IT’S OFFICIAL! Santa has voted the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin his all-time favorite resort!

It's been a busy year for Santa and his elves preparing for the upcoming holiday season, so he has decided to take a little vacation during the month of December and chill out at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin!

Santa says our Heavenly Beds are just the right thing to get him rested up enough for the big flight on Christmas Eve. Mrs. Claus loves the fact that Santa can pick from so many types of restaurants featuring cuisines from around the world.

He loves hangin' out by the awesome grotto pool where he can sit and soak up some sunshine or jam-out to the tunes; all the while sipping on a nice cool drink and enjoying some lunchtime favorites served just steps from the pool and white sand beach.

Of course, he’s looking forward to making some special guest appearances while here! On select days, you will find Santa returning from the golf course in his Florida sleigh and visiting with resort guests in his special Florida tiki hut, located on the causeway between the Swan and the Dolphin. There’s going to be lots of photo opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else, so bring your cameras and get ready to party Florida style with Santa!!!

Santa will be visiting Disneys Swan and Dolphin nightly Thursday - Sunday from December 3 - 20, and on Dec. 21 - 23, 2009.

Dine in one of three signature restaurants (Todd English’s bluezoo, Il Mulino New York Trattoria, or Shula’s Steak House) and receive a FREE PHOTO with Florida Santa! Photo with Santa must be taken in advance of dining. One free photo per table.

It's Holiday Time at Walt Disney World, FL

Visitors to Walt Disney World can attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, a separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom, which new for 2009 includes a new stage show, "A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas!" Also at Magic Kingdom, Cinderella Castle is adorned with 200,000 sparkling crystals as part of the Castle Dreamlights holiday display; the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights offers colorful lit-up and animated displays at Disneys Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM Studios).

You can check out the wonderful Christmas celebrations at the Disney hotels including a lifesize, 16-foot-high gingerbread house in the lobby of Disneys Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Learn about international traditions at Holidays Around the World at Epcot, and hear the Christmas story told by celebrity narrators like Whoopi Goldberg and Abigail Breslin, with a choir and live orchestra, as part of the Candlelight Processional.

For a truly dazzling Christmas light spectacular, see the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. Watch literally millions of colourful lights dance to a rousing score of powerful holiday music along The Streets of America section of the park. uildings come to life with a brilliant glow, carousels twirl, flashing Christmas trees dance and even Santa’s sleigh shoots across the sky!

It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays on your Orlando vacation!

See this link for details http://www.disneyworld.com/holidays.

Universal Studios, Orlando is having some great Christmas holiday events going on now through New Years. Some of the highlights include:
Dec. 4-6, 10-13, 17-30, & Jan. 1-2 you and the family can have breakfast with the Grinch and friends at a holiday character breakfast at Confisco Grille in Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park.

Enjoy fluffy eggs, fresh fruit, cinnamon French toast, meats and more with The Grinch, The Whos and The Cat In The Hat. Please note: this event is not included in your regular theme park ticket.

At both Universal’s Islands Of Adventure park and Universal Studios Florida there will be The Grinch Meet and Greet stations as the Grinch dresses up as Santa Claus. Shake his hand and get your kids picture taken with him, every day now till Christmas.

At Universal’s Islands Of Adventure theme park Seuss Landing is once again transformed into the wintry wonderland of Grinchmas! This live musical show “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” stars the Grinch himself and a whole town of singing Whos.

he Whoville Wonky Tree Lot has also been decked out for the holidays with their own special Whoville Christmas decorations. Show times Dec. 5 – Dec. 25: 12p, 1p, 2p, 3:30p, 4:30p, 5:30p; Dec. 26 – Jan. 1: 2p, 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 6:30p, 7:30p

Universal Studios is also having a Holiday Concert Series in Universal Studios’ new Music Plaza. Three nights will feature a popular music performer singing holiday songs.

Dec. 5th: Mannheim Steamroller
Dec. 12th: Chris Isaak
Dec 19th: Natalie Cole

Inside the Universal Studios Florida theme park throughout the Holiday season see Macy’s holiday parade featuring authentic floats and balloons from the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade.

Then afterwards stay for a spectacular tree lighting ceremony with music and fantastic lights. There will be several holiday shows throughout the park each day with your favorite Universal Studios characters.

Finally from Dec. 26th to the 31st wrap up the night with a fantastic show featuring Universal’s 360–A Cinesphere Spectacular.

It features Hollywood’s biggest films projected onto huge spheres in the Universal Studios lagoon, plus one of the largest laser displays in Florida, dazzling pyrotechnics and more!

So if you love Universal Studios Orlando theme park, don’t miss out on the holiday special events going on now through New Year’s day!

On Dec 31 you can see the New Year in at Citywalk, and have a meal and see 2010 while with fireworks! Plus The Four Tops and The Drifters will offer entertainment.

Smuckers Starts on Ice - April 3 2010 - Amway Arena

Fresh off the ice in Vancouver, the Stars will bring the excitement
of their performances directly to the Amway Arena.

The Smucker's Stars on Ice Tour captures their spirit as
it visits Orlando, FL for one night only!

APRIL 3, 2010 - 7:30 PM
AMWAY ARENA

Don't miss your chance to see Olympic Silver Medalist SASHA COHEN,
2009 World Champion EVAN LYSACEK, Olympic Silver Medalists
TANITH BELBIN & BEN AGOSTO, World Champion TODD ELDREDGE,
three-time U.S. Champion MICHAEL WEISS and more of the world's
best skaters in this magical combination of athleticism, artistry
and great music - all in one show!

UPCOMING CONCERTS IN SOUTH FLORIDA

Dec 12 | Less Than Jake with Cage and The Swellers | Revolution Live | Ft Lauderdale, FL
Dec 26 | Nonpoint | Revolution Live | Ft Lauderdale, FL
Dec 28-31 | Phish | AmericanAirlines Arena | Miami, FL
Jan 9 | Galactic and JJ Grey & Mofro | Revolution Live | Ft Lauderdale, FL
Jan 14 | La Quinta Estacion | The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater | Miami Beach, FL
Jan 16 | Miami Contemporary Dance Company | The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater
Feb 11 | Chico Castillo | The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater | Miami Beach, FL
Feb 13 | Willy Chirino | The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater | Miami Beach, FL
Feb 20 | Jay-Z with Young Jeezy | BankAtlantic Center | Sunrise, FL

Gucci campaign to support UNICEF

Gucci for UNICEF

Gucci is pleased to announce its 5th anniversary Gucci Campaign to Benefit UNICEF. An original holiday collection of items, designed by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, will be exclusively sold in over 200 Gucci stores worldwide and on Gucci.com. Gucci will donate 25% of the retail price of each item sold from November 16 through December 31, 2009, to support UNICEF programs that benefit orphans and vulnerable children in sub-Saharan Africa.

Snowman in Africa, by Michael Roberts will be exclusively on sale in Gucci stores for a retail price of $25. Gucci will donate 100% of the retail price of the book to UNICEF. ifth “Gucci Campaign to Benefit UNICEF” is over, Gucci’s creative director Frida Giannini teamed up with writer & illustrator Michael Roberts to publish a children’s book “Snow man in Africa”.

This colourful big format book is the ending of “Snow man in Paradise” which was published in 2004 by Roberts. “Snow man in Africa” both sales in 200 Gucci stores all over the world and Gucci.com,the price is 25 dollars. All the proceeds will be donated to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

“This book brings children much funny” Frida Giannini said: “Roberts has a ability to communicate with heart of children,he accepted my invitation without any hesitation,”

Michael Roberts is happy that his snowman appears again,he said: “Thanks to Gucci and UNICFE, Snowman has a chance to travel around the world once again,he has gone to Africa this time.”

Gucci Joy handbags feature distinctive and whimsical illustrations in a rich appliqué version and a sportier print version. Symbolic charms representing characters from the book, Snowman in Africa, act as key rings or add-on charms to any accessory. The collection also features a playful, animated print on small leather goods, including a wrist wallet and coin purse. New for this year's campaign is the launch of a special edition Gift Card benefiting UNICEF, which ranges in value from $50 - $5,000.

Check out the Gucci store at the Mall at Millennia

Michael Buble @ Amway Arena Mar 10 2010

Michael Buble plays Amway Arena, Orlando on Mar 10 2010, only a few tickets still available.

Touring in support of his #1 selling release, "Crazy Love," Michael Bublé has been called "one of the most likeable performers on Earth."His previous tour sold-out in 90 US cities where he performed for over 650,000 fans. Michael's "Crazy Love Tour" will be his biggest and most exciting tour to date. His stage show is propelled by a string of smash hits including "Home," "Everything" and his current single "Haven't Met You Yet," along with Michael's distinctive interpretations of classics like "Cry Me a River," "Stardust," and "You're Nobody 'til Somebody Loves You."

"I"m an entertainer . . . It's what I live for . . . I can't wait to get back on tour.The show will be bombastic, cinematic and at the same time a very intimate experience.And besides, I can't wait to see my fans, I've missed them," said Bublé about returning to performing.
Bublé's new CD "Crazy Love" entered Billboard Top 200 Chart at #1 and remained there for two consecutive weeks. Critics and fans agree that this is his best album to date.

Taylor Swift @ Amway Arena March 5 2010

The Taylor Swift Fearless 2010 Tour wsgs Kellie Pickler and Gloriana comes to the Amway Arena on March 5!

Taylor, who at 19, is the youngest artist in history to be nominated for the Country Music Association’s prestigious Entertainer of the Year Award, will kick off her North American FEARLESS 2010 Tour in Florida. In 2010, Taylor will headline 37 shows in 29 cities in 22 states and provinces in the US and Canada.

Taylor’s good friend, American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler, again joins Taylor as a featured artist on all of the North American FEARLESS dates, and top selling new artist of 2009 Gloriana returns to open all of the shows.

Tickets on sale from October 30 2010.

Jet @ House Of Blues, Orlando Nov 17

Australian group Jet are playing the the House of Blues, Orlando at a re-scheduled date of November 17 2009.

ICE! 2009 @ GAYLORD PALMS, FL Nov 14 2009 - Jan 3 2010

ICE! will return to the Gaylord Palms Resort again this year to chill and thrill guests as part of the resort's holiday celebration. The holiday attraction is one of the coolest and most spectacular in the nation... and it happens in sunny Orlando, Florida.

Hand-carved from nearly two-million pounds of ice, the Christmas attraction has garnered national recognition from USA Today, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Southern Living magazine, and Travel + Leisure magazine.

The popular family experience gives guests a chance to visit a whimsical winter wonderland of interactive environments and larger-than-life, three-dimensional ice monuments and sculptures. The enormous structure used to house ICE! — dubbed "The Florida Fridge" — is cooled to a chilly nine degrees, making it necessary for the resort to provide over-sized parkas for visitors to wear.

This year, chill-seekers will take a trip to the North Pole and tag along on Santa's annual journey through an arctic forest where they will encounter Old Man Winter and step into the middle of a Christmas Carnival, complete with a life-sized carousel! Next, guests will be able to explore Santa's ornament room, climb onto his over-sized knee for an unusual photo op and watch as he and his reindeer take flight.

In its seventh year, “ICE!” will feature the return of the signature scene, a life-size Nativity carved completely of crystal-clear ice. It is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking depictions of the birth of Christ and along with its stirring narrative track gives guests a moment to pause for reflection on the story behind the season.

In addition, this year's Best of Florida Christmas program will include these spectacular events:

ICE! Skating
A holiday tradition common only in northern climates, ice skating may be an oddity in Florida, but this year's outdoor rink will be larger. Skate rentals are included.

Hidden Holiday Gnome Hunt, featuring The Roaming Gnome
Families are invited to hunt throughout the Gaylord Palms atrium to spot cleverly hidden Traveloctiy gnomes.

Visit Santa
Kids can take an opportunity to share their special Christmas wishes with Santa Claus in person or via email.

Christmas in Florida: The County Wreath Collection
Enjoy an exhibition of wreaths decorated to reflect Florida's diverse destinations, from coast to coast.

Brunch with Mrs. Claus
Santa's "better half" hosts brunch at Villa de Flora on the weekends.

Pumpkin Spice and Everthing Nice
Everything is especially nice at Canyon Ranch SpaClub, where guests rejuvenate the body and restore the mind with an aromatic pumpkin, orange and spice holiday facial, pedicure or body wrap. What a great holiday gift for someone you love!

After freezing your "noses and toeses," you'll be ready to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa in the ICE! Cavern, a pre- and post-show area, where the ICE! experience continues. Here additional "Best of Florida Christmas" activities, such as family shows, atmosphere entertainment, special meals and visits with Santa take place.

This is one special holiday event you won't want to miss!

Tiana's Showboat Jubilee!' at Walt Disney World

'Tiana's Showboat Jubilee!' celebrates newest Walt Disney Pictures animated film in the Magic Kingdom

A vibrant and festive atmosphere abounds with the spirited sounds of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayou in "Tiana's Showboat Jubilee!" -- a new, live musical production that takes place on board the "Liberty Belle" riverboat in the Magic Kingdom. The 15-minute performance features an energetic cast of musicians and singers, as well as characters from the Walt Disney Pictures' animated film, "The Princess and the Frog." The limited-engagement show will be presented in the Magic Kingdom from Oct. 26, 2009 to Jan. 3, 2010.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Starting Oct. 26, Walt Disney World guests will be treated to first-ever appearances by Princess Tiana, star of the upcoming Walt Disney Pictures animated feature film “The Princess and the Frog.”

Besides meet-and-greets with guests, Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and other characters from the motion picture will star in “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!,” a rousing, colorful procession with a jazz-filled Mardi Gras theme. The good times will roll as festively dressed, bead-tossing revelers lead Magic Kingdom guests to the Liberty Belle Riverboat dock.

The party moves onboard and the Liberty Belle paddlewheels her way along the river with singing and dancing to the sounds of a six-member jazz band. Nearly two dozen Disney dancers join 30 randomly chosen park guests to be part of each show. Original songs composed by Randy Newman for the film liven the production, which will be performed three times daily. Daytime pyrotechnics and whimsical puppetry round out the spirited, 15-minute production.

The 10-week experience at Walt Disney World Resort will run through Jan. 3, 2010. “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee!” also will dazzle guests at Disneyland Park in California, beginning Nov. 6.

A hilarious movie adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana, “The Princess and the Frog” will open in limited release in New York and Los Angeles on Nov. 25, 2009, before expanding nationwide on Dec. 11, 2009.

Beginning Oct. 15, little princesses can enjoy a new Princess Tiana makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at both the World of Disney store and Magic Kingdom locations at Walt Disney World Resort.

Fairy Godmothers-in-Training sprinkle their pixie dust on aspiring princesses with three makeover packages ranging from a combination of hair, nails and makeup to the royal transformation complete with Princess Tiana costume, tiara, wand and more. All children must be at least three years or older to receive the regal treatments.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Magic Kingdom is open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; theme park admission is required. The Downtown Disney Marketplace salon is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. There is no admission or self-parking fee required at Downtown Disney.

Advance reservations are recommended and can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-STYLE (407/939-7895).

Disney Dining Reservation System returns to 180 days

Disney Dining Reservation System Goes Back To 180 Days

Publish: 2009-10-27 22:32:48 Editor: Channel Source: CP
Disney Dining Reservation System Goes Back To 180 Days

Disney Dining Reservation System Goes Back To 180 Days

Disney Dining Reservation System Goes Back To 180 Days

On October 27, 2009, Disney will accept dining reservations 180 days in advance for most Walt Disney World restaurants. Park hours have been released to match these dates.

Planning ahead is key to enjoying a hassle-free Disney vacation, and Disney's online Advance Dining Reservations system makes the booking process easier than ever. Guests can view all of Disney World's table service restaurants online and make reservations with the click of a mouse.

Advance Dining Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE or by visiting http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/.

Natalie Cole at Universal Studios, FL Dec 19 2009

Natalie Cole, staying strong in the months following her kidney transplant over the summer, has booked a fresh stretch of U.S. concert dates to keep her on the road through the end of 2009. The R&B and jazz vocalist had previously schedule gigs on November 5 at Salem Civic Center in Salem, VA, and November 6 at Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach, VA.

Now Cole has six more shows to add to that list: November 20 at Memorial Auditorium in Sacramento, CA; November 21 at Northern Quest Casino in Airway Heights, WA; December 17-18 at Beau Rivage Resort in Biloxi, MS; December 19 at Universal Studios in Orlando, FL; and December 21 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, FL.

Celebration Farmers' Market - every Sunday

Celebration Farmers’ Market
Hours - Sunday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Celebration Town Center
Find the freshest fruits and vegetables, arts and crafts.

Halloween @ Celebration

Celebration is horrified to announce the inaugural year for:

”The LaVene Family Trail of Nightmares” - a haunted walking trail.

Celebration’s Lakeside Park walking trail will be transformed into the spookiest, scariest walking trail in Central Florida . Plus, for the kids, a “not so scary” hay bale maze and plenty of bounce houses, live entertainment and, of course there will be plenty of “festival style” food and beverage.

hdrTickets2


The LaVene Family Trail of Nightmares hours of operation:


Friday & Saturday October 23 & 24

Thursday, Friday & Saturday October 29, 30 & 31

The Park and Kids activities open at 7:30 pm

Trail of Nightmares opens at 8:00pm


Tickets:

General Admission: $12.00 per person

Discount Admission: $10.00 per person – with 2 non-perishable food items to be donated to Help Now of Osceola

Rainforest Cafe - Downtown Disney

Friends and Family Appreciation Days
Click on the link above to get a $10 discount off a $25 spend - valid until December 31 2009

Halloween Horror Nights 2009

Universal Orlando's Halloween Nights - Sep 25 - Oct 31 2009

Ripped from the Silver Screen

The unforgettable horror movies that made you scream were hours of pulse-pounding fear broken up by moments of sheer heart-stopping terror. Bone-chilling nightmares played out onscreen. Now those terrifying scenes, incredible creatures and blood-curdling moments have now been ripped from the silver screen and brought to life at Halloween Horror Nights

On select nights in September and October, Universal Studios Florida® theme park is transformed into a nightmarish labyrinth of haunted houses, outrageous live shows, and electrifying scare zones while an army of mutants, monsters and maniacs roam the darkened studio streets.


8 All New Haunted Houses
6 All New Scare Zones
2 All New Live Shows

Mary Poppins @ Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center

May 20-June 6
Beginning in May 2010, the world’s most famous nanny will arrive at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Combining the best of the original stories by P. L. Travers and the beloved Walt Disney film, the Tony Award®-winning MARY POPPINS is everything you’d hope for in a Broadway musical – and more.

Produced by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, the show includes such wonderful songs as “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” and, of course, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.”

The NY Daily News hails MARY POPPINS as “a roof-raising, toe-tapping, high-flying extravaganza!”

Don’t miss all the magic of Broadway’s super hit musical. Let your imagination take flight at this perfectly magical musical!

Dec 11 - 20 2009 - Nutcracker @ Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, Orlando

The Nutcracker returns for the holiday season with the Orlando Ballet. Performed by the only professional ballet company in Central Florida, this production shines as brightly as ever with the caliber of performances audiences have come to love and anticipate.

On Christmas Eve, young Clara's family hosts a grand party where she is presented with a Nutcracker by her mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer. That night, she dreams that her Nutcracker is transformed into a handsome prince who takes her to his kingdom, the Land of Sweets. There, she is entertained with lively and exotic dances from other lands. Flowers come to life and the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier perform a breathtaking pas de dux in Clara's honor. As the dream and the magical land fade into the night, Clara wakes in her own room again to realize that her treasured Nutcracker was what brought her dream to life.

Orlando Ballet will perform The Nutcracker at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre December 11-13 and 17-20, 2009. Curtain is at 7:30pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and at 2:30pm on Sunday matinees.

Additionally, there will be a Family Series performance of The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 11:00am. This hour-long, condensed version features all the highlights and is perfect for young audiences. At 10:00am, there will be a series of pre-show activities in the lobby including face-painting, story telling, coloring, photo opportunities with characters from The Nutcracker and basic ballet demonstrations.

For tickets and more information, call 407-426-1739 of visit www.orlandoballet.org.

VacationRentHouses.com

pooh's Playhouse is now included on the new listing site Vacation Rent Houses, check it out if you are looking for a vacation.

Jackson Brown Solo Acoustic Tour

BOB CARR PERFORMING ARTS CENTER NOV 17 2009

Singer-songwriter Jackson Browne kicks off his Fall 2009 Solo Acoustic Tour and plays the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre on November 17 at 8 pm. This is Browne's first solo acoustic tour since early 2008.

The stripped-down, unscripted nature of Browne's intimate solo performances can be experienced through two live albums recorded on previous solo acoustic tours in the U.S., the U.K. and Australia: the GRAMMY®-nominated Jackson Browne – Solo Acoustic, Vol. 1 (2005) and Jackson Browne – Solo Acoustic, Vol. 2 ('08).In his four-star review of Vol. 2 for Rolling Stone, Anthony DeCurtis wrote, "Between songs, Browne speaks about his life and music with moving candor…This is Browne at his best, engaging his audience, his own experiences and the world around him, all in songs that will not lose their resonance any time soon."

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2009

Los Lobos

Celebrating Culinary Adventures from September 25 — November 8, 2009






In 2009, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, presented by Vanity Fair, makes its grand return, transforming the theme park into a destination filled with the world's tastiest regional foods and drinks, rockin' concerts, and unforgettable sensory experiences. Guests will delight in tantalizing new additions — from the robust and exotic flavors of Rio de Janeiro and Bangkok to world-class performers like Richard Marx, Billy Ocean and Vanessa Carlton... who will take the stage at the Festival for the very first time!

Eat to the Beat! Concert Series

Music pairs perfectly with tasty cuisine during nightly Eat to the Beat! Concerts — featuring a varied lineup of classic rock, soul, R&B, oldies, jazz and funk hit–makers. Concerts are performed 3 times each evening at America Gardens Theatre along the World Showcase lagoon. This year, 5 new acts will grace the stage, including Richard Marx, Vanessa Carlton and John Waite. Among the returning acts are Boyz II Men, Kool & The Gang, Los Lobos and many other world-class crowd-pleasers.

Location: World Showcase at Epcot America Gardens Theatre
Show Times: Daily — 5:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.

Please note that theme park admission is required and entertainment is subject to change without notice.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy September 25 — September 27
Richard Marx September 28 — September 29
Starship, Starring Mickey Thomas September 30 — October 3
En Vogue October 4 — October 6
Better Than Ezra October 7 — October 8
Sister Hazel October 9 — October 11
Kool & The Gang October 12 — October 13
Spyro Gyra October 14 — October 16
Jon Secada October 17 — October 18
Sister Sledge October 19 — October 20
Vanessa Carlton October 21 — October 22
Taylor Dayne - Oct 23 - 25
Boyz II Men Oct 26 - 28
John Waite Oct 29 - 31
Taylor Hicks November 1 — November 2
Billy Ocean November 3 — November 5
Los Lobos November 6 — November 8

Walt Disney World - park updates

Recent updates and changes to rides at Walt Disney World, Florida



Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom closed until 21 Nov
Flights of Wonder at Animal Kingdom closed 13 Sep to 23 Oct
Liberty Square Riverboat at Magic Kingdom closed 13 - 19 Sep
Donald's Boat in Toontown at Magic Kingdom closed 7 - 13 Sep
Living with the Land at Epcot closed until 1st Nov

Live concerts - North Florida

Aug 21 | Luis Fonsi | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Aug 22 | Crosby, Stills and Nash | Ruth Eckerd Hall | Clearwater, FL

Aug 22 | Oscar D'Leon with The Latin Project | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Aug 26 | OAR with Brett Dennen | Tampa Bay Perf Arts Ctr Morsani Hall | Tampa, FL

Aug 28 | Motley Crue with Godsmack, Theory of a Deadman,.. | Ford Amphitheatre | Tampa, FL

Aug 28 | OAR with Brett Dennen | St. Augustine Amphitheatre | St. Augustine, FL

Aug 29 | Junkie Rush and B-Liminal with Social Ghost,.. | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 1 | Paolo Nutini with Anya Marina | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 2 | Down with Melvins and Weedeater | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 4 | Depeche Mode | Ford Amphitheatre | Tampa, FL

Sep 4 | Badfish with Scotty Don't and Ballyhoo! | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 5 | Lil Wayne with Young Jeezy, Drake and Soulja.. | Ford Amphitheatre | Tampa, FL

Sep 11 | Pet Shop Boys | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 12 | Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band | Ford Amphitheatre | Tampa, FL

Sep 13 | Secondhand Serenade with Parachute, Evan.. | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 15 | Living Colour | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 16 | Motorhead and Reverend Horton Heat | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 17 | She Wants Revenge with Kill Hannah and Paper.. | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 18 | Mitchel Musso with KSM and Jimmy Robbins | House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL

Sep 20 | Mitchel Musso | State Theatre | St Petersburg, FL

Disney raise ticket prices

Traditionally Disney raise their prices every August, and this year is no exception.
From Sunday 2 August 2009, Disney World increased the base price of a one-day, one-park ticket to $79 -- up $4, or 5.3 percent. The price of a similar ticket for a child between the ages of 3 and 9 will climb $5, or 7.9 percent, to $68.


Prices for the resort's more popular multiday-ticket packages will also rise, climbing between 2.6 percent and 4.7 percent. In keeping with Disney World's strategy of driving guests toward extra days in its parks - rather than those operated by rivals Universal Orlando or SeaWorld Orlando - the smallest increases are reserved for tickets good for four or more days.

Disney will also raise the price of adding a "Park Hopper" feature to any ticket -- which allows a customer to visit multiple Disney parks in one day -- to $52, up from $50. The price of adding a "Water Park Fun & More" feature, which allows admission to secondary venues such as water parks and DisneyQuest, will also rise to $52 from $50.

Still excellent value are tickets from here: http://www.park-tickets.com/?villa=148

forthcoming events - August 2009

Aug 5 Green Day
Amway Arena Orlando, FL
Aug 8 Kenny Chesney
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Aug 8 Hippiefest
Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL
Aug 9 Coldplay with Elbow and Kitty Daisy
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Aug 11 Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival ft. Marilyn Manson &
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa FL
Aug 12 Dave Matthews Band with Robert Earl Keen
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Aug 14 Def Leppard with Poison and special guest Cheap Trick
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Aug 14 Counting Crows with Augustana
St. Augustine Amphitheatre | St. Augustine, FL
Aug 15 Judas Priest with Whitesnake
St. Augustine Amphitheatre St. Augustine, FL
Aug 15 Incubus with The Duke Spirit
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Aug 17 Counting Crows with Spearhead
Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL
Aug 18 Jonas Brothers with Jordin Sparks
St. Pete Times Forum Tampa, FL
Aug 22 Crosby, Stills and Nash
Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL
Aug 26 OAR with Brett Dennen
Tampa Bay Perf Arts Ctr Morsani Hall Tampa, FL
Aug 28 Motley Crue with Godsmack, Theory of a Deadman
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Aug 28 OAR
St. Augustine Amphitheatre St. Augustine, FL

Forthcoming events - July 2009

Jul 11 One Night Stan with Confused Little Girl
House of Blues Orlando | Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 12 Paul Potts
Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL
Jul 12 The Wallflowers
House of Blues Orlando. Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 14 Collective Soul and Gavin DeGraw
House of Blues Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 15 Kenny Lattimore and Deborah Cox
House of Blues Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 17 The Avett Brothers with Matt Butcher
House of Blues Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 19 Bob Weir & RatDog
St. Augustine Amphitheatre St. Augustine, FL
Jul 20 & 21 Rise Against with Rancid and Billy Talent
House of Blues Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 22 Reel Big Fish and The English Beat with TheSupervillains
The Ritz Ybor Tampa, FL
Jul 23 Rascal Flatts with Darius Rucker
Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena Jacksonville, FL
Jul 25 Rascal Flatts with Darius Rucker
Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
Jul 25 LFO with Rookie of the Year
House of Blues Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL
Jul 27 Gogol Bordello
The Ritz Ybor Tampa, FL
Jul 30 Maxwell
Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL
Jul 31 Craig Chaquico
House of Blues Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL

Grease is the word!

The one that you want is back! GREASE, Time Magazine's 2007 pick for #1 musical of the year, is rockin' across the country in this new production direct from Broadway. Take a trip to a simpler time of poodle skirts, drive-ins, and T-birds. "Bad-boy" Danny and "the girl next door" Sandy fall in love all over again to the tune of your favorite songs: "Summer Nights," "Greased Lightnin'" and "We Go Together" as well as additional songs from the hit movie: "Grease," "Hopelessly Devoted to You" and "You're the One That I Want." So throw your mittens around your kittens and Hand Jive the night away with the show that'll make you want to stand up and shout, "A-wop-bop-a-loo-bop-A-wop-bam-boom!" GREASE!

Grease is playing at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Theatre Aug 25 - 30. American Idol winner Taylor Hicks is Teen Angel!

Il Diva - June 09

Since coming together in 2004, four of the greatest voices in the world, David Miller, Carlos Marín, Urs Buhler & Sébastien Izambard have spearheaded an entire musical genre by bringing the sound of opera to the world of popular music. With over 22 million albums sold to date, Il Divo continue to confirm performances around the world as part of their massive touring plans for 2009 in support of their fifth album The Promise which is approaching PLATINUM status in the U.S.

The new show will be staged and choreographed by William Baker (Kylie, Jamiroquai) on a state of the art set, with a tour wardrobe designed by Giorgio Armani, featuring outfits from Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani and Armani Collezioni collections.

The show will feature repertoire from their five albums and several new songs, with Il Divo on stage the entire evening.

Steeleye Span - Rent Party 09

Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Walter Becker and Donald Fagen have announced that STEELY DAN will bring their 2009 U.S. Tour to Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre in Orlando on June 15, 2009. Steely Dan are giving their fans an incredible opportunity to hear the band delve deep into their classic catalogue of music, offering their signature collection of selected hits and fan-requested favorites from throughout their three-decade-plus discography.

The Orlando Fringe Festival

The Fringe is an eclectic, edgy and untraditional 12-day-festival founded on the concept of offering accessible theatre, music, dance, art and madness to all types and ages where 100 percent of the box office ticket sales go directly back to the artists.

The original Fringe was produced in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1947, and is now a huge International Festival. The Orlando Fringe has been entertaining audiences since 1992. Drawing visitors from around the globe, the Orlando International Fringe Festival is the longest running U.S. Fringe festival, taking place at Loch Haven Park May 14 – 25, 2009 with performances by more than 75 artistic groups.

Though there's an overall edgy vibe, the festival also has a surprisingly family friendly atmosphere. Kids Fringe, a special weekends only mini-festival created just for the little ones, and select kid-friendly shows ensure that no one is left out of this inspired fun.

Check out the complete schedule. Event tickets range from free to $10 with prices set by each of the artists. In addition to specific performance tickets, a $6 festival button is required for admission to the festival. All of the proceeds from the festival are returned to the participating artists. Advance tickets are on sale online or can be purchased on-site during the event.

For a complete schedule, ticket pricing and directions, go to orlandofringe.org.

Pooh's Playhouse slideshow

FORTHCOMING CONCERTS - FL FEB - AUG 2009

Senses Fail with Haste the Day, Hollywood Undead and Brokencyde
Saturday, Feb 28
Jannus Landing
St. Petersburg, FL

Less Than Jake with The Expendables
Tuesday, Mar 10
Jannus Landing
St Petersburg, FL


New Kids on the Block with Jabbawockeez
Friday, Mar 13
Amway Arena
Orlando, FL

Willie Nelson
Thursday, Mar 19
Marina Civic Center
Panama City, FL

Chicago
Thursday, Apr 2
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Clearwater, FL

Hall & Oates
Friday, Apr 10
St. Augustine Amphitheatre
St. Augustine, FL

Ratatat
Friday, Apr 10
The Ritz Ybor
Tampa, FL

Disturbed with Killswitch Engage and Five..
Saturday, Apr 11
Amway Arena
Orlando, FL

New Found Glory with Shai Hulud
Saturday, Apr 11
Jannus Landing
St. Petersburg, FL

Hall & Oates
Tuesday, Apr 14
Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall
Ft Myers, FL

Joe Cocker
Friday, Apr 17
St. Augustine Amphitheatre
St. Augustine, FL

Fleetwood Mac
Monday, Apr 20
Amway Arena
Orlando, FL

Nickelback with Seether and Saving Abel
Wednesday, Apr 22
Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Jacksonville, FL

Joe Cocker
Wednesday, Apr 22
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Clearwater, FL

Fleetwood Mac
Wednesday, Apr 22
St. Pete Times Forum
Tampa, FL

Joe Cocker
Thursday, Apr 23
Saenger Theatre
Pensacola, FL

James Taylor
Monday Apr 27
Ruth Eckard Hall
Clearwater, FL
Tuesday Apr 28
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
Fort Meyers, FL
Friday, May 1
St. Augustine Amphitheatre
St. Augustine, FL

Coldplay with Elbow and Kitty Daisy & Lewis
Sunday, Aug 9
Ford Amphitheatre
Tampa FL

ESTA IS REPLACING I-94W IMMIGRATION FORMS FOR VISA WAIVER

Most British holidaymakers can travel to the US under the visa-waiver scheme. Since January 12, those wishing to do so have been required to complete an online application known as ESTA – the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation.

ESTA is replacing the I-94W immigration forms issued on the plane.
While the technology is being sorted out, however, you may have to duplicate the information supplied online on the old green forms.

You have no option but to apply for ESTA online.

You are advised to supply details at least three days before travel, but last-minute applications are possible.

ESTA registration is free – be wary of commercial websites that charge to make the application.

The biographical and travel details required for ESTA are the same as on the I-94W form. You don’t have to give the precise address of where you are staying to complete the application, although an immigration officer may well ask for it when you arrive.

The ESTA permit covers travel to the US for two years. It’s not mandatory to update travel information on subsequent visits, but doing so might spare you trouble at immigration.
Despite evident duplication, you still need to provide airlines with separate “Advance Passenger Information”.Applications on https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.

http://www.visitusa.org.uk/visitors/us_visa_and_entry_requirements.aspx gives useful information as well.

The Games Room @ Pooh's Playhouse

We recently upgraded the Games Room and added a brand new pool table.

Of course there is still the air-hockey, foosball and electronic darts, giving a great place to entertain the youngsters!

We also leave 2½ sets of golf clubs out for your use, so no need to pay the additional charges at a golf course if you are not able to bring your clubs along.

Velvet Sessions - Orlando

Nelson is appearing on February 25 at the Velvet Lounge & Lobby Bard at the Hard Rock Hotel Orlando.

6.30 - 8.30 - Free speciality drinks, finger food & fratenizing
8.30pm onwards - Cash bar and live music

Disney Military Discount 2009

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Celebrates U.S. Military
With Free, Multi-day Admission to Theme Parks in 2009

As Disney Parks ask “What Will You Celebrate?” and invite guests to turn their personal milestones into magical family vacations in 2009, America’s service members will have one more reason to celebrate: Free admission.

Beginning January 4, 2009 to December 23, 2009, Disney announces, “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” which offers active U.S. military personnel and activated members of the National Guard or Reserves complimentary, multi-day admission to Disney’s U.S. theme parks.

Each active member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary five-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” ticket during the offer period, valid for admission into the four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, two Disney water parks, DisneyQuest interactive theme park and more. During the offer period, active military personnel also may make a one-time purchase of a five-day Magic Your Way base ticket for $99, plus tax, for up to five family members (including spouse) or friends. (The five-day ticket for family and friends can also be upgraded to include the “Water Parks and More” option and “Park Hopping” for $25 more each.)

Other Offer Details:

• “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” tickets for Disneyland® Resort can be obtained only through military base ticket offices. "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" paid tickets for Walt Disney World® can be obtained at participating military base ticket offices, Shades of Green Resort at Walt Disney World® Resort, or at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows (tickets purchased at Main Entrance are taxable). Complimentary tickets are only available at Main Entrance theme park ticket windows.
• Active military personnel (or, if they are not present, their spouses) must present proper military identification.
• To purchase the tickets for family members or friends, the service member must show the complimentary ticket issued to them.
• Activated members of the National Guard or Reserves (or if they are not present, their spouses) will need to show proper military identification plus active orders valid between January 1, 2009-December 23, 2009.
• Tickets for family members or friends may be purchased only by the active service member or spouse, not both. No more than one ticket may be purchased for any family member or friend (up to 5 people maximum).
• Last day of use on “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” theme park tickets at Disneyland® Resort is Jun. 27, 2009. Last day of use on “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” theme park tickets at Walt Disney World® Resort is Dec. 23, 2009.
• A valid ID may be required for admission.
• This offer may not be combined with any other offer.

For information on “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” at the Walt Disney World® Resort, please visit http://www.disneyworld.com/military.

Buy your tickets from your local base: http://www.disneymilitarysales.com/list.html

Bask in the sunshine and watch the dragonflies and butterflies flit from flower to flower.

Mardi Gras @ Universal Orlando

Live concerts at Universal Orlando

Feb 7 KC & The Sunshine Band
Feb 14 Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons
Feb 15 Village People
Feb 21 Ne-Yo
Feb 28 Pat Benatar
Mar 7 Bare Naked Ladies
Mar 14 Montgomery Gentry
Mar 21 Collective Soul
Mar 27 Boys Like Girls
Mar 28 Kelly Clarkson
Apr 4 M C Hammer
Apr 11 Trace Adkins
Apr 18 Nelly

The Jersey Boys - May 6 - 24 2009

Jersey Boys at Bob Carr Performing Arts Center, Orlando, May 6 - 24 2009

“TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!” raves the New York Post for JERSEY BOYS, the 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi.

This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30!

JERSEY BOYS, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album, features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” “IT WILL RUN FOR CENTURIES!” proclaims Time Magazine. The JERSEY BOYS creative team comprises two-time Tony Award®-winning director Des McAnuff, book writers Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, composer Bob Gaudio, lyricist Bob Crewe and choreography by Sergio Trujillo.

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BOK TOWER 80TH ANNIVERSARY - FREE ADMISSION JAN 31 2009

January 31 only. 8AM to 6 PM

Free admission will be offered at our 80th anniversary on January 31. “Sharing the Gift” will be the theme of the celebration from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free cake and juice will be served, a Japanese drum band will perform and there will be tree plantings, greenhouse tours, historical exhibits and more.

One of the Gardens’ most popular special events, “Crossing the Moat,” will give visitors a rare opportunity to walk across the moat that surrounds the Singing Tower for a closer look at the Great Brass Door. Designed by renowned master metal worker Samuel Yellin, the Tower’s imposing door weighs approximately 1,100 pounds, is 4” thick, 5’ wide by 10’ tall and features 30 brass panels depicting the Biblical story of creation.

In addition to carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m., special dignitaries will speak on world peace in a ceremony that begins at 11 a.m. “Gardens’ founder Edward Bok fought to bring an end to world wars by donating $100,000 when he created the American Peace Prize in 1923,” explains David Price, president of Bok Tower Gardens. “We’re honored to have members of the Bok family including former Harvard president Derek Bok and his wife Dr. Sissela Bok as honored guests along with many other dignitaries.

80^th Anniversary Celebration Schedule of Events

9 – 10:30 a.m. Crossing the Moat
10:30 a.m. Japanese Drummers
11 a.m. - noon Commemorative Ceremony
Noon – 1 p.m. Crossing the Moat
Noon – 2 p.m. Meet the Artists: Jamey Christoph & Duane Hull
1 – 5 p.m. Greenhouse & Horticulture Complex tours
1 p.m. Carillon Concert
1:30-3p.m. Crossing the Moat
2 p.m. Tree plantings
2:30 p.m. Meet the Artist: Jamie Kirkell’s “Art of Silk Painting”
3 p.m. Carillon Concert
3:30-5 p.m. Crossing the Moat

Dedicated on February 1, 1929, the National Historic Landmark is open every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Visitor Center, Blue Palmetto Café and Tower & Garden Gift Shop will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

House of Blues - Feb 14 2009

Big Head Todd & The Monters in concert at the Orlando House of Blues at Downtown Disney on Feb 14 2009.