The Osceola Daily News for Friday October 31, 2025
Step Back in Time at Osceola History’s 33rd Annual
Pioneer Day, Saturday, November 8
Osceola History invites the community to celebrate the spirit and stories of Florida’s earliest settlers during the 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, taking place Saturday, November 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek, located at 2491 Babb Road in Kissimmee.
Around Osceola
Orlando Health St. Cloud Goes Pink for Awareness
Osceola Arts Expands its ARTisNOW Mural Project
Magic of Christmas Returns to Downtown St. Cloud
World Food Trucks Flips the Switch on Major Solar
Bulldogs Dominate OBC Golf OBCs, Boys Break Records
Old Town to Celebrate Muscle Car Show 14th Anniversary
Osceola Clerk to Host Halloween Group Wedding
SeaWorld to Honor U.S. Vets and Active Service Members
Lady Kowboys Power Past Jupiter in Straight Sets
KUA’s Movie in the Park Brings Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” to Kissimmee Lakefront Park November 7
Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) is inviting the community to experience a fun-filled evening under the stars at Kissimmee Lakefront Park on Friday, November 7, for a free outdoor showing of Disney’s beloved animated classic Lilo & Stitch.
The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with family-friendly activities including free popcorn, inflatable games, creative craft stations, and a photo booth.
Guests can also enter prize giveaways for a chance to win exciting rewards before the movie begins.
Then, as the sun sets, families can spread out their blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy Lilo & Stitch on KUA’s giant 50-foot outdoor screen starting at 7 p.m.
The film follows the unforgettable adventures of Lilo, a spirited young Hawaiian girl, and her mischievous alien friend Stitch — a story filled with laughter, heart, and the power of ‘ohana.
The event is free and open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to bring their loved ones and a little aloha spirit for a magical night of community and fun.
This special Movie in the Park event is proudly presented by KUA in partnership with the City of Kissimmee.
“Til Death Do Us Part”: Osceola Clerk to Host Annual Halloween
Wedding Ceremony on October 31
In a spine-chilling yet heartwarming celebration of love, couples are once again invited to say “I do to their boo” at the Historic Osceola County Courthouse on Thursday, October 31, 2025, at 10 a.m. Hosted by Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq., the Historic Osceola County Courthouse in Kissimmee will transform into a whimsically eerie wedding venue for the annual Halloween Group Wedding Ceremony and Reception.
Couples can reserve their place for this one-of-a-kind event, where the courthouse is adorned with cobwebs, pumpkins, and gothic floral arrangements of black and purple roses. The setting combines romance and spooky charm, creating the perfect backdrop for a wedding day that is anything but traditional.
The group ceremony will be officiated in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for all who wish to participate. Following the vows, newlyweds and guests can enjoy a reception filled with Halloween-themed treats — from “horrifyingly delicious” cupcakes to festive music that adds a magical touch to the celebration. In past ceremonies, couples have exchanged vows, renewed commitments, and embraced the holiday’s playful spirit in a way that makes the day unforgettable. Halloween’s nostalgic connection to cherished childhood memories and its festive energy make it an ideal date for couples seeking a unique, nonconventional way to
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and St. Cloud Fire Rescue Team Up for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
In a powerful show of support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital is sponsoring the pink wrapping of multiple St. Cloud Fire Rescue emergency vehicles to spread awareness about the importance of early detection and regular screenings.
“By wrapping these vehicles in pink, we’re sharing a powerful reminder that early detection saves lives,” said Brian Wetzel, president of Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “Every time these vehicles are seen in our community, we hope it inspires someone to schedule their mammogram, perform a self-exam, or remind a loved one to get screened.”
The pink emergency vehicles will display the Orlando Health Cancer Institute logo, representing the hospital’s ongoing commitment to advanced cancer care. The institute’s St. Cloud location, housed within the Orlando Health Medical Pavilion – St. Cloud, provides comprehensive services through six exam rooms, two consultation rooms, and 12 infusion bays.
Recently joining the team, Dr. Sara Ardila, a breast surgical oncologist at Orlando Health Cancer Institute – St. Cloud, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of both benign and malignant breast diseases.
Osceola School District to Host 10th Annual Choice Fair
November 20 at Osceola Heritage Park
The Osceola County School District is inviting all students and parents to explore a world of educational possibilities at its 10th Annual Choice Fair, taking place Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Osceola Heritage Park Events Center.
The milestone event will shine a spotlight on the district’s innovative academic programs, career pathways, and specialized learning experiences designed to help students discover their passions and prepare for success beyond the classroom. Families will have the opportunity to learn more about programs in STEM, Fine Arts, International Baccalaureate, Dual Language, and Career & Technical Education, among others.
Throughout the evening, guests can visit booths from every SDOC school, connect with educators and program leaders, and take advantage of free resources, giveaways, and books. The event will also feature student performances and art exhibits, health screenings, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Admission and parking are free. “This is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of choice, growth, and the bright futures of our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff. “Reaching the tenth year of the Choice Fair underscores our district’s ongoing commitment to innovation and student success.”
The Magic of Christmas Returns to Downtown St. Cloud with
the 62nd Annual Christmas Parade
The holiday season in St. Cloud will soon sparkle with joy and community spirit as the 62nd Annual St. Cloud Christmas Parade returns to Downtown St. Cloud on Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. Hosted by the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and the City of St. Cloud, this year’s parade theme — “The Magic of Christmas” — promises to fill the streets with festive cheer, colorful floats, marching bands, and holiday fun for all ages.
The iconic parade is presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, with support from Experience Kissimmee
The much-anticipated community tradition brings together residents, local organizations, and visitors to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Families can look forward to a magical morning filled with music, creativity, and of course, an appearance from Santa Claus himself! The event is free to the public, and everyone is invited to attend and enjoy the celebration.
Those wishing to participate in the parade are encouraged to register soon before spaces fill up.
For more information, visit the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce.
A $754 Million Mega Millions Jackpot Looms as a Halloween Treat This Friday
Halloween may bring plenty of tricks, but this Friday’s Mega Millions drawing promises an especially sweet treat — a staggering $754 million jackpot, the largest ever offered on October 31 in the game’s history.
No ticket matched all six numbers in Tuesday night’s drawing (2, 19, 33, 53, 61, and Mega Ball 14), propelling the grand prize to new heights. The cash option for Friday’s drawing stands at $352.8 million.
While Halloween has seen six Mega Millions drawings before, none have ever produced a jackpot winner — making this year’s drawing one of the most anticipated in the game’s spooky season history.
Millions in Smaller Prizes Already Won
Tuesday’s drawing generated 502,089 winning tickets nationwide, totaling nearly $10.1 million in prizes. Eight lucky players matched four white balls and the Mega Ball, earning the game’s third-tier prize, with winnings ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on their multiplier.
The jackpot has been climbing since June 27, when a $348 million ticket was sold in Virginia. Over the course of 35 drawings, more than 10.5 million tickets have won prizes of all levels — collectively worth nearly $251 million.
Orlando Health Becomes First in the Nation to Use New Magnet Technology for Weight Loss Surgeries
Orlando Health has once again placed Central Florida on the map for groundbreaking medical innovation. The healthcare system announced Thursday that it is the first in the United States to use a revolutionary magnet-based technology for weight loss surgeries — a major step forward in advancing patient safety and recovery.
The announcement came during the Orlando Health Surgical Innovations Summit, where surgeons demonstrated the new system inside the state-of-the-art Orlando Health Bioskills Lab. The event brought together leading experts and innovators from across the nation and abroad to collaborate on improving surgical care and outcomes.
The innovative procedure utilizes the Flexagon Self-forming Magnets System developed by GI Windows Surgical. Orlando Health became the first healthcare system to use the technology after participating in its clinical trial. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration officially approved the system earlier this summer.
During the live demonstration, Orlando Health surgeons showed how the precision magnets are used in minimally invasive weight loss surgeries. The system allows for more efficient tissue connection, potentially reducing surgery time and leading to faster, safer recoveries for patients.developments expand in the area.
The upgraded intersections will feature turn lanes, enhanced lighting, and improved pedestrian crossings to meet modern transportation standards.
Kissimmee Fire Department
Opens
New
Training Pavilion to Strengthen Public Safety
The City of Kissimmee Fire Department, in partnership with the City’s Public Works and Engineering Department, has completed construction of its new Training Pavilion—an advanced facility designed to enhance firefighter readiness and expand emergency response capabilities throughout the community.
Located within the City of Kissimmee Public Safety Training Facility, the new pavilion provides a dedicated field space for specialized courses, including Vehicle and Machinery Rescue, Hazardous Materials Response, Confined Space Rescue, and Fire Apparatus Pump Operations. These advanced training programs ensure that Kissimmee firefighters can respond to complex emergencies with greater precision, safety, and efficiency.
The facility also includes a stand-alone decontamination building equipped with showers, enabling firefighters to remove potentially harmful contaminants following live-fire training exercises. This addition underscores KFD’s ongoing commitment to firefighter wellness and long-term health by improving hygiene and safety standards during and after intensive training.
Funded primarily through a State of Florida Criminal Justice Grant, the Training Pavilion underwent several months of construction and safety inspections before becoming fully operational in October 2025.
Kissimmee Launches Self-Service Kayak Rentals at Shingle Creek Regional Park
Exploring the scenic beauty of Shingle Creek just got easier. The City of Kissimmee Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with Osceola County Environment and Public Lands, has launched self-service kayak rentals at Shingle Creek Regional Park’s Steffee Landing — offering residents and visitors a new, convenient way to experience one of Central Florida’s natural treasures.
The new service, available seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, is operated through a partnership with Whenever Watersports. Using a kiosk located on-site, users can scan a QR code, follow simple prompts in a mobile app, and unlock a kayak within minutes. For first-time paddlers, a short instructional video titled “4 Easy Steps to Use Our Self-Service Kayaks” provides a quick guide to getting started.
City officials say the project is part of Kissimmee’s broader effort to make outdoor recreation more accessible while promoting health, wellness, and environmental appreciation. “This is another way we’re enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors, giving them more opportunities to connect with nature,” a city spokesperson said.
Shingle Creek, known as the headwaters of the Everglades, offers calm, tree-lined waterways ideal for eco-tourism, family outings, and peaceful solo paddles. The new self-service system provides flexibility for both seasoned kayakers and those looking to explore the area for the first time.
Step Back in Time at Osceola History’s 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, Saturday, November 8Tomorrow, Today’
Osceola History invites the community to celebrate the spirit and stories of Florida’s earliest settlers during the 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, taking place Saturday, November 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek, located at 2491 Babb Road in Kissimmee.
This free, family-friendly festival honors Osceola County’s rich pioneer heritage and the resilience of its 19th-century residents. Visitors can explore the historic Pioneer Village, where authentic structures and costumed interpreters bring history to life — from traditional pioneer homesteads to Seminole camps, offering an immersive glimpse into Florida’s past.
Guests will enjoy live music, a kids’ craft zone, a real Florida market, and captivating demonstrations showcasing pioneer skills and Seminole traditions.
Pioneer Day Arts, Crafts & Market
The event’s lively market will feature an array of handmade arts, crafts, and food products from talented Florida artisans. Visitors can also pick up delicious homemade baked goods and one-of-a-kind creations while supporting local makers.
With free entry and free parking, Pioneer Day is the perfect opportunity for families, history enthusiasts, and visitors to experience “Old Florida” while celebrating the people who shaped Osceola County’s earliest communities.
Osceola Arts Expands its ARTisNOW Project with New Kissimmee Mural
A new mural at the Orange Gardens Community Center is giving Kissimmee residents wings — literally. The latest addition to Osceola Arts’ Public Murals project, the vibrant “Wings of Community” mural was unveiled Thursday with a ribbon-cutting celebration. Artist Deivi Sanchez of Kissimmee completed the five-wall mural on the exterior of the Orange Gardens Community Center over two months this past summer. Sanchez, 39, didn’t start out as an artist; he studied computer science and works as a program developer. “But I discovered art was always in my path,” he said. “I tried to make creative things, and I tried to paint, but it was never a career.” So in 2017, he started training in drawing and painting.
“I like both computers and art,” Sanchez said. “Sometimes people say, ‘You can do this,’ or ‘You can do that.’ They say you have to define. But I don’t want to define. I would like to keep exploring, and at some point, that will stop. But in the meantime, I’m just enjoying it.”
Combining his computer and art skills, Sanchez added an augmented reality element to his mural. By scanning the QR code provided, visitors can see elements of the artwork come to life on their screens.
Sanchez’s mural is the latest addition to the Osceola Arts’ ARTisNOW Public Murals project. The project began in 2019 and now has about 30 murals in Osceola County, according to Brian Camacho, public arts coordinator at Osceola Arts.
City of St. Cloud to Launch “Soldier City Sundays” Weekly Community Market at Veterans Park
The City of St. Cloud Veterans Council is proud to announce the launch of Soldier City Sundays — a new weekly community market and veterans resource event honoring St. Cloud’s proud heritage as The Soldier City.
The event kicks off Sunday, November 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Veterans Park (1201 13th Street, St. Cloud), and will continue every Sunday unless otherwise noted for holidays or special city events.
Visitors can look forward to a fun, family-friendly atmosphere featuring:
Local vendors, crafters, and food trucks
Live entertainment and music
Games and activities for all ages
Onsite veterans’ resources and support organizations
Admission is free, and everyone is encouraged to come out, shop local, and connect with neighbors while celebrating St. Cloud’s veteran community.
“Soldier City Sundays” is brought to you by the City of St. Cloud Veterans Council, which was established to honor and support veterans while strengthening community connections.
Orlando Health Awards $1.1 Million in Grants to Central Florida Nonprofits to Address Key Health Needs
Orlando Health has announced the distribution of $1.1 million in grants to nonprofit organizations across Central Florida as part of its annual community grant program. The funding supports organizations dedicated to improving health and wellness, aligning with the findings of the newly released 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment.
Each selected nonprofit receives its full grant award at the beginning of the funding cycle, ensuring that resources are available immediately to address urgent community health priorities. The 2025 CHNA, developed in collaboration with local health and community partners, uses a combination of comprehensive data and community feedback to identify the most pressing health challenges throughout the region.
“The Community Health Needs Assessment is a critical component in identifying the highest priority areas impacting the health of our communities today,” said Sara Osborne, senior director of Orlando Health Community Benefit. “By making investments annually and providing grant funding in full at the start of the award period, we’re able to support an immediate impact and collaborate with exceptional community partners who are actively working toward improving health and wellness outcomes in the areas we serve.”
The 2025 assessment highlighted access to care as the top priority for this year’s grant program, focusing on healthcare accessibility, quality, and economic stability.
LEGAL NEWS
Draper
vehicles are
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 need to know about which vehicles have been involved in many of the crashes.
Florida Sees Sharp Rise in Pedestrian Crashes: FLHSMV Urges Vigilance During National Pedestrian Safety Month
As pedestrian crashes climb nearly 19% statewide over the last year, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Florida Highway Patrol are using October’s National Pedestrian Safety Month to call for renewed caution and shared responsibility on Florida’s roadways.
With the theme “Safety Starts With You,” this campaign—supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)—highlights the critical need for both drivers and pedestrians to remain alert, visible, and accountable in preventing tragedies across the Sunshine State.
A Troubling Increase, Despite Fewer Fatalities
According to FLHSMV data, Florida saw 12,223 pedestrian crashes in 2024, a nearly 19% increase from 2023. While fatalities have fortunately decreased for a second consecutive year—from 779 deaths in 2023 to 706 in 2024—the overall number of crashes remains alarmingly high.
The most recent data also shows that pedestrian crashes most frequently occur during evening hours—particularly around 8 p.m.—and in the months of December, March, and October.
PUMPKINS
with a purpose
Osceola County’s Office of Sustainability is accepting pumpkins and other Fall gourds and turning them into compost!
All pumpkins welcome except those with paint, glitter, decoupage, or other adornments!
Choose from any of these convenient locations spread across the entire county listed below!
October
Buenaventura Lakes Library
405 Buenaventura Blvd
Kissimmee, FL 34743
Former Fire Rescue Station 71
8706 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy
Kissimmee, FL 34747
Osceola County Fleet Services 3860 Old Canoe Creek Rd St. Cloud, FL 34769
Poinciana Library 101 N Doverplum Ave
Kissimmee, FL 34758
Extension Services at Osceola Heritage Park
1921 Kissimmee Valley Ln
Kissimmee, FL 34744
Veterans Memorial St. Cloud Library 810 13th St
St. Cloud, FL 34769
Regional Champs: Lady Kowboys Power Past Jupiter in Straight Sets to Earn Class 7A Final Four Spot
Osceola will have a shot at a state volleyball title.
The Lady Kowboys earned their way there Wednesday night by dominating Jupiter in the Class 7A, Region 2 Final in straight sets (25-19, 25-20, 25-13). In winning for the 17th time in their last 18 matches, Osceola went to 26-4 on the season and have not dropped a set in their five district and regional playoff matches.
The victory most likely puts Osceola in a Thursday (Nov. 6) semifinal game against Region 3 Champion Plant (18-8) or Regional 4 Champion Doral Academy (16-13), who upset a #1 seed in Cypress Bay.
The final brackets will be announced later this week, but in all likelihood Winter Park and Osceola will be the top two seeds and would not meet until the finals. Osceola does own a victory over Plant this year; while their last loss of the season came to #1 Winter Park – a five-set road thriller that went down to the wire in the final regular game of the season.
Just as it had done a week earlier against Vero Beach in the regional semifinals, the Lady Kowboys were sharp, relentless and efficient against Jupiter.
It was Osceola’s 31st consecutive win over county opposition, dating back to a five-set loss to Tohopekaliga in October of 2021. During the current winning streak, the Lady
St. Cloud senior Ethan Parish shot 4-under 68 on Tuesday to win the 2025 Orange Belt Conference championship at Royal St. Cloud. It was not the only standout performance for the Bulldogs — as five different golfers came in at par or better with St. Cloud breaking the Osceola County and OBC 18-hole record with a team score of six-under 288.
It was St. Cloud’ second straight OBC title and their sixth title in the last seven years. “I’ve been close to winning this tournament before, especially my freshman and sophomore years, so to finally win it as a senior feels great,” Parish said. “I didn’t make a bunch of putts today, but I was really consistent from tee to green and little went wrong for me today.”
The same could be said of the entire team.
Freshman phenom Ayden Febres, who set county records this year for both a nine-hole (30) and 18-hole (64) score, tied teammate Nick Lehti for second with a one-under 71; while fellow Bulldogs Dominick Velazquez and Arnold Pouncy IV finished tied for fourth with level par 72s.
It was a morning of outstanding play by many county players.
CALBAZAS con un proposito
¡La oficina de Sostenibilidad del Condado de Osceola está aceptando todo tipo de calabazas otoñales para convertirlas en composta!
¡Se aceptarán todas las calabazas excepto aquellas con pintura, brillo, decoupage u otros adornos!
Escoja cualquiera de las localidades a través del Condado.
29 de octubre al 10 de noviembre de 2025
Biblioteca de Buenaventura
405 Buenaventura Blvd
Kissimmee, FL 34743
Antigua Estación 71 de Bomberos
8706 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy
Kissimmee, FL 34747
Servicios de Flotilla del Condado de Osceola
3860 Old Canoe Creek Rd St Cloud, FL 34769
Biblioteca de Poinciana
101 N Doverplum Ave
Kissimmee, FL 34758
Servicios de Extensión en el Osceola Heritage Park
1921 Kissimmee Valley Ln
Kissimmee, FL 34744
Biblioteca Conmemorativa a los Veteranos de St. Cloud
810 13th St
St Cloud, FL 34769
Park Hopping
Old Town to Celebrate 14th Anniversary of Friday Night Muscle Car Show and Cruise with Daytona 500 Promo
Old Town, the iconic Kissimmee walking district known for its shops, dining, and nostalgic charm, will mark a special milestone on Friday, November 7, as it celebrates the 14th Anniversary of its Friday Night Muscle Car Show and Cruise — one of Central Florida’s most beloved weekly traditions with a very special guest!
The anniversary event will feature a special appearance by Daytona International Speedway and the DAYTONA 500 Promo Car, adding extra horsepower to the celebration. Beginning at 3 p.m., the car show will showcase show-quality muscle cars and high-performance vehicles from 1964 and newer, along with classics from 1985 and older.
As the sun sets, the excitement shifts gears at 8:30 p.m., when participating cars line up for a special Anniversary Cruise down Old Town’s brick-lined Main Street — led by the DAYTONA 500 Promo Car itself. Each participating car will receive a commemorative Old Town license plate, available while supplies last.
“There’s no one who does specialty car events like Old Town,” said Thearon Scurlock, Vice President and General Manager of Old Town. “We are thrilled to have Daytona International Speedway and their DAYTONA 500 Promo Car on hand to make this extra special for all our cruisers and all our guests who have been coming for many, many years. every week.”
Osceola Air Urges AC Check-Ups Before Fall—End-ofSummer Deals Available Now!
As summer continues to march on in Central Florida, the signs of the approaching school year are beginning to show. Backpacks are being dusted off, routines are slowly returning, and parents are preparing for the shift from long, hot summer days to the structure of fall. But while the school bells will soon be ringing, one thing isn’t cooling down just yet—the Florida heat.
Before your family dives into the busy back-to-school season, now is the perfect time to check in on your home’s air conditioning system. Osceola County’s trusted HVAC provider, Osceola Air, is encouraging homeowners to schedule an end-of-summer AC check-up—and they’re offering limited-time specials to help keep your system running strong through the final stretch of summer and well into the fall.
End-of-Summer Comfort Starts with a Pre-Season Check-Up
Even as we begin thinking about cooler months ahead, Florida’s heat can linger deep into the school season. A quick and professional system check-up can ensure your AC unit remains efficient, reliable, and ready to handle whatever weather comes next.
Osceola Air’s skilled technicians will inspect refrigerant levels, clean filters, check electrical components, calibrate your thermostat, and more—all to prevent mid-season breakdowns, lower your utility bills, and keep your family cool and comfortable.
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, up-close 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.
Park Hopping
SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Dazzling Christmas Celebration for 2025 Season
The magic of the holidays returns to SeaWorld Orlando this year as the park launches its Christmas Celebration, scheduled for select nights from November 7, 2025 through January 5, 2026.
Promising a winter wonderland full of lights, festive entertainment, and holiday cheer, this year’s event is included with regular park admission — no extra ticket required.
What to Expect
SeaWorld is pulling out all the stops with a lineup of seasonal highlights designed to appeal to families, local visitors, and holiday lovers alike:
Millions of sparkling lights will transform the park into a nighttime spectacle.
Sea of Trees – stroll past dozens of illuminated trees floating on the lagoon, synchronized to holiday music.
Holiday Reflections: Fireworks & Fountains Finale – nightly fireworks and fountain displays set to festive tunes will cap off each event day.
Winter Wonderland on Ice – a Broadway-style ice skating show featuring dazzling visuals and seasonal music.
Park Hopping
Disney’s Hollywood Studios to Launch ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’ in 2026 with Immersive Experiences
A whimsical, character-filled adventure is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026. “The Magic of Disney Animation” will transform the current Star Wars: Launch Bay into a magical, immersive experience inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and the beloved short film Once Upon a Studio.
Topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat, the reimagined space invites guests into a playful version of a Disney animation studio—where, when the animators are away, the characters come out to play. The experience will take place inside the transformed building, drawing direct inspiration from the real-life Burbank studio and will include several interactive areas designed to bring families closer to the animation process and the characters themselves.
In the Production Gallery, visitors will see portraits come to life just like in Once Upon a Studio, while the Screening Theater will present a short animated film that’s sure to charm the whole family. Aspiring artists will also get the chance to learn how to draw fan-favorite Disney characters and even meet them in person.
Families with young children will especially enjoy “Drawn to Wonderland,” a brand-new indoor play area inspired by Mary Blair’s original concept art for Alice in Wonderland. The imaginative playground will include a musical oversized flower garden, a Mad Tea Party playset, and an interactive Tulgey Wood area for exploration and fun.
Park Hopping
SeaWorld Orlando to Honor U.S. Veterans and ActiveDuty Service Members During Veterans Appreciation
SeaWorld Orlando is set to honor America’s heroes this November with its annual Veterans Appreciation Celebration, a special event recognizing the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of U.S. military veterans and active-duty personnel. The celebration will take place November 7–11, 2025, and is included with regular park admission.
A Weekend of Honor and Tribute
Throughout Veterans Appreciation Celebration weekend, guests can look forward to patriotic tributes, inspiring shows, and special experiences designed to salute the men and women who have served our nation. Highlights include:
“Waves of Honor” Entrance Lane: Presented in partnership with Navy Federal Credit Union, this dedicated lane provides convenient access for veterans and active-duty guests.
Fireworks Spectacular: Nightly patriotic fireworks will light up the skies Friday through Sunday at 7 p.m., honoring service members past and present.
Hero’s Salute Animal Presentations: Special moments of recognition will take place during signature SeaWorld experiences, including Orca Encounter, Dolphin Adventures, and Flippers, Facts & Fun: The Sea Lion Experience.
HEALTH NEWS
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Launches AfterHours Dining to Support Patient Care and Recovery
In a move aimed at enhancing patient comfort and care, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has introduced a new after-hours dining service for patients who may miss regular meal times due to medical testing, treatments, or late-night hospital admissions.
The extended dining option, which operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., began in April and served 91 patients last month alone.
“We recognize the critical role of nutrition in our patients’ recovery,” said Tammy Foster, director of food and nutrition at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “This new service is a simple, but powerful way to support the comfort and healing needs of the patients we are grateful to care for.”
Beyond serving hot evening meals, the initiative also allows team members to connect with patients in the evenings to review breakfast options for the next day, further personalizing the care experience and ensuring continued nutritional support.
Orlando Health, the hospital’s parent organization, is a not-for-profit healthcare system serving Florida, Alabama, and Puerto Rico. With a mission to improve health and quality of life, the system manages over $12 billion in assets and delivers care through an expansive network of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty facilities.
