Orlando Unplugged: November News & Updates

As November unfolds, we look back at the lively headlines that defined October in Orlando. From spirited festivals and community celebrations to the unveiling of new dining experiences, last month was filled with memorable moments that captivated both residents and visitors. Join us as we recap the headlines from October, keeping you informed about the exciting developments that shaped our city!

Originally published on October 30th, 2024. Updated for accuracy.

Savor Local Flavors at the 23rd Annual Taste of Thornton Park

Mark your calendars for the 23rd Annual Taste of Thornton Park, taking place on November 7th from 6:30-9:30PM. This event supports local initiatives, including the maintenance of the Four Rivers Fountain. Attendees can enjoy unlimited food and drinks from neighborhood vendors, live DJ entertainment, and an awards ceremony in a lively street-party atmosphere. Advance tickets are $40 and $50 at the gate—don’t miss this flavorful community gathering!

Discover Orlando’s Creative Side at Zine Fest 2024

Orlando Zine Fest returns December 14th, celebrating the region's vibrant self-publishing scene with a one-night showcase of zines, art, and creativity. Held at Blackbird Comics and Coffeehouse, this free event invites visitors to explore a variety of unique print works, from handmade magazines to quirky art books. Participants interested in exhibiting can sign up for a spot to display and sell their creations. Don’t miss this unique gathering of Orlando's indie publishing community!

El Coqui Bakery Brings Puerto Rican Flavors to Sanford

El Coqui Bakery has opened its second location in Sanford, offering an authentic taste of Puerto Rican cuisine. Known for its signature coquitrón sandwich, cheese bread, and classic pastries like quesitos and tres leches, El Coqui is a family-owned bakery where tradition meets flavor. Step into the lively new space and enjoy a variety of fresh breads, empanadas, and sweet treats, all made daily by the Rosa sisters, whose culinary roots run deep.

Evergreen Juice Bar Brings Fresh Flavors to Downtown Orlando

Evergreen Juice Bar is set to open soon at 415 E. Central Blvd., bringing cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and healthy eats to the heart of Orlando. Known for its vibrant green tile interior, this juice bar will also offer acai bowls and specialty toasts, perfect for a quick, nutritious boost. Stay tuned for their official opening and get ready to sip on some refreshing and revitalizing options!

Orlando Police Department Launches New Safety App

The Orlando Police Department has introduced a new app designed to enhance community safety and engagement. Through this user-friendly tool, residents can stay informed with real-time updates on local incidents, access crime prevention tips, and keep track of neighborhood events. The app also offers convenient features like public records requests and career resources, making OPD services more accessible than ever. Download it today from the App Store or Google Play!

Orange County’s Interactive Storm Debris Map Helps Residents Stay Informed

Orange County Public Works has launched an interactive map for residents to track storm debris cleanup after Hurricane Milton. This handy tool allows users to monitor cleanup progress in their neighborhood by entering their address and viewing real-time updates. With over 20 million pounds of debris already collected, officials estimate an additional month to complete the work. Visit the map online to see current cleanup efforts in your area.

Tyler, the Creator’s CHROMAKOPIA World Tour Brings New Sounds to Orlando

Tyler, the Creator is set to bring his CHROMAKOPIA World Tour to Orlando’s Kia Center on March 22nd, 2025. Celebrating his latest album, the tour will showcase his genre-blending artistry, with support from hip-hop duo Paris Texas. Tickets go on general sale November 1st, with pre-sale options available for American Express cardholders and Ticketmaster members.

Hicks Avenue Extension Completes in Orlando

The new Hicks Avenue extension is officially open, enhancing connections between South Street and Gore Street. In partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation, this project introduces widened sidewalks, dedicated bike lanes, improved stormwater management, and convenient I-4 access, creating a safer, more connected route for Parramore and Holden Heights.

Downtown Orlando Eyes New 10-Story Hotel Project

Plans for a 10-story hotel at 47 W. Jefferson Street are moving forward, offering a potential 253-room accommodation with retail space and a luxury rooftop experience. As the project undergoes review by the Appearance Review Board, downtown Orlando awaits another exciting addition to its hospitality scene.

Yeast Coast Bakehouse Opens in College Park

With a nostalgic 90s vibe, Yeast Coast Bakehouse brings small-batch, yeast-based treats and coffee to Edgewater Drive, delighting College Park patrons. Open Friday through Sunday, this bakery is a cozy addition by the team behind Cups and Pups Coffee.

HBO’s “It’s Florida, Man” Series Spotlights Orlando Story

HBO's new series, It’s Florida, Man, debuts with a humorous, Orlando-based tale that dives into the wacky side of Florida culture. Inspired by the infamous “Florida Man” meme, the series kicks off with a wild Orlando story starring Sam Richardson.

Urban Ember Art Installation Launches in Downtown Orlando

Orlando’s DTOLive unveils its latest installation, Urban Ember, a vibrant LED-lit seating sculpture in the heart of Downtown. This Creative City Project initiative, supported by the Downtown Development Board, brings interactive art to the streets, further enriching Orlando’s cultural landscape.

Outpost Neighborhood Tavern to Replace Persimmon Hollow Space

Outpost Neighborhood Tavern is coming soon to the former Persimmon Hollow Brewing location near Lake Eola. Owned by Devon Tillman, this new concept will offer local performances and a familiar community feel, promising to become a new favorite in the area.

Downtown Orlando Mural Festival Art Available in Online Auction

Artwork from the recent mural festival is now available for auction, with bids starting at $250. Support local artists and the Downtown Arts District by bidding on these unique 8x8 canvases until November 22nd.

Live Nation to Manage New Entertainment Venue in Magic District

Downtown Orlando's upcoming Westcourt development will include a 3,500-seat Live Nation venue, set to host concerts and community events. Scheduled for completion by 2027, this venue will add a dynamic new layer to the city's entertainment scene.

Orlando Coffee Festival Debuts at Festival Park

The first Orlando Coffee Festival will kick off on November 16, featuring tastings, workshops, and an array of local coffee purveyors at Festival Park. Enjoy a coffee-fueled day with Orlando Coffee Culture and Zaza Coffee, making it a must-attend for coffee enthusiasts.

Operation Blue Roof Assists Hurricane Milton Victims in Florida

Operation Blue Roof, a free service by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provides temporary roof protection for storm-impacted Floridians. Eligible residents can register by November 5th to receive this vital aid, covering over 20 affected counties, including Orlando.

Kia Center Adds More Local Flavor with New Food & Beverage Experiences

The Kia Center in Downtown Orlando has elevated its dining options with the "Orlando Table," featuring local favorites like Nauti Lobstah, Black Rooster Taqueria, and Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream. Expanding with a 4(or)7 Menu and new chef-driven dishes, Kia Center brings the best of Orlando’s culinary scene under one roof, with local vendors across its concourse and premium lounges. New for this year, guests can also enjoy the all-new Tavern on Church, an upscale sports bar offering signature dishes and craft beers.

67 Hurricane Babies Welcomed at AdventHealth During Storm

AdventHealth for Women welcomed 67 newborns during Hurricane Milton’s landfall in Florida, including 32 in Tampa, 11 in Orlando, and others across Central Florida. Hundreds of medical professionals staffed facilities around the clock to safely deliver these “hurricane babies” amidst the storm.

Amtrak Launches Temporary Chicago to Orlando Route

Amtrak introduces "The Floridian," a new temporary route connecting Chicago to Miami, including stops in Orlando, Jacksonville, and more. The 47-hour journey features reclining seats, first-class options, and sleeper cabins with showers. Departing on November 10th, this route offers a scenic cross-country travel experience.

Florida Fashion Week Debuts at Four Seasons Orlando

Florida Fashion Week debuted on October 25th, at Four Seasons Resort Orlando, featuring runway shows with luxury designers from Wardrobe Boutique and emerging talents. Hosted by Nayrouz Olarte and the International Fashion Federation, the event celebrated high fashion with collections by brands like Missoni and Balmain, alongside local designers.

Orlando Considers Converting Best Western Hotel into Affordable Housing

The Best Western Hotel at 2014 W Colonial Drive in Rock Lake may soon be converted into affordable housing. SL Capital Group has filed paperwork to transform the 110-room property into an attainable housing complex, with plans to retain the popular restaurant, Taste of Chengdu. The proposal will be reviewed by the Municipal Planning Board on August 19th.

Trulieve Opens New Orlando Dispensary with Grand Celebration

Trulieve’s newest medical cannabis dispensary opened on October 25th at 7225 West Colonial Drive. The grand opening event featured music, discounts, and educational sessions on Florida’s adult cannabis use initiative. The dispensary will offer a wide selection of products, including exclusive in-house and partner brands, along with a 20% discount for veterans.

Ivanhoe Village to Transform Lot into Pocket Park

Ivanhoe Village Main Street is turning an underused lot on Virginia Drive into a welcoming pocket park. Plans include native plants, artistic seating, and existing oak trees, designed by the Ivanhoe Village Design Committee. The project is primarily funded by a grant but still seeks community donations to match the funds and bring this new green space to life.

Orlando Airport Recognized as a Top Location for Breastfeeding Amenities

Orlando International Airport has been ranked second in the U.S. by Mamava for breastfeeding and pumping accommodations. With 19 nursing rooms and pods spread across all terminals, Orlando International provides a family-friendly atmosphere for parents on the go. These dedicated spaces ensure comfort and privacy, setting a high standard for airports nationwide.

Sweet Rolled Tacos to Open First Orlando Location

Sweet Rolled Tacos, a California-based ice cream concept, is bringing its unique rolled ice cream and waffle tacos to Orlando. Founded in 2017, the brand combines artful aesthetics with handcrafted ice cream, rolled on a cold plate and served in colorful waffle taco cones. The new 1,904 sq ft shop will open soon at 534 S Chickasaw Trail, adding to its popular food truck presence across Central Florida.

Rare Sumatran Tiger Cub Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney's Animal Kingdom is celebrating the birth of Bakso, a rare male Sumatran tiger cub. Born to Sohni and Conrad, Bakso’s arrival was planned in cooperation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums as part of the Species Survival Plan, which supports endangered species. Bakso and his mother are currently bonding backstage and are expected to make their public debut at the Maharajah Jungle Trek within a few months.

Orlando Launches Last-Mile Ride Service ‘Ride DTO’

Orlando’s CRA introduces Ride DTO, an on-demand downtown ride service in partnership with Circuit Transit. Available daily from 8AM to 8PM, the eco-friendly service lets users book rides within the downtown core via a dedicated app for just $1. New app users can redeem three free rides with code “RIDEDTO,” making this initiative a convenient last-mile connection option for locals and visitors alike.

Disney’s Affordable Housing Project in Horizon West Moves Forward

Disney has received final approval to develop a new affordable housing community in Horizon West, just miles from Magic Kingdom. Partnering with The Michaels Organization, Disney plans to build over 1,000 affordable units, alongside public paths, parks, and community spaces across nearly 80 acres. This thoughtfully designed community aims to support essential workers in Central Florida, with applications open to qualified residents of all professions.

Giovanni’s Pizzeria & Kitchen Opens in Davenport

Giovanni’s Pizzeria & Kitchen is bringing its beloved Italian fare to Davenport, FL, with a grand opening on October 17th. With over 30 years of serving the Orlando area, the new location will offer handcrafted pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and hearty salads, all made with seasonal ingredients. To celebrate, the first 94 guests will receive a coupon for a free large pizza, and attendees can enjoy tableside tastings and spin a prize wheel for fun giveaways.

Air France Announces Direct Flights from Paris to Orlando

Starting May 21st, 2025, Air France will launch direct flights connecting Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Orlando, with four flights weekly on Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Orlando will become the airline's 18th U.S. destination, enhancing its global network alongside popular cities like New York and Miami. The new service promises to provide travelers with convenient access to Orlando's world-renowned theme parks and cultural attractions, with a flight schedule designed for seamless travel between the two cities.

Universal Orlando Announces Ticket Details for Epic Universe Opening

Universal Orlando Resort's highly anticipated Epic Universe will open on May 22nd, 2025, featuring five immersive worlds, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. The park promises over 50 attractions, themed dining, and the Universal Helios Grand Hotel with exclusive park access. Starting October 22nd, guests can purchase multi-day tickets, including admission to Epic Universe, along with hotel reservations. Options include 3, 4, and 5-day tickets, with the opportunity to add Universal Volcano Bay. Annual Passholders can buy single-day tickets beginning October 24th. Additional ticket details will be announced soon.

Orlando Fashion Square Mall Listed for Sale Amid Redevelopment Prospects

The Orlando Fashion Square Mall, a 625,000-square-foot retail property, is now on the market, managed by Dallas-based brokerage Edge. This sale, representing TBB Orlando LLC, comes as the mall faces significant declines in foot traffic and the closure of major tenants like Sears and JCPenney. Despite efforts to revitalize the space with new restaurants and stores, interest from developers suggests a potential transformation to align with modern retail trends.

Eola Food Hall Set to Bring Diverse Dining to Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando is set to welcome the Eola Food Hall, offering around 10 new dining options in the former University Club space at 150 E. Central Blvd. Spanning 32,000 square feet, the food hall will feature a variety of local chefs and entrepreneurs, along with a full-service restaurant and speakeasy. Construction begins by year-end, with a planned opening in late 2025, promising stunning views of Lake Eola and the upcoming park extension. Developer James Ekbatani highlights the project’s focus on inclusivity and celebration of local culture.