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King Kong Returns to Universal Studios

2010-04-29T15:05:40-04:00

The Orlando theme parks have plenty of rides that have become favorites for those that travel to the area for a weekend escape or a big family vacation. If you ask those who come to the parks often what their favorite ride is, you’re sure to get a bunch of different answers. Some rides become “classics” like Back to the Future at Universal Studios, and when they are gone from the parks you see petitions and Facebook groups pop up to bring them back. But, unfortunately, those efforts don't always work. Now The Simpsons replaces Back to the Future at the Universal Orlando Resort, and despite the pleas of many fans it doesn’t seem like it’s ever coming back.

But over in Universal Studios Hollywood, they are the exception to this rule, because they have brought back a classic ride better than ever. King Kong will be returning sometime in May to the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park. It’s part of the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour. The new ride will involve a 360 degree screen with a 3-D film and 4-D effects. Peter Jackson, director of the newest King Kong movie as well as the Lord of the Rings trilogy, was responsible for creating the ride and bringing back a Universal Studios favorite.

"Kong is going to get up close and personal with everyone on the tram," said creative show producer Valerie Johnson-Redrow. "That's the beauty of doing this in 3D. Before, we couldn't build two state of the art animatronics, so Kong appeared on only one side of the tram. Now, you'll see him on both sides."You’ll be taken straight to Skull Island where none other than the T-Rex and velociraptors will attack you and the other riders in the tram!

You’ll see them coming at you in amazing 3-D as you feel their destruction when your tram shakes and rocks with every hit. It seems like this ride favorite is going to be a big success when it returns. Back here in Orlando, will our Universal Studios be doing the same thing? There has been so much focus on Harry Potter in Islands of Adventure, but maybe Kong will come back here as well.

Walt Disney World Resort Launches Summer Nightastic

2010-04-30T09:50:46-04:00

You may associate Disney with Mickey Mouse, Splash Mountain and turkey legs but this summer, when you think of Disney, you’ll think of after dark excitement! Beginning June 6th and continuing through August 14th, Walt Disney World’s®; "Summer Nightastic!” will light up the night with shimmering, shining Disney magic in Walt Disney World® theme parks. Enjoy night parades, music, fireworks and more as Disney theme parks bring you some of the most magical entertainment you’ll see all summer!“

Main Street Electrical Parade” returns, showcasing new floats and characters appearing at Walt Disney World® Resorts for the first time, Direct from Disneyland Resort and making its first engagement in Florida since 2001, the beloved parade will be led by Peter Pan’s friend and fairy, Tinker Bell as she waves from the basket of a magical balloon aboard a brand new float. The famous wooden puppet, Pinocchio and the fairest in the land, Snow White will also join Tinker Bell aboard new bright floats.

Disney's Hollywood Studios™ is also celebrating ‘Summer Nightastic!” with surprise “drop-ins” at the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror that are even more frightening and pulse-racing than ever before! The Tower of Terrors’ new lighting effects will also bring unexpected frights to guests as they dare to step aboard the spooky elevator.

“Summer Nightastic!” also means music! In the Courtyard of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith, the ”Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance Party” will have guests waiting to “trip the light fantastic” to sizzling summer sounds being spun by DJ’s. Also, on board the summer music scene is Epcot® as they bring back the “Sounds Like Summer Concert Series” with bands playing musical tributes to the artists who filled summer’s past with musical magic.

And of course, Disney’s “Summer Nightastic!” would not be complete without the famous fireworks! Magic Kingdom® Park will treat guests to “Summer Nightastic Fireworks Spectacular.” Guests will watch in awe as vivid colors and brilliant visual affects light up the night sky. Whimsical music will also add to the glamour of the night as it is set perfectly to the sounds of the fireworks exploding in the air.

Epcot Update

2010-04-30T11:21:05-04:00

Epcot® seems to be the newest Disney theme park getting a bit of a makeover. The Disney fan boards have been inundated with rumors about updates concerning the World Showcase Pavilion at Epcot® in the Walt Disney World® Resort. But what exactly are these updates? Or are they all just rumors and an April Fool’s Joke? There are two updates to Epcot® that we can confirm are not rumors: the new pizzeria in the Italy Pavilion and the Cantina de San Angel restaurant in the Mexico Pavilion.

The Italian pizzeria will have fantastic and authentic hand-made pizza just as it’s made in Italy. Special water is being flown in to create the dough so that the taste is as original as possible. When you go to eat at this pizzeria, which will have a beautiful yet casual décor and environment, as do most Disney restaurants, so you can enjoy great food with your family without having to worry about changing to formal attire after a crazy day in the park.

Over at the Mexico Pavillion, the Cantina de San Angel is expanding into a full size restaurant. You can still expect the great food and margaritas, but the menu will expand and you can enjoy the air conditioning in the warmer months and a controlled climate in the cooler months. The food in the Mexica Pavilion is always good and the Cantina de San Angel will be no different.

But is there another country coming to the World Showcase Pavilion? There is a rumor that Disney is handing out surveys to guest asking which country they would like to see added and which they wouldn’t mind seeing removed. People on the message boards were furious Disney would consider removing a country, but we’re here to assure you they’re probably just seeking which country pavilion needs improvement. There are apparently 7 lots Epcot® can use to add countries, so the possibilities are endless!

With the new restaurant additions in Italy and Mexico do you think it’s true that Disney will be adding another pavilion? It would definitely boost Epcot® in comparison to the massive expansion the Magic Kingdom® Park is getting. We have our fingers crossed!

New Toy Story Mania Game Featuring Toy Story 3 Characters

2010-05-05T09:56:29-04:00

Attention Disney lovers! If you’re a fan of the highly popular Toy Story Mania! attraction at Hollywood Studios, there’s about to be a few changes coming in May. New characters from the soon-to-be-released Disney Pixar film “Toy Story 3” are being added to the joyful, toy-full adventure of Toy Story Mania! In addition to playing with new characters in Toy Story Mania! there will be opportunities for up-close fun with the all-new characters from “Toy Story 3”.

Starting in late May, the famous characters of Toy Story 1 and 2 will be joined by a whole new set of characters from the new Disney Pixar film, Toy Story 3. New game greeting guests, “Rex and Trixie’s Dino Darts,” invite riders to shoot their virtual darts at all-new balloon targets in a primeval world filled with volcanoes and lava balloons.

As in the original Toy Story Mania attraction, game players are welcomed by Rex (the nervous Tyrannosaurus rex) and now will be met with Trixie (a blue Triceratops and one of the toy characters from the new film) cheering them on. The new game, which replaces “Bo Peep’s Baaaa-loon Pop”

Other changes include: The “Hamm & Eggs” game will now be hosted by Hamm and Buttercup (a toy unicorn with heart-shaped nostrils). Also, in the prize scene, Trixie, Buttercup, Dolly (a doll), Mr. Pricklepants (A leadhosen-clad hedgehog) and one other surprise—all from Toy Story 3—will appear with Woody and Jessie.Sue Bryan, Senior Show Producer, Director, and Walt Disney Imagineering, said, “Our number-one goal in creating Toy Story Mania! was to come up with game-play challenges appropriate for all guests, from little kids to serious gamers. I love that we are keeping things fresh and new by adding these great new friends and fun to join some of the most popular characters of all time.”

Toy Story Mania—the 4-D interactive ride-game is extremely popular with Walt Disney World guests. The high-energy adventure puts players squarely in the action as their game play triggers surprises that deliver a fourth dimension of fun. Toy Story Mania! Engages guests in a whole new way with delightful characters of “Toy Story” and “Toy Story 2”

Designed by Walt Disney World Imagineering and inspired by the “Toy Story “movie, the original Toy Story Mania! officially opened on May 31st, 2008. At the time park guests wore 3-D glasses and boarded spinning vehicles that traveled through virtual environments. Since it’s opening, Toy Story Mania! Has been one of the most popular and most frequented rides in Hollywood Studios. And now with the newest additions to the attraction and the fourth dimension capabilities, Toy Story Mania! is sure to continue its popular reign.

Star Wars Fans Can Attend Last Tour to Endor

2010-05-10T16:31:25-04:00

Attention Star Tours and Star Wars fans, if you don’t already know, after two decades of interstellar travel, Disney World is planning to relaunch the one-of-a-kind entertainment ride with a new 3-D version. LucasFIlm has announced a special event to celebrate the end of the original Star Tours ride: “an out-of-this-world, first-of-its-kind decommissioning party before Star Tours launches sits final flights.”

Coinciding with Star Wars Celebration V, the biggest Star Wars party in the galaxy, which takes place August 12-15, is an opportunity for guests to have the option of being among the first to be the last to ride Star Tours before its October closure to be converted into a newer version of the attraction. The “Last Tour to Endor” event will take place on August 14 and is an after-hours event taking place from 8 p.m. until 1 a.m. at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. Though the party starts at 8:00 p.m., Last Tour ticket holders will be allowed early entrance to Hollywood Studios at 4:00 p.m. where they can be sure to secure a seat on one of the Starspeeder 3000’s final voyage!

This special Disney event, which requires a separate ticket for entry, will feature specially-themed party zones, Star Wars shows, a “Death Star Disco” (which might have something to do with Star Wars Weekends “Hyperspace Hoopla”) and “Symphony in the Stars,” a Star Wars themed fireworks show. Tickets for the event are on sale now and cost $75 per person.

Although the event takes place in August and is called “Last Tour to Endor,” the attraction is not closing for refurbishment immediately following the event. It will close this October and will re-open in 2001 as Star Tours II.

The original Star Tours is a full-motion flight stimulator that represents the collaboration between Disney and George Lucas. It first opened in Disneyland Resort in 1987 and Walt Disney World opened its own version with what was then called the Disney MGM Studios in 1989.

On the ride, guests are space tourists en route to the forest moon Endor, operated by pilot droid Rex. But of course, the flight plan doesn’t go as scheduled and the ride becomes very interesting. It is based on the third film of the Star Wars saga, Return of the Jedi.

Plans to re-image Star Tours have been in the works since 2005, and were confirmed at Star Wars Celebration III. Star Tours II is anticipated to feature a starspeeder scene through the Tatooine desert canyons, based on Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. So, put on your favorite Star Wars costume and join your fellow fans for the ultimate Star Wars party “Last Tour to Endor.”

American idol Experience Attraction Celebrates First Year and Shows Top Five Finalist

2010-05-11T17:38:55-04:00

“The American Idol Experience” attraction at Walt Disney World recently celebrated its first year of operation in February 2010. And now “The American Idol Experience” is celebrating the success of one of its top vote-getters—Aaron Kelly! The 17-year old singer from Sonestown, Pennsylvania, who began his “American Idol” journey at the Disney Parks attraction, advanced to the Top Five in the finals during season nine of the “American Idol” show.

“The American Idol Experience” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, is the first and only theme park attraction in the world based on the hit show “American Idol”. At the attraction, guests age 14 and older can audition before Disney producers and directors to see if they have what it takes to perform on stage that day. If the guest’s try-out is successful, they are guided through performance coaching sessions, cosmetology and stage rehearsals to prepare for their big moment on the theme park stage. Winners of the “American Idol Experience” will then perform live to a hit tune in the theme park’s 1,000 plus seat theatre.

Just like on the real “American Idol” show, judges provide critique and audience members determine who will advance to the attraction’s final show that night. At the grand finale, the top vote-getter is awarded a “Dream Ticket” that allows an eligible guest to schedule a front of the line audition at one of the regional auditions for the “American Idol” show.

This is exactly how Aaron Kelly began his road to stardom.

In February 2009, only four days after “The American Idol Experience” opened, Kelly performed for park guests and judges. As he passed the audition stages and received the most votes at his preliminary show, Kelly performed a rendition of the Lonestar hit song, “Amazed.” Kelly’s interpretation of the popular song earned him an “American Idol Experience” “Dream Ticket” which allowed him an audition for the ninth season of “American idol”

From there Kelly utilized his “Dream ticket” and scheduled his audition in Orlando, FL. Now Kelly is a Top Five finalist on “American Idol”. Walt Disney World and the “American Idol Experience” couldn’t be more proud.

“American Idol” was put on Entertainment Weekly’s end-of-the-decade list saying, It’s given us Kelly, Carrie, Daughtry and J Hud. Idol rules the reality rules because the winners of Fox’s ratings judgment actually do go on to greatness…”

Kelly is well on his way to musical greatness as he competes for the top spot on the popular television series. And it all started at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios with the “American Idol Experience” attraction. You too can make all your dreams come true as the “American Idol Experience” doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.

Disney Announces Name and Launches Website for New Family Destination Resort in Oahu

2010-05-12T10:53:41-04:00

Disney World’s kingdom is expanding—to Hawaii! The highly anticipated Disney resort located on the island of O’ahu in Hawaii, is expected to bring entertainment, joy and excitement to its guests just like Disney theme parks. And with its recent name reveal, this resort is bound to be the epitome of luxury and relaxation.

The resort’s name Aulani, a Disney resort and Spa, Ko Olina, Hawaii reflects the company’s deep commitment to celebrating the island’s rich history and traditions.

“We want this resort destination to reflect the vibrant culture that surrounds it. The name ‘Aluani’ expresses a connection to tradition and deep-story telling and its roots are here in this land. We’re so grateful to the local Hawaiians who led us to the discovery of this name, and our goal is to live up to its name,” said Rohde, Senior Vice President, Creative for Walt Disney Imagineering.

Aluani translated from the Hawaiian language to English means, “the place that speaks for the great ones” or “the place that speaks with deep messages.”

Aluani will be located on 21 acres of oceanfront property on in the Ko Olina Resort and marina development and is close to historical sites on the western side of O’ahu. The resort is planned to have 360 hotel rooms and 481 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club Villas.

Like all Disney resorts, Aluani will be designed with families in mind and will include pools and sunset facing hot tubs, a snorkeling lagoon, a variety of kids’ club and other programs or children, a river, suitable for tube floating, running through a specially created volcanic outcropping.

And speaking of things for families to do, the resort will also be the host to an 18,000-square-foot spa and will boast two restaurants, a 14,545 square-foot conference center and 48,685 square feet of outdoor venues. Nearby are the existing Ko Olina Marina and a Ted Robinson-designed, 18-hole Championship Golf Course.

For future guests wanting to learn more about the Disney resort, Disney has just launched a new preview web site, http://www.DisneyAulani.com The site also details some of the fabulous amenities and includes conceptual art, descriptions of resort highlights, regularly updated resort information and photos of Aulani as it nears completion.

“We are looking forward to welcoming guests to Aulani to share the fun, immersive family vacation experiences Disney is known for combined with the beauty and culture of Hawaii. We are turning to the Hawaii culture for inspiration in everything we are doing at Aulani, and we hope our guests will not only enjoy the Disney experience, but will also embrace the unique culture of Hawaii and its diverse people, “ said Djuan Rivers, Vice President, Disney Vacation Club and Resort, Hawaii.

Kathryn Beaumont remembers Being Wendy

2010-05-14T09:30:48-04:00

The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco is currently showcasing Peter Pan in a special exhibition from April 17 to June 27. It will also be celebrated as the Museum’s film of the month in May.

The exhibition will include 16 original concept drawings by renowned Disney artist Mary Blair, which were loaned to the Museum by the Walt Disney Animation Studios Research Library. 1930s Character sketches, storyboard outlines, original concept art, model sheets, and vintage posters from the collection of the Walt Disney Family Foundation will also be on display.

Also for the viewer’s enjoyment is a first-edition copy of the play by J.M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up”. Alongside the first-edition will be a “final treatment” of the Disney film dated March 1946. Both will be opened to the same moment in the story, where Wendy learns that Peter can fly.

Speaking of Wendy, Disney fans will get the chance to meet the voice of Wendy in “Peter Pan” as well as Alice of Walt Disney’s ‘Alice in Wonderland,” at the Disney Family Museum Saturday, May, 22nd at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are available online at the Museum’s official website.

And if you can’t make it to the Bay Area in May, Kathryn graciously sat down with the Disney Fans Insider to give her recollections of recording “Peter Pan: and working with Walt Disney.

“It was a wonderful experience. There were so many pluses wit working with Walt Disney and the Studio,” Kathryn recalls. “They were already in production for ‘Peter Pan’ while they were working on ‘Alice,’ and I was about adolescent age, just as Wendy was. It was another British project, and with my British accent it just seemed a given! They were pleased with what I had done for the reference work as well as the voice of Alice, so they wanted me to continue and play the part of Wendy.”

As Kathryn prepares to visit The Walt Disney Family Museum, she is pleased to find “Peter Pan” is still so beloved—but she’s not at all surprised. “I think it’s a wonderful fantasy, but it’s also this great adventure. There’s so much for children to identify with. There’s something going on all the time, and the music is fabulous!” she says.

For those of you unable to make it to San Francisco this month, get your fill of Peter Pan at Walt Disney World’s Peter Pan’s Flight ride, located in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom. The ride takes you on a journey through the classic fantasy land of Peter Pan. Soar through Never Land Island sweeping past the Lost Boys camp, Mermaid Lagoon and Skull Rock and back into your childhood!

Grand Welcome for Pow Wow

2010-05-17T14:07:41-04:00

Orlando is rolling out the red carpet this week as international travel buyers start arriving for one of the tourism industry’s most celebrated trade shows, the U.S. Travel Association’s International Pow Wow.

Tourism businesses and agencies use Pow Wow to promote themselves and their destinations to foreign travel companies and tour operators, but historically the trade show is especially lucrative for the host city, which can showcase its tourist industry first-hand. For Orlando, whose home to the most popular theme parks in the world, this opportunity couldn’t be any more perfect.

While the show, based in the Orange County Convention Center, is relatively small in terms of attendance, it’s the quality, not the quantity, of the crowd that puts Pow Wow high on the priority list. Travel buyers from 90 countries are expected to attend. The event begins on Sunday but some of the 5,000 guests were expected to arrive on Friday night.

This year’s preparations in Orlando focused on giving delegates the royal treatment. About 250 volunteers are being enticed by free tickets to SeaWorld’s Aquatica water park as they help handle everything from customs at Orlando International Airport to directing visitors up and down International Drive. Local tourism officials planned to meet with Orlando taxi drivers to remind t hem of the long-term importance of these particular guests, and are encouraging other businesses to keep hospitality top of mind.

Orlando, which hosted Pow Wow in 2006, has a lot of new things to highlight this year, including Universal Orlando’s soon-to-open Wizarding World of Harry Potter, SeaWorld Orlando’s Aquatica, and Walt Disney World’s Toy Story Mania ride and American Idol Experience Show. New luxury hotels such as the 1,400 room Hilton Orlando next to the convention center and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando near Disney are likely to house many Pow Wow guests.

Disney, in fact, is the host of the kickoff event, an after-hours party Sunday in the Magic Kingdom theme park. Guests will get an overview from Disney’s “Imagineers” of the company’s planed makeover of Fantasyland.

“It’s an opportunity for them to experience our attraction and our food-and-beverage offerings,” said Bryan Malenius, a Disney spokesman.

Universal and SeaWorld are also hosting Pow Wow events.

With the world’s major theme parks, tons of shows and attractions and now the Pow Wow event, Orlando is sure to be jam-packed this coming weekend and next week. If you’ll be in town for this major tourism show, make sure you take advantage of the deals the theme parks are sure to be offering. And if you can, sign up to be a Pow Wow volunteer and enjoy free tickets to SeaWorld’s Aquatica. Now that’s a good deal!

Sea World and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund Participates in Bald Eagle Release

2010-05-19T09:36:24-04:00

Sea World and Busch Gardens are known for their many contributions to wildlife conservation. From rescuing animals to protecting endangered species, both parks are well versed in animal preservation. And this past Friday the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund participated in the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey release of an American Bald eagle. This was the 396th rehabilitated bald eagle the Center has released since its inception in 1979.

The bald eagle was released from the Palm Cemetery in Winter Park by Rob Yordi, a representative for the Fund. The Cemetery was very close to the location of its rescue in January, making the spot a perfect place to re-release the bird into the wild. When the adult female eagle was captured she had puncture wounds and a fractured coracoids—a bone in its right shoulder—that Center specialists believe it obtained during a territory fight with another eagle.

“The SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund is proud to have provided $60,000 in grants to the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey since 2004,” said Yordi. “The Center’s work to rescue, rehabilitate and return birds of prey to the wild and to protect their habitats is vital to Florida’s ecosystems and the wide range of species in the region.”

The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund is a private, non-profit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting wildlife preservation, research, education and animal rescue. The Fund was created in May 2003 to allow visitors to SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove to supplement the contributions of those parks to wildlife conservation and research. The Funds grantees include global organizations such as World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy, and Conservation International along with smaller, grassroots organizations. The organization’s mission is, “To work with purpose and passion on behalf of wildlife and habitats worldwide, encouraging sustainable solutions through support of species research, animal rescue and rehabilitation and conservation education.”

In addition to species-specific work, the organization is focusing more and more of its resources to help tackle a select handful of timely environmental challenges like healthy oceans, sustainable forestry, illegal wildlife trade, and the bushmeat crisis (“bushmeat is a term that applies to all wildlife species used for meat including but not limited to” elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees and other primates; forest antelopes; crocodiles; porcupines; bush pigs; pangolins; and monitor lizards).

You can be sure the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund will continue to rescue and protect Florida’s wildlife for many years to come. The capture and re-release of the bald eagle is just one example of what the Fund does on a daily basis.

For more information and to donate or get involved with the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund visit www.swbg-conservationfund.org.

Universal Orlando Welcomes Family Feud Game Show

2010-05-20T17:49:27-04:00

Survey says… Universal Orlando Resort is proud to welcome one of the most familiar game shows in the country, Family Feud! Starting this summer, Universal will be home to the popular game show as it leaves it’s home in Los Angeles and settles into the theme park mecca that is Orlando.

Executive producer Kevin Williams cited several reasons for moving the game show from Los Angeles, but the chief one is that entertainer Steve Harvey is becoming host.

“Everything is being geared around him,” Williams said in an interview. “He’s based in Atlanta. It’s a 45-minute flight for him to Orlando.”

Aside from the convenience for Steve Harvey, Williams also sees potential in the Orlando market.

“If you’re not shooting in Las Angeles, Orlando studios are a good alternative. Universal is so well set up with marketing. And the audience comes from all over the country and the world. That suits our brand.”

FremantleMedia, which produces Family Feud and American Idol, knows Orlando has a lot to offer from the American Idol Experience at Walt Disney World.

The game show is set to tape 165 episodes from July through September on Sound Stage 19 at Universal Orlando Resort. Episodes will be staged Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays to accommodate Harvey, who hosts a radio show from Atlanta. Family Feud will produce four to eight episodes a day.

Universal Orlando is expected to play up Family Feud in promotions to bring more guests to the resort.

“We did a dynamic change last year. We looked for audience-based television opportunities for guests to see live television,” said Pamela Tuscany, vice president of production.

Williams expects an energized audience looking for something similar to getting on a ride, something that is much different than in Los Angeles. For Orlando residents, you won’t have to be a theme-park guest to see a taping.

“We have to construct an experience,” Williams said. We want Steve to connect with families and get his comedy out.”

This is the fourth host for the popular game show. Richard Dawson hosted the show in the 1970’s, which has been running in syndication for eleven years. After Dawson, Louie Anderson took over from 1999 to 2002 before Home Improvement star, Richard Karn replaced him in 2002. Current host John O’Hurley took over after Karn and has been hosting since 2006.

Universal Orlando seems to be the perfect place for Family Feud to start their surveys! With so many vacationers and travelers that frequent the theme park, it won’t be hard to find a family of five willing to partake in one of the most exciting game shows around. And if you happen to be in Orlando this summer, you could be one of those families.

This Summer SeaWorld Stays Up Late

2010-05-25T12:36:20-04:00

If you’ve ever seen illuminations at Epcot or Magic Kingdom than you already know Orlando theme parks know how to put on a nighttime show. And this summer, SeaWorld holds its own with some impressive nightastic events!

Stay up late this summer with SeaWorld as they welcome back their annual After Dark shows and hours. The new SeaWorld hours begin May 29 and end August 15.

SeaWorld After Dark transforms daytime favorites into nighttime spectacles! SeaWorld After Dark showcases the park in a whole new light; with nighttime rock ‘n’ roll extravaganza, a high-energy Shamu show, a hilarious sea lion show and a mystifying fireworks finale. Plus, guests will still get to experience all that’s awesome during the day, like Manta, up-close animal encounters and spectacular shows.

First up for the after dark park experience is the show Shamu Rocks which is a spectacular rock ‘n’ roll killer whale show. Shamu Rocks is a high energy concert, combining killer whales with a stunning light show and music from some of the hottest rocks stars in the industry. And this year, the popular show will be presented without trainers being in the tank with the whales. This is sure to be an exciting adventure, as the whales have never before performed live without the assistance of a trainer.

At the Sea Lions Tonite show, the popular Sea Lion comedic duo will have you in a ball of laughter as hilarious hijinks and the talented sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite shows and attractions.

And to end the spectacular evening, a fireworks and fountains finale called Reflections, which is best seen from seats at Bayside Stadium, will illuminate the night sky. Guests will be amazed at the majestic beauty the fireworks and fountains create. Through the thrilling and inspirational music of SeaWorld’s shows, Reflections lights up the night like never before.

If you want to be a part of the VIP club, join the After Dark VIP tour. This seven-hour, guided tour includes dinner and an opportunity to feed dolphins, front-of-line access to Manta and reserved seating at the exhilarating night shows.

And if you’re wondering what it’d be like to ride some of SeaWorld’s most popular rides at night, you can soon find out how thrilling it is! Guests will be able to enjoy all of SeaWorld’s rides, including the brand-new Manta flying roller coaster. Experience what it’s like to spin, glide, skim and fly with the largest stingrays when riding Manta, by moonlight. Plus, the After Dark events are included in the price of a regular SeaWorld ticket.

If seeing the ocean’s most fascinating animals at night exhilarates your senses, then make sure you visit SeaWorld for the After Dark events starting on May 28.

Star Wars Weekends are Finally Here

2010-05-26T09:42:37-04:00

In a galaxy not so far away, Jedi Masters, Sith Lords, Ewoks and other popular Star Wars characters will soon celebrate one of the most amazing pop culture phenomena around! The Star Wars Weekends are finally invading Walt Disney World beginning May 21. The force will be with Star Wars fans for four consecutive days ending June 13.

A unique partnership with Lucasfilm led to the event’s official inception in 2000, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios is set for its 10th year of hosting Star Wars Weekends in honor of the 30th anniversary of “The Empire Strikes Back.” Actor Jeremy Bulloch, who portrayed bounty hunter Boba Fett in Episodes V and VI as well as Captain Cotton in Episode III, will co-host the event with Ashley Eckstein, the actress who voices Ahsoka Tano in ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars.”

Other intergalactic celebrities from the films including Ray Park (Darth Maul), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian), Temuera Morrison (Jango Fett, Commander Cody), and James Arnold Taylor (Obi-Wan Kenobi/”Star Wars: The Clone Wars”) will join Jeremy and Ashley in signing autographs, taking photos and mingling. FASTPASSes for celebrity autographs and photos are available for guests who arrive early.

The celebrities are also scheduled to appear at numerous venues including the “Legends of the Force” celebrity parade, the “Star of the Saga” talk show, the “Padawan Mind Challenge” trivia contests for kids, and a special end-of-day experience, “Hyperspace Hoopla.” As guests roam the park they will be welcomed by surprise celebrity greetings, featuring cast and crew who worked on ‘The Empire Strikes Back” 30 years ago.

Two of Hollywood Studios permanent Star Wars attractions—Star Tours and the Jedi Training Academy-- are sure to be packed this weekend, as die-hard fans get the opportunity to face off with the evil Darth Vader himself. Also available for the fans are plenty of Star Wars swag to commemorate the special occasion, including special-edition pins. Disney Pin Collections are always a popular must-have and according to Steven Miller, Project Manager for Disney trading, the community’s already abuzz with anticipation. “Based on feedback from our Facebook page and the Disney Parks blog, people can’t wait. The pins we create year after year are always fabulous, but it’s especially true this year because of the excitement around the 30th anniversary of ‘The Empire Strikes Back.’ It’s a film loved by millions.”

The beloved event starts in one day and you can be sure Star Wars fans from all over the country will flock to Hollywood Studios to be a part of the intergalactic event. We suggest getting to the park early to ensure you get to experience all the weekend has in store. May the force be with you!

Rock n Roller Coaster Reopens

2010-05-28T11:19:33-04:00

The thrilling Hollywood Studios roller coaster, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster ride at Walt Disney World, reopens Friday, just in time for the busy Star Wars Weekends opening. The ride was closed for one week for refurbishments and is now ready and waiting for all thrill seeking, roller coaster lovers!

Unfortunately, riders won’t notice much of a change to Aerosmith’s rockin’ coaster. Most of the work was concentrated on the magnetic launch system, and some other backstage ride system issues. Apparently the exterior guitar refurbishment is running a little behind schedule, and may require another week or so to be completed. Outside of the actual ride, the gift shop received a new floor, while the attraction enjoyed an overall clean up. Other tasks were not completed so guests can expect more downtime to finish up the work in the near future.

For those of you who have never been on Aerosmith’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, you don’t know what you’re missing! With the force of a supersonic F-14, this coaster accelerates from a stand-still stop to high speeds before swooping into three inversions and twisting over views of Los Angeles…upside down! It’s simply exhilarating!

But before you can even scream your lungs out from excitement, you’ll actually get a chance to meet Aerosmith as they wrap up a practice session. Step into the G-Force Record studio and get a glimpse of the five Aerosmith members as they get ready for a big concert on the other side of town. And here’s where the plot thickens, the band’s late, their manager is trying to get them on the road and they’ve just invited you to tag along. But there’s a few problems, not everyone will fit into their ride and they’re already late!

Here’s where the coaster comes in. A super-stretch limousine races you and the band across 3,400-feet of roller coaster tracks past Southern California landmarks and slices you through the toughest traffic on the LA freeways. Phew! What a ride.

Not that you’ll have much time to lavish in your seats before your screaming and gripping the person next to you, but each “car” is furnished with a 125 speaker, 24 sub woofer, 32,000 watt, onboard audio system, so your sure to hear rock ‘n’ roll blasting through the speakers as you go from launch to loop at zero to 60 miles per hour in 2.8 seconds. This is one limo ride you won’t forget!

We’re thankful Aerosmith’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster ride is up and running again. We’re not sure we could handle another week without its awesome music and high intensity. Hopefully the ride will remain open all-summer long for guests looking for a thrill!

Walt Disneys Summer Nightastic is Almost Here

2010-06-01T14:52:38-04:00

There’s only one more week before Walt Disney World’s Summer Nightastic takes over the park! The spectacular sparkling show begins on June 6th through August 14th and will feature more than half a million lights sparkling to “electro synthe-magentic sounds”. Guests will also enjoy a tale of adventure and mystery told through pyrotechnics, the sounds of popular bands through the years, new sights and thrills at Hollywood Tower Hotel and a dance party featuring glow and rock ‘n’ roll.

As previously reported, the return of Main Street Electrical Parade to Magic Kingdom will make Summer NIghtastic that much more exciting! This is the first time since 2001 that the parade has made its way down the streets of Magic Kingdom. Guests will be excited to see floats like Tinker Bell and Pinocchio for the first time in Florida. On its hiatus from Florida, the parade was moved to California where it played at Disney’s California Adventure. Excited to have the parade back in Florida, the opening electronical show will even feature the return of its original voice, the late Jack Wagner.

With the bright lights and parades come fireworks! “Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular will be a spectacular display of fireworks above the Magic Kingdom! This special fireworks show celebrates the Magic kingdom’s nighttime transformation to a place of greater mystery and adventure. The kids are up past their bedtime and thre’s a special wonder in the air, explained Chris Oyen, show director for the Summer NIghtastic! Fireworks Spectacular.” The show’s nighttime finale is expected to include elements of the “Magic, Music, Mayhem” presentation that was part of the Pirate and Princess parties. One of the more thrilling parts of the fireworks show will be the use of perimeter launches in displays that will make guests feel surrounded. Traditionally those effects are used in displays for the Magic Kingdom’s holiday parties and visual effects that will make it seem as though the castle is under siege.

Summer Nightastic! doesn’t just end at the Magic Kingdom, over at Hollywood Studios mulch, Sweat and Shears will get the nighttime party started and keep the music pumping five nights a week at the Rock N Glow Party. And if you’re looking to let loose and put on your dancing shoes, head over to the Sorcerer’s hat icon where you can expect a high energy dance party beginning three hours before the park closes. DJs, pyrotechnic effects and visits from Disney characters will all be at the dance party.

Even Epcot is getting in on the action with a Summer Concert Series featuring tribute bands celebrating the music of The Rolling Stones, U2 and the Eagles. Enjoy everything from lights, parades and music this summer as Disney hosts Summer Nightastic!

SeaWorld Rescues 303rd Turtle of Year

2010-06-02T11:00:53-04:00

If you’ve ever been to SeaWorld you know the majority of the entertainment in the park revolves around marine animals and oceanariums. SeaWorld is set on rescuing and preserving endangered wildlife, so it should be no surprise to you that this aquatic theme park has once again rescued an endangered sea creature from the perils of the ocean.

SeaWorld Orlando officials said they rescued their 303rd sea turtle on May 6 on the shore near Ft. Myers. The 270-pound loggerhead was seen floating to one side for several days. Emaciated and covered in barnacles SeaWorld officials believe the turtle’s condition was most likely caused by ingesting a foreign object.

SeaWorld’s Animal Rehabilitation Center quickly began removing the barnacle and treating the turtle with antibiotics. Veterinarians performed X-rays in search of internal injuries.

According to the SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue Team, the sea turtle is doing better and has begun eating on his own. They hope to release him back to San Carlos Bay near Ft. Myers once he is completely stabilized.

SeaWorld is a global leader in the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles. And although they are constantly rescuing sea turtles in need, SeaWorld believes it’s just as important to return the creatures to their natural habitat as it is to rescue them from trouble. Of the 303 rescued turtles this year, more than 240 have been returned. Loggerhead sea turtles begin nesting now and continue to do so through the end of August.

Rescuing sea life and animals in general is one of SeaWorld’s many passions. Since 1965 SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment have rescued more than 17,000 stranded, sick or injured animals including endangered and threatened species. With a collection of 10 parks including Busch Gardens, Aquatica, Adventure Island and more, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment are dedicated to animal preservation and research. In fact SeaWorld’s commitment to conservation, research and animal rescue was recently formalized with the creation of the non-profit SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund.

Providing up-close exotic animal encounters with dolphins, captive ocra, sea lions and more, plus roller coasters and thrill rides, SeaWorld Parks is a leader in theme park entertainment and animal preservation.

Now you can help save and protect loggerhead sea turtles for just 5 bucks. It’s a great feeling knowing that SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment are doing everything they can to save wildlife in their community and all over the world.

The Worlds Largest Swimming Lesson and World record Attempt at Typhoon Lagoon

2010-06-07T15:06:10-04:00

It looks like one of Orlando’s most popular water parks just hosted one of the biggest water safety courses in the entire world and thousands showed up to take part in the historical event!

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is an event that was being presented by a coalition of the nation’s leading water safety and training organizations, including the World Water Park Association. The swimming event took place at Walt Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park on June 3 beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Created as a platform to help aquatic facilities and the many different water safety and drowning prevention organizations to work together to communicate the fundamental importance of teaching children to swim, the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is an excellent source for those learning to swim and parents interested in learning how to stay safe while in the water. The event culminated National water Safety Month—a month long initiative that took place in May to support ongoing public education on water safety and always being water aware.

More than 150 aquatic facilities, From Walt Disney World’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park to swim schools in Orange County, California, to community centers in the Bronx, as well as locations as far reaching as Zambia, Lebanon, Dubai , and the USAG Humphreys in South Korea participated in the event. Starting at 10 a.m. on Thursday, all aquatic facilities across the globe hosted WLSL lessons simultaneously in an attempt to break the Guinness World record.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park was designated as the official headquarters location for the international event.

Gold Medalist’s Rowdy Gaines and Janet Evans attended the event to help convey that loss of life from drowning can be prevented through awareness and training. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintended, injury-related death for children ages 1-14. Research shows that if a child doesn’t learn to swim by the third grade they probably never will.

Gaines, who is an 11-time world record holder and “voice of American swimming” for the Olympic Games, was master of ceremonies for the WLSL event at Typhoon Lagoon. “I’m thrilled to be working with the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson to help spread the word that Swimming Lessons Save lives,” said Gaines. “Learning to swim and the exposure at the water safety messages that swimming lessons offer provide a fundamental first step for drowning prevention.”

On Thursday thousands of children around the globe learned to bob, float, and flutter kick their way into the records books but more importantly they learned the foundation for how to swim and swimming safety. Typhoon Lagoon was proud to be a part of such a monumental event and looks forward to next year’s record-breaking numbers.

Disney Marathon Monday

2010-06-09T12:19:11-04:00

Anybody who has the endurance to run 26.2 miles deserves a reward don’t ‘ya think? Well Disney is about to give the ultimate gift to finishers of the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon. Along with an incredible sense of accomplishment anybody who completes the Walt Disney World Marathon presented by Cigna in 2011 will receive a magical reward: a new Mickey Mouse race medal and a free day at Disney!

In an ongoing effort to encourage guests to celebrate the milestones in their lives at a Disney Park, finishers of the 2011 Disney Marathon on Sunday January 9 will receive complimentary admission to a Walt Disney World theme park the Monday after the race.

But that’s not all! For the first time ever, runners and fans can choose the official 2011 Disney Marathon medal, which will be their unofficial ticket to Disney on “Marathon Monday.” This summer fans can vote for their favorite from three medal design, all created by Jostens Inc., which has designed Super Bowl rings and college football’s prestigious Heisman trophy. Voting will be held online and the medal with the most votes will become the official medal of the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon.

Voting has already begun and runs through July 28 at disneyworldmarathon.com. The winning medal will be announced in August. “Running 26.2 miles is quite an accomplishment even if you’re energized by Disney Entertainment along the way, so what better way to celebrate such an achievement than a complimentary fun-filled day at Disney where you can show off your new medal,” said Faron Kelley, director of marketing for Disney Sports. “These new features are just more ways runners and their families can combine their passion for running with a memorable trip to their favorite vacation destination.”

If you’re interested in participating in the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon registration will remain open until race weekend on January 6-9. The Disney Marathon Weekend includes a variety of events for all ages and running abilities like kid’s races, a Family Fun Run 5k, the Goofy Race & a Half Challenge, the Disney Half Marathon and the Disney Marathon, plus the Health and Fitness Expo.

This year’s Disney Marathon Weekend is sure to set record numbers. Last year’s event drew a record 55,500 registered runners from all 50 states and 50 countries. It was Adriano Basto’s sixth consecutive Disney Marathon victory and Lisa Muzutani’s second straight women’s title. Maybe in 2011 you’ll beat Adriano or Lisa or maybe you’ll just beat your own personal time and get a free trip to Disney in the process! For more information on any of the marathon weekend events, go to disneyworldmarathon.com.

Busch Gardens Working On Something Really Big

2010-06-11T16:02:37-04:00

OFT: Busch Gardens Working On Something Really Big

What is the country’s leading roller-coaster filled park up to these days? Questions swirl about construction barriers that have suddenly popped up in the famous park. Rumor has it that Busch Gardens is building something big, very big. We can only hope and guess that this big construction is a roller coaster or a ride with a coaster element. Unfortunately we’ll have to wait a little longer to know for sure what it is as Busch Gardens doesn’t seem to be dishing details just yet.

But that didn’t stop Busch Garden’s visitors from speculating online at what the construction could be. Some posted pictures of a construction barrier and guessed at what was behind that barrier.

The speculation even hit YouTube as a curious Busch Gardens fan posted a construction video of the site that clearly indicates something big is about to happen. Tampa construction permits also indicate a new coaster may be in the works for the theme park.

If this construction was indeed the beginning of a new coaster at Busch Gardens it would be the first coaster to go up since SheiKra opened in 2005.

Spokeswoman Jill Revelle said the park has no announcements, but she acknowledged the new construction barriers. She said there would likely be news release in the fall about what was behind those barriers.

Documents filed with the city’s Construction Services Center offered a bit more detail.

According to the documents the department’s Dave Jennings said Busch Gardens completed support pads for a coaster in October. Jennings said it was for a second floor for a new coaster ride.

“They haven’t applied for a permit for the coaster itself, only for the outlying building areas and loading zones for one,” Jennings said.

According to Jennings the theme park applied a year ago to construct four buildings near an old sky ride loading platform maintenance area. Typically Busch Gardens unveils a smaller animal attraction or entertainment venue in the years following a major ride’s debut. For example, since SheiKra opened in 2005 the Orlando theme park added the interactive animal exhibit Jungala in 2008 and the Sesame Street Safari of Fun, a preschool entertainment area that opened this year.

We know something’s up but we just aren’t 100% sure what it is! Hopefully in the fall we will learn more about the construction behind those barriers and what Busch Gardens is really building. And we really do hope what’s behind that wall is a brand-spanking new high-flying, roller coaster. Until then you can still enjoy the thrills, animals and entertainment of this roller-coaster themed park all summer long. And we look forward to reporting on the new happenings in Busch Gardens very soon.

Kate Plus 8 Visit Discovery Cove

2010-06-14T11:22:37-04:00

Reality TV is getting in on the summer theme park action this season as one famous reality family heads South to the theme park mecca of the world!

On the season premiere of Kate Plus 8, Kate Gosselin excitedly raves about how thrilled she is to be back on television and quips about how she’s going to take her eight children to one of Orlando’s popular aquatic theme parks, Discovery Cove.

Looking to provide the most enjoyable vacation for her kids and of course increase the season premiere of her show, Kate skipped over some of Orlando’s other popular theme parks like SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens and headed for Discovery Cove. An excellent choice as Discovery Cove has plenty of fun filled water and land activities the whole family can enjoy.

Discovery Cove is a 30 acre, lush, tropical hideaway where guests can choose between adventure and relaxation the entire day through. Featuring pristine beaches, tropical rivers, snorkeling with exotic fish, vibrant coral reefs, over 250 tropical birds to interact with, 30 other species of exotic birds, and lush secluded grottos, Discovery Cove is a tropical adventure that’ll make you feel like you’re vacationing in the tropics!

One of Discovery Cove’s most thrilling adventures is the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. Guest can enjoy the opportunity to schedule a reservation to “talk, touch play and swim” with bottlenose dolphins. This interactive attraction gives guests a safety orientation and information session to encourage the dolphins to perform behaviors before participating in a one-on-one swim. There are different dolphins packages to choose from including the “Trainer for a Day Package” which includes a 30-minute dolphin session, adding deep water dolphin interaction, private photo sessions, increased time with the dolphin trainers, and a behind the scenes tour.

Another popular attraction is the heated tropical River which runs directly through the aviary and circles the park, allowing Discovery Cove guests to float past an array of the park’s beaches, waterfalls, and rainforest landscapes.

Aside from the plush foliage and wildlife that inhabits the park, Discovery Cove has made many efforts to become “green” by eliminating polystyrene foam and petrochemical-based plastic tableware and experimenting with biodegradable food wares. They are planning to construct their food-service containers and tableware from materials that are organic and biodegradable, including bamboo, vegetable-based starches, corn, and sugar-cane fiber.

Kate and the kids seemed to really enjoy their mini-vacation at Discovery Cove. Frolicking among coral reefs, tropical birds, and dolphins, both the eight little ones and Kate explored the entire park inside and out. With such an amazing array of wildlife and beauty it was no wonder why Discovery Cove was the choice for the season premiere of Kate Plus 8.

Busch Gardens Opens New Kangaroo Exhibit

2010-06-16T17:02:39-04:00

Busch Gardens is adding a little Australia to their park as they open a new kangaroo and wallaby habitat. The new addition to the park is just the newest sign that Busch Gardens is perking up its attractions. Called Walkabout Way, which is located in the bird gardens, will feature some of Australia’s most exotic animals.

Kangaloom is the centerpiece of the new area and will feature the park’s first red and grey kangaroos. Guests will be able to watch timed trainer feedings or buy their own feed and feed and even touch these furry critters. The experience is available to ages 5 and older. As you meander through the new sights and animals, petting and feeding them, you may encounter wallabies hopping right along the sidewalk. That’s right! Wallabies are free to roam and hop right along with you! This is a great way to get an up-close-and personal account of such a magnificent creature.

Australian themed, kangaroos aren’t the only Australian animal that is popping up at Busch Gardens this summer. At Aussie Station, guests will be able to interact with many different exotic Australian animals, including parrots, tawny frogmouths and cockatoos.

“Offering encounters with Australian animals fits into our park’s theme, which is all about connecting guests with the natural world,” said Glenn Young, vice president of zoological operations at Busch Gardens in a press release.

Over at the Kookaburra’s nest, which is a designated area for Australian birds to spread their wings, guests can marvel at the beauty of such birds as the kookaburra, magpie geese, black swan and other native Australian species to the bird collection in the aviary.

“Whether its gorillas, giraffes or kangaroos, animals share important lessons about other cultures and their natural environments,” Glenn said in a press release. “As a renowned zoo, Busch Gardens has the opportunity to introduce guests to exotic animals from all over the globe.”

And they certainly are as Australia walks its way right into the Orlando theme park. This is the perfect opportunity for children to learn more about animals, let alone Australian animals, and their habitats. And who knows, parents might even learn a thing or two about a Kookaburra too! Walkabout Way is included in park admission, and expands the array of animal encounters Busch Gardens has to offer.

This is all a part of big changes coming to the park. There are rumors that a new thrill ride is under construction at the roller-coaster heavy park. Construction between the waterfall feature that closed last month at Rhino Rally and Skyride, which is temporarily closing to get out of the way of construction, has been going on for two months now.

Disney Opens New Dance Club

2010-06-18T10:50:39-04:00

Disney World is known for many things; thrill rides, shows, famous characters, treats and pure excitement, but dance clubs? Not really. Until now!

Disney opened a new dance club last week in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. But before you Orlando club goers get too excited, you should know the average person frequenting this club is families with kids. Its official name is Club 626 Dance Party and Stitch is your official host for the party.

The on-duty VJ at Club 626 keeps t he party going as they spin your favorite tunes and Disney characters such as Goofy, Pluto and of course Stitch come out to join you in a dance or two. The party started on June 5 and will continue to jam through August 14. Guests can enjoy the club from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. every day of the week.

Kids of all ages will love the dance atmosphere Club 626 offers. Famous Disney characters add to the party making it one event your kids won’t want to miss this summer.

Disney isn’t the only Orlando theme park to be hosting special summer activities this year. Both Busch Gardens and SeaWorld boast a summer nights themed event, while Walt Disney World hosts its very own summer nightastic show. Summer Nightastic, which started on June 6, has already wowed its guests with an enchanting light show, high adventure, dance fever and plenty of thrills and chills. The dazzling summer event will entertain audiences until August 14 so make sure you plan a trip to Disney this summer. It’s sure to be magical.

Universal Studios is just days away from opening the highly anticipated The Wizardly World of Harry Potter. Universal’s newest attraction is expected to bring in thousands of Harry Potter fans for its opening weekend on June 18th. Slated as the theme park within a theme park, The Wizardly World of Harry Potter is located right next to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and features places and people from the popular books and movies. New thrill rides, shops and even butterbeer are rumored to be the highlights of the attraction. Buzz around Orlando is that people simply cannot wait for The Wizardly World of Harry Potter to open and neither can we!

It will be hard to rival the opening of Wizardly World but the rest of the Orlando theme parks sure hope to continue bringing in the masses as summer rages on in Central Florida. And with new clubs, night events, and their usual excitement, the theme parks of Orlando won’t be desperate for attention this summer. Orlando is sure to be a thrilling place for the next few months and we hope you get a chance to go visit. They’ll definitely be plenty to see and do!

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Opens

2010-06-21T10:23:52-04:00

It’s finally here! The grand opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando! Stars of the Harry Potter film series greeted elementary school children and ushered them through the gate to Hogsmeade on Friday morning.

For its special debut Universal wrapped the entrance to the land with a giant Hogwarts admission letter, as thousands of park fans gathered in the park and television news helicopters hovered overhead. At about 9:20 the curtains dropped, and much to the audience’s delight and surprise, the stars of Harry Potter emerged from the Hogwart’s Express. The cast greeted a prize-winning class of first-graders from San Antonio, Texas before the entrance to the attraction was officially opened. The class won the Today Show’s Harry Potter contest and couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the grand opening.

In honor of this historical event, Universal set off daytime fireworks over Hogsmead and with a furry of confetti snow the land was opened to guests. Well sort of. A few thousand early-arriving guests were allowed to queue in Lost Continent and Seuss Landing during the ceremony while tens of thousands of anxious guests were held over on the other side of the park, lining up from Jurassic Park all the way back to the Incredible Hulk Coaster. The tens of thousands of guests had to patiently wait for the first crowd to leave the land before they’re journey could begin.

“It’s absolutely jampacked,” said Robert Niles, editor of ThemeParkInsider.com. “The entire Islands of Adventure theme park and City Walk are just one long queue to get into Harry Potter. The number of people here for this is clearly in the tens of thousands. These are passionate fans.”

On Wednesday evening the Orlando theme park held a special celebrity-filled ceremony commemorating the attraction in Islands of Adventure.

Author J.K Rowling was in attendance as Warrick Davis, Professor Flitwick for the Harry Potter films, started the program by conducting Universal Orlando’s “Frog Choir.” Academy-Award winning composer John Williams was welcomed with an uproarious applause as he took the stage with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Williams led the musicians in two numbers from his Harry Potter scores.

Fans from all over the world are expected to flock to the magical land in the coming months. And already one of the signature attractions within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is expected to be thrilling. The Forbidden Journey is a twisting, tilting dark ride through and around Hogwarts castle where audiences will get an in-depth feel of what it was really like in the castle. It’s definitely not an attraction to miss. Where else can the world of Harry Potter come alive as it does in Universal Studios?

After Dark Excitement at Walt Disney World

2010-06-23T10:05:36-04:00

Disney World is all aglow this summer as the annual night activities light up the popular Orlando theme park. The spectacular Summer Nightastic event is in full swing complete with the Main Street Electrical Parade and Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular. The popular nighttime event started June 6 and goes through August 14.

If you’ve been to Disney during the summer than you know Disney stops at nothing to put on a spectacular nightly performance in several of their parks. And this year there are some additional thrills at both Hollywood Studios and Epcot.

At Hollywood Studios, one of the scariest and most popular rides in the park is adding a few new effects and a summer-only drop sequence. We can’t imagine the newest drop, as the current one already scares the daylights out of us, but we can imagine the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror’s new effects will be thrilling! Hollywood Studios is also amping up the dance party with the Rock n’ Glow Dance Party, where a DJ and live rock band pump out popular tunes five days a week.

While most of Disney’s Summer Nightastic Events have already started, Epcot is about to launch the “Sounds Like Summer Concert Series” beginning on June 12. Guests will be able to jam to cover bands like “Stayin’ Alive—A tribute to the Bee Gees,” “Hotel California—A Salute to the Eagles,” “Karin Lawson—A Tribute to Janet Jackson,” “Satisfaction—The Rolling Stones Tribute Band,” “Slippery When Wet—The ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute” and so much more. The concerts will take place each evening through July 31 at the park’s America Gardens Theater in World Showcase. Enjoy hot tunes and cool riffs from “Satisfaction” to “Saturday in the Park.”

And a Disney show isn’t a Disney show without some fireworks! During the Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular guests will be blown away as the sky explodes with vivd color and visual effects that tell a story headlined by fairies and pirates. “With this show we’re making the skies come alive—we’re not just going to immerse you, we’re going to surprise you too” says show director Oyen. The summer fireworks are accompanied by popular scores of classical Disney tunes and theme music from hit films like “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.” Guests will also enjoy watching the Fairy Godmother from “Cinderella” fly around in the night sky as well as other famous fairies in the Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular.

If you’re looking for a fun way for your family to spend the summer, Disney World is the perfect place for you. With an incredible lineup of summer night shows plus the regular Disney excitement, this Orlando theme park has it all.

Director Lee Unkrich Talks Toy Story 3

2010-06-25T17:54:22-04:00

Days away from Disney-Pixar’s Toy Story 3 premiere, Disney sat down with director Lee Unkrich to discuss toys, inspiration and directing the latest installment of Toy Story.

“We made another ‘Toy Story’ because we really loved the characters and their world…no one wanted to let them go. Many years had passed since the second film, so we thought a new story idea was needed, something other than what we originally imagined ‘Toy Story 3’ would be.” Lee felt Toy Story 3 should be a continuation of the first two---almost like all three told one big story. “As a result, it was much more poignant that if we had gone with some other random adventure.”

In the newest talking toy trilogy, Andy is on the verge of going away to college and his childhood toys agonize over what will become of them. But not to fear, the toys find plenty to keep themselves occupied as they take a hilarious excursion to Sunnyside Daycare. And of course the toys have new toys to take on their adventures as Toy Story 3 adds quite a few new faces. Like Lotso Huggin’ Bear, Ken, Stretch, Chatter Telephone, and Big Baby to name a few. During the interview Lee gave brief one-word personality description for each new character. “Ken—shallow, Big Baby—innocent, Mr. Picklepants—pompous. Giving pre-existing toys [like Ken and the Chatter telephone] a personality adds lots of responsibility.”

“Barbie was such a big hit that we knew Ken would be fun. In determining his personality, we wondered what it felt like to be a guy who’s a girl’s toy. He’s really just an accessory to Barbie—no more important than shoes or a purse. Smug yet insecure fit perfectly. Knowing the comic potential, Michael Keaton topped our list…we suspected he’d be hilarious, but Michael actually made Ken much funnier than we ever imagined.”In the end all Lee can hope for iss a connection to the two other movies and an audience who can relate to the story. We think he’ll get that.

“I want audiences to be entertained and feel it’s worthy of sitting alongside the first two ‘Toy Story’ films. Hopefully they’ll also look at their own lives a bit—I think that’s the hallmark of a good story. We’ve explored mortality and the idea of change, hitting different phases of life and coping with it. The characters, both toy and human, go through a lot and find the most important thing for them is family. I hope people can relate to that idea.”

Toy Story 3 open in theaters on Friday, June 18. In the meantime check out Hollywood Studios newest ride, Rex and Trixie’s Dino Darts!

Arabian Nights Welcomes Change

2010-06-28T16:41:08-04:00

Orlando is filled with some of the best entertainment in the world and summertime brings thousands into the theme park mecca to visit Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and more. But for those of you who want a little different, yet still exciting vacation, Orlando has plenty of other attractions to offer. For example, the award-winning #1 dinner show in the world, Arabian Nights.

Arabian Nights recently went through a bit of a facelift at the beginning of the year and we’re proud to say it was well worth the change. Thanks to the contribution of new management and experienced staff members, Arabian Nights made quite a bit of changes to both their food and the overall guest experience.

First up, the food! In the past six months, Arabian Nights has included some new tasty choices into their dinner menu. Guests can now enjoy upgraded seasonal vegetables, a new recipe for the mashed potatoes and a new way to serve the salads to keep them crisp and fresh. The Arabian Nights team was also playing with new entrée recipes, but we’ve yet to hear if those have been perfected yet. But we know what has been perfected in the popular dinner show, the guest experience!

New music and choreography have also been added to the show to provide the guests with the best dinner show experience they will ever have. 5 Alarm Productions now provides the new music, which has been specifically tailored for the show, allowing Arabian Nights to continue to add new stunts and riding disciplines as the horses and entertainers learn new skills throughout the year.

Arabian Nights performs nightly to a crowd of 1,200. Each night guests enter the magical world of Scheherazade, a young girl with a dream of becoming a Princess. Two magical Genies take Scheherazade and the audience on a thrilling and romantic adventure filled with music, lights and daring acts. Guests will delight in watching horseback chases, chariots, Gypsies and more all come to life on the Arabian Nights stage.

More than 60 horses, including Walter Farley’s Black Stallion, who is the main star in the show, gather nightly inside the Palace of Horses, the world’s largest indoor equestrian arena for a permanent show. More than 14 breeds of horses are trained and cared for in the arena exclusively for the show.

After a new menu, and total revamp of the show, Arabian Nights is even more exciting and entertaining than before, if that’s even imaginable. For those of you looking for a break from the theme park scene this summer, take an adventure through this impressive equestrian show. It’ll soon become your favorite entertainment activity in Orlando!

Sea Turtles Flown to SeaWorld and Disney for Rehabilitation

2010-06-30T15:03:55-04:00

SeaWorld is at it again! For the 300 and something time, the aquatic theme park is helping rescue and rehabilitate sea turtles found recently in Mississippi. Both SeaWorld and Disney World are involved in the rehabilitation of these sea creatures and they hope to re-release them as soon as the turtles are better.

Eleven injured Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles found in South Mississippi are now settling in to their new homes at SeaWorld and Epcot Center at Disney thanks to the joint efforts of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation and New Orleans law firm Gauthier, Houghhaling and Williams. The sea turtles were flown in by private jet and are the most endangered of all cheloniids and live in a very restricted range, only nesting along a small part of the coastline in the Gulf of Mexico.

So far this year, SeaWorld has already rescued 300 plus sea turtles when they were stunned by the cold and now will be treating nine of the turtles for pneumonia. The other two turtles will be rehabilitated at Disney World, and all will eventually be released back into the wild. SeaWorld recently rescued their 303rd sea turtle on the shore near Ft. Myers in May. It was a 270-pound loggerhead and was emaciated and covered in barnacle when rescued. The turtle was expected to survive and would be released as soon as it was able to survive on its own.

The Mississippi turtles were found with hooks in their mouths and guts and were immediately brought to the Institute of Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport. Dr. Moby Solangi, executive director of the institute states, “As the habitat is shrinking, the animals are moving closer to shore and they’re looking for food. They were biting on the bait. This is the largest we have ever seen, animals on hooks.”

So far Solangi and his staff have saved 30 turtles out of over 200 found dead. With the help of Solangi, SeaWorld and Disney, these eleven sea turtles are sure to make a full recovery and be back in their natural habitat in no time! According to SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, a sea turtle has a lifespan of 80 years, making their rescue and rehabilitation even more important so they can continue to live out their long lives.

All species of sea turtles are listed as threatened or endangered. Their biggest threat comes from bycatch due to imprecise fishing methods. There is also black market demand for tortoiseshell for both decoration and supposed health benefits. SeaWorld as well as Disney are doing everything in their power to prevent sea turtles from extinction and will continue their efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating the animal.

Fourth of July Rocks at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld

2010-07-02T17:50:58-04:00

Orlando theme parks are amping up the excitement and fireworks this Fourth of July weekend as two of the major parks add even more thrills to their already impressive nighttime events! Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld Orlando are lighting up the night like they never have before and guests are welcome to come enjoy both the nighttime activities as well as the usual daytime fun!

At Busch Gardens fireworks will light up the sky over the theme park on July 3 and 4. That’s in addition to the nightly rock spectacular, Kinetix, each night at 9 p.m. in Busch Gardens’ Gwazi Park. Kinetix brings together live musicians, singers, dancers and artists from around the world for an original, non-stop 30-minute contemporary music and high-energy performances.

During Busch Gardens summer events the park has extended their hours until 10 p.m. July 3 and until 9 p.m. July 4. Now guests can enjoy the thrilling roller coaster rides in the dark, making them even more scary and intense than they already are! Guests can also enjoy spectacular shows, including Jeff Civillico, with his masterful juggling performances. And if you plan on visiting Busch Gardens this summer make sure you get there by August, as the Summer Night’s festivities end August 15

Fireworks are no surprise to SeaWorld’s After Dark revelry but on Independence Day guests can also enjoy the 13th Army Band, Florida National Guard when it performs at Bayside Stadium prior to the fireworks finale. The 40-piece band, known as the Governor’s Own Band, will entertain the audience with classic and current tunes, which will gear them up for the special Fourth of July Reflections show featuring additional fireworks timed to patriotic music.

SeaWorld’s After Dark extravaganza is complete with rock ’n’ roll featuring live DJ’s, special evening shows—including a high energy “Shamu Rocks” a combination of rock concert, laser show and killer whale extravaganza; the hilarious “Sea Lions Tonite” an evening comedy romp with SeaWorld’s Sea Lions, otters and walrus; plus Reflections, the wonderful fireworks finale with music and dancing fountains. And don’t forget to enjoy daytime activities like Manta with its up-close animal encounters and other thrilling rides and shows. But hurry, just like Busch Gardens Summer Nights, SeaWorld’s AfterDark events end August 15.

Both Busch Gardens Summer Nights and SeaWorld AfterDark are included with a day’s paid admission or any annual pass. So make sure you celebrate your freedom with plenty of thrilling rides, patriotic music, and of course spectacular fireworks. Both parks are sure to put on quite a show and you’ll have the entire day to enjoy, even into the night hours! So book your trip now you still have plenty of time to enjoy a long Fourth of July weekend at an Orlando theme park.

Best Friends Pet Care at Walt Disney World

2010-07-06T16:11:18-04:00

Traveling during the summer months can seem like more of a chore than a vacation. Between packing, eating, lodging and keeping count of the kids, there’s always something to worry about. But now Walt Disney World is helping you get rid of one last travel worry before you spend a week at its magical parks. Introducing the Best Friends Pet Care Resort in Orlando!

The one-of-a-kind pet resort comprises more than 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, including 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor space, 10,000 square-feet of covered outdoor runs and play areas, including a private dog park exclusively for the use of pet resort clients and their dogs!

And if you have more than one pet, that’s no problem! The resort will accommodate up to 270 dogs and 30 cats for both daytime and overnight boarding. You can even pick from a wide selection of suite choices for your dog which include air-conditioned indoor rooms, 48-square feet indoor-outdoor suites, and four expansive VIP suites with television, raised bedding and private outdoor yards. If you’re more affectionate with the felines, the resort offers a separate “Kitty City” pavilion, away from the dogs, in two and four bedroom condos.

“Best Friends has long been the industry leader for boarding, and this will be our own crown jewel. We’ve taken the ‘best of breed’ in every category to create the perfect environment for pets,” said Dennis Dolan, President and CEO of Best Friends Pet Care. “Our goal is to ensure that pets staying with us have a fun, action-packed vacation—just like their families vacationing at Disney World.”

The resort also features a grooming salon, which will provide go-home-fresh baths and haircuts for pets; two 1,100 square-foot “camp rooms” for play group and doggy day camp; and a special facility for the boarding of “pocket pets,” such as hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits and ferrets.

While at the resort pet parents can choose from a wide range of a la carte activities for pet guests from one-on-one playtime and social playgroup with other doggy guests, to cuddle time and bedtime stories with staff. Guests can also choose from Ice Cream treats, Bottled Water and Premium/Orthopedic Bedding. As for the felines they can enjoy private playtimes, activity toys in their suites, and treats such as cookies and milk or tuna on a Ritz cracker.

Best Friends Pet Resort is now taking reservations for pet boarding stays beginning August 27, 2010. If you’re going to be visiting an Orlando theme park, especially Disney World and you have a pet or two, you might want to consider this special pet resort, it definitely takes the hassle out of finding arrangements for your pets.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Pass

2010-07-09T17:34:22-04:00

Since its opening on June 18, Islands of Adventure’s newest attraction, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has been a huge success. With guests lining up to get in to the park hours before the park even opens and lines that flow out into the parking lot, Wizarding World of Harry Potter may have a bit of a crowd problem that needs a little controlling.

Lucky for park guests, Islands of Adventure has begun testing a procedure to hand out small return time tickets for entry into the Wizarding World. Much like Disney World’s FastPass idea, these tickets will be handed out at the attraction and will give guests a window of time, like between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to return to the land where you then present your ticket for entry.

We hope this test procedure helps tame the crowds at the popular attraction and allows more people to experience the exciting world of Harry Potter. If it’s anything like Disney’s FastPass, it is sure to be a great help and in the meantime guests wont’ have to wait for hours to get on one ride, instead they can enjoy all of the thrilling rides Islands of Adventure has to offer.

For those of you who have been out of the loop and don’t understand what all the fuss is about over this newest attraction, here’s a little background on Wizarding World of Harry Potter: The new attraction begins within Hogwarts castle, a majestic structure that towers over The Wizardly World of Harry Potter. This attraction is the only place in the world where the wonder and excitement of the Harry Potter books and films come to life and it is expected to change the future of theme park attractions.

As guests venture through Hogwarts castle, they will meet Harry, Ron and Hermione who convince the guests to skip a planned lecture and follow them. Naturally the guests obey and travel by Floo powder, soaring over Hogwarts, escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and so many more exciting adventures.

The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey experience starts as soon as you walk through the gates of Hogwarts. Guests will feel as though they’ve entered the movie as they walk through iconic locations taken from the films. These extraordinary scenes include Dumbledore’s office, Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Gryffindor common room, Room of Requirement, and other locations.

With such amazing rides and sites it’s no wonder crowds are curling around the theme park to see this newest attraction. We can only hope the ticket idea will alleviate the lines and still allow everybody to get a glimpse at Harry Potter’s world.

Captain EO Returns To Walt Disney World

2010-07-12T16:37:06-04:00

Captain EO is back at Walt Disney World! For those of you who remember the classic musical spectacular that thrilled Epcot guests from 1986-1994, then you’ll be excited to learn that the 3-D production has finally returned to its beloved home! Now new audiences can experience the original 3-D masterpiece for the very first time and guests will get a nostalgic look back for longtime fans wanting to see Michael Jackson in a rare performance created for the big screen.

Twenty-four years ago, Michael Jackson teamed up with Disney, producer George Lucas and director Francis Ford Coppola to create a groundbreaking 17-minute 3-D film experience starring Michael Jackson as Captain EO, and featuring Academy-Award winning actress Angelica Huston and a cast of merry, mythical space characters with dual personalities who undergo magical transformations to become Jackson’s electronic band in conquering the forces of darkness. In this spectacular film Jackson performs two original songs.

The characters in Captain EO include Hooter, the little green elephant-like creature who sneezes wild musical notes through his flute-like trunk; Fuzzball, the orange-haired space monkey with butterfly wings; the Geex, a golden-haired, two-faced personality with two left feet, one right foot and two s haggy heads named Idy and Ody; Major Domo whose mirrored silver costume becomes a complete set of drums; and Minor Domo with his sparkling purple torso that turns into an electronic synthesizer played by Hooter.

Thanks to acoustical enhancements made to the theater since the film last played and a new 70mm print of the film will make Captain EO sound better than ever before! The total effect of the new film is that of motion, color and high energy filled with Jackson’s musical brilliance and various illusions to create an exciting and realistic journey in space for the audience.

If you aren’t familiar with the story of Captain EO here s a quick rundown: Captain EO and his crew discover a colorless planet where they are confronted by the Supreme Leader and her forces of darkness. Using the power of music, dance and light to fill the planet and the theater the EO crew turns the black and white land into a magical world of color and happiness.

“Captain EO” is now being presented at multiple times daily at the Imagination pavilion at Epcot. The show replaces “Honey, I Shrunk the Audience” which is planned to return at an undetermined time.

Get a second chance to see Captain EO or, for those of you who have never seen it, enjoy yourselves as Disney and Michael Jackson take you on a colorful journey through music, lights and space! We’re glad Captain EO is back in Epcot to entertain the masses like it did so long ago.

Legoland Florida

2010-07-16T15:40:09-04:00

Rumor has it that Orlando is about to get another theme park and this time the main attraction won’t be roller coasters, movies or sea creatures. Instead, this exciting new Orlando theme park will include building, yes building and guests will have the opportunity to snap pieces together to create their very own works of art. We’re talking Legoland Orlando!

Most of us remember the fun of building our own houses, cars, pets and the like when we were kids with legos and today many of your children, nieces, nephews and grandchildren may also relish in the excitement of snapping legos together to create a masterpiece.

The newest Orlando theme park will be housed in Polk County and will include more than 50 rides, shows and thousands of large models built from popular, interlocking plastic blocks. Many of the highlights of the park will be similar to ones featured in Lego’s Southern California park such as the Fun Town Fire Academy, a driving school, a Duplo play area for younger guests, and a medieval-themed Legoland Castle.

The park is expected to open in 2011 and will sit on the property that once housed Cypress Gardens. Unfortunately the Gardens closed last year but officials say they still plan to include the park’s layout and some of its features into Legoland including the botanical gardens and water ski-shows.

“You can go back into the gardens and enjoy the gardens like you can enjoy them today.” Said John Jakobsen, Legoland’s managing director.

This won’t be the first Legoland in North America there is already one in Southern California and three others in the world. Company officials say they expect 2 million people will visit in its first year. But it is hoping that annual figure grows to 3 million eventually.

Until then, Orlando visitors and residents can still enjoy plenty of theme park fun with Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens and more. A majority of the Orlando parks are featuring summer nights events like Disney’s Summer Nightastic, SeaWorld’s After Dark, and Busch Gardens Summer Nights so there will definitely be plenty of nighttime activity not to mention the regular fun these theme parks bring during the day. And if you or any member of your family is a Harry Potter fan, Universal Studios is still reeling from the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that opened in June. But we suggest you get there early, the lines and crowds have been quite long these days.

It’s due time Orlando got another theme park and we think Legoland Orlando will fit in quite nicely with the rest of the booming theme parks in Central Florida.

Animal Kingdom Welcomes New Residents

2010-07-19T14:16:47-04:00

Walt Disney World’s animals based park is making headlines this week as the newest additions of the park are welcomed into the Disney family!

On July 1, 2010, Animal Kingdom welcomed three baby warthogs, with two baby Scimitar-Horned Oryx preceding them in late June. It is reported that the mommies and babies are doing just fine, and are experiencing some bonding time.

What’s most impressive about the births of the Oryx, is that the animal is completely extinct in the “real world.” It seems as though Animal Kingdom has given mother-nature a wonderful helping hand!

The Scimitar-horned oryx and warthogs should be introduced into Kilimanjaro Safaris soon.

Aiside from the warthogs and Oryx, Animal Kingdom has also recently welcomed a gorilla named Lilly on February 19, 2010. The gorilla was named after the late Alecia Lilly Ph.D. who was a Senior Scientist and VP of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International.

Animal Kingdom and Disney continue its great tradition of successful animal breeding and births and we hope that it continues to bring us animals that are endangered and in need of rescuing. Congratulations Animal Kingdom and we hope to see these new residents on the Safari very soon!

If you just happen to be in Animal Kingdom before the 24th to see the newest additions to the park make sure you stay until dark for an evening of animal entertainment. Each night in July through the 24th, Africa will host a party called The Taste of Africa Street Party. Currently this event is a trial run but if you like it, it could be a permanent attraction in Animal Kingdom!

The party begins each night at the end of Mickey’s Jammin Jungle Parade and runs until park closing. The event will feature Animal Education experiences with the Harambe Wildlife Team, Beer and wine tastings at Tamu Tamu Courtyard, Musical performances by Wasslou, African food vendors, Harambe’s DJ Khalifa spinning tunes, authentic African merchandise, and so much more!

And for more summer night fun make sure you check out Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios as they each have a plethora of fun after dark activities for the whole family to enjoy! At Magic Kingdom the Main Street Electrical Parade will dazzle with festive floats followed by a spectacular fireworks show you won’t want to miss! Over at Hollywood Studios, plunge down the “elevator” shaft of the Hollywood hotel that will feature special new effects for the summer! And at Epcot get your groove on with the summer concert series. Great tribute bands perform classic hits of legendary music icons from now until July 31st.

From animals to fireworks, Disney has it all this summer so make sure you plan your vacation in a Disney park today!

The Sorcerers Apprentice

2010-07-21T11:57:22-04:00

Disney’s latest film, “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” swept into theaters on July 14th with plenty of explosive visual effects, car chases, and the usual thrill that both Disney and Producer Jerry Bruckheimer like to add to their films.

The action-packed comic fantasy-adventure introduces Nicolas Cage as Balthazar Blake, a 1,000 year-old master sorcerer determined to defend mankind from arch-nemesis Maxim Horvath (Alfred Molina). For centuries the two have fought and their rivalry has brought them to modern day Manhattan for a good old-fashioned good versus evil battle. The battle draws in physics nerd Dave Stutler who is completely unaware of his mystical powers. Reluctantly Dave joins Balthazar, who proceeds to school him with a crash course in magic. Together they take on Maxim and a few of the fiercest foes that ever escaped from an ancient urn.

Included in this thrilling and magical movie is a re-creation of the dancing broom sequence from “Fantasia”. Bruckheimer credits the director for making this scene work on-screen. “It was difficult because he original was so inventive, but Jon’s a god storyteller with a great sense of humor…he figured out a way to make it fresh and interesting for audiences using new technology, CGI effects, and music. We’re very happy with the result—he did an amazing job.”

“You need a good idea at the core, which is why ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’ works—it’s based on something that’s classical. We literally built a whole movie around one sequence thanks to a fabulous director, great writers, and actors who fulfilled everyone’s vision of what we dreamed of while developing the project,” said Bruckheimer.

And speaking of the actors, it was a stellar cast that brought that vision, as well as the film’s quirky characters, to life. “Nic’s an imposing, intense, powerful presence…there’s something very strong and masculine about him. It was really important that this sorcerer be an intimidating figure. We always feel safe around the dangerous person who’s on your side more than the nice person. Nic has an edge without losing his sensitivity, heart, and goodness. Most actors draw on elements within themselves that feel right for the character, then pick moments where they can make it their own—and Nic really knows how to do that,” said director Jon Turtletaub.

The “Sorcerer’s Apprentice” is now in theaters but if you’re looking for the inspiration behind the film you can always visit Disney World’s Hollywood Studios where the Sorcerer Mickey Hat sits. The icon is a 122 feet tall tribute to “the magic of show business and the entertainment wizardry of Disney” as well as a remembrance of the classic Disney film “Fantasia”. The Sorcerer’s Apprentice all started at Disney and we look forward to seeing how the film commemorates its legacy.

SeaWorld Takes in Sea Turtles Affected by BP Oil Spill

2010-07-23T10:56:37-04:00

SeaWorld’s Rescue and Rehabilitation Center brought in 19 sea turtles this past week that were affected by the BP spill off the Gulf. The turtles were being examined on Tuesday before their release back into the wild.

The green and Kemp’s Ridley turtles were originally found and cleaned up at the Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach before being transported to SeaWorld where they were examined for health issues.

This is the second wave of oil-affected sea turtles SeaWorld’s veterinarians have inspected in the past few weeks. A few weeks ago twelve Ridley turtles were brought into SeaWorld from Gulfport, Mississippi. The rehabilitation center had to make room for more rescued these animals. Five of those turtles fully recovered and were released off the southwest coast of Florida on July 8th.

The SeaWorld Animal Rehabilitation Program is an important part of SeaWorld’s commitment to conservation, research and education. Through this unique program, the SeaWorld animal department rescues, treats, provides shelter and releases stranded animals. The main objective of the rescue and Rehabilitation Program is to return the rehabilitated animals back into their habitat but when they are in the care of SeaWorld’s Rehabilitation Center they become a valuable scientific resource.

Rescued animals provide insight into their biology and ecology as well as marine animal diseases. This valuable information adds to the pool of information already collected on the animal and is used to conserve threatened and endangered species. In addition, experts can record and study the animal’s diet and metabolism as well as study the effects of pollutants, specifically heavy metals and pesticides, on marine animals. Aside from the rehabilitation of the animal and the data collected from these animals, the community benefits through added awareness of how human actions affect animals. This is the first step toward educating the community about ways to conserve and protect wildlife.

The Animal rescue team is on call 24 hours a day. 365 days a year, and rescues, rehabilitates and releases hundreds of endangered animals each year and is home to the largest manatee rehabilitation facility in the world.

Of the animals rescued and rehabilitated at SeaWorld the most common ones are sea turtles, birds, cetaceans (usually bottlenose dolphins), river otters and sea otters, pinnipeds (seals, sea lions, and walruses), and manatees.

Luckily SeaWorld and their Rescue and Rehabilitation Center were ready and willing to help these endangered sea turtles. Many animals were affected by the Gulf oil spill and we’re sure SeaWorld was glad to help care for both the sea turtles and other suffering creatures. We hope the rest of the sea turtles make a full recovery and can be replaced back into the wild very shortly.

Tower of Terror Celebrates 16th Birthday

2010-07-26T09:51:06-04:00

On the night of October 31, 1939, a freakish thunder-and-lightning storm descended on the Hollywood hills while the elite of the film community found sanctuary in the Hollywood Tower Hotel's elegant lobby. Among those checking in that night were a handsome young couple accompanied by an older, over-worked bellman; and a child actress in blond curls and frilly dress with her stern governess. They were all last seen heading for the elevator. They stepped in, the doors closed, and seconds later the elevator, its passengers, and several sections of the upper stories of the hotel vanished.

If you’ve ever been to Hollywood Studios and been on the stomach-dropping thrill ride The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, you’ve probably heard these words above before. Thrilling and bone-chilling, this story has captivated Disney audiences for 16 years and has lured in more crowds and fans than ever before!

On July 22, 1994 one of the biggest and most thrilling rides ever created by Walt Disney Imagineering opened at Hollywood Studios and it was called the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. The ride forever-changed Disney-Hollywood Studios (then known as MGM Studios) as the Tower of Terror became one of the most internationally recognized and loved attractions in all of Walt Disney World. So popular and like nothing Disney guests had ever experienced before, the creepy ride opened later in California, Paris and Tokyo. Today the Tower of Terror is still one of the most sought after rides in Disney and with so many new additions and surprises to the ride since its opening, there’s no wonder why people still flock to it from around the world!

Throughout its 16 years the “Tower” has gone through numerous changes, as Walt Disney Imagineering continues to create new thrills, drops and surprises to keep anxious guests on their toes! Here are the changes the “Tower” has seen:

“The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror”—July 22, 1994

“The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Twice the Fright”—Mid 1996

“The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Fear Every Drop”—March 1, 1999

“The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Never the Same Fear Twice”—December 31, 2002

“The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Summer Nightastic”—June 6, 2010—August 14, 2010

Happy Sweet 16 Tower of Terror! We hope to see you around for another 16 years and we’re sure you’ll continue to bring all of the frights and scares to the people that visit you. And thanks also to everyone involved at Walt Disney Imagineering! The success of Tower of Terror wouldn’t be possible without you and we are confident you will continue to add the right thrills to this ride for years and years to come!

Sea World and Busch Gardens Grant More than 1 Million to Help Protect Animals

2010-07-28T10:08:09-04:00

Orlando theme parks are doing their part to help protect animals in need as both SeaWorld and Busch Gardens just donated $1 million to ensure animal programs across the country get the funding they need. The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund wants to make sure animals from all over the world will get the proper funding for the support of these organizations.

Since its creation 7 years ago, the Fund has granted more than $7 million to protect wildlife and wild places. That’s $1 million a year and it doesn’t seem like they plan on changing that anytime soon.

The Fund’s board of directors approved the 2010 grants to 95 wildlife protection projects including rescue and rehabilitation efforts of endangered manatees and sea turtles, protection of critical habitats such as the Florida Keys, studies of declining shark populations and education programs that inspire people to care for at-risk wildlife.

“The challenges and pressure facing wildlife and entire ecosystems are greater than ever,” said Brad Andrews, President and Executive Director of the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund and chief zoological officer for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “We identify projects with the greatest potential to positively impact conservation so that every dollar we grant works as hard as possible to protect t he animals.”

The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund has already contributed to several organizations in 2010. Here is a quick list of the projects they have supported:

Preserving the Florida Keys—The Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue Facility rescues and rehabilitates injured wildlife and educates the public on the importance of keeping the environment safe and clean for present and future generations.

San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society—The San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society is the only non-profit organization in San Diego that rescues turtles and tortoises of any species. The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Fund will help with medical care requirements of the California Desert Tortoise and education of the public concerning the proper care of the tortoise as well as how to help protect species native to California.

Conserving the West African Manatee—The Wildlife trust is working to create a unified network of African researchers in countries of the animal’s range to collect collaborative research on the endangered species.

Save the Elephants—The Fund is helping with long-term elephant monitoring and conducting mammal census in the Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves in northern Kenya.

These are just a few of the organizations the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Conservation Fund have already donated too this year and we’re sure they will continue to seek out and donate to causes they believe will help rescue and save the animals of the world.

Construction Slows On Busch Gardens Newest Project

2010-07-30T09:13:17-04:00

As the summer rages on in Central Florida one Orlando theme park has seemed to halt recent construction on their latest 2011 project. 90 plus degree weather can do that to a construction crew. Fortunately Busch Gardens was quite productive the first part of the year. Attractions like the Serengeti Express were closed down for a couple of months, foliage was removed in mass quantities, and dirt was dug, piled high and put down again. But now there seems to be a lull in the progress. Apparently the early construction was just to complete the new Edge of Africa path that better connects it to the rest of the park and to lay foundations for other construction efforts. Now that that part of the construction is complete, what comes next for Project 2011?

Recent construction has involved the rerouting of guests through the Crown Colony to get to Egypt and the stripping of the Skyride/Monorail building. But most of the construction for the actual coaster is yet to come. The only thing being done so far for the ride is trenches being dug out, some footers have been placed around the landscape, but other than that nothing new. We probably won’t see any more exciting construction being done until after the foundation work is complete. And there probably won’t be an announcement until the fall on more of the construction and details of the project.

“[teaser] campaign will culminate with an announcement before the end of the year, during which we will reveal many more details,” said Jill Revelle.

More teasers are sure to come for the rest of the summer and into the fall. Guests and Busch Gardens fans should get a steady stream of hints by these teasers and perhaps someone will figure out just what is going on!

Along with the teasers quite a bit of information has been discovered about Project 2011. But what the actual ride does is still up for debate. Some still question if the rumored name Cheetaka is for real. The name SheiKra was not announced until the day of the roller coaster unveiling so it seems odd Busch Gardens would release the name for Project 2011 so early in the game, but we like it so we’re sticking with it for now.

As always stay tuned for more teaser updates and information on construction as we slowly enter the fall months. With all of the anticipation of Project 2011, you can bet the outcome will be well worth the wait! Here’s to hoping we don’t have to wait much longer for more clues and/or details about Project 2011!

Walt Disney Worlds New Movies For Fall

2010-08-02T11:28:37-04:00

It’s not quite the end of summer but as kids gear up for another school year and fall looms in the background, Walt Disney World is keeping things exciting with a few brand new films that are set to debut this fall.

The spectacular, against-all-odds journey of Secretariat will be in theaters October 8. Diane Lane portrays Penny Chenery, a housewife and mother who takes the reins of her father’s Virginia-based Meadow Stables in the early 1970’s—despite her lack of horse-racing knowledge. Eventually Chenery navigates the male-dominated sport and goes on to become the first U.S. Triple Crown winner in 25 years.

Based on a true story the film was inspired and suggested by William Nack’s book “Secretarist: The Making of a Champion.” The real Penny Chenery, now 87 years old, will appear in one of the scenes as an extra and was a very important resource while filming.

A month later on November 24 Disney’s hilarious 3D animated feature “Tangled” will debut. The story puts a modern day twist on the classic tale of Rapunzel and marks Walt Disney Pictures’ 50th full-length animated feature. Directed by Byron Howard and 14-year animation veteran Nathan Greno, the film features new songs and a score by eight-time Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken with lyrics written by Glenn Slater. The incredible voice cast includes Ron Perlman, Jeffrey Tambor, Donna Murphy and Brad Garrett. Zachary Levi will also play the voice of Flynn Rider, the kingdom’s most notorious bandit, while Mandy Moore voices the fetching and feisty teen who takes Flynn hostage.

And as Christmas nears, Disney fans will get a special gift in the form of a Tron movie! Many of you may already be familiar with “TRON” but the story picks up 20 years later when Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund) is haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his father Kevin (Jeff Bridges), formerly the world’s leading video game developer.

One of the most highly anticipated films of the year, “TRON: Legacy” is filled with some pretty impressive firsts. It’s the first 3D movie to integrate a character with a fully digital head and body based upon an existing actor, which enabled filmmakers to create the younger version of Jeff Bridges’ character. The film also includes extensive use of self-illuminated costumes, and shooting the movie with 35mm lenses and full 35mm chip cameras.

It looks like this fall will be just as exciting as this summer was for Disney films! So if you’re in the mood for the usual Disney film excitement, make sure you keep a few October, November and December days open.”Secretariat,” “Tangled,” and “TRON: Legacy” are sure to transport you into fantastical worlds!

New Show Coming to Disney Parks

2010-08-04T16:36:59-04:00

Walt Disney World is making sure your fall is just as exciting as your summer has been. With the recent announcement of the extension of Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade, Disney is also ushering in a fresh new show coming to both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort this fall!

The newest show to Disney, which has yet to be named, will be a live, rock-concert style show blasting popular music from a variety of Disney Channel hits, including the “High School Musical” series, “Camp Rock” and “StarStruck.” The show will follow a format that is similar to “High School Musical 3: Senior Year—Right Here! Right Now!” Rumor has it that the show will debut at Disney California Adventure park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on October 22.

Unfortunately for fans of “High School Musical 3: Senior Year—Right Here! Right Now!” the new show will be taking over this popular attraction due to space constraints. The Wildcats from High School Musical will cheer in their last performance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on October 2. But not to worry, the Wildcats will be back later in October in a fresh, new and exciting way.

In the meantime there’s plenty to do at Hollywood Studios before summer winds down and the school year begins! If you haven’t yet been to Disney for Summer Nightastic what are you waiting for!? You only have a few more weeks to experience the light, shows and spectacular attractions of the summer and that means dropping hundreds of feet down the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel! For the next few weeks the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror will feature new lights, displays and drops just for the celebration of summer. Or climb aboard the interactive 4D attraction Toy Story mania! New this year with new characters from the third film, Toy Story Mania is one of the best kid rides in the whole park!

And even though summer is gradually fading from us, it is still rather hot here in Central Florida so why not spend your last few weeks of time off soaking in the sun and cooling off at one of Disney’s popular water parks. Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are a great way to get all of the thrills of Disney rides with a little water mixed in! Enjoy water slides, wave pools, kids’ zones and more for a relaxing adventure the whole family can enjoy!

As summer will eventually come to an end, make sure you check back often for more updates on fall happenings. Remember, the Disney Food & Wine Festival begins in October so stay tuned for more details on that spectacular event!

Universal Claims First Attendance Gain in Two Years

2010-08-06T16:55:30-04:00

Blame it on Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure or the busy summer months, but Universal Orlando is experiencing the biggest attendance gain in more than two years!

During the second quarter of the year, Universal’s two theme parks rose 2.2 percent, climbing nearly 2.6 million visitors from fewer than 2.5 million a year ago. Sales soared 12.8 percent to $243 million!

Of course Universal can’t help but thank their newest attraction, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a collection of rides, shops and eateries based on the magical realm conceived by J.K. Rowling, for the bump in attendance in the past few months. Even though the $200-plus million addition to Universal’s Islands of Adventure opened less than two weeks before the end of the second quarter, it has lured in enormous crowds and triggered huge souvenir sales.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is having a very positive impact on both our guest experience and our business,” Universal Orlando President Bill Davis said in a prepared statement. “Our guests continue to be thrilled with the experience we have created for them and our business results are beginning to show it.”

Whether it was the recession or the major competition of Disney World, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, attendance at Universal Studios was still down for the first half of the year nearly 3 percent from 2009. Luckily for Universal, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter came to their rescue just in time! In fact, Universal’s attendance is expected to grow substantially over the next year or so. And with another month of Harry Potter’s magic under their belt, Universal’s attendance is already up a mid-single-digit percentage over the first seven months of last year.

If you have already been to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it’s no surprise as to why attendance is up for the movie-based theme park. This magnificent attraction includes all of your favorite characters, thrills, treats, and more from all of the Harry Potter movies. If you’re a fan and even if you have never seen a Harry Potter movie in your life, this attraction is one of the most exciting and comprehensive rides/attractions in both parks. Full of thrill rides, shopping and dining, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must see on your next Orlando visit.

Congratulations Universal for such an impressive attendance jump in the past month. We hope the Wizarding World and other Universal attractions continue to bring in the masses for the rest of the year! But we have a hunch luring people into Universal and Islands Adventure won’t be very hard.

Stay tuned for more news on Universal and their upcoming Halloween Horror Nights.

New Pizzeria Unveiled at Epcot World Showcase

2010-08-09T14:44:13-04:00

It’s finally here! Via Napoli has opened in the Italy Pavillion in Epcot World Showcase at Walt Disney World! All of you pizza, pasta and Italian lovers can now nosh on some of the most delicious Italian cuisine at Via Napoli, Disney’s first authentic Italian pizzeria to ever open in the park!

Restaurateur and longtime Paina restaurant Group CEO Nick Valenti created the Via Napoli concept, based upon his travels in Southern Italy and his time developing and overseeing the successful Naples 45 Ristorante e Pizzeria in New York which was awarded the coveted certification of “La Vera Pizza Napoletana.” While in Naples, Valenti spent time studying the art of dough, crust, sauce and oven temperatures at the famous pizzerias Da Michele and Trianon. Then at Da Ettore, Valenti discovered the art of pagnotiello, a folded round of pizza dough filled with mozzarella, ham and mushrooms, think calzone! And we’re sure glad Valenti took his time studying pizza and Italian cuisine because Via Napoli is absolutely delicious!

“I have always loved the beauty of a simple Neapolitan pizza,” Valenti said. “It’s a perfect food, something beloved by both Italians and Americans. At Via Napoli we will make pizza the traditional Neapolitan way: with a textured soft and charred crust. I look forward to bringing it to Walt Disney World, where it should be a welcome addition to guests visiting Epcot.”

And welcomed it is! Offering a variety of Neapolitan pizzas, ranging from pizza Bianca, Quattro stagioni, piccante, ortolano and a traditional margherita, Via Napoli has covered all the bases for the best pizza in Disney! Famed Pizzaiolo Charlie Restivo serves as executive chef at Via Napoli, where he makes masterpieces using simple ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, Caputo flour, handmade fresh mozzarella, Parma Cotto, crumbled sausage and water calibrated specifically to the pH found in Naples! Sounds intense and delicious!

Besides the mouth-watering ingredients, Via Napoli will be using wood-burning ovens, which are named after three active volcanoes in Italy—Mount Etna, Mount Vesuvius and Stromboli.

Epcot is fully behind the newest food establishment in their park and they are rather excited to be bringing such incredible Italian Fare to the World Showcase. “We’re excited to be working with the Patina restaurant group once again on this significant expansion project,” said Dan Cockerell, vice president of Epcot. “Via Napoli will certainly enhance the guest experience and the architectural landscape of World Showcase just in time for our 15th annual Epcot Food & Wine Festival.”

Via Napoli is just another reason to visit the incredible park of Epcot. For those of you who will be visiting Epcot in the future and would love a delicious slice, Via Napoli is located adjacent to Tutto Italia Ristorante in the Italy pavilion.

Disney Considering Haunted Mansion and Disney Princess Themed Rooms

2010-08-11T09:59:37-04:00

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it would be like to spend the night in Disney World’s Haunted Mansion or spend the night the way a Disney princess does, you might be in luck! According to some of Disney’s discussion forum members, Disney may be considering the possibility of adding more themed rooms to the moderate resort line-up. So get ready for a night of frights or pampering, depending on which room you prefer, as Disney takes you on a special adventure through your favorite Disney attractions! You simply won’t find this kind of excitement in any other hotel!

This idea of adding themed rooms to Disney resorts is not a new concept. In fact, just a year ago in 2009, Disney added Pirate themed rooms to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Due to the popularity of the Disney movie, the resort realized there was a great want for themed rooms after people’s favorite Disney movies, rides and parks. The new room proposals add the option of a ‘Royal Room’, drawing inspiration from the Disney Princess stories, and a Haunted Mansion room.

“Come spend the night with a few of the happy haunts who playing an enchanted bedroom inspired by the Haunted Mansion. Rest atop the floating Doom Buggy beds with a couple of friendly spooks and watch glow-in-the-dark, cartoon-like footsteps mysteriously appear as the evening sets in. A sliding bookcase creates a hidden passage to the bathroom and is the perfect hiding place for a hitch-hiking ghost. Oversized furnishings with curvy lines and bright colors add to the whimsy in the room. Guests will delight in finding the hidden special effects that play up the merry, rather than scary, room ambiance.”

As this is just a rumor, we’re not quite sure which resort these new themed rooms would be added to or if a whole new resort would have to be created to accommodate the unique themes. For time sake, we’re hoping Disney just re-creates a few hundred rooms that already exist so we don’t have to wait years for the opening of a new hotel. Any ideas where the renovations would take place? Any places you hope the renovations take place? Hopefully, we’ll hear more news about these room changes if and when they will happen so we can begin our Haunted or Princess vacations! Until then you can always get your fill of friendly ghosts at the Haunted Mansion ride at Magic Kingdom or spend the day in the presence of royalty as several of Disney’s most famous princesses roam the four parks.

We’re excited to find out more about this Disney venture so stay tuned for more updated information on the Disney themed room rumor.

Simon Cowell Pays for Disney Vacation for Cancer Teen

2010-08-13T08:53:43-04:00

It’s one of the most visited places in the world and one of the most sought after vacations for locals and foreigners alike, so it’s no wonder people from all over the world put Disney World on their life’s to-do lists. And recently one little girl gained national attention when her dream trip to Disney was granted by a famous music mogul.

Former American Idol judge Simon Cowell reached into his own pocket to help a 12-year old girl fighting a rare form of cancer get to one of the happiest places on Earth, Disney World.

Megan Kershaw who has endured 18-months of grueling chemotherapy and has also had three-quarters of her liver removed after being diagnosed with a rare type of cancer in 2008-- completed a “wish board” which included meeting Simon Cowell and Girls Aloud as well as a dream trip to Disney World. After meeting Megan during a hospital visit and learning of her “wish board” Cowell offered to pay for her Disney trip.

Megan currently lives in Yorkshire, England and will be traveling to the U.S. for her 13th birthday next month. Cowell will not only be paying for Megan’s time in Disney World, he will be buying her a luxury flight, her hotel fees and a day swimming with the dolphins.

“This is wonderful. Megan is really excited, she can’t wait, she is counting down the days. It’s lovely to see. People have been so generous raising money and now Simon Cowell has been so generous too,” her mother Deborah said.

As for why American Idol judge and the X Factor star would want to fulfill Megan’s wishes, her mother had this to say, “I think he was touched by her story and Megan’s determination to beat cancer. It will be really emotional for me to see her finally getting to Disney World after all we have been through.”

Megan has already fulfilled her ambition to meet Girls Aloud and has also been to Downing Street, ridden in a limousine, met t he casts of musicals ‘Billy Elliot’ and ‘Mamma Mia’ and visited the set of British soap opera ‘Emmerdale’.

Her dream of visiting Disney World will finally come true in September.

Kind-hearted Cowell said, “Megan is a very brave girl. I’m glad I could help.”

Congratulations Megan on your upcoming trip to the most magical place on Earth. And thanks to Simon Cowell for making a young girl’s dream come true. We hope Megan gets a chance to visit all four Disney parks including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom and while she’s at it a few water parks as well!

Harry Potter Beats Mickey

2010-08-16T09:36:13-04:00

We all know that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has worked wonders for Universal Studios so far this summer. The wildly popular attraction at Islands of Adventure has already boosted Universal’s attendance for the first time in two years. But is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as popular as Mickey and all of his Disney magic? Perhaps it is.

Walt Disney World just announced their earnings report for the second quarter and it appears that Harry Potter has beat out Mickey Mouse. While Universal’s attendance grew 2 percent during the second quarter, Disney’s dropped 2 percent. But keep in mind there are a few things we should realize before we high five and congratulate Universal.

First, Universal benefits from easier comparisons because it had a much weaker second quarter last year. Second, Disney and Universal operate on different fiscal calendars, so the quarters aren’t exactly aligned. The difference in time helped Universal’s results by including more of the travel rush around Easter but also hurt Universal by robbing it of an extra week of Wizarding World.

But still, Universal is gloating from outgaining Disney World, the first time since late 2008. Plus, per-capita guests spending jumped 14 percent at Universal thanks to sales of potter-themed snacks and souvenirs.

But since we love all Orlando theme parks and like to think they all help each other out, we must say that there is evidence that while Universal has outgained Disney in this quarter, the movie-based theme park is also helping out Disney World. How so, you ask? Consider Disney World’s performance against Disneyland’s. While attendance at Disney World fell 2 percent, it fell 4 percent at its sister park in California. That’s the first time attendance at Disney World has outperformed attendance at the California Resort in two years.

Point being, although Universal has earned bragging rights for this quarter, Disney World still seems to be bringing in the masses, even more so than Disneyland. Perhaps it’s because Disney is a mere miles away from Universal and families are making a stop at both theme parks during their vacations. Or, perhaps Universal’s lines have become too long forcing families to switch to Disney for the day. But either way, Universal seems to be playing a bigger role in Disney’s attendance, than they realize.

But in the end we believe both Orlando theme parks are just as worthy to be visited as the next one and we hope you’ll spend your remaining summer days discovering the movies and the magic at both places. Because after all, the two really can’t even be compared and you should experience both to get the full affect of what Orlando really has to offer!

SeaWorld Refreshes With Tropical Drinks

2010-08-18T12:08:10-04:00

Orlando theme parks are known for many things; thrill rides, holiday events, parades, shows, contests and more but there’s one thing they’ve been missing, a nice cold drink on a hot summer day. Until now. Both Busch Gardens and SeaWorld have recently introduced tropical drinks into their line-up of fun treats adult guests can indulge in. Now that Anheuser Busch is out of the equation, guests are finding more options to sip on besides just beer, beer, and more beer.

From strawberry daiquiris to margaritas and pina coladas, these two popular theme parks have begun to include delicious tastes into their repertoire of alcoholic drinks. But the process is rather slow so far. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink at SeaWorld after you ride the Manta or visit Shamu you’ll have to take a bit of a walk to wet your whistle. There are only a few places within the park that offer these drinks including in front of the Sea Lion and Otter Stadium, Captain Pete’s (in the park’s Key West section), the Terrace Bar, the Sharks Bar and the Sand Bar so make sure you plan your drinking accordingly. We’re still not quite sure of the locations of bars in Busch Gardens, but rest assured if SeaWorld is doing it so is Busch Gardens!

Prices are fairly reasonable too: $5.99 for a good-sized drink and for a few bucks more you can get a souvenir glass if you’d like.

For those of you who prefer beer to a pina colada, don’t worry, both parks are still serving the frothy beverage at several locations throughout.

As for other Busch Gardens and SeaWorld news, stay tuned for more information on upcoming fall activities. Now that SeaWorld’s After Dark event and Busch Gardens Summer Nights event have come to a close, you can be sure both parks are already preparing their fall lineup. And with Halloween just a few months away, get ready for some spooks and thrill rides only available for the candy holiday.

So far we know, or we think we know the theme for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream and it looks as though it’s going to revolve around a rock concert. We’re not sure how this will play into the scary event but we’re confident Busch Garden’s will continue to thrill us for this month-long event. Unfortunately that’s all we really know and we hope to hear more in September as the holiday gets closer.

Until then enjoy your new tropical drinks but please use your judgment and remember to drink responsibly when inside either Busch Gardens or SeaWorld.

Cheers!

Man Who Attended More Than 15000 Shows at Busch Gardens Passes Away

2010-08-20T09:14:37-04:00

Visiting an Orlando theme park can be one of the most exciting experiences in a child’s life. From seeing their favorite characters to riding the thrill rides, theme parks know how to bring out the best in a child. And the same can be said for an adult. As we often associate theme parks with children, we sometimes forget how a day riding your favorite coaster or watching a special parade can lift anybody’s spirit, even adult’s. Such was the case with Edward Wasik, a retired Korean War veteran who spent countless hours experiencing all that Busch Gardens had to offer.

All day, every day for the past 12 years, Edward Wasik has spent his days sitting in his scooter, watching his favorite productions such as KaTonga, Rock a Doo Wop, and the Mystic Sheiks of Morocco. With a daily diet of three to five shows, Mr. Wasik almost certainly attended at least 15,000 performances at Busch Gardens.

“He didn’t go there for the animals or the rides,” said Heather Fisher, his granddaughter. “It was only for the shows.”

And for the shows he saw he learned almost every intricate detail of each of his favorites. He loved the colorful, kid-friendly costumes, and watching top-tier dancers tearing it up to YMCA or Shake Your Booty.

Each day, Mr Wasik flirted shamelessly with the women of the shows, claiming it was his birthday, a reward he claimed seven days a week. But the only women in his life were his grandchildren, especially great granddaughter Sarinaty, who was diagnosed with leukemia as an infant and was often seen with him at the park. The two certainly loved to spend their days at Busch Gardens, watching the shows and catching ice cream at a shop near the Marrakesh Theater.

Mr. Wasik was a native of Bridgeport, Connecticut who served with the Air Force in Japan and Korea during the Korean War. Years after the war, he moved to Tampa where he worked for Drake’s Cakes for 20 years, running packaged pastries to convenience stores.

He retired in 1994 and bought a yearly pass to Busch Gardens. It wasn’t long before Mr. Wasik was going to the park from sun up to sun down.

“It gave him a purpose in life, helped him enjoy life and keep his outgoing spirit,” said Fisher.

He kept up the routine until a few years ago, when a blood infusion placed him in a series of nursing homes. Mr. Wasik died August 3. He was 78. True to form he left behind funeral instructions calling for three dancing girls and an all-you-can-eat-buffet.

Farewell Mr. Wasik and thanks for making Busch Gardens such an important part of your life!

Night of Joy at Magic Kingdom

2010-08-23T16:50:18-04:00

The long-running Christian music event, Night of Joy, is making it’s way back to Disney at the Magic Kingdom starting on Friday, September 10. Disney World recently released the schedule of the two-day event and artists include “Artists of the Year” Third Day, mercyme and Chris Tomlin and 2010 “Artist of the Year” nominees Casting Crowns and Francesca Battistelli.

Also part of the two-night event: David Crowder* Band, Family Force 5, Red, BarlowGirl, Group 1 Crew, Day of Fire, Smokie Norful, Lecrae, 10th Avenue North, Sidewalk Prophets, P.O.D., Newsboys, Kutless, Leeland, Flyleaf, Jars of Clay and more.

This is a special ticket event and is not included in the price of a Disney ticket. From 7 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. each night—after regular Magic Kingdom hours this special Christian event will feature live performances on several stages throughout the park. In addition, guests can experience some of the park’s most popular attractions during Night of Joy hours.

Guests of all musical tastes will be pleased to know that musically, the acts add up to a lineup that runs the spectrum from Rock, Hip Hop and R&B…to Pop, Adult Contemporary and Gospel, continuing a tradition that has been a hallmark of Night of Joy since 1983 when the event began.

The lineup is also riddled with musical accolades. Ten of the artists have amassed a combined 81 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and six have earned The Recording Academy Grammy Awards. Twelve of the artists are nominated for a total of 33 Dove Awards this year. So if you happen to attend Night of Joy, you’ll be in for quite a musical treat.

Five artists are new to Night of Joy, bringing the event’s all-time talent list to 144 Christina music acts. The newbies include: 10th Avenue North, the 2009 New Artists of the eyar, group 1 Crew, Day of Fire, Sidewalk Prohpets, and Lecrae.

For those of you who don’t know what Night of Joy is, it’s an annual contemporary Christian music festival that takes place at Walt Disney World every year. The music festival began in 1983 and normally takes place in the first or second week of September. The event has been held at Magic Kingdom since it’s opening, except for two years when it was housed at Hollywood Studios. Night of Joy is one of two current Christian rock festivals held in Orlando each year. The other is Rock the Universe, which is held at, Universal Orlando Resort typically on the same nights as Night of Joy.

For a Night of Joy make sure you get your tickets now! This yearly event sells out rather quickly!

Wizarding World Forbidden Journey Reaches Million Riders

2010-08-25T11:58:02-04:00

In just two months Universal Orlando’s newest attraction, Wizarding World of Harry Potter has already reached more milestones and broken more records than any other attraction at the popular Orlando theme park. It was recently reported that Universal Orlando has experienced the first increase in attendance in two years, which can be attributed in large part to the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. But that’s not the only exciting news to hit the park, this week Universal announced that there have already been one million riders to experience Wizarding World’s Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey roller coaster ride!

The attraction officially opened on June 18 at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park and has been making history ever since.

Forbidden Journey marks the fastest climb to the one million rider mark for Universal Orlando Resort.

The previous record was held by The Simpsons Ride, also at Universal Studios. That attraction opened in 2008 and also took about two months to reach one million riders.

Housed within Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Forbidden Journey is one of the crown jewels of the park’s new Wizarding World of Harry Potter area.

So far one million guests have enjoyed viewing the towering gates and familiar passageways and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as they wait to soar above the castle grounds and join Harry Potter himself and his friends on an unforgettable thrilling adventure. Guests will come face to face with an array of magical creatures! Using groundbreaking, state-of-the-art technology, the Forbidden Journey is a one of a kind ride experience.

If roller coaster thrill rides aren’t for you, there’s plenty more to see and experience at Wizarding World of Harry Potter including shopping! See some of Hogwarts confiscated goods and purchase souvenirs such as Hogwarts clothing and other gifts at Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with acid pops, exploding bon bons, chocolate frogs and more at Honeydukes. You can even try out the infamous butterbeer at Three Broomsticks, a rustic tavern right inside Hogsmeade!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is certainly an attraction worth seeing! Just ask the one million guests who have already experienced Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey, and that’s just counting the people who rode the ride! Imagine how many people have already visited the attraction! Make sure you get to Universal and Islands of Adventure sometime soon. With part one of the newest Harry Potter movie not hitting theaters until November and part two not even coming out until 2011, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the perfect way to get your fill of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts now!

Disney MAC Reveal Venomous Villains Cosmetic Collections

2010-08-27T09:30:49-04:00

If you’ve ever marveled at the Evil Queen’s purple eye shadow or Maleficent’s pink tinted lips you may get your chance to duplicate their looks with a new makeup line this September. In an effort to celebrate women’s dark side Disney has teamed up with M.A.C. cosmetics to create a limited edition color collection, intended to launch globally in late September in all M.A.C. locations. The products are expected to feature four Disney characters, on which they are keeping quiet about at the moment, but with the line being called Venomous Villains, we can only guess Goofy and Donald Duck won’t be featured.

Disney has left it up to us to dream about the four villainous women who might have inspired a whole makeup line. If we had to guess who the four most venomous villains were, we’d put our money on Cruella Deville of “101 Dalmatians,” “Ursula of “The Little Mermaid, ” The Evil Queen from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” and perhaps Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty.”

The vicious line will include lipstick, lip gloss, powder and blush and will retail for $12 to $29.50.

We really don’t know much at this point, other than prices and the name, but we’re hoping for beauties, not beasts. And interestingly enough, there isn’t a princess in sight. This just goes to show the good-girl isn’t always the popular one and sometimes a little bad is a good thing!

“Other brands can do princess collections,” says James Gager, MAC creative director. “MAC would rather focus on another side of beauty. It’s great to be nice but also good to be naughty occasionally.”

The Disney/MAC collaboration is an idea Grager has had for years, so he was more than thrilled when Disney agreed to the project.

“We’re both in the world of entertainment and fantasy. This collection is totally focused on fantasy and sophistication of beauty, but it also has a tongue-in-cheek quality to it,” says Grager. “Don’t think about this makeup as going out on Halloween. It’s very sophisticated makeup.”

This isn’t the first time Disney has entered the fashion world. Recently Disney Couture launched “The Little Mermaid” inspired jewelry line, and joined partnerships to promote spring 2010’s “Alice in Wonderland,” including a ring collaboration with H. Stern and Alice-inspired costume jewelry with fashion designer Stella McCartney.

We have about another month until this femme fatal collection hits stores but in the meantime if you need your villainous fix, head over to Magic Kingdom where you’re sure to find a bad guy or two roaming the park! We can’t wait to see who the actual Disney villains will actually be but we’re pretty confident our four guesses are pretty accurate.

HowlOScreams Newest Attraction

2010-08-30T13:12:04-04:00

If the roller coasters don’t scare you then maybe the zombies at Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream will! For the past 11 years, Busch Gardens has worked up a Halloween-themed attraction intent on scaring the pants off of park-goers. And this year is no different as Howl-O-Scream welcomes the newest hair-raising attraction.

This year, the Halloween event will feature a haunted house exhibit that allows people to wander through a darkened, maniac-infested structure alone. Sounds like a classic Halloween exhibit but not only is this brand new at Busch Gardens but it’s one of the scariest parts of Howl-O-Scream 2010. But beware, the “Alone” exhibit’s price is even scarier than the walk through. It costs $35 above the admission fee so if you want a good scare, get ready to pay for it!

But not to worry, there are plenty more Howl-O-Scream attractions that you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get into. Take for example the rock ‘n’ roll guests will hear through the screaming zombies and chainsaw killers roaming the park. This year, music is an added bonus for park-goers and you can be sure you’ll hear some of your favorite bands as well as new songs as the night rages on including a new underground band, My X which will perform every night at this year’s event.

Howl-O-Scream will also feature new scare zones and more haunted houses than last year, including the “Alone” attraction which is being touted as being on the cutting edge of scare tactics.

This year’s event also features even more blood, brains and guts than previous years and the themed event is for serious horror fans and not the faint of heart.

And as always, Busch Gardens’ rides will remain open but we have to warn you, costumes will not be allowed.

The event runs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night beginning September 30 through October 31. If you can’t wait that long to see what kind of horror the park has in store, a preview is scheduled for the weekend of September 24 for discounted general admission rates.

Howl-O-Scream hours are from 7:30 to 1 a.m. on Thursday nights and Halloween night. Friday and Saturday hours are 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.

You have one month to prepare for Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream event so make sure you watch all of the scary movies you can in preparation for spooks and thrills you only see in the movies. Until then make sure you bone up on Busch Gardens’ rides and other attractions. Once you experience Tampa’s hottest theme park, you’ll be sure to come back for their special Halloween event.

Stay tuned for more information on Howl-O-Scream and Orlando theme park Halloween events.

Disney Family Movies To Offer Free Preview

2010-09-01T09:39:15-04:00

The nation’s leading entertainment industry, Walt Disney World is taking a few days in September to offer a free preview of some of their most popular Disney films.

The subscription video-on-demand service, “Disney Family Movies,” has partnered with content providers Comcast, Charter, Cox, AT&T U-verse, Suddenlink, Verizon FiOS and Avail TVN Affiliates to offer customers a free preview of the service from Thursday, September 2 through Monday, September 6.

If you haven’t seen it or are unaware of “Disney Family Movies” it provides the ultimate in family entertainment from one of t he world’s biggest film libraries, giving customers unlimited access to a selection of classic and contemporary films and animated features from the Walt Disney Studios. The unique service is a great way to see all of your favorite Disney films from the classics to the new popular favorites. During this viewing each movie will remain on rotation for one month, with new movies added weekly.

Hosted by Phylicia Rashad, the “Disney Family Movies” free preview will offer a variety of classic and contemporary Disney films including timeless animated classics such as “Pocahontas,” the adventurous “Muppet Treasure Island,” the hit Disney-Pixar comedy “A Bug’s Life,” and “Monster Truck Mater,” which features the voice of Larry the Cable Guy.

Make sure you make a date with your television between September 2nd through the 6th because this free preview won’t last forever. And you’ll just have to wait and see which movies will be available for your viewing pleasure until then, but we’re sure whatever Disney movies they provide, you and your family will be more than entertained!

And if you want the real thing you can always visit Walt Disney World in Orlando for more of your favorite rides, shows and attractions. For the magic of Disney head to Magic Kingdom and see your favorite Disney princesses as well as your favorite Disney fantasies come to life. Or for a worldy adventure visit Epcot and learn more about the world’s countries and regions. For an animal adventure check out Animal Kingdom where lions and tigers roam the park and you get an inside glimpse into the life of the world’s exotic animals. And finally for a day at the movies visit Hollywood Studios where you can feel like you’re a movie star as you experience all that the movies have to offer in a way only Disney knows how to do!

But just remember, make sure you’re back home by September 2nd to enjoy Disney movie after Disney movie! We’re pretty confident that after the free preview is over, you’ll be signing up for the “Disney Family Movies” option with your local cable provider.

Toy Story 3 Marks 1 Billion

2010-09-03T12:01:49-04:00

A congratulations is in order for Disney’s newest animated film, Toy Story 3. The animated feature has become quite the popular movie over the past few months, bringing back the loveable toys in a third installment of the film while also breaking some box office feats! If you don’t already know, Toy Story 3 has recently become the highest-grossing animated film of all time! But that’s not all, on Friday, the film passed the $1 billion mark at the global box office, joining Alice in Wonderland as the second $1 billion film this year from Walt Disney Studios—the first studio in history to accomplish this feat! Disney crossed the $1 billion threshold with Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest in 2006 but Toy Story 3 is the only animated film to reach this milestone and the seventh title in industry history!

“It’s been an incredible year as we saw the Pixar team bring Buzz and Woody back to the big screen and watched Tim Burton’s vision for Alice in Wonderland take the world by storm,” said Rich Ross, Chairman, The Walt Disney Studios. “These box office triumphs prove that creative storytelling brought to life by imaginative, inspired and talented professionals is something audiences respond to the world over.”

As of Thursday, Toy Story 3 tallied more than $592.9 million internationally, Disney’s largest international animated release. The popular film is also making waves all over the world with Latin American audiences contributing $138 million. Toy Story 3 is the most successful UK release in Disney history and currently stands as the fourth biggest title in territory history with $102.4 million in box office receipts. Over in Japan, the film has taken in $111.2 million and spent five consecutive weeks as the #1 movie. Toy Story 3 currently ranks as the #7 film in global box office history and domestically ranks #9 with $404.6 million in receipts to date.

This is sure to do wonders for Walt Disney World’s Toy Story 3 ride Toy Story Mania at Hollywood Studios where guests can enjoy a 4-D world of midway style games hosted by Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Rex, Hamm and more! For those who have seen the third installment of the animated movie, it’s the perfect ride to make you feel like you’re really a part of the action. And for those of you who haven’t quite made it to the theater yet, Toy Story Mania is a great way to get a little preview for what’s in store when you actually do get a chance to catch the animated film.

Congratulations again to Walt Disney Studios and Toy Story 3! We sure hope you continue producing record-breaking animated films for years to come!

Halloween Horror Nights Theme Revealed

2010-09-07T16:56:11-04:00

On Thursday, August 26, Universal Orlando Resort announced more details about Halloween Horror Nights XX. The Halloween Horror Nights website now features a very freaky intro foreshadowing this year’s event, which is apparently about Fear himself. He is everything that Halloween Horror Nights has been in the past and everything it will be in the future.

“Everything we have done for the past 19 years, everything we have learned, leads to this moment,” said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. “This year’s Halloween Horror Nights is not about the past. It is about the future.” But keep in mind as much as the number 20 signifies an anniversary year this is not an anniversary event.

For those who frequent Halloween Horror Nights each year and for those who have never been, this year promises to be one of the scariest Halloweens you will ever encounter. When Fear is the one hosting the party, you know no scare tactic is off limits. And to commemorate Fear, Halloween Horror Nights has added eight new haunted houses and six new scarezones, plus two live shows.

Travel into a realm where Halloween Horror Nights isn’t just an event, but a reality in Horror Nights: The Hallow’d Past. And if orphanages scare the pants off of you, you may want to steer clear from The Orfanage: Ashes to Ashes where the burn-out remains of an orphanage house the souls of the forgotten and the lost. Make your way into the underworld, and come face to face with the most terrifying creatures of legend as you cross through the Gates of Ruin in Hades: The Gates of Ruin. See how life really is stranger than fiction as you take a tour through the deserted mental hospital Shadybrook, where the criminally insane roam the halls in Psychoscareapy: Echoes of Shadybrook. Those are just a few of the haunted houses you will encounter at Halloween Horror Nights XX. We’ll let the rest be a surprise!

The new scare zones include HHN: 20 Years of Fear where you will encounter the most frightening characters of Halloween Horror Nights past. Fear Revealed features souls of Chaos, Death, Sacrifice, Mythos and Vengeance, whom Fear created and gave them power. Zombie Gras is a Mardi Gras parade that has gone severely wrong by an infected North American zombie infestation. Esqueleto Muerte revels in the seductive taunts of Death as you wind through a glowing skeletal maze. For the rest of the scarezones you’ll just have to attend Halloween Horror Nights XX!

Halloween Horror Nights runs September 24-25, September 30 through October 1-3, 7-10, 14-17, 20-24 and 27-31. Get ready to be introduced to Fear!

New Show Comes to Busch Gardens Tampa

2010-09-08T17:31:06-04:00

Busch Gardens has certainly been busy as we enter into the fall season. With the recent release of the Howl-O-Scream theme and now an announcement that a new show will be replacing “Katonga”, the Orlando theme park is bustling with exciting news!

Move over Katonga, Busch Gardens is saying goodbye to the ice-skating show and welcoming a new brand of entertainment sure to knock your socks off! Straight from Broadway, Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy is a groundbreaking theatrical, acrobatic and musical adventure that stunned Broadway and is about to do the same at the roller coaster theme park!

According to Broadway World “More than 50 million fans worldwide have attended a Cirque Dreams show in the past decade. Critics and audiences alike have praised Cirque Dreams shows as, ‘The grandest circus spectacle east of Vegas;” New York Magazine, ‘A Whiz-bang family spectacle;’ Los Angeles Times and ‘brilliantly conceived entertainment for multiple generations” Chicago tribune. In 2008, Cirque Dreams made Broadway history by presenting Goldberg’s Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy at the Broadway Theatre, the first and only show of its kind to ever perform on Broadway. A new year round version of the show will open December 1, 2010 at Busch Gardens Tampa.”

Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy is an exotic encounter inspired by nature’s unpredictable creations that are brought to life by an international cast of soaring aerialists, spine-bending contortionists, acrobats, jugglers and musicians. Along with the astounding feats performed in this show, the costumes themselves are just as incredible and have even been nominated for an American Theatre Wing Best Costume Design Award. Striking visual effects as well as explosive athleticism like soaring aerial butterflies, balancing giraffes, gigantic flowers, trees and kings of the jungle, make Cirque Dreams world class entertainment perfect for all ages!

For those of you who love Katonga, you still have few more weeks to watch the show whirl and dance its way over the ice. But coming in December, get ready for a Broadway style performance you won’t find anywhere but at Busch Gardens! We’re certainly looking forward to the change and we hope you enjoy this production as much as we do!

Until then, you may want to gear up for Howl-O-Scream set to rock Busch Gardens each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from September 30 to Halloween night. The theme has been revealed and Rock seems to be taking over the park for the Halloween event. We’re still not 100% sure what that means but we’ll just have to wait like everybody else to see what Busch Gardens has in store. But no matter what it is, we’re pretty confident the scares and screams will be just as powerful as they have been in previous years!

Luxury Pet Resort Opens at Walt Disney World

2010-09-10T11:17:16-04:00

Now your pets can enjoy Walt Disney World as much as you do with the newest pet addition to the park, Best Friends Pet Care luxury pet resort which recently opened its doors to plenty of tail wagging on September 1st!

Dennis Dolan, CEO of Best Friends Pet Care, and Phil Bernard, vice president of Walt Disney World Operating Participants, were joined by Mickey’s favorite dog Pluto were on hand on to welcome the first guests to the luxury resort!

Offering 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor space, 10,000 square feet of covered outdoor runs and play areas, and a 25,000 square foot dog park exclusively for the use of Best Friends clients and their pets, this resort is a one-of-a-kind resort humans would be jealous to stay in!

“Best Friends is thrilled to open the doors of this special, luxury pet facility,” said Dolan. “We’ve been looking forward to this day for a long time and we are very excited to finally be ready to open the doors and show off this facility. It incorporates the very best concepts from our other Best Friends facilities with some imaginative ideas t hat we think will delight and surprise our Walt Disney World guests.”

Already the resort has brought in plenty for the Labor Day Weekend. The resort can accommodate up to 300 pets for both daytime and overnight boarding so now you don’t have to worry about Fido while you spend your day, or night, exploring the magic of Disney! And since this is technically a part of the Disney resorts, you can imagine how luxurious the accommodations really are. Dog owners can choose from a standard 32-square-foot-all-indoor suite, to an expansive 226-sqaure-foot VIP (Very Important Pet) suite with television, raised bedding and private outdoor yard. Best Friends Pet Resort is not just for dogs either, feline guests can enjoy the “Kitty City” pavilion, away from the dogs, in two and four room condos. There is also a special area for boarding of pocket pets, small mammals and birds.

“At Walt Disney World Resort, we are focused on providing the highest quality entertainment experiences for all guests. Working with Best Friends Pet Care, we are pleased to be able to extend that commitment to pets traveling with t heir owners,” said Bernard. “Our mutual appreciation for even the slightest detail is reflected in this one-of-a-kind facility and its unique services and amenities.”

There’s plenty more to see and do at this specialty pet resort so make sure you at least catch a glimpse of the place on your next Orlando theme park vacation. And if you do have a pet or two you might consider making a reservation for him or her at the resort. It’s the puuuurfect vacation!

Disney Opening New Stores

2010-09-13T14:37:40-04:00

The infamous Disney Store is about to get a makeover that will include interactive experiences, events full of fantasy and a build your own custom toy station that any kid would love to take part in. In fact, the new Disney Store will be more than just a place to buy Disney goods it will be a family destination!

On schedule for the end of November, the first 20 newly designed Disney Store locations will open up around the world! From Montebello, California, to New York’s Time Square, these stores are planning to captivate the young at heart!

“I think this is the most interactive and Guest-engaging store ever, and it’s the first that really showcases Disney products by connecting them to their stores. We do that through what we call ‘storytelling neighborhoods,’ anchored by ‘hero’ fixtures. The Disney Princess neighborhood is anchored by a princess castle with an interactive magic mirror. If Disney-Pixar’s ‘Cars’ is your thing, then there’s a super-scale Cars case filled with car parts where Guests can design and put together their own car right there in the Ridemakerz workshop in the store. It lets guests interact with Disney stories,” said Jon Endicott, Director of Global Store Design for Disney Store.

Another fun Disney treats the new store will have a Pixie Dust trail, which leads guests past the shimmering “enchanted trees” that grace the store, to a spacious white gazebo housing a 12-foot curved theater-style screen. While browsing the store parents and children can stop to enjoy Disney videos on this giant screen. And what’s even cooler about the videos is that the children can pick them out and by themselves! “It’s like a video version of a jukebox,” said Jon.

And of course having fun is what Disney is all about. “Our design brief was to create the best 30-minutes of a child’s day. We wanted to make sure that the new store was a shining beacon of the Disney brand,” said Jon. “There are theme parks, but then there are Disney theme parks, and the same is true for cruise ships, movies, theater—Disney is always a cut above. Disney has its own community, and we wanted to create a store where when people walk in, they feel that they’re immersed in Disney.”

Stay tuned for more details about when the new Disney Store will be hitting Orlando. In the meantime you can always get your fill of Walt Disney World and its four parks by visiting the popular Orlando theme park for special fall events!

We look forward to the Disney brand expansion and we hope it will be just as popular as the park itself!

WDW Magic Ride Counter iPhone and iPad Touch app

2010-09-15T18:33:23-04:00

WDWMagic, is excited to announce the availability of their second iPhone and iPad Touch application—‘WDW Ride Counter’ for Walt Disney World parks!

This newest app has been designed specifically for people who want to track how many times they have been on Splash Mountain at the Magic Kingdom or how many attractions they managed to fit into their weekend trip. And if you’re the type of person who likes to scrapbook your trips or produce trip reports on forums or blogs, this app is perfect for you!

‘WDW Ride Counter’ allows you to keep track of all that you encounter at Walt Disney World. Here’s how it works:

First, from the user list, choose the user(s)who have just experienced the attraction. Then select the park, and the attraction from the selection screen. Touch ‘count’ to record the attraction name, date and time. You can even add a comment, such as ‘rode at front’ or ‘rode at night’. Repeat each time you experience an attraction. At any time, use the “statistics” screen to view for any user and date range, a detailed log and summary of all the attractions experienced.

The ride counter also features multi user capability, detailed logs and statistics to tell you everything you need to know about what you experienced, full log access to show you full date, time and counts for everything you experienced, and plenty more!

And speaking of Disney apps if you ever find yourself at the celebrated theme park and can’t decide which attraction to ride you can download the ‘What 2 Ride’ app and you’ll instantly be given a ride to go to!

Here’s how it works:

First, choose a park. Then choose a land. Hit the spin button or shake the iPhone. ‘What 2 Ride’ then randomly picks a ride for you based on the locations you selected! So if you’re ever just stumped on where to go ’What 2 Ride’ is a fun option to help you choose a great ride or attraction. The app also allows you to see attraction descriptions and details, visitor ratings and reviews, photos, refurbishment info and all the latest news for the attraction.

Now you can enjoy all of the rides and attractions Disney World has to offer plus keep track of your stay with both the ’WDW Ride Counter’ and the ‘What 2 Ride” app!

But just in case you don’t have an iPhone or iPad here are a few of OrlandoFunTickets’ favorite Walt Disney World rides and attractions:

Magic Kingdom-- Splash Mountain & Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

A Guide To Orlando Theme Parks

2010-09-20T10:11:13-04:00

Navigating Orlando’s theme parks can sometimes be a bit of a challenge, especially when you are new to the area and not quite sure which theme park to hit up on which day. And while Universal Studios newest ride, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has helped take the guess work out of which park you should visit (if you’re a Harry Potter fan of course) it’s still hard to know just what the best times to frequent the park are and which rides are worth the longer than usual wait. Luckily for you, the tenth edition of the guidebook Universal Orlando 2011: The Ultimate Guide To The Ultimate Theme Park Adventure is about to give you the insider’s scoop on reviews of the Harry Potter attraction, including when to visit the newest Universal attraction.

Like for starters authors Seth Kubersky and Kelly Monaghan recommend against trying to visit the Harry Potter attraction in the morning.

“The crowds thin out considerably in the late afternoon,” notes Kubersky. “And if you arrive later in the day, you can still until it gets dark when the Wizarding World is even more magical.”

And while this guidebook discusses other rides at the movie theme park, one of its main focuses is how to get around the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Described by the authors as the “best theme park ride in the Western Hemisphere” the experience combines a tour of Hogwarts Castle with a roller coaster ride that raises the bar for theme park rides to a whole new level.

“The ‘magic benches’ on the ride are actually simulators sitting on top of a powerful robotic arm,” says Kubersky. “But the arm itself is mounted on a moving vehicle that whisks you through an environment that combines realistic sets, animatronic figures, and high definition film. There is nothing remotely like it anywhere in the world.”

The guide book goes on to discuss the simple pleasures of the Wizarding World, including the recreation of Hogsmeade Village, which is shockingly faithful to the description in J.K. Rowling’s books.

“That’s both a plus and a minus,” says co-author Monoghan. “True Potter fans love it, but those who are new to Harry Potter’s world tend to find it rather claustrophobic. One result is long lines just to get into the shops.”

Aside from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter the book offers tips into both Universal and Islands of Adventure’s other popular rides, without giving away the endings of course! The authors also provide little known secrets to both parks, such as how to eat at Mythos, the gourmet restaurant in Islands of Adventure, without paying theme park admission! Now that’s a deal!

Mickeys NotSoScary Halloween Party Begins in Magic Kingdom

2010-09-22T10:19:42-04:00

“Boo” has never been more exciting and less frightening as it is during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party that opens this week! Sure there are plenty of ghostly things happening at the popular Halloween party, but none of them are ghastly, in fact they are all rather friendly and really fun!

For 24 select nights starting this week and running through November, guests to Walt Disney World’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom can enjoy special not-so-scary events like “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade,” or watch as those friendly ghosts dance and skitter along the rooftops of Main Street, U.S.A. And perhaps the best part of the whole night is the Land-to-Land trick-or-treating throughout the park! That’s right! Kids can enjoy the traditions of Halloween as Disney invites them all to trick-or-treat their way through the park! It’s just like going around your neighborhood but with all of the magic and excitement Disney has to offer!

Guests wanting to join in the spirit of the party are welcome to don their favorite Halloween costumes for the 7 p.m.-to-12 midnight event. So what will you dress up as this year? Perhaps you’ll join the Halloween party as one of Disney’s popular princesses. Or maybe your style is something spookier like Scar, Cruella, or Ursula!

Whatever you intend to dress up as make sure you don’t miss "Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade" which takes place at 8:15 and 10:30 p.m. and the “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks spectacular at 9:30 p.m. It’s the perfect way to spark your Halloween evening!

In addition to the trick-or-treating and costumes, guests can enjoy meet and greets with their favorite Disney characters and Disney Villains. During the meet and greet special entertainment unique to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will be performed throughout the park including special lighting, music and theming events that transform the Magic Kingdom into happy haunted hollows!! Plus, many popular Magic Kingdom attractions like The Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain, and much more---are available to experience.

The ghostly party dates are: Sept. 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30; Oct. 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31; and Nov. 1.

With plenty of dates and times to get to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party you have no excuse not to spend the candy holiday at the most magical place on Earth! And remember the party starts at 7 and ends at the stroke of midnight so make sure you’re there on time to enjoy all that this wonderful event has to offer!

Walt Disney World Pumpkin Design Tips

2010-09-24T17:33:57-04:00

As Halloween looms around the corner many Orlando theme parks are ushering in festive holiday decorations throughout their parks. And since most of these theme parks have their own famed Halloween events, there are plenty of unique decorations to look at on your trip to Orlando.

Walt Disney World’s themed carved pumpkins began making appearances throughout Magic Kingdom a few weeks ago and now the master carvers behind the pumpkins are sharing their secrets to make the perfect pumpkin carving!

There are 182 unique designs all along Main Street U.S.A. From a hot dog pumpkin over Casey’s Corner to a snowman pumpkin, Magic Kingdom boasts several different designs and shapes throughout the park. These specialty hand-carved pumpkins on the buildings and windows have been redesigned with different designs and shapes, according to David Hartmann, an art director with Walt Disney Entertainment.

If you’ve always wanted to re-create that perfect pumpkin carving, Disney is offering some advice from the very people who make Main Street U.S.A. so festive this time of year:

Pick your pumpkin – Before you buy, put your potential pumpkin on the floor or ground and make sure it sits straight. If you can “see” where the face should go, it’s the right pumpkin for you. Start sketching on paper -- Once you start cutting into the pumpkin, it’s too late to go back. First, draw your design on a piece of paper (grocery bag, old wrapping paper, newspaper) the same size as your pumpkin. Once you’ve got your design just how you want it, you’re ready to move the design to your pumpkin. Disney’s Event and Decorating Support used an overhead projector and a black marker, but you can just as easily use a toothpick or fork. Hold your pattern to the pumpkin and poke a tiny hole through the paper every half-inch or so. When you take the paper away, you’ll have a dotted outline to follow. Carve the lid at an angle – If you cut up-and-down around the pumpkin’s stem, your cap could fall through. Don’t worry if you don’t carve a perfect circle. That will actually help you find the “right” way to put the lid back on. Skip the candle – All of the pumpkins along Main Street, U.S.A use LEDs (light-emitting diodes). Much safer than an open flame, LEDs don’t get hot. They also last longer than a candle and won’t blow out in the wind. New LEDs even flicker like a real flame.

Now you can create your very own version of Disney’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween event in your very front porch with these wonderful tips from the experts! Plus, don’t forget to enjoy your Disney World ticket at the actual Not-So-Scary Halloween event!

Orlando Theme Parks Win Industry Awards

2010-09-27T10:37:30-04:00

It’s that time of year again, the time when Amusement Today names the winners of its annual Golden Ticket Awards, which are based on a survey of people described as “experienced and well-traveled” amusement park fans around the world. Awards were given in 25 categories and a big round of applause goes out to Orlando theme parks as they scooped up quite a few of these prestigious awards.

Universal Orlando and Island’s Adventure were the top winners in Orlando with 4 of the 6 awards going to the movie-based theme park. And it was no surprise what the best new ride of 2010 went to; Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. The signature ride of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Forbidden journey takes guests through scenes and environments in and around Hogwarts Castle from the various books and films of the Harry Potter series. The experience includes flying around Hogwarts castle, encountering the Whomping Willow and a horde of Dementors, and being caught in a Quidditch match.

Best Halloween Event was given to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando. And after 20 years of scaring the pants off of its attendees, it’s no wonder why the biggest Halloween event is being recognized. And this year Fear himself will be taking over the park as Halloween Horror Nights remembers the past 20 years of fear with even more scare tactics, haunted houses and scare zones.

Universal Orlando came away with two more awards, one for best dark ride: Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Islands of Adventure and Best indoor roller coaster: Revenge of the Mummy. Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man is one of the most highly acclaimed theme park rides in history. An amazing 3-D adventure, this unique ride takes guests through live special effects, making you feel like you are actually in the story. Based on the popular Mummy movie franchise, Revenge of the Mummy features warrior mummies, treasures and tombs, a scarab beetle attack, forwards and backwards motions and surround sound speakers inside each vehicle. This ride has done a great job incorporating all of the terrifying thrills and excitement of The Mummy and placed guests right in the middle of the action!

Over at Orlando’s only marine based park, SeaWorld was awarded the honor of best marine life park and Walt Disney World Epcot Center was awarded best outdoor night show production for IllumiNations: Reflections of the Earth. Seen atop the World Showcase Lagoon, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth; is a spectacular 12-minute fireworks show that brings together the past, present and future of our planet and its colorful nations.

For more information on the rides and attractions listed you’ll just have to visit the theme parks yourself!

Changes Made to Wizarding World Ride For Larger Guests

2010-09-29T13:17:05-04:00

It’s been just three months since Universal Orlando opened the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction and already the site has become one of the most popular places to visit at any Orlando theme park. But in recent months there have been some grumbles from patrons about Wizarding World’s most popular ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

It’s hard to imagine what the complaints have been about a ride that takes you through scenes and environments in and around Hogwarts castle. The technology alone is said to”transform the theme park experience as you know it.” But the grumbles aren’t about the rides technology, special effects or how accurate it is to the Harry Potter movies. No, the complaints have been about the size of the seats. In August an article was posted on Wesh 2 about a 300 pound man, Banks Lee, who was turned away from Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey due to his size.

Universal said at the time that all the seat restraints on the ride required three clicks from the safety bar. If the bar does not click three times for someone, the patron is asked to get up.

The bar did not click for Banks and he had to leave the ride. Fortunately he took it in stride and launched his own blog, called ‘Three Clicks,” to motivate weight loss.

“And it just blew up. People said I was positive motivation, saying I am inspiring them. It’s such a breath of fresh air that people are not complaining or suing, because it is my fault—because I’m overweight,” Lee Said.

He said he was determined to get back on the ride and hear those three clicks by the end of the year. And that may come sooner then he realizes.

Universal spokesperson Tom Schroder said on Monday, September 20 that some of the ride vehicles have now been modified to accommodate larger guests. More of the modified vehicles are said to be on the way.

The Forbidden Journey ride vehicles seat four people. The outer two seats are the only ones that are modified on the updated vehicles.

Stay tuned for more Wizarding World of Harry Potter news as Universal Orlando continues to make improvements to Harry Potter and the Forbidden journey. We hope everybody, big or small gets to experience this ride one day and we’re sure Universal will do everything they can to make that happen. Until then you can always enjoy the other fascinating sites at Wizarding World including Hogsmeade where you can shop Flich’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods, Owl Post, Honeydukes, Ollivanders, Zonkos and explore all that there is to discover about Harry Potter’s world!

More Teases on Project 2011 at Busch Gardens

2010-10-01T10:57:46-04:00

It’s been several months and Busch Gardens has yet to reveal what is behind those construction walls at the popular Orlando theme park. And although nothing has been officially announced the theme park continues to releases teasers that have us all guessing as to what it could possibly be.

On Friday Busch Gardens released an official image on their Facebook page of the new Project 2011 attraction. The picture reveals to be a piece of coaster track being welded together. The track looks to be from coaster company Intamin, which leads us all to believe that the new project will in fact be an Intamin Launch Coaster.

Despite teaser videos from Busch Gardens officials Jim Dean, Mark Rose and Mike Boos, and sheer speculation about what exactly Project 2011 is, we still don’t know for sure what is going on behind those construction walls. But we do know a few things, like that it appears to be a coaster and that it’s going to take up a huge space. We also know that it is going to change the landscape of the park as it has already taken the old Clydesdale Hamlet, the Skyline Station, the monorail station, a bridge and new entrance into Edge of Africa has been built, and its taken part of the Rhino Rally attraction. Rumor has it that Project 2011 will also change the look of Crown Colony restaurant located near the Egypt section of the park. And of course we know that this mysterious attraction will feature animal exhibits probably showcasing a specific animal like we’ve never seen it before. And of course the motto for this new attraction is “Feel the spirit. Feel the speed.” Hmmm, what do you think that means?

If you want more information we can’t really help you. You’ll just have to wait until the official announcement or until the newest attraction is unveiled in Spring 2011. That’s not too long to wait, is it?

If in fact the wait IS too long, you can always get your fill of Busch Gardens and perhaps a glimpse behind the construction wall during Howl-O-Scream beginning September 30 through Halloween night. And again, if patience isn’t your thing and waiting until the end of September won’t do, you can catch a Howl-O-Scream preview on September 24 and 25. Busch Gardens recently revealed the theme of the popular Halloween event to be a rock concert. Up until recently we weren’t sure what that meant but we’ve discovered that a sinister rock band has taken over the park and just as you fall for this band, you’ll be screaming for mercy!

Aside from Howl-O-Scream Busch Gardens has plenty of festivities to look forward in the next coming months so don’t wait until Spring 2011 to visit. Get there now!

Disney Guests Will Become Stars of New Castle Show Beginning in 2011

2010-10-04T17:04:06-04:00

In just a few short months, Disney guests will get their fifteen minutes of fame during a nightly spectacular when photos taken during the day become larger-than-life projections on Cinderella’s Castle. This new experience has been created to celebrate the family vacation memories created in Disney theme parks every day.

As a part of the new “Let the Memories Begin” campaign Disney guests will begin starring on television as early as this week. For the first time Disney parks are featuring the home videos and snapshots of real guests in television ads and other marketing that will allow an audience of millions to share in true-life moments.

Disney is asking guests to upload their photos and videos of Disney visits in order to create the television campaign. So if you have a sweet video of your daughter meeting a Disney princess or a hilarious picture of you and your son screaming your heads off on Splash Mountain make sure you send them in and maybe you will be featured on the “Let the Memories Begin” television commercials.

“A Disney vacation is the perfect way to create family memories that will last a lifetime,” said Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney parks and Resorts. “We’ll spotlight those ‘only-at-Disney’ moments with family and friends during our ‘Let the memories Begin’ campaign.”

Some of these memories will be shared online while others may be selected to share in print ads, brochures and other marketing, including television ads across the United States and Canada.

“We wanted to give our guests a powerful way to share the memories they create every day in our parks,” Staggs said. “Essentially, this becomes our first user-generated show and our first user-generated marketing campaign.”

And to accompany the ‘Let the memories begin’ campaign Disney parks will be adding new theme park experiences in both California and Florida, new vacation opportunities on Disney Cruise Line, a new luxury resort in Hawaii and new ways to explore the world with Adventures by Disney.

Here are a few of the Walt Disney World experiences to come:

New Star Tours 3-D Adventure-Combining two Star Wars trilogies, “Star Tours: The Adventures Continue will take flight in 2011 and take voyagers to thrilling destinations throughout the “Star Wars” galaxy. And of course it will all happen in 3-D!

As for new experiences outside of the Orlando theme park guests can enjoy The Disney Dream, the newest ship of the Disney Cruise Line fleet that will bring to life grand innovations and more! Or enjoy the mouse in paradise with Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina Hawaii! Stay tuned for More Disney happenings and new experiences!

Orlando Magic and Disney Team Up

2010-10-06T09:57:36-04:00

There’s a mouse in the building at Orlando Magic’s newest home, the Amway Center and it’s causing quite a stir amongst team members and the community.

Mickey Mouse is taking over the Amway Center with a vengeance this year as Walt Disney World and the Orlando Magic team up! A multiyear agreement was announced on September 24th making Disney the official theme park of the team and appointing Disney Parks as a “Champions of the Community” team sponsor.

On Friday morning Mickey Mouse presented Orlando Magic superstar Dwight Howard with a “mouse warming” gift in celebration of the team’s new home and a multi-year agreement with Disney. In return the Orlando Magic gave Mickey Mouse his own jersey emblazoned with the #71, a nod to the year when Walt Disney World Resort opened.

If you attend an Orlando Magic game this season, you’ll be seeing a lot more of the Mouse throughout the Amway Center.

“Just like Disney ears that say ‘Go Magic,’ we’ll have plenty of opportunities going forward,” Magic President Alex Martins said. ‘They’ll be included in the digital signage and technology throughout the building.”

Very few specifics are set in stone just yet but the pair are already talking about co-hosting charity events and fundraisers, and working together for a presence in the community.

“We’ve got the agreement, we’ve shook hands, we’re all focused on the same vision and objective—now where do we go from here?” said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Disney Sports Enterprises. “I think that’s what we’re figuring out next. It’s really built on the concept of making Central Florida a better place,” Potruck added. “All of this ultimately benefits Central Florida.”

Disney parks aren’t the first to join the “Champions of the Community” at the Orlando Magic. GEICO, PepsiCo, AirTran Airways and Harris Corporation are all sponsors of the team.

We can’t help but wonder why this dynamic duo hasn’t been in effect ever since the Orlando Magic assembled in Orlando in 1989. The team is called the “Magic” after all and Disney is always offering to provide its guests with its “magic.” But however long it took we’re glad the two have finally joined forces and we’re more than excited to see what excitement they can bring to Orlando. Perhaps Mickey will join Stuff the Magic Dragon courtside to get the audience on their feet. Or maybe guests to Disney will find Orlando Magic memorabilia sprinkled through the park. The opportunities are endless! Whatever happens, we know the two will do a great job reaching out to the community and making memories that last a lifetime!

HowlOScreams Alone Haunted House Beyond Scary

2010-10-08T09:58:54-04:00

After months of teases on the theme and anticipation over if Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream event would live up to its hype, Busch Gardens’ fans and Halloween enthusiasts can rest assured that this year’s Howl-O-Scream is by far its scariest event yet!

What about this year’s event is scaring the pants off of park goers? What else than the haunted houses. Haunted houses in most Halloween events are the number one spook experience for guests and this year Busch Gardens has pushed the envelope with a few of their newly designed haunted houses. In fact, they aren’t your typical stand-in-a-single-file-line-while-bloody-corpse-and-scary-faces-jump-out-at you. No, this year Busch Gardens is redefining the meaning of a haunted house!

First up on the Howl-O-Scream haunted houses is ‘Alone’. The newest scream-your-lungs-out attraction let’s you experience the house all by yourself, or with a group of four, making your time amongst the haunted even creepier and scarier than you can imagine. Alone is designed to be personal, like what you’d experience if you really were to encounter an actual haunted house by yourself and not with a long line of people behind you. And when a haunted house’s main focus is to be personal, you can bet the ghouls and goblins within will give you all of the attention you don’t want!

The story behind Alone has you visiting the collection of the deranged Master Alexander Daedalus in a place he calls Minotaur Storage. After a seemingly long, but really short, elevator ride down in the dark of the storage you meet some of Master Daedalus’ assistants. They warn you to look but don’t touch. You soon find out the Master’s obsession with hoarding has expanded to people, and if you don’t watch your back you might be his next prized possession.

So far the haunted house has been a success and is expected to return during next year’s festivities. Such an experience has even been discussed at Universal Studios Resort but has yet to come to fruition. Maybe after Howl-O-Scream’s success Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights will step up their game.

There is one drawback to this unique experience however; you have to pay to walk through it. Seems odd you have to pay to be tortured but it’s true. So if you aren’t into paying more on top of your Howl-O-Scream ticket make sure you check out Busch Gardens’ many other sinister houses like Death Row Vengeance, Trapped in the Walls: Ghostchasers or Taste of Blood: A Different View, all free of charge with your ticket. And trust us, just because these haunted houses don’t come with a fee doesn’t mean they don’t pack a mighty scare!

How Orlando Universal Just Got Scarier

2010-10-11T14:26:19-04:00

In its third week of placing fear into the hearts and souls of Orlando residents and visitors, Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights: 20 Years of Fear is clearly the most frightening Halloween event Central Florida and its surrounding areas has ever seen! And this year you won’t have to worry about Dracula sucking your blood, Frankenstein lurking towards you or the wolfman howling in your ear, because universal has replaced its traditional scare characters with downright horrifying ones!

The trio, made up by Universal Studios in the 1930’s and ‘40’s just doesn’t scare the crowds like they used to, which explains why Universal has some other scarier ghouls and goblins in store for the Halloween enthusiast. In fact, these characters are a far cry from the blood-sucking, moon-howling creatures of the past. Yes, these fearful players are downright demonic, fiendish and utterly terrifying! So terrifying, kids are forbidden during the event

“We want to get the message across that these are PG-13 rated experiences,” a Universal resort rep told PEOPLE.

“Some of our houses are so intense, people have serious reactions, we don’t want little kids at our event,” said Universal Orlando Resort show director Patrick Braillard. Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment, adds: “We could literally make our own new movies from these characters. The lighting, the special effects, the visuals—we do everything we can to suspend your disbelief and take away your illusion of control.”

And your sense of control is certainly lost when you step inside one of Halloween Horror Nights’ many haunted houses and realize you have just stepped into a terror zone! The special effects, lighting and incredible back stories to these haunted houses make it feel like you’re in your own personal horror movie and escaping alive is your only goal!

For a sneek scare at what you’re in for when you purchase a Halloween Horror Nights ticket here is a quick breakdown of the most frightening haunted houses in the park:

“Hades: The Gates of Ruin” takes you into the underworld, with demons literally popping out of the woodwork. If you like the works of Edgar Allen Poe and Stephen King you might find yourself lured to the “Horror Nights: The Hallowed Past” haunted house where the up spooky old legends of the past and present seem to come to life. “PsychoScareapy: Echoes of Shadybrook” takes you into the Shadybrook Sanitarium 15 years after the inmates have taken over the asylum so you can imagine what kind of torture you’ll find in that house! But what you won’t find are any vampires, ghosts or chainsaw-wielding phantoms because when Fear comes to visit he brings only the scariest creatures with him!

Orlando Theme Park Holiday Preview

2010-10-13T10:04:59-04:00

Orlando Theme Park Holiday Preview

2010-10-13T10:28:54-04:00

It’s just a few weeks into October but already Orlando theme parks are hustling and bustling with holiday setup. With Halloween just weeks away, Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and Busch Gardens are in full fledge Halloween mode. But with just a month and a half from Thanksgiving and two months until Christmas, these theme parks aren’t taking any breaks between not until New Year’s. So, in an effort to highlight some of the coming holiday events without taking away from Halloween, we’d like to introduce Orlando theme park’s upcoming holiday parties, starting with a quick view of Disney’s festivities.

What’s a Florida holiday without Mickey? Well, it’s not a holiday at all! And that’s why Walt Disney World has a plethora of holiday events to look forward to. Like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas, the annual Christmas event held at Magic Kingdom beginning in November that features the enchanted castle dream lights on Cinderella’s Castle, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade, an exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza, a magical snow fall on main Street, U.S.A. and more!

Other special holiday attractions and events include the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights at Hollywood Studios. An incredible mega-watt display fills the studios back lot with 3-D and animated displays, giant Santa Clause displays and a giant Mickey mouse made out of a zillion twinkling lights making this attraction an absolute must see! But there is other Disney Christmas magic that may be best appreciated in the unexpected discovery of some of its less-trumpeted features.

For example, guests can enjoy a festive gingerbread house inside the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. At 16 feet high, and compromised of thousands of gingerbread pieces, guests can actually walk inside the Victorian house. The house doubles as a mini bakery where guests can purchase edible gingerbread cookies and other sweet treats.

Over at Epcot watch the enchanting retelling of the Christmas story during the Candelight Processional. The story includes a choir, symphony orchestra and celebrity narrators such as Whoopi Goldberg, Isabella Rossellini and trace Adkins.

There’s plenty more Holiday festivities to attend at Disney World but since we’ve just started Halloween month, we’ll wait to give you the full details about Orlando theme parks holiday fun. Until then make sure you check out either Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens or Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney. Or if you’re feeling extra festive check out all three for a busy, and scary October!

We’ll have more on the Holiday events in the coming weeks so check back soon!

SeaWorlds Halloween Spooktacular

2010-10-15T10:13:37-04:00

From now until October 31 guests to SeaWorld can celebrate an ocean of Halloween fun at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular! Perfect for the little ones, this special event lets kids stroll among costumed sea creatures, trick-or-treat for ghoulish goodies, catch silly and spooky shows like the Muppet-based show “Countdown to Halloween” and more! Kids even get to dress up in costume to celebrate Halloween with the rest of the SeaWorld crew!

Kids will love Seasame Street’s Countdown to Halloween Live Musical Stage Show featuring Count Von Count, Elmo and his new friends! And what’s Halloween without a little trick-or-treating? Kids can delight in sweet treats at 14 different treasure stations throughout the park. And if you need a place to take a break and munch on some of those treats check out the frozen fun zone where DJ’s, interactive games and activities will keep you occupied for hours! Plus, meet fun-loving Sea Witches, Gummy Worm Wanda, Salt Water Taffy and Swedish Fish Suzy along with 35 other fanciful sea creatures.

But perhaps the best part of the whole event is that it is included in the price of admission! That’s right! When you buy a SeaWorld ticket you’ll get instant access to SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular! The event takes place every Saturday and Sunday at noon beginning October 8 until October 31. Guests to the event can still enjoy all of the amazement and excitement of the aquatic theme park as they enjoy a Halloween under the sea!

Watch the sensational Shamu show, Believe which blends new killer whale behaviors with elaborate set pieces, state-of-the-art multimedia, music, and choreography. Or see Shamu rock the world in a rock n’ roll concert in Shamu Rocks. If you’d like a little more thrills on your trip to SeaWorld you can experience the mythological underwater beast in the ride Kraken. Consistently ranked one of the world’s top 10 coasters by ride enthusiasts, Orlando’s tallest, fastest and only floorless steel coaster is an absolute must-ride on your SeaWorld vacation. And for something a little more tame but still adventurous try Journey to Atlantis. Explore the lost city of Atlantis as you ride along a dark, watery passageway on some of the steepest, wettest plunges you’ll find before casting you out of the ill-fated paradise.

There’s plenty more to see and do at this popular Orlando theme park but whatever you do make sure you come and stay for the Halloween Spooktacular from now until October 31! You’re kids will love all of the fun shows, costumes and treats and you’ll have a great time seeing them so happy. So what are you waiting for? Get to SeaWorld today and start celebrating Halloween all month-long!

SeaWorlds Killer Whale Gives Birth to 7th Calf

2010-10-18T10:55:43-04:00

SeaWorld Orlando is celebrating this week as their oldest killer whale named Katiana gave birth on Saturday night to her 7th calf. Park officials say the baby orca is 7-feet long and weighed in at 350 pounds. Park spokesman Nick Gollattscheck says the sex of the calf won't be known for some time. Veterinarians are monitoring the whales to make sure both are healthy.

The birth welcomes good news to SeaWorld, which has lost three killer whales in the past five months. Katiana’s firstborn, 25-year old Kalina, died suddenly on October 4. Necropsy results are pending for Kalina’s death. In June 20-year-old Taima died while giving birth to a stillborn calf.

The birth brings the 16th killer whale to be born at the Orlando theme park.

You can bet the newest addition to SeaWorld will soon be appearing in some of SeaWorld’s famous shows. But until the orca is ready you can always explore SeaWorld’s whales at one of their many exciting shows! Like Believe the sensational Shamu show where killer whales show off their behaviors mixed with elaborate set pieces, state-of-the-art multimedia, music and choreography. Or see Shamu rock in the show Shamu Rocks where killer whales provide improvisational movements to rock music. Aand for other sea creature shows you can always watch the hilarious Sea Lions Tonite where the park’s talented sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite SeaWorld shows.

For more animal interactions you can always visit the Wild Arctic and enter a frozen wonderland where you’ll encounter abundant Arctic animal life including coming face-to-face with real walruses, beluga whales and two famous polar bears named Klondike and Snow. Or head to the Antarctic and experience the popular Penguin Encounter where you can get a up-close-and personal view of these wabbly creatures. And for a taste of the sea life at Key West visit Dolphin Cove, one of the largest interactive dolphin pools in the world that’s home to a pod of playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins!

After your day with SeaWorld’s wildlife, make sure you check out the other non-animal attractions the park has to offer. Dive deep and fly high with Manta the only flying roller coaster of its kind in the world! Manta will have you spinning, gliding and skimming over the park in a giant stingray unlike any other ride you’ve ever been on before. Or experience the Kraken, a monster roller coaster that will lift you higher, drop you longer and spiral you faster than any other coaster in Orlando.

No matter what you decide to do at SeaWorld, make sure you check out the newest addition to the killer whale family. We’re sure you’ll see the baby soon enough!

Universal Orlando Boasts 2010 as its Highest Rated Halloween Horror Nights

2010-10-20T09:18:10-04:00

It’s only been open for a little over two weeks now and already Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights XX guests have given the event the highest overall rating in its twenty-year history. Guests also reportedly said it is the scariest Halloween Horror Nights in five years!

“We set out to make this Halloween Horror Nights scarier, more intense and more entertaining than any other year,” said Jim Timon, Senior Vice President of Entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. “We’re glad our guests are having a great time.”

Universal’s guest ratings are based on extensive surveys of guests after they have experienced the event. Universal uses the surveys as part of its effort to constantly improve the guest experience. This year, more guests are giving Halloween Horror Nights the highest possible overall ratings than in any year since the company began its Halloween event surveys in 1996.

Amusement Today’s annual Golden Ticket Awards are among the most prestigious awards in the amusement industry. Winners are chosen based on results from a poll that is sent to hundreds of experienced theme park enthusiast around the world.

In fact, Halloween Horror Nights 2010 has already won Amusement Today’s 2010 Golden Ticket Award for the “Best Halloween Event” in the country. This is the third consecutive year it has received this honor.

Why is Halloween Horror Nights XX getting so much attention this year? Is it really that much scarier than years past? Yes, yes it is! And it might just be because of the plethora of new haunted houses and scare zones like Horror Nights: The Hallow’d Past, The Orfanage: Ashes to Ashes or Hades; The Gates of Ruin that are scaring the pants off of guests from all over the country.

But don’t take our word for it. If you want to experience what all the hype is over this year’s Halloween Horror Nights make sure you buy your ticket today. You only have a few weeks left to experience Fear himself and the most terrifying Halloween event imaginable. And now OrlandoFunTickets is offering 2-Day Park To Park With Halloween Horror Nights Combo Tickets for just $171.69, Halloween Horror Nights Any-Day Tickets for only $72.95 or Halloween Horror Nights Sunday-Thursday tickets for $48.95 so now you can enjoy the Halloween event and all that Universal Studios Resort has to offer at the best rates possible!

So if you want to come face to face with your greatest fears, get to Halloween Horror Nights for an evening of bloodcurdling screams and pulse-pounding frights! And remember only OrlandoFunTickets can offer you tickets to this Halloween event at a price that’ll scare you!

SeaWorld Parks Announce New Chief Operating Officer

2010-10-22T12:55:04-04:00

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment promoted Dan Brown, President of the company’s three Orlando Parks—SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove and Aquatica—to Chief Operating Officer, SeaWorld Parks on October 12.

Dan Brown, 56, will now oversee operations at SeaWorlds in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio, as well as SeaWorld Orlando’s smaller sister parks, Aquatica and Discovery Cove.

“Dan is among the most respected and experienced executives in the t hem-park industry,” Jim Atchinson, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment President and Chief Executive Officer, said in a written statement. “His contribution to SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment span more than three decades and have benefitted every park and virtually every aspect of our business.”

The company’s remaining parks—Busch Gardens Tampa, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Adventure Island, Water Country USA and Sesame Place are under the corporate supervision of Donnie Mills, Chief Operating Officer, Busch Gardens and Sesame Place.

Brown got his start at Busch Gardens Tampa in 1975 where he occupied a variety of progressively responsible corporate and park roles. He was then asked to manage the company’s Tampa water park, Adventure Island in 1984. From there he relocated to St. Louis, MO in 1990 to oversee the company’s business analysis program and serve as Executive Assistant to then-President John B. Roberts.

Brown was later promoted to Corporate Vice President Operations and in 1999 to Park President of Busch Gardens and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va. He eventually moved to Tampa in 2003 to lead Busch Gardens and Adventure Island and then to Orlando in 2007 to head SeaWorld, Orlando.

We look forward to seeing the changes Brown and his crew will implement in the coming years to SeaWorld Parks. But until then you can always enjoy the marine adventure park with special OrlandoFunTickets pricing anytime you want! Check out the SeaWorld and Aquatica combo ticket or single ticket to SeaWorld or Aquatica and get the 2nd visit free! That means you can experience the world famous Shamu and all of his sea animal friends before heading over to Aqautica for a little animal water park fun!

And now you can experience a new saltwater environment called “Grand Reef” at Discovery Cove which is the first major expansion of the theme park in its 10-year existence. The 2.5 acre Grand Reef is expected to open next June and will be a lush tropical environment with a white-sand beach, underwater grottoes and a palm-tree-lined island. It will be built around an aquarium filled with more than 1 million gallons of water and 125 species of fish, rays and sharks.

So make sure you check back soon as Brown begins his duties as well as next June to see the “Grand Reef” exhibit!

Gatorland Sponsors Pet Amnesty Day

2010-10-22T15:37:42-04:00

On Saturday October 23, Gatorland will be sponsoring Pet Amnesty Day, a chance for people who own exotic, non-native animals to turn them in without penalty. The event, in conjunction with the Florida Fish and wildlife Conservation Commission, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Orlando theme park.

And if you are an experienced exotic pet owner you may be in luck! From now until the event the commission is taking applications for potential Orlando adopters who are experienced in handling these wild animals. Adopters must complete the application and have the required permits before the amnesty day in order to receive animals. Each animal that is turned in will be examined by a veterinarian in efforts to pair healthy animals with adopters. We hope plenty of adopters will come out for this event and take in a few exotic animals.

If you don’t already know, in Florida, it’s illegal to release non-native animals into the wild. That’s why amnesty day has been established and you can surrender your exotic animals to the wildlife commission with no questions asked and no fines.

“This event gives pet owners who can no longer take care of their pets—or no longer wish to keep them—a legal, ethical option,” said Jenny Tinnell, a biologist with the commission.

This is a free event, and there will be live animals on display as well as experts to teach about the proper care of exotic pets.

And while you’re at Gatorland you might as well enjoy all of the exotic animals the park has to offer with discounted tickets on both adult and children admission. Explore the 110-acre theme park where gators roam and adventure lurks around every corner for just $18.95 for adults or $11.95 for children. Come see the different types of reptiles, the famous alligator wrestling show, a breeding marsh with boardwalk and observation tower, petting zoo, aviaries, swamp walk, educational programs and so much more for so much less!

Known internationally as the Alligator capital of the world, Gatorland is one of Central Florida’s oldest attractions and provides “old Florida charm” with exciting exhibits and wildlife entertainment. So if you are looking for something fun to do this weekend why not stop by Gatorland for Pet Amnesty Day and then enjoy all the park has to offer afterwards! And if you do have an exotic pet you’d like to hand over or one you’d like to adopt, make sure you get to the park by 2 p.m. to take advantage of this special event.

Couple Says I Do at Halloween Horror Nights

2010-10-25T11:12:24-04:00

This year Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights is ushering in plenty of new scares and frights for the 20th anniversary of its debut. But one event you might not be expecting to see is a wedding. Yes, for the first time ever Halloween Horror Nights welcomed a couple and their guests for a first-time ever wedding at the gory event!

But not everything about the wedding was scary. In fact, the brides’ dress was void of any rips, blood or tears. The bride and groom were dressed quite traditionally as they stood in front of one of the scariest back drops in Halloween history. Believe it or not, this couple wanted to keep the gore to the professionals and cast members for their special day.

“We’re dressing normal,” she said about an hour before Friday’s ceremony. “We do love Halloween, but I’ve also been dreaming of my wedding forever, so I still wanted the white dress and he’ll be rocking a tux.”

Richardson and Cochran were the winners of a Universal contest that she found on Facebook. They submitted a photo they used for “Happy Halloween” card last year and within a few weeks the couple was standing in front of Halloween Horror Nights haunted house Legendary Truth: The Wyandot Estate and saying their “I Do’s.”

And if you’re wondering if the couple’s guests were as traditionally dressed as they were you’d be surprised to learn that there was a mix of both evening wear and spooky costumes. The guest list included friends, family and an assortment of Halloween Horror Nights characters, including Jack the clown, the queen of hearts, five menacing chainsaw-wielding characters and others.

The couple met while students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and have quite a history of dressing up for Halloween.

“Halloween on Franklin Street is a very big deal, so we dressed up every year and went,” she said. One year they were Pebbles and Bam-Bam. Another year the bride was a little scarier as she went as Carrie, and he once grew his hair out to become Captain Jack Sparrow. She’s also been Robin, he’s been the Joker. Last year they were zombies.

The happy couple had been to Halloween Horror Nights three times before this year.

“We had to miss last year because we moved to Vermont for my job,” Cochran said.

“We started at Sweet 16 and did 16, 17 and 18 before missing 19,” Richardson said.

And as traditional as their dress was so was the ceremony, despite the spooky, fog-filled setting. But their first trip as a married couple did include a trip in a hearse to the wedding reception!

Good luck to the couple and we hope to see you back here on your 1 year anniversary!

Disney Unveils iPhone Apps for New Video Game

2010-10-27T09:34:22-04:00

Ok, all of you Apple and gaming fans Walt Disney has some exciting news about their newest video game “Epic Mickey.” The game has now released a few “teaser” apps for those interested in what “Epic Mickey” is all about. After having seen the apps we can tell you the game takes place in the “Wasteland,” a crazy Disneyland whose primary resident is not Mickey, but Walt’s original cartoon creation: Oswald the Lucky Rabbit.

According to the back story in the apps, the wizard Yen Sid, from Fantasia’s “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” created the wasteland as a home for Oswald and other mostly-forgotten Disney characters. Oswald has also created an animatronic Donald and Goofy, from spare parts he’s scavenged from his Magic Kingdom.

The game seems to evoke T.S. Eliot’s 1992 composition of death and disorder, “The Waste Land.” Odd coming from the “happiest place on Earth” but the game seems to poke fun at Disney in a fun, self-depreciating manner. For example, in New Orleans Square there seems to be a twisted take on Pirates of the Caribbean and its dig at “It’s a Small World” theme song.

The app includes a free online comic, which reveals what surely will be some game play tips for Epic Mickey in the course of telling a quick story about Oswald and his animatronic friends. So if you’re a gamer and a Disney gamer at that you might want to check out the “Epic Mickey” teaser apps for a glimpse into a distorted Disney!

If you’re more interested in the traditional Disney, especially Disney World you can always find the best offers and deals under our Walt Disney tab above. And remember, you only have a few more days to take advantage of Mickey’s—Not—So—Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom. But if you miss it, don’t’ worry. Disney is gearing up for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party which begins November 8 with tickets already on sale at OrlandoFunTickets.com.

And speaking of the holidays and Disney, make sure you get to Hollywood Studios for the Osborne Family Christmas Lights. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is the primary Holiday Happening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and with a megawatt, multi-colored spectacle that Show Director John Phelan calls “the ultimate Americana holiday lights display,” this show is one you don’t want to miss. The Osborne lights are available for viewing beginning November 8 and will stay up through January 3.

As always there’s plenty to see and do in the world of Disney! From new video games to holiday happenings, this Orlando theme park knows how to satisfy its guests and with so many current and upcoming events you’ll be sure to find something you enjoy!

SeaWorld Begins Planning Christmas Celebration

2010-10-29T09:36:59-04:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! At least at one major Orlando theme park that is! Now that we’ve said goodbye to Halloween and October many Orlando theme parks are beginning to say hello to Holiday festivities. SeaWorld Orlando certainly has as they’ve spent the past few weeks planning and getting ready for the holiday season!

And this year you can experience some new shows and attractions in SeaWorld’s line-up of wintery wonderland fun including “Sea of Trees.” 74 decorated holiday trees will line the water of the park, featuring lights that dance to your favorite holiday tunes.

Old holiday favorites will be returning as well including the Winter Wonderland on Ice skating show. The Bayside Stadium stage will once again play host to the ice-skating extravaganza where ice skaters, fountains and fireworks captivate your evening. You can also find “Shamu Christmas—Miracles,” “Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas” and “A Sesame Street Christmas” throughout the park. The night ends with Holiday Reflections, the magical fireworks and fountains show. Watch as soaring fountains, dazzling lights and festive fireworks light up the night like you’ve never seen before!

Guests to the SeaWorld Holiday event can also enjoy the Polar Express Experience, which has been transformed from the Wild Arctic attraction. This simulator ride will take you on a train ride from the movie and culminate with a visit with Santa himself! From the second the conductor yells “all aboard” to your arrival at the North Pole, this ride will immerse you in all things Christmas!

And if you get hungry during your SeaWorld Christmas Celebration but are afraid to take a break and miss all of the festivities, don’t’ worry, there are plenty of restaurants and dining experiences that include Christmas fun in the meal. Enjoy an ultimate Polynesian celebration of the season at the Ultimate Makahiki Christmas Celebration. Complete with island music, incredible entertainment and great feasts, this special luau let’s you experience another culture of Christmas in a way only SeaWorld can bring to life. If you’d like to spend your meals in a more traditional manner stop by Santa’s Fireside Feast and enjoy an exclusive lunch with Santa and Mrs. Clause. Both the Luau and Santa’s Fireside Feast are available at an additional charge so make sure you bring your wallet!

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration begins November 26-December 12 Friday through Sunday. Beginning on December 17-January 2 the Christmas Celebration will be held every night.

Make sure you come out to SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration this year! With plenty of shows, attractions, tours and dining experiences to enjoy this event is sure to fill your holidays with a Christmas glee you’ve never felt before!

Disney World Welcomes Wild Africa Trek At Animal Kingdom

2010-11-01T12:41:18-04:00

Walt Disney World Orlando is proud to announce the Wild Africa Trek at Animal Kingdom! In an all-new Disney adventure guests who purchase the Wild Africa Trek at Animal Kingdom will get an even more in-depth view of the wild animals that roam this fascinating park. The unique wildlife experience is expected to launch in early 2011 but reservations have already begun.

The three-hour, expert-led adventure will immerse guests in the realms and wildlife thrills of far-off Africa—without leaving the property of Walt Disney World! In small groups, guests on the Wild Africa Trek will enjoy up-close-and personal encounters with African wildlife species that make their home in Pangani Forest as well as other areas of the park’s Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

The newest addition to Disney World and Animal Kingdom is definitely for the adventure-enthusiasts as the trek takes you closer to crocodiles, hippos, and more exotic African wildlife than ever before. In fact, guests will even be clipped to a lifeline as they step to the very edge of a cliff for even better views of the wildlife.

“Adventure-minded guests will have the experience of a lifetime as they get immersed in an authentic African safari experience that only Disney can deliver. We are thrilled to be offering this unique outdoor adventure aimed at active vacationers, taking interactions with the incredible animals that inhabit the Harambe Reserve to the next level and literally blazing new trails in our park,” said Michael Colglazier, vice president of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Wild Africa Trek will be offered several times daily at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Groups will consist of no more than 12 trekkers per safari.

If you like to watch your fury African friends but from afar you can still enjoy Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris, Pangani Forest Exploration Trail, Maharajah Jungle Trek and more! And if you like adventure but not in the form of being inches away from a crocodile you can get a good thrill with Animal Kingdom’s Expedition Everest. The high-altitude, high-speed roller coaster takes you to the “Roof of the World,” home of the inhospitable snarling beast, the Yeti, at the mountain’s peak. But don’t worry, the beast isn’t real but the excitement and adrenaline you’ll get from this ride sure is!

There’s plenty more to see and do at Animal Kingdom so if you are looking for a Disney adventure the whole family will love why not book your tickets today through Orlandofunticekts.com. And if you want a little more in-depth journey of the park you can always sign up now for the Wild Africa Trek coming in early 2011. But remember, this is tour is an additional fee and ticket to Animal Kingdom.

Busch Gardens Channeling the Cheetah

2010-11-03T13:15:29-04:00

You may recall rumors several months ago about Busch Gardens opening a new roller coaster to its already impressive and thrilling ride repertoire. For months we questioned what the ride would be about and what it’d be called. But now the wait is over as Busch Gardens officials announced last week that the coaster will be called Cheetah Hunt and it is expected to open in the spring.

But don’t expect the coaster to be just like all of the other rides at Busch Gardens. Cheetah Hunt won’t have a chain that lifts trains up a large lift hill. Passengers instead will be moved via electromagnets, and that movement will happen suddenly.

“You’ll be sitting in the station, and you will immediately accelerate to almost 40 miles per hour in a matter of a few seconds,” Mark Rose, vice president of design and engineering said. “We shoot you right out of the station.”

“It’s like you’re driving a Corvette, and you’re going down a street and idling about 30 or 40 miles an hour and you hit the gas and—boom—you’re at 60 miles an hour in an instant.”

The coaster lets guests encounter several launches, trenches, a watery encounter, one inversion and a period of weightlessness. Perhaps much like what you’d feel if you were being chased by a cheetah, or were a cheetah yourself.

“We think dropping into these trenches and going close to the ground will closely mimic how a cheetah might maneuver,” Rose says.

In order to imitate the cheetah and its movements, Busch Gardens took great care in researching just how a cheetah moves, runs and leaps.

“We got film of them in slow motion, and we could see how they move in the terrain and how they were very close to the ground but yet very graceful,” Rose says.

You’ll also be able to see the animals and scenic views cheetahs get to when they’re on the hunt and when they’re relaxing.

“Cheetahs themselves will have an opportunity to stretch their legs several times a day. They’ll cha se a lure and approach speeds—we’re thinking—of 60 miles per hour, just like the ride does.

It feels great to finally know what Busch Gardens has been hiding behind those walls for the past few months and we’re very excited about getting the opportunity to ride Cheetah Hunt in the spring. If you’re anything like the family at OrlandoFunTickets then you’re probably already planning your next Busch Garden vacation, especially after this news. And we don’t blame you just remember you can always find the best deals on Busch Gardens tickets and Other Orlando theme park tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

SeaWorlds New Penguin Meets Family

2010-11-05T11:01:09-04:00

On Thursday, October 28, SeaWorld Orlando’s newest addition to the animal family, the emperor penguin, began introductions to the big guy’s at the park’s Penguin Encounter. But just because the penguin is being introduced doesn’t mean she’ll be featured in the exhibit any time soon.

It’s a gradual process, park officials say. Eventually she’ll join the exhibit, once all of the penguins get to know her better and feel comfortable with her around. The exhibit boasts more than 300 penguins representing five species, so you can imagine how overwhelming the process is for everybody involved!

The female chick is the first emperor penguin to be hatched at the park in eight years. It’s the 21st successful hatching there.

The penguin, which has been kept at a nursery behind the exhibit, is growing up fast. She weighed 12 ounces when hatched on September 12 and now weighs 11 pounds!

The emperor penguin is native to the Antarctic and is the largest of the penguin family. They can reach more than 3 feet tall and weigh 90 pounds.

The Penguin Encounter lets guests experience their own little slice of Antarctica as they swim, waddle and play in the icy 45 degree water. Penguins don’t seem to mind the human encounters so you’ll get a great idea of how they really interact with each other as you watch from afar. Inside the penguin’s habitat the air is a chilly 30 degrees and nearly 6,000 pounds of snow fall daily to make the penguins feel like they really are in Antarctica.

For other animal encounters at the aquatic animal theme park make sure you visit the Shark Encounter where you’ll be taken on a journey through the world’s largest underwater viewing tunnel for a rare, look at these pre-historic predators. Or for more arctic fun head over to SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic exhibit and encounter a frozen wonderland of abundant arctic wildlife including walruses, beluga whales, polar bears and more! If you enjoy watching animal encounters in a little cooler atmosphere than you’ll probably like the Pacific Point Preserve where guests get to meet, touch and even feed some of the sea’s most remarkable creatures like sea lions and harbor seals.

We’re not 100% sure when the baby penguin will be fully introduced into the penguin exhibit but we think whenever it does happen you’ll want to be a part of it! And now you can with spectacular savings on SeaWorld tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Make sure you check back often for the most up-to-date news on the penguin and other SeaWorld news, especially as the holidays get closer.

Universal Studios Welcomes Back Grinch for Holidays

2010-11-08T09:28:33-05:00

We know it’s just the beginning of November and before you can even pull out your favorite Thanksgiving decorations, we’re springing December holiday events on you! But such is the way it is every year around this time and we figured we’d give you a little heads up on what’s to come at Orlando theme parks.

Universal Orlando Resort is spreading some joy beginning December 4 through January 1 with the return of its “Ginchmas” musical and several other holiday events. Based on the Dr. Seuss book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Grinchmas will be staged multiple times daily at Islands of Adventure. After the show feel free to wander around the Wonky Tree Lot, marvel at the lights and decorations and get your photo taken with The Grinch himself!

Also beginning on December 4 is the first of three live concerts by Mannaheim Steamroller. The group will be performing December 4, 11 and 18 on the Music Plaza stage at Universal Studios. The concerts are included in regular admission.

And if you love watching the Macy’s Day Parade in New York now’s your chance to capture all of the excitement and wonder of the parade right in your own backyard at Universal Studios! Featuring balloons seen in the actual Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, this parade will wind through Universal Studios and culminate with a nightly tree-lighting ceremony and an appearance by Santa Claus.

New to the 2010 holiday lineup is the Holiday Village where guests can stroll through the area and marvel at glass ornaments, taste some of the holidays most decadent sweets like caramel apples, hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts and get a glimpse of how to make those delicious holiday cupcakes at a cupcake-decorating location.

Over at Walt Disney World feel the holiday cheer with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party beginning November 8. Experience the enchanted Castle Dream Lights on Cinderella Castle, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade, an exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza, live entertainment featuring Disney characters, snow fall on main Street, U.S. A. and much more! And while you’re at the magical park why not check out all of the other attractions Magic Kingdom has to offer like thrilling rides, shows and attractions!

As recently mentioned SeaWorld Orlando will also be hosting their very own holiday celebration called SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration beginning November 26 through December 31. Come visit your favorite aquatic friends in a wintery, water wonderland with the Polar Express 4-D Experience, magical ice-skating, and the all-new Christmas Tails show!

Enjoy the holiday season this year at your favorite Orlando theme park! With so many options to choose from we’re positive this holiday season will be a memorable one!

Discovery Cove Park Reveals Newest Addition

2010-11-10T11:02:08-05:00

We’re proud to announce some exciting news coming to Discovery Cove in next year. SeaWorld’s sister park is getting a major expansion in spring 2011 with the addition of The Grand Reef. This new area will offer guests opportunities to interact with animals and relax in a luxurious aquatic setting they might not experience anywhere else.

The 2.5 acre exotic new reef will feature multiple levels of exploration, from shallow waters to deeper swimming adventures, white sandy beaches and hammocks, to snorkeling among canyons inspired by reefs from around the world! The reef will be built around an aquarium filled with more than 1 million gallons of water and 125 species of fish, rays and sharks.

Guests looking for a more in-depth adventure of the reef can take part in The Grand Reef’s innovative experience, SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour. Wearing dive helmets, guests will see the sea’s most beautiful creatures including lionfish and sharks and will experience one-on-one touches with schools of fish and rays that swim by. But keep in mind SeaVenture is not a part of the Discovery Cove ticketed price and is available for a nominal fee.

This will be the first expansion of Discovery Cove in the 10-years it’s been open. Smaller than the other Orlando theme parks, Discovery Cove is able to offer its guests a more intimate setting with resort-style pampering and personalized encounters with animals.

Since its opening in 2000, Discovery Cove has cultivated a loyal following and this expansion is designed to ensure that repeat visitors continue to come back.

“As we get so many repeat visitors, this will give them something new,” said Stewart Clark, the SeaWorld vice president in charge of Discovery Cove.

In other SeaWorld Park and recreation news, as mentioned in an earlier blog Busch Gardens also recently announced a new addition to their thrilling coaster lineup. The Cheetah Hunt, dubbed as a “new breed of speed” is the newest roller coaster to the park and is expected to take guests on a 60 mile per hour cheetah adventure.

Congratulations to both Discovery Cove and Busch Gardens on their newest additions. OrlandoFunTickets.com is excited to experience both the Grand Reef and Cheetah Hunt beginning in spring 2011! But if you simply can’t wait for spring to visit either park, you can always catch great deals at both parks right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Walt Disney World Hopes Newest Character Will Lift ThemePark Revenue Sales

2010-11-12T10:30:26-05:00

There’s a new costumed character at Walt Disney World but if you aren’t paying attention, you might not even know about it. It’s called “Duffy the Disney Bear” and it debuted in Walt Disney World’s Epcot and Disneyland’s Disney California Adventure just over three weeks ago. Duffy came with a slew of merchandise and is expected to help boost Disney’s souvenir sales. But in a park that only offers characters we know from the movies like Buzz Lightyear and Mickey Mouse, how is Disney expecting a little known bear to help with revenue?

Duffy is the creation of Tokyo Disney, where he is one of the most sought-after souvenirs in the Japanese resort that draws 26 million visitors each year. And after a brutal recession that effected spending in parks, Disney is betting Duffy’s merchandising strength in Japan will translate to the U.S.

“This is really a model that we’ve not done before,” said Dara Trujillo, manager of merchandise synergy and special events for Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts.

Although Duffy is a popular character in Tokyo, the loveable bear was actually born in Orlando. Initially designed as a unique product to sell in “Once Upon a Toy,” the 16,000-square-foot toy shop that opened in Disney World’s Downtown Disney in 2002, Duffy actually somewhat resembles Mickey Mouse with a Mickey-shaped face and Mickey-shaped birthmark on its hip. Unfortunately, Duffy’s resemblance to a Disney character ended there and the bear never caught on with shoppers.

That is until Tokyo Disney adopted the bear two years later, where executives were searching for fresh content for Tokyo DisneySea, one of the resort’s two theme parks. They figured it would sell in Japan where teddy bears are a popular cultural symbol.

Disney Tokyo gave the bear a back story to ensure it would sell. The bear had been made by Minnie Mouse, who gave it to Mickey to keep him company whenever he traveled. Mickey named it “Duffy” because Minnie gave him the bear in a duffel bag.

As for Duffy in Walt Disney World, Disney acknowledges that the bear needs more of an introduction. “I guess you are wondering, ‘who in the world is Duffy?’” Liz Boice, Disney’s senior vice president of merchandise development, told fans gathered for an introductory ceremony in Epcot last month.

So far the company has created a Facebook page and is currently producing a two-and-a-half minute Duffy cartoon that will be lapsed on a TV channel carried in all of Disney World’s 25,000 hotel rooms and time-share suites.

Get ready to see a lot more of Duffy as the adorable bear slowly creeps into Disney parks and resorts. And when you do spot one make sure you buy it! He really is cute and it’s a great way to help Disney revenue!

Orlando Theme Parks Hire For the Season

2010-11-15T13:32:06-05:00

It’s that time of year again when Orlando theme parks bulk up for the expected holiday influx. And this year, with more than 80,000 workers between Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando, thousands more will be added for the busier holiday months.

Disney says it plans to hire “hundreds” of seasonal workers this holiday season. SeaWorld says it will add about 400. But the biggest increase will be at Universal Studios, where attendance has been soaring since the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter that opened in June in Islands of Adventure. Universal says it plans to hire an extra 1,000 workers this season—the most the resort has added in years.

The reason for the mass hiring around this time of year is to ensure excellent customer service while keeping annual labor costs low in a business where attendance ebbs and flows throughout the year.

“You’ve got these peaks of attendance, and when you go into extra hours for the 10 days of Christmas, there’s just no way you can fill that with your current staff. And you can’t add permanent staff to fill that,” said Duncan Dickson, a professor in the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management and a former director of casting at Disney World. ‘Having a seasonal strategy is incredibly important because it can save you just mountains of overtime.”

And if you’re wondering where Disney, Universal and SeaWorld turn to for their seasonal employees you don’t have to look any further than colleges, high schools and retirement communities. Students often make excellent part-time employees as they are on break during this time of year and may be interested in the part-time work. But usually “snowbirds” who have temporarily fled the colder winters up North are the first to fill these positions.

The extra jobs available are usually in standard categories such as ride operations, quick-service restaurants and merchandise. Some jobs are a little more quirky like being a balloon handler for Macy’s Holiday Parade in Universal Studios.

All three parks have already started hiring and SeaWorld even plans to have half of the 400 it’s expected to hire on board by the middle of the month with the other half hired by the end of the month.

So if you’re a college student, snowbird, or somebody just looking for some part-time work over the holidays you might want to get in contact with Orlando’s theme parks. With thousands of jobs available there’s a great chance you can spend the holidays at one of your favorite theme parks! And as previously reported each theme park’s holiday extravaganza promises to be filled with holiday cheer!

Busch Gardens Welcomes Back Serengeti Night Safari

2010-11-17T09:30:46-05:00

Busch Gardens Tampa bay is proud to welcome back the Serengeti Night Safari for just seven select nights this year. During this adventure guests will get to travel through “Edge of Africa” to explore the excited nighttime behaviors of many wild creatures, both predators and prey. But beware, this is a separate ticket from admission to Busch Gardens and if you choose to partake it will roughly cost you $60.

Along this African Safari guests will not only spot animals up-close by the dim light of the moon and lanterns but will also experience a much more active environment than they would during the day. For example, during this night tour lions, who normally sleep during the day, can be seen roaming the safari, hunting for food. Hippos emerge from the water. Hyenas jump and climb. But just because these animals seem to be more active doesn’t mean you need to be scared they’ll come for you! Predatory animals are kept at a safe distance inside glass-enclosed pens.

The Serengeti Night Safari begins and ends in the Safari Club, where guests will meet their super quirky tour guides. This special night tour is for guests 21 and older. Tickets to the tour include appetizers and adult beverages before the excursion along with a night cap complete with coffee, desserts and specialty drinks after.

During this adventure, guests will be able to stop off at a camp site, where even more drinks are available, along with seats to enjoy some down time from your walking tour.

Although it may sound like there’s an awful lot of eating and drinking going on, rest assured, you’ll also see plenty of animals. The tour starts off with an easy, slow-paced walk along Busch Gardens nature trails where you’ll encounter the predators of the night. Then it’s time to board an open-air standing-room-only truck to head to the savannah where you’ll get a better glimpse at what the predators are hunting!

During the truck portion of the tour, guests are given night-vision equipped monoculars to better see the night creatures. But they aren’t always needed as the guides are constantly pointing out wildlife using a red-hued spotlight.

So if you plan on visiting Busch Gardens any time soon, we suggest spending the day riding the roller coasters and enjoying the safaris and then at night taking the Serengeti Night Tour to experience what you may have missed during the day! But remember the Serengeti Night Tour is an extra $60 on top of regular admission. If you ask any of us here at OrlandoFunTickets.com we think it’s the perfect end to a perfect day at one of Orlando’s most popular theme parks!

Disney Announces New Show at Hollywood Studios

2010-11-19T10:51:48-05:00

There’s a lot going on at Disney World these days, especially Hollywood Studios. With the upcoming holiday season in full swing and the Osborne Family Christmas Lights illuminating the park, Hollywood Studios is one of the busier parks this time of year. But that doesn’t mean Disney hasn’t already made plans for the park after the holiday season ends. In fact, it was just announced that a new stage show will be coming to Hollywood Studios early next year!

“Disney Junior—Live on Stage!” will replace “Playhouse Disney—Live on Stage!” starting in March.

According to several theme park news websites, “Playhouse Disney” will close in the end of January.

The new show will include Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny, Little Einsteins segment as well as portions from a new television series called “Jake and the Never Land Pirates.”

“Disney Junior—Live on Stage” will put the company’s new Disney Junior brand front and center in its theme parks and is also expected to debut at Disney’s California Adventure theme park.

The Disney Junior brand will officially launch in February with a new website, mobile platform and segments on the Disney Channel. There will be several new shows that go along with the theme, including “Jake,” and an updated version of the classic “Babar” franchise.

This isn’t the first time in the past few months that Disney has added new shows to the park. If you remember, earlier this month Disney re-opened One Man’s Dream, an attraction dedicated to Walt Disney.

But just as soon as they’re adding new rides, they’re taking some away, as well. As of January 1, the Block Party Bash Parade will end. A replacement will open on January 16.

Star Tours also closed in September but an updated 3-D ride, dubbed The Adventure Continues, is expected to open sometime in 2011. According to Disney the new attraction will include virtual visits to Coruscant and a pod race on Tatooine and will be set in between Episodes III and IV of the film series.

For more recent events at Hollywood Studios, make sure you check out the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights that will be glowing from the park now through January 3, 2011! The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is included with standard admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park so make sure you take advantage of the beautiful twinkling lights all month long! And you never know you might even see snow during the light extravaganza! How’s that for a magical holiday in Florida?

If you can’t make it to Disney for the holidays, we’ll see you back here in March for the opening of “Disney Junior—Live on Stage!”

Big Changes Announced at Disneys Pleasure Island

2010-11-22T16:59:46-05:00

Last Thursday Walt Disney World unveiled some big plans for major changes to one of its most popular attractions. Officials at Disney said Pleasure Island will be gutted over the next three years, and the work will begin in a matter of days.

Pleasure Island opened in 1989 and has consistently been one of the more popular attractions in Central Florida. And now we imagine the attraction will be even more popular as is gets a complete makeover!

The six-acre chunk of land sits between Downtown Disney and Disney’s West Side and will be completely overhauled from top to bottom. But perhaps the most interesting news is that the famous name we’ve all come to know and love will change from Pleasure Island to Hyperion Wharf.

The name Hyperion has a double meaning for Disney as it is not only named for the Greek god of light, but is also the name of the street on which Walt Disney built his first animation studio.

“We’re going to be embedding some really great references to the animation that came out of that studio and the back story of our company and use those in ways that add depth we know our guests enjoy finding in our venues and experiences,” Disney show designer Alex Wright said.

Those experiences will include more shopping and eating space and recent additions at Disney’s West Side. That includes RideMakerz, a store where guests can design and build their own remote-controlled car and a soon to be opened concession stand at the AMC Theatres where moviegoers can make their own snacks and drinks.

The new “Hyperion Wharf” will also include more restaurants, which will add to the already new additions of Pollo Campero, Paradiso 37 and Curl. And if you’re looking for a good nightclub to dance the night away in, you may have to go outside of Hyperion Wharf to find one. Both Soundstage Club and Adventurers Club will disappear to make way for new retail and live musical entertainment.

The addition of restaurants and retail shops as well as the overall project is expected to create a tremendous boom, creating 1,200 total jobs, including 600 in construction.

“We also feel there are at least 600 more jobs from the restaurant perspective, the shops, managers, and all of the employees needed to run those facilities,” Downtown Disney Vice President Kevin Bradford said.

Guests can expect to visit Hyperion Wharf by 2013 but in the meantime you can always experience the magic of Disney at any one of its 4 parks like Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios or Epcot. And don’t forget all of the holiday festivities like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas and the Osborne Lights to make your holidays that much more festive!

Experience Holiday Events at Orlandos Most Popular Theme Parks

2010-11-29T17:36:29-05:00

With Thanksgiving just a day away, OrlandoFunTickets.com can’t help but discuss all of the Orlando theme park holiday events that will soon be flooding parks. And if you’ve ever been to Orlando during this seasonal rush you know how the theme parks pull out all of the stops to make the holiday season truly memorable. In an effort to ensure you get the most for your holiday buck, here is a list of our top Christmas Events in Orlando for 2010:

Disney World’s Hollywood Studios: We’ve mentioned before how fantastic The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and because they are so fantastic they’ve made it onto our 2010 list! Watch in amazement as over 5 million dazzling lights sparkle to synchronized holiday music. This display is nightly from now until January 3, 2011.

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom: Even the animals are getting into the spirit this season as Animal Kingdom welcomes Mickey’s Jungle Jungle Parade. Featuring your favorite Disney characters and their safari friends in a music-filled holiday celebration, the Mickey’s Jungle Jungle parade is a fun-filled party the whole family will enjoy! The parade runs through January 3, 2011.

Epcot: Enjoy Christmas around the world at Epcot’s Holidays Around the World Showcase, where a storyteller from each country shares their holiday traditions. There’s also a candelight Processional as a celebrity narrator, along with a mass choir and 50-piece orchestra, tells the story of Christmas. Both events run November 26-December 30.

Magic Kingdom: See Cinderella’s Castle in a whole new light as the famous monument is draped with over 200,000 twinkling lights. For even more holiday fun you don’t want to miss Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. The magical park closes early on select nights for this holiday party like no other. Complimentary hot chocolate and sugar cookies are served while guests watch Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade as it marches down Main Street. Costumed characters and holiday fireworks light up the sky for an even greater holiday event. Keep in mind, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separate ticket event.

Universal Studios Orlando: If you miss the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade this year don’t fret, Universal Studios recreates the parade every year with authentic balloons and floats from NYC. Each night at dusk the parade rolls out with street performers, marching bands and live entertainment. The parade concludes with Santa Claus and the lightening of the Christmas tree around the new holiday village.

Islands of Adventure: Are you a bit of a Grinch this time of year? Then you might enjoy Grinchmas at Seuss Landing where you’ll see a live version of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. After the performance you can get your picture taken with the mean, green Grinch himself. This event runs December 4-January 1.

Walt Disney World Honors Chilean Heroes and their Families

2011-02-02T15:42:19-05:00

Magical new memories were embraced on Monday as the rescued Chilean miners paraded down Main Street, U.S.A at Walt Disney World Resort. The parade was honoring the miners, their rescuers and their families.

Since last Thursday, the miners and their rescuers and families joined in a festive gathering in their honor at Walt Disney World Resort.

The group of nearly 160 Chileans arrived last week in grand style to Orlando International Airport where they received a ceremonial ‘water salute’ by local firefighting vehicles; a dramatic arch of water rising over the tamarack as the airplane passed underneath.

Then it was off to Disney were they were greeted with a welcome party Friday hosted by Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton and local dignitaries at The American Adventure pavilion in Epcot. The miners enjoyed a long weekend filled with attractions, shopping, character hugs and VIP entertainment in all four theme parks.

The group served as Grand Marshals of the Main Street, U.S. A. parade on Monday in Magic Kingdom. The miners and rescuers were greeted by cheers of guests waving Chilean flags in their honor, Disney characters and entertainers and the ‘Mayor’ of Main Street proclaiming their special day. Their day was capped by daytime pyrotechnics and streamers in a rainbow of colors of the Chilean flag all to the famous Disney song, ‘When You Wish Upon a Star.” Later that evening the miners, rescuers and families watched Cinderella’s castle transform during the nighttime spectacular, ‘The Magic, The Memories, and You!”, a projection spectacular starring images of guests shot earlier in the park.

“These courageous men captivated the world with their story of hope and perseverance,” said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger. “Great stories are at the heart of all we do at The Walt Disney Company and we are pleased that the next chapter in this inspirational story is taking place at Walt Disney World Resort.”

Also on Monday the Chilean Miners shared their lessons of hope, courage and pride with about 40 children from the Boys & Girls Clubs.

In an interview during their stay Omar Reygada said, “We are not the heroes. Our families and all the people around the world who prayed, wished us well and helped us through our ordeal—those are the real heroes.”

The group spent 6 magical days at Disney exploring the four parks, having the time of their lives and being honored for their heroism. They returned today but not before taking a group photo in front of Cinderella Castle that they will no doubt add to their personal photo albums of the visit.

SeaWorld Busch Gardens Welcome New Attractions

2011-02-03T11:12:52-05:00

As Universal Studios Orlando continues to benefit from their newest attraction, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, that opened last summer, the rest of Orlando theme parks have been struggling to keep up…until now! Both SeaWorld and Busch Gardens are about to rock the theme park scene with some exciting new rides and attractions you won’t want to miss!

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment announced early Thursday morning the opening of 10 new attractions at its parks this year, including a new killer whale show at SeaWorld, a cheetah-themed roller coaster at Busch Gardens and a swim-through artificial reef at Discovery Cove.

Everybody knows SeaWorld is famous for their killer whales. And if you visit the aquatic park just to be able to see those killer whales, you’ll love the newest addition to the park that takes you on an intimate journey with the ocean’s beasts. It’s called One Ocean and its taking a more educational approach with a focus on teaching the public about ocras. This exciting new show will be offered at SeaWorld at the end of April and will also open at SeaWorld San Diego in May and SeaWorld San Antonio in June.

“These types of attractions can connect people to animals, nature and the environment, and can provide the inspiration to want to care about the world,” said Julie Scardina, SeaWorld’s top animal trainer.

Over at Discovery Cove guests will be able to enjoy hammocks and sandy beaches at the Grand Reef, which is set to open in June. Visitors will be able to swim and snorkel amid marine life similar to what you might find in a reel coral reef.

There was much talk this past summer about a rumored roller coaster that was expected to pop up in Busch Gardens this spring. And now it seems the rumor has become a reality as Busch Gardens announced Thursday morning its debut of Cheetah Hunt, a roller coaster with 4,429 feet of track and three zero-to-60 mph launches in one ride. Cheetah’s seem to be Busch Garden’s theme this year as a new viewing area, Cheetah Run, will offer an up-close look at real cheetahs, including a chance to see them run in a daily workout session.

Lastly, SeaWorld will restart its popular “Dine with Shamu” killer whale show later this spring. The performance includes a buffet meal for guests while trainers work nearby with one of the park’s ocras.

Orlando theme parks are certainly upping the ante this year with incredible new rides and attractions and if you’re looking for a way to see what’s new at the parks OrlandoFunTickets.com is the perfect place to start!

Enjoy the Romance on Valentines Day at Walt Disney World

2011-02-07T17:07:54-05:00

Besides being the most magical place to bring children, Walt Disney World Resort offers quite the romantic setting. From moonlit strolls to luxurious spas and decadent dining this Orlando theme park has plenty of enchanting ways to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Home to some of the world’s most famous romances like Cinderella and Prince Charming, Lady and the Tramp, Beauty and the Beast and of course Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Walt Disney World is more than the Vacation Kingdom, it’s where romance blossoms.

Throughout the 40-square-mile playground couples can indulge in a spa retreat, romantic dinner cruise, carriage ride and even their honeymoon! In fact, Walt Disney World has been rated a top honeymoon destination, according to industry experts.

The four Walt Disney World theme parks are a perfect place for a spontaneous romance—from a stroll through the lush Maharajah Jungle Trek at Animal Kingdom to a stop for ice cream at one of Disney’s many cafes in Epcot. But beyond the parks, there are plenty of romantic experiences that will sweep your honey off her feet:

The Couple that ‘Spas’ and ‘Flies’ Together—What’s more enjoyable than a luxurious spa treatment on Valetnine’s Day? How about spending it with your loved one at The Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This romantic spa features a “couples room” where guests can enjoy specialized spa treatments like massages and facials, with the one they love.

The Love Boat—Take your sweetheart on a cruise this Valentine’s Day on the Grand Floridian’s Grand 1-an elegant 52-foot yacht. The Love Boat will take up to 18 guests along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake where you’ll experience stunning views of “Wishes’ fireworks showering over Magic Kingdom.

Nature Lovers—If you and your special someone share the love of nature you might enjoy a horseback ride through one of the backwoods trails at Walt Disney World. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground offers wrangler-led tours (45-minutes) through the deep, pine-scented woods that make up part of the Vacation Kingdom’s 40 square miles.

Romantic Evening-For the ultimate in romance try one of Walt Disney’s horse-drawn carriage rides through the wilderness of the resort. The antique carriages depart from Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground and traverse throughout the scenic landscape of the 750-acre rustic resort. Or you can choose a relaxing old-fashioned carriage ride through Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside.

If you’re planning on spending your Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World Resort make sure you take one of these romantic options into consideration. And to make your romantic getaway even better, look for specials savings on Walt Disney tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Packers Great Aaron Rodgers Visits Walt Disney World

2011-02-09T10:03:00-05:00

It has been quite a week so far for Green Bay Packers hero Aaron Rodgers. First his MVP performance propelled the Green Bay Packers to victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday night during Super Bowl XLV. Then on Monday the Super Bowl hero was welcomed with a wave of adulation and cheers as he visited Walt Disney World.

The Packers quarterback found himself riding down Main Street U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom in a red convertible waving and smiling back at cheering fans that lined the street. The parade marked the continuation of a grand tradition that began in 1987 when New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms proclaimed “I’m going to Disney World” in a television commercial spot after winning Super Bowl XXI.

And Rodgers shouted the exact words that Simms did 24 years ago in a commercial that aired Monday morning, “I’m going to Disney World!” Joined by Disney World’s most famous character, Mickey Mouse, the Packers star was immersed in applause, much of it coming form theme park guests who were decked out in green and gold for the QB. And just as he shouted out that magical phrase, Rodgers was showered with confetti for the second time in 24 hours!

During the procession the Magic Kingdom Philharmonic band provided a musical backdrop that included Minnie Mouse decked out as a cheerleader, Chip ‘n’ Dale in referee garb and “football Goofy” plus players from a central Florida NFL Youth Football team.

It was certainly the parade to see but if you missed it don’t worry, you can still watch one of Magic Kingdom’s many parades like the Main Street Electrical Parade or the “Celebrate a Dream Come True” parade. Both parades wind around Main Street U.S.A. and offer a fun and dazzling way to experience all that Disney has to offer.

The Main Street Electrical Parade offers enhanced lighting technology like LED and special effects that light up Main Street U.S.A. Tinker Bell leads this special parade, lighting the way with a wave of her wand. She’s generously spread pixie dust over all of the other floats, creating a colorful shimmering fairy light!

The “Celebrate A Dream Come True” parade is just as exciting as the Main Street Electrical parade offering even more music and more Disney characters. This wonderful parade captures many classic Disney moments that pay tribute to the stories and memories that have touched so many lives. You may see Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Aladdin, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and more during this wonderful parade!

If you want to experience one of Disney World’s fabulous parades like the one Aaron Rodgers rode in or less just look for Walt Disney World tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Walt Disney World Sees Leap in Profits

2011-02-10T10:47:06-05:00

In the final three months of 2010 Orlando theme park Walt Disney World saw a 54 percent quarterly profit growth.

Disney said it made $1.3 billion for the three months that ended January 1, the first quarter in the company’s fiscal year. That number was up from $844 million a year earlier. Companywide revenue rose 10 percent to $10.7 billion.

“It’s a great start to a new fiscal year,” Disney CO, President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger said.

This was the strongest performance Disney has seen since being dragged down by the recession three years ago. The unit posted a 25 percent increase in operating profit—to $468 million—on sales growth of 8 percent—to $2.9 billion.

Disney stated that the improvement was driven primarily by gains in guest spending, as the theme park continued to pull back the discounts it had used to sustain the business during the recession, and guests bought more souvenirs and food.

Guest spending wasn’t the only thing that has improved in recent months. Attendance has also perked up, by 2 percent, between the two coasts. Disney also said Disney World attendance was up “more than 2 percent” during the quarter while Disneyland was “slightly down” from last year. The increase might be from the huge crowds being drawn to Orlando by Universal Orlando’s popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios.

“They built a great property down there,” Iger said during a conference call with analysts. “And I believe when a competitor puts a good property in the marketplace, it brings more people to the market. So, I think it stimulates attendance to Orlando and we all know that’s good for us. Because we usually get a good piece of all visitation to Orlando.”

Disney has also seen financial gains with their many hotels. Room reservations at its U.S. hotels are currently running 3 percent ahead of the pace set last year at this time. But Iger is still hesitant believing consumers still haven’t reverted to their pre-recession habits. He noted that travelers have not yet begun booking their trips further ahead of their travel dates.

“You still have an environment that, while less challenging certainly than it was a year ago, still has its challenges,” Iger said though he added that Disney’s parks business is better positioned than in previous downturns for a recovery because it now has more cheaply priced, or “value” category hotel rooms.

“We’re more accessible and we’re more accessibly priced than we were,” Iger said.

If you wan to see for yourself how Disney World is more access

Theres an App for That

2011-02-22T14:11:50-05:00

If you’re planning on spending Spring in one of Orlando’s many theme parks you might want to get ahead on wait times for rides and restaurants, maps and tips with one of the many theme park smartphone apps.

A couple of years ago software developers started tapping into smartphone users’ zeal for theme parks and now dozens of applications are now available for iPhones, Androids and other handheld devices.

Most of the apps available now are geared towards Walt Disney World, including Disney’s own app for Verizon phones, but there are plenty that are available for other theme parks. Now a free iPhone app called Universal Wait Times can provide accurate wait times for rides inside Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure. During its testing period the app proved to be especially helpful during a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure, where wait times tend to be much longer than any other area in Universal Studios.

For those of you who love a good map most of these apps are of park maps, some of which wok with the phone’s GPS function to show your exact location and what’s nearby. There are also apps for park times and to help guests choose a restaurant by cuisine and price while others can help you decide on where to stay as they research and compare resort hotels, help plan the trip, count down the days, find the right shuttle bus routes and entertain the kids when you arrive.

Disney’s “know-it-all” app exclusively for Verizon called “Disney Mobile Magic” uses the GPS feature in Verizon phones to help users find character appearances, attractions, restaurants and more. The app also checks wait and Fast Pass return times, provides shopping and restaurant information and even has an interactive trivia game that allows users to play against other users in the park.

People that have already used these theme park apps think they’re a great tool for visitors and will only enhance the theme park experience.

“As more people adopt smartphones and get used to using apps—as we all know, they’re exploding right now—it may be a good way for parks to deliver information, such as changes in schedule or rides being closed unexpectedly, to guests in the park that day,” said Leigh Caldwell, who writes the popular Theme Park Mom blog.

Most of these theme park apps start at .99 but there are some that are free like Universal Wait Times, which provides accurate wait times for rides inside the two Universal Orlando parks. If you’re interested in using one of these apps but aren’t sure which theme park to go to you can always find excellent deals right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

HGTV To Attend the 18th Epcot International Flower Garden Festival

2011-02-24T16:43:33-05:00

HGTV is heading to Walt Disney World for the 18th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival March 2 through May 15. A constellation of HGTV design stars will be appearing for the first time at the festival during weekend presentations that cover topics ranging from “Life, Love and Landscaping” to “Curb Appeal Projects from Concept to Construction”

This year Genevieve Gorder, Vern Yip and nine other HGTV stars are in for a treat as “Toy Story 3” heroes Woody and Buzz are incorporated into the topiary festivities!

Disney’s topiary craftsmen light up the Future World front-entrance garden where the lead toys of Disney’s Oscar-nominated film “Toy Story 3” meet arch-enemy Lotso in a larger-than-life floral spectacle. The popular Disney-Pixar characters will be turned into seven and eight-foot tall topiaries surrounded by a sand castle, strawberry-scented field and playground toys featured in the film. This will mark the first time that “Toy Story” characters will be featured at the festival. It is also the first time in seven years that the front entrance floral display showcases all-new topiary characters.

“It created unique challenges,” said festival horticulture manager Eric Darden, “and it’s meticulous work. Woody is skinny, and it was a challenge to create his legs. The detail on Buzz is pretty daunting.” And rumor has it on the pink-floral Lotso is that he will smell like strawberries, just like his big-screen character!

This year’s festival will showcase more than 100 expertly crafted topiaries, as well as a brand-new “Cars 2” display at World Showcase Plaza. Darden says that large floral topiaries of “Cars 2” characters Mater and Lightning McQueen will park their colorful chassis beneath a black-and-white checkered arch. Floral flags representing Japan, France, Italy and the United Kingdom, which are destinations of the car characters in the sequel due in theaters June 24, will complete the floral scene.

Other popular Disney characters like Winnie the Pooh, Tigger and friends will appear in flowers among a Hundred Acre Wood wildflower display between Future World and World Showcase.

Guests to the 18th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival will be able to see and talk to HGTV and HGTV.com celebrities on weekends and other experts seven days a week. The Festival Center, located next to Mission” Space in Future World, will present workshops and talks by a lineup of master gardeners, Walt Disney World horticulturists and a mix of TV and radio personalities, authors and educators.

The 18th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is sure to be the best one yet as “Toy Story 3” and other Disney characters create topiary magic! For tickets to Epcot and other Disney parks OrlanduFunTickets.com is the perfect place to find them!

Mickey Mouse Meet Greet Beginning in the Spring

2011-02-26T16:17:15-05:00

Rumor has it Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom will be revealing a new “attraction” this spring. It’s not a ride, a snack or a show but instead it’s a first-ever opportunity to set up a time to meet with Disney’s favorite character—Mickey Mouse!

Meet-and-Greets with Mickey are set to move into a permanent new location in Town Square later this spring. And when they do guests will be able to obtain a Disney’s FASTPASS ticket specifying a one-hour window when they can return to see Mickey for hugs, photos and autographs. This will be the first time the complimentary, computerized service has been available for a character meet-and-greet.

It’s no surprise hanging out with a favorite Disney character is at the top of most Disney guests list, and because of this Disney has created the FASTPASS ticket which allows them to spend time with Mickey Mouse in a more convenient way. As a result, guests won’t have to spend their day waiting in line or scouring the park just to find their beloved Disney character, instead they can enjoy the rest of what Magic Kingdom has to offer!

Mickey’s Meet-and-Greet’s new location, Town Square Theater, will be located inside the current Exposition Hall area just inside the park entrance. Disney engineers are already re-doing the space to make it more appropriate for Mickey and his guests. “This isn’t just remodeling Expo Hall; it is completely re-imagining this entire venue as a beautiful Victorian-era theater and the new home for Mickey Mouse,” said Jon Georges, WDI Director, Senior Show Producer.

“Mickey and Main Street, U.S.A. are great examples of pure Americana that compliment each other very well,” said Concept Designer Jason Grandt. “We drew a lot of inspiration from classic Mickey animated shorts such as The Nifty Nineties and Mickey’s Grand Opera. Many of the scenes in these shorts look like they take place right here on Main Street.”

Mickey’s new home will include a marquee that is covered in gold with gold-leaf trim and sparklers with lights. Inside the new space is a mosaic floor curtains with gold rope tie-backs and polished-brass chandeliers. There will also be some surprises for Disney guests including an interactive que and themed retail shops.

The surprise que will take guests “backstage” where Mickey will be waiting to greet them. The space will be a rehearsal-room environment with posters, steamer trunks and stage props set up to complete the “backstage” look.

Let’s hope that as Mickey Mouse’s Meet-and-Greet grows that other Disney characters will be able to join him and meet their fans as well! Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see all of your favorite Disney characters in one spot at one time?

Florida Resident Wins Disneys Princess Half Marathon

2011-03-03T09:38:10-05:00

This past weekend Walt Disney World hosted their annual Princess Half-Marathon in Epcot and record numbers showed up for the race and other endurance events throughout the weekend.

The Disney endurance weekend of events were designed to celebrate and promote women’s empowerment, health and an active lifestyle. It’s largely regarded as one of the nation’s largest endurance race weekends geared towards women.

Jennifer Hanley-Pinto of Jacksonville took first place to win the Disney’s 2011 Princess Half-Marathon with Caitlin Latimer of Lexington, KY taking second place with a time of 1:23:14. Heather Schulz of Orlando was third (1:25:01) despite running a faster time than last year when she was second.

But no matter how fast Latimer or Schulz ran, they simply could not beat Hanley-Pinto.

Beating out more than 17,000 runners in the event, Hanley-Pinto completed an impressive feat many runners strive for every year. In all, more than 22,000 runners participated in endurance events throughout the weekend at Disney, including a health and fitness expo, a 5K and several kid races.

The Princess Half-Marathon Weekend was just the second of runDisney’s four signature events. The remaining two are the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, September 2-4, 2011 and the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend September 30-October 1, 2011.

In other Walt Disney World news Hollywood Studios is about ot get a new stage show featuring some of the Disney Channel’s biggest characters.

Jake and the Never Land Pirates are landing at Hollywood Studios March 4 and will be playing a role in “Disney Junior—Live on Stage!”, a theme park show created for young guests. Guests to the show will not only be able to see Jake and his legion of pirates but they’ll also be able to hang with cast members of the Mickey Mouse Club, Handy Manny and Little Einsteins, which are other shows that are a part of the Disney Junior Schedule.

“Ever since ‘Playhouse Disney—Live on Stage!’ premiered in 2001, it has been a chance for our younger guests to experience their Disney Channel friends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios,” said Dan Fields of Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative director for “Disney Junior---Live on Stage!” “As their circle of TV friends has grown and changed during the years, we’ve endeavored to make sure those new friends are part of their vacation fun, too.”

“Disney Junior—Live on Stage” will be presented several times during the theme park day.

Congratulations to Jennifer Hanley-Pinto on winning the 2011 Disney Princess Half-Marathon! And we can’t wait for Jake and the Never Land Pirates to land in Hollywood Studios on the 4th!

Busch Gardens Cheetah Hunter to Open in the Spring

2011-03-05T16:56:02-05:00

As Busch Gardens’ newest roller coaster peaks above the top of the barricades, which has been keeping it from public view for months now, the Tampa Bay theme park announced last month that Cheetah Hunt will open May 27.

Just two and a half months away from opening the roller coaster 90 percent of the track is up and 12 of the park’s 14 young cheetahs are being acclimated to their new environment.

Cheetah Hunt’s animal territory will offer guests a unique opportunity to view Busch Gardens’ first collection of rare animals. The area is being outfitted with sculpted concrete to look like weathered ancient ruins at the meeting point of the park’s Egypt, Morocco and Edge of Africa sections. Guests can watch the animals run on a 250-foot straightaway through windows for close up viewing.

The new coaster will be Busch Gardens’ first powered by something other than a lift-chain and gravity. Heavy-duty magnets will pull the trains up a pair of initial lift hills, the first from zero to 38 miles per hour in two seconds followed by a second burst that hits 60 miles per hour in two more seconds. The trains will go uphill as fast as they go downhill.

“I am not telling you what the electric bill will be,” said Mark Rose, Busch Gardens’ chief planning engineer. “But we’ve filled the entire length of the ride with surprises including an accelerating surge at the finish.”

The new technology isn’t the only thing about Cheetah Hunt that’s setting it apart from other thrill rides. The 16-seat trains are shorter making for tighter twists and turns. Busch Gardens also spruced up the typical roller coaster look by making the huge yellow supports look like pickup sticks fastened with colorful banners.

All-in-all the idea of the 4,400-foot-long track is supposed to simulate the wild’s fastest creature pounding after his prey along the Serengeti.

Enough about how the coaster works and what it looks like. Let’s talk about what the ride will be like! The coaster dives down 120 feet into a 20-foot trench skimming the park’s grazing animals, then barrels over a series of short hills through a river canyon offering steeped twists, weightless crests, an inversion and a 360-degree helix. The coaster is also interwoven over and under the park’ steam train, Skyride and pedestrian pathways.

Interested in Busch Gardens’ newest thrill? We can help! Just search “Busch Gardens Tickets” and get incredible savings on adult and children tickets like $72.95 plus the second day free! Now you can enjoy Cheetah Hunt twice as much at a price you can afford.

Daily News Surprises Class With Trip to Universal Studios

2011-03-19T12:10:14-04:00

An all-girl class of Bronx sixth-graders were surprised with an upcoming trip to Universal Studios courtesy of the Daily News on Monday. The class at the Urban Institute of Mathematics in Throgs Neck found out first thing Monday morning that they’d won The News’ contest for a summer visit to the Orlando theme park.

When News marketing executive Ricardo Flattes made the surprise announcement in one of their teacher’s classrooms the girls shrieked in surprise.

“I was almost crying—it was so exhilarating,” said Aneesah Ayub, 12. “I’ve never been to Florida.”

The all-girl class of 20 will enjoy three days at Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure—where the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction is located. Each student will get to bring a parent or guardian.

“We want to give these kids a great educational experience and a great vacation,” Flattes said.

In addition to admission into both theme parks, the girls will also get backstage access to Universal’s soundstage and production facilities and learn about the art of movie making and theme-park ride design.

“I think it’s going to be an awesome experience,” said Asia Lyn, 11.

“This will be my first time on a place—I’m nervous,” said Kayla Villegas, 11.

The girls got the free trip to Universal by winning an in-schol competition.

“When we were behind, the girls never got discouraged,” Cataldo, 27 said.

The contest had the girls bringing in newspaper bar codes during a four-week period. The girls brought in more bar codes that any other classes did, which entitled them to use the entire school’s collection of 4,160 bar codes as their entry in The News’ contest.

Lexus Guzman, 13, who used to live in Orlando, is looking forward to showing her best friend and classmate Karen Valdes, 12, around Universal.

“We’re going to ride every ride till it’s night,” Karen said.

There’s no word yet on when the girls will be visiting the theme park but when they do we’re sure they’ll have the time of their life.

If you want to experience all of the excitement and fun of Universal Studios just like the girls from the Bronx will OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Universal Base Tickets for just $81.00 and $73 for children. If you’d like to spend the weekend and visit both Universal and Islands of Adventure you might want to purchase the 2-Day Base Ticket for just $115.40. And if you get to the theme park before April 13 make sure you check out all of the Mardi Gras celebrations throughout Universal Studios!

Big Time Rush To Perform at Universal Studios

2011-04-04T12:56:38-04:00

Universal Studios guests are in for a BIG time treat May 14 as Nickelodeon stars Big Time Rush perform live at Universal Studios Florida’s Music Plaza stage.

Big Time Rush is one of the hottest names in entertainment. The group got its start on Nickelodeon’s hit series of the same name and is based on four best friends who move to Los Angeles for a chance at music superstardom. Currently in its second season “Big Rush” had the highest-rated and most-watched live-action series premiere with kids, tweens and total viewers in the history of the network!

In addition to performing at Universal Studios, Big Time Rush will be performing at the “Nickelodeon 2011 Kids’ Choice Awards,” where they are nominated for Favorite Music Group and Favorite TV Show.

Aside from watching the popular Nickelodeon band fans at Universal Studios will also have the opportunity to watch a never-before-seen episode of “Big Time Rush.” In the episode, “Big Time Prom,” everyone at the Palm Woods is preparing for the night, especially Kendall, James, Carlos and Logan who are determined to win the title of Prom King. Guests can catch the episode at various times throughout the day at the Animal Actors on Location. Guests can enjoy Big Time Rush’s performance, the never-before-seen episode of “Big Time Prom” and all of the thrills and excitement of Universal’s rides and attractions for the price of regular admission to the Orlando theme park. And right now OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Universal Studios base tickets for just $81.00 for adults and $73.00 for children! This ticket gives guests access to one Universal theme park for one-day. It’s the perfect ticket to see Big Time Rush perform live on May 14!

If you’d like to see Big Time Rush and check out the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure one of Universal’s two-day base tickets might be a better choice. The Adult 2-Day Base Ticket is just $115.40 and the Child 2-Day Base Ticket is only $107.88. For more ways to explore Universal Studios just click on “Universal Studios tickets” on the OrlandoFunTickets home page.

Stay tuned for more Universal concerts as summer approaches. And remember OrlandoFunTickets.com is a great source for all of your Orlando theme park needs!

Disneys Hollywood Studios Announces Changes

2011-04-06T15:09:38-04:00

There are several exciting announcements coming from Walt Disney World this month, most of them changes to Hollywood Studios. The Orlando theme park is focusing on giving their guests new opportunities and new experiences and here are a few of the new changes coming to Hollywood Studios.

- Lightning McQueen will be leaving his meet and greet location at Hollywood Studios Friday, April 8, to undergo a makeover for his new movie Cars 2, which premieres June 24

- Lightning McQueen will be returning to Hollywood Studios with both a meet and greet opportunity and an added appearance in the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show beginning in June. Lightning McQueen will be replacing the Herbie the Love Bug scene in the show.

- During Lightning McQueen’s absence, Tow Mater will continue to greet guests at Luigi’s Garage throug h April 17 and will then be making roaming appearances in the park until April 30. Then in June Tow Mater will return with Lightning McQueen in their new meet and greet location.

- Beginning May 16, Winnie the Pooh will be at Hollywood Studios at The Magic of Disney Animation building greeting guests to promote his new movie, “Disney’s Winnie the Pooh”, which premieres July 15.

- To make way for the Winnie the Pooh meet and greet, Lotso (Lots-o-Huggin’ Bear) will greet his last guests on April 30. After April 30 if you still want to see Lotso you can always visit him in the Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun! parade.

- Phineas and Ferb are coming to Hollywood Studios as they greet guests at a location by Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano and the exit to Muppet Vision 3D beginning May 16.

As always you can find discount tickets to Walt Disney World right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com! Just click the “Disney World tickets” tab on the home page and you’ll find tickets like the Magic Your Way Base ticket, the Disney Magic Your Way Park Hopper, and more! And right now you can explore Hollywood Studios and the other three Disney parks for less with the Magic Your Way Park Hopper ticket! Enjoy up to 10 days of park hopper fun for just $303.00 for adults or $281.69 for children. If you only need 2 days to explore the happiest place on Earth than the 2 day Magic Your Way Park Hopper ticket is probably a better option and for $225.00 for adults and $208.00 for children, this ticket is the perfect way to explore Walt Disney World!

As the summer months approach OrlandoFunTickets.com is the only place to go for all of your summer theme park needs!

Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Itineraries and Ports

2011-04-16T12:45:20-04:00

Walt Disney World fans can now enjoy the magic of the infamous park in cities other than Orlando next summer. Guests can spend the summer with Mickey in New York, Seattle and Galveston, Texas aboard the Disney Cruise Line! For the first time ever Disney Cruise Line is setting sail to three new ports beginning in 2012, making the family cruise vacation more accessible to guests around the country. In addition to the three new ports the Disney Cruise Line will offer more choices with several new itineraries planned.

“In 2012, we’re making it easier than ever before for families to enjoy a Disney Cruise Line vacation by offering cruises from a variety of regional homeports,” said Disney Cruise Line President Karl Holz. “Guests can now enjoy a magical, one-of-a-kind Disney cruise experience with the convenience of departures from their own backyard.”

Beginning May, 25 2012, the Disney Magic will sail a ltotal of 20 cruises from New York—including eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and five-night cruises up the New England coasts to Canada plus two-night cruises that offer a sampling of the Disney Cruise Line experience over a weekend.

Also in May, the Disney Wonder will sail a total of 14 seven-night cruises from the Port of Seattle to Tracy arm, Skagaway, Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. This is all a part of the Seattle schedule and it begins May 28, 2012.

Four months later on September 22, 2012, the Disney Magic will sail 12 seven-night cruises from the Port of Galveston to the Western Caribbean. Ports of call include Grand Cayman and Mexico’s Costa Maya and Cozumel.

For the 2012 Los Angeles Schedule the Disney Wonder continues sailing seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises from the Port of Los Angeles for the majority of the year.

Additionally, the Disney Wonder will sail four seven-night Pacific Coast cruises from Los Angeles calling on San Francisco, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico.

For the Port Canaveral Schedule the Disney Fantasy will depart on her maiden voyage March 31, 2012, and will sail out of Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries—alternating eastern (St. Marteen and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel), Special Eastern Caribbean sailings in November and December 2012 stop at St. Thomas and San Juan, Puerto Rico. All Disney Fantasy cruises make a stop at Disney’s private Island, Castaway Cay.

If cruising around the world isn’t your thing and/or you can’t wait until 2012 for your Disney fun you can always enjoy the magic of Disney in its hometown, Orlando. And there’s no better place to find discounted Disney tickets then right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Just click “Disney tickets” on the home page for special savings.

Busch Gardens Presents Glory At the Gardens

2011-04-26T14:28:50-04:00

Next month Tampa Bay’s popular theme park, Busch Gardens will present Glory at the Gardens, a two-day Christian music event.

The two-day event begins on May 7th with performances by the three-time Grammy-winning duo Mary Mary and Lecrae, a hip-hop solo artist.

On May 14 artists will include Michael W. Smith, who has won 44 Dove awards, and Sidewalk Prophets, a group that won the Dove Award for “new artist of the year” in 2010.

The concerts will take place at Gwazi Park, beginning at 5 p.m. on both days. Glory at the Gardens is included in the park’s regular admission price so feel free to stop by Gwazi park at 5 on either day for excellent Christian performances.

While you’re at Busch Gardens don’t forget to check out Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy during its limited engagement. The Broadway hit is an exotic encounter inspired by nature’s unpredictable creations. Cirque Dreams brings nature’s creations to life through visual spectacles of aerialists, contortionists, musicians and amazing costumes unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Then make sure you come back on May 27 for the opening of Busch Gardens’ newest roller coaster Cheetah Hunt and experience a new breed of speed. Cheetah Hunt celebrates the spirit of the cheetah with speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and plenty of incredible twists and turns only Busch Gardens knows how to do! To go along with the new thrill ride is an animal exhibit called Cheetah Run. This exhibit will feature glass-paneled viewing areas allowing guests to watch the world’s fastest land animal sprint across the plains. Five cheetahs are expected to inhabit Cheetah Run. Educational touch screens will complete the exhibit.

And speaking of animal exhibits Busch Gardens’ other new animal attraction offers up-close-and-personal views of the Congo’s lush area. Jungala takes you on an incredible journey through four acres of the Congo where Bengal Tigers roam and orangutans hang from the trees. You’ll interact like you never have before with these incredible animals through rides, live entertainment and incredible encounters.

There are plenty of new rides, animal attractions and shows going on at Busch Gardens this month and if you’d like to take part in any one of them for less we can help! OrlandoFunTickets.com is currently offering Busch Gardens tickets for just $72.95 for adults and $64.50 for children! As the summer months heat up so do the Orlando theme parks so make sure you get your tickets now!

Cars Characters to be Featured at Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend

2011-04-27T16:19:39-04:00

If the movie ‘Cars’ really revs your engine then you have to get to the Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend beginning May 13 and running through May 15 for a special appearance from Radiator Springs.

Four-time Piston Cup Champion Lightning McQueen, Mater and British super-spy, Finn McMissile will speed into the weekend to celebrate the release of Disney Pixar’s “Cars 2.” At this special event at Downtown Disney, families can hang out with Lightning, Mater and Finn McMissile, plus enjoy all sorts of “Cars” activities, including a video kiosk, e-photo opportunities and games.

In addition to meeting some of you favorite “Cars” characters, you’ll also get the chance to “test drive” and purchase new “Cars 2” RIDEMAKERZ models. RIDEMAKERZ allows you to customize and “trick out” your very own car. With RIDEMAKERZ you can mix, match and design your very own “Cars 2” ride!

Aside from the “Cars” characters the Downtown Disney event will give families the chance to “reverse” their love for cars and go back in time to see dozens of classic cars that helped shape the vehicles we drive today.

If you’re only interested in “Cars” the movie you can catch the film at the AMC Pleasure Island 24 Theatres Complex all weekend long!

If the Downtown Disney Car Masters Weekend has you idling for more “Cars” characters you can always head to Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios for the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show. Beginning in June Lightning McQueen will join the high-octane stunt show as a special guest! With help from Mater, Lightning has been sent on a mission to investigate suspicious spy activity. But remember you will only be able to see Lightning McQueen in June. But if you come before you can always enjoy the incredible 33-minute stunt show.

For tickets to Disney’s Hollywood Studios don’t forget to check out OrlandoFunTickets.com for discounted Disney tickets. Right now an Adult 3-Day Magic Your Way Base Ticket is just $222.44 and just $200.66 for a child’s ticket! The 3-Day Pass gives you plenty of time to enjoy Lightning McQueen’s first appearance in for the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show and all of the other excitement Hollywood Studios has to offer.

But if you’d rather spend 3 days exploring all of Disney’s parks a Magic Your Way Park Hopper ticket is a better choice. For only $274.00 for adults and $251.50 for children you can spend 3 days watching Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show in Hollywood Studios, riding Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom, seeing the wild animals of Africa at Animal Kingdom or traveling the world at Epcot! How’s that for a fun-filled Walt Disney World vacation?

Splash Mountain Changes its Splash

2011-04-28T17:49:33-04:00

Is Walt Disney World’s Splash Mountain losing its splash? Well, sort of. Since reopening from its refurbishment earlier this year, Magic Kingdom’s popular ride seems to have tamed down its splash soaking effect and you may just prefer it.

We’ve all been there. You’re riding along on arguably one of the best rides in Magic Kingdom, enjoying the scenery and prepping yourself for that heart pounding, gut in your throat drop when you’re suddenly SPLASHED by an unsuspecting gush of water. So that’s why the seat was all wet when you got in! On a blistering day the splash can be more than welcome. On a day when you finally got your hair just the way you want it, the splash can be aggravating.

For those of you who found the splash more of an annoyance than an excitement, you’re in luck. Splash Mountain now has a new revised water canon splash that originates from the final drop. Previously, a log coming down the main drop would cause a water canon to fire that would dump a large amount of water on a log that was entering the second lift on the left hand-side of the mountain. But now, while still maintaining the firing water effect, the water canon makes it fall just short of the log, preserving the dryness of the riders.

But the bad news, again for those of you who dislike the soak, is that we’re not sure if the change is permanent, or if its just being tested for colder weather operation, which makes sense. That actually might be the ideal solution to satisfy both the soak-lovers and the soak-haters. As we find out more on Splash Mountain’s “splashy” changes we’ll be sure to report back so make sure you check in often.

In the meantime, just in case the splash returns to the soaking kind you might want to get to Magic Kingdom before they change it back, and to decide which way you like it best. You never know, you just might miss the cool off! For special discounted tickets to Magic Kingdom or any of the other Disney parks OrlandoFunTickets.com is the place to shop! Choose from Disney’s Magic Your Way Base Tickets, Disney’s Magic Your Way Park Hopper Tickets and as Central Florida heads into summer don’t forget to take a look at Disney’s Magic Your Way Water Park Fun and More tickets where you can cool off at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon or Disney’s Blizzard Beach! OrlandoFunTickets.com has everything you need to make your Disney trip a magical one!

Universal Studios To Announce New Attractions

2011-05-02T14:37:37-04:00

Universal Orlando is expected to announce its new attraction plans in a webcast on May 19. We’re not 100% sure what the Orlando theme park is up to but you can find hints on Universal’s Facebook page between now and then.

While we don’t know for sure what the change will be, rumors are swirling that the announcement will be that Despicable Me will replace Jimmy Neutron ride at Universal Studios. But a few sources have whispered that Avatar may be coming to the movie theme park, replacing the Terminator 2:3-D show.

Other Universal rides that are expected to pop up in the theme park include the new Transformers ride coming in 2012 and later this year at Universal Studios Singapore.

But perhaps the most exciting Universal rumor is the water park that everyone is talking about. Could it be true? Has Universal filed a trademark application for a “WonderSea Island,” described in the application as the name for a new water park? We sure hope so but only time will tell if that rumor is true.

And speaking of trademark, Universal has also filed a trademark for the word “Shoaster” under “amusement park services.” Could it be a nod to a new “show”/”coaster” that’s coming to the park? We’ll just have to wait and see!

Also on the trademark front, SeaWorld has filed for two trademark applications this month: Iceploration and Verbolten. The first is described as a show name and the second a ride. Does this mean SeaWorld or Busch Gardens is getting a new roller coaster?

Until the new attraction announcement on May 15 you can always enjoy the thrill of Universal Studios Orlando with exclusive deals on tickets at OrlandoFunTickets.com. Right now you can ride the movies for just $81.00 for adults and $73.00 for children with a Universal 1-Day Base Ticket. If you have yet to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Universal Park to Park tickets for prices you won’t believe! When you buy an adult 2-Day Park to Park Ticket for just $134.99 or a child’s 2-Day Park to Park Ticket for only $121.99 you’ll get 2 days free!

And how can we not mention the amazing deals on SeaWorld and Busch Gardens tickets? Adult admission to SeaWorld is just $75.00 and $66.00 for children. Busch Garden adult tickets are now just $72.95 and $64.50 for children!

Make sure you check back often for news on the Universal Studios and SeaWorld trademarks. And don’t forget to come back here for the announcement on Universal’s new attraction news that will be announced later this month.

Orlando Theme Parks Look to Hire 3000

2011-05-03T17:15:15-04:00

Universal Orlando and SeaWorld announced Monday that they’re looking for more employees.

Representatives from Universal said the theme park is in need of full-time, part-time and seasonal workers for the summer months.

The Orlando theme park held a job fair on Thursday, but if you missed it there will be another one on May 12. According to Universal’s website the theme park will pay between $7.75 and &10.75 per hour for the openings.

Jobs needed include custodial, food service, merchandise and transportation workers.

SeaWorld also announced hundreds of job openings for the season. Combined the two Orlando theme parks are looking for 3,000 new workers!

Part of the reason Universal Studios needs all of the extra help is for the upcoming summer concert series they host every year. It was recently revealed that the concert series, which begins June 11 and will run for six consecutive Saturdays, will include classic girl group Go-Gos who will lead off the event at Music Plaza, followed by Nelly on June 18 and Third Eye Blind on June 25.

Then in July, Universal guests can enjoy Trey Songz on July 2, Boys Like Girls on July 9 and Drake on July 16.

Guests can see their favorite musician every Saturday night at 9 p.m. The concerts are included in regular theme-park admission.

If you’re interested in attending Universal Orlando’s Summer Concert Series you can always find discounted tickets to the theme park right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Right now you can enjoy Universal’s most thrilling rides like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Revenge of the Mummy for just $81.00 for adults and $73.00 for children with a Universal 1-Day Base Ticket. If you have yet to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Universal Park to Park tickets for prices you won’t believe! When you buy an adult 2-Day Park to Park Ticket for just $134.99 or a child’s 2-Day Park to Park Ticket for only $121.99 you’ll get 2 days free!

Over at SeaWorld you ca enjoy the aquatic park’s newest show One Ocean and see the great creatures of the sea for only $75.00 for adults and $66.00 for children.

Stay tuned for more details on Universal Orlando’s Summer Concert Series as summer nears. Until then enjoy all of the fun and excitement the movie theme park has to offer!

May the 4th Be With You

2011-05-06T09:39:52-04:00

Star Wars fans are celebrating all over the world today as May 4th is marked as Star Wars day!

And what perfect timing to be celebrating the legendary movie as Star Wars Weekends 2011 is returning to Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 20 – June 12.

The return is just in time to celebrate the grand opening of the new Star Tours attraction on May 20.

Jedi, Sith, Ewks, Wookies, galactic bounty hunters and stormtroopers will all be a part of the May 20 celebrations.

Star Wars stars will also make appearances alongside Jedi Mickey and Princess Leia Minnie, Some of the stars attending the event include James Arnold Taylor (voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Clone Wars) and Ashley Eckstein (voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars).

Eckstein will be on hand to host “Clone Wars: Behind the Force,” and Taylor will perform in a one-man show that exhibits some of the many voices he has performed throughout his career.

Disney has confirmed that more than 60 star Wars characters will roam the park, posing for pictures and signing autographs.

Here is a list of the scheduled celebrities expected to appear during the Star Wars Weekends:

May 20-22

Anthony Daniels (C-3PO)

The Clone Wars Special Guest: Dave Filoni (Supervising Director)

May 27-29

Anthony Daniels (C-3PO)

Bruce Spence (Tion Medon)

The Clone Wars Voice Talent Guest: Dee Bradley Baker (Captain Rex)

June 3-5

Ray Park (Darth Maul)

Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett)

The Clone Wars Voice Talent Guest: Matt Lanter (Anakin)

June10-12

Ray Park (Darth Maul)

Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca)

The Clone Wars Voice Talent Guest: Tom Kane (Yoda)

If you’re a Star Wars fan the Hollywood Studios Star Wars Weekends are a great way to get your galactic fix! And you can get that fix at a fraction of the price when you get your Walt Disney World tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Experience Star Wars Weekends and all of the other magic Hollywood Studios has to offer with a 3-Day Magic Your Way Base Ticket for just $222.44 for adults or $200.66 for children. Or spend three days going from Disney park to Disney park with the Magic Your Way Park Hopper Ticket. For three days you can enjoy the thrills of Magic Kingdom, the wild animals of Animal Kingdom, the countries of the world at Epcot and Star Wars Weekends and more at Hollywood Studios for just $274.00 for adults and $251.50 for children!

May the force be with you on this May 4th and everybody here at OrlandoFunTickets.com hopes to see you at one or all of the Star Wars Weekends beginning May 20!

Universal Studios To Announce New Attraction

2011-05-19T10:56:07-04:00

Universal Studios has been posting hints online as to what the newest attraction will be at the Orlando theme park. In March, the park took to their Facebook page to tell fans about an “all-new experience based on an amazing concept.”

Guests and theme park analysts are predicting the newest attraction to Universal Orlando’s ride repertoire to be a Despicable Me themed ride.

Could the minions be coming to Central Florida? According to Seth Kubersky, who wrote a guidebook called “Universal Orlando 2011” they are and they will be replacing Jimmy Neutron.

He says, “It’s a recent film hit of Universal’s. It’s a film that Universal owns so they don’t have to pay licensing rights.”

Kubersky added that Universal would not have to spend a lot of money to convert the Jimmy Neutron space over to Despicable Me and they could use existing hardware to make a high tech simulator ride.

Guest Sierra Mote, who plans to visit the Orlando theme park this week thinks a Despicable Me attraction would be adorable. “A lot of people love that movie. A lot of people love it. Even friends my age, like college students thought it was a really fun and cute movie.”

The possible Despicable Me attraction isn’t the only change Universal Studios is expected to announce. The Orlando theme park is also rumored to announce an update to the popular Amazing Adventures Spiderman Ride. People who have rode it over the past few days say it has gone high tech. Universal has replaced the old film projections with digital 3D, fro a new modern look.

No word yet on when these announcements will be made but check back right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com for developments on the Universal attractions. In the meantime you can get your fill of the Jimmy Neutron ride (just in case it gets replaced) with excellent savings on Universal Orlando tickets. Right now OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Universal Base Tickets for just $81.00 for adults and $73.00 for children. If you’d like to ride Jimmy Neutron and check out the Wizarding World of Harry Potter you might be more interested in a Universal Park to Park Ticket. For just $134.99 adults can enjoy 2-days of Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure fun and kids can enjoy it for only $121.99!

And if you do decide to purchase one of these tickets make sure you plan your trip around Universal’s Summer Concert Series beginning on June 11 with the Go-Go’s. The Universal Summer Concert Series is included in the price of admission and runs through July 16. Make sure you take advantage of this fantastic event and you could see one of your favorite artists!

George Lucas and Bob Iger Launch Star Tours Attraction

2011-05-24T14:37:46-04:00

Star Wars creator George Lucas and Disney President and CEO Bob Iger opened “Star Tours – The Adventures Continue,” a new 3-D adventure at Walt Disney World. The duo wielded lightsabers amid a legion of stormtroopers on Friday.

Along with George and Bob a cast of hundreds of Star Wars characters and performers, including Anthony Daniels, who has played the droid C3PO since the first film debuted in 1977 – gathered on Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the launch of the attraction.

Not surprisingly the launch of Star Tours began the opening day of Star Wars Weekends, a popular event that celebrates the Star Wars legacy with special shows, presentations, motorcades and memorabilia. Star Wars Weekends continue each Friday – Sunday through June 12, 2011.

Disney’s newest attraction sends guests on a virtual journey throughout the Star Wars galaxy. “Star Tours immerses guests into the Star Wars universe like never before,” Iger said. “The innovative technology and storytelling take guests on thrilling new adventures, bringing George Lucas’ iconic characters and locations to life in a complete new way.”

Along with the amazing 3-D technology that delivers a vivid and realistic visual experience, Star Tours offers a dramatic score and motion simulator-based technology, which immerses guests in a Star Wars adventure they’ve never seen before. Walt Disney World worked with Lucasfilm, Ltd and Industrial Light & Magic – the groundbreaking visual effects division of Lucasfilm – to bring the attraction to life.

The original Star Tours, which had been pleasing guests since the 1980’s, shut down in 2010 so Disney’s Imagineers could begin work on the new attraction.

In the newest Star Tours, “Star Tours – The Adventures Continue,” there are more than 50 story combinations, so guests will discover a new adventure every time they ride the attraction.

The Starspeeder spacecraft takes guests on a wild adventure, visiting several planets from the Star Wars films. Among them are the icy planet of Hoth, the lush jungles of Kashyyk and the underwater Gungan world on Naboo.

And of course, guests will encounter some of the famous Star Wars characters from the series, including Yoda, Admiral Ackbar, Darth Vader and Boba Fett. “Skytroopers,” a legion of stormtroopers created specifically for the attraction, might even join in the chase.

There’s no telling where the force will take you so make sure you catch a flight on Star Tours – The Adventures Continue whenever you get a chance. Flights are now departing during regular business hours at Hollywood Studios.

For special savings on Disney World tickets make sure you visit the “Discount Disney World Tickets” right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

SeaWorld Attendance Booming

2011-05-25T17:34:25-04:00

It’s good news this week at Orlando’s popular aquatic park, SeaWorld as attendance is rebounding the company’s top executive said Wednesday.

SeaWorld Parks President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Atchison said in an interview with the Orlando Sentinel that companywide attendance rose 7 percent during the first three months of 2011.

Atchinson said he expects the gains to continue through the busy summer travel months, predicting attendance growth in the mid-single-digit percentages. Although SeaWorld Parks does not own hotels, which could provide additional booking data, Atchison said advance ticket sales are ahead of last year and reservations at Discovery Cove, SeaWorld’s limited admission niche park, are up by double-digit percentages.

“We’ve seen very strong attendance across the board with our parks,” Atchison said.

We’ve got good momentum.”

Atchinson also said SeaWorld is “seeing very good performance” in terms of how much visitors are spending in the park.

This news comes just two days before the company formally opens a new roller coaster and animal exhibit at its Busch Gardens Tampa Bay theme park, one of ten new attractions SeaWorld is opening around the country in 2011. SeaWorld is expected to spend nearly $200 million on new rides and other additions this year in what executives have called the biggest capital-spending spree in company history.

The park also announced this week that it will build a new version of Aquatica, at SeaWorld San Antonio. It is expected to open next year.

“Certainly, an improved economy, a broad-strokes economy, is better for everybody…I think the biggest thing we’re seeing, though, is just a great response from the offers we put in place and, more importantly, the attractions we’re opening,” he said. “We’ve got a great lineup ahead and as we communicate those messages, and you can see them filter through our print and advertising, people are getting excited and we’re getting more interest.”

Even with the increase in gas prices SeaWorld and Atchison have confidence in the park’s continued success.

“Our research says that they’ll [gas prices will] stay in a relative range that is acceptable to us in the next so many months, and that’s somewhere in the low $4’s” he said. “I don’t think it will have a significant impact on us.”

If you plan on visiting SeaWorld this summer make sure you check out discounted tickets to the aquatic park right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Right now adults can enjoy the park for just $75.00 and children can explore the sea for only $66.00! And if you’d like to take a weekend and visit both SeaWorld and Aquatica check out the combo ticket for just $101.50 for adults and $93.oo for children.

Walt Disney World Summer Fun

2011-05-27T14:15:33-04:00

Walt Disney World Resort is making sure their guests create beautiful memories this summer with new adventures to places no one has ever gone before! From far away planets in “Star Tours – The Adventures Continue” at Hollywood Studios to “The Magic, The Memories, and You” at Magic Kingdom this Orlando theme park is making Summer 2011 the best yet! Guests can now fill their night with memories at “The Magic, The Memories, and You,” a dramatic new projection show filled with special effects and magic, that transforms Cinderella Castle into shimmering canvases for images of guests and the memories they made that day at Magic Kingdom. In just ten-minutes, guests can enjoy an experience unlike anything they’ve ever seen before. “The Magic, The Memories, and You,” which is themed to beloved Disney stories accompanied with playful animated sequences seems to defy the architecture of the buildings – and even “bring the architecture to life,” said Alan Bruun, associate creative director, Walt Disney World Entertainment. Guests can see the show most nights with up to two shows per night depending on theme park operating hours and other special events. Children ages 2 to 7 can enjoy “Jake and the Never Land Pirates” at Hollywood Studios as they perform favorites from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Mandy and Little Einstein. Also at Hollywood Studios is the energetic and fun-filled meet-and-play experience with Phineas and Ferb. Phineas and Feb from the popular television show of the same name – “know what they’re gonna do today”: the duo will make a movie about their crazy adventures. With the help of you and movie director Cletus Filmore, they will recreate their favorite moments, unless of course they are meeting with their adoring fans, signing autographs and taking photos. The meet-and-play experience will take place near the exit of “Muppet Vision 3-D.” Mickey Mouse will be doing his own meet-and-greet at his permanent new location in “Town Square Theater.” Guests can obtain a Disney’s FASTPASS ticket when they can return to see the popular character for photos, autographs and hugs! Guests can venture off the beaten path at Animal Kingdom in the new immersive, add-on experience, Wild Africa Trek. This additional experience takes a small group of guests on personalized, guided excursions that include a bushwalk through unexplored areas of the forest along with over-landing in customized vehicles across the animal-filled savanna. The Wild Africa Trek is a separate ticket from admission to the park. That’s just a few of the fun activities happening this summer at Walt Disney World. If you want to know what else is going on you can get discounted tickets to the theme park right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Gatorland Offers Birds Eye View of Park

2011-05-27T14:56:08-04:00

Florida’s alligator theme park, Gatorland is spicing things up a bit this summer with a new zip line attraction that takes guests over the park, including dozens of alligators!

The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line officially opens to the public June 16, but a lucky few got a preview flight of the newest thrill-ride. Theresa Crouch, a 61-year-old grandmother of two, was one of nine participants to get a chance to fly over the park Thursday.

“Love it, love it, love it,” Crouch said of her zip line experience. “I say everybody should come do it.”

The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line takes riders along 1,200 feet of line strung between seven different towers. Riders can reach speeds more than 25 miles per hour as they zip over the park’s star attractions including Cuban and Nile crocodiles and the Alligator Breeding Marsh filled with 130 giant reptiles watching from below. Make sure you hold on tight!

Riders will launch from heights of up to 65 feet and get the opportunity to soar across five zip lines ranging from 230 feet to more than 500 feet, and carefully across a swinging bridge over the park’s main walkway. The entire experience is 2.5 hours and includes a brief safety and orientation session.

But just how safe is Orlando’s only zip line that races above dozens of alligators and crocodiles? According to Gatorland Park Director, Mike Hileman said, “It’s perfectly safe.”

He said guests will go first through a safety briefing and are then supervised by trained instructors every step of the way.

But riders beware there are a few restrictions. Children must be at least 37 inches tall and weigh at least 60 pounds. Adults must weigh less than 275 pounds and may be asked to step on the scale before being cleared to ride.

“We’re going to have young. We’re going to have the older. We’re going to have the people who aren’t so athletic. We’re going to have athletes. We’re going to have thrill seekers. It’s going to cast a net that we’re going to catch a lot of people with,” Hileman said.

If you’re interested in The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line it will cost $69.99 per person. That price includes admission to the park. And if you’d rather stick to the ground and the gators OrlandoFunTickets.com offers Gatorland adult admission for just $18.95 and $11.95 for children. In addition to the zip line you can enjoy thousands of alligators and crocodiles, one-of-a-kind reptilian shows, an aviary, petting zoo, swamp walk, educational programs and so much more!

Scotty McCreery Celebrates American Idol Win at Walt Disney World

2011-06-02T12:41:47-04:00

On May 25 country music singer Scotty McCreery became the next American Idol and to celebrate his win there was only one place he wanted to be: Walt Disney World of course!

Just five days after his win Scotty spent the day at the Orlando theme park where he was honored in a celebratory parade at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Excited fans lined the streets, cheering on the youngest contestant to ever win the popular singing show, as he joined Mickey Mouse in a convertible sports car and greeted fans before taking the microphone to sing his new hit single, “I Love You This Big” in front of where else? “The American Idol Experience” attraction in the park.

McCreery’s visit to Walt Disney World also celebrated “The American Idol Experience,” the popular “American Idol” themed attraction at Hollywood Studios.

“The American Idol Experience” – the first major theme park attraction in the world based on the popular television series – was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in conjunction with 19 TV ltd and FremantleMedia Enterprises. In the attraction, Disney guests are able to experience the excitement of “The American Idol” show, by either auditioning for a Disney producer, performing on-stage in front of a packed theater, or voting for their favorite performance from their audience seats.

Contestants who receive the most audience votes in preliminary shows return to star in that evening’s grand finale show. The top vote-getting guest in the finale show receives “The American Idol Experience” Dream Ticket – which allows an eligible holder to schedule a front-of-line audition at a future regional audition for the “American Idol” show!

If you’d like to show-off your singing talents in front of hundreds in “The American Idol Experience” now you can with a 3-day Magic Your Way Base ticket from OrlandofunTickets.com! For just $222.44 for adults and $200.66 for children you can test your singing voice three times and explore Disney’s other three parks!

And speaking of park hopping the Magic Your Way Water Park Fun and More ticket is an excellent way to beat the heat this summer and enjoy the magic at all four Disney parks! For just $274.oo for adults and $25150 for children you can sing your heart out at “The American Idol Experience” and enjoy the waters of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, Disney Quest Indoor Interactive Theme Park, Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex, Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course and of course the rest of the Disney parks!

SeaWorld Looks Outside of Parks For Growth

2011-06-06T17:10:31-04:00

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is getting out of its comfort zone, accelerating plans to expand new businesses outside of its theme parks. The aquatic theme park looks to follow in the footsteps of its fellow Orlando theme parks and delve into the world of movies, television shows and hotels.

After years of debate, SeaWorld will release a feature film this month through SeaWorld Pictures, the company’s new film division. The film, a sea-turtle documentary, is expected to reach as many as 400 theaters this summer, and is the first of what executives hope will be a long line of SeaWorld-produced nature films that capitalize on there company’s reputation for marine-life expertise.

But the sea-turtle documentary is just the beginning of how SeaWorld plans to expand its product. Company executives say they are exploring new projects in television, publishing and consumer products.

SeaWorld is also working on plans to build its first hotel. And the theme park says it is making progress towards its first international theme park, with the most likely location somewhere in Southeast Asia.

“There are really a few things that we’re focused on as a company. One is looking forward to grow the parks we have,” said Jim Atchison, SeaWorld’ Parks’ president and chief executive officer. “But we’ll also look for ways to expand the business internationally or into new geographic markets. We’ll also look for ways to grow the business from a tangential standpoint, into other lines of business.”

Atchison also said he thinks there’s still room for SeaWorld to grow in North America, particularly with some of its niche brands such as Aquatica and Discovery Cove.

“Do I think that in the U.S. marketplace there’s a place for 10 more SeaWorlds? Probably not” Atchison said. “But there’s probably other locations that could support other concepts that we have, and I think, do very well.”

One of the key corporate goals of the company is to “take such a wonderful, established brand and really expand it beyond the borders of our parks,” said Scott Helmstedter, a former entertainment producer who in April was hired as SeaWorld Parks’ new chief creative officer.

And the first glimpse of SeaWorld’s plans will come June 21, when “Turtle; The Incredible Journey” premieres in a 3-D theater at SeaWorld San Diego. The documentary follows a loggerhead sea turtle on a 9,000-mile journey from hatching to maturity to a return to its Florida nesting grounds.

The movie will begin with limited release in New York and Los Angeles, and the three cities with SeaWorld theme parks, Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio. But will spread to about 40 markets by the end of the summer and will be followed by a DVD release in November.

Summer Nights at Busch Gardens

2011-06-07T14:16:38-04:00

If you plan on visiting Busch Gardens this summer get ready for a day full of thrilling rides and shows and a night full of special entertainment, high-energy DJs and Busch Gardens’ newest roller coaster, Cheetah Hunt during Summer Nights.

Beginning June 10 through August 14 guests will have the chance to see special entertainment such as the award-winning Kinetix. Kinetix’s energizing performances include live musicians, singers, dancers and artists from around the world. The thrilling performances, along with modern music and fire effects, will be held every night in Gwazi Park at 9 p.m. To ensure a good spot make sure you get there at 8 p.m. to dance and play games with some of the Party Starters.

For more music and a little dancing stop by all three of the DJ locations in Jungala, Stanleyville and Gwazi Plaza every night starting at 5 p.m. Party Starters will host dance challenges all day throughout the park and pick the most outgoing guests with the best dance moves to compete in the Dance-Off competition.

The Dance-Off will be a three-round dance competition starting at 7 p.m. in Desert Grill. The audience will pick the winner with the best moves by applause. The first place winner will receive four tickets to Busch Gardens.

New to this year’s Summer Nights is “Cool Allusions featuring Christopher Cool.” Every Tuesday through Sunday and July 4, magician Christopher Cool will be performing his tricks at the Marrakesh Theater at the top of each hour, 5-8 p.m.

And for a little thrill in your night make sure you ride Busch Gardens’ newest roller coaster. Cheetah Hunt, the first triple launch roller coaster, shoots guests up into Windcatcher Tower and across the Serengeti Plain. If going from 0 to 60 isn’t your thing you can always experience the thrill of the Cheetah at Cheetah Run. Video panels and interactive touch-screen stations are spread across the Cheetah Run viewing area so you can see these incredible creatures no matter where you are. And of course don’t forget to check out the rest of Busch Gardens’ thrilling roller coaster rides and shows throughout the day and night!

Park hours for Summer Nights are extended until 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Don’t forget Summer Nights is included with a day’s paid admission or any annual pass.

And for tickets to Busch Gardens just go to “Busch Gardens tickets” right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Right now you can experience Summer Nights at the roller coaster theme park for just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children.

Grand Reef Expansion to Open June 10th

2011-06-08T15:53:41-04:00

SeaWorld announced last Wednesday the highly anticipated addition to Discovery Cove, the Grand Reef, will officially open this Friday, June 10th. The new area will feature the ability to swim and dive underwater with sharks, rays and other sea life as well as a beautiful beach, and a new daring underwater adventure called SeaVenture.

The Grand Reef significantly expands the Orlando theme park, which is the first in the area to allow visitors to swim alongside dolphins.

The all-new saltwater reef will be filled with 7,000 tropical fish, from colorful angelfish and tangs to groupers and sardines. Snorkeling will take place among canyons inspired by reefs from around the world and guarantees sights of amazing exotic sea life.

Behind huge windows guests will be able to watch lionfish and nurse, white-tipped and black-tipped sharks, spotted eagle rays, and zebra sharks and more. Fake resin coral will be sued to simulate a real reef.

The Grand Reef will contain 1.2 million gallons of water up to 13 feet deep and 5 million pounds of sand!

For guests who prefer to stay dry an elevated walkway over the pool is the perfect way to experience the sea life while staying out of the water. Guests can also enjoy a stroll on the pristine beach around The Grand Reef.

But perhaps the most unique feature of Grand Reef will be the underwater walking tour, called SeaVenture. This one-of-a-kind experience enables guests to explore under the water’s surface while wearing special diving/breathing helmets. But keep in mind, just like Discovery Cove’s dolphin encounter SeaVenture will cost an additional $59 per person. But exploration of the rest of Grand Reef will be included in regular Discovery Cove admission. Unfortunately guests will have to wait until the end of the summer to experience this attraction.

The Grand Reef replaces the existing, smaller reef area, where guests can snorkel with fish and rays. That will be closed and turned into a yet-to-be-announced experience in 2012.

In addition to The Grand Reef guests to Discovery Cove will enjoy unlimited access to swim and snorkeling areas and aviary, complimentary use of snorkel gear, wet suits, towel, locker, sunscreen, showers and changing rooms, reserved Dolphin-swim experience if you purchase the Dolphin Swim ticket, and best of all your choice of unlimited admission to SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Aquatica for 14 consecutive days!

If you’d like to spend a day at Discovery Cove’s sister park SeaWorld you can always find excellent deals right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Right now guests can enjoy Shamu and all of his friends for just $75.00 for adults and $67.00 for children.

Alone to Return at Busch Gardens HowlOScream

2011-06-09T15:48:23-04:00

Busch Gardens announced today that the popular Howl-O-Scream haunted house Alone would be returning to the Halloween event this year.

The news was announced on Howl-O-Scream’s Facebook page and when a fan asked if Alone was going to return, the Insider replied with a very simple answer: “From what I’m hearing, YES! (And the crowds rejoiced…).

We’re still not sure if the house will be a continuation of last year’s storyline, or tie in with this year’s rumored Zombie theme.

Last year, guests to Alone had the option of either entering the haunted house alone, or with a small group of guests. Both options allowed for a very personal and very terrifying experience. If a guest made it through the house on their own, they would receive an exclusive t-shirt only given to Alone “survivors”.

The Insider also revealed that the website will be coming soon.

“It’ll be August – and I’ll give you plenty of advance warning as to the exact day. Late July/early August from what I’m hearing with teasers before then.”

In addition, the Insider said that a commercial for the event has already been filmed, and previewed.

“So I happened to see a preview of the new HOS 2011 TV commercial yesterday. I cannot even explain to all of you how royally messed up it is… in a very, very good way!”

If you love Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream you can even get a chance to play a part in the spooky event. Open auditions will start in July. In the meantime you can always enjoy the excitement of Busch Gardens for less right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Enjoy thrilling rides; roller coasters including Busch Gardens newest Cheetah Hunt, the coaster that launches its riders to a speed of 60 miles per hour; and over 2,000 animals from around the world including 14 cheetahs that will be showcased in the new Cheetah Run that accompanies Cheetah Hunt all for just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children.

And beginning June 10 through August 14 guests can enjoy Summer Nights. The yearly summer event will include special entertainment such as the award-winning Kinetix. Kinetix’s energizing performances include live musicians, singers, dancers and artists from around the world. The thrilling performances, along with modern music and fire effects, will be held every night in Gwazi Park at 9 p.m. To ensure a good spot make sure you get there at 8 p.m. to dance and play games with some of the Party Starters.

Top Attractions at Orlando Theme Parks

2011-06-10T15:43:13-04:00

Summer is upon us! It’s time for some fun in the sun and what better way to do so than at one of Orlando’s many theme parks! But with so many choices out there how do you know where to spend your days? OrlandoFunTickets.com can help. Thanks to Orlando Sentinel here is a list of the top attractions you don’t want to miss:

Dragon Challenge, Islands of Adventure. This double coaster was known as Dueling Dragons until it was repurposed for Wizarding World but fear not, the ride remains a thriller. The two tracks are intertwined, making for a series of near-collisions. OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Islands of Adventure tickets for just $81.00

"Festival of the Lion King," Disney's Animal Kingdom. Puppetry, outstanding singers, costumed dancers, tumblers, aerial acts, fire twirlers and fun audience participation make this Disney attraction a must –see and now you can for just $222.44 for an adult 3-day Magic Your Way Base Ticket.

Kraken, SeaWorld Orlando. In some ways, it's a standard roller coaster but hits the mark perfectly in several aspects. It has just enough verve and inversion for just long enough to create a "wow!" factor. And for an even bigger “wow” factor tickets to SeaWorld start at just $75.00!

Toy Story Mania, Disney's Hollywood Studios. It's like a king-size video game you want to play over and over. Enough said.

Manta, SeaWorld Orlando. This is still the most distinctive roller coaster experience in town, taking off in Superman position before climbing the dramatic lift hill only to head down headfirst. It’s a real rush!

Haunted Mansion, Magic Kingdom. It's a Disney classic not based on a classic Disney film. Recent enhancements to the queue — more graves, more story — and improvement to the hitchhiking ghost effect at ride's end serve to cement its legacy.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Islands of Adventure. The technology in the ride vehicle is amazing, as is the Quidditch scene where passengers fly along, but do’t take our word for it. See for yourself for just $81.00.

Tower of Terror, Disney's Hollywood Studios. An oldie but goodie. This attraction stays true to its theme from entrance to exit. It's a great shared terror, and the unpredictability of the drop sequences keeps guests on edge.

Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Islands of Adventure. Here's what's amazing: A 12-year-old ride that still dominates with 3-D effects and the most exhilarating and realistic freefall around. And plans for digital enhancements that will arrive next year make this attraction a favorite.

These are just a few of the suggested rides guests should try this summer. And if you do plan on visiting more than one Orlando theme park make sure you check out OrlandoFunTickets.com for savings!

George Lucas Talks Star Tours

2011-06-13T16:37:22-04:00

Now that the new 3-D version of “Star Tours” at Walt Disney World has opened George Lucas is weighing in on the new technology and the ride’s future.

The original 1987 “Star Tours” ride “was relatively simplistic,” “Star Wars” creator George Lucas said. “It went through basically an asteroid field and then we got into a battle, sort of above the Death Star kind of thing but it was very simplistic.”

Now “it’s much cleaverer, in the fact that we now have like 50 places to go. You never get the same ride twice.” Lucas says there are a lot of secret cookies and other events as well. “You’d have to ride the ride for at least 100 times in order to get to see it all.”

The excitement begins on the way to the ride’s spaceship as the line winds through a spacecraft complete with heat imaging panels and animated ‘droids, including the famous droid from the film C3PO.

Once on the ship you hear rumors that a Rebel Spy is on board. Next thing you know the Imperial forces chase the ships through different worldsfrom the “Star Wars” saga including swampy Dagobah, icy Hoth, sophisticated Naboo, Kashyyk, the Eookiee home world or the interior of the Death Star – as it attempts to deliver the spy to the Rebel Alliance.

Guests on the new 3-D ride can expect to see some of their favorite characters from all six movies including the bounty hunter, Boba Fett, R2-D2, Yoda, Princess Leia and Jar Jar Binks.

And to top it off the 3-D glasses make the trip look all the more realistic as the animatronics in your seat weave in time with the digital film.

“Now that we’re digital, we can create, we can insert new story lines, new pieces and can have even more than 54,” said Tom Fitzgerald, senior creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering.

“Almost the whole thing is digital,” says Bill George, visual effects supervisor at Industrial Light and Magic (ILM). “There’s a few segments that were shot with live action sequences, like the Wookiee that hits the window – that was a live action piece. The Darth Vader is all digital, the stormtroopers that are running are all digital.”

“The ‘Star Wars’ universe is something that’s well established, the people really, really, really know the characters and the environments and so for both Glenn (McIntosh, ILM Animation Director) and I, who are so major Star Wars geeks, we wanted to make sure that everything we used was authentic. That may sound simple and straightforward but it’s not.”

To ride the new Star Tours for less check out Disney tickets right here o n OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Walt Disney Worlds Food and Wine Festival to Feature Foods From Hawaii Caribbean Islands and Portugal

2011-06-14T13:58:05-04:00

Get a taste of Hawaii, the Caribbean and Portugal this fall at the 2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World. Featuring a “Passport to a World of Flavors” for its 16th year this September 30 – November 12, the annual festival will feature more than 25 international marketplaces offering small plates of food from around the world as well as beer, wine and cocktails. And this year, the festival is expanding your tastebuds with three new cultures and a new comfort lounge for your relaxation!

Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands and Portugal are all making an appearance at this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The three cultures will feature food such as Kailua pork sliders, ropa vieja, and calamari salad. And while you nosh on these new culinary treats you can relax in style at the Odyssey Lounge, New to the festival this year the Odyssey Lounge will offer games, web access and charging stations for electronic devices.

Also, during this year’s event, a cranberry bog by Ocean Spray will provide guests with more cranberries and more information on the tart fruit than you could ever imagine! Third-, fourth- and fifth-generation cranberry growers will travel with more than 2,000 pounds of fresh cranberries from rural areas around the country to share their personal farming histories while sharing their craft with the public.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will be part of Ocean Spray’s Fifth Annual Ultimate Cranberry Recipe Contest for executive chefs.

Cranberries aside, there will be more than 270 chefs cooking up their specialties for the event, including celebrity chefs Jeff Henderson, Cat Cora, Alan Wong, Gale Gand, Suvir Saran, Jamie Deen, Rock Harper, Celina Tio and more.

The 16th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is part of a regular day admission to Epcot, but keep in mind each plate of food or beverage that you want to try does cost a few extra bucks.

Stay tuned for more news on the 2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival as the event nears. In the meantime if you can’t wait until September to experience the tastes of the world you can always find discounted Epcot tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. For a long weekend or a quick summer break you can enjoy three days at Epcot for just $222.44 for adults or $200.66 for children. For more of Disney’s magic check out the Magic Your Way Park Hopper Tickets and you can spend the same three days exploring Epcot and the rest of Disney’s parks for just $274.00 for adults and $251.50 for children.

For more ways to experience Disney for less make sure you surf through the “Discount Disney Tickets” tab.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Website Wins Webby

2011-06-15T16:29:59-04:00

Universal Studios’ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure has only been open for a year and already it’s become one of the most sought out attractions in Orlando. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is so popular even it’s website is getting noticed! In fact, it has received two of the highest honors for excellence on the internet – The Webby Award and the People’s Voice Award for “Best Tourism Website.”

The website has helped guests not only in the states but around the world learn more about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The site features ground-breaking interactive elements, including:

A photo-realistic, fly-through tour of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts castle The Wizarding World News, where you can learn more about this spectacularly themed environment through news articles, video and other multimedia tools A virtual Owl Post, where you can send e-cards to friends and family

An augmented reality map, which appeared online throughout 2010 and allowed guests to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in a unique way by blending real-life environments with computer animation

“From the very beginning, our Interactive and Creative teams strived to imagine beyond normal boundaries and assume anything was possible with this website,” said Al Callier, vice president of interactive development and web production. “These awards are an outstanding honor and a testament to the hard work of many extraordinary creative minds.”

This year marks the 15th Annual WEBBY Awards, and the leading international award association received more than 10,000 entries worldwide in more than 100 categories. Two awards are presented in each category – The Webby Award and the People’s Voice Award.

The Webby Award-winner is selected by members of The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, which includes more than 750 of the world’s leading Web experts, business professionals and creative celebrities. The People’s Voice Award is determined by the online community, and the winners receive hundreds of thousands of votes.

If The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Website is winning awards you can imagine how spectacular the actual attraction is! And now you can experience Harry and all of his magic for less at OrlandoFunTickets.com! For just $81.00 you can spend a day walking through Hogsmeade; take the Dragon Challenge; visit Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Room of Requirement and more all while you soar above the castle grounds as you join Harry and his friends on an unforgettable adventure on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey! Or play at both Universal and Islands of Adventure with a Park to Park ticket for just $111.55! Whatever you decide OrlandoFunTickets.com has the discounted ticket for you!

Universal Celebrates First Anniversary of Wizarding World of Harry Potter

2011-06-20T15:22:36-04:00

It was a confetti, streamer and butterbeer-filled celebration on Saturday as Universal Studios celebrated the first anniversary of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure.

The celebration continues today via Universal’s Facebook page in a new “Share Your Story” tab where fans are given the opportunity to interact with each other and share memories and photos from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

In honor of the one-year anniversary, here are what some fans are saying about Universal’s newest and most popular attraction:

Chris Bell, the guy who says he’s been on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey more than 600 times, said that the longest he ever waited for the attraction was 3 hours, and that was on grand-opening day. But mostly, he goes through the single-rider line. He has a Deathly Hallows tattoo.

+ Although Karen Martin said there was nothing left for her to buy at Wizarding World, she “only” owns two of the wands, and she hasn’t purchased an official robe. “That’s a little crazy,” she said. “I’m a fan, but there’s a limit.”

+ Robert Thompson, the pop-culture prof from Syracuse, said those robes would raise eyebrows in most places, they serve a purpose at Wizarding world. “Here is a place, in geographical space, where you can exist as these characters and expect to have not only people not mocking you or pointing you out or making fun of you, but you actually add to the whole experience,” he said.

+ Hilary Klein is an enthusiastic fan, and she’s happy that houses beyond Gryffindor are represented at Wizarding World. (She’s very Ravenclaw). But she does have some storyline issues with Forbidden Journey. “It’s cool because you get to go through all the scenes from the book, but it’s not a new story,” she said. “But the technology in that is awesome and I love it.” She was hoping for original content from J.K. Rowling.

+ Tim Hinton, the guy who loves butterbeer, is a music composer. With his job he can live anywhere, he said, and he chose to move to Orlando in 2000 because of the theme parks.

“If everybody got a coaster once a week, the world would probably end most of its wars,” he said

If you've not been able to visit The Wizarding World, you can tell why you want to on the "Share Your Story" tab tool. U.S. residents who do that will be entered in a contest where they can win a trip to Universal Orlando Resort.

But even if you don’t win a trip to the Orlando theme park you can always find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Walt Disney World Lights Up The Night This July 4th

2011-06-21T15:49:18-04:00

Walt Disney World is lighting up the sky this July 4 with special pyrotechnic shows, including a patriotic display at Magic Kingdom, a rock’n’roll spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a classic sky show at Epcot filed with an Independence Day finale. Here’s how Disney is celebrating July 4:

Magic Kingdom will present “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” This patriotic fireworks spectacular, paying homage to the hopes and dreams of America’s forefathers, will light the skies at 9 p.m. July 4 – and for guests who would like to begin the Independence Day celebration early, the show also will be presented July 3 at 9 p.m.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, traditional Fourth of July fireworks take on a different spin when Mulch, Sweat, and Shears perform for the all-new “Rockin’ 4th of July Celebration”! These resident landscapers take Disney guests on a musical road trip across America that will highlight each region’s contribution to rock and roll. Fireworks, lighting and special effects – backed by the driving live rock and roll of Mulch, Sweat, and Shears – combine to bring a new twist to celebrating Independence Day. Showtime July 4 is 9:45 p.m. Before or after the show, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can thrill to Disney’s Fantasmic!, performing July 4 at 9 and 10:30 p.m.

At Epcot, sky-watchers can check out “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” bursting high above World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations is a 14-minute spectacular during which pyrotechnics, lasers, water and music are all used to tell a story about the past, present and future of our planet. On the Fourth of July, the show will be enhanced with "The Heartbeat of Freedom," an overture of traditional Americana themes displayed in a pyrotechnic and laser light event. The show is at 10 p.m.

Epcot guests can also enjoy “Voices of Liberty 4th of July Concert” and participate in meet-and-greets with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress at American Adventure.

On July 2 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels are celebrating Independence Day with a BBQ Bash at Fantasia Gardens Pavillion from 3:00 to 8:00. The BBQ will include traditional BBQ food, a live band and classic carnival games such as Skee Ball, Frog Hop and Ring Toss. The event is open to hotel guests and the public, so make sure you stop by!

And to make your July 4th even more spectacular OrlandoFunTickets.com is now offering Walt Disney World 3-Day Magic Your Way Base Tickets for just $222.44 for adults and $200.66 for children. With the 3-Day Magic Your Way Base Ticket you can celebrate the patriotic holiday all weekend long, and then some!

Universal Studios Introduces App

2011-06-22T15:58:54-04:00

If you forgot to grab a map at the front entrance, want more information on a ride or just want to make all of your friends jealous as you check-in at Universal Studios Orlando now you can because…there’s an app for that!

Universal Orlando revealed today its mobile application for theme-park guests to use in Universal Citywalk, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, home of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

The app, available as a free download for iPhone and Android users uses GPS to guide parkgoers. It features interactive maps, details about rides and attractions, Facebook and Twitter check-ins and the ability to make reservations at a Universal Studios restaurant! How cool is that?

The app does not include wait times for rides “at this point,” a Universal Orlando spokesperson said today. It can steer users toward the wait-time boards, she said.

The app also includes a check-in game that gives users a chance to win a savings guide worth up to $150.

This exciting news comes just days after the Orlando theme park raised their admission prices. But when you shop on OrlandoFunTickets.com you don’t have to worry about increased prices to your favorite theme park because right now you can still get Universal Orlando tickets for just $81.00 for adults and $73.00 for children! You can even ride the movies and explore Hogwarts at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure for less with a 1, 2, or 7-day park-to-park ticket.

And if that isn’t reason enough to spend your summer at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure maybe the fact that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has drawn in more people to the theme park than ever before!

Estimated attendance at Islands of Adventure ballooned 30.2 percent for the year — from fewer than 4.6 million visitors to more than 5.9 million — as huge crowds descended on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the $265 million themed area that opened in Islands exactly one year ago.

Universal Orlando's original theme park, Universal Studios Florida, also benefited from the crowds drawn by Potter. Attendance there jumped 6.1 percent, also to 5.9 million.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and enthusiasm our guests have shown for everything Universal Orlando has to offer," Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said in response to the report. "We are also grateful for our team members, who have worked so hard to make sure our guests have an amazing experience while they visit us."

If you’re considering a theme park visit this summer, consider Universal Orlando or Islands of Adventure. You won’t be disappointed and now you won’t get lost with your Universal app!

Walt Disney World Resorts Offer Cars Inspired Attractions

2011-06-23T16:26:19-04:00

In honor of Disney/Pixar’s newest film “Cars 2” Walt Disney World wants you to switch gears and enjoy some of the theme park’s “car” inspired rides. Here’s a list of how you can get behind the driver’s seat:

"Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show" -- This fast-paced show takes Disney's Hollywood Studios guests behind the scenes of big-budget movies to spotlight the high-octane best of the movie industry's stunt masters -- including precision driving, edge-of-your-seat jumps, pyrotechnics, high-speed spins and plenty of surprises. The extravaganza sends cars, motorcycles and watercraft careening and jumping across an enormous, 177,000-square-foot outdoor stunt arena themed as a Mediterranean village movie set. Joining the cast later this summer is Lightning McQueen, the star of “Cars” and “Cars 2.”

Take the Wheel, For Real, at the Richard Petty Driving Experience The Richard Petty Driving Experience features a choice of daily ride-along and driving programs in cars with about 600 horses under the hood. Plenty of celebrities -- from NASCAR champions Rusty Wallace and Tony Stewart to swimmer Michael Phelps to actors John Travolta and Leonardo di Caprio-- have joined in the fun at Walt Disney World Speedway.

Feel the Need for Speed (at 7.5 miles per hour) -- It may not be the fastest ride at Walt Disney World Resort, but Tomorrowland Speedway lets young hopefuls and seasoned veterans take turns around the Magic Kingdom's half-mile track at a whopping 7.5 miles per hour. Tomorrowland Speedway welcomes drivers and riders (adults and children) to replicas of landmarks made famous by Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including the famed Yard of Bricks and Gasoline Alley.

Test Track -- Sponsored by General Motors, this high-speed thrill attraction in Epcot invites guests to buckle up and brace themselves for a series of automobile tests. It's the fastest ride at Walt Disney World Resort and is modeled after real-world, GM automobile proving grounds. The testing schedule includes an engine-roaring, three-story ascent, a wildly out-of-control skid and a high-intensity speed loop pushing 65 miles per hour around the massive testing facility.

Just Eat in the Car, Under the Stars -- Cars and film combine at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, a drive-in movie-inspired eatery inside the Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. Diners sit in vintage-style cars as fiber-optic stars twinkle overhead. The theater's movie screen shows outrageous sci-fi movie clips.

Speed Thrills on Car-Themed Coaster -- A wild, stretch limousine ride through the Hollywood Hills provides guests high-speed thrills aboard Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, an indoor roller coaster in Disney's Hollywood Studios. This one-of-a-kind coaster features a high-speed launch (0 to approximately 60 mph in 2.8 seconds), three inversions, rock-concert lighting and a customized Aerosmith soundtrack.

SeaWorld Releases Green Sea Turtles Back Into Native Waters

2011-06-27T16:16:49-04:00

On Wednesday, SeaWorld’s animal rescue team released three green sea turtles back into the waters of Florida’s east coast. The SeaWorld team rehabilitated all three turtles.

The first turtle to be released – a 20 inch turtle – was brought to SeaWorld’s rehabilitation facility in January with pneumonia. The Park’s turtle specialists gave the female green sea turtle around-the-clock care. She was released in Eddy Creek, and the aquarium team has full confidence she will do just fine back in the wild.

Also released, was a sea turtle that was brought to SeaWorld for a shell infection and barnacles. After removing the barnacles, the aquarium team nursed the young turtle’s shell back to health. SeaWorld turtle specialists are optimistic about the turtles release back into Cape Canaveral.

SeaWorld rescued the third green sea turtle released in December 2010 for fish line ingestion, which is a common injury for sea turtles. SeaWorld’s care team nursed this turtle back to health by removing the line and monitoring the turtle’s weight until it reached a healthy point. The fastest of the three sea turtles took off into the waves when it was released, which aquarist’s say is a good sign.

“Today’s release went well, and we’re happy that the turtle’s are fully recovered and are safely back into their natural habitats,” said Dan Conklin, SeaWorld Orlando’s Supervisor of Aquarium on Wednesday.

SeaWorld began their sea turtle rescue program in 1980 and since then more than 1,530 sea turtles have been cared for by the park’s vets and sea turtle experts. Each was either rescued by the staff or brought to the park due to cold stress, injuries from nets, fishing line and hooks, ingestion of trash such as plastic bags, boat strikes, natural causes and oil contamination. SeaWorld’s success rate at caring for sea turtles with injuries is incredibly high: 68% of the sea turtles brought to SeaWorld in the past 30 years have been returned to the wild after hands-on care.

The news of the sea turtles release just happens to coincide with Friday’s launch of “Turtle: The Incredible Journey”, the first movie from SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment’s newly formed SeaWorld Pictures division.

The film is an award-winning documentary that chronicles the life and migration of a loggerhead turtle from hatching to maturity on a two-year adventure of more than 9,000 miles guided only by instinct. Academy Award nominee Miranda Richardson narrates the film.

For more of the Orlando theme park’s sea life you can get tickets to SeaWorld right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com for just $75.00 for adults and $67.00 for children.

Universal 360 Summer Entertainment

2011-07-06T15:49:17-04:00

Universal Orlando is amping up their summer entertainment this month with their yearly summer event - Universal 360°! The summertime party has been pleasing guests since June but below you’ll find a complete list of acts, attractions and shows the Orlando theme park has planned for the rest of summer:

Universal 360° – A Cinesphere Spectacular

Nightly through August 13

Cutting edge projection technology is combined with lasers and fireworks to bring the movies to life.

Street Breakz

Select times daily

Visit Hollywood Blvd. in USF for a hip hoppin’ beat droppin’ interactive performance that will make you bust a move!

Summer Fun at the Music Plaza

Select times daily

A live DJ and Stiltwalkers interact with guests at USF’s Music Plaza. Guests can join the fun with games, the limbo, and hula hoop contests

Mat Hoffman’s Aggro Circus

Shows daily through August 20

Watch top flight BMX bikers, inline skaters, skateboarders and moto-cross athletes performing amazing tricks and stunts in Toon Amphitheatre at IOA.

Star Toons Summer Jamz Show

Select times daily

Join in the fun at the KidZone stage in USF and soak up some sun as your favorite characters dance to the jams of summer!

Live Music throughout the Parks

Don’t miss the following daily music acts!

• The Sunset Sidemen – Lucy Plaza (USF)

• The Vinyls – Mel’s Drive-In (USF)

• Modern Mystic – Port Of Entry (IOA)

• World Beat Drummers – Jurassic Park (IOA

If you’re planning on visiting Universal Studios Orlando this summer make sure you check out these special shows! Most of them are here on a seasonal basis, so now’s your chance to see them!

And if you want to enjoy the entertainment of Universal 360° but you’re not sure where to get the best deal on tickets OrlandoFunTickets.com can help! Whether you plan on spending 1, 2, 3, or 4 days exploring all Universal Orlando has to offer OrlandoFunTickets.com has special deals on up to 4-days of Universal fun! If you want to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter along with Universal 360° you may want to check out Universal’s Select Park to Park tickets. With these tickets you can enjoy BOTH Universal parks in either 1, 2, or 7 day increments. Prices begin at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children on a 1-day pass.

For more ways to enjoy Orlando in the summer make sure you check out all of the theme parks and attractions OrlandoFunTickets.com has to offer. You’ll be amazed at the money you’ll save!

Two Orlando Dinner Theaters Update Shows

2011-07-07T14:54:55-04:00

Dinner theater fans are in for a treat as two of Orlando’s and Kissimmee’s best dinner shows get makeovers. Medieval Times and Pirates Dinner Adventure are currently in the process of creating BRAND NEW shows for their guests to enjoy!

According to the Orlando Sentinel Pirates Dinner Adventure is setting sail on a new course and has overhauled their show for the first time in its 15-year existence! The popular dinner-theater attraction has retained their swashbuckling elements but changed the storyline and incorporated modern references – including a Justin Bieber joke – into the new show they call “The Curse of Poseidon’s Treasure.”

Medieval Times is also making some big changes in all nine of its locations, including the one in Kissimmee. Leigh Cordner, creative director for Medieval Times, expects an entirely new production to first be seen in Dallas this fall. Orlando residents and visitors will be able to see the changes in late 2011 or early 2012.

In the meantime guests to Medieval Times can enjoy some minor changes to Kissimmee’s castle. Just a few months ago, "Medieval Times" signs were added on both the front and the side of the castle and cutouts of knights can be seen on the side towers of the castle.

Medieval Times of Kissimmee has also just released a new adventure to keep the young lords and ladies happy all summer long!

Beginning June 26, Medieval Times’ Orlando Castle will offer a free adventure-filled “Train to be a Knight” experience for children ages 5 to 12. This is a limited time offer with additional training dates available in July and August.

The experience features a hands-on weapons demonstration by the attraction's knights and a ceremony where participants are "knighted" by King Philippe before the dinner show.

Kids are issued wooden swords and then learn strikes and blocking maneuvers, creative director Leigh Cordner says.

"We liked the fact that it has a physical fitness element to it," he says. "We wanted to demonstrate to the kids the demands that the swordfights require."

It's the first time that young people have been allowed on the combat floor, Cordner says.

"We've kind of broken down the wall where there's a relationship between the kids and the knights before the show," he says.

The knight training begins an hour before showtime. A dinner ticket is required, but there's no additional charge for the program. Closed-toe shoes are required to participate.

If you’re interested in experiencing Pirates Dinner Theater or Medieval Times as well as any other dinner show in Central Florida you can always find exclusive savings right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Busch Gardens Offers Hints to HowlOScream

2011-07-08T16:56:22-04:00

It’s close to four months away but already Orlando theme parks are gearing up for this Halloween’s annual festivities.

Universal Studios recently revealed a “Nobody Beats the house” theme and now, after months of speculation, Howl-O-Scream’s Facebook page has offered some more insight into what this year’s spooky Halloween event will be at Busch Gardens.

Earlier this year, they hinted at the possibility of zombies making an appearance at the yearly October event. Now, one of their recent pictures posted to celebrate the 4th of July helps confirm that rumor. The image is of a zombie Uncle Sam with the print reading “I Want Your Brains”

Today, Busch Gardens offered another big hint that may indicate we will see Edgar Allan Poe:

“Sorry for the delay, folks – Insider had some previous engagements this morning! But I see you hit our 44m Fan goal, so I owe you a hint. And here it is: zombies at BGT is only *half* the story. And you’re going to get another big chunk ‘o info NEXT WEEK.”

“THIS JUST IN! I just found out what one of the *new* haunted houses is for 2011, and it’s going to be absolutely off the hook. Picture an experience inspired by some of the most psychologically thrilling stories of all time… a terrifying journey ripped from the pages of THE master of gothic horror. For true terror fans, it just doesn’t GET anymore Halloween than that!!”

Some of Poe’s infamous pieces of work include; “The Raven”, “The Fall of the House of Usher”, “The Pit and the Pendulum”, and “The Tell-Tale Heart”.

A majority of Howl-O-Scream fans on Facebook guessed that the hint implied Edgar Allen Poe, to which Busch Gardens replied:

“A couple of you have the right idea! Where’s Annabel Lee when you need her for a tiebreaker?”

Annabel Lee was Poe’s final poem, and explores the theme of the death of a beautiful woman.

Howl-O-Scream is expected to finally reveal the full details and line-up for this year’s event in August.

In the meantime, you can enjoy the rest of your summer riding Busch Gardens’ thrilling roller coasters, including their newest Cheetah Hunt that takes you on a speedy ride of up to 60 miles per hour! And don’t forget to check out Cheetah Hunt’s accompanying Cheetah Run, where you’ll get the chance to watch real life cheetahs roam. OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Busch Gardens tickets for just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children and with prices like that there’s no reason not to make the trip to Tampa this summer!

Universal Gears Up For Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part 2

2011-07-11T14:58:31-04:00

In just a few days the final chapter in the Harry Potter series comes to a close and Harry Potter fans and Universal Orlando are celebrating the event with a midnight showing of the newest film.

Universal has recently announced that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part 2 will be shown on all 20 screens, including the IMAX theater, at the AMC Universal Cineplex 20 in CityWalk at midnight on July 15. The theater will also have a 3:15 a.m. IMAX showing.

While several other Central Florida theaters will host midnight showings, the CityWalk Theater is also offering a double feature starting at 9 p.m. on July 14 of both Part 1, which was released last year, and the new Part 2.

To get the full Potter effect make sure you tour the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure and enjoy some butterbeer, quiddish and black magic until showtime!

If you plan on making it a Harry Potter weekend you can always find Islands of Adventure or Universal Orlando tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Guests can get their fill of Harry Potter and all of the other roller coasters, rides and attractions Islands of Adventure has to offer in the form of 1-, 2-, 3- or 4-day tickets! If you’re interested in spending your summer at this Orlando theme park tickets start at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children.

In addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, tickets to Islands of Adventure will let you explore the park’s most popular roller coasters including The Incredible Hulk, Dragon Challenge and Doctor Doom’s Fearfall. You’ll even be able to cool off on Islands of Adventure’s many water rides like Jurassic Park River Adventure, Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges and Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls.

And if you have a few days to play in Orlando you might as well check out Universal Studios as well! Purchase a 1-, 2- or 7-day Park to Park ticket and spend your weekend enjoying BOTH Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure! You’ll pay just $118.00 for a 1-day Park-to-Park ticket for adults and just $110.00 for a 1-day park to Park ticket for children.

And while you’re there don’t forget to check out the final days of Universal’s Summer Concert Series! Drake is the final performer for the series and will take to the Universal Music Plaza stage on Saturday, July 16 at 9:00 p.m. The concert is included in your Universal Studios ticket so make sure you stop by for the performance.

Stay tuned for more upcoming Universal Studios events.

Busch Gardens to Host First Ever Grad Nite

2011-07-14T17:56:51-04:00

Florida seniors will still get the opportunity to celebrate their milestone at one of Central Florida’s most popular theme parks.

Busch Gardens announced yesterday that they will host a 12th-grade Grad Nite in April. It will be the first time the theme park has staged an event for high school seniors

The announcement comes a few months after Walt Disney World held its final Grad Nite, ending a decades old tradition of giving high school seniors exclusive access to the theme park after hours. On the heels of Walt Disney World’s announcement that this would be the last year they’d host the popular Grad Night, Busch Gardens announced yesterday seniors in 2012 could celebrate their milestone at the Tampa Bay theme park.

Busch Gardens will give seniors the opportunity to ride their newest roller coaster, Cheetah Hunt, in the dark and experience many of the theme park’s other exciting rides and attractions.

The park is expected to remain open after hours for graduating guests to enjoy live entertainment, world-class coasters in the dark and high-energy DJs. You can expect headline entertainment to be announced in the fall.

“Really it’s a chance for them just to own the park and celebrate for a night,” said Kelly Heckinger, a spokeswoman for the Tampa park. “We just opened Cheetah Hunt, so the experience of a brand-new coaster in the dark is something only students in Florida can get.”

Grad Nite will be held consecutive nights, April 27 and April 28. Admision is $54.99 per student plus tax.

In addition to senior Grad Nite Busch Gardens will also host their fourth annual 8th Grade Grad Nite on May 4, 2012. Admission for the event is only $43.99 and includes dinner and all of the excitement of Busch Gardens’ rides, DJs and entertainment, plus the theme parks newest thrill ride, Cheetah Hunt!

Keep in mind admission to 8th Grade Grade Nite and the all-new 12th Grade Grad Nite 2012 is limited, so make sure you reserve your spot early. Stay tuned for more details on Grad Nite 2012 as we get closer to the event.

If you can’t wait until 2012 to experience all of the rides and attractions Busch Gardens has to offer you can get your discounted Busch Gardens tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

For just $75 for adults and $68 for children you can take your family on an adventure through some of the country’s best roller coasters, animal exhibits and attractions. And with the rave reviews Busch Gardens’ newest roller coaster, Cheetah Hunt is already getting, it’s reason enough to spend your summer playing at this Tampa park!

Harry Potter watchers Get Surprise Trip to Wizarding World

2011-07-15T10:46:09-04:00

Harry Potter fans were treated to a trip to Universal Studios after watching the final installment of the series last night.

Universal Orlando gave moviegoers at CityWalk’s AMC Universal Cineplex special access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure. The surprise announcement was made after the film’s midnight showing. Guests were given a red carpet –style experience as they entered the park at 3 a.m. for a two-hour journey through the attraction.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part 2” is expected to be one of the highest selling Harry Potter films and it was apparent at last night’s sold out show that the film would put-up record breaking numbers.

Preliminary data from entertainment trade publication Variety show the film had already taken in over $90 million worldwide. This includes advanced ticket sales here in America. The film has also broken records in several countries already, including Australia, Italy and Sweden.

Prior to the film fans gathered for a Harry Potter convention called LeakyCon at Universal to commemorate the film’s opening. The convention brought together more than 3,000 dedicated fans from around the world for Q&As with the film’s stars, book discussions, games, screening of homemade Potter-inspired movies and a showcase of Wizard Rock bands.

On Thursday fans dressed as characters from the films and books flocked to theme events, but the most anticipated event as the release of the final film in the series. And for many at the convention, the final film was a closing chapter in their lives.

“I’m going to be sad when it’s over,” said Megan McCraw of Tallahassee. McCraw planned to see the movie with her mom, Cherie, who said the end of the film series means that her daughter is growing up: “She’s not a kid anymore.”

Now that “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part 2” is finally out in theaters guests can expect the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to really heat up. And if you want to get in on the Harry Potter action make sure to look for discounted Islands of Adventure tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

For a single trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter check out Islands of Adventure’s 1-Day Base Ticket for just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children. Or choose from 2-, 3-, or 4-day Base Tickets. If you’d like the complete Universal experience look for the Universal Park to Park tickets. For just $118.00 for adults and $110.00 for children you and your family can ride the movies at Universal Studios AND enjoy all of the magic at Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day!

Forbidden Journey Ride in Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Get Makeover

2011-07-18T13:31:00-04:00

Believe it or not only a year after its grand opening Universal Studios Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure is about to get a makeover! The popular ride ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ will undergo a quick expansion to its queue. The plans cal for a new outdoor path to be constructed alongside Hogwart’s castle, attached to the existing queue, which will allow more guests to line up to the ride.

Since its debut in June 2010, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey has drawn large crowds of fans interested in being transported to the worlds created in the film series. A big appeal to the ride has been the queuing are, which snakes through a recreation of Hogwarts Castle. Now, especially after the release of the final film Harry Potter: The Deathly Hollows Part 2, Universal wants to offer even more room for the crowds to experience the ride.

Universal’s planning application states:

“The proposed pavement areas associated with this application will be used as an additional sidewalk/queue area on the east side of Building 245 to route and stage park guests waiting for access to the Building 245 attraction.”

“Building 245″ that the application from Universal Studios refers to is the show building for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

It’s not exactly clear what the path will be used for. The current path leading into Hogwarts castle allows riders to enter the regular standby line as well as a single rider line, when available. In the blueprints of the expanded queue the new path appears to join directly to the existing “greenhouse” area of the queue. Perhaps the path will act as an exit for those wishing to get out of line.

The eighth and final movie in the Harry Potter series has broken box office records during its first few days on release. Produced by Warner Bros, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 has made $475.6 million globally since its release on July 15.

Stay tuned for more details on the Forbidden Journey’s new queue. In the meantime make sure you spend the rest of your summer exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure. OrlandoFunTickets.com is currently offering exclusive savings on Islands of Adventure tickets starting at just $84.00! Come experience the attraction the nation’s been talking about and save on 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-day base tickets or play all day in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure with 1-, 2-, or 7-day Park to Park tickets! Universal’s Park-to-Park tickets start at just $118.00!

Universals Halloween Horror Nights to Feature The Thing Haunted House

2011-07-19T17:57:36-04:00

With just three months until Halloween Universal Studios begins the countdown to their annual Halloween event, Halloween Horror Nights. And with their planning comes news and clues on this year’s scary haunted houses and other events.

In a late announcement, Universal Studios Resort revealed the upcoming Hollywood version of “The Thing” will be featured as a haunted house in both coasts’ versions of Halloween Horror Nights.

Universal’s redo of the 1982 horror film is set to be released during the height of the annual Halloween scare fest on October 14 but Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando launches on September 23, giving attendees a sneak peek at the spooky film.

According to Variety, Universal theme park designers worked with the film’s producers to re-create the sets, score and characters from the movie for the Halloween attraction.

“We want people to live the film and experience the same terror that affects the film's characters," Eric Newman of Strike Entertainment said. "We’re excited for Halloween Horror Nights guests to experience ‘The Thing’ in this frighteningly real way.”

“Having recreated well known horror films in the past, the same level of attention to detail has gone into creating a house experience that will completely immerse guests into the storyline and environment of ‘The Thing,’" said Jim Timon, Senior Vice President of Entertainment at Universal Orlando.

An abandoned scientific research facility in the midst of a vast and frozen Antarctica will set the stage for “the Thing”. In the movie “The Thing” paranoia spreads among a group of researchers as they’re infected, one by one, by a mystery from another planet.

This isn’t the first time “The Thing” theme has haunted Halloween Horror Nights. In Orlando in 2007 there was a haunted house called “The Thing: Assimilation.”

This is the first announced haunted house of 2011 for the popular Halloween event. Earlier this month, the Orlando theme park launched a teaser website, with hints that the theme for the 21st year might revolve somehow around blackjack.

"Be careful what you wager, because nobody beats the house," the site said along with images of a severed hand playing the card game.

The full Halloween Horror Nights theme is expected to be revealed in August, with more details to emerge between now and then.

Halloween Horror Nights kicks off at Universal Resort on September 23. Stay tuned for more details to Halloween Horror Nights.

In the meantime you can always enjoy the thrill rides, shows and attractions at Universal Orlando with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Tickets start at just $84.00! for a one-day trip to the Orlando theme park.

Rumored Changes to Come to SeaWorld in 2012 2013

2011-07-21T15:08:30-04:00

Rumors are swirling about some new additions coming to SeaWorld Orlando in 2012 and 2013. Orlando’s aquatic based theme park is really amping up their game lately with the release of their first film “Turtle: The Incredible Journey” and now it seems they have even more plans for the coming years. Here’s what you can look forward to:

2012 – Turtles 4D & Happy Harbor Water Fortress – Rumor has it construction has already begun behind the current Manatee attraction area for SeaWorld’s 2012 attraction, which is said to be Turtles 4D, a edited down in-ark 4D theater version of this summer’s “Turtle: The Incredible Journey” film.

The current Manatee attraction is expected to be revamped into a Florida wildlife themed area and serve as home to alligators, turtles, manatees and other local species.

In addition to Turtles 4D, improvements are to come to Happy Harbor, as well as the large fake ship will be removed and replaced with a new Water Fortress style attraction.

But perhaps the most exciting new SeaWorld addition is set to come in 2013 in the form of a dark ride. Rumor has it the entire Penguin Plaza area is slated to be removed sometime in early 2012 to make room for a major dark ride attraction. It’s been said that SeaWorld was eyeballed for a bunch of different dark ride concept ideas following the introduction of Curse of DarKastle at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Curse of DarKastle is a haunted European castle full of ghosts, werewolves, and other creatures in the night.

And for those penguins that will be removed a brand new and improved home for them will be built as part of the massive 2013 project.

But you don’t have to wait until next year to enjoy all of the sea life, rides and attractions SeaWorld has to offer. OrlandoFunTickets.com is currently offering exclusive savings on adult and children admission to the theme park. For just $75.00 for adults and $67.00 for children the whole family can spend the day riding Kraken, watching SeaWorld’s newest show “One Ocean” or seeing the park’s signature killer whale, Shamu. And don’t forget to check out SeaWorld’s annual summer extravaganza, Summer Nights now through August 14th.

Make sure you check out SeaWorld’s sister park’s including Aquatica and Busch Gardens in Tampa. In fact, OrlandoFuntickets.com also offers a combo ticket to both SeaWorld and Aquatica for just $110.00 for adults and $105.00 for children. Busch Gardens tickets begin at $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children.

Make sure you check back for more details on SeaWorld’s upcoming changes. As soon as we know more we’ll let you know!

New Additions for Disneys 16th Annual Food Wine Festival

2011-07-28T11:33:12-04:00

The 16th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is expanding its menu this year to include tastes of Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Beginning September 30 – November 13, guests to the annual foodie event will take an incredible adventure through international cuisine, culture and entertainment from six continents, with more than 25 international marketplaces featuring tapas-sized portions paired with beer, wine and new cocktails.

This year, guests can tantilize their tastebuds with even more tasting menus as they stroll through the 40-acre World Showcase Lagoon. For the first time the Food & Wine festival will take guests on a tropical adventure to Hawaii where they’ll be able to indulge in Kalua pork sliders and tuna poke with seaweed salad and lotus root chips. Wash it all down with a refreshing Seven Tiki Mai Tai or a Kona Longboard or Pipeline beer and you just might forget you’re in Orlando!

To continue your tropical tastings head over to the Caribbean Islands marketplace and satisfy your cravings with ropa vieja with rice and jerk-spiced chicken with mango salsa. Sip on a frozen Dragon Berry Colada or a frozen Rock Coconut Mojito and sway to the steel-drum beats of the islands.

Then it’s off to Portugal, where you’ll sip on Portugal wine and taste calamari salad with olives and smoked paprika. And returning after a hiatus is the Scandinavia Marketplace, which will serve up a fresh new Xante Sunshine cocktail made from Xante pear and cognac liquer! And the Canada marketplace will introduce apple ice wine.

Along with the new tasting marketplaces and new menu offerings Disney and celebrity chefs will team up with winemakers and brew masters from around the world! Celebrity guests include, Jeff Henderson, Cat Cora, Alan Wong, Gale Gand, Suvir Saran, Jamie Deen, Rock Harper, Celina Tio, Robert Irvine, Andrew Zimmerman, Buddy Valastro, Warren Brown, Art Smith, Keegan Gerhard and more!

And what’s a festival without entertainment? The 16th Epcot food & Wine Festival will also feature live daily entertainment from around the world including music, acrobatics and improv performances! Evening Eat to the Beat! concerts at America Gardens Theatre will feature for the first time The Pointer Sisters, The Orchestra starring former members of ELO and Gin Blossoms. Plus, fan favorite Taylor Dayne, who kicks off the festival Sept. 30-Oct. 2, and crowd pleaser Big Bad Voodoo Daddy wraps the event Nov. 11-13.

There will also be special culinary programs for those wishing to boost their culinary IQ.

Please note Authentic Taste seminars and Authors Without Borders programs with special book signings at the Festival Center, Eat to the Beat! concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

Disney Worlds Enchanted Tiki Room to Get Makeover

2011-08-03T09:23:49-04:00

Walt Disney World® announced Tuesday that the popular Tiki Room at the Magic Kingdom® Park will reopen August 15.

The Enchanted Tiki Room (Under New Management), has been closed since January after a fire in the attraction’s attic, but is already undergoing changes that will reshape the attraction, giving guests even more to chirp about!

Disney said after the fire that the attraction would be getting a makeover that makes it "reminiscent of the original show."

The Walt Disney World attraction, originally called Tropical Serenade, has been entertaining audiences since the theme park’s opening day on October 1, 1971.

The Sunshine Pavilion, featuring a show variously known as “Tropical Serenade” and “The Enchanted Tiki Birds,” debuted on Oct. 1, 1971. In 1998, following substantial refurbishment, it re-launched as The Enchanted Tiki Room-Under New Management, with two famous Disney birds – Iago from Aladdin and Zazu from The Lion King – taking control and trying to spruce up the show. But not all park guests liked the addition of Iago and Zazu.

“Are Iago and Zazu taking on a smaller part? I certainly hope so!" one Disney fan commented on the news on the park's blog.

Now the “new management” will be let go and Jose, Fritz, Michael and Pierre – four crooning parrot hosts, will lead 200 other birds, tikis and flowers in an entertaining musical Polynesian revue, as they have been at Disneyland since 1963 in The Enchanted Tiki Room. Walt Disney World’s Enchanted Tiki Room is being prepared for the premiere of a show that will pay tribute to the Disneyland original.

The debut of Disneyland’s Enchanted Tiki Room marked a huge milestone in Disney history, becoming the first attraction to ever feature Audio-Animatronics figures – a breakthrough that took ten years to develop.

And now the Orlando theme park is taking the technology one step further. Disney said the updated attraction will include a new show-control system, remastered audio and a new versatile and energy efficient lighting system.

Make sure you get to Disney’s Magic Kingdom® Park on August 15th to see the new Enchanted Tiki Room show! And remember only OrlandoFunTickets.com can offer exclusive savings on Walt Disney World® tickets! For just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children you and your family can enjoy a 3-day final summer outing to all four Walt Disney World® parks!

Or throw in a little water to your final summer vacation and get the Disney Magic Your Way® Water Park Fun and More Tickets! For only $282.58 for adults and $264.74 for children you can spend 3-days soaking up the sun at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon or Disney's Blizzard Beach and all of Disney’s four parks!

Halloween Horror Nights Do You Feel Lucky

2011-08-03T15:18:08-04:00

Is Lady Luck making an appearance at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Orlando? Perhaps! This year’s theme, “Nobody Beats the House” indicates that the event will somehow incorporate gambling into its annual scare fest. And for days now Universal has been dropping taglines on the official Halloween Horror Nights website and press releases such as “Be careful what you wager,” “To wait for luck is the same as waiting for death,” “Are you waiting for luck,” “Luck will run out.” The website offers a full gambling theme with imagery of severed hands holding playing cards. But beyond that we don’t really know the details.

The Orlando theme park is also claiming that the 21st year of Halloween Horror Nights will be the scariest yet! Could that even be possible after last year’s 20th anniversary “Fear” theme? It could be and it probably is. Universal has a way of continuing to successfully top itself year after year!

One thing we do know is that one of Halloween Horror Nights haunted houses will be based off the upcoming film “The Thing.” The house will be based on an abandoned scientific research facility in the midst of a vast and frozen Antartica. In the thriller “The thing,” paranoia spreads among a group of researchers as they’re infected, one by one, by a mystery from another planet.

In this new haunted house, guests will get a first-hand preview of the anticipated thriller in advance of its October 14 release. Haunted house enthusiasts will find themselves in a series of face-to-face encounters with “The Thing,” an alien creature that can transform itself into an exact replica of any living being. “The Thing” haunted house will recreate the suspenseful film, confronting guests with the paranoia and fear that comes from being trapped inside the film’s Antarctic Thule station.

Inside “The Thing” haunted house, guests will experience elaborately designed and disturbingly real alien creatures and sets. Universal has partnered with the film’s producers, Strike Entertainment’s Marc Abraham and Eric Newman to create an experience that is authentic to the film. The sets, audio, musical score, creature and character references are all based on the film.

It looks like “The Thing” haunted house is just one of 8 haunted houses. Based on the permits for buildings it looks like Halloween Horror Nights will feature 8 haunted houses and 6 scarezones, although this information is unconfirmed.

Halloween Horror Nights returns to Universal Orlando September 23rd and continues on select nights through October 31st.

Stay tuned for more details on Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 21st event. If you’re planning a trip to Universal before September you can always get discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Halloween Horror Nights Wants Visitors to Take a Chance

2011-08-08T15:47:44-04:00

More details have emerged about Universal Orlando’s upcoming Halloween Horror Nights. The Orlando theme park recently updated their website with a new section called “Take a Chance.” The addition allows visitors to press their luck and play games for tokens. The ultimate goal is to build up a “House of Cards.” All clues and details tie-in to this year’s Halloween Horror Nights theme of “Because Nobody Beats The House.”

The games start you off with 90 tokens and you are then presented with 3 cards, and must choose one to move on to the next part of the game. Each round of chance will cost you 30 tokens, so play carefully!

The website currently only offers guests two games to play. The first takes you to a cemetery, where you must choose a tombstone out of a possible 3. If you choose correctly, the snow melts off the tombstone, revealing a name, “Lady Elizabeth Hawthorn.” If you’ve been keeping up with the Halloween Horror Nights clues a “Lady Luck” keeps popping up on Halloween Horror Nights websites. Could this “Lady Elizabeth Hawthorn” be the mysterious “Lady Luck?”

After the snow melts, you will be taken to a row of 3 crypts. The goal is to match 3 of the 5 Skeleton Keys with the correct crypt. If you choose incorrectly 3 times, you lose and are taken back to the dealer.

The second game takes you to a telephone, where you must choose the correct line to “pick up.” If correct, you will then be taken to a room where 9 TV’s are located. 6 are working, while 3 are experiencing “Technical Difficulties.” The object of the game is to choose the 6 working televisions before choosing the 3 that aren’t. If you choose the 3 that aren’t working, you lose!

These games leave you wanting more, especially since the site bans you from entering without allowing you to continue for one hour if you lose all of your tokens!

Stay tuned for more details on this year’s Halloween Horror Nights. The event is only 46 days away, which means more news and information about the theme is sure to be released soon.

In the meantime, you can always enjoy the thrills of Universal Studios with discounted tickets to the theme park right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! For just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children, you and your family can spend a day exploring Orlando’s only movie based theme park! Or spend the day going between Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure with the Universal Orlando Park-to-Park ticket. Whichever way you decide to spend your day make sure you use OrlandoFunTickets.com for discounted tickets.

Walt Disney World Prepares for the Holidays

2011-08-09T15:48:43-04:00

It’s not even Halloween yet, and it’s already beginning to look a lot like Christmas at one of Orlando’s mot popular theme parks. Walt Disney World® in Orlando is beginning their preparations for a seasonal spectacle filled with heartwarming stage productions, enchanting parades, millions of sparkling lights and even snow flakes!

Here’s what guests can expect to find at this year’s magical holiday extravaganza:

It’s a ho, ho, ho lot of fun at Magic Kingdom® Park this year as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas delights its guests with tons of holiday cheer! On 19 special nights beginning in November, you and the family can sip cocoa, catch snowflakes and enjoy shows, fireworks, carolers and special character meet and greets!

This season Cinderella Castle will also get a holiday touch-up with thousands of shimmering lights during a ceremonial show performed at dusk. Beginning Nov. 8 and continuing through Jan. 3, Cinderella and favorite Disney characters decked out in festive holiday garb magically transform Cinderella Castle into an ice palace draped with 200,000 ice cycle-white lights!

Over at Epcot® guests can enjoy an inspirational retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra. Each evening Nov. 26 – Dec. 30, a celebrity narrator takes to America Gardens Theater Stage and share’s the story.

The World Showcase in Epcot® also offers up some holiday magic with international storytellers share traditions and tales from their homeland. There will also be meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Clause in the American Adventure, plus other legendary icons. The celebrations of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are celebrated as well.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park jingles with excitement wit Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade. Beginning Nov. 8 to Jan. 4, 2012, King Louie and Baloo lead a rousing musical cavalcade – safari style through the park. Guests will feel the wild side of Animal Kingdom mixed with a playful spirit of the holidays as Chip & Dale, stilt walkers and savannah friends dance alongside decorative floats at 4 p.m. daily.

Santa Goofy’s Holiday Village at Camp Minnie-Mickey has decked the halls with festive décor including a perfectly trimmed Christmas tree adorned with animal crafted ornaments. Carolers will also be spreading holiday cheer throughout the park. Santa Goofy and friends will also greet guests for photo opportunities.

Even Downtown Disney® is celebrating the season with dozens of shops that stretch from the Marketplace to the West Side that will be offering plenty of toys, games, character merchandise, and costumes to fill Santa’s sleigh.

School choirs and bands often perform at the dock stage to ring in the season. Kids can pose for photographs and sit with Santa beginning Nov. 19 – Dec. 24.

Universal Orlando Sets 12Month Attendance Record

2011-08-10T17:21:10-04:00

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter continued to draw in thousands of fans to Universal Orlando this spring, as resort attendance leapt 41 percent from last year.

An astonishing 3.6 million people have visited Universal Orlando’s two theme parks during the second quarter of the year, an increase of more than 1 million from the same period in 2010.

This has been the busiest 12 months in the history of Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Guests are flocking to the Orlando theme park to experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which boasts $265 million in rides, shops and eateries based on the magical universe created by author J.K Rowling.

The attraction opened in June 2010 and since then almost 13.4 million people have visited Harry Potter’s world, according to regulatory filings.

A spokesman for Universal Orlando declined to comment Monday. But executives at parent company Comcast Corp. praised the resort during a conference call last week to discuss the cable-TV company's second-quarter earnings.

"We are very pleased with the park's performance," Comcast Chief Financial Officer Michael Angelakis told analysts.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is also be the reason Universal saw record sales during the second quarter, as travelers paid higher prices to get into its parks and bought magic wands, butter beer and other Harry Potter merchandise. Resort revenue jumped 61 percent for the quarter, from $243.5 million to $392.2 million.

Universal gained in every category of spending, regulatory filings show. Ticket revenue rose 57.5 percent, food and beverage sales jumped 53 percent, and merchandise revenue soared a whopping 82 percent!

The resort’s total profit for the quarter was $97.8 million, up from just $2.8 million a year ago and the increases doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon!

The Orlando theme park, which announced in May plans to convert an existing simulator ride into a new attraction based on the animated film “Despicable Me,” bumped up its capital budget for the year. Universal now estimates it will spend $100 million on improvements in 2011, up from an earlier estimate of $80 million.

If you haven’t yet visited the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure and want to see the attraction that’s breaking all of these records OrlandoFunTickets.com is the place for discounted Universal tickets. For just $118.00 for adults and $110.00 for children guests can enjoy a full day of both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. If you’d just like to spend the entire day exploring Universal’s most popular attraction a 1-day base ticket might be the better option. Whichever you choose, make sure you book through OrlandoFunTickets.com for the best rates possible.

Busch Gardens Reveals Faces for 2011 HowlOScream Zombie Garden Theme

2011-08-12T10:07:39-04:00

With Halloween season rapidly approaching, Orlando theme parks are kicking their spooky efforts into high gear with plenty of teasers, clues and photos. And Busch Gardens in Tampa is no different as the roller coaster-based theme park recently revealed on their website a look at what guests can expect to find at Howl-O-Scream 2011.

The pictures include an eye-ball infested garden featuring a decrepit woman, looking less than excited that someone is trespassing. The tagline reads, “The beauty is here, but it’s not alone. The garden’s secrets once hidden, will soon be known.”

It’s been said that Howl-O-Scream 2011 will not have one “icon” character representing the whole event, but if they were to this woman would be the perfect icon seeing as she does appear to be the face of the website, appearing on both the Tampa and Williamsburg versions of the event sites.

For the first time in Howl-O-Scream history, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Williamsburg will offer the same theme for the event. The “The Dark Side of the Gardens” theme was revealed about a month ago and will include zombies in some capacity.

Along with zombies, Howl-O-Scream 2011 will also take guests to the shadier side of Las Vegas. Busch Gardens Facebook page recently said, “There is a dark, seedy side there that I think is absolutely real-life terrifying!”, continuing, “more specifically, a casino that sucks your blood AND your money…”

For a few years, Howl-O-Scream has featured a haunted house called Taste of Blood, featuring vampires. This haunted house has been changed around several times with new elements to fit each year’s theme, so it’s possible that the Las Vegas twist is the latest addition. Or it could be a completely new house!

Famous macabre poet Edgar Allen Poe is even rumored to be making an appearance at this year’s spooky event. A hint on Busch Garden’s website referenced Annabel Lee, which just happened to be Poe’s final poem. And with another of Poe’s famous poems “The Raven” currently being made into a movie, it’s a timely addition to the Halloween event as well.

And lastly, the popular “Alone” haunted house from last year’s event is rumored to be back, in some form, in 2011. What that form will be remains to be seen!

Beyond the Edgar Allen Poe-based house, the Las Vegas vampire haunted house and the return of an “Alone” –style house, the specifics of the event are still a mystery. But with the horror beginning on September 23, Busch Gardens is expected to reveal the full details very soon!

Stay tuned for complete details on Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream 2011. It’s sure to be a real scream!

Universal Orlando Ready to Rock the Universe

2011-08-12T16:20:45-04:00

Universal Orlando fans get ready to be rocked when Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, Rock the Universe, hits the Orlando theme park on September 9 and 10. Guests to the annual music event will enjoy a faith-filled weekend featuring performances by 17 hit artists, an all-new fan zone, inspiring guest speakers, nightly candlelighting ceremonies, and of course access to Universal’s many rides, show and attractions.

This year’s impressive lineup features a combined total of 71 Dove award winners and 39 No. 1 singles. More than a dozen hit bands will take the stage including Switchfoot – who was named “Best Christian Band” by the 2009 Top in Rock awards; Grammy award-winning group and Daytona Beach natives Casting Crowns; rock group Relient K who have sold more than two million albums; and Third Day who have topped the Christian music charts with 14 No. 1 singles. Here is the complete Rock the Universe lineup:

Friday, September 9

Switchfoot, David Crowder Band, Anberlin, Grits, Family Force 5, Rhema Soul, Hyland

Saturday. September 10

Casting Crowns, Third Day, Relient K, RED, Tenth Avenue North, Brandon Heath, Live Fish

In honor of the 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, this year’s Rock the Universe event features guest speakers who survived the attacks. Retired Navy Captain Tom Joyce, who survived the attack on the Pentagon and Sujo John, who worked on the 81st Floor of the North Tower in New York City, will share their inspirational and heroic stories about how their faith helped guide them through that tragic time.

In addition, guests will also get to experience an all-new fan zone, featuring autograph sessions with performing acts, band merchandise, and a first-ever New Artists’ Stage where they can listen to live performances by three emerging artists: former American Idol contestant Jason Castro, for King & Country and Dara Maclean.

But perhaps the best part about the 2011 Rock the Universe event is the ability to rock out to your favorite Christian band while riding one of Universal’s many thrilling rides! Get your own mini Aerosmith concert at speeds of 65 mph on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, laugh along with Bart on The Simpsons Ride and speed through the darkness on the world’s irst psychological thriller ride on Revenge of the Mummy.

Keep in mind Rock the Universe is a separate ticket than regular admission to the park but if you just want to spend the day exploring the park OrlandoFunTickets.com offers several ticket options for admission to Universal Orlando. For just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children you can enjoy one day in either Universal or Islands of Adventure! For more Universal tickets just click “Discounted Universal Tickets” right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Disneys Enchanted Tiki Room Reopens

2011-08-15T14:55:37-04:00

After months of closure and years of “Under New Management,” Walt Disney World’s® Enchanted Tiki Room has finally reopened! The Adventureland® attraction officially reopens today, but guests enjoyed a soft opening throughout yesterday afternoon to witness and experience an enhanced version of the classic Disney theme park show. LED lighting and enhanced show and audio systems bring new life to the Enchanted Tiki Room.

The newest updates to the show closely resemble the current Disneyland version, which is most similar to the original Tropical Serenade attraction. The Walt Disney World® adaptation is a bit shorter, however, and has replaced the colorful fountain in the center of the room with a giant fogging block of carved wood. But other than a few changes in dialogue, the newest version of the Enchanted Tiki Room performance still offers guests plenty of singing birds and flowers!

But not everything is the same in the newest rendition, there are a few surprises guests are sure to love! After listening to complaints about the Enchanted Tiki Room’s lago and Zazu, Disney removed the Lion King characters, returning the attraction back to its classic form, and guests seemed to love the change, as they poured inside the theater yesterday. Rumor has it the show will continue to receive tweaks in lighting and sound levels over the next week or two.

If you loved the Enchanted Tiki Room before, you’re sure to love the high-tech changes now! And if news of theses changes has you looking for tickets to the Orlando theme park, look no more! OrlandoFunTickets.com is now offering 3-day Disney Magic Your Way® Base Tickets, which allows you 3 days of admission to all four of Walt Disney World’s® Theme Parks, including Magic Kingdom® Park, for just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children!

For the option to see the new Enchanted Tiki Room at Magic Kingdom® Park and all of the magic of the other Disney parks all in the same day, check out the Magic Your Way® Park Hopper® Tickets. For just $229.00 for adults and $217.00 for children, you and the family can spend 2 days hopping from one park to another!

And to beat this August heat try the Magic Your Way® Water Park Fun and More ticket. Enjoy Disney’s famed water parks, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Disney's Blizzard Beach as well as Disney Quest®, Pleasure Island nightclubs and Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex® for just $282.58 for adults and $264.74 for children.

For all of your Orlando theme park tickets and attractions make sure you look right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

HowlOScream 2011 Haunted Houses Revealed

2011-08-17T13:04:05-04:00

In the latest Howl-O-Scream 2011 news, it was revealed that the Busch Gardens’ annual Halloween event will feature seven haunted houses, including three new mazes. But it wasn’t Busch Gardens that let the news slip of their haunted houses. The AAA Auto Club South web site revealed the names for the six houses to be featured in this year’s event.

The three new houses haunting guests this year include: Ultimate Gamble: Vampire Casino, Nevermore and Zombie Mortuary. Returning favorites include Alone, Nightshade Toy Factory, Death Row Vengeance: Fear the Dead, Deconstruction: The Doctor is Out of Control.

Ultimate Gamble: Vampire Casino is the house Busch Gardens hinted about months ago. The vampire-infested house will pair the blood sucking dead with a Las Vegas setting. (Not to be confused with Universal Orlando’s “chance” and “luck” theme at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights). Also hinted at months ago is the now-named Nevermore house. Inspired by the macabre poems of Edgar Allan Poe, Nevermore is sure to be a real bone-chiller! And lastly, zombies appear to be taking over in a new house called Zombie Mortuary and possibly in the returning house Death Row Vengeance, with the new subtitle “Fear the Dead.” The popular “Alone” house will also be returning to Howl-O-Scream 2011, but we’re not quite sure in what form yet. Stay tuned for more details on that.

If you can’t wait until September 23 (when Howl-O-Scream officially begins) you can always get your tickets to Busch Gardens right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

And if you’re curious as to what the other Orlando theme parks are doing this Halloween you just might have to wait a few more weeks! While Universal Orlando is dropping hints left and right on their website about this year’s event, they aren’t disclosing the full details until sometime in September. Hopefully it will be early September as Universal Orlando wants you to “take a chance” and test your “luck” at Halloween Horror Nights 21 beginning on September 30.

Walt Disney World® is hosting a less gory and more kid-friendly Halloween event that the whole family can enjoy. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will begin September 13 at Magic Kingdom® Park. Disney encourages guests of all ages to dress up in their best non-scary Halloween costumes and enjoy trick-or-treating throughout Magic Kingdom® Theme Park. In addition to trick-or-treating, guests can enjoy Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade which includes Disney characters and the stars of the Haunted attraction; Happy HalloWishes – a spectacular fireworks show where the Disney villains go trick-or-treating in the sky; and special lighting, music and theming effects throughout the park.

Stay tuned for more details on all Orlando theme park Halloween events.

Disneys Animal Kingdom Welcomes Abyssinian Chick

2011-08-18T11:05:49-04:00

Walt Disney World’s® Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park has just expanded their animal offerings as they welcomed their very first Abyssinian ground hornbill chick to the Animal Kingdom Lodge yesterday.

Steve Metzler, Animal Operations Manager, reported the chick is doing great and mom is doing a wonderful job protecting and feeding it. The chick weighed 3.6 ounces at two days old. Its weight was checked as part of the chick’s neo-natal exam called “well-baby exams” Performed by veterinarians, the “well-baby exams” are used to assess the animals overall condition. Adult female Abyssinian ground hornbills typically weigh 7-9 pounds and males weigh 12-14 pounds. The sex of the new chick will not be known for several months.

Hornbills are referred to as “altricial” birds, meaning that when they hatch their eyes are closed, they are incapable of leaving the nest and are fed by their parents. Unlike other bird species, like chickens and ducks, hornbills will be cared for in the nest for several months.

Abyssinian ground hornbills typically live on the African savannas north of the equator and south of the Sahara Desert. They are active during the day, foraging and hunting, and usually roam in pairs or in groups of three or four when young birds are present. They are mostly carnivourous and walk the savannah using their bills to capture prey such as snakes and small mammals. Abyssinian ground hornbills rarely fly, preferring to walk or run when threatened, although they can fly and will if they need to.

The hornbill’s biggest threat in the wild is habitat loss. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Abyssinian ground hornbills recommends expanding the current population numbers in accredited facilities to improve the overall genetic health of the population. Here’s where Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park comes into play. The Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park Lodge is committed to breeding the species to contribute to the overall goals of SSP. Steve notes that this chick represents a great first step in contributing to our overall knowledge and experience with breeding this species.

The new chick and its mom are bonding in an off-show area, where the animal care team can closely monitor them. Over the next few months, the team hopes to introduce mom and chick back to dad, who is out on the Pembe savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, so all three will be on show together.

Stay tuned for more details on the Abyssinian ground hornbill chick’s condition and when you can see it in the show area. In the meantime, you can always enjoy the other animals Animal Kingdom has to offer with exclusive savings on Walt Disney World® tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Universal Announces Changes to Dragon Challenge

2011-08-19T12:13:41-04:00

Changes they are a coming … to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has already broken numerous attendance records and generated more revenue than any other attraction in the Orlando theme park in its short, one-year existence. And now, Universal’s newest attraction is making a few changes that are sure to make the Wizarding World of Harry Potter even more magical!

Over the next few months, Universal Orlando Resorts plans to release images of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to showcase some of the details you may have missed while in the themed park.

The images are said to highlight areas inspired by the Harry Potter books and films.

Universal describes the images as the "untold stories" of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The first image shows the hourglasses in Hogwarts Castle.

Featured in the Harry Potter films, the hourglasses record the points earned or lost by members of the four Hogwarts houses throughout the school year – scarlet represents Gryffindor, blue represents Ravenclaw, green represents Slytherin and yellow represents Hufflepuff.

Be on the lookout for more images as Universal unveils all of the details that inspired the books and films.

Guests to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter can also expect to see a few changes to one of Universal’s most popular roller coasters, Dragon Challenge. After a guest was injured on the coaster, park officials have decided that the twin coasters will no longer race each other on the rails.

Instead of launching the vehicles together so they come very close to each other, the vehicles will be set in motion alternately.

"As we continue to study these incidents, we will operate both coasters as separate experiences without their usual intersect points," Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said.

Many riders seem to be taking the news in stride.

"I don't think it makes a big deal, actually," visitor Kevin Schultz said.

Universal said more than 50 million people have ridden on the Dragon Challenge since it opened, without any problems.

Stay tuned for more details on when the changes to Dragon Challenge will be completed. In the meantime, you can always enjoy all of the other rides and shows at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! For just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children you can spend a day walking the streets of Hogsmeade, visiting Dumbledore’s office in Hogwarts Castle, soaring above the castle grounds on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and even learn the proper way to approach a Hippogriff and take a training flight on Flight of the Hippogriff

Royal Caribbean Expands Partnership with Universal Orlando

2011-08-23T17:38:15-04:00

Royal Caribbean and Universal Orlando have expanded a partnership to now offer cruise and theme park packages. Beginning in November, the two will offer a theme park visit with a cruise out of Tampa. The new option builds on a two-year existing arrangement that has included a Royal Caribbean cruise out of Port Canaveral, FL.

Universal appears to be rivaling competitor Walt Disney World®, who has been combining cruises and theme park visits for years. Last year the Miami-based cruise operator struck a separate deal with DreamWorks Animation to outfit some of its ships with characters from animated movies such as “Shrek” and “Madagascar,” much the way Celebration-based Disney Cruise Line features popular children’s characters as Buzz Lightyear and Donald Duck.

The new Royal Caribbean arrangement will combine three- or four-night stays at the Orlando theme park with a four- or five-night cruise on 2,500 passenger Jewel of the Seas, which will sail seasonally from Tampa. The existing options from Port Canaveral include a three- or four-night Bahamas cruise aboard Monarch of the Seas, and a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise aboard Freedom of the Seas.

Passengers who choose to stay in one of Universal’s three on-site hotels – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Hard Rock Hotel – will experience perks other guests who stay in off-park hotels won’t get to like Universal Express ride access, allowing them to skip regular lines at the parks. They will also get early admission to the very popular The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

The available packages include hotel and cruise, multi-day passes to Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure parks, and ground transfers between airport, hotel, theme parks and the ship at port.

If you’d rather skip the cruise and just spend your vacation exploring the rides, shows and attractions at Universal Orlando, OrlandoFunTickets.com can help you save money on your next visit!

For just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children, you can spend a day riding the movies at practicing your wizadry at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure! And if you’d like to take the day and go back and forth between parks you might consider Universal’s Park to Park Tickets. For just $118.00 for adults and $110.00 for children spend a jam-packed day taking in everything Universal Orlando has to offer! If you’re spending the weekend in Orlando make sure you check out OrlandoFunTickets’ multiple Universal and Islands of Adventure discounted tickets.

Busch Gardens Welcomes Baby Eland Antelope

2011-08-24T15:50:20-04:00

Busch Gardens’ newest member is settling into it’s new home on the theme park’s Serengeti Plain today. On Monday, a female eland calf was born weighing in at an astonishing 50 pounds! Eland are the largest of the antelope species, with adult females weighing around 1,000 lbs.

The female eland won’t have any trouble adapting: they can jump 8-10 feet straight up in the air from a standing position. Both males and females characteristically have thick, spiral horns, which can reach lengths of 3-4 feet.

The baby eland is the 11th antelope to invade Busch Gardens Serengeti Plains and is the second to be born this season. The other female calf, which was born just over a month ago o July 17, is already twice her size!

If you’re making a trip to Busch Gardens, you can see the baby eland and all of the other animals on the 65-acre free-roaming Serengeti Plain via the track’s train or by booking a Serengeti Safari experience.

The Serengeti Safari takes guest on a wild African getaway where you’ll get an up-close look at some of Africa’s most beautiful animals. Tour the 65-acres on an open-truck tour and get nose-to-nose with a giraffe, learn some fun facts about zebras, and encounter exotic species like Bongo and ostrich.

Keep in mind the Serengeti Safari is an additional ticket and is not included in the price of Busch Gardens’ admission. But the Serengeti Safari isn’t the only animal tour at the popular theme park that let’s you get a closer look at Africa’s magnificent animals.

Take a walk on the edge, of Africa that is in the Edge of Africa walking tour. Encounter exotic African animals in naturalistic habitats, including lions, hyenas, lemurs, meerkats, crocodiles and lappet-faced vultures. Or experience the speed of the wild’s fastest animal in Busch Gardens’ newest attraction, Cheetah Run.

Come face-to-face with one of the world’s most graceful predators in this unique exhibit. And after feeling the creature’s incredible speed on Busch Gardens’ new roller coaster, Cheetah Hunt, you can marvel at their beauty and maybe even watch them run at the accompanying Cheetah Run.

Whether you want to see Busch Garden’s newest member or ride the park’s fastest roller coaster, OrlandoFunTickets.com has discounted tickets to the Tampa Bay theme park! Tickets start at just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children.

And don’t forget to check out Busch Gardens’ 2011 Howl-O-Scream. It was recently revealed that this year’s theme is “The Dark Side of the Garden” and will feature seven haunted houses, including last year’s popular “Alone” house. The annual Halloween event begins September 23. Stay tuned for more details. It’s sure to be a real scream!

Disneys Animal Kingdom Welcomes Baby Elephant

2011-08-26T12:54:49-04:00

Walt Disney World’s® Animal Kingdom® Theme Park elephant family just got a little bigger with the birth of a baby calf. The 311-pound male African elephant was welcomed into the elephant group Friday by his mother Vasha, 10-herd members and a team of animal care professionals assisting the birth.

This is the second calf for the 25-year old mother, who gave birth to a female calf, Kianga, in 2004, and sixth offspring for the herd. Vasha gained more than 800 pounds during her 22-month gestation!

The new calf, which has not yet been named, is now successfully nursing from his mother and is already working on his first steps. Vasha has been getting to know her calf, gently touching the young animal with her trunk and keeping a watchful eye on him.

“The natural bonding between mother and calf is fascinating,” said Jackie Ogden, Ph.D., vice president of Disney’s Animal, Science and Environment Programs. “The team is encouraged by the early interaction between mother and calf and will continue to monitor them closely for the next several weeks.”

The calf will continue bonding with his mother who will teach him important lessons and protect him as he acclimates to the rest of the savannah herd over the next few weeks.

Vasha became pregnant by artificial insemination in October 2009. Since early August, animal care teams have provided round-the-clock monitoring, regular ultrasounds and daily hormone monitoring to more accurately predict the beginning of labor. Animal Kingdom has been able to predict the birth window to within four days, which helps them to better prepare for delivery.

With 12 elephants, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park has one of the largest African elephant herds in North America, including four males and eight females. The newest elephant calf joins six elephants that have been born in Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park since 2003. Others include:

Tufani, a male, born in 2003; Kianga, a female, born in 2004;Nadirah, a female, born in 2005;Tsavo, a male, born in 2008; andLuna, a female, born 2010

Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park is part of a breeding program coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) that is focused on sustaining the elephant population in North America. AZA’s Elephant Species Survival Plan has called for a five-fold increase in African elephant reproduction efforts - using both natural and artificial breeding methods - in order to create a self-sustaining elephant population among North American zoos and wildlife centers.

Stay tuned for more details on Disney's Animal Kingdom’s® Theme Park newest calf, including the dates the animal will be available to see. In the meantime you can always enjoy the other animals at Animal Kingdom with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Universal Orlando Announces Grad Bash Lineup

2011-08-29T17:39:14-04:00

Just because Walt Disney World® has ended their annual Grad Night event doesn’t mean high school seniors won’t still have the opportunity to celebrate their milestone at one of Orlando’s most popular theme parks.

Universal Orlando’s Grad Bash 2012 is Orlando’s only high school graduation event where graduating seniors can celebrate with exclusive access to two world-class theme parks, street entertainment and live performances by some of today’s most popular artists.

And this year, the seniors can enjoy music from rapper Pitbull, who has scored four Top 10 singles including his most recent hit “Give Me Everything,” and DJ Khaled who has topped the Billboard Rap Charts with his single, “I’m On One.” High school graduates can enjoy these live performances on the Music Plaza Stage at Universal Studios on April 20, 21, 27 and 28, and May 4.

Students attending Universal’s Grad Bash 2012 will also get access to the theme park’s thrill rides at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Guests can stroll through Hogsmeade and soar above Hogwarts on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, speed through darkness on Revenge of the Mummy, and rock out at 65 miles per hour on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

Stay tuned for more details on Universal Orlando’s Grad Bash 2012.

In other Universal Orlando news, work has begun on the “Despicable Me” attraction for the Orlando theme park. A construction wall has blocked off the building that housed Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast and Jimmy’s gigantic image that was on the side of the building along with the trademark paint splatter of Nickelodeon are now gone.

If you’re not sure where the new attraction’s home will be just look for the construction wall decorated with imagery from “Despicable Me.” The attraction is scheduled to open next year, although we’re not sure when. Stay tuned for more details.

You don’t have to wait until next year to explore Universal Orlando’s rides, shows and attractions. With school back in session and the holidays approaching, now’s the perfect time to take a break from your every day routine! OrlandoFunTickets.com can help you plan your next Universal Orlando trip for less!

For just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children you can spend a day exploring either Universal Orlando or Islands of Adventure! Or take the weekend and visit both parks with 2-day park-to-park ticket! There are plenty more Universal Orlando ticket options to choose from so make sure you click through to see the one that best fits your vacation needs.

And don’t forget to spend your Halloween at Universal for Halloween Horror Nights 21…if you dare! More details to follow!

New Halloween Horror Nights Details Coming Tonight

2011-08-30T17:48:12-04:00

Over the past few months Universal Orlando has taken to their Facebook and Twitter pages to give fans clues as to what this year’s Halloween Horror Nights theme will be. They have mailed cards to “lucky” winners, offered sneak peeks into houses, and let visitors to the official website “take a chance” with games and tonight we’ll all learn what awaits us for this year’s event!

At 11:30 p.m. tonight, fans will have to tune into on Demand to learn all of the details of Halloween Horror Nights 21. The news will apparently come from one of the event’s creators who will finally reveal what we’ve all been dying to know! And all week long Universal has continued to tease us with clues as to what it could be.

On their Halloween Horror Nights website, and on Facebook, a tray of colored cards have slowly been flipped over, each revealing a teaser image inside this year’s haunted houses. Each of the images depicts a scene and/or character from a different maze. The clues hint that there will be 8 haunted houses, but only one has been confirmed, “The Thing.” Based on hints on the website, the remaining houses could include World War I, pirates, demons, holidays and even an Edgar Allan Poe house.

Several Orlando companies, including Wesh 2, received this email today: "You'll get to see who you'll really be facing at this year's event," the email indicated.

Others received a card covered in dried blood, scratches and a few fingerprints that read, “That Lady there … is a Monster.” The L in “Lady” was capitalized and we’re guessing that’s because the Lady is referring to Lady Luck, just one of Universal’s many gambling themes they’ve hinted at over the past few months.

And now with the full reveal only hours away, Universal has asked its fans to “Just Wait…”

A ghastly 11-second video with graphics that say “Just wait” is the final clue on the theme park’s website. And that’s just what we’ll have to do … wait! We’ll see you tomorrow with the full reveal details!

Universal's annual Halloween event kicks off Sept. 23.

If you can’t wait until the end of September to experience Universal Orlando you don’t have to! OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering Universal tickets starting at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children. And if you plan on attending this year’s Halloween Horror Nights and staying to experience everything Universal has to offer OrlandoFunTickets.com offers 2, 3 and 4-day base tickets that give you access to either Universal or Islands of Adventure or explore both parks with a 1, 2 or 7-day park hopper ticket.

Gatorland Free to Teachers in September and October

2011-09-02T16:14:00-04:00

Florida teachers can learn a thing or two about alligators over the next two months with free admission to Gatorland! The Alligator Capital of the World announced Thursday, all Florida teachers, plus one guest apiece will get to experience Gatorland throughout September and October for free!

Public- and private-school teachers must present a photo ID and pay stub from one of the surrounding counties at the time of admission. The free admission cannot be used in conjunction with field trips or group outings scheduled at the attraction, Gatorland says.

With 110 acres, Gatorland offers thousands of alligators and crocodiles, an aviary, breeding marsh with observation tower, petting zoo, nature walk, award-winning gift shop and one-of-a-kind reptilian shows including the Gator Wrestlin’ Show, Gator Jumparoo and the Up-close Encounters Show.

For a limited time, Florida teachers and all other guests will get the chance to see rare white leucistic alligators in the attraction’s newest exhibit, White Gator Swamp. These giant colored ivory reptiles are each ten to twelve feet in length and weigh over 800-pounds! The gator’s piercing blue eyes are that of legend, with some believing they have the ability to command good fortune to those lucky enough to make eye contact with them. Do your best to catch a glimpse of those blue eyes, but whatever you do, don’t get too close!

As if seeing white alligators for the first time wasn’t adventurous enough, teachers, can see how brave they really are and fly high above theses reptiles on the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line! The zip lets you soar from heights of up to 65 feet and speeds close to 30 miles per hour, taking you above the Alligator Breeding Marsh, complete with 130 giant alligators watching from below! Keep in mind the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line is an extra ticket, not included in the price of admission. But that’s ok, because teachers get in free!

And if you’d rather get a trainer’s view of these reptiles rather than fly above them, the “Trainer for a Day” adventure might be for you! Get a better idea of what it’s like to work with and around alligators in the “Trainer for a Day” program. The day begins when you’re introduced to some of Gatorland’s smallest family members – baby gators! Then its time for a backstage tour that gets you up-close-and-personal with some of the attraction’s largest alligators and crocodiles. Next you’ll meet some of the animals from the Upscale Encounters Show and the grand finale has you assisting a Gatorland trainer in the Gator Wrestling Arena! The “Trainer for a Day” tour is also an additional ticket.

Florida teachers, don’t miss out on this exciting offer!

Universal Orlando Introduces Halloween Horror Nights App Welcomes Rock the Universe

2011-09-06T15:15:04-04:00

There’s so much happening at Universal Orlando these days you might not be able to keep up on the latest news. Luckily, OrlandoFunTickets.com has the most up-to-date information on Universal Orlando so you won’t have to go anywhere else!

For the first time ever, Universal Orlando will offer an official mobile app for Halloween Horror Nights 2011. The app will give guests instant access to more information about the annual scare fest. In addition to the app, Universal passholders will get to experience some added perks for this year’s event.

Beginning September 23, the mobile application will be available for download for free. It will feature a GPS Interactive map as well as information on haunted houses, scare zones, shows and other Universal Orlando attractions.

And on September 23, 24, 30, and October 1, Premier and Preferred passholders can get early admission for the passholder and one guest through an exclusive passholder-only entrance at Universal. Once inside, passholders will be able to access The In Between and The Forsaken haunted houses from 5 – 6:30 p.m.

Passholders will also receive early access on those dates for the first showing of Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure, on a first come, first served basis.

In other Universal Orlando news, it was confirmed over the weekend that guests to Halloween Horror Nights 21 will not only be able to “take a chance” on all of the haunted houses, but they’ll also be able to enjoy a few of Universal’s legendary rides like The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster!

It will be the first time the coaster has run during the Halloween event. Rockit, which opened in August 2009, was supposed to be open during previous Halloween Horror Nights, but it never happened.

The popular roller coaster allows individual riders to pick from a play list of songs that will be played during the ride.

Other rides and attractions expected to be open during the event include the Simpsons Ride, Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster, Men in Black Alien Attack and Jaws.

And speaking of The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster, Universal also recently announced that Rockit’s play list will include some Christian artists during their Rock the Universe event, which begins September 9 and runs through the 10th.

If you’re interested in attending either Halloween Horror Nights or Universal’s Rock the Universe event OrlandoFunTickets.com is the place for discounted tickets! For just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children, you can spend one whole day taking in everything Universal has to offer! Keep in mind Halloween Horror Nights and Rock the Universe are special event tickets that are not included in the price of regular admission.

16th Epcot International Food Wine Festival Sept 30 Nov 13

2011-09-07T16:06:31-04:00

Walt Disney World® is in the midst of prepping Epcot® for its 16th International Food & Wine Festival. And this year’s event is offering some new and exotic foods from more than one island paradise. The 45-day festival serves up international cuisine, culture and entertainment from six continents, with more than 25 international marketplaces featuring tapas-sized portions paired with beer, wine and cocktails.

Beginning September 30, guests can stroll through Epcot’s® 40-acres World Showcase Lagoon where you can taste the festival’s first-ever Hawaii marketplace. Take a trip to the beautiful island and get a taste of Hawaii’s culture with Kalua pork sliders and tuna poke with seaweed salad and lotus root chips. You can wash it all down with a refreshing Seven Tiki Mai Tai or a Kona Longboard or Pipeline beer.

Keeping with the tropical theme, a new Caribbean Islands marketplace will also debut tastes including ropa vieja with rice and jerk-spiced chicken with mango salsa. Caribbean beverages like a frozen Dragon Berry Colada and frozen Rock Coconut mojito will make you feel like you’re dipping your toes into the pristine beaches of the Caribbean!

With a swing across the Atlantic, guests can taste Portugal with red, white or port wine paired with calamari salad with olives and smoked paprika or Linguica sausage with onions, peppers and olives. The Scandinavia marketplace returns this year after a hiatus and will feature a fresh new Xante Sunshine cocktail made from Xante pear and cognac liquer. And the Canada marketplace will introduce apple ice wine.

Aside from the new tasting marketplaces, Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival guests can catch their favorite chefs including Jeff Henderson, Cat Cora, Alan Wong, Gale Gand, Suvir Saran, Jamie Deen, Rock Harper, Celina Tio, Robert Irvine, Andrew Zimmerman, Buddy Valastro, Warren Brown, Art Smith, Keegan Gerhard and more.

In addition, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday guests can take part in the first-ever HGTV home entertaining seminars. Plus, daily wine seminars; bottle signings; author events and culinary demonstrations at the Festival Welcome Center.

Throughout the festival guests can enjoy the Eat to the Beat concerts showing three times nightly at American Gardens Theatre. And you’ll be able to marvel at the incredible Cranberry Bog display by Craisins telling the story behind the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage.

This year when you purchase a ticket to Epcot® you’ll get access to Authentic Taste Seminars and Authors Without Borders programs with special book signings at the Festival Center, as well as the Eat to the Beat concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all of the park’s attractions and entertainment.

You can find your discounted Disney tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

New Attraction Coming to Magic Kingdom

2011-09-08T09:26:51-04:00

Walt Disney World® guests and magic enthusiasts can look forward to what Disney is calling a “new role-playing adventure” called Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom® Park. The interactive experience will allow guests to “become apprentice sorcerers” and use maps and clues in missions around the theme park.

And who better than Merlin the famous magician to be the experience’s host, “recruiting” guests in a virtual battle against famous Disney villains. Disney said “Merlin the magician will recruit guests to become apprentice sorcerers and then help them with maps and clues that show where and how to defeat an army of Disney villains.”

You won’t see Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom® Park until early in 2012, but construction has already begun in Adventureland®, with a number of new crates and mysterious key holes appearing, as well as hidden speakers, cameras and other interactive tools.

Disney also shared the first artwork for the upcoming experience. It appears to depict a boy battling Maleficent in dragon form from within a magic mirror.

Stay tuned for more details on Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom® Park and be on the look out for more clues and construction signs!

In the meantime, you can always enjoy Disney’s many other exciting attractions, rides and shows with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Take a 3-day fall break and spend it exploring Disney’s parks for just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children! Disney’s Magic Your Way® Base Tickets allow you to experience the magic up to 10-days in their parks! Make sure you look through OrlandoFunTickets.com for more Magic Your Way® options.

And if 10-days in your favorite Disney theme park just isn’t enough, you may want to check out Florida Resident Annual and Seasonal tickets. For just $263.00 for adults and $238.00 for children you can enjoy admission to Epcot®, Disney's Hollywood Studios™, Magic Kingdom® Park and Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park seasonally!

Or if you’d rather beat the weekend crowds, take a look at the Florida Resident Weekday Select Pass for just $173.50 for adults and $161.00 for children.

For access to Disney anytime you want, without restrictions or black out dates you may want to try the Adult Florida Resident Disney Annual Pass and pay just $374.00 for adults and $346.00 for children. This exclusive pass includes complimentary theme park parking and the freedom to visit multiple parks on the same day.

There are plenty more Disney discounted tickets to choose from so make sure you take some time to look through all OrlandoFunTickets.com has to offer. And don’t forget Disney isn’t the only Orlando theme park we sell. Check out our discounted tickets to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and more!

Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party Begins September 13

2011-09-13T15:56:10-04:00

Halloween at Walt Disney World® begins tomorrow with the Orlando theme parks annual Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom® for 23 select nights between September 13 and November 1.

The “spook-tacular” event will, as always, be filled with the Halloween spirit, including two entertainment spectaculars created especially for the event:

- Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade proceeds down Main Street, U.S.A® led by the Headless Horseman and his trusty steed, and trailed by a cavalcade of holiday-themed characters, from Mickey and the gang to Disney villains and the stars of the Haunted Mansion®.

- The bewitching “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks spectacular will illuminate the sky in bursts of orange and green fireworks, while Cinderella Castle is draped in eerie hues and ghostly apparitions fit along the park’s rooftops.

The Boo-to-You Parade takes place at 8:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. with HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular in between at 9:30 p.m.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party begins at 7 p.m. and runs until midnight. Walt Disney World encourages guests to wear their favorite Halloween costumes and take part in some trick-or-treating around Magic Kingdom® Park.

In addition to the trick-or-treating, guests can enjoy meet and greets with characters and entertainment made especially for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Plus, many popular Magic Kingdom® Park attractions, including, of course, Haunted Mansion® are available to experience.

Party dates in 2011 are: Sept. 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 and 30; Oct. 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30 and 31; and Nov. 1.

For tickets to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Walt Disney World® tickets make sure you visit orlandoFunTickets.com. For just $54.00 for adults and $49.00 for children you and your family can enjoy Halloween’s happiest haunts including “Boo-to-You,” “Happy HalloWishes,” trick-or-treating and so much more!

And if you’d rather spend your day exploring Walt Disney World’s® four parks and attend your own Halloween party, don’t forget to check out the discounted Magic Your Way Base® Tickets. Spend 3-day enjoying three of Walt Disney World’s® parks with the 3-Day Magic Your Way® Base Ticket for just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children.

For more discounted tickets to Halloween events at Orlando theme parks make sure you browse through OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Universal Orlando Offering Haunted House WalkThrough

2011-09-14T09:55:05-04:00

For the first time in Halloween Horror Nights history at Universal Orlando, five “lucky” guests will get the chance to walk-through one of the event’s scariest haunted houses with actual ghost hunters. Steve Gonsalves and Dave Tango from SyFy Channel’s reality TV show “Ghost Hunters” will appear at Halloween Horror Nights 21 on October 6 for the RIP Tour.

Winners will receive admission to Halloween Horror Nights, an RIP Tour of the event and the opportunity to experience a haunted house with the Ghost Hunters.

For those not so lucky to win, Tango and Gonsalves will also host a Q&A at 8 p.m. and autograph session at 9 p.m. that same evening.

As you probably know this year’s Halloween Horror Nights event revolves around the notion of luck, chance and fate with Universal making it clear that “the house always wins.”

If you want to test that last statement, here are this year’s 8 haunted houses:

Nevermore: The Madness of Poe - The madness of Edgar Allan Poe’s greatest works has come to life. Step into the mind of the iconic writer where every turn of the page takes you closer to the brink of insanity.

The Forsaken - Four ships began Columbus’ fateful voyage, only three became legend. Condemned to a watery grave, the mutinous and cursed crew of that 4th ship has returned with a vengeance. For within the walls of a Spanish fort, a maelstrom has brought from the depths… death itself.

H.R. Bloodengutz presents Holidays of Horror - Join creature feature host H.R. Bloodengutz in his final televised broadcast as he presents a scareathon of holiday-based horror that is guaranteed to cleave you screaming for more.

The Thing - Experience the terror of the upcoming film before it hits theaters. Paranoia spreads like an epidemic among a group of researchers in an isolated anactic outpost as they are infected, one by one, by a horrifying creature from another planet. In a place where there is nothing, they found something.

Saws n Steam: Into the Machine - First time taking a scare zone into a house. Spinning blades and massive, crushing pistons await you around every corner as you are forced deeper into the bowels of a mechanical nightmare. Give yourself to “the machine.”

The In-between - A 3-D haunted house. An ominous portal reveals a 3rd dimension where all is not what it seems: A realm where our world and another collide. Surrounded by fiendish creatures, your eyes will deceive you with every step through this phantasm of terror.

Winter’s Night: The Haunting of Hawthorne Cemetery - As snow falls on this normally serene gothic cemetery, the deceased souls that occupy its confines have their sights set upon you. Insuring that the chill you feel up your spine is more than just the cold of night.

Nightingale’s Blood Prey - Within every war, the nightingales have appeared able to transform themselves to fit any setting. These savage banshees feed on the weak and the helpless. Patrolling WWI era trenches, you discover that you are more than at war… you’re being hunted.

SeaWorld Orlando Welcomes an Ocean of Halloween Fun

2011-09-14T14:54:26-04:00

Spend Halloween and the days leading up to it under the seat at SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular! The ultimate family-friendly event features an ocean of Halloween fun where children can trick-or-treat, dance with whimsical sea creatures, catch silly and spooky shows and create sea-themed arts and crafts. SeaWorld encourages kids to come in costume if they really want to get in the Halloween spirit!

You can enjoy all of the fun at this year’s Halloween Spooktacular every weekend in October: 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 and 28-30 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Here are some of SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular highlights:

New! Penelope’s Party Zone: New this year, a lively underwater environment immerses children in the wonders of the sea through kid-friendly music, games, and colorful characters. Located at SeaWorld’s Bayside area, this zone comes to life when guests dance and play along to the spooky sound waves broadcast by a live DJ. With countless bubbles floating overhead and colorful pumpkin fish gliding beside you, this Halloween party is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages.

New! Apple Decorating Post: Kids and parents alike can have a “splash” creating their own sweet treats at this new decorating station. Tasty apples can be dipped – for a nominal fee – with the decadently-flavored sauce of choice: white chocolate, fudge, or caramel, and then topped with sprinkles to finish them off.

Sesame Street’s Countdown to Halloween Show: Don’t miss Count Van Count on a quest to find his friends, Elmo, Zoe and Telly in this live musical stage show. Along the way, The Count meets dancing skeletons who will have everyone in SeaPort Theatre shaking, rattling and rolling.

Trick-or-Treating Under the Sea: Offering more than 1 million pieces of trick-or-treat goodies, costumed youngsters can search for hidden “sea” treasures using their Spooktacular maps at more than a dozen different locations. Each station features an assortment of sweet treats, including a variety of candies and healthy-choice options.

Spooky Sand Art Station: Another new element this year, children (and adults too) can make a multi-colored sand souvenir at this interactive arts and craft area where sea-themed glass bottles — in the shape of dolphins, turtles, starfish and more — are filled with an array of vibrantly-colored sands.

Strolling Entertainment: Penelope Pumpkin fish, Shamu, Dolly Dolphin, Shivers the Polar Bear, Pete and Penny Penguin, a mermaid, and a walking-talking spider-crab are among the many fanciful sea creatures that will join the colorful, playful schools of pumpkin fish welcoming trick-or-treaters as they stroll through the park. Photo opportunities with these “spook-tastic” characters create lasting memories!

And the best part is Spooktacular is included with park admission!

Four Seasons Resort Coming to Walt Disney World in 2014

2011-09-15T16:21:17-04:00

Walt Disney World® is expanding their resort offerings with a brand-new Four Seasons coming to the park in 2014. The resort will be located in the new “Golden Oaks” community, a luxury residential community.

Work for the new $360 million hotel will begin as early as December but no word yet on when the Four Seasons will actually open its doors.

Disney first announced plans for the resort in 2010, when they announced Golden Oaks community, but details and an opening date were not available at the time. Residents of Golden Oaks will also be able to enjoy Disney’s newest hotel without paying for a night’s stay. They will have access to select amenities at the Four Seasons Resort, including the full service spa, restaurants, golf course and event space.

The Four Seasons will be much like one of Disney’s parks with 444 rooms, three pools, a lazy river, and of course a spa with 18 treatment rooms. There will even be sport facilities, including tennis courts, a climbing wall and more! Guests will even get an amazing view of one of Disney’s most popular parks, the Magic Kingdom® Park from the resort’s rooftop restaurant. The project will also include as many as 40 Four Seasons time-share units and up to 90 Four Seasons private residencies.

"This is something that we've been very excited about for a long time, so this is exciting for us to get to this milestone," said Scott Woroch, Four Seasons' executive vice president of worldwide development. "And we're very enthusiastic about being on the cusp of getting shovels into the ground."

Four Seasons expects to fill about half the rooms with families and Disney fans there to enjoy, and the other half with business people there to attend business meetings, conventions and incentive trips.

Despite the Four Seasons reputation for expensive room rates, veteran hotel analyst Bjorn Hanson, the dean of New York University’s hospitality school assures us Orlando and Walt Disney World® are ready for the luxury the Four Seasons has to offer.

“It's not just Middle America that goes to Disney," he says. "It's a very diverse market."

Luxury travel agent Stacy Small, president of Los Angeles-based Elite Travel International, says her customers currently stay at Grand Floridian.

"We will have a lot of clients wanting to stay at Four Seasons Disney," Small says. "It will be the only true luxury resort option in a family friendly destination that hasn't specifically catered to this market."

Check back for more details on the Four Seasons as construction begins in December.

In the meantime, you can always enjoy the four parks of Walt Disney World® with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Universal Orlando Hosts First Ever Halloween Horror Nights Tweetup

2011-09-16T12:26:26-04:00

Universal Orlando is still revealing details about this year’s much-anticipated Halloween Horror Nights. Typically, details on the event are shrouded in secrecy until the event debuts, but with Halloween Horror Nights turning 21 this fall, Orlando is using a different tactic to get the fans excited.

For the first time, Universal Orlando held a “tweet-up” before the annual Halloween event. On Wednesday users of twitter.com were encouraged to arrive at Universal Orlando just after park closing for special access.

“There’s no short supply of great stories,” said T.J. Mannarino, Entertainment Dept. Director of Art and Design, referencing that after 20 years, the fall tradition for many remains fresh.

Universal has been teasing us about Halloween Horror Night’s newest character, “Lady Luck” but up until Wednesday night, little was known about her. Universal calls this year’s icon “a tempting seductress that transforms into a bloodthirsty beast.” That twitter group in attendance learned that each of the eight haunted houses in 2011 will center around eight groups of people who hoped for good fortune, but ultimately had bad luck.

"She's been here since the beginning of time," Mannarino said about the notion of fate, calling luck, "A choice you have to make."

More on this year’s icon was promised to be released before the opening of Halloween Horror Nights on September 23 but Mannarino gave attendees a hint on Lady Luck's true nature

"You think she's good luck, but she's bad luck," he explained.

As for the haunted houses “The in Between” house will use technology, lasers and special effects to deliver what Mannarino believes to be a memorable experience.

“This level of 3D has never before been done,” he said.

Halloween Horror Nights Designer Kim Gromoll promised one room done in 3D will "blow away" visitors. Gromoll, Mannarino and Creative Manager Rick Spencer toured the haunted house earlier this week and were thrilled with the results.

The designers also shared insight into the planning of Halloween Horror Nights and revealed one of this year’s haunted houses had been on the back burner for almost three-years before finally making it to Halloween Horror Nights 21. And after three long years “Nevermore, The Madness of Poe” is sure to be one of the scariest houses at this year’s event.

The tweeters also heard first that the scare zone called “7” will feature a cast with multiple wardrobe changes. When the event begins each evening, the “scare-actors” will be dressed in the first of three costumes and make-up applications. The costumes will go from “temptress” to “fatal vixens” by nights end.

To see what’s new at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights for yourself check right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Orlando Parks Win 2011 Golden Ticket Awards

2011-09-19T16:22:22-04:00

The 2011 Golden Ticket Awards were held this weekend at Holiday World in Santa Clause, Indiana and the Central Florida theme parks walked away with an impressive six awards! Universal Orlando dominated with four awards, while SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World® took home one each.

Here are the categories of awards won:

Best Water Ride (Park) 2011 went to Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, also at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, won the Best Dark Ride 2011

Universal Orlando also took home the Best Halloween Event 2011 as well as the Best Indoor Coaster with Revenge of the Mummy.

SeaWorld Orlando won Best Marine Life Park 2011 and Epcot® at Walt Disney World® took home the Best Outdoor Show Production 2011.

According to the official Golden Ticket Awards website, the results are ”calculated from an international poll conducted by Amusement Today, the Golden Ticket Awards are the results of a detailed survey that is sent to a database of experienced and well-traveled amusement park fans around the world – in balanced geographical regions – asking them to rate the “bests” in 25 categories such as “amusement parks,” “roller coasters,” “food,” “Halloween and Christmas events” and “water rides.”

If you’d like to experience any of the award winning rides at the above-mentioned theme parks you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Right now, you can ride Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls at Universal Orlando and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Islands of Adventure for just $116.50 with the adult 2-day base ticket or $110.00 with the child 2-day Base ticket.

It’s no surprise that Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando won for best Halloween Event 2011. And if you’re “feeling lucky” you should get to Halloween Horror Nights 21 to experience the nation’s premier Halloween event. Halloween Horror Nights begins September 23 and runs through October 31. Stay tuned for more details on discounted tickets right here on OrlandofunTickets.com.

For a day at Orlando’s Best Marine Life Park make sure you check out SeaWorld Orlando tickets for just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children.

Epcot at Walt Disney World® invites you to experience the Best Outdoor Show Production for just $231.00 for a 3-day Adult Magic Your Way® Base Ticket or $213.00 for a 3-day Child Magic Your Way Base® Ticket. And don’t forget, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival begins September 30 and runs through November 13. The Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival lets you dine your way around the world with tastes from the Caribbean, Portugal, Mexico and so much more!

Spielberg Hints at Transformers Ride Coming to Universal Orlando

2011-09-20T12:45:25-04:00

Universal Orlando is about to undergo a big transformation, at least according to legendary Hollywood director, Steven Spielberg. “Transformers: The Ride – 3D” is currently under construction at both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Singapore. But Spielberg hinted to the Orlando Sentinel that more “Transfomers” fun may be on the way.

In an interview with movie critic Roger Moore, Spielberg said:

“I always like to hear that people are still coming to the attractions we already have in the park. I know everybody’s going to Harry Potter right now. But we think Transformers is going to pretty amazing. We’ve been working on that for about three years now. It should be ready soon. I don’t have an announcement, yet, but it should be coming there soon.”

Universal isn’t helping clear up Spielberg’s claims either. Other than the changeover from Jimmy Neutron’s Nick Toon Blast to a Despicable Me-based attraction, the Orlando theme park hasn’t announced anything new. Maybe they’re just waiting until after this year’s Halloween Horror Nights to fill us in on a possible new Transformers 3-D ride.

In Hollywood and Singapore, the motion-based thrill ride will tell a new “Transformers” story using photo-realistic SD-HD media and special effects surrounding a roaming flight simulator ride system. The ride system is actually similar to Islands of Adventure’s “The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man,” which will also be receiving an HD upgrade.

If the new Transformers ride were to land in Orlando, the question would be where would Universal put it? Many suspect it’d go somewhere in Islands of Adventure but where exactly? We know the popularity of the Incredible Hulk coaster would secure its current position and with the upcoming upgrades to Spider-Man, we doubt Universal would scarp those plans just to replace the ride with Transformers 3-D. There’s still plenty of room for it in some places in Universal though, but we might be jumping the gun a little. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see if the rumor even pans out.

In the meantime, you can always enjoy Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk coaster and so many more thrill rides at Islands of Adventure with a Universal Select Base ticket for just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. And if you want to you can spend your day exploring Universal instead with the same ticket. But, if you’d like to experience the thrills of both Orlando parks check out Universal’s Select Park-to-Park tickets. Whether you want to spend 1-, 2- or 7-days hopping back and forth from Universal Orlando or Islands of Adventure OrlandoFunTickets.com has what you’re looking for!

Disney to Build Avatar Attraction in Magic Kingdom

2011-09-21T13:58:36-04:00

Walt Disney World® is going blue. The Walt Disney World® Co. announced Tuesday that it has agreed on an exclusive deal to build attractions on Oscar-winning director James Cameron’s “Avatar” at its theme parks, starting with Animal Kingdom® Theme Park in Orlando.

According to Disney the first “Avatar” land will mimic the thriving green landscape depicted in the highest-grossing movie of all time.

Under their new agreement, Disney won exclusive global theme park rights to the “Avatar” franchise. It will begin building from 2013 and will eventually take Avatar “lands” beyond Orlando.

“Our goal is to go beyond current boundaries of technical innovation and experiential storytelling, and give park-goers the chance to see, hear and touch the world of ‘Avatar’ with an unprecedented sense of reality,” Cameron said in a statement.

At a news conference, Cameron said that when he began talks with Disney designers, he "quickly realized their vision for this thing was far beyond what I imagined, and I've got a pretty good imagination."

Disney’s newest attraction will cost $400 million. Tom Staggs, Disney’s chairman of parks and resorts, said the land would be similar in scope to Cars Land, a 12-acre area based on the town of Radiator Springs in Disney/Pixar’s “Cars” movies. The attraction is set to open next year at the California resort.

Cameron said the attraction would include animatronics and 3-D and holographic technology. Fans of the film have said they wanted to visit Pandora, the director said.

“The scenes that people liked best were not the obvious things like big battle scenes,” Cameron said. “It was the creatures, it was learning to fly, it was being in the forest at night."

“So here’s an opportunity … to bring this world to life and get you to wander in it and see things you didn’t see in either in the first film or the subsequent two.”

Cameron is reportedly working on the second and third installments of “Avatar,” to be released in December 2014 and December 2015.

And yes, Disney will include elements of the second and third films and elements that aren’t included in any of the films.

Disney CEO Bob Iger said the long-term agreement includes the possible expansion of "Avatar" to Disney's other parks worldwide, but there are no immediate plans to do that. Cameron, his company, Lightstorm Entertainment, and producing partner Jon Landau will not get a cut of theme park ticket revenues.

But they will help develop the area under a licensing deal that includes royalties on food and beverage sales, Staggs said. The area should help create thousands of jobs, he added.

For tickets to explore Walt Disney World® now check out our discounted tickets right her eon OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Universal Promises Firsts for Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones

2011-09-22T17:46:28-04:00

Halloween Horror Nights fans are gearing up for tomorrow’s opening night at Universal Orlando. This year’s Halloween Horror Nights haunted houses are expected to get a lot of attention, but don’t forget about the scarezones. They’re expected to be just as thrilling!

“This year, some of the things we’re doing in our streets are by far unique, different and never done before,” said T.J. Mannarino, Universal’s director of art and design.

The six scarezones for Halloween Horror Nights 21 are expected to being several firsts and plenty of screams! Here’s what to expect:

The seven deadly sins comes alive in 7 and Universal is bringing you face-to-face with characters like greed and gluttony. If you want the complete 7 scarezone, you better take a walk through it several times a night to ensure you meet all 7 deadly sins.

“What makes this unique and different is that the characters actually change over the night. When you enter the zone by daylight, they’re actually sensual, seductive and a spectacle. They change as the night goes to dark,” explains Mannarino.

Each character actually has three separate costumes and makeup designs. As it gets dark, porcelain masks give way to show each sin’s twisted face underneath. Their costumes become their prisons. Take Greed for example.

“The gold that she wears becomes her prison. It becomes bigger and larger and actually starts to suffocate her,” Mannarino says.

7 won’t be the only scarezone you’ll want to walk through more than once. In NightMaze, the scenery actually moves.

“The performers are able to change the space while you’re in it. When you enter it, it will not be the same when you leave it. We think it’s probably something no one’s ever done before,” says Mannarino.

The maze is done in all black. And universal’s team says it’s best to go through the scarezone “with your eyes closed.”

Halloween Horror Nights Canyon of Dark Souls couples the confining spaces of a canyon with a 4- to 5-foot tall skulls and totems.

“We wanted to put you in a very tight, confining space. The streets of Universal Studios don’t have those types of locations. So we had to create it,” explains Mannarino.

At the Grown Evil scarezone nature takes over with a garden that only grows one thing, evil!

“It’s kind of like what would happen if Central Park took on a mind of its own and came back at us,” says Universal Show Director Patrick Braillard. “The creatures that inhabit the garden are making any human that enters their prey,” Universal warns in its description of the scarezone.

For more details on this year’s scarezones you’ll just have to visit Halloween Horror Nights 21 yourself!

Walt Disney World Celebrates 40th Anniversary at Magic Kingdom

2011-09-23T15:57:12-04:00

On October 1, 2011 Walt Disney World® will celebrate its 40th year in Orlando. And as with most milestone anniversaries, there will be gifts!

In recent weeks, Disney has been hinting that “surprises” will be in store for guests visiting the Magic Kingdom® Park on October 1. Amidst the speculation of what the surprises could be, a morning presentation and additional nighttime fireworks have been officially scheduled to mark the occasion.

At 10 a.m. on October 1, a 40th anniversary presentation will take place on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage. We’re not sure what the presentation will consist of, but we urge you to get to the park early.

Then, at night, beginning at 9 p.m. the “Wishes” nighttime spectacular show will add special fireworks in celebration of the anniversary.

Again, if you plan on attending the anniversary festivities, make sure you get there early as long lines are expected that morning and throughout the day and Magic Kingdom® Park hours have been extended until midnight that night.

In addition to the presentation and fireworks, Disney will be offering a variety of 40th anniversary merchandise in many of Magic Kingdom’s stores. Disney artists will be at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland and Uptown Jewlers on Main Street, USA®, signing autographs and meeting with fans. Featured artists include Costa Alavezos, Brent Reese, Greg McCullogh, Noah, Dave Avanzino, Jody Daily and Kevin Kidney, Jim Shore, Robert Olszewski, and Gene Gonda.

Some rumored surprises suggest rarely seen characters will be available for meet-and-greet opportunities. Special park guide maps, buttons and cupcakes should also be available as part of the day-long celebration of 40 years of Walt Disney World®. As the event draws near, stay tuned for more details.

In the meantime, you can always celebrate Disney’s 40th anniversary on your own with discounted Disney tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Spend three-days celebrating the four parks of Walt Disney World® and pay just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children!

Or celebrate with a whole week of Disney fun and take your time enjoying everything the theme park has to offer! Adult 7-day Magic Your Way® Base Tickets start at just $261.42 and Child 7-day Magic Your Way® Base Tickets are only $243.14

We can’t leave you today without reminding you that tonight is Universal Orlando’s opening night of Halloween Horror Nights 21! Make sure you check out our discounted Sunday through Thursday tickets. Halloween Horror Nights is by far the scariest Halloween event in Orlando, but our pricing on tickets sure isn’t! “Take a chance” on us and we promise you’ll get lucky – with cheap tickets for just $56.95! For all other Universal Orlando tickets you can find everything you need right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Disney Celebrates Grand Opening of Aulani Resort in Hawaii

2011-09-27T17:12:46-04:00

Disney celebrated the official grand opening of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa on Thursday night with music, sparkling colored lights and the ceremonial mixing of sand with pixie dust. Aulani combines the magic of Disney storytelling and guest service with the beauty and traditions of Hawaii.

The official opening ceremony comes nearly a month after Aulani first opened its doors to the public.

Bob Iger, president and chief executive officer of The Walt Disney World® Company, and Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney World® Parks and Resorts, joined Hawaiian officials for the grand opening event at sunset. Disney’s most famous characters, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse even made an appearance adding some fun to the beachside party. In addition to invited press, guests of the hotel were also invited to watch the opening ceremony. And in true Hawaii fashion, all were encouraged to attend barefoot. The festivities concluded with a Hawaiian rendition of “When you Wish Upon a Star.”

“Aulani is a stunning resort that offers something unique in the vacation industry,” said Iger. “It’s an incredible family paradise that combines the beauty and culture of Hawaii with a touch of Disney magic and we are confident that guests from around the world will continue to enjoy it for many years to come.”

Aulani allows its guests to customize their experience. Whether you want to relax on Hawaii’s pristine beaches or in Laniwai, a Disney Spa, play in the pools and snorkel at Rainbow Reef, or discover the island on a specialty planned excursion, Aulani can accommodate you’re every vacation desire. Among the excursions at Aulani are the Makai Preserve stingray adventure, the Painted Sky teen lounge and spa, and the Menehune Bridge, a water play area.

If you’re not quite ready for a Hawaii getaway, you can always experience the magic of Disney at Walt Disney World® in Orlando. And OrlandoFunTickets.com has the best deals on your Orlando theme park vacation.

For just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children you can enjoy 3-days exploring all 4 Disney parks. To see more than one Disney park in a day check out the Magic Your Way® Park Hopper® Tickets. For just $229.90 for adults and $217.00 for children you can enjoy 2-days hopping from one Disney park to the next.

And if you plan on visiting Magic Kingdom® Park this month make sure you bring the kids to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. OrlandoFunTickets.com is offering tickets for just $54.00 for adults and $49.00 for children.

For more Orlando theme park special offers and deals make sure you browse through all of OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Disney Launches Free App for Epcot International Food Wine Festival 2011

2011-09-28T13:58:20-04:00

Now that the Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival 2011 is just days away, Walt Disney World® is making sure its guests get the most out of their foodie experience with a new mobile app rolling out at the event’s kickoff this Friday, September 30.

With the new mobile app guests to this year’s Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival will be able to better navigate through the festival’s different regions and tastes right from their cell phones.

The mobile device friendly guide is designed to be accessed via QR codes posted on menu boards around the theme park, allowing hungry guests to easily access lists of food and drinks available as well as a variety of other information about the event.

By using a QR reader on a mobile device and scanning Spaceship Earth-shaped QR codes, guests inside Epcot® will have their mobile web browsers directed to a web site, which can also be accessed any time, inside our out of the park, though the exact interface will vary by device.

Guests will be able to sift through the menu offerings at the Epcot® International Food and Wine Festival, navigating by a list or by a map of the World Showcase. Along with the menu will be detailed descriptions and prices for each dish available. Plus, guests will be able to share their favorite (or not so favorite) tastes through social media networks like Twitter and Facebook.

In addition, the app features a list of all special events, such as culinary demonstrations, that take place throughout the International Food & Wine Festival, offering descriptions, prices and availability.

Entertainment isn’t excluded in the app’s offerings. The entire Eat to the Beat Concert series line-up, with photos, dates and details about each band performing at the festival will also be available.

If you’re interested in the mobile guide all you have to do is use any mobile QR reader to scan the codes featured on the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival menus in the theme park.

The Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival begins Friday, September 30 and runs through November 13. Disney is really stepping up their game for this year’s festival. In addition to this new app, Disney is also debuting new food and drink offerings from Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands and Portugal this year. The Orlando theme park also released a series of instructional videos teaching guests how to make some of the event’s most popular recipes at home.

For tickets to Walt Disney World® and all of the theme park’s event look no further then right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com!

Celebrities Enter PGA Tour Tournament at Walt Disney World Resort

2011-09-29T14:58:41-04:00

Sport and entertainment celebrities, along with PGA TOUR veteran Joe Ogilvie, are among the latest entries into the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic, Oct. 20-23 at Walt Disney World®.

Former NFL player Jerome “The Bus” Bettis of the Pittsburgh Steelers, ex-NBA player Alonzo Mourning of the Miami Heat, Tampa Bay Rays star Johnny Damon, future NFL Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks of the Tampa Bay Bucs, actor Anthony Anderson from Law & Order and popular MLB player Brian Wilson of the San Francisco Giants headline the pro-am played during the two official rounds of the Classic on Disney’s Palm and Magnolia courses.

Other celebrities and athletes expected to play include ex- 49ers quarterback Steve Young, James Shields and David Price of the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago Cubs’ Carlos Pena.

Ogilvie is expected to win the friendly golf tournament. He received the first of four sponsor exemptions into the season-ending PGA TOUR Fall Series event. Ogilvie posted three Top 25 finishes, including a third-place performance at the HP Byron Nelson Championship. He is currently 107th on the TOUR money list with $715,749.

The defending champion of the 128-player event is TOUR veteran Robert Garrigus. He joins an impressive line-up of former winners at Disney including Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh, Jack Nicklaus, Payne Stewart and Raymond Floyd.

You can catch this year’s event of the Golf Channel. This is the fifth consecutive year the Golf Channel has broadcast the event and will air live coverage each day.

Tickets to the event are a separate ticket and net proceeds will go to Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, including the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies in Orlando, and Shands Children’s Hospital in Gainesville.

The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic isn’t the only exciting event going on at Disney this October. Beginning tomorrow, foodies will get their fill of tastes from around the world at the Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival. Travel the world without leaving Orlando at this annual event where you can eat your way through Portugal, the Caribbean Islands, Hawaii, Mexico and so much more! Plus, enjoy plenty of entertainment like Eat to the Beat concerts from September 30 to November 13. The concerts will take place at America Gardens Theatre at World Showcase daily at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45.

Epcot® theme park admission is required to partake in the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. For tickets to Epcot® or any of Disney’s other parks you can find everything you need right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Adult 3-Day Magic Your Way® Base Tickets start at just $231.00 and Children 3-Day Magic Your Way® Base Tickets are only $213.00.

Walt Disney World Celebrates 40th Anniversary

2011-10-03T16:25:12-04:00

This past Saturday Walt Disney World® celebrated their 40th anniversary with a special presentation at the Cinderella castle Forecourt stage in the Magic Kingdom® Park. And as you can imagine hundreds gathered outside of the Orlando theme park’s turnstiles eagerly awaiting entrance to secure a spot to enjoy the day’s festivities. And what a day it was!

The party started with a performance by the Main Street Philharmonic® band, playing a medley of classic and popular Disney tunes. The band was introduced by current Walt Disney World® Ambassadors Norman Vossachulte and Jennifer Mason.

Then, guests enjoyed a parade down Main Street USA® with 40 of Disney’s most popular characters before Walt Disney World president Meg Crofton and Magic Kingdom vice president Phil Holmes took the stage to say a few words for the anniversary. To end the festivities, the Dapper Dans led a park-wide singalong of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” after which the Fairy Godmother and all the other characters, from Snow White to Rapunzel, helped officially mark the 40th anniversary with daytime fireworks and blue and gold streamers.

After the presentation at Cinderella Castle, guests were free to go about their day, enjoying all of the fun and excitement with a few 40th anniversary treats. In Frontierland, guests who lined up as early as 6 a.m. opted to miss the morning ceremony, to obtain limited edition and exclusive merchandise as well as meet some of Disney’s most popular artists.

Guests were given special 40th anniversary buttons and guide maps upon entrance to the park.

To round out the celebration, Walt Disney World® concluded its 40th anniversary festivities with a few extra fireworks added to the nightly Wishes spectacular.

Magic Kingdom® Park opened on October 1, 1971 and has helped develop Orlando’s tourism. Today, Orlando is a top destination in the world with more visitors coming here last year than New York, Chicago, Las Vegas or London.

Walt Disney World® now boasts four theme parks, two water parks, golf courses and dozens of hotels and is continually improving and adding to its existing properties.

In recent months, the Orlando theme park unveiled changes to attractions like Star Tours and The Haunted Mansion. Meanwhile, the biggest expansion to the Magic Kingdom is underway. Fantasyland is expected to double in coming months. Disney announced a partnership with filmmaker James Cameron that will bring an Avatar-themed land to Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park.

To celebrate Magic Kingdom’s® Park 40th or to see where the new Avatar land will be you can always find discounted Walt Disney Word® tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Tickets start at $231.00 for an adult 3-day Magic Your Way® Base Ticket.

Haunted Mansions Room For One More Comes Alive at Walt Disney World

2011-10-04T10:04:50-04:00

Just before Walt Disney World® celebrated its 40th anniversary of magic in Orlando, Disney hosted an event commemorating one of the Magic Kingdom’s® most popular opening day attractions. The Haunted Mansion® celebrated its 40 years of ghosts, ghouls and ghastly apparitions with a dinner event to die for!

The “Room For One More” dinner event offered The Haunted Mansion fans a chance to experience their very own haunted dinner party with a few hours of entertainment and fiendish fun. The event was held at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where its Fantasia ballrooms had been turned into a ghost town… quite literally. Over dinner, mortals witnessed “live” characters, performances and musical acts inspired by The Haunted Mansion®.

But before guests could scream their way through the dinner party they had the opportunity to purchase and pick up a variety of new Haunted Mansion®-inspired merchandise, take frightening photos, and bid in a silent auction.

As night fell, “Room For One More” guests were summoned into the ballroom, welcomed in by the Haunted Mansion’s® lantern-carrying graveyard caretaker.

Inside, you felt as if you were actually on the Haunted Mansion® ride. The contemporary ballroom was even complete with the dark ride’s ghostly organist come to life. The fiendish musician entertained guests over dinner, playing mostly somber songs with an occasional rendition of a classic Disney tune like “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

The three-course diner began with a salad of greens and vegetables garnished with stuffed olives. The entrée course included tender short ribs over mashed potatoes with seasoned vegetables. For dessert, cheesecake was served with fruit, whipped cream, a white chocolate skill, and dark chocolate spiders.

Throughout the grisly meal, a ghost host and the caretaker entertained by way of cryptic comedy on stage, and with each entrance came flickering lights, thunder, and lightning making for a chilling dinner.

After dinner, Walt Disney Imagineers Jason Surrell, Jason Grandt, Eric Goodman, and Pete Carsillo took the stage for an hour-long presentation about Haunted Mansion history. The slide and video presentation provided an in-depth look at how the Mansion originally came to be decades ago.

It also included some never-before-heard tidbits about the more recent additions to the Haunted Mansion®, like how the interactive queue’s sculptures were directly inspired by old works by Disney legend Blaine Gibson that were intended for but never found their way into the ride.

The evening was capped off with the Cemetery Singers, a large group of a cappella singers, who performed two songs, first “Zombie Jamboree” followed by an extended rendition of “Grim Grinning Ghosts.”

Guests were then invited to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party across the street at Magic Kingdom® Park where they took a few rides on the Doom Buggy at the famous attraction.

Celebrate Halloween at Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens

2011-10-06T09:24:46-04:00

Sea World Announces Holiday Hiring Plans

2011-10-06T09:53:02-04:00

Sea World Orlando is looking to add onto their staff in the coming months. The Orlando theme park announced plans Tuesday to hire 650 workers to cover the busy holiday schedule.

That’s a significant increase from the 400 seasonal employees it hired for last year’s holiday season. Why the huge jump in numbers? Perhaps it’s due to all of the new and exciting holiday events SeaWorld has to offer this year like SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular. This family-friendly Halloween event offers an ocean of fun where the kids can trick-or-treat, dance with sea creatures, watch silly and spooky shows and create sea-themed arts and crafts.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular takes place every weekend in October and runs from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Or maybe it’s the popular Christmas Celebration SeaWorld needs extra hands for. With Christmas caroling, ice skaters dancing on ice, trips to the North Pole on The Polar Express Experience and live shows inspired by nature, this annual event is sure to bring in family after family.

Keep in mind while the job description says seasonal the officials at SeaWorld Orlando said they will continue into the spring of 2012. The average pay begins at $8 per hour but can start higher.

SeaWorld isn’t the only Orlando theme park planning on hiring for the season. Walt Disney World® won’t provide specific numbers but said it will hire hundreds of seasonal workers. Universal Orlando will hold auditions this weekend for its Macy’s parade and Christmas shows.

And while these Orlando theme parks are looking for workers for the Thanksgiving and Christmas months, we can’t forget about what’s happening this month for Halloween.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World® is currently not scaring the pants off kids at Magic Kingdom® Park. The event encourages guests of all ages to dress up in their favorite Halloween costume and enjoy trick-or-treating around the Disney Park. In addition, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is filled with special entertainment including Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade, Happy HalloWishes, many favorite Disney characters and Disney Villains in special Halloween costumes and so much more!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party runs now through November 1.

You can “test your luck” over at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights. The nation’s premier Halloween event is turning 21 and wants you to “take a chance” with them this Halloween. All-new haunted houses and scare zones make this year’s event one of the scariest and most sinister yet. It’ll take a game of wills to survive the odds and you only have until October 31 to get out alive. Good luck!

For tickets to any of these special Orlando theme park Halloween events and more look no further than right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

SeaWorld Orlando Quietly Works On Changes

2011-10-10T10:49:54-04:00

SeaWorld Orlando fans will be glad to hear that the aquatic based theme park has quietly launched a “major redevelopment” that is expected to add several new attractions to the park in 2012 and 2013.

According to the government filings and interviews with people familiar with various elements, the plans include transforming a 24-year-old penguin exhibit into a new, possibly Antarctica-themed ride; adding a sea turtle movie attraction to an existing manatee display; and building a rainforest-themed trail in Discovery Cove that would include a freshwater pool and habitats for primates and otters.

SeaWorld believes it is too early to discuss the details of the plans but did confirm that it has multiple new attractions in the works.

“We do have plans for incredible new attractions at SeaWorld Orlando, and we’re committed to finding amazing new ways to immerse our guests and fans in the mysteries of the sea,” SeaWorld spokesman Nick Gollattscheck said. “It’s too early to talk about the plans and details right now, but you can expect us to share the news in the near future.”

The change is an effort by Orlando-based SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment – and its owner, private-equity giant Blackstone Group – to revive the biggest and most important of its 10 U.S. theme parks.

The Orlando theme park has struggled in recent months, losing visitors to Universal Orlando and it’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure. With Merlin Group preparing to open Legoland in Winter Haven later this month and Walt Disney World® in the midst of expanding two of its four parks – including Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, SeaWorld desperately needs to keep up.

While the exact upcoming changes are unclear, some details have leaked.

One of the biggest projects, expected to be completed in 2013, involves Penguin Encounter, a walk-through exhibit that opened in 1987 and displays several species of penguins, puffins and murres.

SeaWorld employees have been told the exhibit will close in December for an 18-month refurbishment, and one county official said he expects SeaWorld to demolish the building entirely.

We’re not sure what will replace the penguin exhibit but rumors swirl that SeaWorld plans to build an indoor “dark ride” in its place. Since August the theme park has trademarked a series of names that could be associated with the project: “Antarctica,” “Empire of the Penguins” and “SnowWorld.”

SeaWorld is also planning to redevelop its Manatee rescue attraction. The plans reportedly will include renovating a circular theater and using it for an upgraded, sea-turtle movie that will be tied in with a theatrical documentary.

Stay tuned for more details on SeaWorld’s upcoming changes. In the meantime you can always find discounted SeaWorld tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Disneys Art of Animation Resort Reveals Opening Dates

2011-10-12T17:24:37-04:00

Walt Disney World®’s highly anticipated hotel Art of Animation Resort is right on schedule with the first wing open to guests on May 31, 2012. The new resort will be the Orlando theme park’s 25th resort hotel, and with a new hotel comes some special Disney surprises for guests!

At a media gathering, Walt Disney World® Imagineering and Walt Disney World® Resort Operations released images of new icons arriving at the resort this fall and shared some of the details guests will get the opportunity to see when Disney’s Art of Animation opens next year. For example, guests exploring The Lion King courtyard will see characters from the film, such as the hyenas and the evil Scar, through the eyes of Simba and in the same size and scale as the young cub would experience them.

“Here at Disney, we are in the Guest experience business,” said Kevin Myers, vice president of resort operations for Walt Disney World® Resort. “When we develop a new resort hotel, we draw on Guest feedback about our parks, entertainment, special events and every aspect of Walt Disney World® Parks and Resorts to provide a resort hotel experience that only Disney can deliver.”

Disney’s Art of Animation dining area will feature fresh smoothies, hand-scooped gelato and Mongolian barbecue. The resort will also feature the largest swimming pool outside Disney’s water parks, as well as an extensive children’s water play area at the larger-than-life icons for the Finding Nemo wings of the resort.

The new resort will offer 1,120 family suites in The Lion King, Cars and Finding Nemo wings, and 864 themed rooms in The Little Mermaid wings. Suites will feature both a living room and bedroom.

On May 31, 2012 the Finding Nemo wing will open with the Cars wing set for an open date near the end of July. The Lion King suites will open a short time later in September, and The Little Mermaid value rooms will open by the end of next year.

If you can’t wait until May to experience Nemo you can always head to Epcot® for The Seas with Nemo & Friends®. Guests can board a “clamobile” and descend below the waves into a colorful underwater world where Nemo and his friends explore colorful tropical reefs, discover ancient shipwrecks, meet beautiful sea creatures and stay out of the way of danger!

Over at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, guests can sing along with Nemo in Finding Nemo-The Musical. The adaptation is transformed into a mesmerizing 30-minute Broadway-style musical stage show you won’t want to miss! To see all of the Finding Nemo Disney attractions as well as The Lion King and Little Mermaid attractions make sure you browse through the Disney section right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com for discounted Disney tickets.

Busch Gardens Announces Dates for Special Events

2011-10-13T16:33:31-04:00

Not to be outdone by all of the exciting changes and additions at several of the Orlando theme parks, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has announced the dates for several of their annual events including Viva La Musica, Bands, Brew & BBQ, and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Here are some fun and festive events you can look forward to at Busch Gardens from now through the New Year:Holidays at Busch Gardens- “Celebrate the spirit of the season as the park is transformed into a holiday wonderland featuring seasonal shows, Christmas characters, spectacular poinsettias, festive decorations and classic holiday music.”

Dates: Saturday, November 19 at 12:00 a.m. – Sunday, January 1, 2012 at 11:30 p.m.

New Year’s Eve at Busch Gardens – “Countdown to 2012 with the biggest party this side of midnight – it’s the ultimate New Year’s celebration on December 31! Guests will enjoy a DJs pumping music throughout the park and spectacular fireworks just as the clock strikes midnight!

Bands, Brew, & BBQ – “Sample dozens of craft and international beers and fire up your taste buds with food from your favorite local restaurants and the park’s own famous, blazing barbecue while enjoying sizzling live performances from award-winning country and classic rock artists.”

Dates: February 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 & March 3-4 2012.

Viva La Musica - “Feel the fiesta fire rising all around Busch Gardens with Viva la Musica! Hear top Latin performers play their Grammy-winning music. Enjoy festival atmosphere and spicy, flavorful Latin food. Whether you’re eating salsa or dancing it, get ready for an unforgettable day.”

Dates: April 15, 22, 29 & May 6 2012.

Stay tuned for more details on all of these upcoming events.

While you’re celebrating the holidays or experiencing Viva La Musica in April make sure you take check out Busch Gardens’ newest thrill coaster Cheetah Hunt and its accompanying Cheetah Run.

The thrilling roller coaster let’s guests experience the speed of the cheetah as you fly through the Serengeti just like a cheetah in pursuit. Afterwards, take a walk over to Cheetah Run where you’ll get to experience the incredible animal in person in their natural habitat.

And speaking of Busch Gardens’ animals, there are plenty of other animal attractions to enjoy on your trip to Busch Gardens. Embark on a walking safari through Edge of Africa where you’ll encounter exotic African animals including hippos, lions, hyenas, lemurs, meerkats, crocodiles and laeppet-faced vultures.

Over at Jungala explore the lush Congo area where you’ll experience up-close animal encounters, a three-story maze of rope bridges and nets, two signature rides and live entertainment. You can find discounted Busch Gardens tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Tickets start at $75.00.

Cinderellas Holiday Wish Begins November 4

2011-10-17T17:18:13-04:00

Among all of the many exciting holiday events coming to Walt Disney World® this November is the spectacular castle dreamlight show, Cinderella’s Holiday Wish.

Beginning November 4 and running through the end of the year, guests can watch as Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom® Park turns into a snowy winter wonderland! 200,000 tiny white lights turn the castle into a dazzling light show during the holiday season.

The show begins with Mickey, Minnie and the gang onstage, admiring the festive lights illuminating Main Street, U.S.A.® The characters suddenly notice how dark and drab Cinderella Castle is and discuss what they could do to make it more festive.

As they discuss ideas, the Fairy Godmother appears and suggests Cinderella herself should be the one to decide what to do with the castle.

Cinderella then enters with her Prince Charming and everyone agrees that the castle should sparkle the way her beloved glass slippers do – like shimmering ice and snow.

With a wave of Fairy Godmother’s wand – and guests joining in to make the wish come true – Cinderella Castle magically morphs into a glorious wintry confection, twinkling in the night sky. "The castle suddenly shines like a glistening blanket of ice," explained Disney show writer/director Alan Bruun. "Guests won't believe their eyes at the spectacle as Cinderella's holiday wish comes true."

You can catch Cinderella’s Holiday Wish beginning November 4 nightly at 5:45 p.m. Cinderella Castle will also play a supporting role in other Magic Kingdom® Park entertainment such as live stage shows, the nighttime fireworks extravaganza “Holiday Wishes” and the after-hours Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which is a specially-ticketed event featuring the new “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.”

Here are a few fun facts to get you excited about Cinderella’s Holiday Wish:This is what it took to transform Cinderella’s fairytale into a magical ice palace:- Five weeks and 65 elves - Two cranes- 15 miles of cables, cut and dyed castle colors, supporting…- 32,000 square feet of fishing nets, supporting…- 200,000 energy-efficient LEDs, interspersed with…- 500 strobes- One Fairy Godmother working some very special magic!

Stay tuned for more details on Cinderella’s Holiday Wish. In the meantime you can find tickets to Disney’s Magic Kingdom® Park right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Disney’s Magic Your Way® Base Tickets start at just $231.00 for an adult 3-day pass and $213.00 for a child’s 3-day pass.

If you’d like to see what Disney’s other parks are doing for the holiday season you might want to check out the Magic Your Way® Park Hopper® tickets starting at just $229.00 for an adult 2-day pass and $217 for a child 2-day pass.

James Cameron Tom Staggs Joe Rhode Tour Disneys Animal Kingdom

2011-10-18T17:04:55-04:00

Just under a month after Walt Disney World's® announcement that the Orlando theme park is linking up with James Cameron to build the world of Avatar to one of its parks, filmmaker James Cameron and his Lightstorm Entertainment producing partner Jon Landau, explorde Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park on Monday along with Imagineer Joe Rhode, Disney Parks Chairman Tom Staggs, and Parks President Meg Crofton.

Does this mean, Disney and Cameron are close to announcing more specific details of what we can expect from Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park?

Perhaps. After Cameron toured the Disney Park he had this to say, “Getting the chance to roll up my sleeves and explore Disney’s Animal Kingdom® from the inside out was a phenomenal experience. As I walked through the park, I kept imagining Pandora coming to life all around me and found my mind racing with all the possibilities of what we will be able to create in the years ahead. Disney’s Animal Kingdom® is truly a remarkable place and I can’t think of a better home for our first AVATAR experience.”

Staggs ensures the Avatar land will not only fulfill Cameron’s vision but still reflect Disney’s image.

“We do a significant amount of work at the beginning of our projects to ensure that the final experience has the attention to detail, theme and uniqueness for which Disney is known,” said Tom Staggs. “Today’s visit is an important step in the creative process and we are excited about getting started on what will be a spectacular addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom®.”

Along with their team at Lightstorm Entertainment, Cameron and Landau are serving as creative consultants on the project, working side-by-side with Imagineers to dream up groundbreaking experiences that will take guests deep into the worlds of AVATAR like never imagined.

“AVATAR and Disney’s Animal Kingdom® share a common bond in that they both focus on adventures that will radically change your perspective. They call you to take action on behalf of nature wherever it may be found,” said Joe Rohde, who led the creative team that designed the park. “This is a rare opportunity to collaborate with Jim, who has an incredible eye for detail and a passion for doing things that haven’t been done before.”

The first Avatar-themed land is expected to begin at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® by 2013.

But you don’t have to wait until 2013 to experience Disney’s Animal Kingdom®. You can explore the animal based park and even try to guess where you think the Avatar land will end up with special savings on Disney tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Choose from Base tickets, Park Hopper® Tickets, No Expiration Tickets and so much more!

Universal Orlando Reveals Untold Story of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

2011-10-19T16:54:36-04:00

Universal Orlando released the next “untold story” of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure. In this recent release the Orlando theme park offers a closer look at the potted Mandrake.

According to Universal, the Dogweed and Deathcap storefront in Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando Resorts’ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is home to many exotic plants and flowers, including the potted Mandrake. The Mandrake shrieks and squirms as guests pass by.

If you’ve seen or read any of the Harry Potter films or books you’ll recognize the Mandrake as bebop the key ingredients of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. In both the book and the movie the Mandrake was a plant that was used to cure petrification. Those that caught a glimpse of the giant basilisk, the beast hidden in the chamber of secrets would be petrified, but with the use of a Mandrake the victims could be cured. The Mandrakes, however, are also dangerous as the scream from a baby could knock you out, and the cries of the adults could kill you. But don’t worry the Mandrakes at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter are perfectly safe!

The “untold stories” are all a part of Universal Orlando keeping with the magic of the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Orlando theme park is releasing details and pictures in an effort to help explain a little more of the Harry Potter story, especially for those who haven’t read the books or seen the movies.

The first “untold story” image showed the hourglass in Hogwarts Castle. The hourglasses, known as “house points” record the points earned or lost by members of the four Hogwarts houses throughout the school year – scarlet represents Gryffindor, blue represents Ravenclaw, green represents Slytherin and yellow represents Hufflepuff.

Stay tuned for more of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter “untold stories.” In the meantime you can enjoy all of the magic of the themed area, including the Mandrakes with discounted Islands of Adventure tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Spend the day roaming the shops of Hogsmeade just like Harry Potter does in the movies, choose your “dragon” in Dragon Challenge and experience the thrill and excitement as you twist, loop and nearly collide with other dragons on this thrilling roller coaster ride, or even join Harry and his friends on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey coaster where you’ll come face-to-face with an array of magical creatures all for just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children. You can even ride the movies at Universal Orlando with 2-day Park-to-Park tickets starting at $139.99 for adults and $129.99 for children.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potters Dragon Challenge Ends Duel

2011-10-20T17:18:31-04:00

Universal Orlando is losing its “duel.” After ten years of thrilling guests with its two intertwined roller coasters that reached speeds of 60 miles per hour, Universal Orlando has announced some changes for the popular coaster “Dragon Challenge.”

The Orlando theme park said this week it has decided to permanently end the practice of launching the two coasters simultaneously. The resort now bills the attraction as a “high-speed chase between two coasters.”

After a few guests suffered injuries while riding the coaster, Universal issued this statement about the changes, “We believe this is the best path forward for our guests and for the attraction,” Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said.

“Dragon Challenge” was a double inverted coaster that had the surprising feature of being on of the first dueling inverted coasters in the world. On the coaster two trains would pass within inches of each other, simulating a collision. After the reported incidents, the dueling feature was temporarily stopped, and the two trains were released separately. But now the change appears to be a permanent one and there’s no news on whether that will be the only change Dragon Challenge undergoes.

The ride was initially known as “Dueling Dragons” but was given a new, Harry Potter-themed name in 2010 when it was incorporated into the park’s new Wizarding World of Harry Potter area. Stay tuned for more details on the changes to Dragon Challenge. In the meantime you can always enjoy all of the other rides and coasters The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has to offer.

Even though you can no longer “duel” with each other on the Dragon Challenge you can still choose your dragon, either an aggressive Chinese Fireball or a ferocious Hungarian Horntail. Or take a “training flight” with a Hippogriff aboard the Flight of Hippogriff, a family coaster woven from wicker and decorated with fluttering leaves. You can even enter Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where you’ll visit iconic locations such as Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark classroom, the Gryffindor common room and more before soaring above the castle and meeting up with Harry on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

You can experience the Dragon Challenge minus the “duel” as well as all of the other rides listed above and the shops of Hogsmead for just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! You can even explore all of the rides and shows at Universal and tour The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with OrlandoFunTickets.com’s discounted Universal Orlando Park-to-Park tickets. For just $139.99 for adults and $129.99 for children you can spend two days going back and forth between both Orlando parks, making for a perfect weekend getaway.

Sweet Treats and Holiday Additions at Walt Disney World

2011-10-24T16:18:19-04:00

Now that Halloween is right around the corner its only fitting we discuss the sweet treats and fall foods that are taking over the Orlando theme park. From savory popcorn to the seasonal pumpkin spice funnel cake in Epcot’s® American Pavilion Walt Disney World® and its four parks aren’t tricking you on this year’s treats!

You can smell the pumpkin spice funnel cakes form a mile away at Epcot’s® American Adventure funnel cake stands. The spicy-sweet, plate-sized pieces of fried dough are the perfect way to welcome fall and enjoy your trip to Epcot®.

Popcorn has never been more fun or more delicious than it is during Halloween at Walt Disney World® theme parks. No matter how you like it, you’ll love the adorable ghost Mickey Mouse or a Disney Parks Halloween souvenir container the crunchy treat comes in.

If you want the souvenir container without the salty snack, you can head to the Main Street Confectionary in the Magic Kingdom® Park and purchase on there. It even comes with a coupon for a box of popcorn in case you change your mind.

What’s Halloween without caramel apples? Disney takes the classic Halloween sweet treat and makes it their own with your favorite characters recreated as caramel apples. Pick and choose between Witch Minnie in her purple and orange witch costumes; Jack Skellington; or a classic jack-o-lantern design.

Every year Main Street Bakery and Confectionary comes up with the best and tastiest Halloween-themed basked goods. This year you can treat yourself to “wicked witch” cupcakes, along with the mummy cookies all wrapped up in “gauze” made of frosting. And for the first time guests can enjoy a graveyard cupcake complete with sugar “bugs” and chocolate cookie crumb “dirt,” and chocolate covered mummy sugar cookies with red candy eyes.

Pumpkin and fudge? Yes, please! Make sure you grab a piece of Pumpkin Fudge during your fall trip to Disney. It’s easily the smoothest, creamiest fudge that Walt Disney has ever made. And with the perfect amount of spice you’ll be going back for more!

Outside of Disney’s four parks Raglan Road in Downtown Disney® Area offers an incredible dessert you have to try – Baked Pumpkin Cheesecake! And if you like to wash down your sweets with something savory, try out a Raglan Road seasonal brew – Brooklyn Post Road Pumpkin Ale.

In addition to decadent desserts, Walt Disney World® Resort has some new and fun additions the whole family will enjoy for the upcoming holiday season. The Magic, The Memories and You! Light show at the Magic Kingdom® Park is set to get a holiday themed addition from November 8. Cinderella Castle will also continue to host the castle dreamlight show “Cinderella’s Holiday Wish.”

Universal Orlandos Upcoming Holiday Events

2011-10-25T14:20:47-04:00

‘Tis the season to start planning your holiday festivities. And what better way to gather with friends and family and share in the holiday spirit then at one of Orlando’s many theme parks!

This year, Universal Orlando Resorts are getting into the holiday spirit with tons of old and new holiday-themed events. Beginning next month guests will come face-to-face with the Grinch and the Whos from Whoville, watch a cheerful holiday parade filled with big Macy’s balloons and sing alongs to classic holiday tunes and stroll through a holiday-trimmed park the whole family will love! Here’s what to expect at Universal’s two parks this holiday season:

Adults and children alike will love the holiday entertainment at Islands of Adventure when Dr. Seuss’ book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is brought to life in Grinchmas. Guests can see the live show featuring The Grinch and the Whos from Whoville with an original recorded musical score by Manheim Steamroller. Guests will also be able to meet the grumpy Grinch and the Whos.

At Universal Orlando, guests will be able to experience the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade without traveling to the Big Apple. The Macy’s Holiday Parade will celebrate its 10th anniversary of partnership with Universal Orlando by filling the streets every evening with some of the iconic elements at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The event features colorful holiday characters, fantasy-filled floats – including one specially designed to commemorate the 10-year milestone – a tree-lighting ceremony by Santa Claus and dozens of larger-than-life balloons.

Returning this year is Mannheim Steamroller with more concerts than ever before! The acclaimed musical group will take to the Music Plaza stage in Universal Studios six times this year to play their holiday hits for guests. You can catch Mannheim Steamroller on December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18.

Also at Universal Studios, guests can enjoy special holiday-themed versions of their favorite shows, and nightly a capella holiday music in the nearby Holiday Village, which is filed with holiday treats including caramel apples, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts and a cupcake decorating location.

You can find both Universal Orlando or Islands of Adventure tickets for less right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Base tickets start at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children. To experience both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure’s holiday activities make sure you check out the Universal Orlando Park to Park tickets. Spend 2-days jumping from Macy’s Holiday Parade to The Grinch for just $139.99 for adults and $129.99 for children. Stay tuned for more details on Universal Orlando’s holiday events. And don’t forget to check back for other Orlando theme park holiday news.

Busch Gardens To Host First Ever Grad Nite

2011-10-26T14:13:55-04:00

While Walt Disney World ended their annual Grad Nite at Magic Kingdom earlier in the year, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is picking up where the Orlando theme park left off with their own celebratory night for high school seniors.

Busch Gardens’ first-ever 12th Grade Grad Nite will be held on Friday, April 27, 2012 and will offer more than just a few rides on the park’s thrilling roller coasters. High school seniors will enjoy live entertainment by two popular acts, high-energy DJs and dance parties in the streets, and much more for their special night.

American pop rock band Cobra Starship and comedian Gabriel Iglesias will headline the entertainment with special performances for the graduating seniors. Cobra Starship recently released their fourth album, Night Shades, in August 2011, with the hit single “You Make Me Feel…” But the band is best known for their Top 40 hit, “Good Girls Gone Bad.”

“Fluffy” Gabriel Iglesias is known as the comedian who coined the saying, “I’m not fat… I’m fluffy.” Gabriel hosts Comedy Central’s newest TV series, “Gabriel Iglesias Presents Stand-Up Revolution” and his credits include “Last Comic Standing,” ABC’s “My Wife & Kids,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and “The Family Guy.”

Graduating seniors will be able to enjoy all of the rides including SheiKra, Kumba, Montu, Gwazi and the new mega-attraction Cheetah Hunt as well as Cobra Starship and Gabriel Iglesias well into the evening as the Tampa Bay theme park stays open after hours for the special occasion. Busch Gardens’ Grad Nite will take place from 7:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m.

Keep in mind this event is a separate ticket from Busch Gardens’ admission and only graduating seniors are allowed to attend.

If you’re not a graduating senior or you just can’t wait until April to experience all of the rides and entertainment the theme park has to offer you can find discounted tickets right her eon OrlanodFunTickets.com.

For just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children, you can spend the day riding Cheetah Hunt and watching the incredible predator at Cheetah Run as well as all of the other roller coasters and animal attractions the park has to offer.

And don’t forget about Busch Gardens’ annual Halloween event Howl-O-Scream that takes place now until Halloween. If you prefer the Gardens filled with zombies, haunted houses and creepy entertainment make sure you check out OrlandoFunTickets.com’s Howl-O-Scream tickets for just $50. Busch Gardens’ promises fans this year’s event is the most horrifying yet and at just $50 you’ll be begging for mercy and screaming for more!

Check back for more details on Busch Gardens’ first ever Grad Nite as we get closer to the event.

Last Chance for Orlando Theme Park Halloween Events

2011-10-27T15:39:24-04:00

Central Florida’s theme parks have been tricking and treating guests for over a month now. But just as Halloween arrives, the Orlando theme park’s gentle goblins and murderous monsters vanish into the night. Here are the top Orlando theme Park Halloween attractions you shouldn’t dare miss:

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando ends its “winning streak” after Monday. The award-winning Halloween event offers plenty of gruesome and gory haunted houses and scare zones, plus Lady Luck herself as she lures you in to her sinister trap. This year’s theme revolves around “luck” and “chance” so make sure you don’t gamble with your life!

For a little less tricking and a lot more treats, head over to SeaWorld Orlando for SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular. From now until Sunday kids can get their fill of candy as they trick-or-treat among sea life-inspired costumed characters. Running daily at noon this year’s event features the Penelope’s Party Zone, which offers a dance floor, an apple-decorating station and sand-sculpture area.

From one kid-friendly Halloween event to another, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World® features a parade, fireworks, trick-or-treating and a stage show starring Disney villains. The less than scary Halloween event runs through Monday with a bonus day on Tuesday, the day after Halloween.

Take a walk on the dark side of the gardens this year at Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream. With its most popular and most sinister haunted house, Alone, this Halloween scare fest rivals Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights for the most haunting. If you want to tour the gardens filled with zombies and walk “alone” through a haunted house you better hurry. Howl-O-Scream actually ends before Halloween. The final night is Saturday. Keep in mind the Alone haunted house is a separate ticket and reservations are required.

If you know you won’t be able to make it to any of these theme parks before Halloween ends you can still find discounted Orlando theme park tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Spend a day riding the movies at Universal Orlando with a base ticket that starts at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children. Explore the creatures of the sea at SeaWorld Orlando with adult admission starting at $67.00 and children admission for just $59.00. Experience the magic of Walt Disney World® with a 3-Day Magic Your Way Base ticket for just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children. For a roller coaster adventure you can’t get anywhere else, head to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and pay just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children.

If you’re waiting for the holidays before you head to any of the above-mentioned theme parks stay tuned for details on what kind of holiday cheer you’ll find this year.

Whats Under Construction at Orlando Theme Parks

2011-10-28T17:20:02-04:00

Orlando’s theme parks are always adding new elements to keep their brand fresh and inviting, but this year a few of Central Florida’s most popular theme parks seem to be kicking it up in terms of attraction additions. Let’s take a look at what we can expect for the upcoming season and beyond.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay welcomes a new 30-minute ice skating show, Iceploration. The show explores the four corners of the Earth, featuring Broadway-style costumes from a Tony Award-winning designer.

The ice show will focus on a digital-savvy teenager and his grandfather, who urges the teen to explore the world in person, rather than online. Along the way, the two will visit the African Serengeti, Great Barrier Reef, the Arctic and the Amazon rainforest.

Iceploration debuts in the Moroccan Palace theater Feb. 2, 2012.

Walt Disney World® is planning several additions to two of its theme parks over the next few years. There’s been quite a buzz over the recent news that an Avatar-based attraction will hit Animal Kingdom® at Walt Disney World®. Avatar-land for will feature multiple attractions based on James Cameron’s 3D film, the biggest box office movie of all time. The attraction is scheduled to debut in 2016.

At Magic Kingdom® Fantasyland® is undergoing a major renovation, which will open in phases beginning in late 2012 through 2013. The first of its renovations includes The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, a new indoor/outdoor family coaster that will replace Snow White’s Scary Adventures.

Visitors will sit in mine cars that will sway on a twisting track in this musical roller coaster adventure, featuring Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Also a part of Fantasyland’s expansion is the Under the Sea: Journey of the little Mermaid, expected to debut in 2013. Stay tuned for more details on Fantasyland’s additions.

Universal Orlando is getting despicable next year with a new Despicable Me 3D show. Replacing the Jimmy Neutron attraction, Despicable Me will transform the audience into Minions, accompanying Gru and his daughters as they visit the Universal Orlando Resort. The finale will feature an interactive dance party with the Minions.

All of the changes and additions coming to Orlando’s theme parks come on top of the usual excitement the parks offer, especially during the holiday season. If you plan on experiencing any of the Halloween fun at these theme parks you only have until Monday to do so. Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, Walt Disney World’s® Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular event and Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream all end on Halloween. And don’t forget to check back soon for the park’s annual holiday events. They typically start right after Halloween!

Childrens Miracle Network Honors Kid Champions at Walt Disney World

2011-10-31T18:02:49-04:00

A slew of celebrities joined the Children’s Miracle Network in a five-day celebration last week at Walt Disney World®. Hospital staff, pediatric caregivers, sponsors and children gathered to celebrate accomplishments and honor ‘Champions” – kids ages 3 to 17 who’ve been selected to represent more than 17 million children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals around the country.

Among the celebrities and special guests were Children’s Miracle Hospital co-founder John Schneider, along with Meredith Viera, David Archuleta, Mark Wills, Bill Engvall, Steve young and Miss America. The crew helped honor these special children at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and other locations around the Orlando theme park.

Each U.S. state was represented by at least one of the 54 Champions, who themselves have undergone treatment for various medical reasons. Each child was given the chance to not only enjoy the Disney parks, but to be recognized with a special ‘Celebrate a Dream Come True” parade.

Country singer Mark Wills and comedian Bill Engvall entertained the audience during the Meet the Champions Party and Medal Ceremony, where each of the Champions were recognized for meeting medical challenges with courage.

The Children’s Miracle Awards ceremony was quite the star studded event with Meredith Viera as the emcee for the black-tie dinner. The event recognized hospitals, caregivers and sponsors. Singer David Archuleta performed Dream Sky and Lean on Me. Children’s Hospital patient Eileen Garrido sang and Miss America Teresa Scanlan delivered a piano number. Olympic champion Mary Lou Retton was one of those recognized, receiving the Merlin Olsen Legacy of Miracles Award for her 20 years of active involvement with Children’s miracle Hospitals. The award was presented to the gymnast by Children’s Miracle Network co-founder John Schneider.

Last week’s events also included the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic. For the 41st year in a row, Walt Disney World® has hosted this golf event that is the last stop on the PGA tour. Luke Donald pulled an upset, winning not only the trophy that features Donald Duck and Goofy, but also PGA Player of the Year.

For your own trip to Walt Disney World® check out discounted Disney tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Spend 3-days at any one of the four Disney parks for just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children. Or take 2-days and experience the magic of all four parks with an Adult 2-Day Magic your Way Park Hopper Ticket for only $229.00 and $217.00 for children. For more discounted Disney tickets make sure you check out the complete ticket offerings right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Busch Gardens Brings Back Thrills for 2012

2011-11-02T17:43:38-04:00

Now that we’re just two months away from the New Year, Busch Gardens has announced some new attractions and old favorites they plan on bringing back/introducing in 2012. Beginning in January the Tampa Bay theme park will be jam-packed with family-friendly events that will take us all the way through the lazy days of summer. Here’s what to expect at Busch Gardens in 2012:

Beginning in February, the park will debut an ice show called Iceploration. The show will incorporate ice skaters, puppets and animal stars as they tell the story of a pre-teen Austin and his grandfather who encourages his grandson to put down the smartphone and explore the world.

Also in 2012, Busch Gardens will open the Animal Care Center, which will allow guests the opportunity to observe and even take part in animal care.

Guests will also be happy to know that the Tampa Bay theme park is bringing back some fan favorites including:

Internationally known animal expert Jack Hanna. On January 13, the animal lover will be at the park for meet and greets, autograph signings and wild animal shows.

Every Wednesday through Saturday beginning January 18-March 24, notable musicians will be performing including Frankie Avalon, Herman’s Hermits, The Ventures, Rita Coolidge and more.

In February, Busch Gardens’ guests will be able to enjoy four weekends of fun on Saturdays and Sundays with Bands, Brew & BBQ. For two days, guest scan sample international beers, food from local restaurants, and every Sunday enjoy a live performance. The performers include Lynyrd Skynyrd, Brett Michaels, 38 Special and REO Speedwagon.

The Busch Gardens’ fun heads straight into the spring with Viva La Muscia on April 15-May 6. Every Sunday award-winning performers, regional Latin Cuisine and Authentic arts and crafts will take over the park for all to enjoy.

Summer time in Tampa begins on June 9-August 12 with Summer Nights. Kinetix will return with energizing shows with live musicians, singers, dancers and artists from around the world.

To experience any and all of these fun 2012 Busch Gardens events you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. For just $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children you and the family can experience Busch Gardens’ many thrill coasters, animal attractions and special events all in one-day!

But before you make plans for 2012 don’t forget to visit Busch Gardens for the holidays! Beginning this month, the Tampa Bay theme park will be transformed into a holiday wonderland featuring Christmas characters, spectacular poinsettias, festive decorations and classic holiday music! Stay tuned for more details on Busch Gardens’ holiday festivities.

Orlandos Theme Parks Light Up for the Holidays

2011-11-04T09:25:13-04:00

As we say goodbye to Halloween and head straight into the season of giving, Orlando’s theme parks are magically turning into winter wonderland’s filled with 70-foot tall Christmas trees, thousands of poinsettias, miles of garland and millions of twinkling lights. Here’s what you can expect to find at some of Orlando’s most popular parks:

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is spreading the cheer this season with spectacular poinsettias, Christmas characters, festive decorations and music and shows themed to the season on select days in November and December. A highlight will be the park’s classic holiday ice show, Christmas on Ice presented several times daily from Nov. 21 to Jan. 1.

Walt Disney World® and all of its parks always put on quite the holiday extravaganza and this year is no different as all four parks bring the magic to the season with their own festivities.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is celebrating with Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade. The musical cavalcade safari style presents favorite characters such as King Louie and Baloo, Mickey and Minnie, and Chip and Dale on Nov. 8-Jan. 4. Stiltwalkers and Savannah friends dance along floats at the park each day at 4 p.m. during this parade. Santa Goofy’s Holiday Village at the Camp Minnie-Mickey section of the park is decked out for the season and Santa Goofy and other characters meet and greet visitors and pose for pictures.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights returns Nov. 10-Jan. 3. The Streets of America section of the park light up with millions of multi-colored lights blanketing buildings and forming animated displays of flying angels, spinning carousels and more! “Snow” even falls each night adding to the Christmas spirit and every 10 minutes the lights are choreographed to “dance” to traditional holiday music.

Enjoy the holidays around the world at Epcot during its Holidays Around the World Festival. Storytellers in costume relate the holiday traditions of various countries and there is a daily tree-lighting ceremony with Disney characters. A guest favorite is the Candlelight Processional with celebrity guests narrating the Christmas Story. Holidays Around the World is presented Nov. 25-Dec. 30.

Magic Kingdomis one of the most popular Disney® parks to visit during the holidays as it offers several seasonal attractions including a 70-foot tall Christmas tree adorned with Victorian-style ornaments on Main Street U.S.A. The beautiful tree presides in the square surrounded by garlands and poinsettias, and lights outline the buildings making for a very magical time. The Castle Dream Lights are also a must see as Cinderella Castle shimmers with lights during a ceremonial show performed at dusk each evening beginning Nov. 8-Jan. 3.

Stay tuned for more Orlando theme park holiday events.

SeaWorld Orlando Releases 2012 Event Schedule

2011-11-04T12:34:37-04:00

Following in Busch Gardens’ footsteps earlier this week, SeaWorld Orlando released their event schedule for 2012 yesterday. Here’s what guests can expect to find at the aquatic theme park in just two months:

Kids will get a kick out of Saturdays at SeaWorld next year with the New! Just for Kids! Festival for ages 2-9. Kids will be able to enjoy performances by kid-favorite entertainers, such as Choo Choo Soul and Max and Ruby, as well as fun, family activities that will take place Saturdays, Jan 14-Feb 4.

Bands, Brew & BBQ will hit the park beginning on Feb 11 with twice as much rockin’ fun when the park hosts concerts Saturdays and Sundays. The event runs Feb. 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 and March 3-4. That’s four weekends of smokin’ hot concerts, sizzling BBQ and a thirst-quenching beer garden.

Celebrity animal expert, Jack Hanna will spend a weekend showing off amazing animals from around the world March 24-25.

The Hispanic festival Viva La Musica spices up SeaWorld Saturdays in April and early may with traditional Latin food, specialty drinks, and Grammy and Latin-Grammy-award winning performances. The fiesta runs April 14, 21, 28 and May 5.

Cool off during those hot summer days at SeaWorld’s annual Summer Nights. All summer long, June through August, guests will enjoy waves of fun with fantastic nighttime shows, thrilling coasters under the stars, and a nightly fireworks and fountain finale.

October brings in Orlando’s friendliest Halloween event, Halloween Spooktacular but in 2012 its better than ever1 Children can trick-or-treat, encounter whimsical sea creatures, and catch silly and spooky shows on Oct. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28.

We’re not even at Christmas in 2011 and SeaWorld has already announced Christmas 2012 events! SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration brings elves, Elmo, Santa and Shamu to the annual holiday bash. Waves of holiday spirit splash over the park in a watery, wintery, wonderland on select nights from Nov. 23-Dec. 31.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Happy New Year! Celebrate the New Year SeaWorld style with a spectacular musical celebration and bold fireworks for an unforgettable evening!

If you can’t wait until 2012 to enjoy all of the sea animals and fun SeaWorld has to offer you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. For just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children you can spend the day meeting Shamu, riding the mighty Kraken, spending some up-close-and-personal time with dolphins and so much more!

Stay tuned for more details on this year’s holiday fun at SeaWorld. The festivities start soon so make sure you check back soon.

Kardashians Set Opening Date for Boutique at Mirage

2011-11-07T15:43:44-05:00

Kardashian Klan has finally announced the opening date of the first Kardashian celebrity lifestyle retail boutique at the Mirage, and after months of waiting and delays, we can finally expect to visit the store in November.

The flagship store will feature products that sisters Kim, Kourtney, Khloe and mom Kris market, represent and endorse. In addition, there will be new specialty souvenir items and other limited-edition products exclusively designed by the girls, Kris and Cici Bussey.

Rumor has it that there will also be exciting surprises coordinated with the Mirage at the store.

“It’s hard to think of a brand that embodies fun, energy and excitement better than the Kardashian brand. The Kardashian women have developed an extraordinary international following, and we’re thrilled that the Mirage will play home to their first Las Vegas store, Kardashian Khaos,” said Felix Rappaport, Mirage president. “We look forward to a wonderful relationship with Kris, Kourtney, Kim and Khloe, and to welcoming their fans from around the world.”

Stay tuned for more details on the Kardashian’s Las Vegas business venture.

In other Las Vegas news, 40 NBA stars have agreed to compete in a new championship series headquartered right here in Vegas. Players are currently in a lockout, and training is supposed to start October 1 for the regular season opening November 1 if the situation is resolved.

But in the meantime, ESPN and Dime Sports reported that longtime NBA trainer Joe Abunassar has signed 40 NBA stars to compete in the Impact Training Competitive Basketball Series here.

Players rumored to participate include New York Knicks stars Chauncey Billups, Shawne Williams and Iman Shumpert; Washington Wizards guards John Wall and Shelvin Mack; Denver Nuggets forward Al Harrington; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph and guard Josh Selby; Portland Trail Blazers guard Armon Johnson; Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley; L.A. Clippers forward Al-Farpuq Aminu; and Milwaukee Bucks guard Stephen Jackson.

The mini-series could start as early as next week with six to eight teams of seven to eight players. The rules will mostly be the same as those in the NBA except for 10-minute quarters and new foul rules. Each team gets to designate a charity to benefit from ticket sales and proceeds.

Trainer Joe told ESPN: “I've trained guys for 15 years, and there’s nothing better than playing against high-level competition -- with NBA teammates playing together when possible. Instead of playing in a gym somewhere by themselves, now they’ve got an NBA five to play with. They’ve got guys that know rotations, they’ve got guys that know how to help. It’s going to be intense. Everyone’s into it.”

Stay tuned for more details on where the games will be played.

SeaWorld Unveils New Worlds

2011-11-08T13:59:48-05:00

For the past week SeaWorld Orlando has been hinting at a major announcement, and finally, after a suspenseful week they are revealing the major news today.

SeaWorld Orlando announced today that Turtle Trek – a 360-degree movie featuring sea turtles and manatees, will open at the park in Spring of 2012. It follows closely behind SeaWorld’s first journey to the big screen with “Turtle: The Incredible Journey” from the newly-formed SeaWorld Pictures division of the company. The experience will also feature new aquariums with live freshwater and saltwater fish, manatees and sea turtles.

The Discovery Cove park, SeaWorld’s sister park, will also receive a new attraction in 2012. Freshwater Oasis will feature face-to-face encounters with Asian otters and marmosets. This new attractions is considered to have a ‘rainforest’ element and will be mostly shallow, making it a perfect attraction for kids. This area takes the place of the previous saltwater reef, which closed when Discovery Cove recently opened its new Grand Reef.

The third attraction to hit the SeaWorld parks is called Antarctica-Empire of the Penguin. It’s SeaWorld’s biggest attraction expansion ever and will not be open until 2013. According to SeaWorld the attraction will be the coldest theme park in the world and is being described as an “incredible family adventure.” Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin will replace the existing penguin encounter with a whole new area of the park featuring a state-of-the-art new ride as well as interactions with penguins.

More details about all three attractions are expected later today, once SeaWorld formally makes its announcements so check back soon.

In the meantime, you can enjoy SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove’s current attractions with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. For just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children you can spend the day exploring everything SeaWorld Orlando has to offer including all of its aquatic sea creatures, shows and thrill rides.

After spending a day with Shamu and friends head over to Discovery Cove and check out their brand new attraction, The Grand Reef. Seek discoveries along the water’s edge or cross a bridge to see sharks swimming below in this unique attraction. Or make friends with the dolphins during a Dolphin Swim Experience. Come nose to nose with bottlenose dolphins, learn about dolphin behavior and even take an exciting dorsal fin ride back to shore!

And for the complete SeaWorld package check out OrlandoFunTickets.com’s SeaWorld and Aquatica Combo Ticket. For just $110.00 for adults and $105.00 for children you can explore both sea life parks for a fun-filled, marine-life weekend. For more SeaWorld Orlando and other SeaWorld park discounted tickets just click” SeaWorld tickets” right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

SeaWorld Unveils 3 New Attractions

2011-11-09T16:11:47-05:00

We told you yesterday, SeaWorld Orlando was adding three new attractions to its park within the next year and today we have more details on what, when and where those attractions will be.

It’s the largest expansion in SeaWorld’s history offering not one, not two but three new attractions, two of which will arrive just a few short months from now. And all we can say is, you better book your tickets now!

The first of the three new attractions, Turtle Trek features a 3D/360-degree dome SeaWorld claims is the first at any theme park in the world. Designers have combined a state-of-the-art animated film and projection system with a fully domed theater, creating a unique theatrical experience. Guests are promised a seamless, 3D virtual environment all around them, even over their heads.

The show tells the story of the vulnerable sea turtles and asks everyday heroes around the globe to help make a difference in saving animals in the wild.

Also opening next year is Freshwater Oasis, which will be going on top of Discovery Cove’s old saltwater reef.

"You're swimming up and the marmosets are going to be on the tree limbs, like, basically right in front of you," said Julie Scardina, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Animal Ambassador.

It also features face-to-face encounters with Asian otters and will be mostly shallow, making it perfect for children.

Creative Director Brian Morrow says if you're not "wading through trails flooded with water through a tropical jungle and finding animals," go ahead and "chillax" in this themed section. He encourages you to grab a cold one and plop down on the brightly colored Adirondack chairs that are built into the area.

But it’s the third, and largest attraction that is sure to please the masses – Antarctica-Empire of the Penguin.

“It is the most amazing place I’ve ever been, and I’ve been a lot of places,” Scardina said.

Guests will experience the mystery and wonder of the Antarctic life on the ice through the eyes of a penguin. The Antarctic attraction combines closer-than-ever animal connections.

But will there be a ride?

"Antarctica will have a physical element, what you term 'a ride.' We have trouble classifying it because it doesn't fall under any classifications. More on that to come later," teased Morrow.

The attraction isn’t opening until 2013 so all details of the ride will be kept secret until then. All we know is that guests will ride a simulated jet copter to the frozen south.

If you can’t wait until 2012 you can still enjoy all of the animals, rides and attractions SeaWorld has to offer with discounted SeaWorld tickets for just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children right here on

Orlando Theme Parks Celebrate Veterans Day 111111

2011-11-10T15:03:32-05:00

Nov. 11 will be quite a busy day for Orlando theme parks. Veterans Day and the calendar date 11/11/11 expects to bring in hundreds of veterans, bride and grooms-to-be and plenty of guests to some of Central Florida’s most popular theme parks.

Universal Orlando will be commemorating all of the men and women who have fought and continue to fight for our freedom with special ceremonies, parades and events. Members of the Universal Orlando Resort’s Veteran Network will participate in a parade through the Orlando theme park to commemorate the special day.

The parade will begin at 11 a.m. in front of the Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Revue attraction, and it will culminate with a ceremonial flag-raising in the New York area of the theme park.

Universal’s veterans will be joined by members of other organizations, including the Orlando Police Department, the American Legion, Orlando Fire Department Pipe & Drum Corps, high school JROTC units and the Jones High School marching band. Some Universal characters and performers will also participate in the march.

Universal says more than 400 of its team members have served in the U.S. military.

Both SeaWorld and Busch Gardens will be offering Active Duty Service Members free admission for them and 3 dependents. Here’s to the Heroes program is only available to active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsman.

A group of 11 couples from 11 different cities, including Salt Lake City, St Louis, Mo., and Makawao, Hawaii will say “I do” at Walt Disney World® on 11/11/11.

Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings hosts more than 1,000 nuptials per year, but the 11 weddings on Nov. 11 will be the first time that the number of nuptials coincides with the number of the month, day and year of the wedding.

“Our couples have always loved sequential number wedding dates and we are already beginning to hold space for 12/12/12,” said Korri McFann, Worldwide Marketing & Business Development Director, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. “Couples have even moved venues to make sure their wedding stays on one of these very special dates.”

If you’re not a veteran and not getting married tomorrow you can still enjoy all of the veteran and 11/11/11 parades and festivities with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Ride the movies at Universal Orlando tickets for just $84.00. Explore Africa’s wildest animals at Bush Gardens with tickets for only $75.00. Get up-close-and-personal with your favorite sea animals at SeaWorld for just $67.00 and make magical memories at Walt Disney World® with a 3-Day Magic Your Way® Base Ticket for only $231.00. We’ll see you tomorrow with more 11/11/11 news!

11 Couples to Tie the Knot At Disney World on 111111

2011-11-11T15:22:57-05:00

The calendar date 11/11/11 has more people running to the alter more than any other day of the year. There’s just something about the lucky date that has couples saying, “I do” all over town and today 11 of those couples will be tying the knot at the Walt Disney World Resort® for a fairytale wedding that only comes once every 100 years.

And while there are only 11 lucky couples saying their vows on 11/11/11 marketing and business development director for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, Korri McFann, says the number of couples chosen is purely a coincidence.

McFann says her staff didn’t even realize the similarity until they started counting the weddings planned for Friday.

“You will be hard pressed as a regular day guest at the Walt Disney World Resort® not to see a couple somewhere,” McFann said.

Today’s 11/11/11 weddings will take place at a variety of locations at the Walt Disney World Resort®, including Disney’s® Wedding Pavilion, Epcot™, Disney’s® Boardwalk and Disney’s® Polynesian Resort.

McFann says each of the couples has a unique explanation for why they wanted to get married on such a unique date. A Jacksonville couple has made a wish every day at 11:11. For a couple from Pennsylvania, Nov. 11 is the date of the groom’s grandparent’s 56th wedding anniversary. Another couple from Hawaii took the date more symbolically.

“They thought the 11/11 looked like two people coming together. People are deep!” McFann said. “People really want something meaningful behind their weddings. They want something to remember it by. If you can have a clever date, why not?”

Several of the couples got engaged at Disney® so it’s only fitting they get married there too. A local Orlando pair actually met when they were working at Disney’s Hollywood Studios™ together. But not every wedding Disney® helps plan each year started at the park.

“A lot of people who may never have been to Walt Disney World® travel here. We’re known in the destination weddings business of being able to handle absolutely everything,” McFann said.

Today, 4 couples will even board the Disney Cruise Line to say their vows. Three will get married at Aulani, Disney’s® new resort in Hawaii, and eight will mark the occasion at the Disneyland Resort in California.

In all, Disney® says 40,000 couples have married at Walt Disney World®, Disneyland and on the ships of the Disney Cruise Line.

And what about next year’s calendar date of 12/12/12? McFann says the requests are already rolling in.

For your own tickets to Walt Disney World® today you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Walt Disney World Tests New Theme Park Entry System

2011-11-14T11:02:05-05:00

It looks like Walt Disney World® guests can look forward to shorter entry times into Disney’s® parks with a new technology that eliminates the need for turnstiles.

On Sunday Epcot® guests placed a chip-equipped ticket up to a Mickey Mouse-themed device and after a quick finger scan, a green light let them know they could enter the park. Walt Disney World’s® newest technology uses radio-frequency identification (RFID), which allows tiny electronic chips to be scanned without the use of lasers or barcodes. It also stores information, giving Disney’s guests quicker entry into theme parks.

Guests visiting Epcot® yesterday had the option of having their tickets scanned and then equipped with a Mickey Mouse ticket with an embedded RFID chip, encoded with the same information found on the ticket’s magnetic strip, normally used for entering the park. Assuming yesterday’s tests went well, all future guests to the Orlando theme park will be using tickets with the RFID chips embedded inside them.

The process is quite simple. Upon approaching the new RFID scanners, guests simply hold out their chip-equipped tickets up to the Mickey Mouse head shape, then place a finger onto the biometric scanner, and wait for the green light to pass through. If it seems like the new RFID technology may take longer than simply walking through a turnstile reports suggest it is actually a faster process, taking only a few seconds.

While lines may still form leading up to these new scanners, the goal is to reduce the amount of time each guest spends in using a ticket to enter the park, ultimately reducing the wait time to get in.

Rumors of Disney using RFID throughout their theme parks have been around for a while, indicating that not only could guests enter the park using this technology, but also to purchase items within the park (like many credit card companies’ existing scan-and-pay options), as well as in interactive and personalized experiences throughout theme park attractions and shows. So it seems possible yesterday’s Epcot® test was more than just a way to cut down entry time to the park, but the beginning of the future in how Disney guests enjoy the theme park experience.

This is the second time Disney has tested a turnstile-free entry into Epcot®. The first happened in March, featuring rows of barcode scanners. At the time Disney commented, “Our teams are always trying out new ideas – stay tuned to see if this makes it into the parks.” This statement probably holds true for the new RFID test. We’ll just have to wait and see if the RFID system will become a permanent way to enter Disney’s theme parks, making for an even more magical experience!

Harry Potter Cast Reassembles at Wizarding World

2011-11-15T12:16:47-05:00

Universal Orlando celebrated the final chapter of one of the most successful movie franchises ever with a weekend-long party at Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2” raked in $1.3 billion worldwide, making it the third all-time box office champ. On Friday, the film came out on DVD and Blue-Ray and Universal celebrated its release with a celebration that included question and answer sessions with some of the cast and crew of the movie, a red carpet premiere, a VIP party and other goodies.

The actor who played Ron Weasley, Rupert Grint, says the creative teams at Universal and Warner Brothers’ got all the details right inside the “Wizarding World of Harry Potter.”

“It’s very similar kind of scenery for us. They did an amazing job creating this world. It’s just amazing.”

Grint was the final rider aboard the headline attraction, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” on Saturday night before the ride closed for the evening.

Meantime, Evanna Lynch, who played “Luna Lovegood,” has an idea for a Wizarding World of Harry Potter expansion.

“I hope it gets bigger,” she said. “I would love a Luna ride. All other creatures [could] come to life.”

Over at the Butterbeer station, actors James and Oliver Phelps could not wait to get a taste of the famous drink. The twins said the refreshing drink at Universal is better than what they were served on the sets of the film. Both remember an orange fruit punch in England, but prefer the different varieties in Orlando. But when asked, the twins could not agree on what was better: Frozen or Liquid.

“I say liquid because it’s a lot quicker,” Oliver said. “In the peak of summer, the frozen one,” James recommends.

Neither Daniel Radcliffe who played Harry Potter, nor Emma Watson who portrayed Hermione Granger were in attendance but it didn’t seem to make a difference to the fans.

“Just knowing that the stars who made the movies are in the park, like feet away from me, and I cannot contain myself,” said Gabby Lawlor, a fan from South Florida.

For young people, the Harry Potter films have become the hero’s journey for their generation.

“I would kinda compare it to Star Wars for them, because that was big a while ago,” said Jackie Lawlor another fan from South Florida. “I mean I liked those movies too.”

And for many, both young and old, Harry’s troubles are relatable.

“All of the struggles he goes through; a lot of the struggles are what everyone of us has to go through,” Bodisch said. “Loneliness, being accepted into a group.”

For your own Wizarding World of Harry Potter adventure you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com starting at just $84.00.

SeaWorld Adds New Show to Christmas Lineup

2011-11-16T14:49:55-05:00

SeaWorld Orlando is adding some new holiday cheer to their holiday lineup this year. The Orlando theme park will introduce a festive show based on the Christmas story and told through the eyes of animals during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration events, which kick off Nov. 25.

The new “O Wondrous Night” includes puppet versions of animals at the nativity scene and their live counterparts, such as a donkey and a camel. The production features all-original music and will be produced in the Nautilus Theater, the home to “A’lure … The Call of the Ocean.”

SeaWorld Orlando’s other holiday shows returning this year include, “Winter Wonderland on Ice,” an ice-skating show filled with towering fountains of water and show-stopping figure skating you don’t want to miss; “Shamu Christmas Miracles,” the killer-whale show that pairs thrilling seasonal music with one of the sea’s most majestic creatures; the comedic “Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas;” and “A Sesame Street Christmas” where Elmo, Telly Monster and the rest of the Sesame Street gang teach a young girl what Christmas means to them.

Guests can also enjoy the Polar Express Experience, a seasonal overlay of the Wild Arctic ride. Board the Polar Express for a wondrous journey to the North Pole. Guests will be immersed in the beloved holiday classic story of a young boy’s thrilling ride into an enchanted world. You’ll even meet Santa Claus on your journey!

Returning for a second year are the Sea of Trees, dozens of sparkling and choreographed tress glimmering above the park’s center lake, and the Christmas Market with food and shopping along Bayside Pathway.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration ends with “Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Finale.”

You can catch all of SeaWorld Orlando’s holiday fun daily Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 25 through Dec. 11 and nightly beginning Dec. 16-31.

Walt Disney World® is also spreading the holiday cheer this year by matching employee’s donations to charities and schools. The new program is called “Disney Employee Matching Gifts: A program of The Walt Disney Company Foundation.”

Disney Employee Matching Gifts promotes Disney’s culture of giving by encouraging their employees to get more involved in and support causes they believe in.

The Walt Disney Company Foundation will match cast member contributions, up to $15,000 per employee, per calendar year, to any educational institution in the U.S. as well as thousands of charitable organizations around the world that align with Disney’s core philanthropic philosophy: Compassion, Conservation and Creativity.

You can spend your holidays with either SeaWorld Orlando or Walt Disney World® with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. SeaWorld tickets start at just $67.00 and Walt Disney World® tickets start at only $231.00 for an adult 3-Day Magic Your Way Base Ticket.

Universal Orlando Goes Green

2011-11-17T09:53:19-05:00

In honor of NBC’s “Green Week,” which kicked off on Nov. 13, OrlandoFunTickets.com thought it appropriate to find out which Orlando theme parks are making the effort to be a little more “green” for their guests.

Universal Orlando recently introduced new ways to recycle within the park, allowing for environmentally cautious guests to take part in a greener Universal. The Orlando theme park recently released this statement about its newest recycling programs:

In continued support of our Green is Universal initiatives and our focus on waste reduction this year, our Park Services team is proud to introduce two new ways to recycle.

Park map recycling bins are now located at the exits of both parks. The bins have specially designed slots for park maps and provide a way to be green for guests who do not wish to keep their park map as a souvenir.

In addition, based on a Productivity Plus suggestion, poncho recycling bins have been placed at the exit of Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls. Park Services received feedback that guests were purchasing ponchos to use on the ride and then throwing them away upon exiting. The team researched vendors that could recycle the poncho material and then partnered with the Creative Department to design themed recycling containers for the ponchos. “Our team continues to put a tremendous focus on our recycling efforts,” says Chris Hecht, Sr. Manager of Park Services. “These creative initiatives will further support our commitment of capturing as much recyclable waste as possible around our resort.”

Universal Orlando has over 2,100 recycling locations throughout their resorts and many more on the way! Aside form their recycling efforts, the Orlando theme park is continuing to stay green with biodiesel-fueled vehicles, including boats. They also use environmentally preferred cleaning products and collect recycle shrink-wrap across the property.

And that’s not all! So far in 2011 Universal Orlando has recycled over 169 tons of plastic bottles, 20 tons of aluminum cans, 837 tons of cardboard, 547 tons of yard waste and 2,500 pallets. They have replaced air compressors in three attractions with high efficiency models, saving 1.4 million kilowatts annually. Universal has also replaced maintenance lighting in various locations, saving them 700,000 kilowatt hours annually. Reclaimed water used in CEPI and II cooling towers has saved Universal more than 60 million gallons of potable water. Low-flow urinals installed resort-wide are saving an estimated 42 million gallons of water annually and lighting controls in the parking garages are currently being replaced, reducing energy usage by 22%! Talk about being green!

To see Universal Orlando’s “green” initiatives for yourself, just browse “Universal Tickets” right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. And remember, the next time you’re in the park look for those recycling bins and help Universal stay green!

Busch Gardens Begins Christmas Shows Hangs Decorations This Weekend

2011-11-18T12:22:06-05:00

In an official press release, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announced their annual holiday festivities will kick off this weekend, and includes the return of several holiday classics as well as special entertainment and fireworks for the New Year.

From Nov. 19 to Jan. 1, Busch Gardens presents Christmas on Ice, a limited-engagement ice-skating show bringing a graceful winter wonderland to life. New to this year’s holiday lineup, this guest favorite is moving to the park’s Moroccan Palace, which will soon be home to the all-new Iceploration, opening 2-12.

The Marrakesh Theater will be turned into a holiday extravaganza with Christmas from the Heart, featuring inspiring holiday gospel and spiritual songs performed by a live choir. In Desert Grill, join a Christmas Celebration, the musical extravaganza featuring seasonal songs, tap-dancing toy soldiers and fun for the whole family!

Guests can hang out with Santa and his merry elves fro breakfast at Desert Grill from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Dec. 3 and 10. Enjoy exciting photo opportunities with St. Nick and his holiday elves, followed by a fabulous performance of the traditional family favorite Christmas Celebration. Keep in mind this is an additional ticket on top of Busch Gardens tickets.

You don’t have to go to the Desert Grill to experience Christmas in Busch Gardens. The Men of Note, spectacular poinsettias, festive decorations and classic holiday music will transform the rest of the park into a holiday wonderland featuring a cappella carols.

And if you’re looking to enjoy the Tampa Bay theme park for the New Year, you can count down to 2012 with the biggest party Busch Gardens has ever thrown! Get a wild welcome to 2012 with the band None Other playing popular party hits all evening long in Gwazi Park, followed by fireworks at midnight for the ultimate New Year’s Eve Celebration on the 31st.

To experience any of Busch Gardens’ holiday excitement you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Tickets just start at $75.00 for adults and $68.00 for children.

And while you’re experiencing the joy of the holidays at Busch Gardens, don’t’ forget to check out the parks newest additions – a female Cape buffalo and a female Sable Antelope. The female calf, born Sept. 21 weighed 45 pounds at birth but can weigh up to 2,000 pounds once full grown. On Sept. 23 the Sable Antelope was born and she took her first steps within minutes of birth! Guests can see both new babies from Rhino Rally, the Skyride or Serengeti Express.

Walt Disney World Awarded Four Themed Entertainment Awards

2011-11-21T17:34:36-05:00

The force was certainly with Walt Disney World® when Star Tours – The Adventures Continue earned one of the four top Disney honors among the 18th annual Thea Awards announced by the Themed Entertainment Association.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue Received a TEA Award for Outstanding Achievement – Attraction refresh. Other top awards went to The agic, The Memories, and You! at Magic KingdomÔ for Outstanding Achievement – Show Spectacular and to Animation Magic at Animator’s Palate aboard the soon-to-launch Disney Fantasy cruise ship for ingenious use of Technology.

Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde received the Buzz Price TEA Award Recognizing a Lifetime of Distinguished Achievement. Joe recently lead the team that created and built Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and who recently oversaw the creative development of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii.

A 30-year Disney veteran, Rohde says he is grateful to TEA “for their gracious consideration of my name and efforts.

“It’s a great honor to be counted among the names that are already graced with this recognition,” Rohde says. “I hope that I’ll have the opportunity for a few more lifetime achievements to flesh out my portfolio a bit, and better deserve the honor.”

TEA International Board President Rick Rothschild says Rohde represents “the continuing creative energy within our industry” and that “he’s a legend in his own time, of course.”

The awards, to be presented at a March gala at the Disneyland Hotel, pay tribute to excellence in the creation of extraordinary experiences, attractions, exhibits and places around the world. Rothschild says the themed entertainment industry is “producing wonderful examples of achievement in a broader and broader market.” But the technology is just a part of the process.

“It all starts with story, and that’s certainly a thing well understood by Disney and by our industry,” says Rothschild, adding that the themed-entertainment creative bar gets higher each year. “The proficiency and capabilities availed by technological advances do certainly play into the bar, but it’s not technology alone. It’s the creative ingenuity of the individuals at all levels of our industry that challenge themselves to discover new ways of storytelling.”

The TEA Awards praised Star Tours – The Adventures Continue for staying true to the “Star Wars” stories and for the attraction’s “breakthrough experience” featuring new story elements, advanced special effects, guest interaction, and 54 potential show scenarios.

The Magic, The Memories, and You! projection show at Cinderella Castle inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort won the top “Spectacular” category for its technology, visual creativity, adept directorial pacing and stirring musical score that deliver a “unique, emotionally fulfilling experience for the audience.”

To experience Star Tours and The Magic, The Memories, and You! for yourself you can find discounted tickets right here at OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Candlelight Processional at Epcot to Feature Top Celebs

2011-11-22T16:46:53-05:00

Walt Disney World’s® annual Candlelight Processional at Epcot® will feature some of Hollywood’s biggest stars including Academy award-winning actress Mira Sorvino, who returns to the Orlando theme park Nov. 25-27 for the enormously popular Disney® celebration that will continue nightly through Dec. 30, 2011.

Sorvino is one of over a dozen celebrities, ranging from contemporary Christian and country music artists to soap opera legend and award-winning actor, who will take the stage for a retelling of the Christmas story. A 50-piece orchestra and mass choir at Epcot® American Gardens Theatre for performances will accompany the stars at 5, 6:45, and 8:15 p.m. most nights. The lineup includes:

Nov. 25-27: Mira SorvinoNov. 28-Dec. 1: Michael W. SmithDec. 2-3: Geena DavisDec. 4-6: Edward James Olmos (guest shows at 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. only)Dec. 7-9: Isabella RosselliniDec. 10-12: Neil Patrick HarrisDec. 13-15: Lorraine BraccoDec. 16-18: Chita RiveraDec. 19-21: Trace AdkinsDec. 22-24: Susan LucciDec. 25-27: Blair UnderwoodDec. 28-30: Marlee Matlin

The Candlelight Processional is one of Walt Disney World’s® most famed events. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit as thousands gather to hear celebrities retell the famous Christmas story. The unforgettable spectacle often fill sup quickly so make sure you get there early in order to enjoy the festivities. You can find discounted Epcot® tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

In addition to the Candlelight Processional, guests can delight in the sights and sounds of the season with Epcot’s® Holidays Around the World. The international celebrations of Yuletide traditions are filled with festive decorations and live entertainment everybody in the family will enjoy!

Throughout the World Showcase, international storytellers share traditions and tales from their homeland. Guests can learn about the good-hearted witch La Befana, known in Italy for filling children’s shoes with treats, or the jolly gift-bearer Father Christmas in the United Kingdom. There are even meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Clause in the American Adventure, plus other legendary icons who share messages of goodwill. The celebration of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are celebrated as well.

At the end of the night, guests can enjoy the mesmerizing show, “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.” Located on World Showcase Lagoon, this fantastical show features fireworks, laser lights and water choreographed to a musical soundtrack – with a holiday finale.

Walt Disney World® has plenty of other holiday festivities and fun in store this year so make sure you visit the other three parks for more holiday magic. You can find 2-Day Magic Your® Way Park Hopper® Tickets starting at just $229.90 for adults and $217.00 for children right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. And don’t forget, with all of the holiday decorations up and events beginning this weekend, Walt Disney World® is the perfect place to spend your Thanksgiving too!

SeaWorld Orlando Offers Details On New Christmas Show

2011-11-23T15:43:17-05:00

SeaWorld Orlando released more details about its newest seasonal show, “O Wondrous Night – The Greatest Story Never Told” yesterday. The production debuts Friday as part of SeaWorld’s Christmas Spectacular programming.

If you’re planning on making a trip to the Orlando theme park this holiday season, here’s what you can expect from the park’s newest performance:

+ The 30-minute show will feature puppetry and dance, backed by a collection of traditional music. The plot is the Christmas story, told from the perspective of the animals present.+ The puppets will be replaced — at a key “magical moment” — with corresponding real animals. Look for sheep, doves, an alpaca, an ox (actually, a zebu) and three camels on stage. “Kids in the audience will begin to ascribe the personality of the puppets into the real animals once they are on stage,” says show director BT McNicholl.+ Working with the animals hasn’t been too tough, McNicholl says. “They are unique animals. They needn’t do tricks,” he says. After making their entrance, they are walked from spot to spot by handlers. “We did think of the end of the show as a pageant, with a lot of majesty,” McNicholl says.+ More than 35 songs are woven into the show, says musical director Ben Cohn. The goal was to “make it young, contemporary, sort of ‘Glee’ style – a pop sensibility,” he says.+ The different styles of music naturally lead to different styles of dance. There will be somber, etheral, pretty parts as well as lively stretches. “We get a little funky, which is fun,” says choreographer Wendy Seyb. During the gospel set, “we just bring down the house,” she says. “We have some tambourines. Need I say more?”+ The show will be produced twice per evening on the select nights of SeaWorld’s Christmas Spectacular. It will be staged in the 2,500-seat Nautilus Theater, home of “A’lure — The Call of the Ocean” show, which will continue to be staged during the day throughout the holiday season. “Hopefully, this big, humongous set will surprise people,” says McNicholl. One of its tricks: going from small puppet-scaled manger to manger big enough to accommodate camels.+ The story is obviously biblical in nature, “the themes are very universal,” say Michael Fletcher, SeaWorld’s vice president of entertainment. He lists faith, hope and comfort as among those themes.+ Manhattanbased Cohn and Seyb say their biggest surprise about the production was the mere size of the camels. “We don’t get that in New York,” Seyb says. “It’s pretty fantastic.”+ SeaWorld’s Christmas Spectacular operates Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 11, then it assumes a nightly rotation from Dec. 16 to Dec. 31. “O Wondrous Night” and other holiday shows are included in regular theme-park admission.

Whats New in Orlando Theme Parks This Week

2011-11-29T15:48:10-05:00

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us Orlando theme parks are kicking their holiday efforts into high gear. If you’re planning a visit to Orlando this weekend here’s what you kind of holiday fun you can expect to find:

The Macy’s Holiday Parade returns to Universal Orlando for the 10th year beginning Saturday. Universal will also host the Mannheim Steamroller concert on Saturday and Sunday. Show time is 7 p.m. on both nights. The holiday music supergroup will be back at the park the following two weekends as well. The Grinch takes over Islands of Adventure in the stage show called “Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacualr,” (formerly known as “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”). The production runs multiple times daily through Jan. 1.

At Walt Disney World®, Epcot® lights up the park with the annual Candlelight Processional. Celebrity narrators for the week include Michael W. Smith (Nov. 28-Dec. 1), Geena Davis (Dec. 2-3) and Edward James Olmos (Dec. 4-6).

Magic Kingdom’s™ Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins Nov. 29 and runs Nov. 30 and Dec. 2 and 4 for the week.

Seaworld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration continues with special programming – including the new stage show “O Wondrous Night, the Greatest Story Never Told” on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is getting into the holiday spirit this year with the first-ever “Holidays in Space” events. The new events include learning about the holiday traditions of the countries that are International Space Station partners, including Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States.

Guests will also be able to enjoy a 42-foot, ISS-themed Christmas tree in the Rocket Garden, international carolers in astronaut flight suits performing favorite holiday songs as well as 20-minute sessions on the 40-foot-by-40-foot Space Skating Rink with synthetic, polymer surface set up in the Rocket Garden. Sessions begin on the hour and half-hour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Skate rental is an additional charge.

Santa Claus will even be greeting guests and posing for photographs at Santa’s Launch Control Center. Mrs. Claus will have story time, using “The Cat in the Hat – There’s No Place Like Space” and other books. Mrs. Clause will make appearances at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. daily.

The Clauses will be at the space center through Dec. 24, and the rest of the activities will run through Jan. 1. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex holiday events are included in the price of admission.

You can find discounted tickets to any of the above listed Orlando theme parks right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

Disney to Expand ESPNs Wide World of Sports

2011-11-30T17:15:24-05:00

Walt Disney World® announced plans Tuesday to expand the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex.Officials at the Orlando theme park said additional playing fields are planned as well as more lights, digital video boards and audio systems. They said the goal is to provide athletes with a one-of-a-kind sports experience.

Published reports said the project will add 25 acres to the 270-acre complex and should be completed by early 2012. The new playing fields will be used for football, soccer, lacrosse and field hockey.The ESPN Wide World of Sports complex at Walt Disney World® opened in 1997 and currently offers several different sporting venues including Champion Stadium – a 9,500 seat baseball stadium; Jostens Center – a 44,800-square-foot arena; Hess Sports Fields – eight multiple purpose fields; baseball Quadraplex – four professional baseball fields and one practice infield; Softball Diamondplex – which consits of six fields used for softball and youth baseball; Centre Court Stadium – a 1,000 to 8,500 seat ten-court tennis complex; Cross Country Course – consists of multi-purpose fields, the Track and Field Complex, and a 0.7-mile wooded trail; and the Track and Field Complex – a 500-seat competition facility for track and field events.

With these wonderful amenities, the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex hosts a variety of athletic events and programs for amateur youth athletes, including tournament play, sports camps and academies and elite-level showcase events leading to college recruitment throughout the year.

Other facilities within the complex include the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill. The grill is open during most events. Located at the ESPN Grill is the PlayStation Pavilion, where guests can enjoy several PlayStation 3 consoles with the latest sports games.

The sports complex is also home to ESPN Innovation Lab, a facility dedicated to advancing sports television technology as well as the Atlanta Braves Spring Training, AAU Sports National Championships, Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer & Dance Championships and the ESPNHS Games.

Stay tuned for more details on the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex expansion at Walt Disney World®. In the meantime you can experience the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex on your next Disney visit. And if you need discounted tickets for your trip you can find them right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. 3-Day Magic Your Way® Base Tickets start at just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children.

And if you are planning on making a trip to Disney this month don’t forget to check out Disney’s many Christmas events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom®. Tickets start at $56.50.

Characters from UP to Begin Meet and Greets at Animal Kingdom

2011-12-01T17:35:47-05:00

Walt Disney World’s® Animal Kingdom™ will soon begin meet and greets with characters from the Disney-Pixar film ‘UP’.

Animal Kingdom™ is currently going through a number of changes to their entertainment offerings. Guests to the park will soon see Jiminy Cricket and Pocahontas leaving Rafiki’s Planet watch (Planet Watch is the only place in Walt Disney World® where you can meet Jiminy Cricket), along with Turk, Lilo and Stitch, and the end of “The Adventure Begins” welcome show and the “Adventurers Celebration Gathering” goodbye show.

But you don’t have to wait until the changes are complete to experience all of the animals, excitement and holiday events at Animal Kingdom™. Now through Jan. 3, guests to the animal theme park can watch Mickey and his Savannah friends as they celebrate the season safari style in the Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade.

Animal Kingdom™ transforms their usual “Mickey’s Jamin’ Jungle Parade” into a holiday version complete with characters aboard whimsical floats and puppetry with a holiday world-beat twist. Guests to the parade will also be able to meet Disney characters decked out in their holiday best at Camp Minnie-Mickey, which also features live seasonal entertainment, holiday photo opportunities and two-dozen festively adorned Christmas trees.

The Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade isn’t the only jolly holiday event that guests will be able to enjoy. Listen to the sounds of the season as carolers greet guests with favorite holiday melodies near a towering themed 65-foot Christmas tree at the park’s entrance.

In addition to the holiday events, you can enjoy the many different animals, rides and entertainment at Animal Kingdom™ all year round. Home to 1,700 animals from 250 species across 500 acres of lush landscape, Disney’s Animal Kingdom™ is the largest animal-themed park in the world! And with that comes 7 different areas for your enjoyment: Oasis, Discovery Island area, Camp Minnie-Mickey, Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch area, Asia, Dinoland, U.S.A. area.

Some of Animal Kingdom’s™ most popular attractions include Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro, Festival of the Lion King, Finding Nemo-The Musical, DINOSOUR, It’s Tough to be a Bug!, Kali River Rapids and so much more!

For tickets to Animal Kingdom™ or any of Walt Disney World’s® other three parks click “discounted Disney” tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Disney’s® Magic Your Way Base Tickets start at $128.00 for children and $140.00 for adults. If you’d like to experience all of Disney’s seasonal events you might want to check out a Magic Your Way Park Hopper Ticket. The Park Hopper Ticket let’s you jump from park-to-park in one day so you can enjoy all of the magic Disney® has to offer, which is perfect for the holiday season. 3-day Park Hopper tickets start at $167.00 for adults and $156.00 for children.

Universal Orlando To Close Jaws Attraction

2011-12-02T15:46:43-05:00

It’s a sad day at Universal Orlando as the Orlando theme park has announced plans to close its popular “Jaws” attraction. The iconic ride which tour boats full of guests are attacked by a robotic great white shark, will permanently close Jan. 2 to make way for a new attraction.

"We must always work to provide new, innovative entertainment experiences for our guests," Universal officials said in a statement. "We know "Jaws" holds a special place in the hearts of our guests, and we have put a great deal of thought and care into this decision."

Universal also notes that, since Jaws is an important part of the park's history, "we’ve got a couple things planned to ensure we always remember and honor it."

The ride, based on the 1975 movie directed by famed director and Universal theme-park consultant Steven Spielberg, was one of the original attractions in Universal Studios when the park opened in 1990.

The surrounding Amity-themed area around the attraction will also be closed “to make room for what will be an exciting new attraction experience,” Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said.

"Jaws has been an amazing attraction and an important part of our history. We know that Jaws holds a special place in the hearts of our guests," Schroder said. "But we always have to look to the future and dedicate ourselves to providing new, innovative entertainment experiences for our guests.” Universal said employees who work on the attraction or in the surrounding environment will be moved into other areas of the resort. Two other attractions in the area, Disaster! and Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue, will not be affected.

After 18 months of being leapfrogged by its second park, Islands of Adventure, which has been drawing massive crowds since opening The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in June 2010, it’s no surprise Universal Orlando is trying to inject new life into its attraction and entertainment offerings.

Another new Universal Studios attraction — a 3-D ride based on the 2010 animated film "Despicable Me" — is scheduled to open next year.

Park officials said they're anxious to share details of their plans for the area, and will make an announcement in "due time."

And while we’re sad to see “Jaws” go we’re excited for the future of the theme park and anxious to see what replaces the infamous attraction! But before it goes, make sure you get one last “Jaws” ride with discounted tickets to Universal Orlando right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Adult 1-Day Universal Base Tickets start at just $84.00 and Children 1-day Base Tickets are only $78.00. And don’t forget to check out Universal’s holiday events like the 10th Anniversary Macy’s Holiday Parade now through Dec. 31.

Kids Battling Cancer Get Magical trip to Orlando Theme Parks

2011-12-05T14:51:21-05:00

Fifty kids from across the country and with all different kinds of cancer are embarking on a magical trip to help them forget about being sick and focus on just being a kid.

For the next five days, kids involved in the Ohr Meir Foundation, a foundation that focuses on bringing a feeling of joy and hope to the hearts of sick children by giving them a break from their rigorous treatment schedules will have the great opportunity to visit two of Orlando’s most famed theme parks – SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World®. The kids will get to ride one roller coaster after another, see live entertainment and just enjoy taking a break from their illnesses.

As the Ohr Foundation arrived at the airport, the energy was high with kids showing off their dance moves and bright smiles, before boarding the plane.

“I went through chemo for a year and I had seven rounds of chemo and 31 radiations,” said Rivka Buchbinder.

Rivka is just a 13-year-old and was diagnosed with a rare cancer last year.

She joined the Ohr Foundation as a way to meet other kids like her. And so far, the group has found a way to make her dreams come true.

“Hanging around with kids of the same type, that they can share their experiences with and don’t feel like the odd one out, they feel like they are one of the group and it’s tremendous energy,” said chaperone Steven Friedman.

“It’s like everybody is full of energy, you could never tell, it’s nice,” said Buchbinder.

The kids landed in Orlando on Sunday and headed straight to SeaWorld Orlando.

Today, they visit the most magical place on Earth, Walt Disney World®, where they will have a private photo session with Mickey and Minnie.

A volunteer doctor stays with them just in case, but this trip is all about kids being kids and living their life to the fullest.

As a final surprise for the kids, the Orlando trip will end with a stop at Toys R’ Us where each kid will be able to roam the aisles and pick out $150 worth of merchandise!

This is the Ohr Meir Foundation’s 19th year bringing the group on the magical trips.

To make somebody else’s theme park dreams come true or to spend the holidays experiencing SeaWorld and Walt Disney’s® special seasonal events don’t forget to look for discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

SeaWorld tickets start at just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children. Or pay just $231.00 for an adult 3-day magic Your Way Base ticket and only $213.00 for a child 3-day magic Your Way Base ticket at Walt Disney World®.

Expect Mannheim Neil Patrick Harris and More This Week at Orlando Theme Parks

2011-12-06T17:03:58-05:00

There’s so much going on this time of year at Orlando’s many theme parks OrlandoFunTickets.com thought they’d break it all down for you so you know where to go when this holiday season. Here’s what you can expect to find this week at Orlando’s top theme parks:

Now that Universal’s holiday programming has begun guests can see the stage show “Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular” multiple times daily at Islands of Adventure. And don’t forget to watch the Macy’s Holiday Parade each afternoon at Universal Orlando through Dec. 31. If you’ll be at the park this Saturday and Sunday make sure you make some time to listen to Mannheim Steamroller as they perform their holiday hits live onstage at the Studios’ Music Plaza!

Over at Walt Disney World® narrators for this week’s Candlelight Processional at Epcot™ include Edward James Olmos on Monday and Tuesday, Isabella Rossellini on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and Neil Patrick Harris on Saturday, Sunday and next Monday. Show times are 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. daily.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom™ runs Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday this week. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s® Hollywood Studios™ run daily as does Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade at Disney’s® Animal Kingdom™. Keep in mind Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separate ticket.

SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration – featuring figure skating, a killer-whale show, “O Wondrous Night” and more festive holiday events – resumes Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The celebration goes into every night rotation beginning Dec. 16.

Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex continue now through Jan. 1. Guests can celebrate the holidays aboard the International Space Station with astronauts and cosmonauts from as many as 15 different countries. Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause will even greet guests at the Launch Control Center and guests will even get to ice skate at the Space Skating Rink and experience a 42’ ISS-themed Christmas tree in the Rocket Garden.

For tickets to any of the above mentioned holiday events in Orlando check right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Tickets to both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure start at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children. 3-Day Magic Your Way Base tickets to Walt Disney World® are just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children. SeaWorld Orlando tickets are just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children and Kennedy Space Center tickets are only $39.00 for adults and $31.00 for children.

Stay tuned for more Orlando theme park holiday news.

Walt Disney World Casts Spells Burns Rubber in 2012

2011-12-08T09:07:00-05:00

Just on the heels of Universal Resorts’ announcement of the expansion of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in both Hollywood and Orlando, Walt Disney World® is casting its own spell over Orlando with a new magic attraction at Magic Kingdom™.

Cast members at Walt Disney World® began testing a new interactive experience called Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom™ today. Featuring unprecedented interaction with animated characters, Sorcerers of Magic Kingdom™ transforms Adventureland into an immersive game enabling fans to cast spells.

In the role-playing, trading card game, players try to defeat the Disney Villains who are working to take over the Magic Kingdom. Guests will be armed with magic spells in the form of special cards and must search for the magic symbols that lead them to the animated villains’ hiding places.

By casting different magical spell cards, these Sorcerers can do battle with Yzma, Kronk and other ne’er do wells hiding throughout the land. Fireballs, frantic frogs and cyclones are just a few of the spells guests can use to bring down the villains, all with a flick of the wrist.

While still in its testing phase, Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom™ is expected to be available to guests early next year.

In addition to warding off Disney® villains with magic spells, Walt Disney World® will be burning some rubber next year with the new “Exotic Driving Experience” at its speedway.

The latest offering from Petty Holdings, the “Exotic Driving Experience” allows drivers to safely experience the awe-inspiring acceleration, speed and handling of a “supercar” – a rarified class of automobile.

Exotic Driving Experience will feature supercars by Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi and Porsche. Future plans include the addition of other exotic models, as well.

“This exotics business is the most significant new offering from our company since the creation of Richard Petty Driving Experience in 1994″ said Brian Flynn, Petty Holdings Chief Executive Officer. “This was a strategic decision intended to expand our customer base by diversifying our experiential offerings.”

Plans call for Exotic Driving Experience to operate approximately 150 days annually on The Exotics Course at Walt Disney World Speedway, a new track configuration at the motorsports complex.

The price of the rides are not included in Disney® admission and will start at $189 for six laps around the circuit.

The Exotic Driving Experience officially begins on January 16, 2012.

Stay tuned for more details on the speedy new attraction as well as the Sorcerers of Magic Kingdom™.

To start your New Year out with a sorcerer or supercar, you can find discounted Disney® tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. 3-Day Disney® Magic Your Way Base Tickets start at just $231.00 for adults and $213.00 for children.

Walt Disney World Plans Surprise Announcement On New Years Eve

2011-12-08T17:22:57-05:00

2012 promises to be a year of change and surprises for Walt Disney World®. The Orlando revealed today plans to offer “a special surprise announcement” on New Year’s Eve.

The official Disney website said, “2012 will bring seasonal events, new attractions and special experiences to the Walt Disney World theme parks, water parks and Downtown Disney Area. Get descriptions, details and—most importantly—dates, so you can start planning today!

This coming year is Leap Year and Disney plans on celebrating February 29, 2012 with something new as part of 2012 being dubbed “the Year of More Magic.” Recent years’ promotions offered guest opportunities to enter the parks for free, either on their birthdays or by volunteering their time. 2010’s “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” was intended to allow guests to trade service for free admission throughout the year, but maxed out the free ticket offer within just a couple months. It’s not clear what Disney® plans to offer for “leap day” in 2012.

The Orlando theme park has also announced plans to unveil “more than just Leap Year” in 2012, from regular special events including the Epcot™ International Flower and Garden Festival, Epcot™ International Food and Wine Festival, and Star Wars Weekends, to new additions like the debut of the first phases of New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom™, with Storybook Circus opening early in the year, followed by Fantasyland Forest, the Under the Sea: The Voyage of The Little Mermaid ride, and Be Our Guest restaurant opening by the end of 2012.

But even with all of those exciting upcoming events, we still don’t know what the “surprise announcement” will be. Rumor has it that the announcement will take place during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, airing on Dec. 31 on Disney’s ABC TV network. Stay tuned for more details on the announcement.

In the meantime, you can always enjoy all of the other rides, attractions and restaurants Disney® has to offer with discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Tickets start at just $231.00 for an Adult 3-Day magic Your Way Base ticket and only $213.00 for a 3-Day Child Magic Your Way Base Ticket. To experience all of Disney’s® magic check out the Disney’s Magic Your Way Park hopper tickets. And don’t forget to reserve your Disney® tickets for 2012! It sounds like it’s going to be one thrilling New Year at the Orlando theme park.

Disney Confirms Grand Floridian Addition

2011-12-09T17:56:53-05:00

After months of speculation, Walt Disney World ® today officially announced the expansion of Disney’s ® Grand Floridian Resort & Spa with new Disney Vacation Club villas.

The new buildings will be located near the spa and wedding pavilion at Disney’s ® Grand Floridian Resort and will also include a children’s water-play area and other amenities.

“We continually look for ways to expand Disney Vacation Club by creating resort experiences that our members will love,” Claire Bilby, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club, said in a press release. “With the continued popularity of Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, we are thrilled to offer our members and guests a new resort option along the monorail system with easy access to the Magic Kingdom Park, as well as a variety of shopping, dining and recreation experiences.”

The initial plans for the add-on called for demolishing the resort’s existing tennis court and adding a parking lot.

The shoreline of the Seven Sea Lagoon was also planned to change to accommodate the new building, according to filed plans from Walt Disney Imagineering. The shoreline change would allow for more property with a view of the water.

The Grand Floridian add-on will be Disney ® Vacation Club’s 12th property. The Disney ® resort opened in 1988, and is modeled after the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, Calif.

Guest scan expect to stay in the 147-villa add-on by late 2013.

In other Walt Disney World ® Resort news, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts kicked off construction of its luxury resort at the Orlando theme park yesterday.

“Travelers around the world know and trust Four Seasons, and Walt Disney World is the world’s premiere family vacation destination,” said Meg Crofton, president, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations U.S. and France. “Together, our two companies offer a brand-new reason to visit and experience Central Florida.”

The Four Seasons resort Orlando at Walt Disney World ® will feature several dining venues including a rooftop restaurant with views of Magic Kingdom™; a 14,--- square-foot spa; fitness center, three pools and a “lazy river”; sports and recreational facilities; and a business center.

Kathleen Taylor, President and CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, spoke of the relationship with Disney: “Each of us is dedicated to creating a product of the highest quality and standards, something that will become a landmark here in Orlando and a destination unto itself for travelers from all over the world. It is truly a one-of-a-kind project and Central Florida will be a valuable addition to our family of resorts, particularly since this is a destination our guests already enjoy.”

The resort is set to open in 2014.

SeaWorld Orlando to Host AllNew Festival Just For Kids

2011-12-12T11:12:31-05:00

SeaWorld Orlando has announced some exciting news for kids. The Orlando theme park is introducing an all-new kid-focused festival to hit the park this winter!

According to an official press release from SeaWorld, Just For Kids will feature amazing concerts by the most popular children’s musical acts out there including LazyTown, Max & Ruby, the Doodlebops and Choo-Choo Soul. In addition to the awesome concerts kids will also be able to enjoy kid-sized rides, adorable animals, music, treats and so much more! And here’s some exciting news for parents: the Just For Kids concerts are included in the price of admission!

Just For Kids runs Saturdays January 14 – February 4. OrlandoFunTickets.com will have more details about all of the activities, music, treats and more very soon so check back often.

In the meantime, here is the concert lineup:

• January 14 - LazyTown Live on Stage• January 21 - Max & Ruby's Musical Playdate• January 28 - Doodlebops' Musical Playdate• February 4 - Choo Choo Soul

To help plan your SeaWorld Just For Kids trip here’s a synopsis of each concert:

LazyTown – January 14Stephanie and Ziggy are trying to set a new energy record in the town they are visiting. They call Sportacus for help, but Robbie appears and the energy meter is going further and further down. Join Robbie, Ziggy, Stephanie and Sportacus as they set a new energy record.

Max & Ruby's Musical Playdate – January 21Celebrate the universal nature of sibling relationships in Max & Ruby’s Musical Playdate. Max & Ruby never quite want the same thing and their plans always collide – with hilarious results. Featuring upbeat and original songs, this Playdate is sure to have the whole audience singing and hopping along!

Doodlebops’ Musical Playdate – January 28Get movin’ and groovin’ with kids’ favorite band in the Doodlebops’ Musical Playdate. Join rock stars DeeDee, Rooney and Moe as they sing their favorite songs, tell their wackiest jokes and show off their funkiest dance moves. The Doodlebops can’t wait to "Get on the Bus" and come to your town!

Choo Choo Soul – February 4Conductor Genevieve Goings and her Beat Boxing / Break Dancing engineer DC bring Choo Choo Soul to town for a live visit! Winner of the PARENTS CHOICE AWARD for Children’s Television, Choo Choo Soul takes the whole family on an amazing learning and musical adventure, as they present fun and kid-friendly hip hop style songs all about those ABCs, 123s, vegetables and most importantly the power of doing YOUR OWN DANCE!!!

To experience Just For Kids for less you can find discounted SeaWorld tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Adult admission starts at just $67.00 with children admission only $59.00!

Celebrate The Holidays During Disneys 28th Annual Christmas Day Parade

2011-12-13T16:45:59-05:00

Hollywood’s biggest stars are bringing tidings of joy this Christmas to both Disney theme parks during the 28th annual “Disney ® Parks Christmas Day Parade” TV special that will air December 25 on ABC-TV. Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World ® Resort in Orlando will come together during one spectacular parade with plenty of Disney ® magic and tons of star power!

Hosts of the telecast are Nick Cannon and Mario Lopez, with co-host Maria Menounos. Along with Nick, Mario and Maria comes plenty of other stars including four-time Grammy award winning singer Christina Aguilera and headliner, teen sensation Justin Bieber. The star-studded spectacular spreads good tidings with bicoastal performances from Academy ® Award-winning actress and multi-platinum singer Jennifer Hudson, singer/songwriter and producer Cee Lo Green, platinum-record rockers OneRepublic, “American Idol” Season 10 winner and country singer Scotty McCreery, and the McClain Sisters, featuring “A.N.T. Farm” star China Ann McClain, among others.

Here’s who you can expect to see during the 28th annual “Disney ® Parks Christmas Day Parade” TV special:

“The Voice” judge and award-winning singer Christina Aguilera will perform“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” from Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland Resort. International singing sensation Justin Bieber sings a medley of performances from his new Christmas album including “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and the album’s title-track, “Mistletoe.” He’ll perform on the Cinderella Castle stage at Magic Kingdom ™. Soulful singer/songwriter Cee Lo Green takes the stage to perform a holiday favorite, “This Christmas.” Pop-rock hitmaking group OneRepublic performs on the Sleeping Beauty Castle stage at Disneyland Park, reminding guests to make the most of each memorable moment with the hit single “Good Life.” American Idol” Season 10 Winner Scotty McCreery brings some country flavor to the show with his rendition of the classic tune, “A Holly Jolly Christmas.”

In addition to the Hollywood celebrities the parade will also feature a few Disney celebs including:

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse; Disney Princesses Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, Sleeping Beauty and Jasmine accompanied by their handsome beaus. Buzz Lightyear will soar to infinity and beyond with his “Toy Story” cohorts Woody and Jessie while Disney-Pixar pals Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater from the blockbuster films “Cars” and “Cars 2” rev ups some fun. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs add a little sparkle to the celebration with a glimmering gemstone float topped with a diamond-encrusted Christmas tree and of course Santa Claus himself will glide down Main Street, U.S.A. with his trusted reindeer leading the way.

There are plenty more celebrities both from Hollywood and Disney featured in the parade so make sure you tune in on Christmas day!

Walt Disney World Adds Fun In LeapYear 2012

2011-12-14T16:14:02-05:00

Walt Disney World ® is adding some fun new rides and attractions that will have guests “leap”ing for joy in 2012. From sorcerers to the new Fantasyland to luxurious new guests Royal Rooms and so much more, Walt Disney World ® is really spreading the magic this leap year!

Here’s a “leap” into a few of 2012’s new attractions:

Sorcerers invade the Magic Kingdom (early 2012) – In an all-new interactive experience, “Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom™,” Merlin the magician will recruit guests as apprentice sorcerers to undertake missions to subdue villains and ne’er do wells. Armed with magic spells in the form of special cards, guests must search for the magic symbols that lead them to animated villains’ hiding places. By casting different magical spell cards, players can do battle with Yzma, Kronk and other “baddies” hiding throughout the land. From fireballs to frantic frogs and cyclones, there are spells to bring down each and every villain, with a simple flick of the wrist. This immersive role-playing adventure is included with park admission.

New Fantasyland (early 2012) – The largest expansion project in Magic Kingdom™ history will open in phases beginning February 2012 at Walt Disney World Resort ®, featuring attractions and experiences in an area that will nearly double the size of Fantasyland. Among the novelties, guests will be able to fly high with The Great Goofini or with Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “immerse” themselves in Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid and “be our guest” at the Beast’s Castle. Out of the gate in early 2012 will be The Barnstormer coaster, Fantasyland Station and – for the first time anywhere turning counter-clockwise – the first half of the Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction. Completion of The New Fantasyland is scheduled for 2014 with most new experiences open by 2013.

Royal Guest Rooms (mid-February 2012) – Imagine waking up in a place where Disney ® Princes and Princesses have stayed. Beginning mid-February 2012, Walt Disney World ® guests staying at Disney’s ® Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will discover special treasures left behind by the stars of favorite animated films such as “Aladdin,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Princess and the Frog.” In quarters befitting the young Princes and Princesses of the family (their parents, too!), guests can unwind amid remarkable décor. They’ll be able to watch “fireworks” swirl as they recline in ornate beds, curl up in custom linens and more. It is majesty and fun, rolled into one. Each of the 512 Royal Guest Rooms sleeps up to four guests in two queen beds.

There is tons more to see and do at Disney ® in the New Year so make sure you book your tickets now to experience all of the leap year magic!

Hollywood Studios Sounds Dangerous To Close in May 2012

2011-12-15T15:52:39-05:00

After months of rumors, the infamous “Sounds Dangerous - starring Drew Carrey” attraction at Walt Disney World’s® Hollywood Studios™ will finally close in early spring 2012. Disney® confirmed this week that the attraction will close and be completely removed from the park map by May of next year. The attraction is currently listed as seasonal opening, but has not operated regularly for years. Its recent openings have been during busy times in the park such as the opening of Star Tours last year.

The Sounds Dangerous Theater, otherwise known as “The ABC Sound Studio” will be used as a temporary home for a Comedy Warehouse limited engagement from Dec. 25 – 31, 2011. “The Comedy Warehouse Holiday Special,” which is being offered to boost entertainment offerings during the bust Christmas week, will present the best of improvisational comedy as performers – including alumni from the Comedy Warehouse on Pleasure Island – take suggestions from guests and add their own brand of humor.

The performers will reinvent holiday classics based on audience suggestions, including holiday songs, stories, poems and movie scenarios.

After that we’re not sure what will replace the “Sounds Dangerous” attraction, but some rumors point to a new Star Wars-themed show, while others believe that the American Idol Experience should be closing sooner than previously through, freeing more space for a major, new attraction.

We’ll just have to wait and see what Disney® has in store for the theater. In the meantime, you can still enjoy the 12-minute audio show until May 2012. “Sounds Dangerous” features Drew Carey as an actor who portrays a gumshoe detective who bungles his first-on camera case. When the hidden camera in his tie gets damaged, the video disappears and the theater is plunged into total darkness—leaving you to listen in as the hilarious mystery unfolds.

To catch “Sounds Dangerous”’s final show or for a little laugh at “The Comedy Warehouse Holiday Special” in between Christmas and New Year’s look for discounted Disney® tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Tickets start at just $231.00 for an adult 3-day base ticket and $213.00 for a child 3-day base ticket.

And don’t forget to check out all of Disney’s® special holiday events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom™, The Osbourne Lights at Hollywood Studios™, Holidays Around the World Candlelight Processional at Epcot™ and so much more! All of Walt Disney World’s® holiday events run through the New Year and all of them are included in park admission except for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

New Years Eve in Orlando Theme Parks

2011-12-19T09:29:37-05:00

Christmas is just 9 days away, which means New Year’s Eve is only 15 days away! We can’t discuss all of the Orlando theme park Christmas events without filling you in on what each park will be doing for New Year’s Eve! If you plan to spend New Year’s Eve in one of Orlando’s many theme parks here’s a quick guide as to where to go when:

Magic Kingdom™ at Walt Disney World ® will feature special presentations of the “SpectroMagic” parade and several nighttime fireworks displays. "Holiday Wishes" lights up the sky early in the evening and guests who make it to midnight can see “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks, which begin just before the New Year starts.

At Epcot™ celebrate the New Year with DJs and evening dance parties spread 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™ says farewell to 2011 with multiple presentations of “Fantasmic!” a spectacular of Disney ® movies and music. The park will also feature a special “Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks spectacular, as well as a DJ dance party around the Sorcerer Hat Stage.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on December 31. Guests can enjoy one of the final presentations of the romping character cavalcade “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade”.

Both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure will be open for extended hours on New Year’s Eve- from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. New Year's Eve festivities in both parks include party zones that will feature DJs, character appearances and a fireworks display at midnight. But best of all the New Year’s Eve fun is included with regular park admission.

Universal’s CityWalk will be counting down to the New Year with non-stop dancing and entertainment throughout the nightlife spot. Guests can enjoy live music on the main stage as well as inside participating venues including O'Brien's, the groove, Bob Marley's, Latin Quarter, CityJazz, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and the Red Coconut Club. There will even be an unlimited, gourmet buffet that includes filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, desserts and is included in the event admission price. At the stroke of midnight a champagne toast and confetti burst will bring in the New Year.

SeaWorld Orlando will be throwing their own New Year’s Eve party complete with live music, fireworks, dancing and so much more! Guests can listen to the beats of a live DJ as the countdown to 2012 begins at The Waterfront. At the stroke of midnight, a brilliant fireworks display will light up the Orlando sky for all to enjoy! SeaWorld’s New Year’s Eve festivities are included in daily theme park admission.

Busch Gardens InPark App Available for Android

2011-12-20T17:41:35-05:00

Over the summer, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay launched its first-ever interactive iPhone app, allowing for guests to get the most out of their Busch Gardens trip. In response to popular demand, the free app is now available in the Android market as well.

The Busch Gardens app utilizes GPS technology to guide guests through the park. Interactive maps show guests where they are locate din the park and allows them to highlight the quickest real-time route to their next destination by clicking the “Take Me There” button on any destination page. The app provides information on the restaurant, show, roller coaster or animal habitat’s location, menu, restrictions, wait times and more. Guests can also search for the nearest restrooms, lockers and ATMs.

Fun facts about Busch Gardens’ many animals are also a highlight of the app. Guests can also connect to social media sites to share photos with friends and keep up with the park’s Facebook and Twitter feeds.

Here are some of the Busch Gardens App features:

• Interactive real-time map• Updated ride wait times and height requirements• Detailed information pages for all major shows, rides, animal habitats and restaurants• Important contact information to make reservations or schedule tours• Ways for guests to connect to social media sites• General park information and operating hours• Live local weather and forecast updates

To download the free app, search the keyword “Busch Gardens” in the Android Market and iTunes App Store.

Make sure you use the app to look up some of Busch Gardens’ newest attractions like Cheetah Hunt and Cheetah Run. The ride and the animal exhibit opened this past summer at the Tampa Bay park and both boast incredible speeds and views of the Cheetah. Guests that ride Cheetah Hunt will experience a wild adventure through the eyes of the predator on the hunt for prey as the coaster flies you over towering rises with breathtaking plunges at speeds pushing 60 miles per hour. After feeling what it’s like to run like the ferocious animal, see one for yourself at the accompanying exhibit Cheetah Run.

There are plenty more thrilling roller coaster rides, animal exhibits and attractions to take in at Busch Gardens and the new app for iPhone and now Android will help you find everything without wasting a single second. After you download the app it is time to get your tickets to the park. OrlandoFunTickets.com is currently offering Busch Gardens tickets for adults for just $75.00 and Busch Gardens’ children tickets are only $68.00.

Walt Disney World Brings Back Tower of Terror Race

2011-12-21T17:28:02-05:00

It’s baaaack! Walt Disney World® is bringing back a popular running event themed around The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

On Wednesday morning Disney® announced a new nighttime 10-mile race, scheduled for Sept. 29, 2012, that will take runners through Disney’s® Hollywood Studios™.

The course, Disney’s® first of that mileage, will take runners through the set of the “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show,” past Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat and finish near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Finishers will receive a medal inspired by the Tower of Terror.

After the race, Disney® will welcome runners for a post-race party in the park featuring music, Disney characters and access to rides like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, Star Tours, Toy Story Mania! And of course the ride that’s central to the race’s theme – The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

This is the second The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror race Disney has hosted. The first was a 13k in 2009. The new event will be dubbed The Twilight Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend.

The new Twilight Zone race will be held on the first weekend of the Epcot™ International Food and Wine Festival, which is normally when Disney® hosts one of its other races, the Wine & Dine Half Marathon.

To make room for the new running event, Wine & Dine is being pushed back to Nov. 9-10, the final weekend of the Food & Wine Festival.

In addition to the 10-mile race, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Weekend will also include a 5k, kid’s races and a Health & Fitness Expo at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

If you’re interested in running the 10-miler, registration opens on Feb. 14.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Weekend is just one of many future running events Disney® plans to incorporate in 2012. Faron Kelley, director of marketing for Disney Sports, hinted in an interview of a runDisney expansion in September.

"We're going to keep growing. I can't give you a lot of detail, but we are definitely looking at a fourth race at Walt Disney World®. If everything goes well out in California with (the Tinker Bell Half Marathon), I don't see why we wouldn't do another race out there. We want to grow internationally. We've got parks around the world and we are in discussions with all of them," he said at the time.

Walt Disney World® hosts several other running events throughout the year including half marathons, 5ks and even a marathon, which will be held on January 8th of this year.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror race is the sixth runDisney event at Walt Disney World®. Disney® says more than 100,000 people participate in runDisney’s events on both coasts each year.

Aggro Circus to Return to Islands of Adventure

2011-12-22T16:18:14-05:00

It looks like Islands of Adventure will be welcoming back one of its seasonal shows before the end of the year.

Despite Universal Orlando removing all of the props of Agrro Circus from the Toon Lagoon in September of this year, the Orlando theme park may not be completely done with the attraction. All props used in the show, including the circular cage for the motorcycles’ act have returned, meaning guests may soon be able to experience the attraction back at the park.

If Aggro Circus does not return this year, there should be daily shows between December 25 and January 1. If not, you can expect the show to return in March/April 2012, Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure’s next peak season.

For those of you who have never been to Toon Lagoon in Islands of Adventure and have no idea what Aggro Circus is let us fill you in. The production’s official name is Mat Hoffman’s Aggro Circus and it is a live seasonal BMX stunt show that generally operates during peak seasons in Islands of Adventure. Hosted by Matt Hoffman, the show features numerous BMX bike and skateboarding stunt tricks under a circus theme. The show replaced a similar production known as Matt Hoffman’s Freakin Crazy Stunt Show.

Nestled between Marvel Super Hero Island and Jurrasic Park in Islands of Adventure, Toon Lagoon, where Aggro Circus is housed, is where everyone’s favorite cartoon characters live when they are not in the pages of the Sunday comics. The area is filled with cartoon images scattered across buildings, playing in the fountains, and enjoying all of the live water rides Toon Lagoon is known for.

A few of Toon Lagoon’s other attractions include Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, an incredible water flume ride that features a 75-foot drop; Me Ship, the Olive, a three-story interactive play area; and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure.

To experience Mat Hoffman’s Aggro Circus as well as all of the holiday fun Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure has to offer look for discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. Adult 1-Day Base Tickets to both parks start at $84.00 and children 1-Day Base Tickets are only $78.00. For the complete Universal experience including Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal and Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure check out our Park-to-Park tickets. Spend two days exploring both Orlando parks and pay just $139.99 for adults and $129.99 for children!

And don’t forget to “Rock in the New Year” at Universal’s CityWalk from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Dec. 31. Live entertainment and gourmet cuisine will kick off one of the biggest New Year’s celebrations in Orlando!

A Guide to Holidays in Orlando

2011-12-23T13:34:03-05:00

Many of you may be planning a last minute trip to one of Orlando’s many theme parks this Christmas Eve and the week after Christmas. And if you are, you’re not alone. The week leading up to Christmas until Jan. 1 is generally one of the busiest times of the year, with the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve being especially hectic. In fact, many Disney-centric websites and resources indicate that this is the busiest time of the year. Fred Hazelton, statistician for TouringPlans.com and The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, reports that while average peak wait times across Walt Disney World® are 23 minutes on the slowest days of the year, those same average peak wait times are 46 minutes during Christmas break.

But don’t let those numbers deter you from visiting Walt Disney World® or any other Orlando theme park this holiday season. If you are planning a trip to any of Orlando’s many theme parks here are a few quick tips to help you navigate the crowds and get the most out of your experience:

Arrive at the Parks When They Open. It’s a no-brainer but if you want to enjoy everything these parks have to offer for the season, you have to beat the masses. Disney® theme parks are least busy during the first couple of hours they’re open, and if you devise a plan of attack you can experience a lot during these first few hours.

Utilize Disney’s® FASTPASS. Disney’s® complimentary FASTPASS allows guests to obtain a paper pass for select attractions that saves their place in line for an attraction while they enjoy other attractions throughout the park. This can mean the difference between a 10-minute wait in line and a 180-minute wait during the Christmas season. That’s a significant difference so make sure you take advantage!

Don’t Forget To Check Out the Christmas Entertainment. The good news: You don’t have to pay extra for most of Orlando theme park’s holiday events. The bad news: Intense crowds! To ensure a good viewing location in Christmas parade spots like Magic Kingdom™ and Animal Kingdom™ as well as holiday fireworks at Epcot™ and Magic Kingdom™ you may have to stake out a spot well in advance. The parades, fireworks and festive lights are all worth the extra planning and crowds so make sure you stick around to experience all of them.

If you still need Walt Disney World®, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando or Busch Gardens’ tickets you can find theme right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com.

From everybody at OrlandoFunTickets.com have a Merry Christmas and we’ll be back here on Tuesday with plenty of Orlando theme park New Year’s Eve events to help you ring in the New Year.

SeaWorlds Penguin Encounter To Close in January

2011-12-27T10:42:59-05:00

SeaWorld Orlando announced today that its Penguin Encounter, Friends of the Wild gift shop and Antarctic Market Restaurant will all close beginning January 3 to make way for some new adventures to open spring, 2013.

But just because the Penguin Encounter will be closing doesn’t mean there won’t be other penguin attractions to enjoy. A new indoor area, Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin will replace the Penguin Encounter in 2013.

Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin will be SeaWorld’s biggest-ever attraction expansion and no journey SeaWorld has ever brought you will be as incredible as Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin will be. SeaWorld Orlando describes it as “a voyage to the bottom-of-the-world, to the coldest and windiest continent, to a place of ice more than 9,00 feet thick. It’s a journey to Antarctica and the empire of the penguin.”

The one-of-a-kind ride is an incredible family adventure where the sights, sounds and amazing encounters found will surround guests in the frozen place. You’ll experience the mystical life on the ice through the eyes of a penguin, sensing the beauty and sometimes drama of their life in the wild. And the best part is you’ll encounter a different adventure each time. Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin combines closer-than-ever animal connections with state-of-the-art interactive ride technologies for adventures that are different on every ride.

With a year-and-a-half before its opening, details about SeaWorld Orlando’s Antarctica attraction are few. But the Orlando theme park did have this to say about the newest attraction to hit the park in 2013:

“Only SeaWorld and its parks can take you on these journeys or bring these experiences to life,” said Orlando Parks President, Terry Prather. “We’re excited about what the future holds for our parks and for our fans.”

In addition to the Penguin Encounter closing a few other rides and attractions at SeaWorld will shut down temporarily in the New Year. Journey to Atlantis will also be closed for refurbishment from January 2 to January 24, 2012 for annual maintenance, while Wild Arctic will be briefly closed “for conversion from The Polar Express Experience” from January 2 to January 6, 2012.

To experience Penguin Encounter one last time before its closing in January, as well as all of the other aquatic fun SeaWorld Orlando has to offer, you can find discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com. SeaWorld Orlando tickets start at just $67.00 for adults and $59.00 for children. Stay tuned for more details on Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin as well as other new rides and attractions coming to the park in 2012.

Orlando Theme Parks Say Goodbye to Christmas Attractions

2011-12-28T16:15:56-05:00

If you didn’t get the chance to see all of the special holiday attractions at Orlando’s many theme parks this season don’t worry, you still have through the weekend to take part in the festive events.

Holiday events continue at SeaWorld this week with its Christmas Celebration wrapping up Saturday. Sunday is the last day for the Macy’s holiday Parade at Universal Orlando and for “Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular” at Islands of Adventure. The “Holidays in Space” programming continues at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex through Jan. 1.

At Walt Disney World®, Epcot’s ™ Candlelight Processional concludes with narrator Marlee Matlin Dec. 28-30. Guests can still enjoy the incredible Christmas lights display during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s ® Hollywood Studios™. And Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade at Disney’s ® Animal Kingdom ™, the Castle of Dream Lights and other Christmas programming at Magic Kingdom ™ continues throughout the week.

Holiday events aren’t the only things Orlando theme parks are saying goodbye to this week. Universal Orlando will say a sad farewell to the iconic Jaws ride on Jan. 1 “to make room for an exciting, NEW, experience.”

Universal also notes that, since Jaws is an important part of the park's history, "we’ve got a couple things planned to ensure we always remember and honor it."

The surrounding Amity-themed area around the attraction will also be closed “to make room for what will be an exciting new attraction experience,” Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said.

"Jaws has been an amazing attraction and an important part of our history. We know that Jaws holds a special place in the hearts of our guests," Schroder said. "But we always have to look to the future and dedicate ourselves to providing new, innovative entertainment experiences for our guests.”Park officials said they're anxious to share details of their plans for the area, and will make an announcement in "due time."

To experience one last holiday soirée at any of the Orlando theme parks or to get your final thrill ride on “Jaws” make sure you look for discounted tickets right here on OrlandoFunTickets.com! Universal Orlando 1-Day Base Tickets start at just $84.00, 3-Day Magic Your Way Base Tickets are just $231.00 and SeaWorld tickets are only $67.00.

Walt Disney Worlds Flower Garden Festival Coming Soon

2011-12-29T13:10:51-05:00

Nothing can stop Walt Disney World ®, not even the temporary closing of their parks on Wednesday as they hit capacity for the holiday rush. And with just a few days left until the Orlando theme park rings in 2012 it’s time to start thinking beyond the holiday season and into the New Year.

As always, Disney ® has already planned out their 2012 well into the holidays next year but it’s an annual event in March that is capturing all the buzz at OrlandoFunTickets.com today.

Guests can expect a little floral magic at this year’s 19th Epcot™ International Flower & Garden Festival as an 8-foot-tall Sorcerer Mickey Mouse topiary sits at the entrance, luring guests in beginning March 7 – May 20. The giant Mickey will stand atop a 12-foot-tall floral mountain cliff, towering over the park’s front-entrance topiary bed, directing the manicured shapes of dancing broomsticks, buckets, mushrooms, hippos, alligators and elephants from the classic Disney film, “Fantasia.”

Disney topiary specialists worked to create the massive new design with innovative materials and recycled elements from years past, says festival horticulture manager Eric Darden. An earlier version of Sorcerer Mickey stood less than five feet tall; a larger frame was built, Darden says, to more accurately reflect the character in the front-entrance Fantasia scene. The new Fantasia “mountain” grew from a 2003 topiary piece that once held a “Steamboat Willie” Mickey Mouse display.

“The challenge is to use our resources, repurpose them, and keep them fresh every year,” Darden says. “These are some of our most popular characters from a topiary standpoint, and ‘Fantasia’ was a groundbreaking film for its music and animation techniques.”

Sorcerer Mickey is just one of the new displays featured in this year’s festival. For 75 days Epcot ™ guests can also expect new speakers and hands-on fun the whole family will enjoy. Here are just a few of the festival’s highlights this year:

• Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden - Fabulous Disney fairy topiaries alight to greet young fans who enter this whimsical garden designed with play structures for children ages 2-5. At the Test Track Walkway.• The HGTV Designers Stage will present HGTV celebrities each Friday through Sunday and nationally recognized garden personalities Monday through Thursday. At the Festival Center.• The Flower Power concert series will welcome back 20th century pop favorites this year when Jose Feliciano, Chubby Checker and The Wildcats, Paul Revere & The Raiders, Davy Jones and seven other bands rock the America Gardens Theatre on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

There are lots more floral fun happening at the 19th Epcot ™ International Flower & Garden Festival so stay tuned for more details.

Busch Gardens Welcomes Baby Giraffe

2011-12-30T17:51:12-05:00

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay welcomed a new baby female reticulated giraffe on Tuesday, just in time for the New Year. At 5 foot, 7 inches tall and weighing approximately 127 pounds, the newborn calf was born to father, Jafari and mother, Tesa. The newest addition brings the park’s reticulated giraffe population to 18.

Guests will have to wait to see the calf until it’s a little older. Mamma and baby are currently in an area out of guest view so they can closely be monitored by zoo staff to ensure the baby is nursing and growing properly. When they’re ready the pair will join the other animals on the Serengeti Plain. The birth is a part of a successful long-term breeding program at the park.

In other Orlando theme park news, Universal Orlando is saying goodbye to its iconic attraction Jaws on Monday, Jan. 2. Universal announced last month that it was replacing the shark fest and its accompanying Amity area with a new attraction. No word yet on what will replace the popular ride but we imagine it’ll be something spectacular! You can experience one last Jaws ride this weekend during Universal Orlando’s many New Year’s Eve events.

Both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure will be open for extended hours on New Year’s Eve- from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. New Year's Eve festivities in both parks include party zones that will feature DJs, character appearances and a fireworks display at midnight. But best of all, the New Year’s Eve fun is included with regular park admission.

Walt Disney World ® will have its own New Year’s Eve fun including a special presentations of the “SpectroMagic” parade and several nighttime fireworks displays at Magic Kingdom ™. "Holiday Wishes" lights up the sky early in the evening and guests who make it to midnight can see “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks, which begin just before the New Year starts.

At Epcot ™ celebrate the New Year with DJs and evening dance parties spread 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 ™ says farewell to 2011 with multiple presentations of “Fantasmic!” a spectacular of Disney ® movies and music. The park will also feature a special “Lights! Camera! Happy New Year!” fireworks spectacular, as well as a DJ dance party around the Sorcerer Hat Stage.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom ® will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on December 31. Guests can enjoy one of the final presentations of the romping character cavalcade “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade”.

Have a Happy New Year. OrlandoFunTickets.com will be right back here Tuesday for more Orlando theme park news.

Universal Studios Introduces New Despicable Me Ride

2012-01-03T16:18:06-05:00

Tuesday, January 3, 2012- Orlando, FL Universal Orlando is very excited to introduce its newest attraction into the park this year. The Orlando theme park announced last spring that it will open a ‘3-D-CGI attraction’ based on the character of Gru, the animated super villain star of the Hollywood film Despicable Me.

Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative said: “ The ‘Despicable Me’ attraction is the latest example of how we tap into pop culture’s most compelling stories and turn them into extraordinary theme park entertainment.”

The new Despicable Me ride, which will replace the Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast park, will turn park guests into the less than sharp one-eyed yellow minions that trail their evil master Universal officials said. Gru’s three adopted daughters, Margo, Edith and Agnes will also be featured in the new attraction. Like the film, it will be a 3-D experience and will combine visceral and virtual motion with animation and real-life elements."When we got our hands on ['Despicable Me'], we knew instantly it was a perfect fit for Universal Orlando," said Woodbury. "It's wonderful for us to bring to life the first Universal animated picture."

Universal said its creative team is working with the film’s original producer, Chris Meledandri, to ensure the attraction stays true to the original movie.

The ride will feature a new story that follows friendly mad scientist Gru and his daughters during a trip to Universal Orlando. Gru says he has a new experiment he wants to try out and ends up transforming the entire audience into minions. Ride guests will be given 3-D glasses that look like the minions' goggles to complete the transformation, and will enter the eight-person vehicles to start the ride. The experience will end with a post-show dance party.The "Despicable Me" ride will be opened in 2012, and with a "Despicable Me" sequel hitting theaters in 2013, Meledandri said there's a chance for some crossover between the ride and the new film."I personally love little discoveries inside movies meant for people who are being particularly astute," he said, referencing the "Lorax" shirt Margo wears in the first film, which is a shout-out to Illumination Entertainment's next feature.There’s no word yet on whether the actors from the original film — including Steve Carell, Jason Segel and Miranda Cosgrove — would participate in the voice acting for the ride. We can only hope.

Stay tuned for more details on the new Despicable Me Ride as well as other new Universal Orlando attractions including Spider Man. Tickets to Universal Orlando start at just $84.00 for adults and $78.00 for children right her eon OrlandoFunTickets.com.

TurtleTrek Coming to SeaWorld

2012-01-04T17:47:32-05:00

For nearly 50 years, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has focused its efforts on the rescue and care of sea animals, particularly manatees and sea turtles. In that time more than 20,000 injured, orphaned or ill animals have been rescued, cared for and in most cases, returned to their natural habitat. And this spring, SeaWorld Orlando is taking its rescue mission one step further with the opening of its newest attraction, TurtleTrek.

In the same way SeaWorld’s attraction “Manatee Rescue” sparked interest that helped save the species, the park believes the new attraction TurtleTrek will help showcase the vulnerable sea turtle in hopes that everyday heroes across the globe will help make a difference in savings the animals in the wild.

TurtleTrek features a 3D/360-degree dome that SeaWorld claims is the first at any theme park in the world. Designers have combined a state-of-the-art animated film and projection system with a fully domed theater, creating a unique theatrical experience. Guests are promised a seamless, 3D virtual environment all around them, even over their heads.

The 3D/360-degree movie is just one part of what TurtleTrek will offer park guests. Two massive, naturalistic saltwater and freshwater habitats will house sea turtles and manatees, some of them rescued and cared for by SeaWorld’s animal team.

The attraction’s sea turtle residents cannot be returned to the wild due to genetics, illness or being orphaned and have found a permanent home at TurtleTrek. The varieties of sea turtles found in the attraction include adult and juvenile hawksbill, Kemp’s, loggerhead and green sea turtles. Guests will be able to view these incredible sea creatures gliding past them from above or through a below-water window.

Four West Indian manatees can also be seen from above, or below water in TurtleTrek. Approximately 200 freshwater fish will accompany the manatees in their habitat. Guests will even be able to view fish native to Florida including large-mouth bass and bluegills; and exotic fish that can be found in Florida waters such as pacu and red-tail catfish.

The saltwater habitat will include more than 1,500 Caribbean-native fish with tropical varieties including angelfish, surgeonfish, filefish, butterfly fish and many more.

SeaWorld’s TurtleTrek is just one of three new attractions coming to the park and its sister park Discovery Cove over the next two years. Discovery Cove will welcome a new Freshwater Oasis that will feature an environment themed to a rainforest. The Freshwater Oasis will also open this spring, while Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin will replace the existing penguin encounter at SeaWorld in 2013. Stay tuned for opening dates for TurtleTrek and other SeaWorld Orlando expansion news.