Orlando Weekly College Guide 2015

DRINKS • VIEWS • ARTS • FOOD • FUN DRINKS • VIEWS • ARTS • FOOD • FUN

ORLANDO ORLANDO WEEKLY’S WEEKLY’S

FREE FREE 2015 2015 COLLEGE COLLEGE SURVIVAL SURVIVAL GUIDE GUIDE

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COVER PHOTO BY KARA ROUNTREE Publisher Graham Jarrett Associate Publisher Leslie Egan Editor Erin Sullivan Editorial Arts & Culture Editor Jessica Bryce Young Associate Editor Ashley Belanger Staff Writer Monivette Cordeiro Calendar Editor Thaddeus McCollum Digital Content Editor Colin Wolf Intern Cooper Smith, Caroline Fernandez Contributors Rob Bartlett, Jenn Benner, Jeffrey C. Billman, Rob Boylan, Justin Braun, Teege Braune, Patrick Cooper, Jason Ferguson, Christopher Garcia, Hannah Glogower, Matt Gorney, James Greene Jr., Holly V. Kapherr, Faiyaz Kara, Audrey Kristine, Seth Kubersky, Bao Le-Huu, Nick McGregor, Cameron Meier, Jeff Meyers, Dave Plotkin, Richard Reep, Steve Schneider, Yulia Tikhonova

ORLANDO WEEKLY’S FREE COLLEGE SURVIVAL GUIDE

Advertising Senior Multimedia Account Executive Dan Winkler Multimedia Account Executives Scott Navarro, Michelle Rogers Account Manager Rebecca Pourghafari Marketing and Events Marketing and Events Director Brett Blake Events and Promotions Manager Brad Van De Bogert Promotions Coordinator Rachel Hoyle Marketing/Promotions Interns Ryan Glaze, Michele Eilertsen

TA B L E O F CONTENTS

41 Eats and treats

11 Words to the wise

50 Deliverance!

The advice Orlando Weekly’s writers would give to their college selves

Where to order food from when you’re tired of pizza

15 Web savvy Our favorite Orlando-centric websites

17 There’s no place like …

Dorm room must-have snacks

53 Secondhand gems Some essential Orlando vintage stores

55 Indie venues

Creative Services Creative Services Director Adam McCabe Creative Services Manager Shelby Sloan Graphic Designers Christopher Kretzer, Michelle Dillon Business Business Manager Stacey Commer Office Assistant Alma Hill Circulation Circulation Manager Keith Coville Euclid Media Group Chief Executive Officer Andrew Zelman Chief Operating Officers Chris Keating, Michael Wagner Chief Financial Officer Brian Painley Human Resources Director Lisa Beilstein Digital Operations Coordinator Jaime Monzon euclidmediagroup.com National Advertising: Voice Media Group 1-888-278-9866, voicemediagroup.com

How to successfully rock the local music scene

Eight things to do when homesickness hits

Orlando Weekly Inc. 16 W. Pine St. Orlando, Florida 32801 orlandoweekly.com

59 Party planning

Phone 407-377-0400 Fax 407-377-0420

21 Money management and financial aid 101

Strategies for successful clubbing in downtown Orlando

Orlando Weekly is published every week by Euclid Media Group

65 Daily planner

Orlando Distribution Orlando Weekly is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader.

How college students are becoming more financially literate

27 Hot spots

From trivia nights to open mics to club nights, there’s something to do every night

The must-visit places around your campus

75 Save the date

37 Social networking Where to meet new friends off campus

A year’s worth of street parties, fairs, festivals and events you won’t want to miss

Verified Audit Member

Copyright notice: The entire contents of Orlando Weekly are copyright 2015 by Euclid Media Group LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Publisher does not assume any liability for unsolicited manuscripts, materials, or other content. Any submission must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All editorial, advertising, and business correspondence should be mailed to the address listed above.

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Words to the wise

help us avoid some of the pain, embarrassment and hassle that comes with the inevitably stupid things we did when we thought we had it all under control.

The advice our adult selves would give to our college selves

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o matter how experienced, smart or wise beyond your years you may think you are, you don’t know everything when you get to college. In fact, you really know almost nothing. The years you spend here are the ones where you (hopefully) learn to be truly independent, forge meaningful adult relationships and figure out just how far you can push boundaries before you totally muck everything up. So that means you’re going to make some bad decisions. Probably a lot of them. Here are some words of wisdom our current selves would love to give our college selves, to

Dear younger Colin: Don’t open a credit card for a free Bob Marley T-shirt. If you have roommates, only have one dish each.

Seriously, one bowl, one spoon, everything.

Keep a towel in your car to drape over yourself when eating fast food – Taco Bell tomatoes will eventually fall under your driver’s seat and never find their way out.

Never buy textbooks. Every book you need is in the library or online in PDF form. If it’s an old volume, it doesn’t matter. Wash your sheets. Call your mom. Stop changing your major. In fact, just drop out. Invent Google. – Colin Wolf You know that girl you were dating in high school? Don’t try and continue that CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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nonsense into college. Seriously, just let it go. She’s going to cheat on you with some chiseled-jaw douchecake, and you don’t want any of the fallout you’re about to experience from that. I know, I know: You only live an hour away. It’s not like you’re going to college in Zimbabwe. You’re goodlooking and you have a bright future with a solid 401(k) and medical benefits. Kick her to the curb and take over the world.

– Adam McCabe Learn to type super fast. Hit “save” every five minutes. And back. Up. Everything.

Don’t sweat your major; just soak up as much knowledge as you can. It’s a treat, and you’re paying for it, so revel in it. Don’t dress a certain way or go to a certain place just because everyone else wears that or goes there. Follow your own curiosity – you’ll meet people who are better suited to real friendships than the people you meet by imitating the crowd. Work hard on the project, not the excuse. When you realize you’re going to be five minutes late to class, don’t turn around and go home – keep walking. Kudos to younger me: One thing you did right was always have at least one job besides schoolwork. Learning to be accountable and earning your own money from the jump was a smart move. – Jessica Bryce Young

ever keep dating a guy because you feel bad dumping him. Just do it and get it over with. It’s way less painful than the weeks or months you’ll spend dragging that shit out.

Drink more water and less beer. Don’t listen to Phish. Don’t move into a house with five roommates – the drama will almost kill you. Don’t take out that extra loan for living expenses if you don’t really need it – that money will come back to haunt you later. Be OK with spending time alone – it’ll give you time to learn what you really like to do. Stop trying to decide whether to pursue your master’s degree now or later.

Do it now – you are definitely not going to find the time later. Take it from me – I know.

– Erin Sullivan Hey college me, I’ll wait for you to wipe away the drool from the nap you’re taking on that bench. I know that right now you hate college and are exhausted from memorizing the wonders of media law last night. But you’re going to miss something about this thing they call a university in the middle of the swamp. First, you’re never going to have that many Starbucks that close to one another in one place again.

You’ll miss summer vacation, the sucky football team and telling the pastors in the plaza trying to convert you to f**k off.

College you isn’t your final form, baby girl.

– Monivette Cordeiro feedback@orlandoweekly.com

You got to college and it was not a big shift. That should’ve told you immediately that you were doing it wrong. Seek change, and don’t be so scared, silly. You’re not really that good at anything yet. If you like what you’re creating, you’re probably blind to its weaknesses. You’ll blush about it later. That’s not the bad part. The bad part is questioning the value of that past pride.

Avoid unproductive nitpicking – these glaring flaws can inform you. Now and then, and before and later, too. Let the past be funny. Leave what’s coming to smarter future you and be cool now. Oh, and don’t take the a.m. shift at the tutoring lab. That’s just unrealistic. – Ashley Belanger Don’t be a serial dater – none of the guys you go out with now are going to last.

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Tasty Chomps tastychomps.com @tastychomps

Web savvy Our favorite Orlando-centric websites

Restaurant reviews and foodie news. Food blogger Ricky Ly and his team are always on top of restaurant openings and closings, and they’ll tell you which Orlando restaurants are worth checking out – and which you should probably avoid.

The Orlandoan theorlandoan.com

This site features interviews with local people doing cool things and a weekly events calendar, and it sells our favorite Orlando Tshirt, which reads: “Orlando doesn’t suck.”

Orlando Weekly orlandoweekly.com facebook.com/orlandoweekly @orlandoweekly

Yes, we know, it’s our publication and our site. But our weekly issue, published in print and online every Wednesday, tells you about all the good stuff happening in Orlando – think of it as your guide to the city.

You can browse our website, pick it up in hard copy (it’s somewhere on your college campus) or browse it in flipbook form on your iPad (just download the app). We have blogs, a weekly calendar, guides to dining and neighborhoods and tons more.

Central Florida Top 5 centralfloridatop5.com @centralfltop5

If you’re looking for quick tidbits about stuff happening in Orlando right now, as well as thoughts on, say, the five best meatballs on the menu at the Meatball Shoppe or what the best cell phone carriers are in the Orlando area, check this website. It’s updated all the time with new stuff, and if you want to keep up, follow the site on Twitter.

Shows I Go To showsigoto.com @showsigoto

This Orlando music blog has gone to all of the shows you’ve been to – and the ones you wish you went to. Check them out for photos, reviews and concert ticket giveaways.

Orlando on the Cheap orlandoonthecheap.com

Freebies, discounts and deals on everything from burritos to theme parks to events and more.

Orlando Date Night Guide orlandodatenightguide.com

This website is full of ideas for romantic evenings, fun daytime activities and cool getaways, but our favorite part is the cheap dates section of the site, where all the free and low-budget stuff happening around town is listed.

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Eight things to do when homesickness hits

by C a r o l i n E F E r n a n d E z

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e know what you’re thinking.

“College is finally here. i’m so ready to start an independent life. Why would i get homesick? Who has time for that?!” oK, confident, independent new college student. despite what you may think, homesickness is pretty normal for even the most composed college students. according to experts, most students get homesick at some point during their transition to college life.

So, if you happen to feel a little bit of the blues and start to miss home, take a deep

breath and follow our guide to get through homesickness.

1. Don’t go home Whatever you do, don’t go home. While going home might seem like the most logical thing to do when you start to feel a little homesick, it is actually one of the more detrimental things you could do. by going home you are enabling your homesickness, not trying to get through it. you’ll never become more comfortable at school if you go home every weekend.

2. Call your family in college, it’s cool to call home and talk to your loved ones. Hearing their voices will comfort you, and they’ll probably give you some advice for adjusting to college. be warned, it might be hard to hear about regular family activities they are now doing without you, but remember – now you must make new routines for yourself.

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3. Get out of your room if you just go to class, go to the dining hall and then go back to your room, things won’t get better. you won’t make any new friends, and you won’t form a connection to your university. This is going to be your home for the next four years, so join organizations that matter to you and meet people who will change your life.

4. Watch Netflix oK, we know we just said not to stay in your room, but you also need some time for yourself. after a long, hard week of classes and socialization, sometimes you need to binge-watch Real Housewives to feel a little better about yourself.

5. Keep in touch with friends from home it’s important to form friendships with people at your university, but no one understands you like your childhood and high school pals. reminisce with them and lean on them when you’re missing home. if they’re away at school, too, talking to them can help you realize that everyone gets a little homesick.

6. Know that everyone is in the same boat it may seem like everyone is seamlessly adjusting to college, but some people are good at hiding their feelings. Strike up a conversation with your suitemate about being homesick. you might be surprised when they say they’re feeling the same way.

7. Exercise Getting your heart pumping has infinite benefits. it keeps your immune system strong, prevents the Freshman 15 and also gives you energy. Many times feeling homesick gives you a lackluster feeling. Heading to the gym or running a mile will give you the confidence to tackle the world.

8. Remember, friendships take time you’re probably searching to instantly have the same bond with college friends that you had with friends from back home. Well, friendships take time. Think back. did you and your high school bestie have that inseparable bond after two days? Probably not. relationships of all kinds take time, so be patient and you’ll find friendships that will last a lifetime. feedback@orlandoweekly.com

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Money management and financial aid 101 How college students are becoming more financially literate

by C a r o l i n e F e r n a n d e z

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o you know how to balance a checkbook? How about how to determine your credit score or manage a 401(k)? if you feel like a fish out of water when trying to answer these questions, you’re not alone. a recent study by the Program for international Student assessment via the or-

ganization for economic Cooperation and development reported that american students scored below the worldwide average for basic finance and money-management understanding. almost 18 percent of american students were not able to perform basic financial literacy tasks, compared to the 15 percent world average of students who failed to perform.

Financial literacy becomes particularly important for young adults when they enter college and are hit with student loan decisions, taking on debt and spending their own money, often for the first time.

Many universities understand that managing financial aid and personal finances as a college freshman can be overwhelming.

So they’ve put policies in place to guide students. rollins College interim dean of enrollment Management Steve booker says that at rollins, the office of Financial aid helps CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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students stay on track with financial aid payment plans.

“We encourage everyone to put together a four-year plan to determine how much money they need to borrow,” booker says.

“When students are roughly three-quarters of the way through [their four years at rollins], and if they have borrowed a lot, we reach out to them to check in. We want to make sure their aid gets them through all four years.”

The University of Central Florida also sees how financial aid and money management are changing and, in many cases, becoming more multifaceted.

“Today’s student must navigate complex financial situations,” says alicia Keaton, director of the office of Student Financial assistance. “over the years, what students must understand to be considered financially literate has become more intensive.” in response, UCF created a comprehensive financial literacy program that will be available to students in fall 2015.

The program will include a financialliteracy website that provides students with information on student-loan management, healthy spending habits, saving strategies and financial protection, as well as online tutorials.

The programming won’t stop online.

UCF’s office of Student Financial assis-

tance also plans to host financial literacy programming throughout the year for students. but while the university can create as many programs as they want, they will only be useful if students have the time and desire to take advantage of them. “one of the biggest challenges to making students more financially literate is developing a program that fits into students’ schedules, which are often very hectic and busy,” Keaton says. “it is important for financial literacy programs to be accessible and flexible enough to provide students with the opportunity to become financially literate in a manner that is suitable for their lifestyles.”

The UCF chapter of the accounting fraternity beta alpha Psi (baP), which works to promote financial literacy, understands the difficulty of reaching students in their fast-paced environment. So during spring semester, baP created a youTube channel in hopes of reaching more students. one video asked a handful of UCF students from varying backgrounds and majors to try to define financial terms in their own words.

UCF student and baP chapter president bianca bermudez said they put their educational materials into a youTube video to attract and teach more students.

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“Most students quite simply don’t understand the terminology for finances,” bermudez says. “So we made [the videos] lighthearted and witty, to make the videos more approachable.”

Student-based organizations that promote financial literacy are becoming more widespread.

Valencia College also has an organization, Valencia Financial ambassadors, run by students who work to educate students on managing personal finances.

The organization did not respond to a request for more information about their

Tips for not crawling too far into debt during college Look at your financial needs versus wants analyze what you are spending your money on. Compare whether your money is going toward necessities (tuition, insurance, books, rent) or just wants (video games, concerts, takeout, shopping sprees).

Take advantage of campus offerings if you live on campus and have a meal plan, your food is already paid for, so think twice the next time you want to order a large pizza. also, look into different forms of entertainment on campus. While it’s not front row at Maroon 5, student concerts, dance and theater performances, and art shows are often free, and therefore easier on your wallet.

Maximize your time each semester Take as many credit hours as your aid will cover for that semester, not just the minimum hours. The more you stretch out your classes, the longer you will be in school, which leads to increased debt.

This applies more if you are paying by semester instead of credit hour, but it is also a good practice to take as many classes as you are financially and mentally able to.

The earlier you graduate, the sooner you can start paying off loans.

work, but according to their Facebook page their mission is to “increase financial awareness among the student population through peer-to-peer learning.” as more students become aware of money management initiatives, financial literacy is expected to increase. Keaton sees financial literacy becoming more commonplace for students in the future.

“There is a consensus that a financially literate population is a benefit to the nation,” she says. “Hence, financial education programs will become more prevalent in the future [and] hopefully result in a more financially literate population.” feedback@orlandoweekly.com

Do your research when buying textbooks in addition to checking out the campus bookstore, also look online at discount textbook websites. Many sites, including bookrenter, Chegg and amazon, sell textbooks at a discounted price. and remember, if possible it’s always cheaper to rent a book rather than buy it.

Apply for scholarships Free money is good money, so take the time to apply for scholarships. do your research and once you do, you’ll realize that scholarships are given not just from your university, but also from local and national organizations.

Know your loan repayment options There are several repayment plans available for federal student loans. The key is to understand which ones are best for you in the short and long term.

The money you borrow will eventually cost you While it seems great to apply for aid and receive money to help you get by, one day in the near future you’ll feel its effects.

There’s no such thing as free money (except for scholarships and kind grandparents on your birthday). drill into your head that all loans must be repaid, so borrow only what you need.

Tips compiled from advice via Steve Booker of Rollins College and Alicia Keaton of UCF

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The must-visit hotspots near your campus

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ur crack team of interns scouted out the various campuses in Orlando and found the places they thought were the most student-friendly and interesting. When you finally get around to checking them out for yourself, check in on Facebook or Instagram so your friends know you’ve found the perfect place to do whatever it is you’re up to.

Your school: Full Sail University Your destinations are located: on the east side of Winter Park The Geek Easy

PHOTO BY ROB BARTLeTT

114 S. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park 407-332-9636 mygeekeasy.com

The Owl’s Attic 4031 Forsyth Road, Winter Park 321-300-6957 theowlzattic.com

This little vintage shop has become a regular winner in Orlando Weekly’s Best of Orlando readers polls for a reason: It’s packed with awesome, but still reasonably priced, finds. Outfit yourself or your home – they’ve got stuff that’ll suit both of you.

Sleeping Moon Café 495 N. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park 321-972-8982 facebook.com/sleepingmooncafe.com

This artsy coffee shop is as much a spot to showcase your talents as it is to get innovative sandwiches, tasty vegan alternatives and a satisfying Thai tea to go. With free Wi-Fi, an excellent collection of board games and plenty of tables on which to spread out your work, it’s fast become a favorite spot among students and staff for their teas and healthy treats as well as their Full Sail discount.

Toasted

This bar/lounge in the back of A Comic Shop comic store is the perfect place for both vegging and nerding out. You can visit the lounge to watch TV, play video games, catch up on your comics, drink beer or snack on fancy grilled cheese sandwiches. Stick around for trivia nights, viewing parties, open mic nights, dance parties and more.

1945 Aloma Ave., Winter Park 407-960-3922 igettoasted.com

A restaurant devoted solely to gourmet grilled cheese is as American as it gets, especially when the bread is slathered with butter, served extra crispy (with plenty of roasty burnt cheese bits) and paired with homemade tomato soup.

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Your school: Rollins College Your destinations are located: in downtown Winter Park and on Fairbanks Avenue Austin’s Coffee 929 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park 407-975-3364 austinscoffee.com

When they’re not hosting hip-hop night or open mic Mondays, the people over at Austin’s coffee are working 24 hours a day, serving up some of the best fair-trade coffee, beer and edibles in town. There’s an endless supply of caffeine to ease you into an all-nighter. Spend study breaks conversing with fellow patrons, playing one of the many board games on the back wall or admiring the local art adorning the walls.

Dexter’s 558 W. New England Ave., Winter Park 407-629-1150 dexwine.com

After a few weeks on campus, you’re going to want a dining hall alternative. (“I’m so tired of this omelet bar!”) Fortunately, right down the street from campus is Dexter’s, and by the food’s simple elegance, you would never expect the vibe to be so downto-earth and the prices to be so collegefriendly. Sunday brunch is a local favorite.

At just a 12-minute walk to or from campus, it’s also pretty convenient.

neighborhood than with a free bike rental from the Olin Library Circulation desk, provided by the school’s Sustainability program? Hop on your bike in front of the Alfond Sports Center and spend the day riding around campus and beyond.

Park Social 358 N. Park Ave., Winter Park 407-636-7020 facebook.com/parksocialwinterpark

Park Social is a “speakeasy-style” bar (meaning you need a password to get in and its existence is not immediately apparent) with a swingin’ 1970s vibe. Swill cocktails (both classic and original) and order the cheese plate.

Spatz Deli and Billiard Liquor 1025 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park 407-647-3354 facebook.com/spatz1025

Just a stone’s throw from campus, this low-key joint has pool tables, darts, arcade games and cheap drinks. It’s popular with the Rollins crowd, and unlike a lot of the little bars and restaurants along Park Ave., it’s open past midnight most nights.

251 S. Park Ave., Winter Park 407-629-0054 enzian.org

Our local art house, Enzian Theater, partners with the city of Winter Park to present family-friendly films on the second Thursday of each month in Central Park.

Bring a picnic (or a vat of ice cream from Kilwin’s) and some blankets, and lounge on the lawn from 8 p.m. (weather permitting) until the credits roll.

Park Avenue/Lake Virginia with help from the Bicycle Library Program Rollins is nestled at the south end of Park Avenue, right on the shores of Lake Virginia.

The best of everything is on Park Ave., from dining and shopping to the park and the museum. What better way to explore the 28 ● ORLANDO 101 | COLLege SURVIVAL gUIDe 2015

Rollins College

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Waterford Lakes Town Center 413 N. Alafaya Trail

Your school: University of Central Florida and Valencia College – East Campus Your destinations are located: in and around East Orlando Knight Library 11448 University Blvd.

407-704-7477 knightlibrary.com

If you go to UCF, you’ll inevitably be drinking here. There’s a reason USA Today recently ranked it the No. 2 college bar in the United States.

Knights Pub 3910 N. Alafaya Trail 407-382-4171 knightspuborlando.com

Waterford Lakes Town Center offers just about everything your little shopaholic heart desires. It’s got mega stores (Target), budget shopping (T.J. Maxx), boutiques (Forema) and a wide variety of restaurants (Friendly Confines, Starbucks, TooJays deli). The only downside: Driving in the parking lot can be a full-on nightmare, so watch where you’re going.

Your school: Seminole State College Your destinations are located: in Lake Mary and downtown Sanford The Barn

Operated by UCF alumni – the same folks who run popular downtown clubs Tier and Ono – Knights Pub knows what students want from their college bar. That is to say, drink specials every night of the week and a good place to settle in on game days.

Lazy Moon 11551 University Blvd.

407-658-2396 lazymoonpizza.com

1200 S. French Ave., Sanford 407-324-2276 thebarninsanford.com

This is not exactly a college bar – it’s more like a massive country-themed neighborhood bar. But it offers tons of daily drink specials, themed nights (Thursday is college night), line-dancing nights, an openmic night and more. And it’s right up the road from campus.

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Start your night off with a giant slice of pizza and a pitcher of PBR at Lazy Moon.

Create your own or pick a signature – Jason’s Mom’s slice, with ranch dressing, chicken and caramelized onions, is a popular choice – or make it interesting and try the El Fidel, a slice with a mustard base, mojo pork and dill pickles. The vibrant pizza shop is always booming from lunchtime to late into the night, with hordes of hungry people. One slice is all you need to get the job done – they’re huge.

Lazy Moon

PHOTO BY ROB BARTLeTT

Natura Coffee and Tea 12078 Collegiate Way 407-482-8599 naturacoffeeandtea.com

Tucked away between University Boulevard and Alafaya Trail lies Natura Coffee and Tea, a little oasis with Wi-Fi, a few comfy couches and some intimate tables; it’s the perfect place to get amped on caffeine while you’re studying for finals.

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Teak Neighborhood Grill

Celery City Craft 114 S. Palmetto Ave., Sanford 407-915-5541 celerycitycraft.com

Stocking tons of craft beer and wine (more than 100 varieties!), Celery City Craft plays games with your heart by challenging visitors to darts, shuffleboard and other playful ways to fully embrace competitive spirits.

Little Fish Huge Pond 401 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford 407-221-1499 littlefish-hugepond.com

We couldn’t settle on just one bar for this category, because to leave the quirkiest little pub in the region off the list would be a travesty. While not exactly a “college bar,” Little Fish Huge Pond is a haven for the artsy set – oddball movie nights, bands, art shows and unique nights, like Harry’s Man Cave night, are the kinds of things that make this bar special. Do check in. You won’t regret it.

West End Trading Co. 202 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford 407-322-7475 drinkatwestend.com

It’s half raucous bar, half live music venue, and it’s always a trip bouncing between both sides and taking in great local bands while downing draft beer and comfort food.

Your school: Valencia College – West Campus

Achilles Art Café 2869 Wilshire Drive 407-704-7860 achillesartcafe.com

Just a four-minute drive off campus, Achilles Art Café and Coffee Shop is the perfect place to relax during that long break you have between classes. They serve coffee and sandwiches and they’ve got free Wi-Fi – it’s an oasis of comfy couches and caffeine, two things every college student needs.

All-you-can-eat Brazilian buffet every day of the week, as well as a by-the-pound option, makes this an economical and delicious choice for lunch, dinner or takeout.

Better yet, there’s also a Brazilian butcher shop and market here, which means you can stock up on all of the Brazilian goodies you can’t get anywhere else.

Teak Neighborhood Grill 6400 Times Square Ave. 407-313-5111 teakorlando.com

Located in MetroWest just off campus, Teak Neighborhood Grill is a fantastic alternative to the less-than-stellar food served in the campus cafeteria. With a decent-sized menu focusing on burgers and sandwiches, this pub is a great place for lunch or dinner after class. The rotating list of craft beers on tap sure helps digest that two-hour calculus lecture.

Campus Lab The campus labs have course-specific software, writing assistance programs, research guides and more that you’ll find very useful when you’re finishing that last-minute assignment and you just need to find one last thing that’ll take it from being a B paper to an A. Check in here often.

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Your destinations are located: in the MetroWest area of Orlando and along International Drive

Silva’s Market Café 5920 Metropolis Way 407-615-3000 silvasmarket.net

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Places to meet new friends off campus

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hether you’re new to Orlando and need to make friends or you just want some new ones, these meet-ups are just the place to strike up a convo.

Nerd Nite Second Thursday of every month, various locations, orlando.nerdnite.com

We’re sure you’ve heard of pechakucha, that networking trend where people get together to watch short slideshow presentations on pretty much any topic people care to discuss. Well, Nerd Nite is sort of an offshoot of that – presenters get 15 minutes to talk about whatever thought-provoking issue they’d like, and then conduct a short Q&A session with the audience. The event usually takes place in a venue with drinks.

Chat up your fellow nerds after the talk.

Orlando City Soccer Club Tailgating Check game schedule for details, Orlando Citrus Bowl, 1610 W. Church St., ruckustilwedie.com

Join the Orlando City Soccer Club’s official supporter group, the Ruckus, at one of their tailgating events. There will be food, chants, drinking and drumming. Tailgate events are open to all, and they take place before every home game.

Orlando City Soccer Club Watch Parties at Harry Buffalo Orlando City Soccer Club game nights, Harry Buffalo, 129 W. Church St., 407-422-6656, harrybuffalo.com

A little less intense (but no less crowded) than the tailgates, the watch parties at OCSC’s official bar are full of chicks and dudes who bleed purple.

The Daily City Food Truck Bazaar Various locations in Central Florida, schedule available at thefoodtruckbazaar.com

Check the Daily City’s website for the schedule, but you can count on a gathering of more than 20 food trucks most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, where you can bond over mutual love of mobile meals.

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East End Market Classes East End Market, 3201 Corrine Drive, 321-236-3316, eastendmkt.com/events-classes

What could possibly solidify a friendship better than a shared love of good food, local beer or cold-brew coffee? East End Market’s classes and lectures bring together similar interests.

Wine & Beer Classes at Total Wine Colonialtown and Millenia locations, totalwine.com

For a couple of bucks you can learn about beer, wine and spirits – bolster your courage to tell that girl her shoes are super-cute.

Maybe coffee sometime?

There Will Be Words Second Tuesday of each month, 7-8 p.m., Gallery at Avalon Island, 39 S. Magnolia Ave., therewillbewords.com

For the literary set, this live reading series features local writers performing their poetry, short fiction and nonfiction at the Gallery at Avalon Island.

Cocktail Classes at the Courtesy Bar First and third Saturdays of each month, 5:45 p.m., The Courtesy Bar, 114 N. Orange Ave., 407-450-2041, thecourtesybar.com

Shake things up in a cocktail shaker and in your social life twice a month for $55, which covers materials for three full-sized DIY cocktails. (21 and up only.)

1st Thursdays at OMA First Thursday of each month, 6-9 p.m., Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave., 407-896-4231, omart.org

There’s a new theme each month for this mix-and-mingle event at Orlando Museum of Art, featuring local artists, cash bars, live music and food from local nosheries.

The Hive Meetings and venues announced on Facebook, facebook.com/thehiveideas

This monthly event focuses on finding local, sustainable solutions to challenges facing the world. Every month, the talk revolves around one of the so-called “five pillars” of sustainability: food, water, waste, energy and ecology. Are you a change-the-world type? Then you’ll probably dig the Hive.

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Eats and treats Dorm room must-have snacks

by C a r o l i n e F e r n a n D e z

I

n case you’re not a fan of dining hall food (wait, you don’t like mystery meat and sketchy vegetables?), stock up on these snacks that will get you through late-night study sessions, homesickness and, let’s be honest, hangovers.

Popcorn if you have approximately three minutes and a microwave, you’re guaranteed a snack to fill your stomach. you’ll also most definitely make at least five new friends when the smell of popcorn fills the hallway and hungry hallmates wander toward the smell.

Peanut butter Peanut butter will give you the protein you might miss by skipping that dining hall mystery meat. Plus, pair peanut butter with almost anything and that snack has just gotten 10 times better. Try peanut butter with apples, oreos, reos, bananas, nilla Wafers and pretzels.

Almonds add dd almonds to the list of healthy proteins.

They’re also said to boost immunity. Combine shared spaces with tons of people and the uncleanliness that comes with being in college, and you’re going to need as many things as possible to boost your immune system.

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Eats and treats Dorm room must-have snacks CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

Pretzels Make sure to have a bag of pretzels so you can dip them in your peanut butter for a quick power snack. if that’s not your thing, pretzels are still the perfect food to bring to a study session in the library or have for a late-night snack.

Protein bar you might be ambitious and have it in your head that you’re going to have a bountiful meal in the dining hall before your 8 a.m. class, but realreal ity will set in some days and you might not make it out of bed be before 7:50 a.m. When that happens, you can’t expect to start your day on an empty stomach, so have a stash of power bars to munch on as you powerwalk to class.

Saltines Whether it hap happens to be you or your friend down the hall, there will be a time when some food is needed to help cure a hangover. bland, salty and easy on Candy the stomach, Saltines For the days you’re are a good bet if you missing home, just failed want to settle your a test or feel like watching stomach. netflix on a gloomy rainy day, you’re going to need some sweets. i don’t care if you’re determined not to gain the Freshman 15, everyone needs some sweets every once in a while. So whether your comfort food is a chocolate bar, a bag of gummy worms or an entire package of Publix cookies (hey, don’t Honorable mentions: your favorite judge), make sure you have dry cereal, wasabi peas, bananas sugar stored somewhere (just don’t let them sit around for too in your abode. long!), coconut water, dried fruit 2015 ORLANDO 101 | COLLege SURVIVAL gUIDe ● 47

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Pita Pit 12140 Collegiate Way, 407-380-2333, pitapitusa.com

order when you’re in the mood for: any kind of pita sandwich. They have pitas filled with veggies, meat, black bean burgers, falafel, scrambled eggs … if you can stuff it in a pita, they probably have it on the menu.

South Philly Steaks 12094 Collegiate Way, 407-985-3805, southphillysteaksorlando.com

order when you’re in the mood for: footlong hot dogs, mozzarella sticks, fries and, of course, any kind of Philly cheesesteak you can conceive.

Deliverance Where to order food from when you’re not in the mood for pizza

By C a r o l i n e F e r n a n d e z

W

hen you think about calling for a pizza delivery for the fourth night in a row, your stomach might just jump out and stop you. But after you’ve pulled an all-nighter in the library (or the bar, hey, it’s your life), the last thing you probably want to do is get your butt out of bed to claim some noms from the dining hall. Here are some places that will deliver more than just a generic pizza. The furthest you’ll have to move is to your door, plus your stomach will thank you.

delivery to UCF-area locations:

Z Baked 3050 N. Alafaya Trail, 407-392-2260, zbaked.com

order when you’re in the mood for: burgers, subs, sandwiches, wings and tons of other munchies.

delivery to UCF, Full Sail University and rollins College areas: Doorstep Delivery orlando.doorstepdelivery.com

you have probably already heard of this service, which delivers nationwide, but did you know it was co-founded by a graduate of rollins College? William Moore graduated from rollins in 1999 and he helped launch this service, which delivers food from restaurants all over the region, in 2008. For a delivery fee (usually $3.99 to $6.99), doorstep will deliver anything from the menus of participating restaurants listed on its website.

Highlights include: Jersey Mike’s (subs), Friendly Confines (wings and pub grub), Whole Foods and more.

Bangkok Square 4066 N. Alafaya Trail, bangkoksquareorlando.com

Eat24

order when you’re in the mood for: dumplings, spring rolls, sushi and Thai food.

eat24hours.com

Insomnia Cookies 12101 University Blvd., Suite 225, 877-632-6654, insomniacookies.com

order when you’re in the mood for: a warm, melting cookie. or six. order with a side of milk for the perfect study snack.

a $6.99 base delivery charge will bring more than two dozen restaurants to your door, thanks to yelp’s service eat24. delivery minimum is $13.

Highlights include: Black Bean deli (Cuban cuisine), Tamarind (indian cuisine) and Powerhouse Café (salads, healthy wraps and smoothies).

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ed recently, so many locals lost their way to their truly unique racks, but it is certainly worth plotting your course to rediscover everything from jumpsuits to jewelry at the new location.

Etoile Boutique

Etoile Boutique 2424 E. Robinson St., 407-895-6363, etoileboutique.com

It was a gem in the Milk District before people even went to the Milk District, so it’s no shock their trendy vintage threads catch on just as quick with savvy-chic shoppers who don’t have time to thrift. Bonus: on-site tailoring and adjustments.

Orlando Vintage Clothing and Costumes 2117 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, 407-599-7225, orlandovintage.com

Some essential Orlando vintage stores

I

n a city that’s as mixed-and-matched as a thrifter’s closet, rooting out good vintage stores can be a challenge without a little guidance. From authentic garments dating back to the ’20s to unique bright fashions from the ’80s and ’90s, Orlando’s vintage stores quite literally have your back if you’re looking to stand out in tourist town. Here are the essentials.

Dechoes

PHOTO BY HANNAH gLOgOWeR

2110 Edgewater Drive, 407-648-7480; 2525 E. Colonial Drive, 407-894-6622; 5250 International Drive, dechoesresale.com

Dechoes isn’t specifically vintage so much as it is designer resale, but if you visit any of their locations you’re going to find a mix of older items as well as more modern pieces from designers like Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Zac Posen and more.

Déjà Vu Vintage Clothing and Accessories 1210 Michigan Ave., Winter Park, 407-838-3609

Celebrating 30 years in 2015 of timewarped treasure-hunting, Déjà Vu relocat-

Whether you’re looking for that perfect period piece to rent for a theme party or matchless outfits that demonstrate your distinct flair, Orlando Vintage houses a huge collection, from fur coats to sport coats.

The Owl’s Attic 4031 Forsyth Road, Winter Park, 321-300-6957, theowlzattic.com

Off the beaten path and frankly hard to find if you aren’t looking for it, this quaint shop with vintage and one-of-a-kind fashion is for those who enjoy the thrill of discovery.

It’s frequently less picked-over than stores closer to hip districts.

Postmarket Vintage 2906 Corrine Drive, 407-270-7729, etsy.com/shop/postmarketvintage

Previously only found at one-off events like Grandma Party Bazaar or on Etsy, the inspired attire lovingly picked by Postmarket Vintage can now be found at their brickand-mortar shop located in the Lovely.

Retromended 1231A N. Orange Ave., 407-674-8190, facebook.com/retromended

This little shop, tucked away off the main drag in Ivanhoe Village, is jam-packed full of hand-picked vintage items (as well as some more modern pieces) for both men and women. The prices are reasonable, and if you keep coming back, you’re bound to eventually stumble across a total bargain.

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Orlando indie venues 101

up early to grab a stool along the back wall and trade turns journeying to the front bar.

mproving your Orlando concert experience only takes a little familiarity with the venues, so here are some tips to get the most out of seeing shows at five of Orlando’s independent venues.

Sound is the biggest complaint folks have about the Beacham, so if you’re worried the mix will get lost in the big room, arrive early and plant yourself in front of the stage, where the sound mix seems to translate the best. If it’s a crowded show, you’ll be wedged there all night, though, so if you’re claustrophobic, upgrade to balcony, where visibility isn’t blocked by the floor bars or the swarm of people in front of the stage.

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PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHeR gARCIA

37 W. Pine St., 407-999-2570, backbooth.com

Visibility can be an issue at Backbooth if you get stuck by the front bar behind that barrier wall between the bar and the music room, but it’s an easy fix – just suck in your gut to wriggle past the wallflowers and stool-perchers along the back wall and break free to the other side. There, you get a clear view of the stage from anywhere and can easily access the crow’s nest lounge above the sound booth (be warned, though, it can get pretty hot up there). This is especially appealing when the back bar is open, but if drinking is your true priority, choose this path: Bring a friend and show

The Beacham 46 N. Orange Ave., 407-246-1419, thebeacham.com

The Social 54 N. Orange Ave., 407-246-1419, thesocial.org

The main issue people have with the Social is the drink prices, and the venue combats this with their early-bird drink specials – for the first hour of the show, it’s $3.50 calls.

That definitely helps. Getting there early has other advantages, allowing you to post up at the bar, at a table or at the lip of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 56

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stage. We prefer the visibility from the middle stairs, where you can nestle in along the rail, see over the heads (and swaying cellphones) of people in the pit and have easy access to the bar.

show environment typically trumps any door drama. General advice: Don’t be a dick. If it’s a packed show, you might want to wear your sturdiest shoes with decent traction, because between the sweat and the beer sloshed in your average Lou’s pit, that floor becomes a slippery slope.

Uncle Lou’s Entertainment Hall

Will’s Pub

1016 N. Mills Ave., 407-898-0009

The biggest intimidation factor of Lou’s for anyone who’s never gone is just getting through the door. Sometimes, it’s unclear who’s collecting admission (or if there even is an admission charge). If you don’t see someone in a chair on a mission, just walk in. Remember: It’s an informal venue, but the bands still need love. Someone will hit you up for the door charge if they’re collecting, or you can keep an eye out for when someone does appear. The friendly

1042 N. Mills Ave., willspub.org

Drinks are $1 cheaper before doors if you’ve got more time to spare than money. The music room is pretty easy to navigate, so you don’t necessarily have to get there early to get a prime spot in front of the stage.

But you don’t want to get stuck in that unspoken avenue between the sound guy and the crowd, a well-trod path between the music and the bar where you will get bumped and brushed against frequently.

Uncle Lou’s Entertainment Hall

PHOTO BY ASHLeY BeLANgeR

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Party planning

new favorite spot and end up staying there all night.

Strategies for successful clubbing in downtown Orlando

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rlando may not be known as a nightlife city on par with NYC or Miami – and believe us, anyone from those cities will talk your ear off about the differences – but our downtown clubs still attract hundreds of partygoers each week.

Follow some of these tips to spare some cash and headaches when planning a night out on Orange Avenue.

Get your wristband early: Some clubs, like Independent Bar or Latitudes, only charge a cover after a certain time, usually 11 p.m. or midnight. If you know where you want to end up, go there first, get your wristband, then try out some of the smaller or cheaper places in the area for conversation and pregaming. You might just find a

Kick off your night right: The main complaint people have about bigger clubs is high drink prices. If you’re looking to get wasted, but also want to make your rent payment this month, pay attention to drink specials at bars other than your final destination. Sacrificing an hour to knock back dollar beers at Chillers instead of $7 cocktails at Vain should be a no-brainer – it’s simple liquornomics.

Don’t drive – take a party bus: If you live on or close to campus, whether UCF, Rollins or Full Sail, getting to the clubs is a hike. And if you’re planning on drinking (shut up, we know you are), driving back is just a plain bad idea. Uber and Lyft may be cheap to take into downtown, but what about that 2:30 a.m. price surge that tends to happen on weekends? Take advantage of the several party bus services – Unforgettable Entertainment, Cast Party Bus, etc. – that

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transport students down Colonial Drive.

Some of the bus fares even include drink tickets or club cover charges.

Pay attention to social media: Check the Facebook and Twitter accounts of the desired club earlier in the day. Sometimes they’ll post offers for free drinks, guest list spots or other perks that save money. Vain offers free champagne for ladies in groups of five or more if you RSVP through their Facebook page, for example. Vain, Tier and Gilt are all worth adding to your follow list.

Bring cash: A good tip for life in general, you should always make sure you’re carrying a little cash with you, especially on a club night. Want to let the bartender know that you’re a good tipper in the hopes of getting prioritized service? Cash on the bar conveys that a lot faster than starting a tab. Feel like dipping with your new date? If you’ve been paying in cash, you don’t have

to wait to run your card. Someone in the bathroom offers to sell you party favors?

Drug dealers don’t take plastic.

Invest in a flask: Seriously. It used to be, if you wanted to save money, you would just stay home and stare out the window, wishing you were drunk with your friends. This is exactly why the flask was invented. If you want to save loot and socialize in a bar setting – while remaining slightly inebriated – nothing beats a flask. Plus, flasks just look super cool, especially tucked in those boss threads your sly budgeting affords.

Ubering home can be tricky: Hailing an Uber at last call is brutal. Everyone is drunk and roaming the streets with their phones, trying to mash their thumbs on the Uber app in a desperate attempt to get home.

Well, if you can manage it, try to beat the last call Uber crowd by hailing an Uber by 1:30 a.m. Also, make it easy for the Uber driver to find you by moving your pick-up location to an obvious intersection.

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ORLANDO

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1490 E Buena Vista Dr.

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Drink Around the Hood

Daily planner

Drink Around the Hood Third Wednesday of every month, various venues, Ivanhoe Village, drinkaroundthehood.com

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rom trivia nights to open mics to club nights, there’s something to do every night of the week in Orlando.

Looking for more? Check our website at orlandoweekly.com for tons more drinking, nightlife, parties and events.

Ladies Night Knights Pub, 3910 Alafaya Trail, knightspuborlando.com

Free cover for ladies until 10:30 p.m. Free drinks until midnight.

MONDAY

Rock Band Jam Night

All You Can Bowl Night

Bring your own guitar, drum kit or keys and jam out with your fellow Rock Band aficionados.

The Haven, 6700 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, thehavenrocks.com

Boardwalk Bowl Entertainment Center, 10749 E. Colonial Drive, alomabowlingcenters.com PHOTO BY RYAN gLAZe

Every month Orlando Weekly hosts this neighborhood pub crawl/meet-up. Buy a ticket for $10 and sample cocktails at different businesses, bars and restaurants.

For $10 per person, bowl as many games as you want from 8 p.m. to close.

TUESDAY

Curtis Earth Trivia

$2 Tuesday Knights Pub, 3910 N. Alafaya Trail, knightspuborlando.com

Graffiti Junktion, 900 E. Washington St., graffitijunktion.com

Starting at 7 p.m., Curtis Earth hosts a trivia night that Orlando Weekly readers named the Best of Orlando for 2014.

Pay your $2 cover and get $2 pitchers of beer, shots and more.

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Diverse Word Dandelion Communitea Café, 618 N. Thornton Ave., dandelioncommunitea.com

Spoken-word open mic in a charming vegetarian teahouse.

mic for both poetry and spoken word, held in a hip Winter Park coffeehouse not far from the Rollins College campus.

Spacebar Comedy Showcase Spacebar, 2428 E. Robinson St., facebook.com/spacebarcomedy

Geek Trivia

Free entry with two-drink minimum purchase at this indie comedy night, which starts at 10 p.m.

The Geek Easy, 114 S. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park, mygeekeasy.com

Wednesday Night Pitcher Show

Win bar tabs and comic books by flexing your knowledge muscle.

Grits and Gravy Independent Bar (I-Bar), 70 N. Orange Ave., facebook/independentbarorlando

Old-school rock and Motown soul set the backdrop for a dance night that features $2.50 PBRs and well whiskey all night long.

Tasty Tuesdays The Milk District, East Robinson Street and North Bumby Avenue, facebook.com/tastytuesdaysorlando

A rotating lineup of local food trucks brings a crowd every Tuesday for this pop-up street party.

Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, enzian.org

Get a pitcher of beer from the bar and watch a free movie on the lawn of the Orlando area’s only indie art-house theater.

Movies begin at 8 p.m., but if you get there early, you might be able to catch a round of Jell-O shot trivia.

THURSDAY Burger and Beer Night Friendly Confines, 3088 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, myfriendlyconfines.com

$4.99 gets you a half-pound burger and a domestic draft until 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

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Liquor Pitcher Wednesdays Knight Library, 11448 University Blvd., knightlibrary.com

Independent Bar

Free liquor pitchers and free drafts until midnight. Make sure you don’t have class the next morning. You won’t make it.

Mac and Cheese Independent Bar, 70 N. Orange Ave., facebook/independentbarorlando

A dance night full of guilty pleasures, sometimes with special performances from onehit wonders.

Chillers, Big Belly and Latitudes, 33 W. Church St., churchstbars.com

Starting at 7:30 p.m., frozen drinks, mixed drinks and domestic bottles are just a buck.

Open Mic Poetry and Spoken Word Austin’s Coffee, 929 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, austinscoffee.com

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SATURDAY Korndogg’s Karaoke Wall Street Cantina, Wall Street Plaza, 25 Wall St., wallstplaza.com

With more than 11,000 songs to choose from, music videos and more, this is one of downtown’s best karaoke nights.

Midnight Mass Backbooth, 37 W. Pine St., backbooth.com

From midnight until 2 a.m., DJs spin pop, rock and Motown while you confess your sins to the patient bartenders.

Saturday Night Block Party

Jack’s Open Mic Comedy Night

Wall Street Plaza, 25 Wall St., wallstplaza.com

Jack’s Pub & Grub, 5494 Central Florida Parkway

Open mic comedy in a charmingly divey I-Drive pub, hosted by Myke Herlihy.

Talk Yo Shit Presents the Shit House

Wall Street Plaza is known for its weekend block parties. Wander the plaza, drink in hand, and take advantage of $4 Fireball shots and all six plaza bars. No cover.

Shit Sandwich Comedy Showcase

The Patio, 14 W. Washington St., thepatioorlando.com

Dance night steered and swerved by DJ Fiona Trapple with 2-4-1 drinks for ladies.

First and third Saturdays at Bull and Bush, 2408 E. Robinson St., bullandbushorlando.com

Popular and free stand-up comedy showcase, which features legit local comedians.

Single Saturdays

FRIDAY

Knight Library, 11448 University Blvd., knightlibrary.com

3-4-1 Happy Hour Big Belly, Chillers and Latitudes, 33 W. Church St., churchstbars.com

Yes, you read that right: three drinks for the price of one from 4-9 p.m. Get your weekend started.

$1 shots, $1 bottled beer and free drafts until midnight. No matter how broke you are, you can surely afford this night.

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Footloose ’80s Backbooth, 37 W. Pine St., backbooth.com

Party like it’s 1989 with this throwback night featuring videos from the ’80s.

Backbooth

$5 Fridays Knight Library, 11448 University Blvd., knightlibrary.com

You pay a $5 cover and get free drafts and $1 shots until midnight.

Friday Night Block Party PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHeR gARCIA

Wall Street Plaza, 25 Wall St., wallstplaza.com

Wall Street Plaza is known for its weekend block parties. Wander the plaza, drink in hand, and take advantage of $4 Fireball shots and all six plaza bars. No cover.

Nerdy Karaoke The Geek Easy, 114 S. Semoran Blvd.,Winter Park, mygeekeasy.com

Karaoke in the Geek Easy, a lounge/bar connected to one of Orlando’s most popular comic shops, A Comic Shop.

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Barrio Sundays and Tropical Sundays

DON’T MISS THESE RECURRING NIGHTS, EITHER!

The Beacham and the Social, 46 N. Orange Ave., thebeacham.com

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SUNDAY

All you can drink for one cover fee ($13-$15; 21 and up). Top 40 and Latin hip-hop music spun by DJs in the Social and salsa, bachata and merengue in the Beacham.

Copper Rocket Comedy Jam The Copper Rocket Pub, 106 Lake Ave., Maitland, copperrocketpub.com

Comedy open mic hosted by Heather Shaw.

Orlando Farmers Market 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sundays at Lake Eola Park, corner of East Central Boulevard and North Eola Drive

Part farmers market, part reason to daydrink. The beer and wine garden opens at noon, and it usually features live acoustic music.

Shake ’n’ Bass Sundays at Backbooth, 37 W. Pine St., facebook.com/shakenbass

DJs spin tropical bass and drive the crowd crazy. Resident DJ Big Makk experiments with new music to see how his more inventive mixes shake out in the club.

Orlando Farmers Market

Various locations, once per month, bodytalkparty.org

This monthly dance party tries to re-create the house party feel in a nontraditional venue.

Orlando Pub Crawls Meet at various bars in downtown Orlando, orlandopubcrawls.com

The Orlando Pub Crawl organization sponsors a tour of downtown bars with a twist – think Crazy ’80s Pub Crawls, the Good vs. Evil Pub Crawl, the Get Lai’d Luau Pub Crawl and more. Check the website for upcoming crawls.

There Will Be Words Second Tuesday of every month, Gallery at Avalon Island, 39 S. Magnolia St., therewillbewords.com

A showcase of some of the best writers in the state.

Third Thursday Gallery Hop Third Thursday of every month, downtown Orlando, 3rdthu.com

Part art-gallery hop, part tech meet-up, part foodie tour of downtown, this monthly celebration is the perfect (free!) reason to get out of your dorm or apartment and explore the city.

PHOTO BY HANNAH gLOgOWeR

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ll year long, Orlando hosts street parties, festivals and events you don’t want to miss. Here are some of the essentials you should know about – dates for many of these events have yet to be announced, so check our online calendar at orlandoweekly.com for more info.

August

Sept. 26, Loch Haven Park, 777 E. Princeton St., artlando.com

A day in the park that features all kinds of art, from choirs to puppets to painting to dance and everything in between.

October Come Out With Pride Oct. 5-11, multiple locations, comeoutwithpride.com

A week of LGBT events and our favorite downtown parade party.

Pegasus Palooza Aug. 22-29, various venues on the UCF campus, palooza.sdes.ucf.edu

This back-to-school event is UCF’s official welcome back party for students, and it features scavenger hunts, open houses, themed parties, comedy nights, concerts and more.

PHOTO BY RYAN gLAZe

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Orlando Zombie Ball Oct. 24, Venue 578, 578 N. Orange Ave., 407-377-0400, orlandozombieball.com

All the Halloweenies come out to this massive costume party, which features a costume contest, a live DJ, prizes and a horrifically good time.

September

November

Halloween Horror Nights

Winter Park Harvest Festival

Sept. 18-Nov. 1, Universal Studios, 6000 Universal Blvd., halloweenhorrornights.com

More than a month of special haunted houses and scare zones. Bring your heart medication.

November 2015 (dates TBA), Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park, alocalfolkus.com/wphf

A festival that focuses on local agriculture and sustainable harvests.

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Florida Blue Florida Classic November 2015 (date TBA), Orlando Citrus Bowl, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, floridaclassic.org

Annual football game between Bethune Cookman University and Florida A&M.

January Zora! Festival January 2016 (date TBA), Downtown Eatonville, Kennedy Boulevard, Eatonville, zorafestival.org

December

Eatonville’s most famous writer gets a festival in her honor every year featuring live music, arts and educational activities.

Christmas in the Park

Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl

December 2015 (date TBA), Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park, morsemuseum.org

The Morse Museum decorates Central Park with stained glass windows and the Bach Festival Choir performs a Christmas concert, drawing a festive crowd.

Grandma Party Bazaar Mid-December 2015 (date TBA), Stardust Video & Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Road, stardustie.com

Handmade crafts from local artisans and live music from local bands make this our favorite stop for holiday shopping.

Jan. 1, 2016, Orlando Citrus Bowl, 1 Citrus Bowl Place, buffalowildwingscitrusbowl.com

The Citrus Bowl plays host to one of the BCS games every New Year’s Day.

February Puppy Love Feb. 2016 (date TBA), The Acre, 4421 Edgewater Drive, 407-377-0400, puppylovefestival.com

Our tribute to man’s best friend has treats and games, live music and all the butt your pooch can sniff.

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April 2016 (dates TBA), downtown Orlando, multiple venues, floridamusicfestival.com

A downtown music festival geared toward artists looking to break into the major-label industry.

Lunar New Year Dragon Parade February 2016 (date TBA), Orlando Fashion Square Mall, 3201 E. Colonial Drive, centralfloridadragonparade.com

Formerly located in the Mills 50 neighborhood, this Lunar New Year celebration got so big that it had to move to the Fashion Square Mall in 2015.

Fiesta in the Park April 2016 (date TBA), Lake Eola Park, North Eola Drive and East Washington Street, fiestainthepark.com

March

Wander around Lake Eola and check out food, live music, and arts and crafts from tons of vendors.

Great Orlando Mixer

UCF Book Festival

March 2016 (date TBA), Cheyenne Saloon, 128 W. Church St., 407-377-0400, thegreatorlandomixer.com

The swinging-est party in town, featuring 1920s-themed costumes and music, and drinks from the best mixologists in Orlando. It’s the bee’s knees!

April 2016 (date TBA), Education Complex, UCF Teaching Academy, 4000 Central Florida Blvd., education.ucf.edu/bookfest/index.cfm

This free celebration of reading and writing features book signings, talks with authors, writing lectures and more.

May

April

Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

Florida Film Festival April 2016 (dates TBA), Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland, floridafilmfestival.com

May 2016 (date TBA), Loch Haven Park, 777 E. Princeton St., orlandofringe.org

Whether you’re a fan of dramas, comedies, documentaries or animated films, the Florida Film Festival has it all.

Thespians from all over the world descend on the theater complex at Loch Haven Park for two weeks of performances.

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PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHeR gARCIA

Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival

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June Gay Days June 2016 (dates TBA), multiple locations, gaydays.com

Organized trips to Walt Disney World Resort during the day, themed parties every night.

July Fireworks at the Fountain July 4, 2016, Lake Eola Park, North Eola Drive and East Robinson Street, cityoforlando.net

Nothing says patriotism like the “oohs” and “ahhs” elicited by the choreographed firework and light show at Lake Eola each year.

Orlando Weekly Best of Orlando Party

Bite30 June 2016, multiple locations, bite30.com

A monthlong celebration of the best food Central Florida has to offer, with special prix fixe menus at each participating restaurant.

July 2016 (date TBA), The Beacham, 46 N. Orange Ave., orlandoweekly.com

Annual party in honor of our Best of Orlando winners. If you snag a ticket to this exclusive party, congratulations: We like you.

Orlando Weekly Best of Orlando Party

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