Style Events, News & Gossip from Around Orlando
A recap of March in Central Florida: A whirlwind of excitement!
Florida might not have much of a winter, but spring is absolutely stunning in the Sunshine State. As a result, March is a busy season for events throughout the City Beautiful. Here are just a few highlights, just in case you missed it!
The first 10 days in March brought one of the States’ favorite fairs back into town! Founded way back in 1910, the Central Florida Fair attracts an average of 250,000 visitors each year with a variety of entertainment for all ages. The fair aims to celebrate the agriculture, education, history and cultural legacy of Central Florida. Through March 10th, visitors were able to watch creative arts and competitive exhibits in between enjoying traditional fair rides, games and food. Energetic music acts kept the fun flowing each day with live music on 3 separate stages while more than 2,000 livestock animals were also on display for all to see.
Now in its 83rd year, Daytona Bike week was a legendary event filled with festivals, concerts, bike shows, street parties and much more. From March 1-10, Daytona Beach transformed into a hub of motorcycle culture during this annual celebration. Guests who brought their motorcycles along could even ride “The Loop” which featured 22 miles of open road for riders to enjoy. From high-end manufacturer displays to top-of-the-line gear and more, there was so much to see and do at Daytona’s beloved event.
As part of SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival, guests of the park were invited to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with tasty food, seasonal cocktails and lively entertainment. From March 7-10 and March 14-17, the park was transformed with all the sights, sounds, and flavors of Ireland’s favorite tradition on both weekends. The St. Patrick’s Day Celebration featured an Irish Market Plaza that came to life throughout the day with incredible entertainers while guests lost themselves in Irish melodies as traditional musicians brought their beautiful sounds to Orlando throughout the day. Tastes of Ireland offerings even included an authentic Shepherd’s Pie and a Shamrock Sour, the exclusive St. Patrick’s Day cocktail.
On March 9th, those looking for a unique Central Florida activity joined Osceola History for an evening outdoor fundraiser to help Osceola History’s mission to collect, preserve and share the County’s history while promoting the area’s cultural and natural heritage. Dine With The Departed was held at Historic Rose Hill Cemetery and featured a twilight dinner with some of Kissimmee’s departed graveyard residents. After the catered meal and a silent and live auction, guests were taken on a lantern-lit tour of the cemetery. All proceeds from this event benefitted Osceola History’s educational programs and efforts to preserve Osceola County’s oldest structures and artifacts.
Those who were looking for an authentic St. Patrick’s Day celebration headed to Raglan Road at Disney Springs for the 2024 Raglan Road Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival. From March 14-17, the event featured live entertainment, traditional food, gift competitions, loads of giveaways and endless fun for all the family. Live music from award-winning imported Irish bands and the Raglan Road Irish Dancers were on all week in the lead-up to the mother of all Irish holidays. The most authentic Irish festival in America also featured five outside bars, fun St. Paddy’s merchandise, and much more.
Barbecue enthusiasts got the best of both worlds from March 15-16 at Shamrockin’ Fest 2024! In addition to sampling mouthwatering BBQ, chili and sauces on top of beers and wines from around the world, attendees were also able to enjoy live music, a kids play area, parade, fire trucks and plenty more vendors who set up shop at Gator Harley-Davidson in Leesburg. Proceeds from the family-friendly BBQ & Beer festival went to the Firefighter Charity of Central Florida, which helps local firefighters who are battling medical issues.
It was a historical journey back in time at the Battle at Narcoossee Mill event in St. Cloud! Families from all over came out to watch an authentic re-enactment of a Civil War battle including seeing how the soldiers’ camped and watching the cavalry in action. Held from March 22-24, the 3-day event also featured an Education Day giving you a glimpse into life in the 1800s. Attendees also had the opportunity to stroll “Sutler Row” featuring over 20 sutlers, vendors and historical displays not to mention delicious BBQ and snack samples. It was educational, fun for all the family and truly made for a day out with a difference!
Spring is in full bloom at Walt Disney World Resort! The popular and fragrant EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival sprung to life this month and runs through May 27 for plenty of days to enjoy fresh cuisine, colorful gardens, playful topiaries and vibrant entertainment. Gardeners will marvel at thousands of floating gardens, incredible topiaries, horticultural displays and tastebud temptations all around EPCOT. Plus, the Garden Rocks Concert Series returns with an incredible line up of headline acts and favorite tunes at the America Gardens Theatre. Don’t miss your chance to head over to EPCOT and join in on the action!
