In a world full of “It’s Gonna Be May” memes, I like to remember May is coming with a fun misinterpretation of “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll.”
I thought of the May memes when I was writing about a few May events at the parks.
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Hello, “In the Loop” followers. I’m Haley, back with another edition of my newsletter and getting you up to speed on announcements and buzz surrounding Central Florida’s attractions.
GATORLAND
🐊 A Diamond Jubilee with Jawlene
Whether you call Florida home or are a non-Florida resident whose vacations revolve around Central Florida theme parks, don’t skip on Gatorland.
Not only is the “Alligator Capital Of The World” a more affordable option compared to the big three in town, but it’s also a true Florida gem. I’ve always loved the fact that it can proudly say it’s Orlando’s oldest attraction.
In May, Gatorland is celebrating its 75th anniversary and once again, it’s throwing a Gatorpalooza. And with a name like that, it is what you’d expect: live music, special food, craft vendors and gators, gators, gators!
You’ve probably heard about a few famous inhabitants of the park. Gatorland says Jawlene (the rescued alligator missing its upper jaw) and the world’s rarest alligators, Mystic the Leucistic and her brother Mayhem, will be there for the public to see.
Gatorpalooza is included with park admission. Click here for information.
SEAWORLD ORLANDO
⛑ SeaWorld to the rehabilitation rescue
Thanks to the rescue team effort by Florida Fish and Wildlife, ZooTampa, Clearwater Aquarium and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, a Florida manatee is now receiving the proper care at SeaWorld Orlando.
This is the second time the manatee has needed rescuing and rehabilitation. His thin condition as well as his health history were deciding factors in support of further care and rehabilitation.
SeaWorld has rescued over 41,000 sick, injured, and orphaned animals in need. The park credits its partner agencies in helping to make the rescues, rehabilitations, and returns possible.
WALT DISNEY WORLD
Boat racing at dawn
Diligence, approachability and patience are all characteristics of a Walt Disney World cast member. Teams work together every single day to bring joy and magic to Walt Disney World guests. Once a year, a different kind of cast member teamwork takes place on the water at the Magic Kingdom.
This week, dozens of cast members participated in the Canoe Races of the World, aka C.R.O.W. Between sunup and park open, cast members board a canoe and paddle around Tom Sawyer’s Island.
I’m always impressed by a cast member’s energy, and Thursday’s race was no different.
After the final race, I interviewed four cast members about their involvement in the event as well as what their favorite Walt Disney World nautical attraction is.
🐘 Search and sniff a ‘smellephant’
So many guests will agree that the best thing about visiting a Disney Park is the snack options. Starting next month, a new interactive experience will allow guests to seek out snacks in the form of statues.
Disney has revealed a first look of the installation of “Smellephants on Parade” presented by Scentsy, a search-and-sniff experience at the Storybook Circus. Upon entering the land, guests will be greeted by a casting call posted by Timothy Q. Mouse, seeking out a “Whiff-sistant” to join Dumbo’s newest act.
We know that popcorn “smellephants” have made an appearance, and there will also be churro and cotton candy at some point. I declare myself a Dole Whip “Whiff-sistant.”
Now that May is almost here, it’s time to think about planning summer theme park trips. I mentioned last week about this great Universal Orlando deal for Florida residents that’s perfect for a family getaway.
As always, feel free to keep me in the loop through my email or reach out to me on my X or Instagram.
See you next week!