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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

KUA’s Movie in the Park Brings Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch

City of St. Cloud to Launch “Soldier City Sundays”

Magic of Christmas Returns to Downtown St. Cloud

Help Now Hosts 1st Annual St. Cloud Candlelight Vigil

Bulldogs Dominate Lake Minneola Hawks 55-6

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration returns Friday

16 Couples Tie the Knot at I Boo’ Scare-amony

Walt Disney World 2025: A Festive Florida Escape

Mega Millions Jackpot Climbs to $800 Million

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.

Give Kids The World’s Gingerbread Run Returns Under the Lights” On Saturday Night

Ready or not… crumb and get us! �� Give Kids The World Village has announced the return of its beloved Gingerbread Run, a heartwarming annual 5K that combines fitness, fun, and festive cheer — all in support of children with critical illnesses and their families.

This year’s event, Gingerbread Run: Under the Lights, takes place Saturday, November 8, 2025, and will once again be held at night, offering runners, walkers, and rollers the unforgettable experience of moving through the nonprofit resort’s storybook Village illuminated by spectacular holiday lights.=

Participants can choose between a 5K or a Family Fun Run, winding through whimsical avenues lined with glowing gingerbread, candy canes, and twinkling decorations that turn the Village into a winter wonderland. Those unable to attend in person can still take part virtually — creating their own magical challenge from anywhere in the world.

Funds raised from the Gingerbread Run directly benefit Give Kids The World Village, a nonprofit resort in Kissimmee that provides cost-free, weeklong vacations for critically ill children and their families from around the globe.

Every step, stride, and smile helps bring hope and joy to families who need it most.

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.

Mega Millions Jackpot Climbs to $800 Million After No Winner in Friday’s Drawing

There’s a little magic in the air this weekend as the Mega Millions jackpot continues to soar, now reaching an estimated $800 million (or $371.7 million cash) ahead of the next drawing on Tuesday, November 4.

No ticket matched all six numbers drawn on Friday night — the white balls 2, 24, 52, 66, and 68, along with the gold Mega Ball 9 — keeping the jackpot rolling for another round. It’s been nearly a decade since Mega Millions crowned a November jackpot winner. The last occurred in 2016, and only 16 jackpots have been won during this month since the game began in 2002. The largest of those November prizes reached $326 million, claimed in New York on November 4, 2014.

If the jackpot is won this Tuesday, it could mark one of the most memorable November payouts in Mega Millions history.

Halloween Drawing Still Brought Plenty of Treats

While no one hit the top prize on Halloween night, 557,912 players across the country did take home winnings across all prize tiers, totaling nearly $10.9 million. Six tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball, earning the game’s third-tier prize. Three players — in Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania — used the 2X multiplier to win $20,000 each.

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.

Together We Remember, Together We Stand: Help Now Hosts 1st

Annual St. Cloud Candlelight DV Vigil

A crowd gathered Wednesday evening on the steps of St. Cloud City Hall for a moving tribute to victims and survivors of domestic violence during the 1st Annual Candlelight Vigil — “A Light That Remembers.” The event, hosted by Help Now of Osceola in partnership with the Osceola County Domestic Violence Task Force, united community members in remembrance, reflection, and hope as October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close.

The ceremony was led by Help Now Executive Director Tammy Douglass, who delivered heartfelt remarks on the importance of community solidarity and ongoing support for survivors. She was joined by St. Cloud Police Chief Douglas Goerke, who reaffirmed the department’s commitment to continue partnering with Help Now and the community in the fight against domestic violence.

“Addressing domestic violence requires compassion, courage, and collaboration,” Chief Goerke shared. “The St. Cloud Police Department remains dedicated to standing with survivors, supporting prevention, and working hand in hand with community partners like Help Now to stop the cycle of abuse.

Also speaking during the vigil was Christine Montalvo, sister of domestic violence victim Nicole Montalvo, State Rep. Paula Stark, Osceola Domestic Violence Task Force CoChairs Andie Hinman and Pastor Luke Anthony of the AltarChurch.

16 Couples Tie the Knot at Halloween ‘I Boo’ Scareamony at Osceola Clerk & Comptroller’s Office

Sixteen couples tied the knot Halloween morning at the Historic Osceola County Courthouse in a “Til Death Do Us Part Wedding Scare-amony.” The officiant, Osceola County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq., presided over the ceremony in a Slytherin robe, adding a touch of Hogwarts mischief to the morning.

Now in its fourth year, the event merges all the trappings of Halloween with the traditions of a wedding. Guests walked into a haunting soundtrack — think “Thriller,” “Ghostbusters,” and “Somebody’s Watching Me” — and sat among cobweb-strewn pews and black roses. Some couples wore traditional attire while others dressed for the holiday, with witches and Chucky thrown in the mix. And reception tables were topped with everything from cupcakes to candy corn.

Soto said his office hosts events like this to help create a bridge between his office and the public, interacting with the community in a way that creates connection and builds trust. “It will reflect how people will feel about their jury summons or about their court case. I hope they see a little bit more of a relaxed nature from what we normally do, which is very, very serious.

We want to remind people that they have a comptroller’s office and a clerk of court that is here to really serve the whole community in every way we can. We want them to know that the people who are doing it are just their neighbors, people just like them.”

Step Back in Time at Osceola History’s 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, Saturday, November 8Tomorrow, Today’

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

Road Struggles Continue for the UCF Knights in 30-3 Defeat at Baylor Bears

The UCF Knights’ hopes for a Big 12 turnaround were once again derailed Saturday afternoon, as they fell 30–3 on the road to the Baylor Bears in Waco, Texas.

First Half: Baylor Takes Control Early

From the outset, the Bears imposed their will. Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson tossed three touchdowns, while freshman tailback Caden Knighten piled up 104 yards on the ground. UCF, meanwhile, stumbled to just 125 total yards on the day.

Baylor’s defense went to work shutting down virtually every UCF drive — forcing stops on ten of the Knights’ 11 possessions. With momentum firmly in the Bears’ corner, the Knights were unable to build rhythm on offense.

Head coach Scott Frost didn’t mince words afterward, calling it “as frustrating an offensive performance as I’ve been a part of.” The Knights failed to reach the end zone for the first time in more than a decade.

The statistics tell the story: UCF went 0 for 7 on third- and fourth-down conversions, while being outgained 311 to 125 by Baylor. The rushing attack that had shown flashes— led by Myles Montgomery in earlier games—was completely bottled up.

Baylor’s Balanced Attack and Defensive Efficiency

St.

Cloud Bulldogs

Dominate

Lake Minneola Hawks 556, Cap Record-Setting Season at 8-2

Heading into Friday night’s season finale, St. Cloud coach Mike Short said he had three goals for his team. Win, put on a show for the Bulldog fans that have supported the team all season long, and be far enough ahead to give his reserve seniors a chance to see meaningful snaps in the game.

Consider all three boxes checked.

The Bulldogs scored first and often, dominated in all three phases of game, and lit up the scoreboard for the fans, and was able to empty the bench in the second half during a 55-6 win over Lake Minneola.

In winning eight regular season games for the first time since 2008, the Bulldogs (8-2) also set several individual records as sophomore quarterback Jeremiah Lattier broke the school’s all-time single season passing record for yards; while Bryce Williams set a new standard with nine interceptions in a year.

“If you would have told me at the beginning of the season we would finish 8-2, win a district championship and go to the playoffs, I would have taken it in a heartbeat,” Short said. “This team and this group of seniors have worked so hard, they are a special group.”

St. Cloud got off to a fast start in the game, as they took the opening kickoff.

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

Bulldogs

Dominate OBC Golf Championships — Boys Break Records, Girls Win Ninth Straight Crown

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’s Christmas Celebration returns this Friday with a sleighful of holiday flavors, and more!

Guests can explore more than 40 limited-time food and beverage offerings throughout the park with the return of the Festive Food & Sip Sampler, available in 5- or 10-item lanyards.

Here’s a peek at some of the holiday favorites debuting this year:

Sweet & Cheerful Treats

Oreo Beignets – Warm, fluffy beignets topped with caramel drizzle and Oreo cookie crumble.

Strawberries & Cream Beignets – Lightly dusted and filled with sweet berries and Bavarian cream.

Carrol’s Wreath Pretzel – A soft, buttery pretzel shaped like a holiday wreath.

Deep-Dish Cookies – Freshly baked chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and M&M varieties.

Red Velvet Bundt Cake – Mini holiday bundt topped with cream-cheese frosting.

Savory Holiday Favorites

Bison Burger – Juicy bison patty layered with bacon, onion jam, and melted Swiss.

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.