Visit Orlando Blog -  Arts, History & Culture

Unique Orlando Gifts and Experiences for Valentine’s Day

It's already February! That means there are only a few days before Valentine's Day. Do you know what you're doing for that special someone? If your automatic answer is the standard dinner-chocolates-and-flowers, consider trying something a little more memorable. Whether you've been dating for a while, just starting, or even if you're planning on asking someone out for the first time, Orlando has a variety of unparalleled Valentine's activities in multiple price ranges to make sure your sweetheart appreciates how much you care and admires your original, romantic flair. Shhh...we won't tell where you got the ideas!

Orlando Balloon Rides
What could be more romantic than a hot air balloon ride at dawn over beautiful Central Florida? Take your special someone on a dream date in the clouds, with a champagne toast and buffet breakfast included! No one will forget a Valentine's Day that starts like this. Tickets are $175 per person.

SeaWorld's Beluga Interaction
If you're lucky enough to live in Orlando, you might take advantage of the unique gift options offered only at theme parks like SeaWorld, where you can enter the water and interact with beautiful and friendly beluga whales. Share an unforgettable experience with the one you love in this rare opportunity. Prices start at $99 per person after park admission.

Universal VIP Experience
You've never seen Universal Orlando like this before, and the VIP treatment won't be lost on your partner. Feel like a couple of A-listers on this guided tour through one of Orlando's top parks, including free refreshments, valet parking, and Universal Express to skip waiting in lines! Choose between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, or upgrade to tour both with star-treatment.

Walt Disney World's Wild Africa Trek
Give the ultimate gift of an unforgettable adventure, perfect for animal lovers or would-be safari-ers. Journey just above Nile Crocodiles across a suspended rope bridge, get a close-up look at massive hippos, and enjoy the stunning views of giraffes and rhinos from an exclusive safari camp. Create a unique memory with your date as you view wild African creatures in their native habitat, and relive the adventure at home with a CD of photos taken along the way, included with the tour. Prices start at $189 per person plus park admission.

Mount Dora Art Festival
If you want to find a one-of-a-kind gift guaranteed to wow your significant other, you could take a little trip to the free Mount Dora Art Festival this weekend, Feb. 4 - 5. From beautiful handmade jewelry to paintings, pottery, and more, there's sure to be something perfect and completely out of the ordinary, often at prices cheaper than typical store-bought gifts. If you're really stealthy, you could bring your lover along and make a relaxing day out of it, watch to see what things he or she likes, and when the kettle corn draws your date's attention, make an excuse to go back and purchase the gift they picked out. It doesn't get any easier to shop for someone!

Paddleboard Yoga
A unique experience in Orlando doesn't have to break the bank; take your date for a Paddleboard Yoga session on Orlando's many lovely lakes. A fun and relaxing adventure, Paddleboard Yoga is perfect for nature-lovers, health-nuts, and adventure-seekers alike. Prices start at just $25 per person.

Painting with a Twist
Is your honey creative or artsy? If so, this might be the perfect place for a Valentine's Day date. Bring a bottle of wine and create a delightful work of art with the help and guidance of professional artists. Canvases, brushes and paint are provided- all you have to do is bring your beau or lady. Valentine's Day classes for couples are $45 per seat- and you get to take home your paintings!

Texas de Brazil
This isn't your typical Valentine's Day dinner. Texas de Brazil offers an incredible dining experience unlike any other, perfect for a romantic and remarkable evening. Browse a wide selection of fresh salads and appetizers, then turn your table card to green when you're ready for the main course! Servers shave various melt-in-your-mouth meats off long skewers right onto your plate, as often and as much as you want. Come hungry and guarantee a good time for yourself and your sweetie. Regular dinner prices start at  $46.99 per person.

Truffles and Trifles Cooking Classes
Make a date out of preparing the meal as well as eating it! Truffles and Trifles offers several evenings of Valentine's Day themed cooking classes that will ensure a delicious meal and a fun, romantic night together. Prices start at $140 per couple.

Upcoming Festivals in Orlando

It may be the middle of winter for most of the States, but here in Orlando, highs are in the 70's and there's a nice breeze. Sunshine is Nature's cure for those Winter Blues. Spend a little time outside in Orlando's paradise. From live concerts to crafts, culture, art, and food, take advantage of the weather at any of these fun festivals through February:

Yeehaw Junction Bluegrass Festival, Jan. 26 - 28
It's hard to resist a Bluegrass jig, and next week Central Florida will have plenty of them them. This four-day event, held at Yeehaw Junction, brings together some of the biggest names in pickin' and foot-stompin' music. See lively performances by Rhyme ‘N' Reason, Rhonda Vincent &The Rage, and more. The music fest also features arts, crafts and carnival fare. Admission: Thursday $20, Friday $25, Saturday $30, $75 weekend at gate; children ages 12 and younger free with paid adult ticket. Camping prices are $100 for electric sites and $25 for dry sites. 
  

ArtsFest 2012, Feb. 1 - 29
Get ready for the Art and Culture event of the year! ArtsFest is a cultural sampling for every taste and pocketbook. From moving ballet and theater performances to cutting-edge films and art exhibits, this festival showcases Central Florida's best in arts and culture. Attend the Starlite Film Festival Feb. 3, check out the unforgettable rock n' roll experience DRIP presented on various days in February, but your tickets for the Sleeping Beauty Ballet on the 5^th, and of course, you won't want to miss the The Great Duck Derby Feb.18^th.  Special performances and free admission to select museums like the Waterhouse Residence or the City Arts Factory will be offered throughout the Festival. Presented by Bank of America, ArtsFest is held in venues across Central Florida's four-county area and kicks-off United Arts' annual fundraising campaign. Admission: Free.  

Mount Dora Arts Festival, Feb. 4 - 5
Enjoy a relaxing walk through the charming hillside town of Mount Dora as you take in the wide variety of more than 300 juried artists mixed with live entertainment, children's activities and food. Celebrating its 37^th anniversary, the festival displays works of Artists competing for awards in painting, printmaking, photography, jewelry, sculpture and numerous other categories. Admission: Free.

Children's Art & History Festival, Feb. 11
Held at the Maitland Art Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., the event exposes kids and families to the visual and performing arts. Presented in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, activities include hands-on art, open studio demonstrations, interactive puppet theater, children's art exhibits, scavenger hunts and face painting. Admission: Suggested donation of $4 for adults and children are free.    
                                            

77^th Annual Bach Festival, Feb. 17 - March 4
Like a little music to unwind with this month? Book yourself some "You Time" or snuggle up with your sweetie while you enjoy the various performances at this event. Year after year, this festival brings world-class talent to the Rollins College campus in Winter Park. Festival highlights include performances featuring the works of J.S. Bach and other great composers by the highly acclaimed Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra.  Admission: Prices vary by performance and series.  

This Week in Orlando: Music and Motorcycle Fun for Everyone!

Enjoy Orlando's wonderful outdoor weather at one of several unique outdoor festivals and events this upcoming week featuring everything from motorcycle rides to big band music. Here's what's happening in Orlando Jan. 16 - 22:

The Real Music Concert Series at Busch Gardens, Jan. 18 - Mar. 24
From sock-hop era idols to swingin' big bands, this concert series at Busch Gardens has something for everyone! This week be sure to catch The Terry Myers Orchestra with The Swing Sisters performing Wednesday to Saturday at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. in the Stanleyville Theater. Admission is included with regular park ticket.

66^th Annual Camellia Show & Festival, Jan. 21
Witness for yourself why January in Central Florida is camellia season at the Camellia Show & Festival. Taking place from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Mead Botanical Garden and featuring the beauty of thousands of camellia flower blooms, this is the perfect event to enjoy the beauty of Orlando in January. The festival includes camellia plants for sale, a special 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. "Camellia 101 Class" (RSVP for classes by emailing lkmccoy@cfl.rr.com) and 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. tours of the Mead Botanical Garden with expert gardeners available to answer any winter gardening questions. Admission to the festival is free.

Zora Neale Hurston Festival, Jan. 21 - 29
This inspiring festival highlights the life and works of one of America's most celebrated collectors and interpreters of Southern rural African-American culture through theatrical performances, educational programs and a juried art show. The nine-day extravaganza takes place in various locations throughout Orlando and Eatonville, the nation's oldest incorporated Africa-American municipality. Admission to the festival is free, performance prices vary.

Harley Davidson Motorcycle Ride, Jan. 22
Orlando Harley-Davidson is hosting a pair of special events to benefit the Tri-County Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse. From 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., a police-escorted bike convoy will travel on I-4 from Downtown Disney West Side to the Orlando Harley-Davidson I-4 Historic Factory Dealership. Ride registration will be from 10 - 11:30 a.m. in the Downtown Disney West Side parking lot N and requires a $10 donation per rider, and $5 donation per passenger. Immediately following the bike convoy will be an after-party from 12 - 3 p.m. The party will feature free entertainment and food, including live music by The Pendletones and a whole lot of rider-related activities. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Orlando Named Top Destination in 2012

Orlando is one of the world's top destinations for 2012, according to an article in CNN Travel. Based on recommendations from four of the world's top travel experts, the undiscovered Orlando and the vibrant food scene is a must-see. Robert Reid, U.S. Travel Editor for Lonely Planet, urged tourists to discover Orlando's popular lakes, museums and scenic neighborhoods, like the hidden, bohemian "Milk District."

Only in Orlando – 10 Unique Gift Options this Holiday Season

Orlando is the perfect place to find that "wow" factor gift this holiday season. From once-in-a-lifetime special experiences to unforgettable gifts you can't find anywhere else, Orlando has a wide array of unique ideas to make this holiday season truly unforgettable.

1. The Walt Disney World Resort fan will love the new Disney Parks Memory Challenge (retail $24.95). The game incorporates a new twist on the world's most popular matching game and features images of classic and favorite Disney attractions. Plus, you can add your own Disney vacation photos using exclusive cards. For Disney pin collectors, special holiday versions are available, including the Disney Express - Boxed Set (released Dec. 16).

2. For the little wizard in your family, an authentic wand from Universal Orlando Resort's Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the way to go. If you won't be visiting Orlando during the holidays, you can still order a wand online (retail $29.99), as well as other specialty items such as a four-pack of Chocolate Frogs (retail $49.95) or a Gyrffindor Robe (retail $99.95). The wands are packaged with an authentic Ollivanders Wand Shop box, which isn't available in regular retail stores.  

3. Gatorland features a large gift shop with items appealing to the gator-lover on your gift list. Pair a bottle of ‘Swamp Juice' from Aspirations winery with a quirky gator wine glass for a memorable holiday gift (retail $15.99 Swamp Juice; $28.99 wine glass).

4. Florida is synonymous with fresh citrus and in particular, for its oranges. Showcase of Citrus lets you hand-pick oranges and other fresh citrus right from the grove, which makes the perfect gift for health-conscious loved ones on your gift list ($10 for quarter bushel; $20 for half bushel).

5. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art features exclusive merchandise derived from the works of master designer Louis Comfort Tiffany-including jewelry, stained-glass panels, glass bowls, and vases-and a wide range of items inspired by other artists represented in the Museum's collection. Popular gift items include Lundberg Studios glass perfume bottles and vases (retail $195-$310).

6. The Orange County Regional History Center specializes in unique and nostalgic gifts reflecting the cultural history of Central Florida. The store offers rare vintage photographs, quirky Florida souvenirs, delicious Florida treats and classic toys, books, and other great gift items, such as Florida-made wine from local Lakeridge Winery (retail $19.99) and local honey (retail $4.99).

7. The Kessler Collection Signature Grand Bohemian Gallery, located at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in downtown Orlando, showcases rare works of art by local, regional and internationally recognized artists designed to inspire the collector in every visitor. From contemporary paintings and glass art to intricate jewelry and ceramics, the Grand Bohemian Gallery represents a wide array of talent, often hosting exhibitions and exclusive artist receptions. For the jewelry lover, consider the Emin Taos full moon series (retail $275).

Special Experiences

8. Ideal for the animal lover, Discovery Cove's Trainer for a Day Program (price ranges from $398-518), takes lucky gift recipients on an up-close journey alongside animal experts to interact with bottlenose dolphins, rays and other magical sea creatures. Also includes a 14-day unlimited pass to SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Aquatica - SeaWorld's Waterpark.

9. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a gift that's out of this world with the Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) Half-Day Program (retail $145). Adventurers prepare for the rigors of space by participating in a range of interactive, anti-gravity activities and even meet a NASA astronaut.

10. For the adrenaline junkie, consider purchasing a gift card for the Orlando Adventure Collection. With the card, they will be able to create a customized adventure package, choosing from activities such as skydiving, hot air balloon riding, ziplining, airboat riding, helicopter riding and ATVs, just to name a few. Better yet, 30% of the proceeds will benefit the company's conservation effort.

This Week in Orlando: Pro Golfers, College Football and Snow!

From football and golf to holiday decorations and snow, this week in Orlando has a little bit of everything. Check out what's happening Nov. 14 - 20:

Leu's Holiday House, Nov. 14 - Jan. 4
At Harry P. Leu Gardens, they don't take decking the halls lightly. This holiday season, visitors to the Leu House Museum will find 11 holiday-themed rooms transformed with amazing dioramas created by designers from Seminole State College of Florida Interior Design and Ron's Miniature Shop & Museum. Thirty minute tours are given on the hour and half-hour from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. daily.

2011 LPGA Tour CME Group Titleholders, Nov. 17 - 20
The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress hosts the 2011 LPGA Tour season-finale of the CME Group Titleholders. Watch as 66 players who qualified as the top-three performers in each of the 22 LPGA tournaments this year compete for a total purse of $1.5 million.

ICE! Shrek the Halls, Nov. 16 - Jan, 2
What do you get when you combine Shrek, Po the Panda and two-million pounds of ice? It's a winter wonderland filled with some of DreamWorks' most loved animated characters at the Gaylord Palms with ICE! Shrek the Halls and the all-new Kung Fu Panda SNOW. See colorful ice sculptures carved entirely out of ice, crawl through underground snow tunnels and slide down a 64-foot (19.5 meter) pagoda slide. Individual or special-package deal attraction tickets are available.

Florida Classic, Nov. 19
Are you ready for some football? It is Florida Classic week in Orlando, with events ranging from Battle of the Bands at Amway Center and an official after-party at House of Blues. The Florida Classic takes over the Citrus Bowl on Saturday with kick-off at 2:30 p.m.  As the largest football game between two historically Black Colleges in America surpassing the Bayou Classic as the top attended game in NCAA Division I-AA, proceeds from The Florida Classic and all official ancillary events support the mission of Bethune-Cookman University and Florida A&M University to provide educational opportunities through scholarships for all students.

This Week in Orlando: Major Music Festival, Parades & Holiday Celebrations

From a brand new music festival to parades and holiday kick-off events, Orlando is rockin' with exciting events Nov. 7 - 13:

Orlando Calling, Nov. 12 - 13
Featuring four stages, this new music fest will present a diverse line-up of American music genres, including blues, country, rock, indie, alternative, folk and R&B. Headliners include The Killers, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band and Kid Rock. The festival will also include performances by emerging talent from the Central Florida area. Admission starts at $93.25 for a one-day pass and $170.50 for both days.

A Celebration of the Harry Potter Films, Nov. 11 - 13
A dream come true for all Harry Potter fans, Universal Studios Orlando is hosting an exclusive Harry Potter movie celebration that includes screenings of all eight films, autograph signings and Q&A sessions with the cast. Celebrate favorite memories and stories of Harry potter with filmmakers, cast members and fellow fans during this three-day special event.

Festival of Trees, Nov. 11 - 20
Experience Central Florida's own winter wonderland during Festival of Trees the Orlando Museum of Art. Featuring designer trees and vignettes with daily entertainment provided by local area dance groups and choirs the festive event also offers trees, wreaths, gingerbread houses and decorative accessories available for purchase. The event runs daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is $10 for adults and $6 for children.

Festival of the Masters, Nov. 11 - 13
Showcasing one-of-a-kind paintings and limited-edition jewelry and sculptures, this prestigious show is ranked among the country's finest outdoor art festivals. Enjoy the amazing chalk art, live music, specialty foods and family-friendly activities with more than 150 award-winning artists at Downtown Disney Nov. 11-12 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Nov. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Light Up UCF, Nov. 11 - Jan. 1
This annual tradition is a perfect holiday outing for the entire family. Enjoy a holiday movie under the stars,take a whirl on the outdoor ice-skating rink and become mesmorized by the nightly light showfeaturing more than 75,000 individual lights dancing to holiday music. Admission to the event is free, however attraction prices vary.

Veteran's Parade, Nov. 12
Join Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and his Veterans Advisory Council to honor the courageous men and women of our armed forces on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 11 a.m. The parade showcase a variety of active duty military, high school marching bands, floats featured in Tampa's Gasparilla parade and more. Admission is free.

Come Out With Pride, Nov. 13
Known as one of the most colorful and friendly gay pride parades in the Florida, this event is also the largest LGBT showcase of businesses and organizations in Orlando that support the gay community.  Stroll through vendor booths around Lake Eola beginning at noon before the parade kicks off at 4 p.m. Admission is free.

This Week in Orlando: Arts, Culture, Food and Hot Rods?

Enjoy Orlando's beautiful fall weather at one of several special outdoor events this week featuring everything from music and art to a chef competition and custom cars. Here's what's happening in Orlando Nov. 1 - 6:

10th Annual Winter Park Concours d'Elegance, Nov. 5 - 6

Do Aston Martin, Jaguar, Austin Healey and Mercedes Benz cars get your motor running? Then don't miss Winter Park Concours d'Elegance this weekend. Set in Old Winter Park, six blocks of Park Avenue close to welcome more than 120 of the world's most prestigious automobiles. As one of the most highly regarded, judged exotic car shows in the U.S., highlights include Tour d'Elegance, a free exotic car parade, on Saturday, Nov. 5 and an awards ceremony on Sunday, Nov. 6 at 3 p.m.

Church Street Car Show, Nov. 5    

The Church Street District hosts the Classic to Customs Car Show on the first Saturday of every month on Church Street beginning from Orange Avenue toward the Amway Center from noon to 5 p.m. Food and drink specials from District members, special car-themed vendors and more than $1,000 in prizes make for a fantastic and free family event.

Fall Fiesta in the Park, Nov. 5 - 6

The 41st annual Fall Fiesta in the Park at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando features more than 600 juried artisans in all media, including ceramics, glassware, jewelry, photography, wood and clothing. This free event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra's Sunset & Symphony, Nov. 5

The award-winning Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and Bok Tower Gardens present the 10th annual Sunset & Symphony fall concert. Bring along family and friends for a picnic on the Great Lawn and enjoy a magical night as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain. The pre-show begins at 4:30 p.m. and features ZEROtaiko. Taiko is Japanese drumming that dates back centuries and was traditionally used for ceremonial purposes and celebrations of life and death. Concert tickets include general Gardens admission. Admission is $25 for adults and $10 for children five to 12.

Battle of the Parks, Nov. 6
Popular Orlando chefs square off for Battle of the Parks, a food and wine competition in downtown Orlando. Highlights include chefs from K, Ravenous Pig and HUE competing to create the best dish using a list of mystery ingredients and top sommeliers battling in blind taste tests. General admission is $40, but VIP tickets for $60 will get you closer to the action. The event runs from 1 - 5 p.m. at 100 S. Eola Drive and proceeds benefit American Cancer Society - Central Florida Chapter, Hope and Help and Animal Safe House Brevard County.

This Week in Orlando: Films, Food, Festivals & More

Embrace the spirit of diversity in Orlando this week with a line-up of special events that celebrate arts and culture. From independent film festivals and craft fairs to foodie events and cultural street parties, here's a list of what's happening in Orlando Oct. 17-23.

Around Town

Orlando Film Festival, Oct. 19-23
This film festival in downtown Orlando showcases more than 140 independent films from all over the world. Admission: $5 one-day pass (includes all screenings for that day); $15 all-festival pass (festival access every day).

Children's Miracle Network Classic, Oct. 20-23
This tournament brings together more than 125 top PGA Tour players in a quest for a multi-million dollar purse. The 72-hole event is played on Disney's Magnolia and Palm courses. Admission: $10 individual rounds, $20 weeklong badges and $30 one-day Wine & Dine ticket.

Central Florida Veg Fest, Oct. 22
This family-friendly festival offers educational exhibits and events about vegetarian cuisine and lifestyle. Held in Loch Haven Park from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., the veg fest features new products and ideas from more than 250 vendors and contributors as well as a wide variety of food preparation demos. Admission: free.

Mount Dora Craft Fair, Oct. 22-23
This nationally ranked juried event continues to attract more than 250,000 visitors and more than 350 of the best crafters in the country. The craft fair is held on the downtown streets of Mount Dora from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: free.

Zoo Boo Bash, October 22, 23, 29 & 30
Trick-or-treat in the wildest neighborhood in town at the Central Florida Zoo. Come dressed in costume to this family-friendly event, which features face painting, a haunted hayride and pumpkin patch. Kids can also learn about the myths and realities of misunderstood animals. Admission: included in zoo admission ($12.95 for adults and $8.95 for kids ages 3-12).

Festival Calle Orange, Oct. 23
Calle Orange is Central Florida's largest Hispanic street festival. Celebrate Hispanic culture in downtown Orlando with a variety of music, food and dancing. Admission: $15 general admission; kids 10 and under free.

Theme Park Events

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (pictured above), daily through Nov. 13
Sip, sample and savor treasures from around the world at this Epcot festival. From tasty tapas and refreshing beverages to celebrity chef demonstrations and rock star performances, there's something to satisfy most every taste and interest. Admission: event included in regular park admission ($85 for adults and $79 for children ages 3-9); tapas-sized portions of regional specialties run $3-$8 each.

SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular, every weekend in October
Youngsters can dive into this Halloween underwater "fantasea" every weekend in October. At this daytime event, kids can trick-or-treat, dance with whimsical sea creatures, catch silly and spooky shows and create sea-themed arts and crafts. Admission: included in park admission ($81.99 for adults and $73.99 for kids ages 3-9).

Halloween Horror Nights, select nights through Oct. 31
Celebrating 21 years of fear, Halloween Horror Nights returns to Universal Studios as the nation's most intense Halloween event. During select nights, the theme park transforms into a bloodcurdling labyrinth of haunted houses, scarezones and live shows as brave guests confront extreme Halloween entertainment. Admission: $81.99.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, select nights through Nov. 1
Guests of all ages are invited to dress in costume and trick-or-treat at Magic Kingdom's boo-free bash after regular park hours. The "not-so-scary" festivities include Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade and the bewitching Happy HalloWishes fireworks show. Admission: party tickets start at $53.95 for adults and $47.95 for kids 3-9.

For more special events in Orlando, check out our calendar of events here.

This Week in Orlando: LEGOLAND, Halloween & More

This week, take your pick from all of the fun celebrations happening in Orlando. From the opening of new theme park LEGOLAND Florida to the annual Halloween bashes at the theme parks, here's a list of what's happening Oct. 10-16.

Openings

LEGOLAND Florida (pictured below) officially opens Oct. 15! This 150-acre family theme park offers more than 50 rides, shows and attractions geared for families with children ages 2 to 12. Admission: $65 for adults and $55 for kids 3-12.

Around Town

Harriett's Park Avenue Fashion Week, daily through Oct. 15
Park Avenue's Fashion Week is a celebration of the local fashion retail and design community. The weeklong event includes trunk shows, designer meet-and-greets, special discounts and a grand finale runway show on Oct. 15. Admission to the runway show: $45 advance or $50 day of; VIP tickets available.

Pink Party Pub Crawl, Oct. 14
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, wear your favorite pink gear and join in downtown Orlando's pub crawl at select locations. All proceeds will benefit Rock Pink, an Orlando-based organization whose mission is to bring music and humanity together to raise breast health awareness. Admission: $12 advance or $15 at door (includes entry into each pub crawl location, a complimentary drink and drink specials).

Latin Food & Wine Festival, Oct. 14-15
Celebrate Hispanic heritage during the Latin Food & Wine Festival. The two-day event begins with Savor the Night on Oct. 14, an intimate culinary affair in downtown Orlando. The Grand Tasting, the festival's signature event on Oct. 15, showcases Latin cuisine from local restaurants. Enjoy palatable dishes, wines, entertainment and much more for the entire family. Admission: Savor the Night $75; Grand Tasting free.

Jazz ‘n Blues Stroll, Oct. 15
Guests enjoy a leisurely evening of live jazz music in a beautiful garden setting at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando. With lawn seating only, visitors can bring their own dinner picnic basket or purchase beverages and pastries onsite. Admission: general admission $16 advance or $20 day of.

Theme Park Events

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (pictured below) daily through Nov. 13
Sip, sample and savor treasures from around the world at this Epcot festival. From tasty tapas and refreshing beverages to celebrity chef demonstrations and rock star performances, there's something to satisfy most every taste and interest. Admission: event included in regular park admission ($85 for adults and $79 for children ages 3-9); tapas-sized portions of regional specialties run $3-$8 each.

SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular, every weekend in October
Youngsters can dive into this Halloween underwater "fantasea" every weekend in October. At this daytime event, kids can trick-or-treat, dance with whimsical sea creatures, catch silly and spooky shows and create sea-themed arts and crafts. Admission: included in park admission ($81.99 for adults and $73.99 for kids ages 3-9).

Halloween Horror Nights, select nights through Oct. 31
Celebrating 21 years of fear, Halloween Horror Nights returns to Universal Studios as the nation's most intense Halloween event. During select nights, the theme park transforms into a bloodcurdling labyrinth of haunted houses, scarezones and live shows as brave guests confront extreme Halloween entertainment. Admission: $81.99.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, select nights through Nov. 1
Guests of all ages are invited to dress in costume and trick-or-treat at Magic Kingdom's boo-free bash after regular park hours. The "not-so-scary" festivities include Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade and the bewitching Happy HalloWishes fireworks show. Admission: party tickets start at $53.95 for adults and $47.95 for kids 3-9.

For more special events in Orlando, check out our calendar of events here.