Orlando's Dazzling Delights: Unicorns, Sharks, and Culinary Wonders Await

Orlando is alive with energy and full of unique adventures, especially this week, offering something for every listener. This July 11-13, the Hourglass District hosts its 6th Anniversary Weekend, starting with Drag Bingo on Friday, the delightfully offbeat Shrek Burlesque on Saturday, and an Emo Night on Sunday. Sip specialty beers or seltzers while celebrating with locals and visitors alike. At Judson’s Live, country music enthusiasts can catch Nashville Night, featuring renowned songwriters Wyatt Durrette and Levi Lowrey in a behind-the-scenes experience that highlights the craft behind your favorite hits.

Fans of magical creatures shouldn’t miss Unicorn World at the Orange County Convention Center, where families can meet “real” unicorns, craft magical souvenirs, and play in enchanted gardens. For ocean lovers, SharkCon 2025 returns to Orlando, bringing shark experts and conservationists together for a fascinating weekend dedicated to the mysteries of the sea. The Orlando Museum of Art is offering a Highlights Tour on July 13, perfect for those seeking inspiration from acclaimed exhibits in a serene setting.

Music lovers have even more to look forward to: Big Time Rush lights up the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa on July 13, performing every song from their hit TV series. Also on July 13, Lake Eola Park will celebrate Peruvian culture at the Peruvian Fest Orlando, featuring live music, authentic food, and vibrant performances, all free to enjoy.

Orlando’s culinary scene is buzzing with Bite30, which runs until July 13. Listeners can explore special menus and deals across Orlando’s top restaurants, from innovative takes on Florida citrus to Cuban-inspired bites. Over at Disney Springs, Flavors of Florida continues through August 10, showcasing the region’s best flavors at more than 40 restaurants, complete with pairing events and culinary demos.

For immersive theme park thrills, Universal Orlando Resort’s latest addition, Epic Universe, opened just this May, boasting over 50 attractions across five imaginative worlds – including Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Magical Ministry, and Super Nintendo World. Long-time favorites like the Incredible Hulk Coaster and the Jurassic World VelociCoaster still get hearts racing. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom dazzles with classics; the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure are must-rides for families, while the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean never lose their spooky allure.

Adventurers seeking natural beauty have their pick of experiences. Lake Louisa State Park, just 30 minutes from downtown, features tranquil lakes for kayaking and fishing, expansive trails for hiking and biking, and serene picnic areas under ancient oaks. Orlando’s network of lakes, natural springs, and bike paths invite outdoor exploration, from airboat rides with Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures to zip-lining across Gatorland’s Screamin’ Gator Zip Line.

Quirky local events this week include the Florida Vintage Market at Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company on July 13, where listeners can shop curated vintage finds from local vendors, grab food truck fare, and sip craft brews. Bok Tower Gardens’ Fruit Fest on July 12 lets visitors sample rare fruits and hear expert horticulturists, while The Yard Stop Garden Center in Mount Dora will host its Annual Butterfly Release with 1,000 butterflies filling the air.

For a whimsical twist, Christmas in July at The Florida Mall turns the mall into a sunny North Pole with Santa visits, snow flurries, and holiday crafts each Saturday. Movie buffs can catch a free outdoor screening of the cult classic Legend at Central Park in Winter Park on July 10 as part of Enzian Theater’s 40th anniversary celebration.

For those craving art and nightlife, Thornton Park District is holding evening tasting events where listeners can wander between...