Experience Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend this January!

As we gear up for the end of 2016, Best of Orlando is looking to what lies ahead in the New Year. While there are many exciting things coming to Orlando theme parks this summer, you don’t have to wait until then to experience some fun. New festivals, Harry Potter events, music series and LEGO fun are keeping guests well-entertained this January. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening next month:

Walt Disney World  

Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – What better way to kick off your New Year than with a run? The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend will help you start off on the right foot, literally. It all starts on January 5 with the runDisney Kids Races, Dopey Challenge and Walt Disney World 5K. Then on January 6, get set to run the Walt Disney World 10K. The Goofy’s Race and Half Challenge starts on January 7 and the weekend ends with the Walt Disney World Marathon on January 8.  

Epcot International Festival of the Arts – Epcot is adding a brand new festival to their lineup this January. Combining visual, culinary and performing arts from around the world, the Walt Disney World festival will run for six weekends and include historical artists Mary Blair and Herb Ryman, current Disney artists Joe Kaminsky and Costa Alavezos, Broadway talent, and new Food Studios.  

Harry Potter Celebration takes over Universal Orlando this January. 

Universal Orlando
 

Harry Potter Celebration – From January 27-January 29, Universal Orlando will host the fourth annual A Celebration of Harry Potter.  The unforgettable event is the only official event where guests can celebrate their love for all things Harry Potter and discover more about the Wizarding World. See your favorite characters from the films, enjoy an interactive Q&A session, walk through interactive displays, and much more.   

Busch Gardens Tampa  

Real Music Series – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is kicking off the New Year with their annual Real Music Series January 9 – March 4. The parks longest running concert series includes hits from the 1950’s to today with such artists as Shirley Alston Reeves, The Diamonds, The Platters, Fernando Vareia, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter None, Lee Greenwood and many more.  

SeaWorld Orlando  

Praise Wave Concert Series – SeaWorld Orlando is welcoming back Praise Wave this January. Beginning January 14 through January 28, the Orlando theme park is celebrating Christian fellowship with uplifting concerts from such artists as TobyMac, Francesca Battistelli and Skillet. Concerts will take place at the Nautilus Theater.   

LEGOLAND Florida  

LEGO NINJAGO World - On January 12, 2017, kids are invited to a new magical martial arts world at LEGOLAND Florida. LEGO NINJAGO will offer several hands-on, outdoor activities, allowing kids to sharpen their ninja skills. There is also the LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, a giant LEGO build experience called Zane’s Temple build, outdoor rock climbing wall and more.   

Have a Happy New Year and we hope to see you at one of Orlando’s many theme parks in 2017!

Orlando, FL – 12/29/16

By: Jena Pugh