Here’s the thing about central Florida: it can get very, very hot. Hot and sticky. You want to time your trip to beat the height of the heat. Winter having passed, and summer over the horizon, that means striking now, while the climate is still comparatively comfortable.
This perpetual entertainment epicenter of the East Coast has lots of day-in, day-out draws, such as Disney. But there are seasonal attractions too. Here are a few:
- Through April 29 – Steep yourself in The Serious Art of Make-Believe, a behind-the-scenes look at how they make the magic happen. This is a rare chance to get a glimpse of the creative genius that powers the area’s theme parks.
- Organizers hope Friday April 13 brings with it a bit of luck as the 21st Florida Film Festival begins its eight-day run. Set for screening are 168 cutting edge films from 31 countries. Aside form the flicks, there’s food – and very good food at that – served up by culinary stars such as Chad J. Galiano, and Martha Hall Foose.
- April 14 through May 5 – SeaWorld Orlando hosts Viva La Musica, a full-tilt celebration of Hispanic music, food and culture. Admission to the show is included in the single-day park admission.
- April 17 – Get set to see a modern classic, Disney’s The Lion King. Remember why you fell in love with this show to start with. Sure, it’s a cliché, but this really is a production where the whole family can find uncommonly common ground.
- April 18 – It’s time to head to nearby Winter Park, the Farmers’ Market to be precise. That’s where you’ll find the 27th Annual Taste of Winter Park. The music is courtesy of Johnny Mag Sax, and the food comes from some 40 local restaurants and eateries.
Lots of airlines will get you to Orlando for a comparatively good price. One of them is discount airline Allegiant, which specializes in jetting you there from a slew of small-town American airports.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: CURZU@)



