The most magical week in sports is returning to Orlando for the second time, as the city has been selected to host NBA All-Star 2012. Orlando also hosted the 1992 All-Star Game.

The 61st NBA All-Star Game will be played on Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Amway Center, which will also host the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam and NBA All-Star Saturday Night presented by State Farm. NBA All-Star Jam Session presented by adidas, the hugely successful interactive basketball celebration, will be held at the Orange County Convention Center.

Few All-Star Games have rivaled the one Orlando hosted in 1992 in which the West defeated the East, 153-113, at Orlando Arena. The game is best remembered for the return of Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson, who had retired in November 1991 after contracting HIV. By the time the final buzzer sounded, Johnson had gone one-on-one with both Isiah Thomas and Michael Jordan, and turned in a vintage performance, recording game highs of 25 points and nine assists to lead the West and win his second All-Star MVP award. Golden State guard Tim Hardaway, who had allowed Johnson to replace him in the starting lineup, contributed 14 points and seven assists.

The 2011-12 season will mark the 28th year that Turner Sports will provide NBA All-Star coverage, and the 10th consecutive year the All-Star Game will be televised in primetime on TNT. The All-Star Game will be seen by a worldwide television audience in more than 200 countries and territories and in more than 40 languages.

NBA All-Star competitions will get underway on Friday, Feb. 24, as the league’s top rookies and second-year players square off in the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam. The following day’s festivities will feature NBA All-Star Saturday Night presented by State Farm, an all-inclusive skills showcase comprised of Haier Shooting Stars, a competition featuring NBA and WNBA players, and NBA legends; Taco Bell Skills Challenge, a contest of top guards working against the clock to complete a series of passes, free throws, layups and agility drills; the Foot Locker Three-Point Contest, a long-standing staple of the evening; and the ever-entertaining Sprite Slam Dunk contest.

During NBA All-Star 2012, the NBA will continue to celebrate its tradition and commitment to social responsibility with a schedule of NBA Cares events. NBA Cares will partner with schools, government, and local nonprofit organizations in Orlando and surrounding areas to highlight the league’s grassroots and community initiatives that reach millions of young people and their parents while providing critical resources to community-based programs.

One of the event’s most popular attractions is NBA All-Star Jam Session presented by adidas, which will be held at the Orange County Convention Center. At Jam Session, fans can have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of participating in the NBA All-Star excitement, with the chance to meet and collect free autographs from NBA players and legends. Jam Session is nonstop basketball action, as fans can shoot, slam, dribble and drive all day; compete against their friends in skills challenges; or get basketball tips from NBA players and legends. Young fans can hang out at Kids Zone – with hoops and interactive activities that are the perfect size for kids’ slam dunks, three-pointers and jump shots. For fans who want NBA entertainment, Jam Session features the NBA’s favorite players, mascots, dance teams and celebrities as they hit Center Court in a variety of basketball competitions, including the NBA All-Star Practice and the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game.

The Orlando Magic is the developer of the Amway Center, which will compete to host major national events, concerts and family shows. Opening in the fall of 2010, the facility will be operated by the city of Orlando and owned by the Central Florida community. The Amway Center was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior will feature a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one façade. A 120-foot tall tower will serve as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. At 875,000 square feet, the new arena is almost triple the size of the current Amway Arena (367,000 square feet). The building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design, unmatched technology, featuring 1,100 digital monitors and the largest, high-definition scoreboard in an NBA venue, and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Every level of ticket buyer will have access to: the Everyfan’s Bar and Food Court, Club Restaurant, Nutrilite Magic Fan Experience and Orlando Info Garden, Kid’s Zone, and multiple indoor-outdoor spaces which celebrate Florida’s climate.

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

“We are not trying to entertain the critics. I’ll take my chances with the public.”

“Tomorrow will be better as long as America keeps alive the ideals of freedom and a better life.”

“I can never stand still. I must explore and experiment. I am never satisfied with my work. I resent the limitations of my own imagination.”

“Of all the things I’ve done, the most vital is coordinating the talents of those who work for us and pointing them toward a certain goal.”

“All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles have strengthened me.”

“Get a good idea, and stay with it. Dog it, and work at it until it’s done, and done right.”

“People often ask me if I know the secret of success and if I could tell others how to make their dreams come true. My answer is, you do it by working.”

“If you can dream it, you can do it.”

For more Walt Disney quotes, visit www.orlando-florida.net.

The Beginning is home to a truly spectacular, Bricktacular sight – a more than 30-foot-tall LEGO Christmas tree made with a combination of 270,000 forest green LEGO and DUPLO® bricks. The park’s first-ever tree lighting ceremony takes place on Dec. 5 with a special master of ceremonies. Through Dec. 31, a special family will be chosen to help light the Bricktacular tree each night.

Santa Claus even makes special daily appearances in the historical botanical gardens making a picture perfect spot to capture family memories sure to be treasured for years to come.
Kids’ New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31 let’s kids rock out and watch the sky explode with LEGO fireworks at just the right time for them, midnight KST (Kid Standard Time) – otherwise known as 7 p.m. EST.

Holiday events are included in park admission. Tickets and Annual Passes for LEGOLAND Florida are available at www.LEGOLAND.com
LEGOLAND® Florida is a 150-acre interactive theme park dedicated to families with children between the ages of 2 and 12. With more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, LEGOLAND is geared towards family fun! There are currently four other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark, LEGOLAND Deutschland near Günzburg, Germany and LEGOLAND Windsor outside of London. The LEGOLAND theme parks are a part of Merlin Entertainments Group, the second largest attractions operator in the world. For the most current information, log on to www.LEGOLAND.com.

MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS is the leading name in location-based, family entertainment, and has seen the most successful and dynamic growth of any company in the sector over the last five years. Europe’s Number 1 and the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 78 attractions, six hotels/two holiday villages in 17 countries and across four continents. The company aims to deliver memorable and rewarding experiences to its 43.6 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its managers and more than 15,000 employees. Merlin Entertainments operates the following attractions – SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND, The EDF Energy London Eye, Dungeons, Gardaland, LEGOLAND Discovery Centres, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Heide Park, Earth Explorer, Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Wildlife World, Sydney Tower Observatory and Skywalk, Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter Underwater World, Oceanworld Manly and Hamilton Island Koala Gallery. All brands which are distinctive, challenging and innovative – and which have great potential for growth in the future. Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Westgate Blue Tree Resort
Westgate Leisure Resort
Westgate Palace
Westgate River Ranch
Westgate Towers
Westgate Town Center
Westgate Vacation Villas
Club Orlando
The Seasons
Westgate Branson Woods Resort
Westgate Branson Lakes at Emerald Pointe
Harbour Beach Resort
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa
Westgate Flamingo Bay
Westgate Painted Mountain
Westgate South Beach
Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort
Westgate Tunica
Westgate Historic Williamsburg
Westgate Park City Resort & Spa

• Studio $139 ($69.50 per night)
• 1 Bedroom $179 ($89.50 per night)
• 2 Bedroom $209 ($104.50 per night)

Must book on Black Friday (November 25, 2011) only for travel thru December 21, 2012. Offer is subject to black-out dates and rate plan availability. Must stay a minimum of 2 nights. Normal deposit and cancellation policies apply. Offer is valid for participating properties only. For more information, visit www.westgatedestinations.com/blackfridaymonday.

Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Westgate Blue Tree Resort
Westgate Leisure Resort
Westgate Palace
Westgate River Ranch
Westgate Towers
Westgate Town Center
Westgate Vacation Villas
Westgate Branson Woods Resort
Westgate Branson Lakes at Emerald Pointe
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa
Westgate Flamingo Bay
Westgate Painted Mountain
Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort
Westgate Historic Williamsburg

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park – On 19 special nights, holiday revelers can delight during this cheery, family-friendly event. Party-goers embrace the joys of the season – sipping cocoa, catching a “snowflake” and enjoying merry shows, fireworks, carolers and special character meet and greets.

This after-hours party on select nights between Nov. 8 and Dec. 18, 2011, features a sleigh full of merriment:

•An enchanting Cinderella Castle adorned with Castle Dream Lights (through Jan.8)
•Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, complete with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself, and for the first time Duffy the Disney Bear.
•An exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza — Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
•Live entertainment featuring Disney characters
•Meet and greet opportunities with favorite Disney characters in Holiday attire, including Phineas & Ferb in Tomorrowland, the Seven Dwarfs in Frontierland and Duffy the  Disney Bear in Town Square.
•Complimentary cookies, apple slices and hot cocoa
•A magical snow fall on Main Street, U.S.A.
•Many popular Magic Kingdom attractions open for fun

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will take place Nov. 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 27, 29, 30, Dec. 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16 and 18, 2011, from 7 p.m. until midnight. Day-of-event pricing is $62.95 and $57.95 for ages 3 to 9. Savings of $6 per ticket are available if tickets are purchased in advance. Visit www.Disneyworld.com/holidays.

The Beginning
Island in the Sky

Duplo Village
Big Rig Rally
DUPLO Farm
Granny’s Jalopies
Junior Fire Academy

Fun Town
Conservatory (coming soon)
Factory Tour
The Grand Carousel
Wells Fargo Fun Town 4D Theater

Imagination Zone
Build & Test
Hero Factory
Kid Power Towers
LEGO MINDSTORMS

Land of Adventure
Adventure Games
Beetle Bounce
Coastersaurus
Lost Kingdom Adventure
Pharaoh’s Revenge
Safari Trek

Lego City
Big Test Live Show
Boating School
Flying School
FORD Driving School
FORD Jr. Driving School
Rescue Academy

Lego Kingdoms
Castle Stage
The Dragon
The Forestmen’s Hideout
Jester’s Games
Merlin’s Challenge
Royal Joust

Lego Technic
AQUAZONE Wave Racers
Extreme Games
Technicycle
Test Track

Miniland
California
Daytona International Speedway
Florida
Kennedy Space Center
Las Vegas
New York
Pirate’s Shores
Washington D.C.

Pirates’ Cove
Pirates’ Cove Live Water Ski Show
Special Events Venue

 Visit http://florida.legoland.com for more information about LEGOLAND Florida.

An authentic dude ranch, Westgate River Ranch lies less than 40 miles from LEGOLAND Florida. Onsite amenities at Westgate River Ranch include the Smokehouse Grill Restaurant, a full-service marina, Saturday night rodeo, horseback riding, nine-hole golf course, outdoor pool, miniature golf, airboat and swamp buggy rides, River Ranch Saloon, skeet/trap shooting range, hay rides, general store with deli and wedding chapel. For more information about Westgate River Ranch, visit www.wgriverranch.com.

Add Halloween Horror Nights tickets to your Orlando vacation package through Westgate Resorts! Visit www.wglakes.com/westgate-lakes-universal-partner-resort.html for details.

Through this special, limited-time Military Appreciation Offer, U.S. soldiers (and their families) who have served in The War on Terror, Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom can book a complimentary weekday stay in a king studio villa at one of Westgate’s full-service resorts in Orlando, Florida. Minutes away from world-class area attractions including Walt Disney World® Resort & Universal Orlando®, Westgate offers convenient access to exciting entertainment options for a memorable Orlando family vacation. 

“Having served in the armed forces myself, I am extremely proud of the American tradition of service that endures even today,” said David A. Siegel, Westgate Resorts founder and CEO. “I consider it a privilege to provide 1,000 complimentary vacations to our most deserving American heroes.”

The first 1,000 military personnel to call in beginning at 9 a.m. EDT on October 11th will receive the complimentary Orlando resort stay. With over 6,000 villas in Orlando alone, the beautifully decorated king villa studios at Westgate Resorts feature kitchenettes with microwaves and mini refrigerators, queen sleeper sofas, 27-inch color TVs with DVD players, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies or patios. Onsite amenities at most Westgate Resort locations include outdoor pools, hot tubs, restaurants, delis/marketplaces, game rooms and daily children’s activities.

To take advantage of this exclusive Military Appreciation Offer from Westgate Resorts, simply call 1-800-887-9312 on October 11th at 9 a.m. EDT and enjoy an unforgettable vacation getaway courtesy of Westgate Resorts!

About Westgate Resorts
One of the largest resort developers in the United States, Westgate Resorts features luxury resorts in eleven premier travel destinations throughout the United States with over 12,000 units in locations like Orlando, Florida; Park City, Utah; Las Vegas, Nevada; Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Williamsburg, Virginia; Miami, Florida; Branson, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; and Tunica, Mississippi. Founded in 1982 by David A. Siegel, Westgate Resorts boasts affordable luxury vacation accommodations. For more information about Westgate Resorts, visit www.westgatedestinations.com.

*Terms & Conditions: Offer is for studio only and based on availability. Must stay between Sunday – Thursday only. A credit card is required only to hold the reservation. Offer only available by phone. Must travel by December 20th. Thanksgiving Week not available. Offer good for the first 1,000 active military personnel who served in the campaigns above. Proof of active or retired duty required at check-in.  Limit one per customer. Employees of Central Florida Investments/Westgate Resorts not eligible for this promotion. No resort preview required for the stay. Villa upgrades are also available at a nominal cost. Additional nights can be purchased at the Military Discount of 10% off of the Best Available Rate.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is scheduled to return to Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park for 23 select nights between September 13 and November 1, 2011. The after-hours Magic Kingdom party will feature Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade and the “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks spectacular, as well as trick-or-treating, meet and greets, and more. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates for 2011 are September 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 and 30; October 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30 and 31 and November 1. Visit www.disneyworld.com/halloween or call 407/W-DISNEY to purchase advance tickets.

Seeking great deals on accommodations in Orlando? Check out the latest specials at Westgate Resorts! Visit www.westgatedestinations.com for more information.

For 25 nights beginning September 23, Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights returns as the nation’s best and most intense Halloween event. Guests will confront extreme Halloween entertainment that cannot be experienced anywhere else. This year, they will scream as they become prey to fiendish creatures, panic as they come face-to-face with a horrifying “thing,” feel chills as they are haunted by deceased souls – and watch in paralyzing fear as Lady Luck transforms from a tempting seductress to a bloodthirsty beast. Lady Luck is the force behind this year’s event, and she awaits those brave enough to challenge her and take a chance. Her main weapon is choice, and her desire is for you to make yours. But no matter what you decide, you can’t escape the terror she has in store at Halloween Horror Nights 21. For a detailed listing of each haunted house, scarezone and show featured at this year’s event, see below. Halloween Horror Nights runs September 23-24, September 29-30, October 1-2, 6-9, 13-16, 19-23 and 26-31. Tickets and vacation packages are on sale now and can be purchased at www.halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando. Due to the event’s popularity, tickets for weekend nights are expected to sell out and should be purchased well in advance. Guests can get updates and exclusive details on Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights on the event’s official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/halloweenhorrornightsorlando) and Twitter handle (www.twitter.com@UORHHN).

Seeking great deals on accommodations in Orlando? Check out the latest specials at Westgate Resorts! Visit www.westgatedestinations.com for more information.

2011 Orlando Home Show
October 7-9, 2011
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida
Enjoy interesting exhibits, talk to home improvement experts and listen to special guest speakers at the Orlando area’s largest home design and landscaping showcase, which will take place at the Orange County Convention Center.

2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 30 – November 13, 2011
Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Take an eclectic tour of the world at the 2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival as you sample delicious foods and fine wines during this international culinary celebration, which also offers nightly Eat to the Beat! concerts, celebrity-che cooking demonstrations, children’s activities and the talents of street performers from acrobats to musicians.

2011 Halloween Horror Nights
Select Nights Between September 23 & October 31, 2011
Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is the largest Halloween event in the United States and spread out over both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Events at the month-long fright fest include specialty designed haunted houses and mazes, inescapable scare zones, a Halloween parade, thrilling shows and live music, as well as an assortment of wandering ghouls, zombies, demons, werewolves, ghosts, goblins and vampires.

2011 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Select Nights September through November 2011
Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida
This after-hours extravaganza at Disney’s Magic Kingdom allows guests to dress up in Halloween costumes and also features the “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade and the “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks spectacular. There’s trick-or-treating as well and also the opportunity to enjoy rides and attractions from 7 PM to midnight.

2011 SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular
TBA, 2011
SeaWorld Orlando, Orlando, Florida
Halloween meets the sea at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, carving an underwater “fantasea” where children can dance with an ice DJ, learn from a school of fish and play with a sea fairy. SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular uniquely brings children’s “fantaseas” to life with enchanted pathways and charming sea creatures, providing the utmost in family-friendly trick-or-treating.

2011 Children’s Miracle Network Classic
October 17-23, 2011
Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
One of the most popular events on the PGA Tour, the Children’s Miracle Network Classic at Walt Disney World Resort has served as an annual tradition since 1971, the same year Disney World opened its doors. The Children’s Miracle Network Classic, takes place at Disney’s championship Palm and Magnolia courses.

2011 Festival of the Masters
November 11-13, 2011
Downtown Disney, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Festival of the Masters at Walt Disney World Resort is simply one of the most acclaimed open-air art festivals in the United States. Approximately 150 award-winning artists display their diverse wares at this immense outdoor showcase at Downtown Disney that also includes live entertainment, culinary offerings and children’s activities, as well as the House of Blues Folk Art Festival.

Good sources for more information on upcoming Orlando festivals and events include the “Orlando Seasonal Events” section of the Orlando, Florida Guide, as well as the Friday entertainment sections of the Orlando Sentinel and the Orlando Weekly, a weekly arts and entertainment publication.

Seeking spacious and affordable accommodations during your Orlando vacation getaway this fall? Look no farther than Westgate Resorts, which offers spacious suites, abundant amenities and convenient access to Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando theme parks, as well as other Orlando area attractions. Choose from Westgate Resorts properties such as Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, Westgate Leisure Resort, Westgate Palace, Westgate Towers, Westgate Town Center and Westgate Vacation Villas. For more information about Westgate Resorts, visit www.westgatedestinations.com.

2011 Way Of Grace Fest A Fall
6pm – Saturday October 29, 2011
8550 Clarcona-Ocoee Road, Orlando, FL 32818
A Free Community Event
Fest-A-Fall is the annual Way Of Grace Ministries Orlando Fall Festivals. It is a FREE community event. A night of family fun and enjoyment for young and old alike, Fest-A-Fall includes: Games, Food, Hay Rides, Bouncy Houses, A Fun House Campfire with S’mores, Trunk-Or-Treat, A Pumpkin Carving Competition, Face Painting …and much more And best of all…It’s FREE! Fest-A-Fall takes place on Saturday, October 29, 2011 on the grounds of Way Of Grace Ministries at: 8550 Clarcona Ocoee Rd, Orlando, FL 32818 and starts at 6pm.

Universal Orlando Resort will feature Spin Doctors as part of its ‘Velvet Sessions’ series at Hard Rock Hotel on Thursday, August 25, 2011, at 6:30 PM. The band will perform such hits as ”Two Princes,” “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong,” “Cleopatra’s Cat,” “Jimmy Olsen’s Blues,” “What Time Is It?”, “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” and more. Velvet Sessions is Hard Rock Hotel’s special rock ‘n’ roll cocktail party and lobby concert held the last Thursday of the month (January through October). Tickets include free specialty drinks, finger foods and warm-up tunes from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Cash bars and live band from 8:30 PM onward. Tickets are $29 online (ticketing fees apply) or $35 at the door. Valet parking is complimentary for those attending Velvet Sessions, which is a 21 and older event. Visit velvetsessions.com for more information.

The roster of Christian music acts at the 2011 NIght of Joy includes newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Skillet, Matthew West, Francesca Battistelli, Group 1 Crew, Sidewalk Prophets, Disciple, MercyMe, TobyMac, Jars of Clay, Marvin Sapp, Sanctus Real, Kutless, Chris August and VaShawn Mitchell.

One- and two-night tickets are available to Night of Joy but act quickly since they often sell out in advance. A one-night ticket to Night of Joy costs $51.95 plus tax in advance and $59.95 plus tax on the day of the event. A two-night ticket to Night of Joy costs $92.95 (advance purchase only). For more information about Night of Joy, visit http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/special-events/night-of-joy.

Quality accommodations on or near Disney World property are available for Night of Joy weekend if you book as soon as possible. For great deals on comfortable accommodations that provide easy access to Walt Disney World Resort, consider Westgate Resorts. For more information about Westgate Reosrts, visit www.westgatedestinations.com.

Night of Joy – Friday, September 9, 2011*:
newsboys
Jeremy Camp
Skillet
Matthew West
Francesca Battistelli
Group 1 Crew
Sidewalk Prophets
Disciple

Night of Joy – Saturday, September 10, 2011*:
MercyMe
TobyMac
Jars of Clay
Marvin Sapp
Sanctus Real
Kutless
Chris August
VaShawn Mitchell

*Night of Joy entertainment is subject to change without notice.

The roster of Christian music acts at the 2011 NIght of Joy includes newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Skillet, Matthew West, Francesca Battistelli, Group 1 Crew, Sidewalk Prophets, Disciple, MercyMe, TobyMac, Jars of Clay, Marvin Sapp, Sanctus Real, Kutless, Chris August and VaShawn Mitchell.

One- and two-night tickets are available to Night of Joy but act quickly since they often sell out in advance. A one-night ticket to Night of Joy costs $51.95 plus tax in advance and $59.95 plus tax on the day of the event. A two-night ticket to Night of Joy costs $92.95 (advance purchase only). For more information about Night of Joy, visit http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/special-events/night-of-joy.

Quality accommodations on or near Disney World property are available for Night of Joy weekend if you book as soon as possible. For great deals on comfortable accommodations that provide easy access to Walt Disney World Resort, consider Westgate Resorts. For more information about Westgate Reosrts, visit www.westgatedestinations.com.

Night of Joy – Friday, September 9, 2011*:
newsboys
Jeremy Camp
Skillet
Matthew West
Francesca Battistelli
Group 1 Crew
Sidewalk Prophets
Disciple

Night of Joy – Saturday, September 10, 2011*:
MercyMe
TobyMac
Jars of Clay
Marvin Sapp
Sanctus Real
Kutless
Chris August
VaShawn Mitchell

*Night of Joy entertainment is subject to change without notice.

Universal Orlando Resort will feature The Fixx as part of its ‘Velvet Sessions’ series at Hard Rock Hotel on Thursday, July 28, 2011, at 6:30 PM. The band will perform all of their classic hits such as ”Are We Ourselves,” “The Fool,” “One Thing Leads to Another,” “Red Skies,” “Secret Separation,” “Saved By Zero,” “Deeper and Deeper” and more. Velvet Sessions is Hard Rock Hotel’s special rock ‘n’ roll cocktail party and lobby concert held the last Thursday of the month (January through October). Tickets include free specialty drinks, finger foods and warm-up tunes from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Cash bars and live band from 8:30 PM onward. Tickets are $29 online (ticketing fees apply) or $35 at the door. Valet parking is complimentary for those attending Velvet Sessions, which is a 21 and older event. Visit velvetsessions.com for more information.

Disney’s Celebrate America!
Disney’s Magic Kingdom
July 3 & 4, 2011
www.disneyworld.com

Fireworks at the Fountain
Lake Eola Park, Downtown Orlando
July 4, 2011
www.cityoforlando.net

The Heartbeat of Freedom
Epcot
July 4, 2011
www.disneyworld.com

Red Hot & Boom
Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs
July 3, 2011
www.xl1067.com/pages/redhotboom.html

Rockin’ 4th of July Celebration
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
July 4, 2011
www.disneyworld.com

SeaWorld’s Fourth of July
SeaWorld Orlando
July 4, 2011
www.seaworldorlando.com

Summer Concert Series featuring Trey Songz
Universal Studios Florida
July 2, 2011
www.universalorlando.com

The 2011 Red Hot & Boom! Independence Day celebration will take place at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs on Sunday, July 3, 2011. Sponsored by the City of Altamonte Springs and XL 106.7 FM, the event will take place between 4 PM and 11 PM and feature live music, food and beverage booths and an incredible fireworks display at 9:30 PM. Scheduled entertainers include Paper Tongues, Mat Kearney, Shontelle, Cody Simpson, All Star Weekend, Hot Chelle Rae and Sound Express. Admission is free. Note: Coolers, pets and personal fireworks are prohibited. For more information about 2011 Red Hot & Boom!, visit http://www.uptownaltamonte.com or www.xl1067.com/pages/redhotboom.html.

1. Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park – 16.9 million visitors

2. Disneyland – 15.9 million visitors

3. Epcot – 10.8 million visitors

4. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park - 9.7 million visitors

5. Disney’s Hollywood Studios – 9.6 million visitors

6. Disney’s California Adventure – 6.2 million visitors

7. Universal’s Islands of Adventure – 5.9 million visitors

8. Universal Studios Florida – 5.9 million visitors

9. SeaWorld Orlando – 5.1 million visitors

10. Universal Studios Hollywood – 5.0 million visitors

Sources: AECOM/Themed Entertainment Association

Billed as “the ultimate fan experience,” Star Wars Celebration VI will take place August 23-26, 2012, at the Orange County Convention Center (9800 International Drive) in Orlando, Florida. Highlights will include costuming workshops, academic discussions, behind-the-scenes insights, fan films, sneak peeks at the future of Star Wars, panels, screenings and special events. For more information, visit www.starwarscelebration.com.

o   June 12 – June 18: Hotel California — A Salute to the Eagles

o   June 19 – June 25: Stayin’ Alive — A Tribute to the Bee Gees

o   June 26 – July 2: Slippery When Wet — The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute

o   July 3 – July 9: Little Queen — The Music of Heart

o   July 10 – July 16: Frontiers — A Tribute to Journey

o   July 17 – July 23: Karin Lawson — A Tribute to Janet Jackson

o   July 24 – July 30: 2U — A Tribute to U2

*Summer concerts are included with Epcot admission*

For more information, visit www.disneyworld.com.

Universal Orlando announced today that its newest attraction will be based on the blockbuster 3-D CGI feature Despicable Me – “bringing minions, mayhem and a whole new level of 3-D family fun to its guests.” The new “Despicable Me” attraction will replace the Jimmy Neutron attraction at Universal Studios Florida. In addition, Universal announced that one its most popular rides, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, will be completely reanimated in 4K digital high definition. Both will open in 2012 and utilize brand-new, highly sophisticated Infitec 3-D projection systems designed to make the experience sharper, clearer and more “real” than ever before.

With a worldwide gross of more than $540 million, 2010′s Despicable Me is the sixth most successful film that Universal Pictures has ever distributed. It is now the 10th-biggest animated film in U.S. history. “Despicable Me” will be the first-ever Universal animated film to be transformed into a theme park experience. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com.

• The Go-Go’s – June 11, 2011
• Nelly – June 18, 2011
• Third Eye Blind – June 26, 2011
• Trey Songz – July 2, 2011
• Boys Like Girls – July 9, 2011
• Drake – July 16, 2011

Ticket prices are included in regular park admisison. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Guests of the full-service Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa enjoy spacious accommodations along with a multitude of family-friendly amenities such as numerous swimming pools, hot tubs, children’s wading pools, basketball and volleyball courts, fitness center, tennis courts, lakeside dock and marina, miniature golf, bicycle rentals, game room, Kid’s Club and a full schedule of family activities.

After a fun-filled day exploring nearby theme parks, relax and unwind at the world-class Serenity Spa by Westgate, which boasts a full menu of rejunvenating spa treatments. Enjoy a hearty meal at the award-winning Westgate Smokehouse Grill, “home of Orlando’s best BBQ,” which is open for breakfast and dinner daily. Seeking a quick meal on the go? Westgate Lakes provides the convenience of Sid’s Deli and Pizza Hut Express for pick up or delivery, as well as the Marketplace, which sells groceries, beer, wine, gifts and sundries.

For more information about Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, visit www.wglakes.com.

10. Boston
9. Cancun
8. Chicago
7. San Francisco
6. New York City
5. Denver
4. Los Angeles
3. Seattle
2. Las Vegas
1. Orlando

Seeking great deals on spacious, comfortable accommodations that provide convenient access to Orlando area theme parks such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando? Look no farther than Westgate Resorts! For more information about Westgate Resorts, visit www.westgatedestinations.com.

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Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando’s lobby concert series continues in May with Live’s Ed Kowalczyk performing hits “I Alone,” “Lightning Crashes,” “Overcome,” “All Over You,” “The Dolphin’s Cry,” “Pain Lies On The Riverside” and more. Velvet Sessions is Hard Rock Hotel’s special rock ‘n’ roll cocktail party and lobby concert held the last Thursday of the month (January through October).  Visit www.VelvetSessions.com to buy your tickets and receive monthly updates on who’s playing. A Velvet Sessions tickets includes: FREE specialty drinks, finger foods and warm-up tunes from 6:30 pm until show time, cash bars and live band from show time onward and complimentary valet parking*. Velvet Sessions is a 21 and older event.
 
WHEN:
Thursday, May 26, 2011
6:30 pm
 
WHERE:
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
5800 Universal Boulevard
Orlando, Florida  32819-7834
 
TICKETS:
Velvet Sessions tickets are $29 on-line** at http://bit.ly/VS0511tix or $35 at the door.

Limited VIP tickets are $50 on-line** only at http://bit.ly/VS0511vip and includes all the benefits of a regular Velvet Sessions ticket, plus access to a special viewing area with private bar.

Purchase tickets on-line and receive early entry at 6:00 pm.

Log onto www.VelvetSessions.com or call 407-503-2401 for more information.

Star Wars Weekends will take place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 20 through June 12, 2011. Dates are May 20-22, May 27-29, June 3-5 and June 10-12, 2011. In addition to the new attraction, Star Tours – The Adventure Continues, Star Wars Weekends will feature Star Wars characters, meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, Jedi Training Academy, Star Wars parades and the ever-popular “Hyperspace Hoopla” dance party. Activities are included in theme park admission. For more information about Star Wars Weekends, visit www.disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.com.

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Star Wars Weekends will take place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 20 through June 12, 2011. Dates are May 20-22, May 27-29, June 3-5 and June 10-12, 2011. In addition to the new attraction, Star Tours – The Adventure Continues, Star Wars Weekends will feature Star Wars characters, meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, Star Wars memorabilia, Star Wars trivia contests, Jedi Training Academy, Star Wars parades and the ever-popular “Hyperspace Hoopla” dance party. Activities are included in theme park admission. For more information about Star Wars Weekends, visit www.disneyworld.com/starwarsweekends.com.

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1. Honeymoon Island - 1,043,336
2. Sebastian Inlet – 749,407
3. Lovers Key – 731,242
4. Gasparilla Island – 713,625
5. Bill Baggs Cape Florida – 710,282
6. St. Andrews – 683,201
7. John Pennekamp Coral Reef – 678,952
8. Anastasia – 610,057
9. Blue Spring – 559,369
10. Bahia Honda – 495,653
11. Stump Pass Beach – 465,147
12. John U. Lloyd Beach – 448,012
13. Crystal River Preserve – 394,253
14. Delnor-Wiggins Pass – 389,123
15. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic – 378,701
16. Myakka River – 340,330
17. Oleta River – 307,141
18. Fanning Springs – 304,337
19. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife – 292,829
20. De Leon Springs – 254,191
21. Caladesi Island – 252,640
22. Rainbow Springs – 251,842
23. Hugh Taylor Birch – 251,543
24. Wekiwa Springs – 248,890
25. Silver River – 229,729

For more information about Florida travel, visit www.orlando-florida.net.

1. Honeymoon Island - 1,043,336
2. Sebastian Inlet – 749,407
3. Lovers Key – 731,242
4. Gasparilla Island – 713,625
5. Bill Baggs Cape Florida – 710,282
6. St. Andrews – 683,201
7. John Pennekamp Coral Reef – 678,952
8. Anastasia – 610,057
9. Blue Spring – 559,369
10. Bahia Honda – 495,653
11. Stump Pass Beach – 465,147
12. John U. Lloyd Beach – 448,012
13. Crystal River Preserve – 394,253
14. Delnor-Wiggins Pass – 389,123
15. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic – 378,701
16. Myakka River – 340,330
17. Oleta River – 307,141
18. Fanning Springs – 304,337
19. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife – 292,829
20. De Leon Springs – 254,191
21. Caladesi Island – 252,640
22. Rainbow Springs – 251,842
23. Hugh Taylor Birch – 251,543
24. Wekiwa Springs – 248,890
25. Silver River – 229,729

For more information about Florida travel, visit www.orlando-florida.net.