The latest Orlando happenings updated weekly using information provided by partners and destination press releases. Stay up-to-date on Orlando's most recent announcements and openings from accommodations and attractions to restaurants and more.
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes has earned the Forbes Trave Guide Five-Star Award – the first property in Central Florida to receive this distinguished honor.
ATTRACTIONS
ICON Park unveiled Art Way, a new mural-lined walkway featuring vibrant works by a lineup of local artists. Stretching more than 140 feet inside the entertainment destination, the installation showcases artistic interpretations inspired by Blue Man Group, Museum of Illusions Orlando, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Helena Modern Riviera and Visit Orlando. Art Way offers a colorful visual journey celebrating Orlando’s creativity, personality and artistic spirit
The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art will debut three new exhibits on March 3, highlighting paintings and jewelry from its collection. The exhibits include Beyond Glass: The Paintings of Louis Comfort Tiffany, SalonStyle Paintings and Handpicked: Jewelry from the Morse Family, showcasing distinctive works of art, expression and design.
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
AVA MediterrAegean announced it will transform into a late-night lounge every Thursday through Saturday after 10 p.m. The restaurant will feature a nightlife experience including curated DJs, exclusive bottle service and a lively party scene.
Zukku-San Sushi, an elevated sushi restaurant by Ferdian Jap and chef Gia Tran, will open at Pointe Orlando in the spring.
Vines by H, formerly Vines Grille & Wine Bar, will celebrate its grand opening Feb. 19. The newly reintroduced dining destination by The H Hospitality Group debuts as a modern, upscale steakhouse. The opening event will feature elevated bites, curated wines, cigars, craft cocktails and live music
Mission Resort + Club announced the opening of Conquistador Bar & Restaurant, a fully reimagined dining experience uniting the former La Margarita and El Conquistador restaurants into a single, cohesive space. The menu reflects the same sense of exploration found in the design, blending Spanish influences with Floridian ingredients and classic techniques, with a focus on small plates, seafood and boldly flavored entrées.
EVENTS & FESTIVALS
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnival will bring the spirit of New Orleans to Universal Orlando Resort Feb. 7 – April 4. This event features the Mardi Gras parade, featuring vibrant floats and street performers; an expansive menu of international dishes; a new meet-and-greet walkaround character, Prince Gator, inspired by the King Gator float; an all-new Mardi Gras Tribute Store; and live performances on select nights by top names in music like Kaskade, Zedd, Bebe Rexa and The All-American Rejects.
Orlando City Hall will feature a Black History Month Art Gallery Feb. 3 – March 31. The display will explore the stories, movements, impact and culture of Black Americans and feature original works by many Central Florida artists highlighting the contributions of Black trailblazers, scholars and everyday heroes.
The Strawberry Festival at Amber Brooke Farms returns for its 5th year on weekends Feb. 28 – March 15. The event will feature family-friendly activities, live entertainment, food vendors, farm fun and fresh strawberries.
Harbor House of Central Florida will host its 12th annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event on Feb. 12, inviting the community to walk down Orange Avenue to raise awareness of domestic violence and support critical survivor programs. Participants are encouraged to wear high heels as a show of solidarity with survivors.
Live! At the Pointe Orlando will host Mardi Gras Live!, a vibrant Mardi Gras celebration, on Feb 13. This New Orleans-inspired event will include a lively street parade where guests can catch beads, jazz musicians, dancers, masked performers, DJs, food and more.
The Orlando Science Center will host Spark STEM Fest, Feb. 14-16. The family-friendly event will include immersive hands-on exhibits and high energy live science shows.
Orlando Ballet will present Carmen, a bold production set to a driving score that delivers drama and desire in every movement. Performances will run through Feb. 15 at The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
The 6th annual Jane Austen Fest will be held at Donnelly Park in Mount Dora, Feb. 13-15. The event invites guests to step into the world of 18th century England with a weekend full of events, tea, lectures and workshops.
Orlando Science Center will host Science Night Live, an adults-only evening event, on Feb. 14, featuring science-themed activities, trivia, live entertainment and more.
The Mennello Museum of American Art will host its 11th annual Indie‑Folkfest, Feb. 14. The festival will celebrate music, art and community, featuring a lineup of local musicians, food, drinks and a variety of engaging activities for attendees of all ages.
The Promenade at Sunset Walk will host the 4th annual Fat Tuesday Street Party and Celebration. The Mardi Gras event, held Feb.17, will feature a night of nonstop live music; street performers; craft vendors; food and beverage specials; dockside dueling pianos; bead throwing and more.