Each home has the minimum features listed below. Most homes have many more extras of course.
NEW! Free Wi-Fi Internet Keyless Entry (24H check-in)
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Free Resort Amenities (where applicable)
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Fully Air Conditioned
Cable or Satellite TV
Screened Pool Area (where applicable)
Washer and Dryer Iron / Ironing Board
Hairdryer/s
Pet and Smoke Free
All bedding and lined provided
Information Handbook
Fully licensed by State and County
2012 Fire Extinguisher Certification
Local Events in the Orlando Area for 2012
January 2012
1)
2012 Blue Spring Manatee Festival
Valentine Park,
West French Avenue, Orange City, Florida TBA, 2012 386-775-9224 Although the Blue Spring Manatee
Festival offers live entertainment, arts and crafts, children’s play area,
rides, environmental conservation displays and more, the highlight of the day is
a free bus ride from the festival to nearby Blue Spring State Park to watch
endangered manatees in their natural habitat. Orange City is located in Volusia
County just North of Orlando. Take Exit 54 off of I-4 East and follow signs to
Blue Spring State Park. Admission is charged. For more information about the
2012 Blue Spring Manatee Festival, visit
www.themanateefestival.com
2) 2012 Capital One Bowl
Florida Citrus Bowl
Stadium, 1610 West Church Street, Downtown Orlando, Florida New Year’s Day, 2012 1-800-297-2695 Teams from the Big Ten Conference and
Southeastern Conference face off at the 70,000-seat Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
on New Year’s Day in downtown Orlando for the 2012 Capital One Bowl.
Don’t miss the
Citrus Bowl Parade, which takes place a couple of days before the Capital
One Bowl, and features marching bands from the competing schools.
For more information about the 2012 Capital One Bowl, visit
www.fcsports.com.
Central Winds Park,
1000 East State Road 434, Winter Springs, Florida TBA, 2012 407-I AM SCOT (426-7268)
Area Scottish clans and societies gather to compete in rigorous athletic events,
dancing and piping to celebrate their rich heritage at the Central Florida
Scottish Highland Games. Sponsored by the Scottish-American Society of Central
Florida, the Games feature such crowd favorites as Tossing the Caber, Sheaf Toss
and Hammer Throw, as well as the second-largest highland dance competition in
the Southeastern United States, five skill levels of piping competition and
various children’s activities. Admission is charged. For more information about
the 2012 Central Florida Scottish Highland Games, visit
www.flascot.com.
4) Otronicon
Orlando Science Center,
Orlando, Florida January 13-16, 2012
Don't miss Otronicon - "Orlando's premier interactive technology event," which
takes place at the Orlando Science Center each January!
5) 2012 Outback Bowl
4201 North Dale Mabry
Highway, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida
New Year’s Day, 2012
813-874-2695
Once known as the Hall of Fame Bowl, the Outback Bowl matches the third-ranked
college football teams from the Big Ten and Southeastern conferences at
65,657-seat Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Special
events that take place during the week before the Outback Bowl include Beach Day
in Clearwater and a New Year’s Eve Parade and Fireworks Show in Ybor City.
Directions to Raymond James Stadium from Orlando: Take I-4 West to I-275 South
to North Dale Mabry Highway (Exit 23-A). The stadium is located approximately 1
mile North between Dale Mabry and Himes Avenue.
6) 2012 Renninger's Antique Extravaganza
Renninger’s Antique
Center, U.S. 441, Mount Dora, Florida
Third Weekend in January, February & November 2012
1-800-522-3555 Shop for treasures at the largest
antique fair of its kind in the South! Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza features
1,400 dealers of antiques and collectibles spread over 117 acres of rolling
countryside in beautiful Mount Dora. The Antique Extravaganza is also held
during the third weekends of February and November. Admission is charged.
7) 2012 Sunshine Regional Chili Cook-Off
Kissimmee Lakefront
Park, 101 Lakeshore Boulevard, Kissimmee, Florida
TBA, 2012
407-93-EVENT (3-8368) Competitors from around the state and
throughout the United States show off their chili cooking skills at this
fun-filled event sanctioned by the International Chili Society. Enjoy free chili
samples, live music, arts and crafts, a food festival and children’s activities.
Admission is free.
8) 2012 Walt Disney World Marathon
Walt Disney
World®Resort Area,
Lake Buena Vista, Florida Early January, 2012 407-939-7810 Test your endurance by joining approximately 24,000 other runners for this
rewarding 26.2-mile race through the scenic Walt Disney World® Resort
area. The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend features Goofy's Race and A Half
Challenge, Half Marathon, Circle of Life 5K, Kids' Races, and Health and Fitness
Expo.
The Walt Disney World Marathon itself costs $135 and covers race registration,
official race program, commemorative Champion Race Tech Shirt, goody bag, event
weekend transportation for Walt Disney World Resort hotels only, personalized
bibs, on-course refreshments, on-course Disney entertainment, post-race
refreshments, family reunion area with live entertainment, post-race celebration
entry, certificate for finishers of the race and Mickey Mouse medal for
finishers.
9) 2012 Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the
Arts & Humanities
Downtown
Eatonville, Florida TBA, 2012 407-647-3307 Celebrate the life and work of famous
author, folklorist and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston (Their Eyes Were
Watching God) at this lively 4-day event, which features a street festival,
cultural arts events, public forums, educational programs and a screenwriting
competition. Eatonville lies just a few miles North of Orlando. Exit I-4 East at
Lee Road, turn right onto Lee Road and then turn left onto Orlando Avenue. Take
another left onto Kennedy Boulevard, Eatonville’s main street. Admission is
charged. For more information about the 2012 Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the
Arts & Humanities, visit
www.zoranealehurstonfestival.com.
February 2012
1)
2012 Antiques Show & Sale
Orlando Museum of
Art Loch Haven Park, 2416 North Mills Avenue, Orlando, Florida TBA, 2012 407-896-4231 Antique dealers from throughout the
Eastern United States display a wide variety of paintings, furniture, jewelry,
porcelain and much more at the Orlando Museum of Art during the Council of 101
Antiques Show & Sale. Admission is charged. For more information about the 2012
Antiques Show & Sale, visit
omart.org.
2) 2012 Orlando ArtsFest
Various Venues,
Orlando, Florida TBA, 2012 407-628-0333 More than 80 cultural organizations
will participate in the four-day ArtsFest, which kicks off the United Arts
fundraising campaign. ArtsFest will take place at venues throughout Orange,
Seminole, Osceola and Lake counties, and features music, dance, drama, art and
much more! Participating organizations include Mad Cow Theatre, Orlando Ballet
and Orlando Museum of Art. Although admission is free, reservations are required
for some events. For more information about 2012 ArtsFest, visit
www.artsfestfl.com.
3) 2011 Atlanta Braves Spring Training at
Disney World
Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 407-939-GAME (4263)
The Atlanta Braves professional baseball team returns to Champion Stadium at
Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in late February (the Braves will play
their 14th season of Spring Training at Disney World in 2011) for Spring
Training, which typically consists of 16 home games played throughout the month
of March. Over the years, the Braves have captured three World Series
championships, nine National League pennants and 16 divisional titles. For more
information about Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Disney's Wide World of
Sports Complex, visit
disneyworldsports.disney.go.com.
Sunday, Feb. 27 – New York Mets – 1:05 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 28 – Houston Astros – 1:05 p.m.
Thursday, March 3 – Detroit Tigers *SS – 1:05 p.m.
Friday, March 4 – Toronto Blue Jays – 1:05 p.m.
Saturday, March 5 – New York Mets – 1:05 p.m.
Tuesday, March 8 – New York Yankees – 1:05 p.m.
Wednesday, March 9 – St. Louis Cardinals – 1:05 p.m.
Thursday, March 10 – St. Louis Cardinals – 1:05 p.m.
Saturday, March 12 – New York Mets – 1:05 p.m.
Sunday, March 13 – Houston Astros – 1:05 p.m.
Wednesday, March 16 – Boston Red Sox – 1:05 p.m.
Thursday, March 17 – Washington Nationals – 6:05 p.m.
Saturday, March 19 – New York Mets *SS – 1:05 p.m.
Sunday, March 20 – Houston Astros – 1:05 p.m.
Wednesday, March 23 – Florida Marlins – 1:05 p.m.
Friday, March 25 – Detroit Tigers *SS – 6:05 p.m.
Sunday, March 27 – Philadelphia Phillies – 1:05 p.m.
Monday, March 28 – Washington Nationals – 6:05 p.m.
*SS – denotes split squad
All times are Eastern and
are subject to change.
All games to be played at
Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Information on the
Braves’ spring training season, group tickets and mini-packs is available by
calling 407/939-GAME (4263) and online at
www.espnwwos.com/atlantabraves.
4) 2010 Houston Astros Spring Training
Osceola County
Stadium 1000 Bill Beck Boulevard, Kissimmee, Florida 407-839-3900 The Houston Astros professional
baseball team has called the newly renovated Osceola County Stadium
in Kissimmee its spring-training home since 1985. Stadium amenities include
all-armchair seating, state-of-the-art training facilities, a fan-friendly
“Autograph Alley” and a party deck for private functions. The Houston Astros
compete in the Central Division of the National League. For 2010 Houston Astros
Spring Training ticket information, call the ticket office at the above number.
For more information about Houston Astros Spring Training, visit
http://houston.astros.mlb.com.
Universal Studios
Florida®,
Universal Orlando®,
Orlando, Florida TBA, 2012 407-363-8000, 1-800-837-2273 The streets of Universal Studios
theme park come alive for the largest Mardi Gras celebration outside of the Big
Easy – featuring spectacular parades with colorful floats, extravagantly
costumed characters, a live concert series that boasts some of today’s hottest
musical performers, delicious New Orleans-style cuisine and plenty of beads to
throw around. Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida® festivities run
on select nights from mid-February to early April. Admission is included with
your regular Universal Studios Florida® ticket.
6) 2012 Mount Dora Arts Festival
Downtown Mount
Dora, Florida TBA, 2012 352-383-0880
More than 300,000 people fill the streets of downtown Mount Dora for this
extremely popular two-day art festival, which is ranked among the top 20 events
in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. The talents of approximately
285 of the country’s leading artists will be on display in the areas of oils,
clay, graphics, photography, watercolor, acrylics, glass, jewelry, sculpture,
mixed media and more. The Mount Dora Art Festival also features live
entertainment, food and a kid’s art area. Although admission is free, a $1
donation to support the Mount Dora Center for the Arts is requested. Mount Dora
is located approximately 25 miles Northwest of Orlando, via U.S. 441. For more
information about the 2012 Mount Dora Arts Festival, visit
www.mountdoracenterforthearts.org.
7) 2012 Osceola County Fair & Livestock Show
Osceola Heritage
Park, Kissimmee, Florida TBA, 2012 321-697-3050 The Osceola County Fair showcases the
rich heritage of Osceola County in the areas of education, agriculture,
horticulture and livestock. The event promises something for everyone, including
fun rides, livestock shows, delicious food, arts and crafts displays and
informative exhibits. Admission is charged. For more information about the 2012
Osceola County Fair, visit
www.osceolacountyfair.com.
8) 2012 Renninger's Antique Extravaganza
Renninger’s Antique
Center, U.S. 441, Mount Dora, Florida
Third Weekend in January, February & November 2012
1-800-522-3555 Shop for treasures at the largest
antique fair of its kind in the South! Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza features
1,400 dealers of antiques and collectibles spread over 117 acres of rolling
countryside in beautiful Mount Dora. The Antique Extravaganza is also held
during the third weekends of February and November. Admission is charged.
9)2012 Silver Spurs Rodeo
Silver Spurs
Arena 1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee, Florida TBA, 2012 407-67-RODEO (76336) The largest rodeo East of the
Mississippi River features a variety of exciting events held at the
state-of-the-art, indoor Silver Spurs Arena such as Bareback Bronc Riding,
Barrel Racing, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Team
Roping, Tie-Down Roping and even Mutton Bustin’ for the kids! Admission is
charged. For more information about the Silver Spurs Rodeo, visit
www.silverspursrodeo.com.
10) 2012 Speedweeks
Daytona
International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Florida Early February, 2012 386-253-7223 Join the festivities to help kick
off the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series season during two spectacular weeks of
racing that culminate with the 200-lap Daytona 500 – the “Super Bowl of
Stock Car Racing." In addition to the Daytona 500, racing events during
Speedweeks include the Rolex 24, Budweiser Shootout, Daytona 500 Qualifying,
Gatorade 125’s, Florida Dodge Dealers 250 and Hershey’s 300. Admission is
charged. For more information about Speedweeks, visit
www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
11) 2012 Winter Park Bach Festival
Rollins
College, Holt Avenue, Winter Park, Florida Late February - Early March, 2012 407-646-2182
The third-oldest continuously operating Bach festival in the United States
celebrates the life and music of the great German baroque composer Johann
Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) through guest lectures and musical performances
in the beautiful Knowles Memorial Chapel on the campus of Rollins College.
Admission is charged. From I-4 East, take the Fairbanks Avenue Exit (#45)
and turn right onto Fairbanks Avenue. Turn right onto Park Avenue and then
take a left onto Holt Avenue.
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
9000 Bay Hill Boulevard, Orlando, Florida
TBA, 2012
407-876-7774, 1-866-764-4843
The Arnold Palmer Invitational (formerly known as the Bay Hill Invitational)
draws the world’s top professional golfers on the PGA Tour. The event traces its
history back to 1966 when it began as the Florida Citrus Open Invitational.
Tiger Woods, who lives in nearby Windermere, captured an unprecedented four
consecutive Bay Hill championships from 2000 to 2003. Woods also won the Arnold
Palmer Invitational in 2008 and 2009. Ernie Els won the 2010 Arnold Palmer
Invitational.
Various Sites, Daytona Beach, Florida
TBA, 2012
386-255-0981, 1-800-854-1234
Daytona Beach Bike Week, the “World’s Largest Motorcycle Event” attracts more
than 500,000 bike enthusiasts from all over the world for a raucous 10
days of motorcycle shows, exhibits, live concerts, races at the Daytona
International Speedway and, last but certainly not least, hardcore partying on
Main and Beach streets. Admission is charged to certain events.
Central Florida
Fairgrounds, 4603 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida TBA, 2012
407-295-3247 Since 1887, the 11-day Central Florida Fair has celebrated the best in
regional arts and crafts, live music and dance, food, livestock shows, thrilling
carnival rides, fascinating interactive exhibits and much more! The Wade Shows
Midway boasts 100 rides and attractions. Admission is charged.
4) 2012 Mount Dora Spring Collectibles &
Craft Show
Downtown Mount Dora,
Florida
TBA, 2012
352-383-2165 Approximately 200 vendors display
their wares on the streets of downtown Mount Dora during this all-day fair.
Admission is free. Mount Dora , known as “The Antique Capital of Central
Florida,” is located approximately 25 miles Northwest of Orlando, via U.S. 441.
5) 2012 Viva La Musica
SeaWorld®
Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa, Orlando, Florida TBA, 2012
A lively Latin festival at both SeaWorld® Orlando and Busch Gardens
Tampa, Viva La Musica features award-winning musicians, delicious Latin food and
much more. Past entertainers at Viva La Musica have included Victor Manuelle,
Tito Nieves, Oscar D'Leon, Sergio Vargas, Gruopmania, Tito "El Bambino," El Gran
Combo, Monchy & Alexandra, Paulina Rubio and La India, among many others.
2012 VIVA LA MUSICA SCHEDULE - TBA
For more information on concert
times and to purchase tickets, visit
www.seaworld.com.
Admission to Viva La Musica is
included with regular park admission. Concert seating is available on a
first-come, first-served basis. Concert dates and artists are subject to change
without notice.
6) 2012 Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival
Central Park, along Park
Avenue, Winter Park, Florida
TBA, 2012
407-672-6390 One of the most prestigious outdoor art festivals in the United States, the
Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival attracts more than 350,000 people and features
the work of approximately 275 talented artists from around the world. Categories
include painting, drawing and graphics, clay, fiber, leather, wood, digital art,
photography, mixed media, metal, jewelry, sculpture, watercolor and glass. The
three-day Winter Park Sidewalk Festival includes live entertainment, food,
student artwork and a children’s workshop. Admission is free. For more
information about the 2012 Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, visit
www.wpsaf.org.
April 2012
1)2012 A Taste of Oviedo
Oviedo Boulevard,
Oviedo, Florida 407-365-6500 April, 2012
One of the fastest-growing festivals in the Southeast, A Taste of Oviedo draws
more than 30,000 people annually for delicious food from area restaurants,
displays from artists and craftspeople, a student art show, car show, home and
garden show, live entertainment, a citrus and celery cook off, children’s
activities and various business displays. Taste of Oviedo is sponsored by the
Oviedo-Winter Springs Regional Chamber of Commerce. Admission is free; donations
are accepted.
For more information about the 2012 A Taste of Oviedo festival, visit
www.tasteofoviedo.org.
2)2012 central Florida Home & Garden Show
Orange County
Convention Center (Hall North B) 9800 International Drive, Orlando, Florida April 2012 1-800-645-7798 The Central Florida region’s largest consumer home and garden showcase, the
2012 Central Florida Home & Garden Show, features more than 475 exhibits that
will help you through every step of your home improvement projects. Whether you
are looking for decorating ideas, remodeling plans or landscaping tips, you’ll
find expert advice at this three-day home improvement extravaganza.
For more information about the 2012 Central Florida Home & Garden Show, visit
www.floridahomeshows.com.
3)2012
Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival
Epcot®, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Early March - Mid-May, 2012
407-824-4321 View colorful displays of roses, wildflowers, topiary displays of your
favorite Disney characters and world-class horticultural displays at the
19th-annual Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival, one of the
most popular annual events at Disney World, which will run from early March to
mid-May. The floral festival – which includes a live Flower Power Concert
Series, gardening seminars, workshops, demonstrations and children’s
activities – is included with regular admission to Epcot. For more information
about the 2012 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, visit
www.disneyworld.com/flower.
The Flower Power Concert Series
returns to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival each Friday through
Sunday. Performances will take place at the America Gardens Theatre at 5:15 PM,
6:30 PM and 7:45 PM each Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the 19th-annual
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. The lineup (subject to change
without notice) is listed below.
(schedule to
come)
Flower Power
performances are included with Epcot admission. For additional information about
the festival, visit
www.disneyworld.com/flower.
4)2012 Florida Film Festival
Enzian Theater, 1300
South Orlando Avenue, Maitland, Florida April 2012 407-644-6579 Move aside, Sundance! For film buffs, the 10-day Florida Film Festival is
the showcase for the best in American independent and foreign films,
documentaries, narrative films, midnight movies, regional and family films, and
animation. Sponsored by ENZIAN, the Florida Film Festival has become one of the
most respected regional film festivals in the United States. Festival events
include Spotlight Films, International Showcase, Special Screenings, American
Independent Competition, Midnight Movies, Student Works, Forums and
Celebrations. Admission is charged.
The 21st-annual Florida Film Festival will take place in April 2012, and boast
cutting-edge American independent and international film paired with fine
cuisine and wine. FLORIDA FILM FESTIVAL TRIVIA: Past attendees of the Florida
Film Festival have included Oliver Stone, Gabriel Byrne, Christopher Walken,
Dennis Hopper, John Waters, James Caan, Ed Burns, Steve Buscemi, Virginia
Madsen, Malcolm McDowell and William H. Macy, among others.
Lake Lily (Highway 17-92 &
Maitland Avenue), Maitland, Florida April 2012
Approximately 170 artists display their work at the 2012 Maitland Spring
Festival of the Arts, which also features children's activities and the Audubon
Society Birds of Prey. Admission is free.
6) 2012 Ron Jon Easter Surfing Festival
Shepard Park Beach, State
Road 520, Cocoa Beach, Florida
April 2012
321-799-8888 Cocoa Beach, also known as “The East Coast Surfing Capital,” hosts this
action-packed, four-day water sports event that features both professional and
amateur competitions in long board and short board surfing, skim board and
paddle board races. For more information about the 2012 Ron Jon Easter Surfing
Festival, visit
www.eastersurffest.com.
7) 2012 Spring Fiesta in the Park
Lake Eola, Eola Drive and
Robinson Street, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Early April 2012
407-649-3152 Spring Fiesta in the Park draws approximately 200 talented artists from all
over the United States. Ceramics, jewelry, glass, painting, graphics, wood,
sculpture and more are on display and for sale at the Spring Fiesta in the Park,
which is held around beautiful Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando. The festivities
include live entertainment and concessions. Admission is free. For more
information about 2011 Spring Fiesta in the Park, visit
fiestaintheparkorlando.org.
8) 2012 Viva La Musica
SeaWorld® Orlando, Orlando,
Florida
Dates to Be Announced
407-363-3359 A sensational fiesta that celebrates all aspects of Hispanic culture, Viva
La Musica at SeaWorld® Orlando features live performances from award-winning
Latin musicians, dancing, delicious Hispanic cuisine and fascinating exhibits.
Guests of Viva La Musica will dance out of their seats to the lively Latin beats
of salsa, merengue, reggaeton and Latin pop. Live performances will take place
inside SeaWorld's Bayside Stadium at 4 PM. Viva La Musica is included with
regular SeaWorld® Orlando park admission.
Note: Concert seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Performance schedule and talent is subject to change.
May 2012
1) 2012 Glory at the Gardens
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
TBA, May 2012
The 2012 Glory at the Gardens will take place in May 2012 (schedule to be
announced), at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and feature some of the hottest names in
contemporary Christian and Christian rock. Concerts are included with park
admission and start at 4 PM. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is located at 10001 North
McKinley Drive in Tampa, Florida. For more information about Glory at the
Gardens, visit
http://www.gloryatthegardens.com.
2) 2012 Orlando Cabaret Festival
Mad Cow Theatre
105 South Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, Floridaz
April - May 2012
(407) 297-8788
The Orlando Cabaret Festival features 18 days full of 40 shows that offers the
best of jazz, pop and Broadway. Past performers have included Jaimie Roberts,
Michelle Mailhot, Amy Baker, Laura Hodos, Heather Alexander, The Lascivious
Biddies, Roy Alan, 5-Alone, Songs on the Spot, 4th Floor and Mark Baratelli,
among many others.
Downtown Orlando & Loch
Haven Park, Orlando, Florida
TBA, May, 2012
407-648-0077 "100% uncensored. 100% accessible. 100% non-juried." Initiated in 1992, the
Orlando International Fringe Festival features cutting-edge performers and
innovative works. The festival is billed as “10 Days of Theatre, Art, Music and
Madness.” Spread out over various Orlando venues such as Loch Haven Park,
Lowndes Shakespeare Center and The Orlando Repertory Theatre, the 2012 Orlando
International Fringe Festival will take place in May 2012, and feature the
talents of more than 500 performers and 70 theater companies. It is the oldest
operating fringe festival in the United States. Admission is charged. For more
information about the 2011 Orlando International Fringe Festival, visit
www.orlandofringe.org.
4) Star Wars Weekends 2012
Disney's Hollywood Studios™, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake
Buena Vista, Florida Select dates in May & June 2012 407-W-DISNEY (934-7639)
Journey to a galaxy far, far away for a unique celebration of the smash-hit Star
Wars series of films that includes a variety of Star Wars activities and
celebrations throughout Disney's Hollywood Studios™, dozens of your
favorite characters from R2D2 to Darth Maul, Star Wars celebrities, Galactic
Game Show, Jedi Training Academy, trivia contests, collectibles and pin trading,
and the new Star Tours - The Adventures Continue thrill ride. Don't miss the
Hyperspace Hoopla dance party!
Wet ‘n’ Wild Orlando, 6200 International Drive, Orlando, Florida May, 2012
The third-annual Waves of Glory contemporary Christian music festival at Wet ‘n’
Wild will feature a Battle of Christian rock bands for cash and prizes, as well
as praise bands and choirs. Wet ‘n’ Wild is located at 6200 International Drive
in Orlando, Florida. For more information about Waves of Glory, visit
www.wetnwildorlando.com/events.html#wog.
6) 2012 Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival
4253 West Ponkan Road, Zellwood, Florida TBA, May, 2012 407-886-0014 Enjoy outdoor fun for everyone in the form of corn-eating contests, live
entertainment from well-known country singers and bands, arts and crafts,
carnival rides, games and, of course, all-you-can-eat sweet corn! The three-day
Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival draws more than 25,000 people. Admission is
charged. Zellwood is located Northwest of Orlando on U.S. 441. For more
information about the 2012 Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival, visit
www.zellwoodcornfestival.com.
June 2012
1) 2012 Gay Days
Walt Disney World®
Resort & Various Orlando Venues
Early June, 2012
407-896-8431
Although Walt Disney World® Resort does not sponsor the event, Disney
theme parks have been the main gathering spot for the Gay Days celebration since
its inception in 1991, although the event has spread to other theme parks and
venues throughout Orlando such as Universal Orlando® and SeaWorld® Orlando. 2010
Gay Days will draw approximately more than 125,000 gay and lesbian visitors from
around the world. In addition to visits to the theme parks, a variety of special
events and parties are scheduled during Gay Days.
2) 2012 Sounds Like Summer Concert Series
Epcot®, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Timeless tunes performed by tribute bands have guests groovin' at Epcot America
Gardens Theatre during the return of the Sounds Like Summer concert series for
2012!
The "Sounds Like Summer"
concert series starts at
Epcot in early June 2012 (dates to be announced). Each evening through July
31 at 5:45 PM, 7 PM and 8:15 PM, "Sounds Like Summer" bands will take the stage
at the theme park's America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.
(Information about scheduled entertainers to come.)
Note: Lineup subject to
change without notice.
For more information about the 2012 Sounds Like Summer Concert Series, visit
www.disneyworld.com.
3) Universal Orlando Summer Concert Series
The annual Summer Concert
Series at Universal Orlando Resort features some of today's hottest musical
stars. The lineup for the 2012 Summer Concert Series at Universal has yet to be
announced.
The Summer Concert Series at Universal Orlando is included with regular park
admission to Universal Studios. For more information, visit
www.universalorlando.com/summer.
July 2012
1)
2012 Celebration of Freedom
Central Winds Park, 1000
East State Road 434, Winter Springs, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012
407-327-6593 Gather the entire family and spend an all-American day of live music, great
food, kids’ games, contests, activities and an awesome fireworks display over
Lake Jesup at Winter Springs’ Celebration of Freedom! Admission is free.
2) 2012 City of Kissimmee July 4th
Celebration
Kissimmee Lakefront Park,
101 Lakeshore Boulevard, Kissimmee, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012
407-93-EVENT (3-8368) One of the most popular annual events in Osceola County, the July 4th
Celebration attracts more than 45,000 people and features live entertainment,
karaoke, arts and crafts, bingo, a food festival, water-ski show and a
spectacular fireworks display. Admission is free.
3) 2011 Coke Zero 400 Powered by Coca-Cola
Daytona International
Speedway
1801 West International Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL
July, 2012
386-253-7223
Celebrating Independence Day by watching NASCAR’s elite compete to take the
checkered flag in the Coca-Cola 400 at Daytona International Speedway is a
family tradition among die-hard racing fans. It’s nighttime racing at its best,
followed by a spectacular fireworks extravaganza! For more information about the
Coke Zero 400, visit
www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
4) 2012 Fireworks at the Fountain
Lake Eola, Eola Drive &
Central Boulevard, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012
407-246-2827 Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon around beautiful Lake Eola in downtown Orlando
with games, activities, live entertainment and delicious food, followed by a
fabulous 30-minute fireworks display at night. Admission is free. For more
information about the 2012 Fireworks at the Fountain, visit
www.cityoforlando.net.
5) 2012 Fourth of July at Universal Orlando
Resort
Universal Orlando®,
Orlando, Florida
Fourth of July Weekend, 2012
407-363-8000
Spend the Fourth of July weekend enjoying the thrilling rides and attractions at
Universal Orlando’s two extraordinary theme parks –
Universal Studios and
Islands of Adventure. For more information about 2012 Fourth of July at
Universal Orlando Resort, visit
www.universalorlando.com/Events/Summer/overview.aspx.
6) 2012 Fourth of July Block Party
Wall Street Plaza, Downtown
Orlando, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012 If you’re looking to do some serious Fourth of July partying, head to
downtown Orlando’s Wall Street Plaza with its half-dozen bars and outdoor stage
for quality live entertainment. It’s a great place to go before and after
viewing area fireworks displays. Admission is free.
7) 2012 Red Hot & Boom!
Cranes Roost Lake, Altamonte
Springs, Florida
July 3rd, 2012
407-571-8857 Beautiful Cranes Roost Park lights up with an immensely popular festival and
fireworks display that includes live music from nationally and international
known entertainers, as well as an awesome fireworks display and food/beverage
booths at the Red Hot & Boom! Independence Day Celebration. Sponsored by the
City of Altamonte Springs and XL 106.7 FM, Red Hot & Boom! is the largest
Independence Day celebration in Central Florida.
Admission to Red Hot & Boom! is free and performances run from 4 PM to 11 PM.
The fireworks display takes place at 9:30 PM. Red Hot & Boom! also will be
simulcast on XL 106.7 FM. Note: No pets, coolers or personal fireworks are
allowed at Red Hot & Boom!
8) 2012 Sanford Fourth of July Celebration
Fort Mellon Park, Historic
Downtown Sanford & Lake Monroe, Sanford, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012
407-302-2520 A July 4th family-oriented extravaganza full of live entertainment, games,
family activities and concessions, the Festival on the Fourth culminates with
one of the largest fireworks shows in Central Florida. The festivities take
place along the city’s brand-new RiverWalk overlooking Lake Monroe in historic
downtown Sanford. Admission is free.
9) 2012 St. Cloud 4th of July Celebration
St. Cloud Lakefront, St.
Cloud, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012
407-892-3671 Celebrate Independence Day along the laid-back St. Cloud Lakefront with live
music, carnival rides, a petting zoo, classic car show, model stock car racing,
an arts and crafts show, food and fireworks display. Admission is free.
10) 2012 Walt Disney World® Resort
Fourth of July Celebrations
Walt Disney World Resort,
Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Fourth of July, 2012 407-W-DISNEY (934-7639)
A variety of special events for Fourth of July are scheduled at all four of the
major theme parks at Walt Disney World® Resort – Disney’s Magic
Kingdom® Park, Epcot®, Disney's Hollywood Studios™ and
Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park – such as patriotic parades, live music
and spectacular fireworks shows. A street party with live entertainment and
fireworks is also planned for Pleasure Island in Downtown Disney. All of the
Fourth of July celebrations are included in the regular admission price. ue
environment – the perfect way to start your Orlando adventure!
11) Winter Park's 2012 Old-Fashioned July 4th
Celebration
Central Park, Downtown
Winter Park, Florida
July 3rd, 2012
407-623-3363
Beautiful Central Park in downtown Winter Park is the site of this lively
festival that features patriotic music, a lively parade, hot dog eating contest
and a variety of fun activities for the whole family. Admission is free.
August 2012
2012 Anime Festival Orlando
Wyndham Orlando Resort, 8001
International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Early August, 2011 A three-day Japanese animation festival, Anime Festival Orlando provides
hardcore anime fans with screenings, guest panels, workshops, game shows and
contests, video games and a variety of dealers offering rare collectibles.
Admission is charged.
Highlights of 2012 Anime Festival Orlando will include a Dealer's Hall, Anime
Screenings, Panels and Workshops, Cosplay & Costume Contests, Film Contest,
Artists Alley & Gallery, Anime Music Video Contest, Rock Band Jam Sessions, and
Video Game Arcade and Tournaments.
Epcot®, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida Early October - Mid-November, 2011
407-824-4321 Take an eclectic tour of the world at the 2011 International Food & Wine
Festival as you sample delicious foods and fine wines during this international
culinary celebration at Epcot®, which also offers nightly concerts (Eat
to the Beat!), celebrity-chef cooking demonstrations, children’s activities and
the talents of street performers from acrobats to musicians. Admission is
charged for certain events at the 15th-annual Epcot® International Food &
Wine Festival.
The Eat to the Beat! Concert
Series will feature seven new musical acts during the 15th-annual Epcot
International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort.
International Food & Wine Festival Highlights
* More than 300 national and international wines
* 45 fabulous days long
* More than 76 kinds of international foods, each appetizer-sized portion priced
$2-$5
* More than 160 of America's most celebrated chefs and Walt Disney World®
Resort chefs
* 1,200 wine and beer seminars featuring more than 100 topics
* More than 1,200 fireworks rockets exploding each night over World Showcase
Lagoon in "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" grand finale to the festival
* 135 Eat to the Beat! concerts performed
* 33,000 bottles of wine and champagne
* 1.2 million hors d-oeuvre plates
* 2.1 million Vanity Fair napkins
* 750,000 beer cups
* 690,000 sumptuous samplings
* 600,000 forks
* 338,000 wine glasses
* 100,000 miniature desserts, including creme brulee, traditional apple strudel,
baklava and more
* 3,000 gallons of soup, including cheddar cheese soup (Montreal marketplace),
seafood gumbo (New Orleans marketplace), and chilled tomato and garlic soup
(Barcelona marketplace)
* 1,500 pounds of fresh strawberries
The six-week festival will
showcase tastes from countries on six continents. More than 25 international
marketplaces will serve tapas-sized portions of regional specialties at $2-to-$5
each, and recommended wines and beers make perfect pairings at each kiosk. Daily
complimentary wine and beer tastings serve up sips from around the world, and
culinary demonstrations dish up featured taste treats. A series of special
culinary programs features a lineup of renowned winemakers, guest chefs and
speakers participating in elegant dinners, luncheons, seminars and wine schools.
Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) for information about the 2010 Epcot
International Food & Wine Festival and to make reservations for special events
and programs.
2) 2012 Night of Joy
Disney’s Magic Kingdom,
Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Early September, 2012 407-W-DISNEY (934-7639)
Some of the most talented singers in contemporary Christian music take the stage
at Disney's Magic Kingdom for 2012 Night of Joy, a magical celebration full of
joy and inspiration. Live performances will take place between 7 PM and 12:30 AM
each night. The Night of Joy begins after regular park operating hours, with
concerts and select park attractions available exclusively for the enjoyment of
event ticket holders.
Universal Studios Florida®,
Universal Orlando®, Orlando, Florida Early September, 2012
1-800-837-2273 Billed as “A Weekend of Music and Thrills That’ll Rock Your Soul,” the
11th-annual Rock the Universe will take place in early September 2012 at
Universal Studios Florida. 2012 Rock the Universe will feature some of the
hottest names in the Christian music scene for an unforgettable weekend of fun
at fellowship at Universal Studios Florida. Universal Studios Florida is located
off I-4, Exit 75. For more information about Rock the Universe and to purchase
tickets, visit
www.rocktheuniverse.com.
Rock the Universe 2012 Lineup - COMING SOON!!!
2012 Rock the Universe News
Seeking great deals on affordable accommodations near Universal Orlando Resort?
Look no farther than Westgate Resorts! For more information about Westgate
Resorts, visit
www.westgatedestinations.com.
October 2012
1) 2012 Biketoberfest
Downtown Daytona Beach,
Florida
Mid-October, 2012
1-866-296-8970
Motorcycle races at Daytona International Speedway, live entertainment, shows
and expos, street festivals, demo rides and plenty of opportunities to party
draw thousands of bikers to Daytona Beach for the award-winning Biketoberfest, a
celebration of the joy of motorcycling.
2012 Biketoberfest will boast more than 5,000 vendors, 200,000 bikes and
hundreds of events and activities throughout the Daytona Beach area. For more
information about the 2012 Biketoberfest, visit
www.biketoberfest.org.
Universal Studios Florida® & Islands of Adventure®,
Universal Orlando®, Orlando, Florida Throughout October
Select Dates in September & October, 2012
Purchase tickets now for the
Halloween Horror Nights 22, which will take place at Universal Orlando
Resort on select dates during September and October 2012. Known as the nation’s
“Most Frightening Halloween Event,” Halloween Horror Nights 2012 will feature
new haunted houses, scarezones, hundreds of frightening “scareactors” and live
shows. Because of the event’s popularity, tickets for weekend nights are
expected to sell out and should be purchased well in advance.
Note: Halloween Horror Nights is definitely too intense for young children.
There are no masks, costumes or make-up allowed at Halloween Horror Nights.
Looking for great deals on spacious accommodations during your visit to
Universal Orlando Resort for Halloween Horror Nights? Visit
www.westgatedestinations.com for information on Westgate Resorts properties,
including Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, Westgate
Leisure Resort, Westgate Palace, Westgate Towers, Westgate Town Center and
Westgate Vacation Villas.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay,
Tampa, Florida
Select Nights in October2012
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay kicks off its 11th season of gut-wrenching scares with
the the 2012 Howl-O-Scream, which will take place during select nights in
October 2012. The devious creatures that infest all-new haunted hours, scare
zones, thrilling shows and even the streets themselves will have guests watching
their backs, and bone-chilling roller coasters keep the screams coming all night
long.
NOTE: 2012 Howl-O-Scream is a separate ticketed night event. No costumes
are allowed. Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. This year's event
contains intense adult content such as violence, gore and blood.
4) 2012 Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Disney’s Magic Kingdom®
Park , Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Select Dates in September & October 2012
407-934-7639 During select fun-filled evenings in September and October 2012,
Magic Kingdom® Park will host the popular after-hours extravaganza,
2011 Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Guests are invited to dress up in
Halloween costumes for the 7 PM to midnight bash, which boasts the "Boo-to-You"
Halloween Parade and the "Happy HalloWishes" fireworks spectacular, as well as
Character Dance Parties, Disney's Villains Mix & Mingle and special Disney
character appearances. There's trick-or-treating fun as well and also the
opportunity to enjoy Magic Kingdom® Park rides and attractions throughout
the night.
Attractions open during Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party include Swiss
Family Treehouse, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Splash
Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Haunted Mansion, The Hall of
Presidents, Peter Pan's Flight, Cinderella's Golden Carrousel, Dumbo the Flying
Elephant, Mickey's PhilharMagic, Snow White's Scary Adventures, The Many
Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Mad Tea Party, "it's a small world," Tomorrowland
Speedway, Astro Orbiter, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, Tomorrowland
Transit Authority, Stitch's Great Escape! and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.
When the Disney characters dress up for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
this September and October, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be debuting a
whole new look. Mickey has traded his scarecrow costume for stunning purple and
orange eveningwear fit for a Halloween ball. Not to be outdone, Mickey's best
girl, Minnie Mouse, exchanged her witch costume for a party dress to complement
Mickey's attire.
For Mickey, it's a top hat and purple tails. For Minnie, it's a party dress with
a purple hat with an orange ribbon - bright and colorful, befitting the fun when
Magic Kingdom® hosts the popular after-hours party.
SeaWorld® Orlando, Orlando, Florida
Select Dates in October 2012
407-363-2200 From pumpkin fishes to friendly sea witches, Halloween meets the sea in
October 2012 during
SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular, carving an underwater “fantasea”
where children can dance with an ice DJ, learn from a school of fish and play
with a sea fairy. Offering more than 2 million pieces of trick-or-treat sweets,
SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular uniquely brings children’s “fantaseas” to life
with enchanted pathways and charming sea creatures, providing the utmost in
family-friendly trick-or-treating.
One of Seasame Street’s
favorite residents, The Count, along with his friends from Sesame Street, even
gets into the Halloween spirit, with Count Von Count’s Spooktacular character
breakfast. Little ones will sing, groove and mingle side-by-side with Sesame
Street characters, while listening to Halloween-themed music and enjoying a
special breakfast “boo”-ffet.
Spooktacular Highlights
Trick-or-Treat Sea Sweets:
Using their Spooktacular maps, costumed youngsters can search for hidden
“fantasea” treasures at more than a dozen different stations, all featuring an
array of sweet treats.
Frozen Fun Zone: An ice
DJ will melt the ice during a Spooktacular celebration sure to heat up the area
with interactive games and activities.
Strolling Entertainment:
Gummy Worm Wanda, Salt Water Taffy and Swedish Fish Suzy are among the 35
fanciful sea creatures that will once again join the “Spook-tastic” fun,
welcoming trick-or-treaters as they stroll through colorful, playful schools of
pumpkin fish.
Wild Things at Seafire Inn:
In this show, guests will gain a new appreciation for nature’s most
misunderstood creepy creatures as they take center stage at Seafire Inn.
6) 2012 Southern Women's Show
Orange County Convention
Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, Florida
Mid-October, 2012
The 2012 Southern Women's Show will feature everything from "savvy shopping" to
"creative cooking ideas" and "healthy lifestyle tips." Enjoy celebrity guests,
trendy fashion shows and wonderful prizes at the 2012 Southern Women's Show.
7) 2012 Silver Spurs Rodeo
Silver Spurs Arena
1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee, Florida
TBA, 2012
407-67-RODEO (76336) The largest rodeo East of the Mississippi River features a variety of
exciting events held at the state-of-the-art, indoor Silver Spurs Arena such as
Bareback Bronc Riding, Barrel Racing, Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer
Wrestling, Team Roping, Tie-Down Roping and even Mutton Bustin’ for the kids!
Admission is charged. For more information about the Silver Spurs Rodeo, visit
www.silverspursrodeo.com.
8) 2012 Winter Park Autumn Art Festival
Lake Island Park, Winter
Park, Florida
Early October 2012
407-644-8281 A variety of art forms are featured at this bustling sidewalk show –
including ceramics, drawings, graphics, fiber, jewelry, sculpture, photography
and painting. The festivities include live entertainment, delicious food and
children’s art workshops. Admission is free to Winter Park Autumn Art Festival,
which draws approximately 40,000 people.
November 2012
1) Central Florida International Auto Show
Orange County Convention
Center, International Drive, Orlando, Florida
November 26-29, 2009
A true automotive extravaganza, the 2009 Central Florida International Auto Show
offers something for everyone - including hundreds of the newest cars, trucks,
sport-utility vehicles and minivans. Take an up-close look at newly introduced
pre-production models, as well as futuristic concept cars at the Central Florida
International Auto Show, which also features special guests, exhibits and much
more!
Approximately 40,000 attendees are expected during the five-day auto show. The
Central Florida International Auto Show is presented by the Central Florida Auto
Dealers Association.
2) Castle Dream Lights
November 8, 2011 – January
12, 2012
Every evening between November 8, 2011, and January, 12, 2012, Cinderella Castle
at Magic Kingdom® Park will be the centerpiece of holiday cheer with 200,000
white lights, Christmas decorations and a magical show featuring your favorite
Disney characters during Castle Dream Lights!
3) 2012 Children's Miracle Network Classic at
Walt Disney World Resort
Palm & Magnolia Courses,
Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
October 2012
407-824-2250 One of the most popular events on the PGA Tour, the Children's Miracle
Network Classic (formerly known as the FUNAI Golf Classic), presented by
Wal-Mart, has served as an annual tradition since 1971, the same year Walt
Disney World® Resort opened its doors. It is the last official money event
for the year.
Past tournament champions at the Disney golf tournament include the likes of
Jack Nicklaus (who won the tournament in 1971, 1972 and 1973), Tiger Woods,
David Duval, Mark O’Meara, Hal Sutton and Vijay Singh. The Children's Miracle
Network Classic, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2009, will take place
at the championship Palm and Magnolia courses at Walt Disney World®
Resort.
Downtown Disney®
Area, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
November 11-13, 2011 407-824-4321 Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World® Resort is simply one of
the most acclaimed open-air art festivals in the United States and an event not
to be missed! Approximately 150 award-winning artists display their diverse
wares at this immense outdoor showcase at Downtown Disney® Marketplace
that also includes live entertainment, culinary offerings and children’s
activities, as well as the House of Blues Folk Art Festival.
Festival hours are 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM Friday and Saturday, and 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Sunday. Admission and parking are free. For more information about the
37th-annual Festival of the Masters, visit
disneyworld.com/artfestival.
5) Festival of the Seasons
November 9, 2011 – January
8, 2012
Festival of the Seasons at Downtown Disney Area provides a spectacular holiday
shopping experience. All the Disney stores are decorated for the holidays and
feature a great variety of holiday merchandise. Live entertainment, wonderful
light displays, Santa’s presence, magnificent music and friendly performers make
the holiday shopping experience enjoyable and fun.
6) Festival of the Trees
Orlando Museum of Art,
Orlando, Florida November 12-20, 2011
Billed as "Central Florida's premier annual holiday event," the Festival of the
Trees runs over nine days in November at the Orlando Museum of Art, which is
transformed into a winter wonderland with decorated trees, wreaths and vignettes
that are available for purchase. Admission is charged.
7) 2011 Grinchmas at Universal's Islands of
Adventure®
Universal’s Islands of
Adventure®, Universal Orlando®, Orlando, Florida
December 3, 2011 - January 1, 2012 The classic Dr. Seuss story of the Grinch comes to life at Universal’s
Islands of Adventure®. Watch the Whoville Whobilation musical show, the
tree-lighting ceremony and much more. Grinchmas is included with your paid
admission to Islands of Adventure®. Merry Grinchmas!
8) 2011 Holidays Around the World at Epcot
Epcot®, Walt
Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
November 25 - Late December 30, 2011 Explore holiday traditions from around the globe such as France's Pere Noel,
Italy's LaBefana and America's Santa Claus at this extravagant Epcot seasonal
celebration. Festivities include a daily tree-lighting ceremony, themed
storytellers and a candlelight processional, all followed by the spectacular "IllumiNations:
Reflections of Earth." Holidays Around the World is included with regular park
admission to Epcot.
9) 2011 ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort
Prepare for the coolest winter on record in Central Florida as Gaylord Palms
Resort hosts ICE!, which features beautiful holiday scenes hand carved from
nearly 2 million pounds of ice! A fun-filled experience for the entire family,
ICE! takes place from November 16, 2011, through January 2, 2012.
Note: ICE! is kept at a frigid 9 degrees, so be sure to dress
appropriately (closed toe shoes and long pants are required). Hooded parkas are
provided for ICE! guests. ICE! has been named "Best Cultural Show/Event" by the
Orlando Sentinel.
10) 2011 Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade
Disney's Animal Kingdom®
Theme Park, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
November 10, 2011 - January 3, 2012 Mickey’s Jingle Jungle is a colorful and lively parade that takes place in
Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Mickey Mouse, Donald, Minnie
Mouse, Goofy and other friends go for a great jungle adventure while fun
performances take place and magnificent holiday music plays. The cheerful and
exotic Mickey’s Jingle Jungle paradeis known for its outstanding abstract animal
images, amazing designs made with natural materials and fabrics, and unique
holiday decorations.
11) 2011 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Disney’s Magic Kingdom®
Park, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Select Dates between November 8 & December 18, 2011 Enjoy a magical holiday celebration at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
that includes Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade with marching toy
soldiers, horse-drawn sleighs, enchanting floats and spirited characters, as
well as a special fireworks display called "Holiday Wishes - Celebrate the
Spirit of the Season" at Disney’s Magic Kingdom® Park. Mickey's Very
Merry Christmas Party is held on select dates between November 8 and December
18, 2011. For more information about the 2011 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas
Party, visit
disneyworld.com/christmasparty.
Favorite Magic Kingdom® Park attractions are also open throughout the
evening during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, and while forecasters
predict the first snowfall of the season will swirl a winter-like effect down
Main Street, U.S.A., guests can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies to add a warm spirit
to the festivities.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party takes place from 7 PM to 12 AM on the select
dates listed above. Separate admission is charged.
12) 2011 Orlando Magic NBA Basketball
Amway Arena, 600 W. Amelia
Street, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Through Late April 2011 The Orlando Magic basketball team plays its home games at the new Amway
Center in downtown Orlando.
13) 2011 The Osborne Family Spectacle of
Dancing Lights
Disney's Hollywood
Studios™, Walt Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida November 10, 2011 - December 7, 2011 & December 9, 2011 - January 7, 2012
If you are looking for a different experience where the holiday spirit shines
all over the place, the Spectacle of Dancing Lights is the perfect event.
Millions of blinking, twinkling and colorful lights decorate New York Street at
Disney's Hollywood Studios while dancing in a choreographed motion to
splendid holiday music. Beautiful Christmas trees, heavenly angels, sparkling
snowflakes and various three-dimensional and motion-based displays adorn the
streets making visitors feel and enjoy the spirit of the holiday season at
Disney World. The Spectacle of Dancing Lights is included in the regular price
of admission for Disney's Hollywood Studios™.
14) 2012 Renninger's Antique Extravaganza
Renninger’s Antique Center,
U.S. 441, Mount Dora, Florida
Third Weekend in January, February & November 2012
1-800-522-3555 Shop for treasures at the largest antique fair of its kind in the South!
Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza features 1,400 dealers of antiques and
collectibles spread over 117 acres of rolling countryside in beautiful Mount
Dora. The Antique Extravaganza is also held during the third weekends of
February and November. Admission is charged.
15) 2011 Space Coast Art Festival
Downtown Cocoa Beach,
Florida
Thanksgiving Weekend (November 26-27), 2011
321-784-3322 Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend 2011 with great art, a student show,
children’s activities, food, fun and entertainment at the Space Coast Art
Festival. Festivities kick off with a Thanksgiving morning 5K Turkey Trot.
Admission is free.
December 2012
1) 2011 Atlantic Dance Hall New Year's Eve
Disney's Boardwalk, Walt
Disney World® Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2011 Count down the New Year at the lively Atlantic Dance Hall along Disney’s
Boardwalk. Note: Tickets to the event are limited and all guests must be
at least 21 years old with proper ID.
Downtown Orlando, Florida
Late December, 2011
407-423-2476 Floats made of citrus fruit and highly talented marching bands characterize
this colorful parade that winds through the streets of downtown Orlando and
attracts more than 90,000 spectators. Admission is free. The Citrus Bowl Parade
serves as a prelude to the
Capital One Bowl, which matches the second-ranked college football teams of
the powerhouse Big Ten and Southeastern conferences at the Florida Citrus
Bowl Stadium on New Year’s Day.
For more information about the 2011 Citrus Bowl Parade, visit
www.fcsports.com.
3) 2011 Macy's Holiday Parade at Universal
Studios®
Universal Studios®,
Universal Orlando®, Orlando, Florida
Mid-December – Early January 2011 The Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios features live shows, clowns,
balloons, floats, holiday displays and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The
Holiday Parade is included with your paid admission to Universal Studios®
Florida.
4) 2011 Santa Social
Kissimmee Civic Center,
Kissimmee, Florida
December, 2011
407-933-8368 As the holidays near and decorations are put on display, join Santa as he
makes a quick trip into Kissimmee from the North Pole at the third-annual Santa
Social! There will be an opportunity to take pictures while seated on Santa’s
lap as the little ones tell him what they would like for Christmas ($2 per photo
with Santa). There will also be arts & crafts, as well as food vendors. Make
plans to attend the Santa Social and enjoy a great joyful time before the
Festival of Lights Parade, which starts at 6 PM and winds through downtown
Kissimmee.
5)Sea World
Orlando is an immensely popular theme park located in Orlando, Florida. Sea
World is combined with its neighbor
Discovery Cove and the
Aquatica water park to form the themed complex devoted to the oceans and the
amazing and interesting life that inhabits them. At Sea World® Orlando,
you can take a fascinating glimpse into world of beauty and mystery beneath the
sea through the unforgettable Sea World Orlando shows, up-close Sea World animal
encounters and the exhilarating rides at Sea World® Orlando, the world's most
popular marine adventure park. From the water-soaked spectacle of
One Ocean, featuring Shamu, Sea World's world-famous killer whale, to
state-of-the-art thrill rides like
Manta, the only flying roller coaster of its kind in the world;
Sea World's Journey to Atlantis, which features a 60-foot drop; and
Sea World's Kraken, Orlando's tallest and fastest roller coaster with speeds
of up to 65 miles per hour, a trip to Sea World® Orlando provides an amazing
vacation adventure for your entire family!
