Here is a look at what’s coming:

Easter Brunch at Driftlight Steakhouse

$60 per person

April 5 · 6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. · Driftlight Steakhouse

If Easter brunch is the main event in your family’s holiday, Driftlight delivers with an all-you-can-eat spread of gourmet selections designed to hit every preference at the table. Whether you’re loading a plate at the buffet for the third time or nursing a Bloody Mary over good conversation, you’ll find plenty of reasons to linger.

Easter Brunch Buffet at Riverwalk Terrace

$56 adult · $28 child

April 5 · 6:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. · Riverwalk Terrace · Tampa Marriott Water Street

The Riverwalk Terrace pulls out the stops for Easter with an enhanced buffet experience featuring a prime rib carving station and an expanded dessert selection that should not be underestimated. With family-friendly pricing and a setting that looks out over the river, it makes for an effortless holiday morning.

Spring Renewal Salt Glow at Spa by JW

$325 + 20 percent service charge

Mon – Thu, all of April

April 1 – 30 · Monday – Thursday · Tampa Marriott Water Street

Available throughout the month, this Elemis full-body salt and botanical exfoliation treatment is the spa’s effort to give everyone a restart. Treatment focuses on circulation, hydration, and restoration. Book Monday through Thursday for availability.

Yappy Hour

Every Monday

Mondays · Anchor and Brine

One of Tampa’s top riverwalk terraces is offering the perfect weekly experience with your canine friend. Anchor and Brine’s Yappy Hour brings chef-crafted bites and thoughtful touches.

May 2026

Spill the Tea — Mother’s Day Edition

May 9 · 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. · Beacon · JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

The tea experience gets its most elegant treatment of the season for Mother’s Day, with a live electric violinist elevating the ambiance overlooking Tampa Bay. Be sure to secure well before the weekend.

Mother’s Day Brunch at Driftlight Steakhouse

$60 per person

May 10 · 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. · Driftlight Steakhouse · JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

Driftlight’s Mother’s Day breakfast buffet is crafted with the occasion in mind with a wide spread of thoughtfully prepared dishes designed for a morning of celebration. It’s a natural choice if your Mother’s Day tradition includes good food, good company, and the option to return to the buffet as many times as you see fit.

Mother’s Day in Bloom

May 10 · JW Marriott Tampa Water Street Lobby

Stop by Flor + Palma in the JW lobby on Mother’s Day to design your own complimentary bouquet. Follow the hotel’s channels for updates and plan to pop in if you’re already at the property for brunch or tea.

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at Riverwalk Terrace

$56 adult · $28 child

May 10 · 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. · Riverwalk Terrace · Tampa Marriott Water Street

The Riverwalk Terrace rounds out the Mother’s Day options at Tampa Marriott with an enhanced buffet featuring carved meats and seasonally inspired pastries. An à la carte menu is available until 9 a.m. for early risers who prefer to order off the menu before the full buffet opens up.

Reservations for most events can be made directly with the restaurants or through the hotel. Given how quickly these occasions fill, booking ahead is the move.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

• Kaya Orlando is a Michelin-recognized, James Beard-nominated Filipino restaurant in Orlando’s Mills 50 neighborhood, helmed by Chef Lordfer Lalicon
• The menu reimagines classic Filipino dishes with modern technique — expect familiar flavors approached in unexpected ways
• Must-order food: the Kare-Kare Filipino Oxtail, a lighter reinterpretation of the traditional stew served with a self-mixed peanut sauce and garlic rice
• Must-order cocktail: the Otso Otso, a cachaça-based drink with pandan, coconut water, koshihikari rice milk and shio goji that showcases genuinely inventive bartending
• Reservations strongly recommended — the restaurant fills up fast and walk-in seating is limited
• One of Orlando’s most exciting dining experiences and a compelling case for Filipino cuisine’s place in fine dining

ORLANDO, FL – Kaya Orlando, the award-winning project in Orlando’s Mills 50 neighborhood, has familiar Filipino food dishes all with a twist driven from Chef Lordfer Lalicon, who has decades of restaurant experience and has all the right components for a successful gourmet Filipino restaurant.

I’ve been meaning to go since they opened, but was lured out recently when they featured an Australian wagyu special (which was subsequently and sadly sold out when I arrived). The restaurant is in a bungalow house that when packed feels like you are dining in someone’s home kitchen or pop-up. For this last-minute visit I snagged a seat at the bar after calling to see if there were any spots available.

I know how hard Filipino food can be to succeed in, covering a project years ago that failed in the space. The hard part with Filipino food is this conflict between purists who want traditional food and people who will let chefs innovate. The Philippines has thousands of islands and ways of cooking and there can be this dynamic where the chef is sharing a family recipe that is still foreign to others. Despite powerful voices like Anthony Bourdain proclaiming Filipino food the future, the road hasn’t been as clear for many chefs and restaurateur paving their way. Kaya’s menus shows a focus on the core cuisine, while giving space for growth. Kaya shows that when chefs are allowed to innovate they can truly create something special.

I was impressed with the flow at the bar. The bartender, Daniel, walked me through the innovative menu that feature a variety of classic and inventive cocktails as well a variety of wine and beer options. The Ube, That’s Good features ube-infused vodka, falernum, banana du brésil, angostura bitters. It’s unique and has a really strong ube flavor. It’s hard to capture Ube well and I think the cocktail does it well. It comes close to matching the pure root flavor versus the more taro-like powders you will find nearly everywhere today (heck ube is even at Starbucks).

My favorite drink was the Otso Otso featuring cachaça, rosé vermouth, pandan, coconut water, koshihikari rice milk, shio goji, poblano liqueur. It’s probably the first time in my life that I have enjoyed cachaça and the rice milk and shio goji really made it shine as well as the pandan. These flavors don’t often interact with each other on a menu, but it works. Cachaça has this really grassy flavor and the other ingredients soften it and make it palatable. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a unique flavor that showcases exemplary mixology.

Back to the food, I had to make another choice with the wagyu sold out and I eventually settled on an order of lumpia and Kaya’s version of Kare-Kare Filipino Oxtail. The lumpia pieces were big and full of flavor and filling.You only receive three but it is quite enough.

The Kare-Kare was not what I expected at all with the oxtail cooked more like a smoked brisket and a sweet potato puree with a side of garlic rice. It was delicious and surprisingly filling despite being a smaller plate of food. I was impressed with the overall sauce and meat mixture of peanut sauce and shrimp that you mix yourself at the table that has a nutty texture without being too thick. I would recommend it. It’s clear the chef spent time thinking about how to capture the essence of Kare-Kare in a different way. Kare-Kare is normally this really thick sauce and stew, this one is lighter while still diving deep into the flavor of the meat.

This level of intentionality and focus from the chef to the bar to management makes it easy to say how Kaya caught the eye of Michelin and the James Beard Foundation. Kaya sources approximately 90 percent of its produce from Central Florida farms, serving a hyper-seasonal menu based on farm availability.

The atmosphere at the restaurant has a jovial environment with friendly staff and customers who seem to be enjoying themselves. Service was quick for both food and cocktails and the restaurant has a good flow to it overall despite being busy the entire evening. It’s nice to see everyone in their natural elements. Everyone at Kaya seems to be genuinely happy to be there. Service is automatically included, but that doesn’t stop staff from being top-notch.

I highly recommend Kaya.

Kaya Orlando 618 N. Thornton Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 Mills 50 District (407) 627-9117 kayaorlando.com

Hours Tuesday–Thursday: 5:30–9:30 PM Friday: 5:00–10:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM–12:00 PM (brunch) | 5:00–10:00 PM (dinner) Sunday: 5:00–8:45 PM

Reservations Recommended, especially on weekends. Book via Resy at kayaorlando.com or walk in for à la carte seating at the bar.

Follow Instagram: @kayaorlando

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

• Savor Sarasota 2026 runs June 1–14, offering prix-fixe menus at restaurants across Sarasota County, including Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch.
• Diners can enjoy two-course lunches for $25 and three-course dinners for $45 at participating restaurants during the 21st annual culinary promotion hosted by Visit Sarasota County.
• Restaurant registration is open now, with an early deadline of April 1 for additional marketing opportunities and a final deadline of May 20.

SARASOTA, FL –  The 21st Annual Savor Sarasota returns June 1 through June 14, 2026. Registration is open now for the prix-fixe dining promotion.

Participating partner restaurants will offer exclusive chef-curated prix-fixe menus featuring a two-course lunch for $25 and a three-course dinner for $45 per person. There will be optional enhancements such as wine pairings, curated flights, and upgraded dishes.

Locations covered will include the barrier islands of Longboat, Lido, and Siesta Keys to the downtown corridors of Sarasota, Venice, and Englewood, as well as inland communities, such as Lakewood Ranch, Osprey, Nokomis, and North Port.

Photo credit: Rod Millington

“I have watched Savor Sarasota grow from an idea into one of the most robust culinary celebrations that happens annually, and it never gets old,” said Erin Duggan, President and CEO of Visit Sarasota County.

Duggan continued, “Twenty-one years in, the energy around this promotion is as strong as ever; last year alone, the campaign generated 1 billion media impressions and an impressive $1.2 million in revenue for participating restaurants. Our restaurants always step up and make Savor Sarasota their own, and I cannot wait to see what they bring to the table this June.”

Early registration is strongly encouraged for restaurateurs. Restaurants that sign up by April 1 will be considered for additional marketing and PR opportunities, such as media outreach and promotional features throughout the campaign. Menus and registration must be submitted by April 24 for inclusion when the official Savor Sarasota website launches on May 1. The final registration deadline is May 20.

Savor Sarasota is open exclusively to Visit Sarasota partners. Restaurants can register before their menus are finalized, but a completed registration, finalized menus, and photos are all required to be listed as a participating partner restaurant.

For more information and to register, visit visitsarasota.com/savor-sarasota.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Tickets are $59.92 + taxes and fees and are available online. The all-you-can-eat market is sure to fill empty stomachs. The first-tier at 6 p.m. has already sold out, leaving the 8 p.m. entry available. Some of the food that will be served includes Hainan Chicken & Ginger Rice, Coconut Pandan Cookies, Black Sesame Cream Puffs, Japanese A5 Wagyu Katsu Sando bites, Black Sesame Croffles, and more.

Participating vendors include Bento, Palm Beach Meats, Light On The Sugar, Zaru, Kawaii Crochet Shop, Mr. Takoyaki, Sampaguita Ice Cream, Okonomi, Baddie Bird, Kai Kai, Banh Mi Boy, Cowboy Curry and more.

Guests can enjoy unlimited Asian street food and drinks, a live DJ bringing fast and festive energy, guest chefs and vendors from Orlando and beyond, Lunar New Year–themed merch, prizes & red-envelopes, and sake cocktails available for purchase.

Free parking is available in the rear surface lot and along Thornton Ave.

Purchase tickets online: http://www.eventeny.com/events/lucky-lunar-night-market-27413/

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About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

The play takes place nineteen years after the end of the original book series. Harry is a husband, a father, and an employee at the Ministry of Magic. As his son Albus heads to Hogwarts for the first time, Albus struggles to make a path for himself under his father’s legacy. When he is sorted into a different Hogwarts house than Harry once was, the distance between them deepens and sets off a chain reaction of choices that lead Albus to alter the past and reshape the future, with unintended consequences.

Hailed by Forbes as “one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade,” the play is based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and director John Tiffany. The best-selling novels have grown into a global phenomenon, including eight Harry Potter films, three Fantastic Beasts films, the award-winning stage production HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD and immersive games from Portkey Games.

Fans can engage the series through innovative consumer products, five Universal Studios theme park lands and exclusive retail experiences, such as Harry Potter New York. Warner Bros. Discovery continues to expand the universe with global touring events and behind-the-scenes magic at Warner Bros with studio tours in London and Tokyo. A new HBO Original series based on the books is in development.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit drphillipscenter.org.

Subscribe to Carlos Eats on Substack.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Islands of Adventure Rides Ranked by Land

Marvel Super Hero Island

Long before Marvel was making billions at the box office and comic books were the main bread and butter for the business, Marvel Super Hero Island was one of the first places where fans could visualize their heroes come alive. Characters such as the X-Men, Captain America, and Wolverine walk around the park and there are plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a great place to find a gift for the comic book nerd in your life and although the land is beginning to show its age, the rides are still charming.

• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: Despite the age of this ride, it seems its popularity keeps rising more and more. It’s a reliable way to escape the rain or heat and the ride is entertaining, even if it feels dated. I don’t get sick of riding it, but I’ll wait for the lines to shorten before going on. Score: 8/10
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster: This was my favorite ride at Universal IOA for a long time and when they reworked the ride I noticed it is much bumpier and uncomfortable than it was in years prior. That being said the line to ride is shorter than it was a long time ago and the ride is still worth a ride every once in awhile. Score: 4/10
• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall: This ride brings back memories and is one of the older rides in the theme park at Islands of Adventure. The views are not always the best depending on if you are facing the theme park or are facing the other way and the ride is quite short. The ride is showing its age. Score: 6/10
• Storm Force Accelatron: This is a fun ride for those with younger kids or high school/college age kids. Personally as an adult, I cannot handle the spinning anymore so I avoid it now, but definitely still recommend to those with younger kids. Score: 6/10

Toon Lagoon

This land was built when cartoons were still in their prime and long before a focus on live actions began to take the world by storm. The focus on comic strips and classic cartoons is still fun to see and the water rides here are the big draw, especially on a hot summer day in Florida. These water rides remain my favorites.

• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls: One of my favorite rides at IOA going back to my middle school days. The line to Dudley Do-Right can get quite long, but the ride is an adventure and there is nothing like seeing Hogwarts from this high in the sky. You will get very wet so be sure to have some flip flops handy and perhaps pay for a locker. The drop at the bottom is a rush as well. Score: 10/10
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges: Such a fun ride (just look up some videos on people getting soaked). The interaction with bystanders is always fun and just the general screams as people get wet. The ride is not too short and not too long and certainly better than competitor versions of a river rapid ride. Make sure to bring a change of clothes. Score: 10/10

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade

When this land first opened, it was an iconic unveiling. Fans came from around the world to see Harry Potter come to life and to drink a butter beer (or two…or three). This land was one of the main reasons I owned a theme park pass in college. Much effort has been done since the original opening to maintain the park and keep up with the times as the world has evolved. Now with Harry Potter attractions around the world, it might not be as exclusive as it once was, but its still pretty cool.

• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure: The best ride at Islands of Adventure but be prepared to wait for hours. The line can be unbearable and clear over two hours or more if you do not have an express pass. The ride itself is a rush and I highly recommend doing the ride early and also at night for a completely different experience. The speeds the ride hits are very enjoyable. Score: 10/10
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: When this ride first opened it was one of my favorites and I still have a nostalgic love for it, but the ride is showing its age and needs to be updated. The lines tend to be shorter nowadays, which makes it still worth the wait. Everyone should experience it at least once and more if you love Harry Potter. Score: 7.5/10
• Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station: The best way to travel between Universal Studios and Islands Of Adventure. The line can get pretty long at times, but when its short, its such a fun way to get to another part of the theme park. You’ll feel like you’re inside the Harry Potter film or book. It’s also a good way to cool off when its hot outside. Score: 10/10

Jurassic Park

In many ways, Jurassic Park often feels like it belongs more in Universal Studios than at Islands of Adventure, but the thrilling rides are certainly not in sync with that park. You’ll get a nice slice into the iconic film series here. My only wish is that they expanded this land even more. It always feels like it ends too soon.

• Jurassic Park River Adventure(currently closed for renovations through November 2026): A classic adventure into Jurassic Park on the water. The ride has a big drop at the end that really makes it quite the journey and is it possible to get wet on the ride, though how wet really varies. The ride is currently being worked on. Score: 9/10
• Jurassic World VelociCoaster: One of the newest roller coasters at Islands of Adventure goes incredibly fast and zips you over the water and loops at high speed. Personally, its not my favorite ride and I feel the force does not provide a comfortable experience. It shakes quite a bit as well. This one can also get really long lines so take advantage when it slows down. Score: 6/10

Skull Island: Reign of Kong

This land doesn’t even feel like it should be recognized as one. The ride is disappointing, especially when you compare it to the iconic King Kong ride that was once at Universal Studios. You can walk right pass this ride and never even know you were in Skull Island. There is hardly any indication you are there.

• Skull Island: Reign of Kong: Maybe one of the worst rides at Islands of Adventure. The issue with this ride is that the show itself is not particularly entertaining and the ride is very short as well. I will hardly wait to ride and when I decide to it always feels like a waste of time. Score: 3/10

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Tickets are available to Islands of Adventure at UniversalOrlando.com.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Music acts will be paired with special food offerings and are included with park admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Single-day tickets start at $99.99. Guests can also purchased the Food, Wine & Garden Festival Vacation Package, which includes admission, one 15-item sampling lanyard, accomodations at a hotel partner, and free parking.

Here is the list of who is performing:

Food, Wine & Garden Festival concert line-up list

• Mar. 7 | Walker Hayes
• Mar. 8 | Puddle of Mudd
• Mar. 14 | P.O.D.
• Mar. 15 | Grupo Mania
• Mar. 21 | Skillet
• Mar. 22 | Robin Thicke
• Mar. 27 | Warren G
• Mar. 28 | Dylan Scott
• Mar. 29 | Kansas
• Apr. 4 | Nick Carter
• Apr. 10 | The Band Perry
• Apr. 11 | El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico
• Apr. 12 | Smash Mouth
• Apr. 18 | Flo Rida
• Apr. 19 | Air Supply
• Apr. 24 | Bowling For Soup
• Apr. 25 | Surprise Artist To Be Announced Soon
• May. 2 | Bow Wow & Ying Yang Twins
• May 3 | Taking Back Sunday
• May 9 | Pop 2000 featuring Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, and O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, and LFO

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers guests 300 acres of attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens offers thrilling rides, an AZA accredited zoo with over 16,000 animals representing more than 200 species, and seasonal events throughout the year.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

A star-studded line-up at MEGACON Orlando 2026 with first announcements

MEGACON Orlando 2026 is officially underway with its first wave of celebrity announcements.

Fans can look forward to meeting an incredible lineup of stars, including John Cena (actor, wrestler); Orlando Bloom, Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, andBilly Boyd (The Lord of the Rings); John Boyega (Star Wars); Helen Hunt (Twister); Jonathan Frakes, Gates McFadden,andBrent Spiner (Star Trek: The Next Generation); Walter Koenig (Star Trek); Giancarlo Esposito (The Mandalorian); Josh Holloway (Lost); Ashley Eckstein (Founder, Her Universe); James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer); and Cedric Yarbrough and Thomas Lennon (Reno 11!). Additional celebrity guests will be announced in the weeks leading up to the event.

Fans can participate in celebrity Q&As, gaining rare insights and behind-the-scenes stories from their favorite stars. Photo ops and autograph sessions will allow attendees to capture these moments and create lasting keepsakes. As well as special moments such as: 

• AN EVENING WITH THE HOBBITS: IN CELEBRATION OF 25 YEARS – Join The Lord of the Rings 25th Anniversary Reunion Tour: A Once-in-a-Generation Celebration as Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, and Billy Boyd reunite for to celebrate 25 years of Middle-earth magic. Choose from an exclusive backstage pass, team-up or individual photo ops and autographs, and tickets to their special panel, An Evening with the Hobbits: In Celebration of 25 Years. Guests will also have access to exclusive merch.
• John Cena Live – Meet John Cena with autographs, photo ops, and special experiences like John Cena Live.
• On Stage with Orlando Bloom – Meet Orlando Bloom with autographs, photo ops, and special experiences like On Stage with Orlando Bloom. 
• Jim Lee Experience – Comic book royalty is coming to MEGACON Orlando. Don’t miss your chance to snag exclusive autographs and sketch experiences with Jim Lee.
• Frank Miller Experience – Get ready to dive into the shadows of Gotham with the creator of Batman: The Dark Knight Returns. Guests will enjoy exclusive backstage access with a private welcome talk before everyone else gets in, priority seating, and signed collectibles to take home. Pick either the Frank Miller Experience or Frank Miller Sketch Package and lock in those coveted autographs. Get up close and personal with comic book legend Frank Miller.
• Joe Quesada Experience – Join MEGACON for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the legendary creator. Whether you are attending a special presentation with Joe Quesada Live on Stage, getting your hands on exclusive merch, or taking the perfect selfie and autograph, there’s a perfect fan experience for every comic lover.

Masters of Cosplay Grand Finale

For the second year in a row, MEGACON Orlando will host the Masters of Cosplay Grand Finale in March, bringing together the 2025 qualifier winners for an unforgettable showdown. Award-winning cosplayers from across North America will compete for the grand prize of $10,000, while MEGACON also serves as the home of the 2026 Masters of Cosplay Sunshine Qualifier. At MEGACON, cosplay fantasies come to life and the possibilities are endless.

Fans can connect with professional cosplayers, dive deeper into the art and craft of cosplay, and proudly showcase their own creations on the Cosplay Red Carpet. Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy nonstop cosplay-focused programming and themed meet-ups celebrating creativity and community.

Adding to the excitement is Comics Xplosion, an epic live art battle that puts the spotlight on the best in comic creation. Watch top illustrators go head-to-head as they bring fan-favorite characters to life in real time, then take home one-of-a-kind artwork when the competition ends. Comic Xplosion is included with guests’ MEGACON Orlando show badge.

Beyond cosplay and comics, MEGACON Orlando offers something for every fan. Sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts can explore panels, workshops, and family-friendly experiences that span galaxies and timelines, featuring stars from some of the biggest franchises. Animation fans can meet the voices behind beloved characters and engage in programming that highlights the artistry of animation. Gamers can level up in the Gaming Arena with tournaments, free-play stations, tabletop games, and Q&As with the voices behind their favorite video game characters.

Exclusive Universal Orlando Resort after-hours event planned for 2026

Additionally, MEGACON Orlando 2026 will host after-hours event at Universal Orlando Resort on Friday, March 20. Attendees will enjoy unlimited access to select rides and attractions at Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. Tickets are available online now.

MEGACON Orlando remains one of North America’s largest and most immersive pop culture conventions, celebrating comics, sci‑fi, fantasy, horror, anime, and gaming. Single‑day tickets and limited four‑day passes for 2026 are now available for purchase online. For a complete list of programming, guest announcements, and tickets, visit fanexpohq.com/megaconorlando.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Guests may choose from starters such as Spinach Oshitashi or our signature Tuna Tartare, followed by entrées including pan-roasted Glazed Duck, Chilean Sea Bass with yuzu ginger beurre blanc, or a vibrant vegan Yellow Pepper Farcies. The evening will finish with an elegant Pink Champagne Mousse or Musée dessert.

This Valentine’s Day special is available Feb. 13 to Feb. 15 with seatings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost of the dinner is $125 per person plus tax and 20 percent required gratuity. Guests should note that this is a multi-course experience with intentional pacing between courses to ensure the highest quality of preparation.

Reservations can be made on OpenTable. The dress code is dress to impress with smart casual attire preferred. No sneakers, no athletic wear, no hats, and no exceptions.

For those looking to stay at the hotel, ette Hotel is offering Florida and Georgia residents 15 percent off on their hotel package and a daily $50 breakfast credit per room. Rooms are currently going for $334 a night as of January 19. If you stay, don’t miss their Afternoon Tea as well. Private black car transportation to ette Hotel is available upon request and must be arranged in advance for additional fee.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.

Plentiful food and shopping options at Panda Fest Orlando

Guests will enjoy a weekend filled with a variety of food, live performances and arts and crafts from both local and national vendors, plus interactive panda-themed experiences designed for all ages.

There will be 80+ food vendors and food trucks offering 200+ dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and others. There will also be  20+ vendors offering crafts, clothing, accessories and artisan goods inspired by Asian heritage.

The schedule for Panda Fest Orlando is:

• Friday, Feb. 27 | 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Saturday, Feb. 28 | 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sunday, Mar. 1 | 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tickets are now available at pandafests.com and start at $14 for general admission. VIP tickets start at $35 and includes special gifts, a fast pass for entrance, VIP areas and bathrooms. The event is familyf-friendly and children ages 6 and up will require a ticket and strollers are allowed. Pets are not allowed except for service-animals. The event is rain-or-shine. Small bags will be allowed after a security screening.

New York City roots behind Panda Fest nationwide tour

Founded by BiuBiu Xu, Panda Fest began in 2024 as a one-day pop-up in New York City and quickly grew into a multi-city, multi-day celebration. Panda Fest has now expanded to 11 cities across the East Coast, West Coast and central U.S. regions, including Phoenix, Dallas, Austin, Nashville, Charlotte, Hartford, Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, Seattle and Minneapolis/St. Paul, with many cities holding sold-out events.

“We are thrilled to announce our first city for 2026 and first-ever event in Orlando, jumpstarting our biggest year yet—an extra meaningful milestone to us,” says Xu.

“We know the PANDA FEST fans have been waiting for an event in Orlando, which has such a vibrant, diverse and family-friendly community that is perfect for PANDA FEST. After selling out in city after city, we know Orlando is ready for the panda-monium, and we can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable weekend of food, culture and fun all coming together.”

Enhancements coming the festival after feedback from prior attendees include smoother and faster entry with more staffing, additional timed ticketing options to provide greater flexibility, budget-friendly eats under $15 alongside larger portions, more drink stations to keep guests refreshed, shaded VIP seating and increased signage to help guests navigate the festival grounds with ease.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.