October is a month of transformation in Orlando, where the spirit of Halloween mingles with the excitement of new ventures. From charming local festivals and enriching community events to the unveiling of innovative dining experiences, this month promises to captivate residents and visitors alike. Discover what’s new as we explore the vibrant updates shaping our city's unique character.
Benefit Concert Raises $100K for Holocaust Memorial Center
On September 14th, Opera Orlando, in collaboration with the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, and others, hosted the Florida premiere of Defiant Requiem: Verdi at Terezín at Steinmetz Hall. The concert raised $100,000 for the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida. The funds will support the Center’s mission of Holocaust education and remembrance. Opera Orlando recently presented a check to the Holocaust Center, expressing gratitude to its partners, sponsors, and attendees for their generous contributions toward such a meaningful cause.
Morimoto Asia Hosts “Taste of Japan” Highball Event at Disney Springs
This October, Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs will offer an exclusive culinary experience as part of the Beam Suntory Highball Week. The event takes place on October 10th, 2024, with tickets priced at $65, covering two Toki highballs and eight Izakaya-inspired bites. Guests can choose from yakitori skewers, pork belly, beef tongue, and more from the Yakiniku station, with sweet treats from the Kakigori shaved ice station. This intimate event features guest appearances from Beam Suntory representatives, and seating is available on the patio and in the Forbidden Lounge. Don't miss this night of bold flavors and unique cocktails.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando Unveils Festive Holiday Experiences
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is gearing up for a magical holiday season with festive activities for guests of all ages. The resort's stunning holiday decor includes a giant gingerbread house and a Christmas tree, setting the tone for seasonal fun. Highlights include the heated Explorer Island water park, "Epilogue" Speakeasy for adults, and a Retro Roller-Skating Rink. The resort also offers holiday-themed Kids For All Seasons activities, like gingerbread house decorating and Christmas movie screenings. Plus, guests can enjoy views of Walt Disney World fireworks from select rooms and dining venues.
Puerto Rican Sushi Fusion: Escobar Kitchen Expands to Downtown Orlando
After 20 years in hospitality, Lewis Escobar turned his passion for sushi and Puerto Rican cuisine into Escobar Kitchen. Starting from a six-table setup in his home during the pandemic, demand skyrocketed. Escobar moved to Bravo Markets in Lake Nona, where his sushi with a Puerto Rican twist gained popularity. Now, he's opening a second location Downtown, inside the Camden Thornton Park building at 420 E. Church Street. Set for a grand opening on September 6th, Escobar’s signature Escobar Roll, fusing yellow rice, churrasco, and plantains, is a must-try.
Pulse Museum Property to Be Sold by Orange County for $4.05M
Orange County will sell the 1.75-acre property at 438 W. Kaley Street, originally bought for the OnePulse Foundation's LGBTQ History Museum. Purchased for $3.5 million in 2019 using Tourist Development Tax funds, the museum plans collapsed when OnePulse dissolved in 2023. The county, unable to recover its grant, will sell the land for its appraised value of $4.05 million. The $6.5 million already spent on the land and museum design will be recouped in part, with the proceeds returned to the county's Tourist Development Tax fund.
The Glass Knife to Open Second Location on Park Avenue in Winter Park
The Glass Knife, a popular spot for breakfast, brunch, and desserts, is expanding with a second location in Winter Park. Set to open in late Spring 2025, the new café will be located at 212 N. Park Avenue, across from Central Park’s Main Stage. Known for its artisanal donuts, cakes, and savory dishes, the new Glass Knife will maintain its signature style while offering a cozy atmosphere for both locals and tourists. The announcement follows their growing popularity, making them a go-to destination for sweets and casual dining in Orlando.
Winter Park Introduces Fees for EV Charging Starting November 1st
Winter Park will begin charging for its electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on November 1st, following complaints about prolonged usage. EV drivers will now pay $1 per 20 minutes of connected time, with an additional $10 per hour after 3 hours. These changes aim to prevent extended charging sessions and better manage station use. The city, which has provided free charging since 2012, hopes the new policy will encourage EV users to charge responsibly. Winter Park currently has 11 stations, supporting the city’s push for greener transportation options.
Orlando International Airport Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Art and Music
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with an art exhibit and cultural celebrations. Over 20 artworks from Hispanic artists, representing countries like Peru and Venezuela, will be displayed at Gallery MCO through October. Additional events include live music performances by the Don Soledad Trio and Mariachi Oro Internacional, along with domino games for travelers. MCO will also highlight Hispanic employees through social media, sharing their stories. This celebration reinforces MCO's commitment to diversity in the Orlando community.
Kappy’s Subs to Reopen with New Lease: Community Support Sparks Revival
Kappy’s Subs in Maitland, an iconic sub shop operating since 1972, is set to reopen on September 23rd after securing a new lease. Initially facing closure due to Bolen Properties purchasing the property, the Milsom family clarified that they chose to leave by September 14th, rather than being asked to vacate. The outpouring of community support led to a successful renegotiation of their lease. Owner Adam Milsom thanked patrons for their support, enabling Kappy’s to continue its legacy.
KaleidoScope.360°: Free Outdoor Movie Series Lights Up Creative Village
A new monthly outdoor movie series, KaleidoScope.360°, will begin on October 2nd at Luminary Green in Creative Village, Downtown Orlando. The family-friendly event, produced by Global Peace 360° and supported by Orlando Health, features a screening of the classic film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Each event starts with a pre-show at 6:30PM, followed by the movie at 7PM. The series concludes with “Luminary Nights on the Green,” a synchronized light and animation show. KaleidoScope.360° is free and open to the public, promising a night of community fun and cinematic magic.
Punk and Art Collide: Pat Greene Reflects on Orlando Museum of Art Openings
Pat Greene, Bungalower Media's new Arts and Culture Correspondent, takes readers on a journey through two exhibitions at the Orlando Museum of Art: Torn Apart and PUSH. These exhibitions reflect punk rock's cultural impact between 1976-1986. Greene shares personal stories about his connection to this period, including friendships with notable figures like Chris Robb, an acclaimed local artist. Featuring works by Raymond Pettibon and nods to skateboarding culture, the exhibits highlight punk's lasting influence. Greene plans to attend the openings with Robb, his longtime friend and fellow artist, adding a personal touch to the exploration of rebellious art.
4Rivers Smokehouse to Open Sundays: Extended Hours Coming
For the first time in its history, 4Rivers Smokehouse will begin opening its Central Florida locations on Sundays, starting September 22nd. Known for its faith-based approach and commitment to giving employees Sundays off, the chain is shifting its policy without a publicly stated reason. New Sunday hours are from 11AM to 7PM, which started on September 27th, the popular barbecue joint will stay open until 9PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The SoDo location, however, will remain closed on Sundays, staying true to its tradition.
LGBTQ+ Space ‘Heatwave’ to Open in Parramore: Revitalizing the Former Stonewall Bar
Heatwave, a new LGBTQ+ space, is set to open in the Parramore District of Downtown Orlando, taking over the former Stonewall Bar location, which has been vacant since 2021. The new venue, co-owned by Kevin Varanai, Andrea Dunn, and Brandon Wood, promises to be a multi-functional space, including a tapas restaurant upstairs and a coffee lounge downstairs that transforms into a nighttime hotspot. Heatwave is scheduled to open before the end of 2024, adding a fresh chapter to the historic building and providing a welcoming space for Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community.
Orlando's Jackie Siegel Brews Up Ultra-Premium "Queen of Versailles Coffee"
Jackie Siegel, the Orlando-based entrepreneur and philanthropist, has launched Queen of Versailles Coffee, the first ultra-premium coffee brand in the U.S. Hand-picked from Guatemala’s volcanic Acatenango region, the coffee beans are cultivated and roasted to perfection, ensuring a luxurious, chemical-free product. Each limited reserve canister is numbered and designed to reflect Siegel's signature opulence. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Victoria’s Voice Foundation, furthering Siegel’s philanthropic mission.
Farm and Haus Shines in Orlando: A New Dawn for Florida's Cuisine
Farm and Haus, the beloved Winter Park restaurant founded by Brittany and Patrick Lyne, has officially closed its doors after 10 years. Starting as a modest dinner delivery service, the restaurant grew into a community favorite. The couple, citing personal and professional challenges, made the decision to focus on their family and future endeavors, leaving behind fond memories and gratitude for their patrons and staff.
Festival of Trees Returns to Orlando Museum of Art for the 2024 Holidays
The Festival of Trees is back at the Orlando Museum of Art from November 16th-24th, 2024, with the theme "Let the Joy of the Season Shine." This annual event, hosted by the Council of 101, features over 50 designer-inspired trees, wreaths, and holiday displays available for purchase. Special events like Breakfast with Santa, a Silent Disco, and Reindeer Romp promise holiday cheer for all ages, with proceeds supporting the museum’s educational programs.
At Last Jack - First Jack In The Box Restaurant to Open in Lake Nona
Jack in the Box is set to make its return to Florida after 30 years, with the first new Orlando location in Lake Nona. Scheduled to open at 10105 William Carey Drive, this 24-hour fast food restaurant will feature dine-in, drive-thru, and mobile ordering options. Orlando is poised to welcome over 20 new Jack in the Box locations as part of a significant expansion by franchise owners.
The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild Returns to Central Florida Zoo this November
The Central Florida Zoo’s Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild is returning for its fifth year from November 15th, 2024, to January 19th, 2025. This stunning event, presented by Publix, will feature larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns illuminated by thousands of LED lights. Attendees can stroll a 3/4-mile loop through the zoo while enjoying the visual spectacle, with the popular dragon lantern taking center stage to celebrate the Year of the Dragon.
Orlando to Open Upgraded Youth Services Center in Parramore This Month
Orlando’s newly renovated Downtown Recreation Center is set to open on September 30th, offering a range of services for youth aged 14-19 in Parramore. The drop-in center will provide mental health support, career guidance, tutoring, culinary classes, and more. The facility also features game rooms, a movie room, a computer lab, and upgraded amenities like new locker rooms and a refinished gym. Mayor Dyer and Commissioner Shan Rose celebrated the grand opening, emphasizing the city’s commitment to youth empowerment.