The Osceola Daily News for Friday December 28, 2025

Saturday December 28, 2025

‘Keeping the Dream Alive’: Kissimmee Hosts Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration January 17

The City of Kissimmee will bring the community together in celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration, set for Friday, January 17, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Veterans Lawn.

Around Osceola

Run for the Cherubs 5K Returns to St. Cloud Feb 7

Universal Orlando's Mardi Gras Returns in February

Orlando Health St. Cloud Celebrates We Build Intern

KUA to Host Free Outdoor Movie Friday January 9

Surfing Santas Take Over Cocoa Beach Christmas Eve

Old Florida Riverboat to Host New Year’s Eve

Seven Seas Food Festival Returns to SeaWorld

Disney Unveils Exciting Attractions, Events in 2026

Chamber of Commerce to Host Three Kings Day

NEWS

‘Keeping the Dream Alive’: Kissimmee Hosts Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration January 17

The City of Kissimmee will bring the community together in celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration, set for Friday, January 17, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Veterans Lawn.

The family-friendly event is designed to honor Dr. King’s enduring message of unity, diversity, and compassion, while inspiring attendees to continue his vision of service and equality. Through live music, spoken word, and cultural performances, the celebration aims to “Keep the Dream Alive” by highlighting the power of community connection.

The Unity Celebration will be hosted by Tyesha Williams and will feature performances from members of Full Sail University Black Student Union, including Ayira Baptise, known as “YIRI,” and Dyvine Phoenix (Erica Gray). Their performances will reflect themes of empowerment, reflection, and hope that align with Dr. King’s legacy.

The event is supported by community-focused sponsors, including Experience Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, and Toho Water Authority. Community partners such as the Osceola NAACP, the Black Empowerment Coalition, and Full Sail University’s Black Student Union will also take part in the program.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44K0HVq

NEWS

Old Florida Riverboat Company to Host New Year’s Eve ‘Old Florida Gala’ Aboard the Lillie in St. Cloud

Residents and visitors looking to ring in the new year with timeless elegance will have a unique opportunity on December 31st as Old Florida Riverboat Company hosts its inaugural New Year’s Eve Old Florida Gala aboard the historic riverboat Lillie.

The formal celebration is set for Wednesday, December 31, from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., offering guests a memorable way to welcome the new year surrounded by classic riverboat charm, glowing lights, and waterfront views.

According to organizers, the exclusive event is expected to sell out quickly.

Guests will enjoy live music from local favorite Slickwood, along with delicious hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight as the clock strikes twelve.

The evening is designed to evoke the spirit of “Old Florida,” blending elegance, celebration, and nostalgia into one unforgettable experience on the water.

“New Year’s Eve aboard the Lillie is meant to be an affair to remember,” organizers shared, noting that the event will combine sparkling ambiance with the riverboat’s timeless atmosphere as guests celebrate the arrival of the new year.

Formal attire is encouraged for the gala. Arrival begins at 9 p.m., with departure promptly at 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are priced at $100 per person, and availability is limited.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4qunVHz

Lighten the Load.

We’re Here.

Care for All Emergencies.

We know emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. With ER locations throughout Central Florida, we’re ready to provide care in any emergency. You’ll find a place where chaos meets calm, and uncertainty finds answers. OrlandoHealth.com/ER

NEWS

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Celebrates First WE BUILD Intern Graduate, Welcomes Marco Vivas as Team Member

The cafeteria at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital was filled with applause, pride, and heartfelt emotion last week as hospital staff, leadership, and family gathered to celebrate a meaningful milestone — the graduation of Marco Vivas, the hospital’s first graduate of the Orlando Health WE BUILD Program.

Positively Osceola was on scene as the hospital community came together to honor Marco’s completion of the 12-week paid internship program, which is designed to create pathways to employment for individuals with unique developmental and learning abilities. The celebration brought together dozens of staff members, the hospital’s President and CEO Brian Wetzel, and Marco’s mother, who proudly watched as her son was recognized for his hard work and growth.

Throughout his time in the WE BUILD program, Marco worked alongside the hospital’s Environmental Services and Food & Nutrition teams, gaining hands-on experience while developing both job-specific and interpersonal skills. His journey through the program showcased what is possible when opportunity is paired with mentorship, encouragement, and a supportive workplace culture.recognizing Marco’s accomplishments and progress.

During the celebration, the Orlando Health team — often described by staff as a family — surprised Marco with a cake decorated with one of his favorite themes, Spider-Man.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4jr7Lwf

NEWS

Osceola Chamber Passes the Gavel, Announces 2026 Leadership

The Osceola Chamber officially marked a leadership transition as 2025 Chairman Tim Weisheyer passed the gavel to Rebekah Hurd, who will serve as the Chamber’s 2026 Chairwoman.

The ceremonial moment took place Thursday, December 18, during the Chamber’s final monthly board meeting of 2025 in Kissimmee. Hurd will formally assume the role on January 1, 2026, and the transition will be celebrated again during the Chamber’s 101st Annual Meeting on February 7, 2026, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

The Osceola Chamber’s mission is to be “champions for business and the Osceola community,” serving as a trusted partner to businesses of all sizes, advocating at the local and state levels, and creating meaningful opportunities for community engagement. In 2025 alone, volunteers and partners contributed nearly 4,000 hours of service through the Chamber’s various programs and initiatives.

John Newstreet, President and CEO of the Osceola Chamber, praised both leaders for their impact and commitment.

“We are extremely grateful for the advancement that transpired under Tim’s leadership and look forward to the great things we will accomplish during Rebekah’s time at the helm,” Newstreet said. “With leaders like Tim and Rebekah, the Chamber builds deeper relationships that result in trust."

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NEWS

New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Drone Shows & Parties to Light Up Central Florida and Around Osceola County

As 2025 winds down, communities in and around Osceola County and Central Florida are preparing for a night of dazzling fireworks, high-tech drone shows, live music, and festive countdowns across the region. From world-class theme parks to local celebrations rooted in community spirit, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as 2026 approaches.

SeaWorld Orlando: Midnight Fireworks Over the Lagoon SeaWorld Orlando will close out the year with a midnight fireworks display over its central lagoon, highlighting its holiday entertainment lineup and creating a memorable send-off to 2025. Guests can enjoy extended park hours and seasonal shows before gathering for the nighttime countdown.

Walt Disney World Resort: Multi-Park Fireworks Celebrations Walt Disney World will host special New Year’s Eve fireworks across its parks: At Magic Kingdom, multiple fireworks showings — including a midnight fireworks spectacular — help usher in 2026 with iconic Disney flair.

At EPCOT, guests can enjoy extended hours, music around World Showcase, and a nighttime fireworks display over the lagoon as the clock strikes midnight.

Universal Orlando Resort will ring in New Year’s Eve with live music, DJs, themed party zones, and entertainment throughout Universal Studios

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48UREn4

NEWS

5th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K Returns to St. Cloud February 7, Honoring Love, Life, and Community

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — More than a race, the 5th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K is a powerful expression of love, remembrance, and community compassion as it returns to Lakefront Park & Marina on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

Hosted by the Graham J. Cowan Foundation, the annual event brings together runners, walkers, families, and supporters from across Central Florida for a morning that honors tiny lives, supports grieving families, and helps improve care for the most vulnerable newborns.

At the heart of the Run for the Cherubs is the story of Graham John Cowan, whose brief life inspired a mission that continues to touch countless families. Graham was stillborn at 21 weeks in 2016, a loss that forever changed his family’s lives. In the midst of grief, his parents chose to transform that pain into purpose—creating the Graham J. Cowan Foundation to ensure no family facing infant loss walks alone.

What began as a way to honor their son has grown into a movement of compassion, focused on supporting bereaved families, sharing resources, and raising awareness about infant loss while also strengthening neonatal care.

Through community events like the Run for the Cherubs, the Foundation keeps Graham’s memory alive by helping others heal.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44LHjaE

NEWS

Record-Breaking Turnout for Surfing Santas, Sponsored by Orlando Health, as Thousands Take Over Cocoa Beach Thousands of holiday revelers packed the shoreline of Cocoa Beach on Christmas Eve as the iconic Surfing Santas celebration, presented by Orlando Health, returned with its largest turnout ever, transforming Florida’s Space Coast into a sea of red suits, surfboards, and holiday cheer.

Organizers reported more than 14,000 spectators gathered to watch over 400 surfers, dressed as Santa Claus and other festive characters, ride consistent 3- to 4-foot Atlantic waves under sunny skies and warm temperatures. The annual event, now in its 17th year, has grown from a small local tradition into an internationally recognized holiday spectacle celebrating surf culture, community, and the spirit of the season.

The 2025 event marked the second consecutive year Orlando Health served as title sponsor, and their support was impossible to miss. From team members and branding to interactive engagement throughout the beach, Orlando Health was actively involved in the event, supporting surfers, families, and spectators from start to finish.

Beyond the waves, the celebration featured costume contests, dance-offs, live entertainment, and even skydiving Santas descending onto the beach, adding to the high-energy atmosphere that has made Surfing Santas a must-see holiday experience.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4baX2nr

NEWS

Osceola County Officially Launches OLLie, Its New Mobile Library Bringing Books, Wi-Fi, and Learning to Local

Osceola County, led by Commissioner Viviana Janer for District 2, library staff, and community members gathered Tuesday morning at Osceola Library’s Buenaventura Lakes branch for the official unveiling of OLLie, the library’s new mobile library unit designed to bring books, technology, and library services directly into neighborhoods across the county.

Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer, representing District 2, described OLLie as “a library on the move”—a flexible, modern option that will help the county reach residents who don’t live near a branch.

“By bringing story time, tech help, Wi-Fi, materials for checkout, and library resources right to the residents’ doorsteps, we are ensuring everyone has access to learning and connection,” Janer said. “We don’t want to leave anybody out in Osceola County.”

Coming in at a cost of about $140,000, the new mobile unit is outfitted with features designed to support families, students, and seniors. OLLie includes solarpowered energy, an onboard generator, an exterior awning and TV for outdoor games, books, toys and materials for all ages. Inside, residents will find five Chromebooks for tech tutoring, Wi-Fi hotspots capable of supporting up to 100 devices, and on-site printing, and more.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3MpmlI8

LEGAL NEWS Draper Law: Which vehicles are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents?

Sadly, serious and fatal accidents take place on a daily basis in Central Florida.

These crashes can happen in a number of ways and can be caused by not following traffic laws, inexperience, intoxication, distracted driving, fatigue, and medical issues.

Statistics show that fatal car accidents can often occur based on the type of vehicle. You may think that sports cars are most likely to be in crashes due to their speed and performance. However, according to the NHTSA, it’s the everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roadways that are involved more frequently in serious or even deadly accidents, with sedans and pickup trucks accounting for more than three-quarters of fatal accidents. If you drive out on the roadways, here’s what you

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NEWS

KUA to Host Free Outdoor Movie Night at Kissimmee Lakefront Park Friday, January 9

Families across Osceola County are invited to enjoy a free movie night under the stars as Kissimmee Utility Authority hosts an outdoor screening of How to Train Your Dragon on Friday, January 9, at Kissimmee Lakefront Park.

The evening of family-friendly fun begins at 5:30 p.m. with a variety of free activities, including popcorn, inflatable games, creative crafts, and a photo booth.

Guests will also have the opportunity to enter prize giveaways for a chance to win special surprises throughout the night.

At 7 p.m., the main event takes center stage as the beloved animated film lights up a massive 50-foot outdoor screen.

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to get comfortable while watching the story of Hiccup, Toothless, and their friends—a tale of friendship, courage, and adventure that continues to delight audiences of all ages.

Admission to the event is free, and the movie night is open to the entire community. The event is proudly presented by Kissimmee Utility Authority in partnership with the City of Kissimmee.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4qwuA48

NEWS

Promenade at Sunset Walk to Ring in 2026 with Free ‘Rocking New Year’ Concert, Street Party, and Midnight Fireworks

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Central Florida is set to welcome the new year in a big way as Promenade at Sunset Walk hosts its annual Rocking New Year 2026 celebration, a FREE concert and street party highlighted by live music, high-energy entertainment, and a midnight fireworks spectacular.

According to event organizers, the all-ages celebration will transform the Promenade into a vibrant New Year’s Eve destination featuring a full evening of live performances and immersive entertainment. The event will be hosted by Scotty B and includes co-starring performances by Pandora’s Box, a nationally recognized tribute to Aerosmith, and Project: DJ Slam, bringing a mix of rock anthems and dance-party energy to the streets.

In addition to the live music lineup, guests can enjoy LED street performers, laser light displays, and a countdown to midnight capped by a large-scale fireworks show lighting up the night sky as 2026 officially begins.

Admission and parking for Rocking New Year 2026 are completely free, making it one of Central Florida’s most accessible New Year’s Eve celebrations. Attendees will also have access to more than 20 restaurants, bars, and specialty shops throughout the Promenade, offering plenty of dining and entertainment options throughout the evening.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4qvp5m9

NEWS

Osceola Chamber of Commerce to Host Annual Three Kings Day Celebration at Old Town on Sunday January 11 An iconic Osceola County tradition returns in January as the Osceola Chamber’s annual Three Kings Day celebration takes over Old Town in Kissimmee on Sunday, January 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Now in its nearly 20th year, the family-friendly event is free to attend, includes free parking, and is open to the entire community—bringing a day of generosity, celebration, and community spirit to the heart of Kissimmee.

The chamber’s Three Kings Day is designed to celebrate kindness, tradition, and giving—ensuring children and families can enjoy a memorable experience together, presented by AdventHealth, A Day Filled with Fun, Food, and Festivities Families attending the event can look forward to a wide variety of free activities and giveaways throughout the day. Highlights include: Attendeed can meet three real camels, offering a magical Three Kings experience at the AdventHealth booth Free hot dogs, sponsored by Florida Technical College, with grilling provided by the Knights of Columbus. The Three Kings photobooth is sponsored by Kissimmee Utility Authority. Popcorn, snow cones, snacks, and other treats available while supplies last.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4qvp5m9

Park Hopping

Seven Seas Food Festival Brings Oceans of Global Flavors Back to SeaWorld Orlando in 2026

Get ready to embark on a culinary voyage like no other at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival, returning from late January through early May 2026.

Whether you’re a devoted foodie or simply looking for family-friendly fun, this open-air festival delivers an unforgettable experience with more than 200 unique food and beverage offerings designed to satisfy every palate.

Guests can sample flavors from over 50 global cuisine selections, paired perfectly with 75 wines and cocktails and 75 craft beers from around the world. From savory bites to indulgent desserts, the festival invites visitors to explore international tastes while enjoying refreshing drinks and the vibrant atmosphere that defines SeaWorld’s signature seasonal events.

Live entertainment fuels the festival atmosphere throughout the season, featuring performances across rock, country, Latin, and nostalgic ’90s throwback favorites.

Special themed celebrations — including Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo — add even more excitement on select dates.

Beyond the food, the Seven Seas Food Festival pairs perfectly with SeaWorld Orlando’s thrilling roller coasters and up-close animal encounters, creating a fullday adventure for guests of all ages. With world-class cuisine, live music, and iconic attractions, the festival remains one of SeaWorld Orlando’s most anticipated events.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4hNmSiP

Park Hopping

Walt Disney World Unveils Exciting Lineup of Attractions, Events and Experiences for 2026

Walt Disney World Resort is preparing for an exciting year ahead, announcing a wide range of new attractions, refreshed experiences, live entertainment, and returning seasonal events set to debut throughout 2026.

The newly released details outline a full calendar of offerings designed to appeal to families, thrill-seekers, and longtime Disney fans, with enhancements planned across all four theme parks and beyond.

New and Updated Attractions Early 2026 will bring updates to EPCOT’s popular Frozen Ever After, featuring enhanced Audio-Animatronics for Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff that offer smoother movement and more expressive details.

At Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is scheduled to reopen following an extensive refurbishment, while Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will debut refreshed ride vehicles and upgraded interactive features, improving gameplay and guest engagement.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will see several notable additions, including Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, a reimagined version of the fan-favorite attraction that places the beloved Muppets at the center of the high-speed adventure.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3MSTEni

Park Hopping

Your Wildest Car Ride Yet: Discover Animals from Around the World Right Here in Osceola County

With the school year back in full swing and education once again at the heart of our communities, there’s no better time to turn learning into an unforgettable, upclose adventure—and you don’t even need to leave your car to do it!

Located in the heart of Osceola County, just a short drive from Orlando, Wild Florida’s Drive-thru Safari Park offers families and animal lovers the rare opportunity to explore 170 acres of pristine Florida wilderness while encountering more than 150 exotic and native animals from across the globe.

From the safety and comfort of your own vehicle, you’ll cruise a four-mile trail and come face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more.

It’s a self-guided journey that feels like starring in your own wildlife documentary—without ever boarding a plane.

Insider Tip: Your admission includes unlimited loops through the safari on the same day, so take your time and enjoy every wild encounter. (Note: Convertibles, motorcycles, and vehicles without doors or roofs aren’t permitted for safety reasons.)

But the adventure doesn’t stop there.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4mnDsY7

Park Hopping

Universal Orlando to Celebrate Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval in 2026

Universal Orlando Resort is bringing the spirit of New Orleans back to Central Florida as Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval returns to Universal Studios Florida in 2026, delivering weeks of festive parades, global cuisine, and live entertainment.

The annual celebration will run from February 7 through April 4, 2026, transforming the theme park into a vibrant, bead-filled celebration inspired by the traditions of Mardi Gras and Carnaval celebrations from around the world.

Nightly Parades & Street Festivities At the heart of the event is Universal’s nightly Mardi Gras parade, featuring elaborate floats, energetic street performers, and thousands of colorful beads tossed to cheering guests. The parade winds through Universal Studios Florida, creating a lively, immersive experience filled with music, dancing, and Mardi Gras flair.

International Flavors & New Orleans Favorites Food lovers can enjoy a wide selection of Carnaval-inspired food and beverages, with kiosks serving dishes representing cultures from around the globe. Guests can also indulge in classic New Orleans favorites such as beignets, gumbo, jambalaya, and other Cajun- and Creole-inspired offerings.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48XIMx8

Lighten the Load.

We’re Here.

Care for All Emergencies.

We know emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. With ER locations throughout Central Florida, we’re ready to provide care in any emergency. You’ll find a place where chaos meets calm, and uncertainty finds answers. OrlandoHealth.com/ER 2906 17th St. | St. Cloud, FL 34769