Remembering Beverly Hougland: A Life of Love, Service, and Lasting Impact on Osceola County
With heavy hearts, the Osceola County community is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished leaders, Beverly Rose Hougland, who passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family.
Around Osceola
Osceola County Hosts 2025 State of the County Address
Legend of the Haunted Trail Returns to St. Cloud
Viva Osceola is back Oct. 5: Kissimmee Lakefront Park
Supervisor of Elections Launches Calendar Contest
New Alcohol Sales Rules Now in Effect in Kissimmee
Tohopekaliga Faces Tough Road Test at Lake Brantley
Barrel Racing Heats Up ahead of Boots, Bulls, Barrels!
Osceola Clerk to Host Halloween Group Wedding
KUA Movie in the Park to Feature Minecraft Movie
“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
Barrel Racing Heats Up at Silver Spurs Arena Ahead of Next Saturday’s Boots, Bulls and Barrels!
Rodeo dirt returned to the Silver Spurs Arena on Saturday as more than 100 riders competed in a full day of barrel racing, a sport deeply tied to Osceola County’s ranching roots. Next Saturday, fans will pack the stands for the Silver Spurs Rodeo’s Boots, Bulls, and Barrels, a night featuring Women’s Barrel Racing, Bull Riding, and Saddle Bronc Riding. Boots, Bulls, and Barrels is brought to you by Experience Kissimmee and sponsored by Kisselback Ford.
Heather Burns, event manager for the Silver Spurs, said this weekend’s event was held to give riders an opportunity to practice their sport, since the arena is already set up for the Boots, Bulls and Barrels event happening next weekend. “It gives people something to do, especially in this county,” Burns said. “This is kind of what Osceola County was prior to Disney … the rodeo, the ranching, the fun. We have this amazing building … why not do something special for them?”
Barrel racing traces its roots back to 1928 in Stamford, Texas, where it was introduced as one of the first rodeo events to give women the chance to compete and showcase their skills. In its earliest form, riders maneuvered through a figure-eight pattern around two barrels.
The event later evolved into the now-iconic cloverleaf design, using three barrels, which has become the standard in modern rodeo.
3 FUN FEST FUN FEST
FRIDAY AT 5:00 PM OCTOBER
Rober t Guevara Community Center 501 Florida Pkwy., Kissimmee, FL 34743
*Additional Parking: 65 Infantry Park th (Shuttle provided)
Free! Osceola County residents only ¡Gratis! Sólo residentes del condado de Osceola
Osceola School District Releases 2026 Graduation Dates and Times
The Class of 2026 is ready to turn the tassel as the School District of Osceola County prepares to celebrate high school graduations this May and June. From Osceola Heritage Park to the School for the Arts, thousands of students will walk the stage and mark the beginning of their next chapter.
Graduation caps will fly on the following days and times for Osceola County’s 2026 high school graduates:
May 18, 2026 – Location: Osceola County School for the Arts
Osceola County School for the Arts at 6:00 p.m.
May 19, 2026 – Location: Osceola Heritage Park
Poinciana High School at 1:30 p.m.
Tohopekaliga High School at 5:30 p.m.
May 20, 2026 – Location: Osceola Heritage Park
Liberty High School at 9:30 a.m.
Harmony High School at 1:30 p.m.
Osceola High School at 5:30 p.m.
KUA Celebrates 40th Anniversary With Movie in the Park Featuring A Minecraft Movie
Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) will mark its 40th anniversary with a community celebration as it kicks off the 2025–2026 season of Movie in the Park on Friday, Oct. 3, at the Veterans Lawn of Kissimmee Lakefront Park.
The evening will feature family-friendly activities beginning at 5:30 p.m., including KUA’s inflatable Kids Power Zone, free popcorn, a craft station, a photo booth, touch-a-truck, and prize giveaways. Guests can also enjoy complimentary hot dogs and cake bites from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with additional concessions available for purchase. Children using inflatable activities must be accompanied by an adult to sign a waiver, which can be completed in advance at kua.com/waiver.
The highlight of the night will be the showing of A Minecraft Movie on a giant 50-foot screen at sunset. The movie will include closed captioning for attendees with hearing impairments.
In addition to entertainment, guests will have the chance to learn how to reduce their monthly electric bills through tips and on-site energy audits offered by the KUA Green Team at the utility’s new SunCatcher Solar Energy Trailer.
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the movie under the stars.
New Alcohol Sales Rules Now in Effect Today in Downtown Kissimmee
Downtown Kissimmee businesses must obtain a special city permit if they want to serve alcohol past midnight.
The change, part of Ordinance #25-09 approved unanimously by the Kissimmee City Commission in July, requires restaurants, microbreweries, tasting rooms, and specialty retail shops in the Downtown Community Redevelopment Area to apply for an AfterMidnight Alcohol Sales Permit to operate between 12 a.m. and 2 a.m.
Without the permit, businesses must fully close at midnight. The annual permit costs $250, and enforcement falls under the Kissimmee Police Department, which also has the authority to suspend permits if safety concerns or incidents arise.
Some business owners have raised concerns that the earlier closing time could send late-night patrons to surrounding areas, while city leaders say the measure aims to balance nightlife with public safety and neighborhood livability.
The alcohol sales rule is the latest in a series of changes for downtown businesses. Just last month, commissioners approved updates to the city’s noise ordinance requiring bars and restaurants to lower music volumes during late-night hours.
Four
County Commissioners Launch Online Tool to Simplify Life for Four Corners Residents
Residents of the Four Corners region now have a new way to quickly identify which county provides their public services, thanks to a collaborative effort by Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Polk counties.
Nearly 60,000 residents live in this unique area where all four counties meet. While the region is known for its rapid growth, bustling neighborhoods, commercial developments, and proximity to major attractions, it has also faced challenges. Because U.S. Postal addresses in Four Corners are often assigned based on routing rather than geography, residents and businesses have long struggled to determine which county to contact for essential services.
To solve that problem, county leaders unveiled a new online address tool at fourcornersfl.us. By entering an address into the search bar, residents can instantly access direct links to county-specific services including Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, Supervisor of Elections, Sheriff’s Office, School District, Clerk of Courts, libraries, and more.
The project was spearheaded by the Four Corners Task Force, an interlocal agreement group formed by the four counties to improve coordination and streamline government services in the region. District commissioners from each county lead the initiative.
Do You Dare? The Legend of the Haunted Trail Returns to St. Cloud’s Peghorn Nature Park This October
St. Cloud’s spookiest tradition is back, and it’s ready to test your courage. The Haunted Trail at Peghorn Nature Park will once again open its eerie paths for thrill-seekers on October 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25, running from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. each night.
Guests will step into the darkness of the park’s winding trails, never knowing what bone-chilling surprises might be waiting around the next corner. With scares lurking in every shadow, this immersive experience promises to deliver frights and thrills for those who dare to enter.
Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate, with advance purchases required by 5 p.m. the day of the event. Please note that pre-purchased tickets do not provide priority access, so arriving early is encouraged.
The Haunted Trail is not recommended for young children, and tickets are nonrefundable and non-transferable. Guests must bring a copy of their receipt and a photo ID to check in (digital copies are accepted).
Location: Peghorn Nature Park, 2101 Peghorn Way, St. Cloud
Tickets: Purchase here
Get ready for a hauntingly unforgettable night—if you’re brave enough to take the trail.
St. Cloud Fire Rescue to Add 48 New Firefighters with Historic $9.5 Million SAFER Grant
The City of St. Cloud has earned a historic $9.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that will allow St. Cloud Fire Rescue to hire 48 new firefighters, marking the largest grant award in the city’s history.
The funding, part of the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program, will help the department meet the growing demand for emergency services as St. Cloud’s population continues to rise. Since 2022, the city’s 9-1-1 call center has averaged more than 100,000 calls for service each year, while the city’s population has climbed to over 70,000 — nearly 20% higher than the last U.S. Census count.
Mayor Chris Robertson emphasized the importance of this milestone for the community.
Fire Chief Jason Miller also noted how the grant strengthens the city’s ability to respond in times of need.
“The quality of service we provide to our residents is paramount,” Miller said. “When you or your loved ones need emergency help, knowing you have a welltrained, caring, and professional fire department minutes away makes all the difference.”
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Osceola State of the County, Hosted by Chairwoman Viviana Janer, Showcases Growth and Bold ‘Building
The annual State of the County address, hosted by Osceola Chairwoman and District 2 County Commissioner Viviana Janer, carried the theme ‘Building for Tomorrow, Today’ on Wednesday as Janer and fellow commissioners highlighted Osceola’s rapid growth, major infrastructure projects, public safety initiatives, and forward-looking programs to prepare residents for the future.
Noting that Osceola County is at a pivotal moment in its history, Janer spoke about the recent population surge in the county and how local government is working to keep up with the needs of its residents.
“As one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida and the nation, Osceola is rising to meet the challenges of growth with eyes focused on the future and hearts rooted in service,” she said. “We are growing faster than ever, and we are determined to build a community that works for everyone who calls it home.”
The chairwoman highlighted ongoing road expansions and collaborations with the Florida Department of Transportation, the Central Florida Expressway Authority, and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise. “We’re leading a multi-billion-dollar program to expand our roadway infrastructure, improving the roads we rely on every day and strengthening connections between neighborhoods, business centers, and corridors,” Janer said.
Osceola
County to Host 2025 State of the County: ‘Building for Tomorrow, Today’ with Chairwoman Viviana Janer
With heavy hearts, the Osceola County community is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished leaders, Beverly Rose Hougland, who passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family.
On Wednesday, friends, coworkers, community leaders, and the many people whose lives were positively touched by Beverly filled the Osceola Council on Aging—an agency she led for decades—for a celebration of life. It was a service not only of remembrance, but of gratitude for a life dedicated to others, to community, and to her beloved family.
Born October 29, 1942, in Loyall, Kentucky, Beverly grew up in Harlan with her twin brother, Rick. From her earliest years, she was known for her gentle spirit, her kindness, and her ability to see the good in everyone. At Loyall High School, she was a flute player, cheerleader, and Beta Club member, her easy smile and welcoming nature making her a friend to all.
She carried that same warmth into adulthood, first as a teacher, where she was remembered as a compassionate educator, and later as a devoted wife and mother. Her life was one of service—whether in the classroom, at home, or in the broader community.
In 1979, Beverly joined the Osceola Council on Aging as the Meals on Wheels coordinator. What began as a mission to ensure seniors received nutritious meals quickly grew into a lifelong calling.
Lakefront with Oro Solido headlining
The Osceola Chamber’s signature Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, Viva Osceola, returns Sunday, October 5 from 1:00–7:00 p.m. at the Kissimmee Lakefront Festival Lawn. Admission is free. This year’s festival is presented by Orlando Health, brought to you by Experience Kissimmee, and sponsored by KUA.
Recognized as one of Central Florida’s top Hispanic festivals and the largest in Osceola County, Viva Osceola showcases the music, dance, food, and traditions of cultures including Venezuelan, Colombian, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Peruvian, Brazilian, and more.
Main stage & cultural performances
Headliner: ORO SOLIDO by Raúl Acosta
Also performing: Luifer Cachazo, México Lindo Orlando, FLAVA Dance Academy, and the Locura Banda Show.
Expect high-energy merengue, live band sets, folklórico ensembles, and crowd-pleasing dance numbers throughout the afternoon.
Family activities: Kids’ activities, cultural showcases, and plenty of authentic Latin cuisine from local vendors. Viva Osceola is
Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Launches Fourth Biannual Calendar Art Contest
The Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office has announced the start of its fourth biannual calendar art contest, inviting all K-12 students in Osceola County to showcase their creativity while promoting accurate voter information.
The winning artwork will be featured in the Elections Office’s 2026–2027 calendar, which will include key election dates and information for voters. Submissions must be on 8.5” x 11” paper in landscape orientation and contain accurate voter details without endorsing any political party or candidate.
The deadline to submit artwork to the Elections Office is October 14, 2025.
A public gallery event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Supervisor of Elections Operations Center, located at 2570 Partin Settlement Road in Kissimmee.
Community members will have the opportunity to view the submissions and vote for their favorite pieces. Artwork selected during the gallery night election will be featured in the upcoming calendar.
For more information, contact the Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office at 407-742-6000 or visit www.voteosceola.gov/Voter-Information/Outreach-andEducation.
Osceola educator and tradition-bearer Kaye Whaley set to lead Silver Spurs: Boots, Bulls & Barrels Rodeo Oct. 4
On Saturday, October 4, Kaye Whaley will step into the spotlight as the Silver Spurs Riding Club’s 2025–26 Big Boss—a milestone that places the lifelong Spurs member and Harmony High School teacher at the helm of an organization that has preserved Osceola County’s Western heritage for more than eight decades and helped bring to life one of the largest and most impactful professional rodeo traditions east of the Mississippi. Boots, Bulls, and Barrels will hit the dirt at 7:30pm and is sponsored by Experience Kissimmee.
Whaley’s appointment marks only the fourth time a woman has served as Big Boss in the Club’s storied history. It also caps a career of more than 32 years in Osceola County schools, where she has earned multiple Teacher of the Year honors and Disney Teacherrific awards, and now serves students and colleagues on Harmony’s campus. A Partin family legacy, carried forward
Whaley’s Spurs story is stitched into Osceola County history. Her grandparents, Doc and Petie Partin, were among the Club’s earliest members and helped build its rodeos and community footprint.
Her father, Doug Partin, served for years as the Club’s stock contractor; his memory is honored annually through the Doug Partin Spirit Award at the Miss Silver Spurs Pageant.
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.
Boots, Bulls & Barrels Returns to Silver Spurs Arena October 4 for One Night of Heart-Pounding Rodeo Action
Rodeo fans, mark your calendars! The Silver Spurs Riding Club is bringing back the highenergy Boots, Bulls & Barrels event on Friday, October 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the Silver Spurs Arena in Osceola Heritage Park.
This action-packed evening will showcase the rodeo’s most thrilling events, including bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and women’s barrel racing. Watch as top riders and racers go head-to-head, vying for leaderboard glory in a night filled with adrenaline and family-friendly fun.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and parking is free for all attendees. Guests can also pick up official event merchandise, available near sections 221–222.
Ticket Prices:
Kids 3 and under: Free (lap seating)
Ages 4–10: $15
Adults Silver Section: $25
Adults Gold Section: $35
With only one night to catch this thrilling rodeo experience, don’t miss your chance to cheer on your favorite competitors.
GAR Reopening Plans, Paddleboat Revival Update
Shared at St. Cloud Main Street’s Breakfast Event
Tuesday’s “Breakfast with the Pros,” hosted by St. Cloud Main Street at St. Cloud’s VFW Hall, featured updates from St. Cloud Mayor Chris Robertson, caretaker of the Grand Old Army building, and John Weaver, co-owner with his wife Terry, of The Old Florida Riverboat Company.
As she introduced the speakers, Paula Stark, executive director of St. Cloud Main Street, encouraged residents to continue to attend the monthly “Breakfast with the Pros” meetings, which include free breakfast for the first 30 attendees. “We do this once a month through the month of March, so please check it out and come and listen to all of our speakers, because we have a great lineup,” Stark said.
Built in 1914 on Massachusetts Avenue in St. Cloud, the GAR building has been closed for four decades. Robertson, who has been caretaker for five years, shared his vision for reopening the historic site as a place of community. From town hall meetings to fundraising events to school field trips, he said he wants the community to “get in there and explore it.”
Robertson plans to provide a room for the Museum of Military History, which is located in Kissimmee, to display artifacts from every conflict in American history, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I, all the way through the War on Terror.
Tohopekaliga Faces Tough
Road Test at Lake Brantley in Week 7 Showdown
A non-district matchup between Tohopekaliga (3-2) and Lake Brantley (4-1) highlights the Week 7 football schedule for Osceola County schools.
The Tigers went to 1-0 in district play with a big road win over Harmony last week (Read about that game here: Tohopekaliga Tigers Capitalize on Turnovers to Top Harmony Longhorns 28-16 in District Clash ) and although this game will have no bearing on the District 10, 7A race, it still could have significant impact on the playoffs.
Only district champions are guaranteed playoff spots and a win over the Patriots would certainly look good on the Tigers resume for a possible at-large bid should they not win the district title. “They are one of top teams in Central Florida and we are playing them on the road,” Tohopekaliga coach Anthony Paradiso says. “So I really would not say we have any pressure on us. We are going the approach this game like we do every game. It’s one of 10 and our goal is to play our best game and improve from last week.”
The game should be a showcase of two of the better quarterbacks in the area. Lake Brantley sophomore Jackson Stetcher suffered his first loss of the season last week to an outstanding Seminole (43-21) team. He is an excellent dual threat quarterback who had 10 TD passes with no interceptions and six rushing touchdowns in his first four games. Davon Washington (26.4 yards per catch) is his deep ball threat.
Orlando Health Medical Pavilion St. Cloud Opens New Lung and Sleep Medicine Clinic to Serve Osceola County
Orlando Health Lung and Sleep Medicine Group has expanded its presence in Osceola County with the opening of a new clinic at the Orlando Health Medical Pavilion – St. Cloud, bringing specialized pulmonary and sleep care services closer to local residents.
The clinic is led by pulmonologists Dr. Abed Madanieh and Dr. Chirin Orabi, both of whom provide comprehensive consultative, diagnostic, and therapeutic care for patients facing lung and sleep-related conditions.
Dr. Madanieh brings expertise in managing chronic and complex lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, emphysema, interstitial lung disease, and sarcoidosis. He also serves critically ill patients in the Intensive Care Unit at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital.
Dr. Orabi, who is also board certified in pulmonary and critical care medicine, has extensive experience treating obstructive and interstitial lung diseases, pleural disorders, and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. She also provides care for patients with acute or life-threatening conditions in the ICU at Orlando Health St. Cloud.
“Orlando Health is committed to providing specialized healthcare services through the pulmonology clinic so St. Cloud residents can access high-quality care closer to home,” said Dr. Orabi. “Pulmonology services aren’t just about treating conditions — it is about empowering individuals to breathe easier and live fuller lives.”
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.
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.
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.
Park Hopping
Walt Disney World to Unveil Festive Holiday Magic from November 14 – December 31, 2025
This holiday season, Walt Disney World Resort will transform into a winter wonderland with festive decor, special food and beverage offerings, exclusive holiday entertainment, new merchandise, and much more! From November 14 through December 31, 2025, guests of all ages are invited to experience the magic of the holidays at the four theme parks, Disney Springs, and Disney Resort Hotels.
Holiday Highlights Across the Parks: Magic Kingdom Park
Holiday Decorations: The park will sparkle with festive trimmings throughout Main Street, U.S.A., offering perfect photo opportunities for visitors.
Frozen Holiday Surprise: Olaf and his snowgie siblings will add festive décor to Cinderella Castle, bringing the holiday spirit to life.
Jingle Cruise: The popular Jingle Cruise returns with a holiday twist, as skippers guide guests through whimsical, holiday-themed adventures.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Sunset Greetings: Sunset Boulevard will shine with a holiday makeover, featuring displays inspired by “Mickey’s Christmas Carol,” “Toy Story,” and more.
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
Explore the Wild Side: Drive-Thru Safari Park at Wild Florida Offers an Unforgettable Adventure
Ready to embark on a thrilling wildlife journey without leaving the comfort of your car? Look no further than Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park, an Osceola County gem that’s redefining family road trips.
With over 150 exotic and native animals roaming freely across expansive grounds, the safari park offers a unique opportunity to get up close to giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more. The gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 6 p.m., with the last car allowed in at 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. Guests can enhance their visit with unforgettable animal encounters, from feeding gentle giants to painting alongside the tallest creatures on Earth.
And as a bonus, admission to Wild Florida’s Gator Park is included with every safari ticket, allowing visitors to walk on the wild side with alligators and other fascinating reptiles.
Whether booking online, calling 407-957-3135, or emailing reservations@wildfl.com, the process is quick and easy. Reservations are available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it simple to plan a day of adventure.
