March 24, 2024

Festival and Event Highlights for Orlando Theme Parks 2024

Orlando theme parks are gearing up for an unforgettable year in 2024, promising a blend of nostalgia and innovation you won't want to miss. From Walt Disney World's introduction of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, which builds upon Princess Tiana's journey, to the complete reimagination of the Test Track attraction at EPCOT inspired by the original World of Motion, the magic is getting bigger. Universal Studios Florida is set to enchant visitors with a new DreamWorks Land featuring beloved characters from Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda, and Gabby's Dollhouse, underscoring Orlando's status as a hub of unforgettable adventures.

Dive deeper into the unique festivals and events these parks offer. SeaWorld Orlando is stepping into the thrilling game by constructing Penguin Trek, an indoor-outdoor roller coaster, while Aquatica introduces Tassie's Underwater Twist. LEGOLAND Florida and SeaWorld's Aquatica are close behind, with the former getting a new neighbor in the form of SeaLife Florida Aquarium and the latter launching a new exhilarating waterslide. This article is your go-to guide for all the festival and event highlights across Orlando theme parks in 2024, making planning your visit to these magical places easier.

Seasonal Festivals and Events

One of the most popular seasonal events is Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. This family-friendly event transforms the park into a spooky wonderland with special parades, fireworks, and even trick-or-treating. Kids and adults alike can dress up in their favorite costumes and enjoy a night filled with fun and frights.

Another must-see event is Universal Orlando Resort's Halloween Horror Nights. This annual event occurs at Universal Studios and is not for the faint. With terrifying haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows, it is the ultimate Halloween experience for thrill-seekers. The attention to detail and immersive storytelling make this event truly unforgettable.

Each theme park goes out during the holiday season with festive decorations and magical experiences. Walt Disney World's Epcot hosts the International Festival of the Holidays, where guests can explore holiday traditions worldwide and sample delicious seasonal treats. Universal Orlando Resort presents the Grinchmas celebration at Islands of Adventure, featuring live shows, character meet-and-greets, and a chance to meet the Grinch himself.

Image ©NBCUniversal

Walt Disney World's Not-to-Miss Events

At Walt Disney World, the year 2024 is set to dazzle visitors with an array of not-to-miss events, each bringing its unique magic to the forefront. Here's what you can look forward to:

EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival (February 28 - May 27)

  • Discover brilliant gardens and fresh flavors, with over 60 new items from nearly 20 Outdoor Kitchens.
  • Enjoy the Garden Rocks Concert Series, featuring live bands performing daily at the American Gardens.
  • Participate in interactive seasonal scavenger hunts like Spike's Pollination Exploration and the Egg-stravaganza Hunt around the World Showcase.
  • Marvel at the new Groot topiary, among other beautiful topiaries and gardens that enhance the festival's visual appeal.

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Presented by CORKCICLE (Dates To Be Announced)

  • This event is a paradise for foodies, with chefs from around the world showcasing a variety of cultures and cuisines.
  • The Eat to the Beat Concert Series promises live concerts at America Gardens Theatre showcasing local acts and well-known bands.

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth (Dates To Be Announced)

  • Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season from around the globe.
  • The Candlelight Processional, a Disney Parks tradition with celebrity narrators retelling the Christmas story, is a highlight not to be missed.
  • Holiday storytellers and musical groups bring seasonal traditions and lore to life around World Showcase, offering an immersive holiday experience.

These festivals and events at Walt Disney World in 2024 promise to deliver unforgettable experiences filled with joy, culture, and the magic Disney is known for.

Image ©Disney

Universal Orlando Resort's Exciting Lineup

Dive into the heart of excitement with Universal Orlando Resort's 2024 event lineup, promising various festivities catering to every taste and age group. Here's a sneak peek into what awaits:

  • Mardi Gras (February 3 to April 7, 2024): Experience the vibrant Mardi Gras celebration, inclusive with your theme park ticket. This festival brings together the international flavors of Carnaval, featuring live concerts on select nights by artists like DJ Khaled and Luis Fonsi, ensuring a blend of culture and music.

  • Seasonal Celebrations: From the patriotic Fourth of July festivities to the spine-chilling Halloween Horror Nights spanning September 1 to October 31, and wrapping up the year with the magical Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Grinchmas, Universal Orlando Resort offers a year-round calendar of events to make every visit unforgettable.

Each event is crafted to offer unique experiences, ensuring that your visit to Universal Orlando Resort is filled with memorable moments.

Image ©NBCUniversal

SeaWorld Orlando's Aquatic Adventures

Dive into the aquatic adventures at SeaWorld Orlando, where the park is set to commemorate its 60th anniversary with a splash from March 21 – December 31, 2024. The celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience with live entertainment, commemorative décor, and more, ensuring your visit is packed with excitement and memorable moments.

Festive Celebrations & Cultural Events:

  • Seven Seas Food Festival (February 2 - May 19, 2024): Embark on a culinary journey with exciting flavors, local craft beers, and live performances. For authentic cultural experiences, don't miss the St. Patrick's Day Celebration (Mar. 14 - 17) and Cinco de Mayo festivities (Apr. 25 - 28 & May 2 - 5).
  • Guy Harvey Weekend (May 17-18, 2024): Meet the renowned conservationist for autographs and photo opportunities.
  • Viva La Música (Weekends in June 2024): Experience the vibrant Latin culture with festive music and family-friendly activities.
  • Bands, Brew & BBQ (July 6 - August 25, 2024): Savor mouth-watering BBQ and refreshing brews, and enjoy live concerts on weekends.

SeaWorld Orlando keeps up as the year progresses, offering events catering to every family member. From the spine-chilling Howl-O-Scream (September 6 - November 2) to the family-friendly Halloween Spooktacular (August 31 - November 3), and wrapping up with the Christmas Celebration (November 8 - January 2, 2025), there's something for everyone. Each event is designed to create lasting memories, making SeaWorld Orlando a must-visit destination in 2024.

Image ©United Parks & Resorts

LEGOLAND Florida Resort's Family Fun

At LEGOLAND Florida Resort, the adventure never stops, especially with the lineup planned for 2024 that promises fun for the entire family. Here's what's on the horizon:

New Attractions & Experiences:

  • LEGO Ferrari Build and Race (Spring 2024): Gear up for an automotive adventure featuring a life-sized LEGO Ferrari, interactive play zones, and three extreme tracks for testing your custom-built race cars.
  • SEA LIFE Florida Resort (Fall 2024): Dive into an underwater world with a diverse range of marine life and captivating exhibits, offering an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.

Seasonal Festivities:

  • Holidays at LEGOLAND (Nov-Dec 2024): Celebrate the festive season with unique activities like sending letters to LEGO Santa at the Holiday Village Postal Service, rocking around the giant LEGO tree, taking 'elfies' with holiday LEGO Characters, and enjoying the kid-friendly New Year celebration with LEGO bricks fireworks over Lake Eloise.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is more than just a theme park; it's a destination where families can create lasting memories. With its combination of thrilling rides, seasonal events, and immersive experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're racing a LEGO Ferrari or exploring the ocean's wonders at SEA LIFE, the adventure awaits at LEGOLAND Florida Resort in 2024.

Image ©Merlin Entertainments

FAQs

What new attractions and events are scheduled for Orlando theme parks in 2024?

In 2024, Orlando theme parks are set to introduce several new attractions, including:

  • Universal Orlando Resort will open DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida this Summer.
  • Magic Kingdom Park will opening Tiana's Bayou Adventure
  • EPCOT will unveil CommuniCore Hall, CommuniCore Plaza, and the Mickey & Friends meet and greet at EPCOT, which will be opening on June 10th 2024.
  • Plus much more!

What will Universal Orlando add to its theme park in 2024?

Universal Orlando is set to open a new themed land inspired by DreamWorks Animation in the summer of 2024. This area will replace the former Woody Woodpecker's KidZone and offer a variety of interactive and family-friendly experiences.

For a complete experience, how many days should you plan to spend at Orlando's theme parks?

It is recommended that you allocate at least six full days to fully enjoy Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. Planning a six-day trip allows one full day at each of the four Disney Parks and two full days to explore Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks.

Conclusion

Orlando's theme parks in 2024 promise an exceptional array of festivals and attractions, each uniquely tailored to offer guests an unforgettable experience. Whether it's the nostalgic charm of Walt Disney World's attractions, the innovative excitement at Universal Studios, the aquatic thrills of SeaWorld, or the family joy at LEGOLAND, each park is set to create lasting memories for visitors. With a lineup that includes the introduction of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, the reimagining of EPCOT's Test Track, and the 60th-anniversary celebration at SeaWorld, Orlando solidifies its position as a leading destination for themed entertainment and cultural festivities. For Disney-styled resorts and proximity to theme parks, browse the beautiful vacation rental properties at Windsor Hills Resorts.

As we anticipate the coming year, the promise of innovation, celebration, and discovery at Orlando's theme parks highlights the enduring allure of these destinations and their ability to evolve and captivate visitors' imaginations worldwide.

Image ©Disney

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