ORLANDO, Fla. – AAA predicts Independence Day travel will reach new records both nationally and in Florida, with Orlando being a top destination. And that means Central Florida theme parks will likely see an uptick in crowds.
Below is a round-up of what you can look forward to if you plan on heading out to Central Florida’s world-class theme parks for the Fourth of July.
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Walt Disney World
Celebrating a holiday at The Most Magical Place on Earth makes a day at Walt Disney World all the more memorable, as the resort is known for its decorations, experiences, and cuisine.
- Dazzling fireworks: Red, white, blue and more brightly colored fireworks will light up the night sky over the Magic Kingdom. “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will take place on July 3 and July 4 at 9:20 p.m. At EPCOT, “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” will follow Luminous: The Symphony of Us” at 9 p.m. on July 4.
- The Flag Retreat: Every day at 5 p.m. in the Magic Kingdom Town Square, a ceremony retires the American flag for the night in a tribute to U.S. veterans. The gratitude among cast members and guests is all the more appreciative on a day when freedom rings loudly.
- Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors: The newly-opened EPCOT art exhibit features 60 oil paintings of service members and veterans who have served in military uniform with honor since 9/11. Not only is it a special salute, but a showcase of talent by a former president.
- Voices of Liberty Harmonies at EPCOT: The legendary acappella vocal group will perform patriotic numbers throughout the day in the rotunda of The American Adventure.
- Spaceship Earth: Red, white and blue lights will envelop the EPCOT’s flagship attraction. Guests can enjoy the patriotic glow in World Celebration, which is part of the park’s recently completed multi-year transformation.
- Special Photo Ops: Mickey, Donald Duck, and Goofy don their “Spirit of ‘76″ attire, something that only happens on July 4.
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort guests can celebrate the Fourth of July with special entertainment at Universal Studios Florida and Universal CityWalk.
- Universal Studios Florida festivities: Entertainment kicks off at 6:15 p.m. at the Music Plaza Stage and will include a live DJ, character meet-and-greets, and roaming patriotic stiltwalkers. Guests will also want to stick around for two lagoon shows — the all-new CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular at 9 p.m., then a festive pyrotechnic display at 10 p.m.
- Universal CityWalk festivities: Starting at 5 p.m., guests can enjoy music from a DJ and live bands, American Sirens and Rexine, at the Plaza and Waterfront stages. Patriotic stiltwalkers will also roam throughout Universal CityWalk’s Promenade.
- Florida resident perk: The long holiday weekend is the perfect time to take advantage of the “Buy 2 Days, Get 2 Days Free on a 2-Park 2-Day Ticket” offer, which gives Florida residents four days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is hosting a lineup of summer festivities fit for Independence Day and beyond.
- Ignite Fireworks: With the help of music, lighting, and pyrotechnics, Ignite Fireworks brings the brilliance of the sea up into the air.
- Club SeaGlow: Bayside Stadium is a scene of dancing, lights, and music, as a DJ plays host to a summer party.
- Bands, Brew and BBQ Event: Running for eight consecutive weekends from July 6 through August 25, guests can indulge on BBQ, and refreshing brews.
- 4th of July Sale: Guests can take advantage of the Best Sale of the Year — the 4th of July Sale, offering up to 55% off tickets, Fun Cards, and annual passes through June 30.
LEGOLAND Florida
Bricks and booms is the Fourth of July theme at LEGOLAND Florida Resort.
Starry activities: Guests can help construct an American flag, brick by brick, guided by Master Model Builders from 1-7 p.m. on July 4.
Stars, stripes & snacks: The limited-time-only Red, White & Blueberry Sundae features two scoops of decadent blueberry cheesecake ice cream, with blueberry sauce, a delicate sugar cookie, and a cloud of whipped cream, topped with playful star-spangled sprinkles and served in a souvenir cup.
Booming entertainment: From 6-8 p.m., a rockin’ DJ dance party will ignite the patriotic groove before the fireworks show.
Go out with a BANG!: The park caps off Independence Day with an unforgettable fireworks show called Touch The Sky over Lake Eloise. All guests are encouraged to wear special and unique 3D viewing glasses that transform the fireworks into LEGO bricks right before your eyes.
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