.rocktheuniverse.com ) ; 407-363-8000
soaked
Sept. 7 – 8
Dive into waves of fun during soaked, a new two-day extreme water sports festival held in the world capital of water skiing. With family-friendly entertainment, extreme sports, live music, and car shows, there?s no shortage of fun at this event held at downtown Orlando?s Lake Eola. Watch world champion water skiers compete in slalom and jump competitions for a grand prize of $100,000, the largest purse ever given in the sport. Admission is $10 on Friday, $15 on Saturday, or $20 for a weekend pass. VIP Packages with food and beverages are available.
soakedorlando.com ( http://www.soakedorlando.com ) 407-354-5586
Fashion Week at The Mall at Millenia
Sept. 6-13
See designer runway shows and a sneak preview of spring 2012?s hottest fashion trends straight from international runways right here in Central Florida. Fashion followers will find more fun than they can fit inside a designer bag with a week-long series of in-store events, such as trunk shows and champagne receptions. Admission to runway show: free.
mallatmillenia.com ( http://www.mallatmillenia.com ) 407-363-3555
Fiesta del Coquí
Sept. 16
The annual ?Fiesta del Coquí? at the Central Florida Zoo, lets guests party with the coquí and enjoy live music; crafts and activities; demonstrations and much more to celebrate Hispanic culture. Visitors can enjoy fabulous regional cuisines, dance to the sounds of local bands and be entertained by local dance groups. Admission: Included in regular admission.
centralfloridazoo.org ( http://www.centralfloridazoo.org ) 407-323-4450
10th Annual Global Peace Film Festival
Sept. 18 – 23
Guests can celebrate the art of film and its power to promote new understanding in Orlando. Held in conjunction with the UN?s International Day of Peace, the festival promotes the art of motion picture to further the goal of peace on earth, beyond anti-war, ideology and activism. Events include film programs, panels and parties. Admission: Varies.
peacefilmfest.org ( http://www.peacefilmfest.org ) 407-224-6625
Inaugural Kissimmee Festival of Festivals
Sept. 21 ? 23
The inaugural Kissimmee Festival of Festivals is a three-day event featuring hot air balloons from around the world, races, arts and crafts and music. More than 50 balloons will take to the Central Florida sky with mass ascensions throughout the festival. In addition to the breathtaking views, festival-goers can experience balloon, helicopter or World War II Warbird Airplane rides, skydiving exhibitions, 5k and 10k runs alongside the colorful balloon collection, festival fare, games and more. Admission to the festival grounds is free, with on-site activities ranging from $35 for a tethered balloon ride to $450 for a 30 minute Warbird airplane flight.
kissimmeefestival.com ( http://www.kissimmeefestival.com ) 407-415-8470
Mickey?s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Sept. ? Oct., Select Nights
Each fall, guests are invited to dress in costumes and trick-or-treat throughout the Magic Kingdom after regular park hours. The boo-free bash includes a parade and bewitching fireworks spectacular. Admission: $62.95, regular admission; $55.95 for advance tickets.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
Howl-O-Scream
Sept. ? Oct., Select Nights
On select nights, Howl-O-Scream transforms Busch Gardens Tampa Bay into a nightmare of inescapable fear that will overwhelm the senses with a new spin on horror. The devious creatures that infest haunted houses, scare zones and thrilling shows have plenty of psychotic surprises in store and bone-chilling roller coasters to keep the screams coming all night long. Admission: TBD.
howloscream.com ( http://www.howloscream.com ) 888-800-5447
Universal?s Halloween Horror Nights
Sept. 21 ? Oct. 31, Select Nights
The event is considered one of the world?s largest, most elaborate Halloween celebrations. Universal enlists a ?scream team? of designers to research the human psyche and its deepest fears to create haunted houses and ?scare zones? of terrifying magnitudes for guests. Admission: TBD.
halloweenhorrornights.com ( http://www.halloweenhorrornights.com ) 407-363-8000
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Sept. 28 ? Nov. 11
From the seasoned connoisseur to the knowledge-seeking amateur, this popular event attracts a diverse audience to sip, sample and savor treasures from some of the world?s most famous wineries and celebrated chefs. Guests can boost their wine IQ at any of the hundreds of wine and beer seminars and polish their culinary skills at the numerous demonstrations and tastings. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
OCTOBER
Orlando Home Show
Oct. 5-7
Held at the Orange County Convention Center, the Orlando Home Show is Central Florida?s leading and largest consumer showcase of new products and services for home remodeling and interior décor. The show features local, regional and national experts in remodeling, building, decorating and landscaping; instructional how-to seminars; giveaways; contests; and exhibits with the industry?s latest products. Admission: $10.
orlandohomeshow.com ( http://www.orlandohomeshow.com ) 407-685-9800
39th Annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival
Oct. 13-14
More than 40,000 people attend this free juried art show held in Central Park that features work by outstanding Florida artists. The event also includes live entertainment and food provided by local restaurants. Children?s art workshops are offered. Admission: Free.
winterpark.org/autumnartfestival ( http://www.winterpark.org/autumnartfestival ) 407-644-8281
Gay Pride Festival and Parade ? Come Out With Pride
Oct. 6
A signature event of the Metropolitan Business Association, ?Come Out With Pride? is Central Orlando?s largest gay pride festival and parade. The festivities are held in downtown Orlando?s Lake Eola Park, complete with entertainment and long parade route. Admission: Free.
mbaorlando.org ( http://mbaorlando.org )
Orlando Film Festival
October 17-21
The 7th annual Orlando Film Festival features events in and around the heart of Orlando, where patrons enjoy great films in exciting venues while experiencing Orlando?s downtown lifestyle. The festival seeks to inspire student, future and current filmmakers in the art of filmmaking and to enhance the movie-viewing experience. Admission: $5 for one day or $15 for All Festival Pass.
orlandofilmfest.com ( http://www.orlandofilmfest.com )
20th Anniversary Biketoberfest
Oct. 18 ? 21
Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach is a rousing, fun-filled weekend that attracts more than 125,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from near and far. Activities include rides, concerts, food and much more. Admission: Free.
biketoberfest.org ( http://www.biketoberfest.org ) 386-255-0415
Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival
Oct. 20
Walt Disney World Resort hosts the Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival at Downtown Disney. This one-day regatta, attracting recreational and competitive teams from all over North America, will run from approximately 8 a.m. ? 6 p.m. The festival also includes exhibitors, food concessions and a medal ceremony. Admission: Free.
gwndragonboat.com ( http://www.gwndragonboat.com/Default.asp?id=112&l=1 ) 416-962-8899
Park Avenue Fashion Week
Oct. 14-20
Park Avenue Fashion Week in Winter Park includes luxurious runway shows and a swanky VIP event. Stores host trunk shows and welcome the designers for meet-and-greets throughout the week. Admission for the fashion show: TBD.
parkavenuefashionweek.com ( http://www.parkavenuefashionweek.com ) 407-644-8281
Central Florida Veg Fest 2012
Oct. 27
This annual festival offers educational exhibits and events about vegetarian cuisine and lifestyle. Exhibits will feature new products and ideas from over 250 vendors and contributors as well as a wide variety of food preparationdemos. Veg Fest is a family-friendly, dog-friendly event held at Festival Park near downtown Orlando. Admission: Free. cfvegfest.org ( http://www.cfvegfest.org ) ; 321-331-1859
28th Annual Mount Dora Craft Fai r
Oct. 27-28
This nationally ranked, juried event continues to attract more than 250,000 visitors and more than 350 of the best crafters in the country. Admission: Free.
mountdora.com/festivals.php ( http://www.mountdora.com/festivals.php ) 352-383-2165
Zoo Boo Bash
Oct. 20-21, 27-28
Trick-or-treat in the wildest neighborhood in town at the Central Florida Zoo.This event is a fun and not-too-scary event for young and old alike. Children can wear costumes for trick-or-treat stations and face painting.Visitors can take a haunted hayride, visit the pumpkin patch for a fun photo and learn about the myths and realities of some misunderstood animals. Admission: Included in regular rates.
centralfloridazoo.org ( http://www.centralfloridazoo.org ) 407-323-4450
Festival Calle Orange
Oct. 28
Central Florida?s largest Hispanic festival brings together people of many nationalities, religions and backgrounds to enjoy food, music and dancing in the streets of downtown Orlando. Admission: $15. (Price may change.)
renesproductions.com ( http://www.renesproductions.com ) 407-381-5310
SeaWorld?s Halloween Spooktacular
Oct., Select Dates
SeaWorld?s Halloween Spooktacular is an underwater ?fantasea? that comes alive as youngsters trick-or-treat among friendly sea witches, octopuses, mermaids, pumpkin fish and more. Children may dress up and play with sea fairies, learn from a school of fish or dance with an ice witch. Admission: Included with park admission.
seaworldorlando.com ( http://www.seaworldorlando.com/orlando/default.aspx ) 407-363-2259
NOVEMBER
PlayFest! The Harriett Lake Festival of New Plays
Nov. 1-4
Enjoy a 10-day festival packed with dynamic and diverse new plays at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Loch Haven Park. The annual event includes readings, workshops and productions of new plays (all followed by lively post-show discussions), e-mail plays, revivals of Orlando International Fringe Festival favorites, keynote addresses and seminars by award-winning playwrights, new music, food, drink and more. Admission: Varies.
orlandoshakes.org ( http://www.shakespearefest.org ) 407-447-1700
Fall Fiesta in the Park
Nov. 3-4
This event, held at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando, features more than 600 juried artisans in all media, including ceramics, glassware, jewelry, photography, wood and clothing. In addition to a fabulous lineup of art and live entertainment, the fiesta offers an array of tasty fare. Admission: Free.
cityoforlando.net ( http://www.cityoforlando.net ) 407-246-2121
Children?s Miracle Network Classic
Nov. 8-11
This tournament brings together nearly 150 top PGA Tour players in a quest for a multi-million dollar purse. The 72-hole event is played on Disney’s Magnolia and Palm courses. Admission: $10 for an adult one-day ticket. $20 for a weekly ticket. Children get in free with a ticketed adult.
childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com ( http://childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com ) 407-824-4321
Annual Winter Park Concours d?Elegance
Nov. 9-11
More than 120 rare automobiles will be on display on elegant Park Avenue in Winter Park for one of the most highly-regarded, judged exotic car shows in the United States. Guests won?t want to miss the Tour d?Elegance, an exotic car parade. Admission: Free.
winterparkconcours.com ( http://www.winterparkconcours.com ) 407-649-9385
37th Annual Festival of the Masters
Nov. 9 – 11
Held at Downtown Disney West Side, the event is a nationally recognized art show that year after year ranks among the top 50 outdoor art festivals in the world. More than 200 award-winning artists display their diverse creations for all to see. Live entertainment, hands-on children?s activities and chalk art displays are also on tap at the three-day event. Admission: Free.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
Festival of Trees at Orlando Museum of Art
Nov. 12-20
For nine magical days, the Orlando Museum of Art is transformed into a glittering holiday wonderland where trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses ignite holiday spirit. Admission: $10 for adults and $6 for children (ages 3-11).
omart.org ( http://www.omart.org ) 407-896-4231
33rd Florida Blue Florida Classic
November 17
The Florida Classic Consortium holds the 33rd edition of the annual showdown between Bethune-Cookman University and Florida A&M University at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Proceeds from the Florida Blue Florida Classic and all official ancillary events support the participating institutions? mission of providing educational opportunities through scholarships for all students. Admission: Starting at $10.75
floridaclassic.org ( http://www.floridaclassic.org/Events.aspx ) 407-423-2476
Mickey?s Very Merry Christmas Party
Nov. ? Dec., Select Dates
The Magic Kingdom plays host to this series of nighttime holiday fun events for the little ones including holiday shows, fireworks and magic treats with Minnie and Mickey. Admission: $58.95 for advance tickets and $64.95 for regular admission.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
Holidays Around the World
Nov. 23 ? Dec. 30
This Epcot tradition features storytellers, a daily character tree-lighting ceremony and a stunning display of snow-white lights. The Candlelight Processional, a favorite of all ages, includes celebrity guest narrators, accompanied by a massed choir and orchestra for a retelling of the Christmas story. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
Nov. ? Jan. TBD
This dazzling holiday extravaganza electrifies Disney?s Hollywood Studios with millions of sparkling lights. With Jennings Osborne?s lights and a little Disney magic, the place comes alive in glowing color as snow falls overhead. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens Holiday Home Tour
Nov. 23 ? Jan. 6
Capture the holiday spirit through this 20-room, Mediterranean-style mansion at Pinewood Estate during the Christmas at Pinewood holiday home tour at Bok Tower Gardens. See what’s new and different when Central Florida designers transform the 1930s winter retreat into a glittering holiday showcase. Admission: $18 for adults and $8 for children.
boktowergardens.org ( http://www.boktowergardens.org ) 863-676-1408
SeaWorld?s Christmas Celebration
Nov. 23 ? Dec. 31, Select Dates
Create yuletide memories and celebrate the season during ?Christmas at SeaWorld.? This holiday event features festive decorations, snowfalls at The Waterfront and live holiday music from classical musicians and carolers. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
seaworldorlando.com ( http://www.seaworldorlando.com/orlando/default.aspx ) 1-888-800-5447
ICE! At Gaylord Palms ?
Nov. 10 ? Jan. 1
Who says the holidays in Florida are all about palm trees and sunshine? Visitors should prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms Resort presents ICE! An instant dose of winter, this spectacle is made from nearly 2 million pounds (907,185 kilograms) of ice. Admission: $19.99-$27.99 for adults, $9.99-$13.99 for children.
gaylordhotels.com ( http://www.gaylordhotels.com ) 407-586-2000
Leu?s Holiday House
Nov. 21 ? Jan. 6
The beautifully restored late 19th century Leu House Museum is decked out for the holidays by some of Orlando?s best interior designers. Guests can stroll along the garden?s meandering paths shaded by ancient oaks, forests of camellias and giant camphor trees. Admission: Included in the regular admission prices of $10 for adults and $3 for children.
leugardens.org ( http://www.leugardens.org ) 407-246-2620
DECEMBER
The OUC Half Marathon and 5K
Dec. 1
As one of the southeast?s top road race events, the OUC Half Marathon and 5K winds through scenic downtown Orlando and around beautiful Lake Eola alongside live local entertainment. Participants joining more than 3,000 runners for this charitable Florida tradition enjoy sunny Florida skies, moderate temperatures and the Finish Line Fiesta for post-race festivities. Admission: TBD.
OUChalfmarathonand5k.com ( http://www.ouchalfmarathonand5k.com ) 407-423-2476; 407-896-1160
Pop Warner Super Bowl
Dec. 1-8
Now in its 83rd year of providing an organizational structure for youth football, Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. brings its Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer & Dance Championships to Walt Disney World Resort. More than 60 teams from across the country compete in four age groups from 8-14 on the fields of the 220-acre (80-hectare) ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Admission: TBD.
popwarner.com ( http://www.popwarner.com ) 215-752-2691
The Nutcracker
Dec. 20-23
The Orlando Ballet presents visions of Sugarplum fairies, the Cavelier, Snow King and much more as the company rings in the holiday season with its annual presentation of The Nutcracker . Hosted at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, The Nutcracker is a favorite among ballet patrons and newcomers alike. The performance is kept true with classical elements and an infusion of Artistic Director Robert Hill?s mix of choreography. Admission: Tickets start at $15.
orlandoballet.org ( http://orlandoballet.org/performances/the-nutcracker-orlando ) 407-426-1739
Orlando Bowl Week
Dec. 26 ? Jan. 1
All eyes will be on Orlando during the last week of December as Florida Citrus Sports presents its annual bowl week festival. Incorporating the Russell Athletic Bowl and the Capital One Bowl on New Year?s Day, this week will feature more than 100,000 fans flocking to Central Florida for football, festivities and fun. In addition to outstanding action on the field, the festival includes the Orlando Citrus Parade and a concert in Lake Eola Park. Admission: TBD.
fcsports.com ( http://www.fcsports.com ) 407-423-2476
Russell Athletic Bowl
Dec. 28
The Russell Athletic Bowl (formerly Champs Sports Bowl) features teams from the ACC & Big Ten conferences. The game’s history extends for more than 15 years and attendance has increased steadily every year since. It is played in the Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando. Admission: TBD.
fcsports.com ( http://www.fcsports.com ) 407-423-2476
Fresh From Florida Parade
Dec. 31
The Fresh From Florida Parade, held in downtown Orlando, features signature citrus floats made from more than 100,000 grapefruit, oranges and tangerines. There are more than 50 entries, including marching bands from across the country. The parade attracts more than 60,000 spectators and an international audience of millions through its television syndication in the United States and Canada in 150 markets. Admission: Free.
fcsports.com ( http://www.fcsports.com ) 407-423-2476
New Year?s Eve 2012 at Universal CityWalk
Dec. 31
Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre (121,406-square-meter) entertainment complex with themed restaurants, nightclubs and shops, hosts one of Orlando?s hottest New Year?s Eve parties. The evening features live performances by national acts, an expansive gourmet buffet, a champagne toast and live entertainment at its nightclubs, including the groove , an electrifying dance club; CityJazz, a hip jazz venue; Jimmy Buffett?s Magaritaville and others. Admission: TBD. universalorlando.com ( http://www.universalorlando.com ) 407-363-8000
New Year?s Eve at the Walt Disney World Resort
Dec. 31
The parks come alive to say farewell to 2012. Epcot celebrates the New Year “around the world” with DJs and evening dance parties located throughout World Showcase and lasting late into the evening, as well as a special presentation of the “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth” lights, lasers and fireworks display. Disney?s Hollywood Studios celebrates New Year’s Eve not only with multiple presentations of “Fantasmic!” a spectacular of Disney movies and music, but also with a special “Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks spectacular, as well as a DJ dance party around the Sorcerer Hat Stage. Magic Kingdom features special presentations of the Main Street Electrical Parade and multiple nighttime fireworks displays. Admission: Theme park events are included in regular park admission.
disneyworld.com ( http://www.disneyworld.com ) 407-824-4321
New Year?s Eve at SeaWorld Orlando
Dec. 31
Celebrate the countdown to 2012 with live music and fireworks at The Waterfront, where guests can also enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment venues. At the stroke of midnight, the Orlando sky will radiate with brilliant fireworks that light up the night. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
seaworldorlando.com ( http://www.seaworldorlando.com/orlando/default.aspx ) 407-363-2259
Grinchmas at Universal?s Islands of Adventure
Dec. ? Jan. TBD
This annual holiday celebration is based on the beloved Dr. Seuss tale and Universal Pictures? and Imagine Entertainment?s Academy Award-winning blockbuster hit, ?Dr. Seuss? How the Grinch Stole Christmas.? Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure is transformed and colorfully decorated for the season. Guests are invited to enjoy a live, musical stage show and meet the Grinch in his lair, which is outfitted with authentic movie props and gadgets. Admission: Included in regular park admission.
universalorlando.com ( http://www.universalorlando.com ) 407-363-8000
Macy?s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios
Dec. ? Jan. TBD
The world?s most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios, featuring some of the most popular balloons and floats from the famous Macy?s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The excitement and pageantry of the parade, complete with a festive tree lighting ceremony by Santa Claus himself, is exhibited each day of the holiday season through the New Year. Admission: Included in regular park admission. universalorlando.com ( http://www.universalorlando.com ) 407-363-8000
*Details related to festivals and special events are subject to change.
For more information about vacation experiences in Orlando, to order a complimentary vacation planning kit that includes a comprehensive Official Vacation Guide and Orlando Magicard? or to purchase discount attraction tickets, visitors can log onto Orlando?s official Website at VisitOrlando.com ( http://www.visitorlando.com ) or call an Official Travel Counselor at 1-800-551-0181 (United States and Canada) or 407-363-5872. For real time updates, follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/VisitOrlando ( http://www.twitter.com/visitorlando ) or Facebook at facebook.com/VisitOrlando ( http://www.facebook.com/visitorlando ) . While in Orlando, visitors may stop by the Official Visitor Center located at 8723 International Drive, at the southeast corner of International Drive and Austrian Row. The Official Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (closes at 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving, Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 and is closed Dec. 25).