Posted on Wed, Nov 18, 2009 @ 07:19 AM
Win a Trip to Grand Opening of Harry Potter & The Wizarding World
The following article courtesy of Orlando Attractions Magazine
The Universal Orlando Resort is running a contest in which you can win a trip to the grand opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure.
The grand prize is a trip for four to Orlando to participate in the grand opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter sometime in Spring 2010. The official rules state that the specific grand opening dates are not yet determined. Trip package includes roundtrip plane tickets, three nights at a Universal Partner Hotel, and four 2-park Unlimited tickets.
Beyond the grand opening trip, other Potter-related prizes include magic wands, video games, DVDs, and other collectibles.
To enter, visit www.theroadtohogwarts.com and follow the instructions to fill out the registration form. In addition to the basic entry, completing various activities, like watching video clips or downloading wallpaper, will earn you additional entries into the contest.
Each participant can earn up to twenty-three entries throughout the course of the contest. The sweepstakes ends on Dec. 18, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. ET. with winners selected by the end of the year.
Remember, If you don't win, you can still be there for all the exciting action. Just check out all our Universal Studios Orlando Vacation Packages at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Harry Potter needs.
Posted on Mon, Nov 16, 2009 @ 07:36 AM
Disney World, Universal Studios & SeaWorld Orlando Holiday Season Events
We've recovered from the Halloween sugar rush just in time for the visions of sugar plums to kick in at our theme parks. Some events are under way already, some favorites are coming up, and there are even new offerings out there this year. There's plenty of time to pace yourself. No need to OD on pixie dust and poinsettias right away.
Walt Disney World
Some of the Disney yuletide events already are in place. At Magic Kingdom, guests can see Cinderella Castle undergo a nightly transformation into Castle Dreamlights! (now with exclamation point) mode, a white-light immersion. At Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Osbourne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is back with its annual full-on assault of choreographed twinkling.
Also underway is the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party series of after-hours, separate ticket events at Magic Kingdom. New to the party this year is A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas! (again with the exclamation point!) featuring Stitch, Buzz Lightyear and Mike Wazowski. Very Merry includes a special holiday parade (toy soldier alert), themed fireworks, free hot cocoa and other shows. Remaining dates are today, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Nov. 20 and 29, Dec. 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 18.
Disney's Animal Kingdom shifts its afternoon parade to a holiday version on Nov. 27 when Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade kicks off. It appears daily through Jan. 3.
Epcot goes into holiday mode Nov. 27 with its Holidays Around the World presentation at World Showcase, which sports an international flair plus a special ending to the IllumiNations display. Candlelight Processional, a mass choir and orchestra backing a narration of the Christmas story, begins that night as well. The first celebrity speaker is scheduled to be Isabella Rossellini.
All Disney holiday events - with the exception of Very Merry - are included in regular park admission.
Universal Orlando
The bulk of Universal's holiday celebration takes place at Universal Studios theme park. New to the lineup this year is a three-weekend concert series at Music Plaza, which will kick off with a performance by holiday megagroup Mannheim Steamroller on Dec. 5. Other artists will be Chris Isaak (Wicked Game) on Dec. 12 and Natalie Cole ("Unforgettable") on Dec. 19.
Isaak and Cole will mix holiday songs into their usual playlist. Show times are 7 p.m.
Each concert is preceded by the Macy's Holiday Parade, a collection of balloons and floats imported from the famed Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. There should be a Santa Claus sighting as well. The parades are daily from Dec. 5 to Jan. 1.
Three Universal shows get a holiday overlay: Blues Brothers Christmas Show (with snow on Delaney Street), Kidzone Holiday Show and Barney's Christmas Show. The Universal Cinesphere 360 show returns for a six-day stint beginning Dec. 26.
Next door at Islands of Adventure is the park's musical version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, which is performed several times a day, beginning Dec. 5. All of these Universal offerings are included in regular park admission.
SeaWorld Orlando
The Polar Express Experience, a pine-scented overlay of the park's Wild Arctic simulator, returns today for its third holiday season, and " Shamu Christmas ... Miracles," starring a killer whale and gospel music, comes back Nov. 27.
But SeaWorld also has three new holiday productions that will debut Nov. 27.
An ice rink will be built at Bayside Stadium, the location for Winter Wonderland on Ice, an ice-skating show. A Muppet-driven show called A Sesame Street Christmas, featuring Elmo and Big Bird, will be at Seaport Theater, and sea lions will continue their comedy antics in Clyde and Seamore's Countdown to Christmas. That duo has performed a holiday show before but this will be an all-new production, SeaWorld says.
These attractions are included in regular SeaWorld admission.
Still haven't got your tickets or Holiday Vacation Packages yet to Disney World, Universal Studios or SeaWorld Orlando? Then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Orlando Vacation Packages needs!!!
Posted on Fri, Nov 13, 2009 @ 06:44 AM
SeaWorld Orlando New & Returning Holiday Christmas Shows
This holiday season, families and friends can celebrate the holidays like never before at SeaWorld Orlando.
Guests can take an exciting trip to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express Experience. Plus, enjoy three all-new shows:
- Winter Wonderland on Ice, an ice-skating spectacular
- Clyde and Seamore's Countdown to Christmas, a holiday-themed comedy
- A Sesame Street Christmas, even the little ones can celebrate the spirit of the season with Elmo, Big Bird and other Sesame Street friends
The Polar Express Experience:
November 13 through January 3, SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into the North Pole -- and getting there is half the fun. The Polar Express Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg about a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.
As guests embark on The Polar Express Experience, classic scenes from the movie are recreated in a multi-sensory experience immersing passengers in special lighting, scent, sound and motion effects. Upon arrival at the North Pole, guests will discover a winter wonderland surrounded by holiday cheer and amazing animal encounters.
Winter Wonderland on Ice:
An all-new holiday-themed ice-skating spectacular, Winter Wonderland on Ice, debuts November 27 at SeaWorld's Bayside Stadium and continues select nights through January 3. Christmas comes to life with towering water fountains, magnificent fireworks and some of the most talented skaters in the world as they dazzle and delight families this holiday season.
Clyde and Seamore's Countdown to Christmas:
Families can enjoy this all-new Christmas comedy with their favorite loveable sea lions Clyde and Seamore, along with a few mischievous otters and a jolly walrus or two. Clyde and Seamore's Countdown to Christmas runs on select nights November 27 through January 3.
A Sesame Street Christmas:
Celebrate the holidays with friends from Sesame Street at SeaWorld - it's an all-new festive and fun musical celebration, A Sesame Street Christmas. The holidays have arrived, but Abby Cadabby doesn't understand what all the fuss is about ... she's never heard of Christmas. Elmo, Big Bird and other Sesame Street friends gather together to share with her the true spirit of the holiday. Following the show, families can create wonderful memories with their friends from Sesame Street during character meet-and-greets. Families can also enjoy a unique dining experience for the whole family: Elmo and Friends Christmas Breakfast.
Shamu Christmas ... Miracles:
As the winter air cools and the evening stars appear, families can join Shamu for a magnificent holiday show: Shamu Christmas ... Miracles. Shamu Stadium comes alive with bright lights and glowing candles as Christmas carols abound and Shamu splashes to celebrate the holiday season. This very special showing runs on select nights November 27 through January 3.
Makahiki Christmas Luau:
Igniting the spirit of the season is the Makahiki Christmas Luau, a South Seas-style festive celebration including tasty island cuisine keeping with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands. Joyful songs of the season are reinterpreted with Polynesian rhythms, music and dance. Makahiki Christmas Luau begins November 13 and continues through January 3 (except December 25). Park admission is not required.
New Year's Eve at SeaWorld:
Families can ring in the New Year at SeaWorld on December 31 with a musical extravaganza including the best in pop, Latin and swing music. At the stroke of midnight, the evening sky will shine even brighter with a vibrant fireworks show to celebrate the festivities.
Still haven't got tickets or booked your SeaWorld Vacation Package for the holiday's yet? Then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your SeaWorld Orlando needs!
Posted on Thu, Nov 12, 2009 @ 04:05 PM
Disney's Hollywood Studios Osborne Family of Lights
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is the primary Holiday Happening at the Disney's Hollywood Studios. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights sparkle with yuletide cheer. What began as a father's Christmas gift to his daughter has grown into a holiday tradition for many Walt Disney World guests with a dazzling display of millions of colorful lights and animated displays.
Bathed in bulbs of brilliance, the Streets of America glow with millions of dancing lights and animated displays November 10 through January 4, 2010. Amid gently falling snow, guests will bask in the glow as twirling carousels, melodic angels, colorful wreaths, marching toy soldiers and Santa and his reindeer move to high-energy music and 3-D effects, creating a dazzling symphony for the senses. The spectacle actually starts behind the scenes while the summer temperatures are still on the rise in Florida as dozens of Disney "elves" begin their meticulous work on more than 10 miles of rope lights, 130 angels, 44 snow machines and more.
Holiday cheer continues with the daily "Hollywood Holly-Day Parade" decked with favorite Disney characters in their holiday best, parading down Hollywood Boulevard. Click here for last years video.
Just what *is* the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights and how did it start?
Jennings Osborne, a Little Rock, Arkansas, businessman, began putting up lights nearly a decade ago, at the request of his young daughter. (Read our 2002 interview with Jennings Osborne HERE!) Each year, he added to the displays. When he ran out of room, Osborne bought the two houses on either side of his home so he could continue his creativity. Neighbors complained, however, and the Arkansas Supreme Court ruled in October 1994 that Osborne's house, when adorned with the 3 million lights, was a public nuisance. Although legally barred from causing a "spectacle", Osborne still lit the display three nights. He was found in contempt of court and fined $1,500. The court suspended a 10-day jail sentence, but ordered him to pay $7,000 in attorneys' fees. In 1995, the Walt Disney Company brought the Osborne Christmas lights to Walt Disney World! Disney's agreement with Osborne gives it the option of keeping the display for 5 years, possibly longer.
It sounds very impressive -- what exactly does the display entail?
The Spectacle of Lights includes:
-- 5 million lights
-- 32 miles of extension cables
-- 66 snow machines
-- 100 gallons of snow fluid a night
-- 43 hidden Mickeys
In 2006, the spectacle was enhanced to include choreographed "dancing" lights that swirl and soar to an exhilarating medley of holiday music every 15 minutes, thanks to electronic wizardry featuring more than 400 dimmers. Every building facade, all the trees, wreaths, bells and holiday figures dance to classic tunes among "Florida snow" flurries. Also bringing the Disney's Hollywood Studios backlot to life are three-dimensional and motion-based displays - some originally created at the Osborne home in Arkansas by businessman Jennings Osborne as a holiday display for the delight of his daughter.
How much does it cost to view the Osborne Lights?
There is no extra admission charged for the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights beyond admission to the Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Where exactly are the Osborne Lights located?
The Lights used to start at the beginning of New York Street at the back of Disney's Hollywood Studios. As of 2004, they are located in the revamped "Streets of America" city backlots. Every night there is a brief lighting ceremony and guests are directed to walk down through the lights along the backlot area.
How long are the Osborne Lights on display? Are they shown every night during the holiday season?
The Osborne Lights usually have special previews just before Thanksgiving. They are officially unveiled after Thanksgiving and are displayed every night until the first week of the new year.
If you have comments or tips to share with others about touring the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, please post them. We would love to hear from you.
Still haven't got tickets yet to Disney's Hollywood Studios or your Disney Vacation Package yet? Then check out our website at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com for all your Disney needs.
Posted on Tue, Nov 10, 2009 @ 07:31 AM
Jungle Jack Hanna at SeaWorld & Busch Gardens
The following courtesy of Orlando Attractions Magazine
Celebrity animal expert Jungle Jack Hanna will be appearing at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa, each for a weekend on the wild side. Jungle Jack will be appearing at Busch Gardens this weekend, Nov. 14 and 15 and at SeaWorld on Nov. 21 and 22. He'll will be putting on two shows per day featuring animals from all over the world. His shows at Busch Gardens will be at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. at SeaWorld.
In addition to the shows, you can get more personal with Hanna during these special events:
Jack Hanna Family Sleepover at Busch Gardens:
Join Jack for a night of family experiences by going behind the scenes and spend the evening enjoying interactive activities while encountering animal nightlife, including an animal encounter hosted by Jack Hanna. Then sleep overnight at an onsite venue and with a continental breakfast the next morning. The sleepover runs 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. each night.
Jack Hanna Serengeti Night Safari at Busch Gardens
Explore the nighttime mysteries of hippos, lions and hyenas under the moon's light. Then, continue on a guided safari expedition, complete with night vision monoculars, on the 65-acre Serengeti Plain. End with a gathering around the bonfire with Jack for tales of African lore.
Breakfast With Jack Hanna at Busch Gardens and SeaWorld
An opportunity to get up close with Jack's furry friends.
To book your reservation for any of the special events, call 888-800-5447. The daily shows are included with park admission.
Still haven't got tickets yet to SeaWorld or Busch Gardens? Check out all our Orlando Vacation Packages for your next SeaWorld or Busch Gardens Vacation.
Posted on Sat, Nov 07, 2009 @ 07:03 AM
Weekend of Fun at Fantasy of Flight
The Following article courtesy of Orlando Attractions Magazine
Roar n' Soar, Fantasy of Flight's signature two-day extravaganza of the world's finest classic land, sea and air racing machines ever built, will return this weekend. Now in its third year, the event promises an even bigger combination air show, classic car show and slalom competition, boat show and regatta and extreme sports showcase held Fantasy of Flight in Polk City, Fla., midway between Orlando and Tampa.
Roar n' Soar takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7 and Sunday, Nov. 8 (gates open at 9 a.m.) at the attraction's spacious lakefront grounds and airfield. Throughout the two-day festival, the best of the best in aviation perform precision aerial maneuvers in Fantasy of Flight owner and founder Kermit Weeks' "World's Greatest Aircraft Collection" including the Grumman Duck, P51-C and Fokker DR-1. Pilots will be on hand between maneuvers to greet guests. Challenging their full-size counterparts, giant-scale model aircraft will strut their stuff in their own demonstration of formation flying, precision aerobatics and aerial combat maneuvers.
A team of powered paragliders will also create a colorful canopy in the sky as they demonstrate the world's smallest, most personal aircraft in which they wear their motors on their backs. Not to be outdone, Neal Goss, the Guinness World Records oldest living hang glider at 89 years old, will be on-hand to demonstrate his record-breaking techniques.
Meanwhile, classic car lovers will enjoy seeing the Rare, Antique, Classic & Exotic Car Show, marveling at classic and one-of-a-kind luxury automobiles including Jaguar, Austin-Healy, Ferrari, BMW and Porsche. These stunning cars aren't just for show - many of them feature the horsepower and torque to kick up some dust in the sanctioned Jaguar Slalom competition, in which drivers of all types of classic cars will test their mettle by maneuvering through a cone-lined course on the hangar tarmac.
Vintage race boats are just as plentiful at Roar n' Soar, where the Classic Race Boat Association is hosting as many as 50 of the most elegant and powerful race boats ever built in exhibition fly-bys on the mile-and-a-half-course along Lake Agnes. Boats and their drivers will be available between runs to meet with guests and take photos. Orlando Culvert Dodgers will be running gasoline and nitro methane powered radio-control model boats in a race-like, oval course on Lake Agnes.
Special "Kid's Crew" children's activities are offered as part of the event where kids can try their hand at flying their own hot air balloon and hang gliding simulators in Fantasy of Flight's "Fun with Flight," with prizes awarded for precision landings.
Fantasy of Flight is partnering with Homefront Hugs USA to pack holiday gift packages to ship to U.S. Troops overseas. Guests pre-purchasing tickets or buying them at the gate who
also bring a donated item from a list of the soldiers' most desirable items will receive $5 off one event ticket for one donated item.
Items include:
• $20 AT&T Prepaid phone card
• Bulk package of beef jerky
• Multi-packs of chewing gum
• Packages of note cards
• Packages of protein bars
One-day tickets are available for adults for $23 per person with one child ages 6 to 15 free ($12 value) with a paying adult. Two-day tickets are available for adults for $38 per person with one child ages 6to 15 free ($19 value) with a paying adult. Children 5 and younger are free. Active military and veterans may purchase a weekend event pass for $15 per person and receive a free weekend pass for a child. Valid Military ID required at time of purchase. Discounted rate is not valid for additional guests.
For more information or to purchase Roar n' Soar tickets, call 863-984-3500 or visit fantasyofflight.com.
Also check out all the Orlando Vacation Packages at www.orlandodiscountticketsusa.com that we offer to Disney World & other Orlando area theme parks.
Posted on Sun, Nov 01, 2009 @ 10:43 AM
Disney World's Annual Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Event Dates & Info
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is a special event that is held each winter on select nights at Disney's Magic Kingdom that requires a seperate ticket to attend...This event is filled with a Holly Jolly Holiday Parade, Fireworks & Live Entertainment.
The event will be held from 7pm - 12am on the following dates in 2009:
November 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29
December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18
View all of our Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Vacation Packages and have a chance to see Magic Kingdom theme park all decked out for Christmas as you celebrate the yuletide magic with the ones you love, and join in a festive special event that is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party features:
- The enchanted Castle Dream Lights at Cinderella's Castle
- Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, complete with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself.
- An exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza - Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
- Live entertainment featuring Disney Characters
- Meet and greet opportunities throughout Magic Kingdom theme park with some of your favorite Disney Characters
- Complimentary cookies and hot cocoa
- A magical snow fall on Main Street, U.S.A.
- Many of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions
Tickets may be purchased in advance and the event can sell out. Standard Magic Kingdom theme park admission tickets will not allow Guests to attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
Click here for a couple of video's from last years Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Parade that we hope you enjoy!