Posted on Sun, Jun 20, 2010 @ 09:46 AM
4th of July Fireworks Shows at All The Orlando Theme Parks!
The following article courtesy of Orlando Attractions Magazine!
Many of Orlando's Theme Parks have announced their fireworks shows for July 4, 2010. It's one of the busiest days of the year for the theme parks so be prepared to join a crowd.
Magic Kingdom
"Celebrate America Fireworks" will fill the sky at 9 p.m. July 4. (Guests who'd like to begin the celebratory weekend a day early can enjoy the special fireworks on July 3 at 9 p.m.) After the fireworks, guests can enjoy Disney's "Main Street Electrical Parade" of lights, music and magic at 10 p.m. and midnight on July 4 (on July 3, the parade will be at 10:30 p.m.). Park hours on July 4 are 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Special fireworks set to a rock ‘n' roll soundtrack will be presented at 9:50 p.m. on July 4, providing guests with a bonus nighttime entertainment extravaganza to complement "Fantasmic!" (which will be at 9 and 10:30 p.m.). Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Epcot
"IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," which features special effects, colorful lasers, fireworks, and fiery torches all choreographed to a musical score, becomes even more dynamic on July 4 as the normal show is supplemented with a patriotic finale. The performance begins at 10 p.m. Earlier in the day, guests will be treated to the Voices of Liberty 4th of July Concert - featuring an expanded cast of singers plus the Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps and Disney characters - at 12:30, 1:45 and 3 p.m. on the America Gardens Theatre stage. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
SeaWorld
In addition to the SeaWorld After Dark events going on all summer, the 13th Army Band, Florida National Guard will perform at Bayside Stadium prior to the fireworks finale. This 40-piece band, known as the Governor's Own Band, will entertain the audience with classic and current tunes, gearing them up for the special Fourth of July Reflections show featuring additional fireworks timed to patriotic music. Performance begins at 9:45 p.m. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Universal Studios
Starting on July 4 and running most nights through Aug. 8, Universal will present their Universal 360 - A Cinesphere Spectacular. This cinematic show combines projection technology with lasers and pyrotechnics to bring the movies to life. Park hours on July 4 are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Orlando Vacation Package yet to your favorite theme park? Then check out our website at
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Posted on Wed, May 05, 2010 @ 08:11 AM
Universal Studios Orlando Gives us a Clue as to Theme of Halloween Horror Nights 2010
Via: Behind the Thrills, in reference to Haunt Con
"A tree. That was the only clue to HHN 20 given. And it's a pretty big clue if we piece together what we already know for fact (not the stupid 10 house, T2 Bill and Ted, and wedding rumors). What we know is that we will be seeing almost every major icon, and several huge characters come back. What we know is that TJ Mannarino has said this will be a "scrapbook of years past". Though everyone is thinking of a wedding, I see more of a "family reunion". Yes, a family tree. And all of our favorite icons are related. It's one sick and twisted family, and perhaps we'll meet daddy...or mama. Maybe Jack is the proud papa? Doubtful, since Eddie is his brother."
Still haven't got tickets yet to visit Universal Studios Orlando for Halloween Horror Nights or how about the Grand Opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter on June 18th?...
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Posted on Mon, Apr 26, 2010 @ 07:10 AM
Harry Potter New Website of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter from Universal Orlando
The following article & photos courtesy of Orlando Attractions Magazine...
Universal’s official Wizarding World of Harry Potter website has a new feature. From the main page, if you click on Hogsmeade, you’ll be taken to an eye-level view just inside the entrance. From here when you move the mouse pointer left, right, up or down, your view will change, letting you virtually look around.
You can click to move to one of three spots in Hogsmeade. While it won’t let you enter any buildings, you can click to read more information about the surrounding shops, restaurants and rides.
This isn’t like a typical virtual tour, in that it wasn’t created with actual pictures. It’s a walk-through of the computer rendering. But it allows you to see some views we haven’t seen before, such as the snowman in the screen-shot above and the view looking back at the entrance from inside and the entrance to Dragon Challenge.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure is set for a grand opening on June 18, but it’s expected to have soft openings before that date. For more new details on the Wizarding World, be sure to watch our exclusive interview with Art Director Alan Gilmore.
Still haven't got Tickets or a Vacation Package to Universal Orlando yet? Then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all the best Universal Studios Orlando vacation Packages & don't miss your chance to be part of the action when The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens on June 18th...
Posted on Sun, Apr 18, 2010 @ 01:20 PM
Caladesi Island Clearwater, Florida.
When you think about Orlando Florida the first image come to your mind is Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld Parks , but definitely we have more than that, Natural Parks just minutes from the city, ecological reserves, natural springs and of course the best beaches in the country a few miles from Orlando. To name a few examples Caladesi Island located in the west coast just 1 hour and 45 minutes (91 miles) from Disney World Area were rated America's Best Beach in 2008. Besides this we have one of the most famous beach in the world Daytona Beach just one hour from Orlando theme parks.
Here is the list of the different beaches you can be found in the area:
1. Cocoa Beach: this five-acre beach has long been a favorite site to view space shuttle launches from nearby Cape Caneveral, most people care about when they go there is to have a great beach day, is a clean, safe environment and close to all kinds of stores,Restaurants and beach bums-related retail shops. Driving time: 1 hour (59 Miles)
2 Daytona Beach: remains one of the few Florida destinations where you can drive the minivan onto the sand, park it and unload for an easy family day in the sun and surf on lifeguard-patrolled beaches. Daytona Beach offer breathtaking beauty and water related fun! At low tide, the beach is up to 500 feet wide. It's easy to see why our beaches are considered among the best in the world. Driving time: 1 hour (57 miles )
3. New Smyrna Beach: Quiet New Smyrna Beach has 13 miles of white-sand beach. Its offshore rock ledges create excellent wave breaks -- which surfers love -- and lessen dangerous undertows. National surfing championships are held several times a year at Ponce Inlet, north of New Smyrna. Driving time: 1 hour, 8 minutes. (58 Miles)
4. Canaveral National Seashore: Pure Florida beach so unique, No cars on the beach, no places from which to rent rafts or buy sodas, no pier parties, no looming condos, no surf shops, no motels or lights. Driving time: 1 hour, 15 minutes. ( 74 Miles )
5. Melbourne Beach: This is a family beach, Melbourne, Florida is located on the beautiful beaches of Florida's Space Coast. the beach is clean and calm with stunning views of the Atlantic coastline.Driving time: 1 hour, 24 minutes. (78 Miles)
6. Clearwater Beach: is a barrier island off a peninsula, three miles of powdery white beach and abundant family attractions await in this reawakening old shore town. hotels, shops, restaurants and attractions, In Clearwater you can Ride on the largest speedboat on the East Coast of the USA, take a dolphin tour with a fantastic dolphin encounter or simply enjoy the white sand beach on the Gulf of Mexico.(Near Tampa ) driving : 1 hour, 40 minutes (89 miles)
7. Caladesi Island State Park: America's Best Beach in 2008, Caladesi Island Beach, Florida, is located on Caladesi Island, off the West Coast of Florida. Caladesi State Park is one of the only places where you can still experience Florida’s pristine, untouched wildlife. Caladesi Beach’s unadulterated state is due to strict regulations that make Caladesi State Park accessible only by boat or ferry. (Near Tampa ) driving time: 1 hours, 45 minutes. (91 Miles)
8. Treause Island: Treasure Island, Florida is located on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast and is blessed with miles of gorgeous white sand beaches that boast that "Old Florida" feel yet Treasure Island is part of the Tampa Bay region, one of the nation's fastest growing metro areas. Treasure Island offers you and your family a quiet "laid back" atmosphere while being just a short drive from Orlando theme parks. (Near St. Petersburg) Driving : 1 hour 38 minutes. (93 Miles)
9. Fort de Soto Park: Fort De Soto Park was named America’s Top Beach for the second consecutive year by TripAdvisor. Citing a “spectacular combination of soft white sand, calm, clear water and a laid-back atmosphere. (Near St. Petersburg) driving: 1 hour, 49 minutes. (96 Miles)
10. Anna Maria Island: Anna Maria Island, has always been known for its sugar-white coastline, emerald Gulf waters and quaint business districts, Today, it is now known as a vacation favorite among local, national and international travelers. From honeymooners to Hollywood film crews, youngsters to the young-at-heart, people from around the world have discovered what’s awaiting you – Your Piece of Paradise, An Island In The Sun. (Near Bradenton) driving time: 2 hours, 9 minutes. (113 Miles )
Still haven't got tickets or a Vacation package to Disney World , Come and have the best vacations ever in The Happiest Place on Earth, Call Toll free 1-877 275 1278 and ask for Orlando vacations Packages with Florida Beach gateways, "The Perfect Vacations"
Orlando is always the best destination to celebrate with the family.
Posted on Sat, Apr 10, 2010 @ 06:41 AM
The Forbidden Journey at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios Orlando
Mark Woodbury, the president of Universal creative give you a tour of the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal's Islands of Adventure.
You'll see the Portrait Gallery with the first ever look at Hogwart's four founders - Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Helga Hufflepuff and Rowena Ravenclaw. Then you'll see Dumbledore's office, then head into the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom.
Still haven't got tickets or a Vacation Package to Universal Studios in Orlando for the Grand Opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter on June 18th?
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Posted on Wed, Apr 07, 2010 @ 06:35 AM
Take a Look at a couple of stuff at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Following courtesy of Orlando Attractions Magazine
An authentic replica from the Harry Potter films, guests will pass by Hagrid's Hut on their way to the Flight of the Hippogriff family-friendly roller coaster. Just before they board, Hagrid instructs guests on how to properly approach and fly on a Hippogriff. Hagrid's Hut will be seen as part of a feature about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter on NBC's The Celebrity Apprentice this Sunday, April 4.
The Ellen DeGeneres Show aired a video today from within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal's Islands of Adventure. It offers the best look yet into the new land. You'll see inside many of the stores, inside Hogwarts and a bit of the Flight of the Hippogriff ride.
Still haven't got your Universal Studios Orlando Tickets or a Vacation Package to visit Harry Potter and The Wizarding World opening June 18th?
Thene Check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Universal Orlando needs!!!!
Posted on Thu, Apr 01, 2010 @ 06:57 AM
What to expect in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando
One of the most widely anticipated theme park entertainment experiences ever created - The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort - is set for a public grand opening on June 18.
Universal Orlando Resort also revealed details about what is expected to be one the most exciting theme park experiences ever created: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. It will be one of three themed attractions within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is the heart of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This all new adventure combines a powerful storyline with spectacular new technology so effectively that guests will be completely immersed in the experience.
And as they live their adventure, guests will feel things no one has ever felt inside a theme park attraction, move in ways no one has ever moved, experience film like no one else ever has, explore vast sets punctuated by amazing special effects - and have an adventure only possible in Harry Potter's world.
The new attraction lies deep within Hogwarts Castle, a majestic structure that towers over The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - the only place in the world where the wonder, excitement and adventure of the Harry Potter books and films comes to life.
The Adventure
Imagine...
- Meeting Harry, Ron and Hermione as if they were in person
- Soaring over Hogwarts castle with Harry
- Being swept into a Quidditch match
- Feeling the chilling effect of a Dementor
- Exploring your favorite places inside Hogwarts castle
- Living adventures you've only been able to imagine - until now.
The Story
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey draws you into the excitement and chaos of Harry's life. As you venture through Hogwarts Castle, you meet Harry, Ron and Hermione who convince you to skip a planned lecture and follow them. Upon taking their advice, you travel by Floo powder, and begin the adventure as you soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.
"Guests will experience firsthand a completely new adventure featuring the iconic characters, amazing creatures and recognizable locations they've only read in the books or seen in the films," said Thierry Coup, creative director for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The Location
The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey experience starts as soon as you walk through the gates of Hogwarts. Within the towering Hogwarts Castle, you explore a truly magical place. You journey through iconic locations taken from the films and take in the extraordinary detail of each scene. They include:
- Dumbledore's office: Here, you meet the Headmaster as he welcomes you to Hogwarts
- Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom: Where you first meet Harry, Ron and Hermione
- Gryffindor common room: You meet three additional characters who prepare you for your journey
- Room of Requirement: Here, with hundreds of floating candles above, you take your seat on an enchanted bench and begin the Forbidden Journey
- Other locations: In addition, guests will pass through the Dungeon passageway and hallways of Hogwarts where they will have the chance to see hundreds of wizard portraits from the films, including several magical talking portraits created exclusively for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including the four founders of Hogwarts. Guests will even get a glimpse of the Sorting Hat.
The Innovation
This is more than just an attraction and it is unlike any theme park experience ever created. It's a revolutionary, 360-degree theme park experience and first-ever combination of live-action, advanced robotic technology and innovative filmmaking - specially designed and developed for this brand-new adventure.
"We have created an entirely new way to place our guests into the heart of one of the most compelling stories of our time," said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. "What we have done will forever change the theme park attraction experience."
The attraction's newly created ride system envelops guests in filmed action scenes and moves those scenes with them as they travel through the ride, allowing more time in the center of the adventure and with their favorite characters. This fusion of robotic technology and filmed scenes has never been achieved until now. In some cases, technology had to be invented to achieve the highest level of guest experience. The combination of pioneering, state-of-the-art technology, innovative filmmaking and surprises around every corner make this attraction the embodiment of the Harry Potter book and film series-and the future of theme park entertainment.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Quick Facts
- Storyline: As you venture through Hogwarts, you meet Harry, Ron and Hermione, who convince you to skip a planned lecture and follow them. Upon taking their advice you travel by Floo powder, and begin your adventure as you soar over Hogwarts, narrowly escape a dragon attack, have a close encounter with the Whomping Willow, get pulled into a Quidditch match and more.
- First-ever combination of advanced robotic ride system technology with innovative, immersive filmmaking
- Award-winning composer John Williams oversaw the creation of the attraction's score
- The queue includes the following Harry Potter book and film elements: Headmaster Dumbledore's office, Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Gryffindor common room, Room of Requirement, and the greenhouse; talking portraits including the Fat Lady and the never-before-seen four founders: Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Helga Hufflepuff and Rowena Ravenclaw; the Sorting Hat, the One-Eyed Witch statue and the Mirror of Erised
- Duration of ride: The full attraction experience, including the queue, takes about an hour
- Number of scenes in the attraction: 12
- Characters (featuring Harry Potter film talent): Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Albus Dumbledore, Rubeus Hagrid and Draco Malfoy
- You may also catch a glimpse of Fred and George Weasley, Ginny Weasley and Neville Longbottom
So, as you can see there is going to be alot to do and see when The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens on June 18th....
If you haven't yet purchased your Universal Studios Tickets or your Universal Vacation Package yet, then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Universal Orlando needs!
Posted on Thu, Mar 25, 2010 @ 03:49 PM
After an anxious wait
Universal Studios finally announced today that the grand opening date of
Wizarding World of Harry Potter, will be June 18th, 2010.
It's been a long journey to create one of the most anticipated attractions of a theme park in decades, the mega-project with a cost of approximately $ 200 million will be ready to welcome thousands of Harry Potter fans this summer, for now on the construction is in full swing, everything must be ready for the soft opening scheduled for May 28
According to the press release
Universal's Islands of Adventure created some new technology for
The Forbidden Journey Ride. The ride itself will consist of “live-action, advanced robotic technology and innovative filmmaking,
Universal Orlando officials would not be more specific about that effect, the new filming process or the robotic ride technology, They refer to the seats as an "enchanted bench," although two test seats with over-shoulder harnesses are in position outside the castle.the attraction will start with meeting
Harry, Ron, and Hermione who convince riders to skip class and go on an adventure with them involving Floo powder travels,
dragon attacks,
Quidditch matches, and the
Whomping Willow.
The details of the ride remains secretive, even its duration, although Mark Woodbury President of Universal Creative expects the entire experience to take about an hour, from entering the winged-boar gates outside to exiting through the gift shop.
Everything seems it will be an unforgettable experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Posted on Fri, Mar 19, 2010 @ 07:16 AM
Your Class Could Win a Trip to Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando
Teachers: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will soon open at Universal Studios Orlando Resort, and if you meet the qualifications, you and your students could be there for the grand opening!
By answering the question "Why is my class extraordinary?" in a short video, you and your class could be part of a group on a three-day, two-night trip to the opening celebration festivities of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida. To enter, print and fill out the application form, as well as the minor release form on the next page, read the Official Rules and application guidelines, create your video and mail it all in to:
The Today Show's "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort" Contest c/o The Today Show
30 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10112.
See official rules here.
And if your not the class winner, then you & your family can still be part of the action at Universal Studios Orlando to see Harry Potter & The Wizarding World....
Check out all the Orlando Vacation Packages to Universal Studios Orlando at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com