Wells Fargo Stage Coach

Memorial Day is the day of the year that Americans pay their respects for the American soldiers that have paid the ultimate sacrifice of their lives to provide us with the rights and liberties that we so often take for granted.

You only need to turn on the news on any given day to see the suppression and turmoil going on in other parts of the world to really help you appreciate just how great we have it. First created to honor the Union and Confederate soldiers that lost their lives in the Civil War, Memorial Day is now recognized as an official holiday to recognize soldiers that have died in all American wars.

Sanford Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance Ceremony

The best way to celebrate Memorial Day is at the Sanford Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance Ceremony on Monday, May 27th, 2013. The 2013 parade will begin at 10 AM and will honor our military with parade floats and ceremonies. The 2012 event included the Wells Fargo horse drawn stage coach (see picture above), members of the Tuskegee Airmen, a helicopter flyover, and the Shriners with their full contingent of vehicles and antics. The parade route is in historic downtown Sanford along 1st street (see video and map below).

The American Adventure at Epcot

Another great way to celebrate Memorial Day is to go see the American Adventure audio-animatronic show at Epcot in Disney World that tells the American story with a poignant moment when a family is driven apart by the Civil War. While you are at the American Adventure, stay to watch and listen to the Voices of Liberty A Capella group and the Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps that sing and play classic American tunes.

Memorial Day Weekend

In addition to the Memorial Day events, click here to see other annual events going on around Orlando during Memorial Day weekend including Star Wars weekends at Hollywood Studios and the Orlando Fringe Festival.

Orlando Local Guide is very proud of American service men and women and salutes our military this Memorial Day.

Sanford Memorial Day Parade

Downtown Sanford Map

View Larger Map

Regal Cinema at Waterford Lakes

Regal Entertainment Group is offering $1 tickets for all ages to select G or PG-rated movies during the summer. The 9-week promotion is valid on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00am at 9 Central Florida theaters.

$1 Kid Movies in Orlando

Below is a listing of the featured $1 titles:

Click Here to visit Regal’s website for a complete listing of showtimes at each theater.

Regal Move Theater Locations

View Regal Cinemas in Orlando in a larger map

© Quest Inc

Orlando’s premier Wine Charity Event, Winequest, takes place at the Grande Lakes Resort at the JW Marriott on Friday, June 7th, 2013 and Saturday, June 8th, 2013.

Winequest 2013

Winequest is a culinary full weekend of events that features great food and a wide selection of wines including a grand wine tasting with 250 international wines available on Friday, June 7th, 2013 from 7 pm - 9:30 pm and a five-course wine dinner on Saturday June 8th, 2013 that begins with a Sparking Wine Reception at 7 pm and a dinner and auction at 8 pm.

Grand Lakes Resort JW Marriott

All of the events are being held at the JW Marriott at the Grande Lakes Resort that shares the property with the Marriott’s sister property, the Ritz Carlton. The JW Marriott was the first resort to build an elaborate lazy river in the front of the property and the Norman’s Restaurant at the Ritz Carlton is featured as one of our 10 best romantic restaurants around Orlando.

Serving more than 1,100 children and adults with disabilities daily

Winequest is the main fundraiser for non-profit Quest Inc, an agency with the United Way, that has been serving the Orlando community for almost 50 years. Quest works with adults and children that strugle with ailments such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome and other developmental disabilities to help them achieve their goals in life through resources such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and educational professionals for children and job training for adults.

With cuts for such programs continuing to be cut at the state and national level, it is up to the community of Orlando to take care of it’s own when helping out those that need more assistance than most. Winequest is a great way to spend a weekend and help out those that are less fortunate.

Click Here to visit the official website for Winequest for more information and purchase tickets to the event.

Click Here to visit the Orlando Local Guide Forum for the event for more information and to see more pictures from past events.

Winequest

Grande Lakes Resort Map

View Larger Map

Bret Michaels is the lead singer of the rock and roll band Poison whose most popular songs include “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” and “Something to Believe In”.

Downtown Concert Series

Four times a year, radio station WMMO puts on a free outdoor concert in downtown Orlando that they call the Downtown Concert Series. The concerts bring in a large audience and vendors. Previous concerts have included Kenny Loggins, Huey Lewis, Blues Traveler, the Spin Doctors, Rick Springfield, the B-52′s, Sugar Ray, REO Speedwagon, and Yes.

Downtown Concert Series Promotional Video

Every Rose Has Its Thorn Video

Downtown Concert Series Map

View Larger Map

© Mucho Tequila & Tacos

Cinco de Mayo is celebrated all around Orlando and the biggest parties can be found in Downtown Orlando at Church Street and Wall Street.

Cinco de Mayo 2013

Downtown Orlando’s biggest parties are centered around the usual venues of Church Street Bars and Wall Street with Church Street’s Drinko De Mayo party and Wall Street’s Cinco de Mayo Block Party. The Church Street party takes place on Saturday, May 4th, 2013 and will feature a free mustache ride shot for everyone who attends. They will also have 2-4-1 Corona Bottles, $5 Patron, $3 Donkey Punch, and $3 Frozen Margaritas.

Wall Street has it’s Mexican restaurant and bar Wall Street Cantina amongst it’s 7 other venues and will feature their whole street decked out in pinatas, sombreros, and other Mexican decor. The Drinko De Mayo event will take place on Saturday and Sunday in 2013 on May 4th and May 5th.

Cinco de Mayo in Thornton Park

A couple of other spots to check out in Downtown Orlando over in Thornton Park is Mucho Tequila and Tacos Restaurant that will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with their Mucho de Mayo Party (see picture above) and Tijuana Flats that will have $2 Mexican beers. The fourth annual Mucho De Mayo will take place all day on Saturday and Sunday with no cover on both days and will take place at both Mucho Tequila and Tacos Restaurant and Sonoma across the street.

Adobe Gila’s at Pointe Orlando on International Drive

Cinco de Mayo is the best day of the year to visit Pointe Orlando on International Drive. Adobe Gila’s is one of the few surviving restaurants of Pointe Orlando since it originally opened and it shows why with it’s friendly atmosphere and great Mexican dishes and drinks. For Cinco de Mayo, the area outside of the bar turns into a street party with live music all night long. For 2013, there will be free admission and 3 live bands from 4 pm until 2 am.

Cocina 214 and PR’s Taco Palace in Winter Park

Cocina 214 in Winter Park is the best sit-down Tex-Mex restaurant in Orlando and will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a block party on E. Welbourne Avenue and Park Avenue on Saturday afternoon from 10 am until 2 pm and on Sunday there will be a DJ spinning latin music with dancing from 12pm until 10pm.

PR’s Taco Palace

PR’s Taco Palace is another great sit-down Mexican restaurant and bar in Orlando that caters to the Rollins College crowd. Come dressed casual to PR’s and enjoy the relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere with great Mexican dishes and a full bar.

Cinco de Mayo at the Mexican Pavilion at Epcot at Disney World

If you are celebrating Cinco de Mayo at Disney World, head straight over to the Tequila Bar at the Mexico Pavilion in Epcot and dance around with your family to the Mariachi Band. La Hacienda De San Angel features Queso Fundido (warmed cheese with poblano peppers and chorizo) and grilled red snapper and has excellent seating for the nightly fireworks. San Angel Inn offers grilled Mahi Mahi and Tacos de Ribeye for a relaxing sit-down dinner. La Cava del Tequila serves tapas-style dishes.

Click Here to check out our forum thread for more photos and videos of Cinco de Mayo events around Orlando including the Mariachi Band that plays at Epcot.

Cinco de Mayo at Wall Street

Mariachi Band at Epcot

Cinco de Mayo Map

View Cinco de Mayo in a larger map

© Medieval Times

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12th, 2013 and there are a lot of great restaurants and places where Mom can eat for free and play for free with free admission. This is Orlando Local Guide’s Guide for free things for Mom to do on Mother’s Day in Orlando in 2013.

Free Dinner for Mom on Mother’s Day in Orlando

Orlando-based Talk of the Town Restaurants owns some of the nicer upscale restaurants around Orlando in the International Drive, Dr Phillips (Restaurant Row), and Lake Buena Vista areas of Orlando and each of it’s restaurant brands offer mom a free 10 oz Filet with house salad and bread on Mother’s Day with the purchase of another entree that is about a $35 value. The participating restaurants for the deal include Charley’s Steak House, FishBones, and Vito’s Chop House on International Drive, MoonFish in Dr. Phillips, and Johnnie’s Hideaway in the Lake Buena Vista area. The free meal is a great deal but your check could still easily reach the range of $100 depending on the appetizers, drinks, and desserts that are purchased so this is not a frugal night out to eat but a tasty one.

Free Admission on Activities for Mom on Mother’s Day in Orlando

Mom receives free admission to one of Orlando’s most popular dinner shows in Medieval Times the week of Mother’s Day(May 6th, 2013 through May 12th, 2013). Medieval Times is one of the oldest dinner shows out there and is still one of the best. Medieval jousters battle in the round on horses with kings and queens standing watch. Medieval Times is a great attraction to experience with your younger children.

Click Here to purchase tickets with the special code that is required for mom to get her free admission on Medieval Times.

Outside of Medieval Times, mom also get’s in free at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando.

Click Here for Orlando Local Guide’s recommendation for all Mother’s Day activities including making Disney crafts at home.

Jim Carrey goes to Medieval Times

Mother’s Day Free Activities Map

View Mother’s Day Free for Mom in a larger map

Downtown Orlando Derby Day

The biggest event in Orlando is Derby Day in Downtown Orlando at Ember that is presented by Loyal Source and benefits The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Derby Day will be held on May 4th, 2013 from 3:30 pm until 7:30 pm. Ember is one of the best outside bars in all of Orlando to spend some great times with friends and colleagues.

Derby Day Fee
The price of the event from February 20th through April 30th, 2013 is $50 per person or 4 people for $160. The price at the door is $60 per person.

Admission includes:

• All the drinks you want (alcohol and non-alcohol)
• All the food you can consume
• A silent auction with ‘have to have’ items
• Raffle give-a-ways
• Music and Dancing
• Best Hat Contest

There will be a viewing of the 2 most exciting minutes in sports history in the Kentucky Derby on multiple large screen televisions.

Click here for more information about the Derby Day event and click here to purchase tickets.

2013 Derby Day Flyer

Winter Park Annual Derby on Park

Another great Kentucky Derby event to attend in Orlando in 2013 is at the Winter Park Country Club for the the Winter Park Annual event Derby on Park.

Included with admission to Derby on Park is select menu items from Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Taps Restaurant, John & Shirley’s Catering, Barnie’s Coffee Kitchen, and a side bar serving complimentary cocktails. There will also be a cash bar for premium liquor, a cigar roller, and two live bands.

A live showing of the Kentucky Derby will be shown outside and inside the country club on multiple TVs and on a 10 ft digital projection screen.

A contest for the top 3 best hats and best dressed male will be held and multiple silent auction items which including vacation stays and gift cards to benefit the ASPCA.

Derby on Park Hours and Tickets

Derby on Park will be held from 4 pm until 10 pm. Tickets for the event are $35 and can be purchased here.

Best Sports Bars in Orlando to watch the Kentucky Derby

Outside of the events listed above, there will be plenty of sports bars around Orlando showing the Kentucky Derby. Click here to view our guide to the best sports bars around Orlando to watch major sporting events like the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby.

2013 Derby on the Park Video

Kentucky Derby in Orlando Map

View Kentucky Derby Events in Orlando in a larger map

© Orlando Local Guide

Aging water systems can threaten water quality

Age is rarely kind to community infrastructure such as roads, bridges and sewer systems. Even relatively new water treatment facilities are struggling to keep up with population growth, tighter pollution restrictions and increased water runoff secondary to development. Cities and towns are struggling to provide healthy drinking water to residents and return treated and healthy water from sewage systems to the planet. Despite the best of intentions, we often fail at one or both of the processes and a primary reason is the age of most sewer systems.

Poor drinking water

Most Americans take the safety of their drinking water for granted. Water polluted with coliform – or fecal – bacteria seems like a problem that couldn’t happen in the United States. But that’s not the case. Drinking water supplies are potentially at risk for coliform bacteria contamination with every rainfall or snowstorm. The water run-off from these weather events can overwhelm a community water treatment facility’s capacity, in an event known as a “combined sewage overflow,” or CSO.

Chemicals in water

Other communities routinely provide tap water to their residents that contains chemicals known to be harmful to human health. Residents are rarely notified of their tap water quality unless they choose to have it tested by a private company. A study conducted by the Environmental Working Group ranked different municipalities’ tap water quality in a 100 city list of descending quality. Florida’s need to improve its water infrastructure was noted by the number of cities and counties on the list, such as:

• Odessa at No. 20
• Manatee County at No. 38
• Miami at No. 46
• Pinellas County at No. 57
• Hillsborough County at No. 65
• Tampa at No. 68
• Orlando at No. 81
• Cocoa at No. 86
• Jacksonville at No. 91
• Pensacola, last and worst on the list at No. 100

Specifically, the study noted that Orlando – home to half a million residents and a destination for millions – received a low rating due to the presence of 17 chemicals in tap water, seven of which could pose health hazards.

Hard water

There has long been a demand for Florida water softeners due to the high mineral content of most of its drinking water. While high mineral content isn’t a health risk, it can cause problems in homes, such as:

• Mineral build-up in appliances, such as coffee makers or washing machines, that can reduce functionality
• Stained laundry
• Buildup in pipes that reduces water pressure
• Stains on sinks and tubs, or around faucets
• Increased consumption of detergents, due to hard water’s negative impact on lathering capability
• Stained and spotty dishes

What to do about your water

Home filtration systems, simple pitcher-style water filters or simply switching to bottled water can eliminate many health concerns about tap water. And while you may be able to remove hard water stains in your home, a water softener can eliminate them from developing in the first place.

If you have doubts about the safety or purity of your water, you can buy a water testing kit to determine what’s in your water, or hire a professional to test your water and make recommendations about how to remedy problems.

Florida Aquifer Informational Video

About the Author

Grady Winston is an avid internet entrepreneur and copywriter from Indianapolis. He has worked in the fields of technology, business, marketing, and advertising implementing multiple creative projects and solutions for a range of clients.

© First Presbyterian Church of Orlando

Some of the best chefs in Orlando will be heading to Downtown Orlando on Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013 for A Taste of Compassion Street Party from 6 PM – 9 PM on the street that runs through the campus of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando.

A Taste of Compassion

We cover a lot of food and drink events here at Orlando Local Guide but this is one we’d really like to showcase because of the mission behind it. A Taste of Compassion supports two of the biggest organizations in downtown Orlando whose only purpose is to help and support the areas homeless population in the Central Care Mission and Compassion Corner. The event is a collaboration of the two ministries and some of Orlando’s best chefs and restaurants.

A Taste of Compassion Chefs and Restaurants

Some of the chefs that will be participating in the 2013 Taste of Compassion event include chefs from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, the American Culinary Federation, Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort, Shula’s 347 Grill, Luigino’s Restaurant, Valencia College, Timeless Pastries, and Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge (see video at end of story).

The entire list of participating chefs and restaurants for the 2013 event are:

• AAA National Headquarters
• American Culinary Federation – Central Florida Chapter
• Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge
• Arthur’s Creative Events & Catering
• Bar Harbor Seafood/Boston Lobster Feast
• Caribe Royale Resort & Suites
• Catered By Patti Caces
• Citrus Club
• Cookie Cousins
• Empress Sissi Cake & Pastry Specialties
• FreshPoint of Central Florida
• Gordon Food Service
• LeCordon Bleu – Orlando
• Luigino’s Restaurant – Lake Mary
• MUSE Gelato
• Nestle Professional
• Shula’s 347 Grill at the Westin, Lake Mary
• Spring Hills Corp.
• Technical Education Center of Osceola’s Culinary Program
• The Green Coat Catering Co.
• Timeless Pastries
• Valencia College’s Culinary Management Program
• Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort
• Westgate Smokehouse Grill

A Taste of Compassion Entertainment

In addition to the great food at A Taste of Compassion, there will also be street performers and musicians on hand entertaining guests with their musical and artistic performances including a stilt walker, a living statue, music by Nancy & Randy Blue on Violin & Flute that will be performing throughout the areas of the event, and violinist Hector Aguilar performing in the event center.

Childcare is available for children under 5 years of age.

A Taste of Compassion Auction

For additional fundraising, there is an online auction being held that features a pair of 7 night Caribbean stays in Antigua, a 7 night stay in Barbados and another in St. Lucia. Locally there is a Rosen Shingle Creek Resort & Golf Club Package and a Water Park Pool Party at CoCo Key Water Resort, theme park tickets, and more. Click here to see all of the items up for auction and to place your bids.

A Taste of Compassion Ministries

The two ministries to benefit from A Taste of Compassion are the Central Care Mission and Compassion Corner in Downtown Orlando:

Central Care Mission

Central Care Mission is a men’s long-term residential facility designed to help transform their lives by addressing drug, alcohol and destructive lifestyle abuse. Central Care Mission seeks to help the whole person – spiritually, emotionally, educationally and vocationally by equipping men with life skills that is necessary to gain a re-entry into society with appropriate skills, a sense of self worth,and qualifications for employment and independent living. By transforming “the man”, Central Care Mission transforms the family which then transforms the community.

Compassion Corner

Compassion Corner is an urban outreach ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando that seeks to provide a place of welcome to those who are all too often unwelcome, introducing the homeless of Orlando to the love of Jesus Christ. Through one-on-one evangelism, group Bible study, Christian videos and friendship, the focus is to introduce Christ and teach the Word of God.

Some of the ministries of Compassion Corner involve one-on-one discipleship where various leaders take one homeless person at a time and work with them on a personal basis to assist with housing, job training, and spiritual growth. The Good News Breakfast is held every Sunday morning at 6am at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando where an average of 250 homeless are fed. The men of the Central Care Mission, many of whom are just off the streets, serve the breakfast following a time of worship and a sermon. All are welcome to come eat as well as come serve. Compassion Corner also provides a place of rest for the homeless upon their death and cremation at the Columbarium located at the corner of Edington Way and Jackson Street. The church provides pastoral care, the sacraments, and funeral service free of charge to friends of the Compassion Corner who have passed from this age to the next.

A Taste of Compassion Tickets

Individual tickets for the 2012 event were $75 with corporate sponsorship’s available. Click here for more information about A Taste of Compassion and to purchase tickets.

2013 Taste of Compassion Flyer

A Taste of Compassion Video 2013

A Taste of Compassion Street Party 2012

First Presbyterian Church of Orlando Map

View Larger Map

Orlando International Fringe Festival

The Orlando International Fringe Festival takes place at Loch Haven Park beginning Wednesday, May 15th, 2013 and continues through Memorial Day Weekend until Tuesday, May 28th, 2013.

Orlando International Fringe Festival

According to the dictionary, the word Fringe is defined as:

unofficial; not conventional in form

That pretty much sums up the Orlando International Fringe Festival. It’s artsy, funny, in a fart joke sort of way, and contains all types of performances, from general admission performances that are great for the whole family to enjoy to very mature performances that you might see on a late-night HBO documentary series. This is the grown-up side of Orlando’s arts and performances scene.

The 14-day-festival is founded on the concept of offering 100% unjuried, 100% uncensored, 100% accessible theatre, music, dance, and art to all types and ages where 100% of the box office ticket sales go directly back to the artists within The Fringe. The Orlando Fringe is the longest running Fringe Festival in the United States, celebrating 21 years as “Orlando’s most unique cultural experience”. Orlando Fringe is a proud member of the United States Association of Fringe Festivals (USAFF) www.fringefestivals.us and the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals (CAFF) www.fringefestivals.com.

This is one of Orlando’s biggest festivals of the entire year and gets a huge turnout.

Orlando Fringe Festival Event Information

The Orlando Fringe Festival is held at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater and the Orlando Repertory Theatre in Loch Haven Park. Admission for the shows for the 2013 event ranged from free admission through $11 plus a $1 service charge. A majority of the shows were between $8 and $11.

Click Here to see the best coverage of the festival from Orlando Weekly and here for coverage from the Daily City.

Click Here to visit the official site of the Orlando Fringe Festival.

Wet (Orlando Fringe Festival)

When Pigs Fly (Orlando Fringe Festival)

Orlando Fringe Festival Map

View Larger Map

Earthday Birthday 2013

Earthday Birthday is Orlando’s biggest rock and roll and heavy metal outdoor event that is held each year around the Earth Day Holiday. Eighteen headlining rock bands are scheduled for the all day music event in 2013 including Papa Roach, Stone Sour, Steel Panther, Hell or Highwater, and more.

Click here to visit the official site for the event to see all of the bands.

Tickets are on sale now starting at $59.

Earth Day Event In Orlando

Outside of the Earthday Birthday concerts, click here to visit the main Earth Day event that is held at Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando each year.

Korn Headlining Earthday Birthday in 2010

Tinker Field Map

View Larger Map

Photo Credit: Latu’s Photography

Downtown Orlando goes green on Saturday, April 20th, 2013 to celebrate Earth Day from 10 AM – 6 PM for Central Florida Earth Day 2013.

Central Florida Earth Day

Every April, 200-300 environmentally friendly vendors specializing in organic and recycled materials and environmentally sustaining materials set up their tents along Lake Eola to show off their products to the public. This is Orlando’s Bohemian lifestyle on display that has mass appeal to the average Orlando resident that wants to start living a healthier, more environmentally responsible lifestyle.

Earth Day Entertainment and Cuisine

In addition to the marketplace vendors at the Earth Day Festival, there will be speaker panels on environmental issues of saving energy and building local food networks, acoustic and hybrid musical artist as well as musical bands. There will also be a children’s area to help teach environmental responsibilities to the next generation.

Several  local restaurants will be showcasing their environmental ways of food preparation of vegetarian, raw cooking, and all organic cooking and baking.

Below is the schedule for the 2013 event that is subject to change (click here for the official 2013 schedule for the most up-to-date information):

2013 Earth Day Schedule

Speaker Panels (sponsored by the Orlando Sentinel)

TBA Building a Local Food Network
TBA Edible Landscaping
TBA Health and Wellness
TBA Our Energy Future
TBA Sustainable Government Practices
TBA Water Conservation
TBA Youth Involvement

Acoustic Music Stage (Sponsored by Ourlando Music Alliance and presented by Rahoe Productions & Representation)

11:00 a.m. TBA
12:00 p.m. Freethought M.C. “Humanist hip hop/neo soul/freethought rap (clean)”
1:00 p.m. Anthony Rouhana “Contemporary folk”
2:00 p.m. Scott Forbes “Indie rock storyteller with an acoustic guitar”
3:00 p.m. John David Williams
4:00 p.m. BellaSutra “Blissful, sacred, soulful, stripped down gypsy music”
5:00 p.m. Afeefa & the boy “Indie/folk four piece band with feminine magic”

Band Music Stage (Sponsored by Ourlando Music Alliance and presented by Chris Baranyi)

11:00 a.m. The Dealers “High energy rock and roll!”
12:00 p.m. Sol Y Mar “Contemorary jazz, fusion with a Latin twist”
1:00 p.m. The Rads “Alternative rock”
2:00 p.m. Hotel Hurry “Rock & roll & violin”
3:00 p.m. Claire and the Potatoes “Sugary retro pop songs with boy/girl harmonies”
4:00 p.m. Gabriela “Soulful & jazzy, latin acoustic funk”
5:00 p.m. Cherri Ryno “Loud, powerful, classic rock with a bluesy touch”

Earth Kids Zone (Presented by HippoMotion)

11:00 a.m. TBA
12:00 p.m. TBA
1:00 p.m. TBA
2:00 p.m. TBA
3:00 p.m. TBA
4:00 p.m. TBA
5:00 p.m. TBA

Food Preparation Demonstrations (Sponsored by Vegetarians of Central Florida)

11:00 a.m. TBA
12:00 p.m. TBA
1:00 p.m. TBA
2:00 p.m. TBA
3:00 p.m. TBA
4:00 p.m. TBA
5:00 p.m. TBA

Click Here to visit the official website of Central Florida Earthday.

Click Here to view the photo gallery from Latu’s Photography of Earth Day Events and click here to read our guide to drinking water quality in the city of Orlando.

Earthday Birthday Concert by WJRR

Click Here if you are looking for information regarding the Earthday Birthday Rock Festival by radio station WJRR that will take place on April 13th, 2013.

Central Florida Earth Day

Central Florida Earth Day Map at Lake Eola

View Downtown Orlando Churches in a larger map

© Orlando Local Guide

Waterford Lakes has an annual spring carnival during the Easter break that they call the Waterford Lakes Fun Fair. The fair runs Friday, 4/5/2013  at 5:00 PM through Sunday, 4/14/2013 until 11:00 PM

Waterford Lakes Fun Fair

The fair is held in the parking lot behind the movie theater at Waterford Lakes Town Center. This event features carnival rides, games of skill, food and entertainment in addition to a Kiddieland designed especially for small children, courtesy of Strates Shows Midway.

The 2013 Hours of Operation are:
Monday through Friday – Fair opens at 5 pm
Saturday and Sunday – Fair opens at 1 pm

Unlimited Ride Special – Ride all rides from opening to closing for $18 per person.

Waterford Lakes Fun Fair

Waterford Lakes Map

View Larger Map

Taste of Pointe Orlando

A majority of the best restaurants on I-drive are located in Pointe Orlando that is located about a block away from the Orange County Convention Center. With the names listed above, there will a wide choice of food options including Italian, Cuban, Mexican, BBQ and Greek dishes.

Outside of the sit-down restaurants, Pizzeria Valdiano has some of the best pizza in Orlando with several locations around the city and Ben and Jerry’s will be providing ice cream.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Esophageal Cancer Program at Florida Hospital Cancer Institute.

Taste of Pointe Orlando Tickets

Tickets to the event cost $30 in advanced or $35 on the day of the event that covers the costs of the food and can be purchased here.

After the official event ends at 5pm, take in a movie that the Regal Movie Theater located at Pointe Orlando and take in some music at the BB King’s Blues Club.

Many of the restaurants of Pointe Orlando have made it on our list of top romantic restaurants on I-Drive that you can read about here.

Click here for more information about International Drive and here for more food events around Orlando during the year.

Pointe Orlando Map

View Larger Map

Taste of College Park 2013

College Park is one of Orlando’s oldest and best neighborhoods that is located a few miles North of Downtown Orlando. College Park’s main street is Edgewater Drive which contains many great restaurants from romantic Italian, American restaurants, and great breakfast dives. The Taste of College Park is a celebration of this historic district that benefits some great causes like the Ronald McDonald House.

Participants for the 2013 Festival are TBA. Some of the 2012 participants included the Tap Room at Dubsdread, Les Petits Pleasures French Pastry and Bakery, Julianna’s, Cafe Positano, Infusion Tea, Chocolate Provocateur, Orlando Brewing, Cookie Cousins, The Yum Yum Truck and Publix. Some of the entrees from the 2011 event included Maryland Style Crab Cakes served with Remoulade, Assorted Maki Rolls, Citrus Cured Salmon, Crème Fraiche, and a Pork Tenderloin Confit.

Taste of College Park Tickets and Auction

The Taste of College Park is also a charity event that is held by the Rotary Club of College Park in which all profits from this event will benefit the Ronald McDonald House, local schools, and other charities. The price to attend is $50 in advance. In addition to the culinary side of the event, there will also be a live and silent auction. The 2011 auction  included such items as a 6 night stay and cooking class in Tuscany, Italy and 3 nights stay in San Francisco that includes a side trip to Napa Valley.

Click here to purchase tickets to the event.

Taste of Orlando Events

The Taste of College Park is one of the premier food and wine festivals that happens annually in Orlando. Click Here to view all of the different food and wine taste-of events that happen throughout the year in Orlando including the Taste of Winter Park happening before the College Park event on April 17th, 2013 and A Taste of Compassion in Downtown Orlando on April 23rd, 2013.

Click Here to visit the official site for the event.

Click Here to visit the facebook page for the event for the latest updates.

Taste of College Park Overview:

Taste of College Park Sights and Sounds:

Taste of College Park Map

View Larger Map

© West Orange Chamber of Commerce

The West Orange County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their annual Best Fest Food and Wine event at Veranda Park in Metrowest on Thursday, April 11th, 2013 from 5 PM until 8:30 PM in Veranda Park.

Best Fest Restaurants List

The Best Fest event highlights some of the best restaurants on the west side of Orlando including Hagan O’Reilly’s, House Blend Cafe, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, Pammie’s Sammies, The Big Easy, Teak Neighborhood Grill, Zorba’s Greek Taverna, and more. Click on the image above for a listing of all participating restaurants and caterers.

Best Fest Ticket Information

Tickets for Best Fest 2013 are $31 in advanced and $41 at the door and can be purchased here or by calling 407-656-1304.

Click here for a listing of several other great food events happening around Orlando throughout the year.

2013 Best Fest Promotional Flyer

2013 Best Fest Promotional Video

Veranda Park Map

View Larger Map

© Orlando Local Guide

Know your rights before renting an apartment

The decision about whether to rent an apartment or buy a home is complicated, because each offers different advantages. Apartment life is convenient and flexible; buying a home provides stability and is typically seen as a good investment.

If you are moving to Orlando, Fla., the recent rise in the median price of a home might sway your decision. The housing market is rebounding in Orlando, and home prices rose 22.04 percent in 2012. Rising home prices make renting a necessity for some people, but even if you can afford to buy, renting can be a smart financial choice, especially if you find an apartment that suits your lifestyle perfectly.

Get informed

The Florida Public Interest Research Group Education Fund provides a free downloadable booklet explaining your rights and responsibilities as a renter. Knowing your rights in advance will help you make informed decisions and avoid being taken advantage of by an unscrupulous or ill-informed landlord.

Find out which Orlando neighborhoods are best suited to your lifestyle. Orlando is a large, sprawling city with several suburbs. Choosing a neighborhood close to your workplace may seem like the most practical option, but once you know the different amenities each neighborhood has to offer, a short commute may become less of a priority. For example, if you enjoy being in the center of the action, close to shopping and restaurants, Baldwin Park, Windermere and College Park are neighborhoods where you might enjoy living. If a family-oriented neighborhood is more to your liking, consider Lake Nona or the suburb city, Lake Mary.

To get a real feel for a neighborhood, get out of the car and walk around it. Visit the parks, grocery store and corner cafe so you can decide if you would feel safe and comfortable living in the area. The same advice applies once you’ve found an apartment complex you’re interested in. Look for signs of wear and tear that could indicate maintenance neglect. If possible talk to the neighbors and try to find out:

• Whether the complex is quiet
• How quickly the landlord handles repairs
• How the landlord responds to complaints
• If the residents seem friendly
• If they would recommend the complex to friends

Strike a bargain

To get the best deal on Orlando apartments, take an honest assessment of your needs. Do you really require two bedrooms, or would a spacious one-bedroom and a pull-out couch in the living room work? An apartment complex that provides amenities like on-site laundry service, a 24-hour gym, housekeeping and garage parking can be economical if you actually need those services and would pay separately for them if they weren’t provided. If you don’t currently use a gym or pay a housekeeper, then an apartment with a lower price and fewer frills is probably a better fit for you.

You might also be able to negotiate the monthly costs if you’re bold enough to ask for discounts. Pet deposits or fees for extra parking are sometimes negotiable, but don’t wait for the landlord to make the first move. Though the price of rent is usually firm, agreeing to a longer lease may result in a small decrease.

Though renter’s needs vary, an apartment that provides a safe, comfortable home base from which you can experience the city is ideal. Your chances of finding the ideal apartment increase if you take the time to become informed about the rental laws and neighborhoods in Orlando. Once you’ve settled in, it’s time to start enjoying the special events and activities your new home town has to offer.

Renting an Apartment – How To Video

About the Author

Grady Winston is an avid internet entrepreneur and copywriter from Indianapolis. He has worked in the fields of technology, business, marketing, and advertising implementing multiple creative projects and solutions for a range of clients.

© Orlando Local Guide (Rosen Shingle Creek)

On Easter Sunday, the big hotels on International Drive bring out their best buffets that are served throughout the day with some of the locations having other Easter activities as well. This is our guide to Easter Brunches on International Drive in Orlando. We will list the buffets in the order of most expensive to least expensive below:

The Peabody

The Peabody will be having their Easter Brunch at the Capriccio Grill from 11 AM until 3 PM. The cost for the buffet is $70 Adults; $25 Children 6-12, 5 and under free. Reservations are  Required.  RSVP 407.345.4570. Click here to see a list of menu items.

Rosen Shingle Creek

The Rosen Shingle Creek will have their buffet starting at 11:30 AM until 7 PM at Café Osceola. The cost for the buffet is $64.95 for adults; $29.95 for children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and under. Florida residents take 25% off. RSVP (407) 996-6338. Click here to see a list of menu items for the buffet. See our video at the end of this article of the Christmas Buffet at Shingle Creek to get an idea of what the Easter Buffet will be like. Valet parking is complimentary.

Rosen Centre

The Rosen Centre will have their Easter buffet from 11 AM until 5 PM at Café Gauguin. The cost for the buffet is $39.95 for adults; $16.95 for children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and under. Price does not include tax and gratuity. Valet parking is complimentary. Click here to see a list of menu items at the buffet. RSVP at (407) 996-9840.

Rosen Plaza

The Rosen Plaza with have their Easter buffet at the Rosen Plaza Grand Ballroom starting from 11 AM and lasting until 4 PM.  The cost for the buffet is $39.95 for adults; $15.95 for children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and under. Price does not include tax and gratuity. Valet parking is complimentary. Click here to see a list of menu items at the buffet. RSVP at (407) 996-9840.

The Westin Orlando

The Westin Orlando will have their Easter Brunch from 11 AM until 1 PM at Fiorellas Cucina Toscana from 11 AM until 1 PM. The price of the buffet is $39.95 for adults; $14.95 for children 3-12 years old and under 3 years old is free. There will be two seating’s at 11 AM and 1 PM with an Easter Egg Hunt for kids at 12:30 PM.

The Castle

The Castle Hotel will have their Easter Brunch in the Grand Ballroom from 10 AM until 2 PM. The price of the buffet is $34 adults, $22 children ages 4-12. RSVP at 407-345-1511. The Easter Bunny will make an appearance at the brunch and there will also be holiday-themed games for children. Click here to see the menu.

Hilton Orlando

The Hilton Orlando will be serving breakfast from 6:30 AM until 11 AM and brunch will be served at the Bistro from 11am – 4pm. The price of the buffet is $30 for Adults, Children 12 and under are $12.50, children under 3 are free. The Easter Bunny will be visiting with guests from 10 am – 1 pm. Click here to see a list of menu items for the buffet. Call 407-313-4300 for more information.

Shingle Creek Brunch Buffet Video

Below is some video that we shot at Shingle Creek’s Christmas Buffet to give you an idea of what to expect on Easter:

Click here to read more stories about celebrating Easter in Orlando and click here for more information about International Drive.

Easter Brunch on I-Drive Map

View International Drive Hotels with Holiday Buffets in a larger map

© Orlando Local Guide

Some may think that you need to go to one of the Florida coasts to experience the beach while visiting Orlando but those people have never been to Saint Cloud, Florida (see picture above) or Moss Park in Orlando. If you want to make the 45-60 minute drive to the east coast, you can check out our guide to Cocoa Beach here, but there are several great beach spots and natural springs around the city of Orlando to take in without the need to drive very far in your car. This is our guide to the best Inland Beaches and Natural Springs in Orlando.

Best Inland Beaches in Orlando

The best inland beach in Orlando is on the shores of East Lake Tohopekaliga in Saint Cloud,  Florida (see picture above). This sandy white beach has as nice of sand as any of the other beaches on the coast and has a splash pad park off to the side for your children to splash around in (see video below). There is also a Crabby Bill’s Seafood restaurant at the marina that is a very popular seafood restaurant chain out of Tampa, with the St Cloud restaurant being the only location in Orlando. A great time to visit the beach in St Cloud is on the 4th of July when you can lay on the beach and listen to live music and watch fireworks that you can read about here.

Although St Cloud may sound like a great distance for many locals in Orlando, the beach is about a 10 to 15 minute drive from Lake Nona High School and the Medical City in east Orlando down Narcoossee Road and we definitely recommend checking it out if you have never been.

St Cloud Lakefront Park and Beach Video

Moss Park Public Beach

Staying on the east side of town, our second recommendation for inland beaches in Orlando is at Moss Park in the Lake Nona area. Long before Lake Nona was a sprawling golf community and medical city, Moss Park has been a fixture in Orange County along the shores of Lake Mary Jane. At Moss Park Beach, you can play volleyball and swim in the lake. Picnic areas and a very nice playground is located at Moss Park as well. There is a small admission price for each car that is $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people and $5 per vehicle for 3-8 people.

Moss Park Public Beach Video

Winter Park Public Beach

The closest beach to Downtown Orlando is in Winter Park, Florida on the campus of Rollins College. The beach is located on Lake Virginia at Dinky Dock Park and is pointed out during the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.

Winter Park Public Beach Video

Clementine’s Beach at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground

We know that Disney World has two very popular water parks in Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach and also some sandy beaches at some of the deluxe resorts on property but Clementine’s Beach at the Fort Wilderness Campground is the only beach that feels like a real beach.

A favorite for many travelers visiting the beach at Fort Wilderness is swinging on the hammocks and watching the free Electrical Water Pageant show from the shore at night. With swimming no longer allowed at Clementine’s Beach and the River Country Water Park official closed forever, Disney needs to follow Saint Cloud’s lead and put in one of those splash parks that they have implemented at their Caribbean Beach and Grand Floridian Resorts for the kids to play and splash around in while mom and dad relax.

Contact Fort Wilderness at 407-824-2900 for more information.

Clementine’s Beach Video

Natural Lazy River and Swimming at Kelly Park in Apopka

If swimming or inner-tubing down a natural lazy river is more your thing than lounging around on a beach, than Rock Springs at Kelly Park in Apopka may have what you are looking for. Guests can get an inner-tube at Kelly Park and float mildly down Rock Springs. Thereis also a place for swimming and snorkeling in the natural and very clear spring. Admission is $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people and $5 per vehicle for 3-8 people.

Kelly Park Video

Snorkeling and Swimming at Wekiwa Springs State Park

The famous springs and park in Apopka, Florida is pronounced and spelled Wekiwa whereas the river that many come to canoe or kayak down is called Wekiva. Either way, swimming and snorkeling at Wekiwa Springs State Park and renting a canoe to go down the Wekiva River is a very popular thing to do for locals and tourist during spring break and the summer season. Along the Wekiva River, you will pass by Florida’s natural settings and wildlife along with the very-lively Wekiva Island that you can read about here. Admission for the park is $4.00 for a single occupant or $6 for vehicles with 2 to 8 people.

Wekiwa Springs State Park Video

Fleet Peeples Dog Park in Winter Park

Our final entry is neither a beach or a natural spring for people but rather the best beach (if you want to call it that) for your dog to run around unleashed with other dogs at Lake Baldwin where Winter Park meets Baldwin Park. Fleet Peeples Park is the only place that we know about in Orlando that combines the fun of a dog park in a setting where fido can go play in the water with other dogs (see video below).

Fleet Peeples Park Video

Click here for more information about splash parks around Orlando and click here for information about viewing Manatees at Blue Spring State Park.

Orlando Inland Beaches and Natural Springs Map

View Orlando Inland Beaches and Natural Springs in a larger map

© Orlando Local Guide

When thinking about spending spring break in Orlando and Central Florida, most college students are thinking about the beaches throughout the state of Florida, the theme parks, or the water parks. However, there is a little party oasis along the Wekiva River called Wekiva Island that reaches capacity by 10 AM on many days and looks like a college football tailgate on game day with drinking, bbq, and music. Wekiva Island is the ultimate college spring break spot in Orlando year-round.

Wekiva Island

© Orlando Local Guide

Wekiva Island is a little bit hidden in Longwood, Florida that is nearby the popular and better well-known Wekiwa Springs State Park. If you are looking for a more family-friendly spring break destination, the park is a better choice and also reaches capacity frequently during the morning and has canoe rentals that will have you boating down the Wekiva River and past Wekiva Island.

Wekiva Island Private Cabana’s

Wekiva Island is the place for the party crowd that wants to have a few drinks at the Tooting Otter Bar. However, the place to be is along the river in one of the cabana tents that your party can reserve from anywhere between $75 and $250. At the private cabanas, barbecue grills and covered seating is available. Each cabana is 12′x11′ in size and comes with a couch, rocking chair, and two Adirondack chairs. Cabinets allow you to store and secure what you have brought for the day (see video below).

The cabana tents have become so popular that you have to wonder if the water parks at Disney World and SeaWorld got the idea for their own VIP cabana’s from the success that  Wekiva Island has had with them.

Our recommendation is to get a group of friends or hold a family reunion and get a cabana at Wekiva Island and purchase one of these mega inner-tube floats at Costco to put in the river:

© Orlando Local Guide

Wekiva Island Activities

In addition to the cabana’s and the bar, Wekiva Island has volleyball courts, horseshoes, canoe rentals, kayak rentals, fishing, boating, and swimming in the Wekiva River. Wekiva Island is located at 1014 Miami Springs Road; Longwood, FL 32779. Hours are 8 AM until 7 PM Sunday through Thursday and 8 AM until 11 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Click here to visit the official website of Wekiva Island for more information about their current rates and options and click here for more information about spending spring break in Orlando.

Wekiva Island Video

Wekiva Island Map

View Larger Map

© Track Shack (Youtube)

The Winter Park Road Race 10k (6.2 miles) is the final event of the Track Shack Running Series that takes place in Winter Park each spring and will be held on Saturday, March 23rd, 2013 at 7:30 AM with a 2 mile warm-up race held prior at 7 am. If you are visiting Orlando for spring break, this is a great way to kick it off with a healthy start.

Winter Park Road Race 10k & 2 Mile

The Winter Park Road Race course begins in Central Park as the hub for the pre and post-race area and then takes you through the northeast side of Winter Park down Alabama Drive towards Lake Maitland and around Kraft Azalea Gardens. The course then winds around the Winter Park Golf Course. See the entire course below:

© Track Shack

Winter Park Road Race 10k & 2 Mile

The 2013 schedule is:

7:00 am: 2 Mile run
7:30 am: 10k (6.2 mi.) run
8:15 am: 2 Mile Awards
9:00 am: 10k Awards
9:15 am: Healthy 100 Kids’ Run
10:00 am: Track Shack Running Series Awards Ceremony

Click here to visit the official website for more information about the event.

2013 Winter Park Road Race 10k & 2 Mile Promotional Video

2013 Winter Park Road Race 10k & 2 Mile Map

View Larger Map

Central Florida Home & Garden Show

The 2013 Central Florida Home & Garden Show features more than 250 Do-it-Yourself, landscaping, and home improvement experts offering a range of new products and services, including more than 100 exhibitors that are new to the market or making their Central Florida Home & Garden Show debut.

Did someone say that the housing market is back in Florida?

Local Chefs in the Spotlight

Orlando residents will be interested in seeing some of the top chefs in the area for the 2013 show including James and Julie Petrakis of the The Ravenous Pig, Kevin Spencer of Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops at Hilton Orlando, Greg Picard, executive chef for Orlando World Center Marriott, Dun Chau of Sushi House Orlando, Danny Otera of Teak Neighborhood Grill, and chefs and experts from Whole Foods Market, New York Dinger and World of Beer.

The chefs will be doing cooking demonstrations and providing samples on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage.

There are also a lot of other Home and Garden celebrities and exhibitions going on throughout the weekend that you can find out about on the official website here.

Celebrity Bird Houses

In addition to all of the events going on, there is also a silent auction that will be taking place for the Children’s Home Society that will feature celebrity-painted bird houses by Chris Kirkpatrick, Mayor Teresa Jacobs, Scott Maxwell, Vanessa Welch, and more. See some of the pictures of the bird houses below:

Central Florida Home & Garden Show Times and Prices

Show hours are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m, and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Tickets are available at the door, and are $10 for adults 13+, $5 for seniors (60+, at the box office only), $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages five and under.

Click here to visit the official website for more information and to purchase tickets.

Other Orlando Home and Garden Shows

There are three other Home and Garden Shows at the convention center throughout the year with the Orlando Home Show, a sister show to the Central Florida Home and Garden Show, that is held in October and the Orlando Home and Garden Show (that has no relation to the Central Florida Home and Garden Show) that is held in September and January.

Also, check out the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival going on at Disney World during the same time as the Central Florida Home and Garden Show.

Central Florida Home and Garden Show Promotional Video

Orange County Convention Center Map

View Larger Map

Stores coming soon to the Mall at Millenia in 2013 include H&M, Sephora, Splendid, Buckle, Papyrus, Hublot, Omega Boutique, Prada, Diesel, 7 For All Mankind, Kate Spade, Saint Laurent (YSL), and Donald J Pliner.

Stores in the process of remodeling or moving to a new location include Forever 21, Express, Guess, The Walking Company, Sony, & Michael Kors.

In addition to the new stores, a Capital Grille will be taking over the space formally held by McCormick & Schmick’s and new fountains have been inserted on the perimeter of the main hub (see video below).

Outside of the main mall, The Container Store will also be opening in 2013.

Click here to see all of our stories about the Mall at Millenia.

See our photo gallery of the new stores at the mall below:

New Fountains at Millenia

Mall at Millenia Map

View Larger Map

One of over 250 wish-granting organizations worldwide coordinates transportation to Central Florida, while Give Kids The World provides accommodations at its resort, meals for a week-long vacation, and donated admission tickets to local attractions including Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando Resort.

The village is operated by a small professional staff that is augmented by thousands of volunteers each year. Roughly 1200 volunteer shifts are completed each week.

Ye Olde Spring Country Faire

On March 23rd, 2013, the bunny characters from Give Kids the World will be available for pictures at the 16th annual Ye Olde Spring Country Faire (see flyer below) at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores from 10 am until 3 pm near Downtown Disney and the Orlando Premium Outlets on Vineland Avenue.

The free event will also feature clowns, face painting, a sidewalk sale, games, activities, prizes, and more. The event takes place just before Easter so that you can get your child’s picture with two Easter Bunnies (see picture above).

Terry Lynn Morris, Director of Marketing for Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, says that they have visitors who plan their vacations around this event just to have their family photo taken with the rabbits named Mayor Clayton and Ms. Merry. “Local families tell us time and time again that they grew up attending this event and would not miss it ‘for the world.’”

Donations from photo’s with the bunnies benefit Give Kids the World Village. Click here to visit the website for Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores for more information about the event and click here for more things to do around Orlando to celebrate Easter including Easter Egg Hunts and Easter Bunny photo opportunities.

Ye Olde Spring Country Faire Flyer

Guide to Spending Easter in Orlando

• Easter Bunny at Millenia on March 9th, 2013
• Easter Egg Hunt at Winter Park Village on March 23rd, 2013
• Ye Olde Spring Country Faire on March 23rd, 2013
• Easter Egg Hunt in Winter Park on March 30th, 2013
• Easter Egg Hunt in Longwood on March 30th, 2013
• Easter Church Services in Downtown Orlando
• Easter Day Brunch in Winter Park

Give Kids the World Promotional Video

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

View Larger Map

© Orlando Local Guide

There is no way around it – Orlando is hot during the summer! To survive the season, water is a must for summer plans. Each of the big three amusement parks in Orlando have water parks that are a great way to cool off in the summer:

Disney World Water Parks

Mickey Mouse boasts two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.  The later is much larger, but usually also has a larger crowd. Typhoon Lagoon is a bit more relaxing in its tropical-themed decor.  Two benefits this park has over its sister location is the Shark Reek that allows guest to snorkel with baby nurse sharks and wave pool that offers more intense thrills.

Aquatica

As the newest of Orlando water parks, Aquatica has received a lot of attention for its innovative rides including a relaxing lagoon that provides up-close views of tropical marine life, dolphins jumping over a water slide as riders descend down it and a lazy river with aspects of a white water rafting trip.

Wet ‘n Wild

Just as it is known for the best extreme rides among amusement parks in Orlando, Universal also has the most adventurous water park with Wet ‘n Wild .  Among the most notable are the Black Hole (as implied it is a ride in the dark), Disco H2O that spins riders round and round repeatedly in a funnel,plus seven (7) multi-person rides.

All the parks offer great kids areas, family rides, large wave pools and snack bars. Annual Pass tickets for Disney World and Wet ‘n Wild require proof of Florida Residency:

In addition to the rates mentioned above, Aquatica and Wet ‘n Wild offer additional discounts if you purchase your tickets online or if you are a Florida Resident. Additional discounts can be obtained by combining a water park pass with theme park admission or buying an annual pass for more than one year.

Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon

Aquatica

Wet ‘n Wild

Orlando Water Parks Map

View Orlando Water Parks in a larger map

Winter Park Village Easter Egg Hunt

Brio Bunny Brunch

The day will start off on Saturday with a Bunny Brunch at Brio Tuscan Grille at Winter Park Village from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM that will include picture opportunities with the Easter Bunny, Easter Eggs filled with prizes, a raffle, and breakfast. Different from the 2012 event, the breakfast will be plated with several options as opposed to a buffet-style as it was last year.

© Orlando Local Guide

Easter Events

Music and balloons greeted participants for the 2012 event as children can do Easter crafts and visit with the Easter Bunny while listening to music. Several of the merchants around Winter Park Village will have their stores open for the Easter Egg Hunt where clues give hints on where to find the Easter Eggs. The event makes for a very nice morning to spend with your children.

Guide to Spending Easter in Orlando

• Easter Bunny at Millenia on March 9th, 2013
• Easter Egg Hunt at Winter Park Village on March 23rd, 2013
• Ye Olde Spring Country Faire on March 23rd, 2013
• Easter Egg Hunt in Winter Park on March 30th, 2013
• Easter Egg Hunt in Longwood on March 30th, 2013
• Easter Church Services in Downtown Orlando
• Easter Day Brunch in Winter Park

Click here for more information about Winter Park Village from Orlando Local Guide.

2013 Winter Park Village Bunny Hop Easter Event Video

2012 Winter Park Village Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch Video

Winter Park Village Map

View Larger Map

© Orlando Local Guide

Each year during the springtime on the Sunday that daylight savings time begins, the Orlando Philharmonic puts on a free concert at the Central Park Amphitheater in Winter Park that they call the Spring Pops Concert. The 2013 event will be held on Sunday, March 10th at 7 PM.

Orlando Philharmonic Spring Pops Concert

The 2013 concert will have a Chicago The Musical sound to it being titled “All That Jazz” that will be lead by conductor Paul Hostetter with songs including “S’Wonderful”, ‘Gimme, Gimme’ and “All That Jazz” from the musicals of West Side Story, Guys and Dolls and Chicago.

Hostetter is the conductor and artistic advisor for the acclaimed Sequitur Ensemble, the principal conductor of the New York Concerti Sinfonietta, and the founder and artistic adviser to the Music Mondays chamber series in New York City. He has served as associate conductor for the Broadway productions of Candide and The Gershwins’ Fascinating Rhythm, and appears as a guest conductor at opera companies and orchestras across the United States.

Daylight Savings

The Sping Pops concert is a great way to enjoy the extra hour of sunshine as the concert begins during daylight and continues to play through sunset and into the night.

Click here to visit the Orlando Philharmonic website for more information and click here to view the event listing on the City of Winter Park website.

Click here to view more events around Orlando that features an orchestra.

Orlando Philharmonic Winter Park Spring Pops Concert

Winter Park Map

Taste of Windermere

Participating restaurants for the 2013 Taste of Windermere event include Dragonfly, Il Mulino Trattoria, Ocean Prime, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Ravenous Pig, Cask & Larder, Taverna Opa, Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, Fresco Cucina Italiana, Maggiano’s Little Italy, MVPs Clubhouse & Restaurant, Red Eye Bar & Grill, Season’s 52, and T-REX.

Desserts will be provided by Cake in the City, Dixie Cream Cafe, and The Bohemian Baker.

Fine Wines will be provided by Cavanaugh’s Fine Wines and beer will be provided by World of Beer.

Taste of Windermere Tickets

Tickets are $55 in advance or $60 at the door and can be purchased here.

The event is presented by the Central Florida Women’s League with proceeds from the event benefit Central Florida charities and scholarships for local deserving students.

The Pines of Windermere is located at 3409 Maguire Road, Windermere, FL.

Click here to find out about other great food events going on around Orlando from Orlando Local Guide.

The Pines of Windermere Map

View Larger Map

Orlando Blues B-Q

One of the headliners at the 2013 event will be Robert Randolph and the Family Band who will be featured along with Beautiful Bobby Blackmon and RJ Harmon & Company. Orlando Blues B-Q is presented by the city of Orlando and Star 94.5 FM.

Barbecue for the 2013 event will be available for purchase from Bubbalous Boadacious BBQ, Gilbert’s Rib King BBQ, Johnny’s Ribs and Wings, Kinfolk’s Vending, and Serena’s Mobile Food Services, Inc.

SeaWorld also has their Bands, Brew, and BBQ event going on March 9th and 10th, 2013 along with several other weekends.

Click Here to view several videos that we recorded from the 2012 event in our forums and click here to visit the official website for the event.

Orlando Blues B-Q 2013 Promotional Video

Orlando Blues B-Q

Orange and Livingston Map

View Larger Map

Harlem Shake UCF Edition

Florida Gators Harlem Shake

Harlem Shake Spirit Splash

Florida Gators Chomp Edition

Florida State Harlem Shake

Orlando Magic Harlem Shake

Orlando Weekly Harlem Shake

Former Magic Player and DJ Mickael Pietrus doing the real Harlem Shake

Cowboys Orlando Harlem Shake (Country)

Harlem Shake UCF Theatre