Your Guide to the NBA All-Star Weekend

Lineup of the All-Star Events

Thursday, Feb. 23 - Sunday, Feb. 26

- NBA Jam Session - Thursday to Friday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Be a part of NBA All-Star 2012! Meet your favorite players, get basketball tips from NBA legends, and play all day at the Orange County Convention Center. This is your chance to experience it all like never before.

Friday, Feb. 24

- BBVA NBA Rising Stars Challenge - 9 p.m.

The best of the sophomore and rookie players battle it out on the court! But this year, instead of playing against each other, rookies and sophomores will be mixed together on teams for the first time.  TNT analysts Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal will serve as the general managers of the two opposing teams - TEAM CHUCK and TEAM SHAQ - each with nine man rosters from a draft selected by the NBA's assistant coaches, with each team submitting one ballot.

Saturday, Feb. 25

- The Haier Shooting Stars Contest - First Event, beginning at 8:30 p.m.
Basketball fans will get geared up with this first event of the evening. One current NBA player, one current WNBA player and one TNT on-air talent/NBA legend will make up each team. There will be six numbered shooting locations of increasing difficulty, with each team attempting to make all shots in numeric order and in the fastest time. Each team will select a specific player rotation to follow throughout the competition. Each shot must be made before the next player begins shooting in succession. Teams have up to two minutes to complete the entire shooting course and the team that completes all six shots in the least amount of time is declared the winner. It's a fast, thrilling exhibition of shooting skills!

- Taco Bell Skills Challenge - Second Event

Plays have to get creative without breaking the rules in this challenge. Featuring a two-round timed "obstacle course," players in this event must dribble, pass and shoot while observing basic NBA ball-handling rules. The two players with the fastest times from the first round advance to the finals. Who do you think will win?

- Foot Locker Three-Point Contest - Third Event

Reigning champion James Jones of the Miami Heat will defend his title in this year's Foot Locker Three-Point Contest.

The players will compete in the two-round competition with the top three finishers from the first round advancing to the finals. Five shooting stations will be set up around the three-point line, with four Official Spalding NBA game balls worth one point each and one Spalding NBA All-Star 2012 commemorative red, white and blue "money ball" worth two points at each location. Each player will have one minute to shoot as many balls as he can. In the final round, players will shoot in ascending order of first-round scores. The competition is fierce, but only time will tell if James Jones can hold onto his title.

- Sprite Slam Dunk Contest - Fourth Event

This exciting final event of the night will feature a series of firsts, including four first-time participants, a new single-round format in which the winner will be chosen solely by fan vote, and the introduction of fan voting via Twitter.

The four players who will vie for the Sprite Slam Dunk championship include the Houston Rockets' Chase Budinger, the Indiana Pacers' Paul George, the New York Knicks' Iman Shumpert, and the Minnesota Timberwolves' Derrick Williams. Make sure you vote for your favorite player!

Sunday, Feb. 26

- The 61st All-Star Game - 7:30 p.m.

Finally, the 2012 NBA All-Star Game! This long-awaited night will bring together some of the most talented and passionate players in the league's history for a global celebration of the game. This is the second time Orlando has hosted the All-Star Game -- the city played host in 1992 when Magic Johnson came out of retirement to win the MVP in one of the most memorable moments in NBA history. Will this year top all the rest? Buy your tickets for all the All-Star events at nba.com/allstar2012 and come find out!

Musical Guests

Sports not your thing? The All-Star Game offers enough musical talent in one weekend to make any audiophile ecstatic.  Official performers include Pitbull and Ne-Yo, who will team up for the All-Star Game halftime, while Nicki Minaj will perform during the All-Star Game introductions. Mary J.Blige has been tapped to sing the U.S. national anthem prior to the game, with pop group Neverest delivering the Canadian anthem. Performances by Will.i.am. and Flo Rida, are scheduled to accompany Saturday's events, along Gym Class Heroes and J. Cole for the pre-game show.

Just wait, it gets better: The All-Star Game is known to attract "special guests" to join in the fun, and this year Orlando is hosting an incredible series of parties from Thursday, Feb. 23 - Sunday, Feb. 26 called We Are All-Star Weekend. Celebrities and artists such as Drake, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, and R. Kelly will host these exclusive events all over Orlando. Tickets and more information can be found on their website at weareallstarweekend.com.

Where to Eat

You might want a place to grab some grub when you're tired of arena food, but don't worry, Orlando has plenty of awesome options nearby. Just a five-minute walk west on Church Street offers delicious local fare, such as the classic American menu of Hamburger Mary's, top-quality sushi at Amura, or a perfect steak at Kres Chop House. Don't forget to stop by the Dessert Lady for a slice of cheese cake!

Parking Tips

The NBA All-Star Weekend will be an unforgettable Orlando event you won't want to miss. But with so many people coming in from across the nation, not to mention the NBA fans native to Orlando, parking might become a problem. Luckily, there are a few tricks to getting a space that don't involve getting there hours in advance or paying a fortune. Several downtown garage lots offer convenient parking just a little further than the arena garages, often at a fraction of the cost. Try parking at the Orange County Courthouse, Orlando Public Library, Bank of America or Central Parking. The courthouse lot might be the best option. It only costs $5, and you can take a free shuttle from the northeast corner of Amelia and Orange or walk about three blocks to the arena. Parking prices at the other lots vary, but expect to pay around $10. You can also check out the map of nearby parking provided by the Amway Center at amwaycenter.com/parking-map.

Music Makes the People Come Together

Rock out and dance as Orlando becomes the unofficial music capital of the springtime. Featuring many of music's biggest names performing at Universal Studios and SeaWorld Orlando, there is bound to be an act or two that you cannot miss! Universal Studios is throwing parties every weekend with Mardi Gras while SeaWorld Orlando is celebrating with great food, drinks and music during Bands, Brew and BBQ. Both events kick off Feb. 11.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras

The beads and music of The Big Easy are on their way to Orlando for Universal Studios Mardi Gras 2012! As the sun goes down, see 14 of music's biggest names performing live at the Universal Music Plaza Stage. The best part about the event is that admission is included with your entrance ticket or year pass. Each week a limited number of pass holders have the chance to take special part in the festivities and ride through the park as part of the parade! Space is limited, so make sure to register as soon as possible. http://www.universalorlandoresort.com/mardigras/evite2012/ Check out the following concert lineup:

• Saturday, Feb. 11, B-52's
• Saturday, Feb. 18, Kelly Clarkson
• Sunday, Feb. 19, Boyz II Men
• Saturday, Feb. 25, Diana Ross
• Saturday, March 3, Goo Goo Dolls
• Saturday, March 10, Big Time Rush
• Friday, March 16, J. Cole
• Saturday, March 17, Sugar Ray
• Friday, March 23, Hot Chelle Rae
• Saturday, March 24, B.o.B.
• Friday, March 30, Plain White T's
• Saturday, March 31, Prince Royce
• Saturday, April 7, Cyndi Lauper
• Saturday, April 14, KC & the Sunshine Band
  
  

SeaWorld Bands, Brew and BBQ

2012's Bands, Brew & BBQ will be twice as fun this year with rockin' concerts being hosted both Saturdays and Sundays. Top classic rock and country music artists will have you entertained with incredible concerts all weekend long. For sizzle and flavor, SeaWorld partnered with favorite local restaurants to bring a rich variety of BBQ and great grilled food to the theme park. There's a thirst-quenching beer garden featuring nearly 50 craft beers from around 20 different domestic and international breweries. Bands, Brew & BBQ is also included with park admission! Check out the following concert line up:

• Saturday, Feb. 11, Foreigner
• Sunday, Feb. 12, Gary Allan
• Saturday, Feb. 18, Trace Adkins
• Sunday, Feb. 19, Kenny Rogers
• Saturday, Feb. 25, Doobie Brothers
• Sunday, Feb. 26, Ronnie Dunn
• Saturday, March 3, Sara Evans
• Sunday, March 4, Scotty McCreery

Super Bowl Action in Orlando

With the Super Bowl just days away, Orlando's downtown pubs and sports bars are preparing for some major action. If you'll be in Orlando on game day, you'll find a variety of great viewing parties that will appeal to everyone - from the casual fan to die-hard football fanatics. Here is a list with some of Orlando's best viewing spots for Super Bowl XLVI this weekend:

ESPN Club at Disney's Boardwalk
ESPN Club at Disney's Boardwalk allows for the ultimate experience in sports entertainment. Located at the edge of scenic Crescent Lake, ESPN Club is the most devoted sports club this side of the major leagues.

Wall Street Plaza
Watch the game on the biggest screen in town at Wall Street Plaza's Super Block party. Featuring a giant 16-foot LED TV offering great views for everyone, this is the place to go if you want a lively, party atmosphere while enjoying the big game. Be sure to drop in early for FREE draft beers from 5 - 6 p.m.

World of Beer
World of Beer will be offering great specials at all three Orlando locations during the big game. Check each location for the specials.

Buffalo Wild Wings
With seven Central Florida locations, this hot spot is the place to go for wings and Super Bowl specials. With a large number of TVs and projection screens throughout the restaurant, you're sure to have a good seat for the game.

Enzian Theater
Enzian's pre-game party starts at 3 p.m.., so arrive early and bring your favorite chair to grab the best spot outside on the lawn and enjoy great happy hour specials throughout the night.

Morton's Steak House
Morton's is taking patrons to a new level of Super Bowl watching with Power Hour-priced drinks and a Bar Bite menu with $5 offerings throughout the game. The game will be broadcast on LCD screens at the bar and on a 9-foot drop-down screen in comfortable, private rooms.

On your mark, get set, go! 2012 Orlando Race Schedule

Each year, Orlando offers a variety of 5K's and half and full marathons to help you keep those New Year's resolutions going strong all year long, while soaking up the sunshine. Take part in walking and running races through unique locations like the Orlando wetlands or the happiest place on earth, Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy Orlando's wonderful outdoor year-round weather as you sprint your way to a healthier new you.  

• Dick Batchelor Run for the Children 5-K, Jan. 28
• Lady Track Shack 5K, Feb. 4
• Orlando Xtreme Marathon, Feb. 11
• Disney's Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Feb. 24 - 26
• Smile Mile, March 10
• PPMS Charity 5K & Family Fun Run, March 24
• Winter Park Road Race, March 24
• Memory Miles Breast Cancer 5K Walk/Run, March 25
• Baldwin Park Parquet 5K Race, March TBD
• Corporate 5-K presented by IOA, April 12
• Expedition Everest Challenge, May 5
• I-Drive 5K Run, May 12
• The GORUCK Challenge, May 19
• Operation Giveback 10K, 5K, Kids Run, May TBD
• Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series 5K Race 1, June TBD
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend, Sept. 28 - 29
• Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, Nov. 9 - 10
• Elf Classic Distance Dare 10K and 5K Races, Dec. TBD
• Reindeer Run 3M Race, Dec. TBD
• SeaWorld Orlando Marathon, Dec. TBD

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.  

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Orlando

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a variety of community events occurring throughout the holiday weekend with various parades, celebrations and memorial vigils. Orlando offers the unique opportunity to honor Dr. King's great strides in equality with the town of Eatonville's historic celebration events. Eatonville is the first incorporated black town of America and the hometown of Zora Neale Hurston, the famous author of "Their Eyes Were Watching God." Below is a list of events honoring the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  

 Photo courtesy of Ted Hollins

28^th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, Jan. 14
The Southwest Orlando Jaycees and the City of Orlando's Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission present this year's MLK holiday parade in Downtown Orlando, Saturday, Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. This year's theme is "Remember, Celebrate, Act...A Mission Still To Fulfill," reminding attendees of the many marches for freedom, the bitter struggles and the selfless service to each other that was and is still needed to help triumph over poverty, racism, war and violence.

King Festival, Jan. 14
Join the Southwest Orlando Jaycees, FaithWorld Music Department and Pastor Clint Brown at Lake Eola Park immediately following the MLK parade for the King Festival in Downtown Orlando.  

35^th Annual Eatonville MLK Celebration, Jan. 14
The Town of Eatonville honors the great strides Dr. King made in the American Civil Rights movement with a special parade and town celebration beginning at 2 p.m.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Vigil, Jan. 16
Observe MLK Day through a variety of performances, including dance, song, speech and music in the Knowles Memorial Chapel in Rollins College at 6 p.m. Hannibal Square Heritage Center Historian and Manager Fairolyn Livingston will be on hand as the keynote speaker.  

6^th Annual Ocoee MLK Celebration, Jan. 16
Enjoy the MLK Day parade beginning at Citrus Elementary School at 10 a.m., featuring Orange County mayor Teresa Jacobs as Grand Marshall, keynote speaker Lucas D. Boyce, Director of Community Relations for the Orlando Magic, and music by the Garden Community Choir.  

Midnight Magic – Orlando's Top 10 Spots for a New Year’s Kiss

Forget the crowded streets of Times Square, Orlando offers some of the most intimate and memorable spots to ring in the New Year. Here is a list we know you'll enjoy.

10. Wekiwa Springs State Park - Camp under the stars at Wekiwa State Park and share a sweet peck with someone you love at midnight.

9. The Grand Bohemian Hotel - Kiss under the stars and chic chandeliers on the rooftop pool and lounge at this trendy hotel in the heart of downtown Orlando. The hotel's restaurant also offers a romantic New Year's Eve dinner for two.  

8. The IceBar - It's so chilly, you have no choice but to cuddle. And IceBall 2012 is filled with romantic places where you can smooch, cuddle, and dance the night away with a live DJ.

7. The Wine Room on Park Avenue - As the clock strikes midnight around the world, toast with someone special and a sample of wine from this local favorite, which offers 150 varieties of wine.

6. The Melting Pot Orlando - A dimly-lit room and conversation over slowly cooking fondue is why The Melting Pot is one of Orlando's most romantic restaurants. What's more, there is a special 4-course New Year's Eve menu perfect for lovers.

5. Lake Eola Park - Begin the New Year with kisses on a swan boat built for two. You can also catch downtown Orlando's New Year's Eve fireworks display from a cozy, romantic spot.  

4. The Orlando Improv - Share a romantic dinner for two, champagne and laugh the night away at the Improv's special New Year's Eve celebration.  

3. Downtown Orlando - Just as the orange drops, the celebration in downtown Orlando, the area's largest, gets cranking. Share a kiss at a cozy, romantic lounge or right on the brick-lined streets of Orange Avenue.

2. Theme park stroll - There are few things more romantic than sharing a New Year's Eve kiss under a spectacular fireworks show, and all of our theme parks have that and more during their New Year's Eve celebrations.

1. Local concert venues - Check out a top local or international act at one of the concert venues in the area like Hard Rock Live, House of Blues or The Social.

Got to our events calendar for a full listing of New Year's Eve events in Orlando.

Orlando In The "End Zone" for Bowl Week

Are you ready for some football? Then Orlando is the place to be this week! Fans nationwide are gearing up for the Capital One and Champs Sports Bowl games in Orlando taking place inside the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Despite the games being televised on ESPN, you don't want to miss out on all of the events and happenings in Orlando during this spectacular sporting event!

Here's the scoop:

What: 2011 Champs Sports Bowl
When: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 29
Where: Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
Who: Florida State Seminoles vs. The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame

What: 2012 Capital One Bowl
When: 1 p.m. Jan. 2
Where: Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium
Who: South Carolina Gamecocks vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Individual tickets start at $32 for the 2011 Champs Sports Bowl and at $52 for the 2012 Capital One Bowl.  Tickets and a complete list of events are available at fcsports.com.

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

Holiday Dining in Orlando

Visiting Orlando for the holidays or want to give the cook in your family a break from the kitchen? Some of Orlando's best restaurants are serving delicious meals for every appetite and will make you feel right at home. Can't decide where to go? Here is a list of just a few of the many holiday dining options you'll find in Orlando:

Oscar's at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando - On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Oscar's will feature a holiday family dinner buffet that includes traditional holiday recipes, new Waldorf Astoria traditions and a special dessert finale. Reservations: 407-597-5500. 

Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria - Enjoy a four-course holiday meal including a choice of entrees, such as a holiday goose carved tableside, along with special selections created by Chef David Sears. The standard Bull & Bear a la carte menu will also be available. Reservations recommended: 407-597-5500.

The Tropicale at Caribe Royale - Feast on an extensive buffet planned in the Tropicale, featuring traditional holiday favorites and gourmet desserts freshly prepared by the pastry team, while enjoying live holiday jazz music. Reservations: 407-238-8000.

Rosen Plaza Christmas Day Grand Buffet - Indulge in a grand variety of food at this buffet which includes an Antipasto and Chilled Salad Station, soup station, seafood station, carving station, pasta station and last but not least, a dessert station. Reservations: 407-996-0256.

Garden Grove at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin - Celebrate the holidays with some of Disney's characters and enjoy traditional holiday meals. Reservations: 407-934-1609

Meet Santa Claus in Orlando

While the elves are busy in the workshop preparing for Christmas, Santa Claus is keeping a full schedule of appearances around Orlando. From theme parks and resorts to shopping centers and other attractions, Santa is ready to hear what's on your wish list this holiday season. Just be sure you're on the nice list!

Orlando Attractions

Walt Disney World Resort - While Mickey Mouse might be the most popular character to meet at Walt Disney World Resort, Santa Claus is also on-hand at a variety of Disney properties throughout the holiday season including:

• Downtown Disney Marketplace - Santa's Chalet at the Downtown Disney Marketplace operates from noon to 10 p.m. through Dec. 24. Santa Goofy will continue greeting guests Dec. 25 to Jan. 1 from 3-10 p.m.
• Epcot - Santa will appear daily at The American Adventure at Epcot through Dec. 24. You can also stop by the countries represented in the World Showcase to hear storytellers describe local holiday traditions or see a representation of that country's "Santa Claus."
• Magic Kingdom - Santa greets guests during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and appears in Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.

SeaWorld Orlando - Get an exclusive visit with Santa through the park's "Family Fun at Christmas Tour." This 4-hour walking tour also includes feeding dolphins and sea lions, touching a penguin, reserved seats at "One Ocean," a light meal and front-of-the-line access to The Polar Express Experience.

LEGOLAND Florida - Visitors to the new theme park will find Santa Claus in the historical botanical gardens for daily photo opportunities.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex - "Holidays in Space" will feature meet and greet opportunities with Santa Claus at Santa's Launch Control Center, while Mrs. Claus will host story times at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. daily through Dec. 24.

Old Town - The shopping and entertainment attraction in Kissimmee, hosts "Old Town Christmas" with photo ops with Santa through Dec. 23. Hours are 5-8 p.m., Monday-Friday and 3-8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Orlando Malls and Shopping Centers

The Mall at Millenia - Santa Claus will make his home in the mall's "Hollyville" through Dec. 24, during regular mall hours. Each child visiting will receive a complimentary holiday gift.

The Florida Mall - Children will receive a free gift while supplies last with each visit with Santa Claus, who will be onsite through Dec. 24. Check the signage posted in the malls' center court for Santa's specific hours.

Orlando Fashion Square Mall - Santa will be ready and waiting to pose for the perfect holiday picture in the mall's Center Court through Dec. 24. Check the website for specific times and "reindeer breaks." Santa will also welcome pets for photos on Dec. 5 and 12 from 6-8 p.m.

Hotels

Nickelodeon Suites Resort is hosting its annual winter celebration, LET IT SNOW through Jan. 2. The resort transforms into a Winter Wonderland for kids of all ages to enjoy, featuring an 80-foot-long ice slide, snow falling nightly on the Oasis Pool, sparkling holiday lights that dance to music and of course, Santa Claus and everyone's favorite Nickelodeon characters, including Dora the Explorer.
Universal Orlando Resort - Universal's on-site hotels offer a variety of opportunities to celebrate the holidays and meet Santa Claus including "Feste Felici" at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel,  "Happy Rockin' Holidays" at Hard Rock Hotel and "Hom 'ol i Lanni" at Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

Gaylord Palms - Through December 24, Santa Claus will meet with children inside the Emerald Bay atrium. The property also has an email station outside of the Holiday Hall across from ICE! for children to electronically contact Santa.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando - On December 24 between 7-9 p.m., Mrs. Claus will tuck little ones in with a snack and bedtime story during the resort's "Holiday Tuck-In."  Advance reservations required by calling the Concierge.

Rosen Shingle Creek - Santa Claus will spread holiday cheer in the resort's lobby on Dec., 2, 3, 10, 9, 16 and 17 from 6-7:30 p.m.