Spend the Weekend at Walt Disney World in Orlando

This weekend, pack up your gear and head to Orlando for the International Dragon Boat Festival! Enthusiasts travel from all over the country to participate in this fun event located in Downtown Disney West Side. Dragon boating originated in southern central China more than 2,500 years ago during the same era that the Olympics were being established in ancient Greece. In China, dragons are traditionally believed to be the rulers of the river. So dragon boating began as an annual water ritual during festival celebrations. Now it is a competitive sport practiced across the world. The rules have changed quite a bit over the last 2,500 years but the tradition remains. Each long boat is affixed with a dragon at the front, it holds 20 paddlers, 1 person to steer, and 1 person motivating at the front. The paddlers strive to work in unison to create a sport that is truly fascinating. So take a break from your Disney vacation to watch this spectacular competition on Saturday October 20!

Walt Disney World

When you’re done watching the competition, experience the magic in Orlando at Walt Disney World. You are never too old to the beloved Disney character Mickey and all his best pals. This theme park packs the family fun into four different parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Can’t choose? Pick up Disney’s Magic Your Way Ticket to see everything! The spectacular world of Disney starts in the Magic Kingdom Park where fairy tales come true in a beautiful castle. Cinderella’s iconic castle stands in the middle of the park surrounded by enchanting shows, whimsical rides, and wonderful parades with your favorite characters. Head into the wild in the Animal Kingdom Park where all your favorite Disney animals characters reside. The park is home more than 1,700 animals and 250 species on 500 acres of beautiful African safari landscaping. Take a safari expedition to see exotic animals from Africa up close, travel back to the time of dinosaurs on an interactive ride, or gaze at the 14-story, 50-foot-wide Tree of Life in the middle of the park. You’ll even spot Safari Mickey and Minnie in the park. Next, travel the globe in EPCOT which is split into two parks: Future World and World Showcase. The iconic Spaceship Earth polyhedral welcomes you to explore all the wonders of Future World. The inspiring ride takes you traveling through 40,000 years since the dawn of man. Pavilions surrounding Future World comprise the World Showcase where you’ll learn about different countries all over the world. Kids can grab a passport to take to each pavilion where they’ll receive a country stamp and get the chance to create one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Finally, head to Disney’s Hollywood Studios that holds the infamous Tower of Terror that drops you 13 stories into the Twilight Zone! You’ll also have the chance to go behind-the-scenes on a studio lot, watch as Indiana Jones recreates the most captivating scenes from the movies, or hang out with your favorite Disney/Pixar stars. Pick up tickets for just one day or extend the vacation for 10 days! With so many parks, you’ll never run out of stuff to do! For more information on ticket information, follow this link.

Take your pick from hotels, resorts, and lodges in the area. Find a hotel attached to a gorgeous golf course for the beautiful views and to spend a relaxing day on the course. Book a resort close to Walt Disney World with an attached water park the whole family will love. Choose a comfy hotel with beautiful views of Orlando. Or escape the city to stay close to the gorgeous wetlands surrounding the city. No matter what, you are bound to find the perfect lodging for you and the family!