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Orlando turns 150! Celebrate with fun events, freebies, more

The City Beautiful incorporated July 31, 1875

"Bird's eye view of Orlando, Florida" 1884 (State Archives of Florida) (State Archives of Florida)

ORLANDO, Fla. – It’s a big day for Orlando as The City Beautiful officially turns 150 years old.

It was July 31 of 1875 when Orlando was first incorporated as a town with a population of — wait for it — 85 people. Obviously, things have changed quite a bit.

[MORE: Florida is the fastest-growing state over the last 4 years. What should people know about moving here?]

The city does have several events planned Thursday to celebrate. That’s going to include a day of service with projects planned by commissioners in each district.

There’s also going to be a “Discover Downtown” event with some stores offering special discounts. That runs from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Harry P. Leu Gardens, the Mennello Museum of American Art and the Orange County Regional History Center will also offer free admission Thursday.

[TRIVIA: Where the Mennellos lived and why they won’t fade]

Happy birthday, Orlando!

[WATCH BELOW: New exhibit celebrates 150 years of Orlando]


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