Free Disney Tickets For Volunteers

It’s been almost a year since Walt Disney World let it’s first guests in free during their,”Get In Free on Your Birthday” promotion and now Disney is set to give out more free Disney tickets in 2010 to those who work for it.

Disney launched a new promotional campaign this week, “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day,” through which it will distribute a million one-day, one-park tickets to people who volunteer at select charities.

With the program, which succeeds this year’s “Free Disney tickets on Your Birthday” campaign, Disney is continuing its strategy of using discounts to lure vacationers amid a challenging economic climate that is expected to stretch well into next year. But it also marrying the approach with a socially conscious message.

“The thrust of this program is really about inspiring people to consider and participate in volunteerism, with the hope that that will become a way of life for them,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We think, in this case, that doing good for our communities is good business.”

Beginning Jan.1, guests will be able to sign up for volunteer work through a Disney Web site. People will be able to choose from service opportunities provided through HandsOn Network, which links volunteers with more than 70,000 nonprofits across the country.

After guests have completed their community service, they will receive a voucher good for a one-day ticket to any theme park at either Walt Disney World or Disneyland. The promotion will continue until Dec. 15 or until the 1millionth ticket has been distributed, whichever occurs first.

The promotion appears to be similar in scope to Disney’s birthday campaign, which continues this year until Dec. 31. Rasulo said more than 3 million people have registered for the birthday passes so far this year, and about 30 percent have shown up to use them — about 900,000 free Disney tickets.

The volunteer promotion is the latest in a series of discounts Disney has rolled out this year to help to prop up attendance at its theme parks during the recession. Disney World, for example, has offered free hotel rooms, free meals and an extra three months on annual-pass renewals.

Rasulo said Disney intends to roll out further promotions soon. There are widespread rumors that Disney World is about to resurrect a popular, buy-four-get-three-free hotel package that it offered earlier this year, though in a slightly modified form.

“Frankly, we know that conditions haven’t changed that much in the economy,” said Rasulo, who called a separate report Tuesday that U.S. consumer confidence had unexpectedly dropped “a disappointment.”

For more information on discount attraction tickets to Walt Disney World, please visit our site at www.officialticketcenter.com or call us toll free at 1-877-406-4836. Remember to read our blog articles to stay up to date on important information and specials on attraction tickets.

This holiday season, families and friends can celebrate the holidays like never before at Sea World Orlando, Florida.  Beginning November 13th, they can take an exciting trip to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express Experience.  And starting November 27th, guests can enjoy the new holiday-themed shows and dining experiences that the park has to offer.

Ride The Polar Express Experience at Sea World

Attraction:  The Polar Express Experience

As the train’s whistle blows, guests embark on the same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience to the North Pole.  The attraction will replace Wild Arctic during the holiday season.  Classic scenes from the movie are recreated in a multi-sensory experience immersing passengers in special lighting, scent, sound, and motion effects.  Upon arrival, guests find themselves within a winter wonderland surrounded by holiday cheer, graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears, and giant walruses.  They will delight in the smell of Christmas cookies filling the air and bright lights glistening on a festive towering tree as families greet Santa and share in a magical moment.

Holday Shows

Shamu Christmas - Miracles

Sea World invites you to experience the power and beauty of their Shamu family in an all-new holiday celebration… Shamu Christmas – Miracles.  You’ll be immersed in a festive atmosphere of sight and sound, where thrilling holiday music soars throughout the night.  From the sweeping vocal majesty of the choir to the heart pounding excitement you’ve come to expect, Shamu Christmas – Miracles, takes you and your family on a wonderful new voyage into the heart of the holidays.

Shamu's Christmas Miracles Show at Sea World

Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas

Sea World’s prankster-loving pinnipeds Clyde and Seamore put a comical twist on some of their favorite holiday moments in this holiday-themed show.

Winter Wonderland on Ice

Sea World paints the night in jewels, ice, and light during an all-new ice skating spectacular.  Bayside Stadium is transformed into a holiday wonderland every evening during the season.  Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice as some of the most talented skaters in the world dazzle and delight.  With towering fountains of water dancing on the lake and fireworks lighting up the night sky, Sea World’s Christmas Ice Skating show is a don’t miss experience for the holidays.

A Sesame Street Christmas

Celebrate the holidays with friends from Sesame Street at Sea World – it’s an all-new festive and fun musical celebration, A Sesame Street Christmas.  The holidays have arrived, but Abby Cadabby doesn’t understand what all the fuss is about… she’s never heard of Christmas.  Elmo, Big Bird, and other Sesame Street friends gather together to share with her the true spirit of the holiday.  Following the show, families can create wonderful memories with their friends from Sesame Street during character meet-and-greets.

Celebrate Christmas with Shamu at Sea World!

Holiday Dining Experiences

Elmo and Friends Christmas Breakfast

You’re making your list and checking it twice because Elmo and his furry friends are coming to town for a very merry Christmas breakfast!  It’s a Christmasbreakfast sure to please you and your entire family, plus it’s a fun-filled way to start the day.  Elmo and Friends Christmas Breakfast offers a delicious buffet enjoyed with the hottest characters in town!

Makahiki Christmas Luau

The sounds of Christmas are re-interpreted by authentic Polynesian instruments to create a celebration of the season that’s familiar and new, innovative and yet as old as the culture of the islands themselves.  A festive experience for the whole family, The Makahiki Christmas Luau is a warm and moving celebration of culture and community as seen through the traditions of the Pacific Islands.  For tickets and reservations, click here.

For more information regarding Holiday Celebrations at the theme parks, check out Our Blog!  To purchase Discount Sea World Tickets and Makahiki Luau Tickets, please visit our Web site, or call us toll-free at 1-877-4064836.

Holiday Season In Orlando Florida

Central Florida theme parks celebrate the holiday season dressed to the nines — with 70-foot-tall Christmas trees, miles of garlands and millions of lights. Festive parades and holiday-themed entertainment add to the fun. With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day landing on a Friday this year, it’s easy to enjoy a jolly holiday getaway to Florida’s great themed attractions.

Here’s some of what’s in store this year. Attraction tickets are subject to price change without notice.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World — The holidays have added sparkle at the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on Nov. 10-Jan. Millions of lights brighten up the Studios with animated displays including flying angels while snow falls overhead. The spectacle is included in regular admission to the park: $84.14 for adults, $72.42 for children. Visit http://www.officialticketcenter.com/ for discount tickets to these events.

Epcot, Walt Disney World — Holidays Around The World add international flavor to the season Nov. 27-Dec. 30. This cherished Epcot tradition presents costumed storytellers like Los Tres Reyes Magos (the three Magi) in the Mexico pavilion and Pere Noel in France. Other festivities include a daily character tree-lighting ceremony, a light display and the Candlelight Processional presented at the park’s America Gardens Theatre with celebrity narrators, massed choir and 50-piece orchestra retelling the Christmas story in words and music. These events are included with your daily Epcot admission tickets. Admission is $84.14 for adults, $72.42 for children. Visit http://www.officialticketcenter.com/ for discount tickets to these events.

Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando Resort — Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure celebrates Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday tale and Universal Pictures’ and Imagine Entertainment’s Academy Award-winning movie How The Grinch Stole Christmas on Dec. 6-Jan. 1. The park’s Seuss Landing section is transformed with colorful decorations and visitors can meet the Grinch in his lair, which is outfitted with authentic movie props and gadgets. A live musical stage show re-tells the story of the bah-humbug Grinch. The festivities are included in regular admission: Admission is $84.14 for adults, $72.42 for children. Visit http://www.officialticketcenter.com/ for discount tickets to these events.

Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World — A parade featuring everything from gingerbread men and marching toy soldiers to Santa himself is one of the hightlights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, an evening event presented on select nights from Nov. 10 to Dec. 18. Other must-sees at the Magic Kingdom include the Castle Dream Lights, blanketing Cinderella Castle with sparkling white lights, holiday-themed shows, meet-and-greet opportunities with Disney characters, and Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season fireworks display. Magical snow falls on Main Street, U.S.A. and complimentary cocoa and cookies are served. The party is a separate ticket event with prices starting at $62.84 and from $56.45. Purchase these discount, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets thru The Official Ticket Center for $55.00 per Adult and $48.50 for Children.

Sea World, Orlando — Christmas at Sea World, Nov. 14-Jan. 2, features festive decorations, and snowfalls at The Waterfront section of the park. Other highlights include live holiday music from classical musicians and carolers. Florida and Georgia residents pay $69.17 for admission (adults and children). For information, visit http://www.officialticketcenter.com/.

Universal Studios, Universal Orlando Resort — Macy’s Holiday Parade takes to the streets at Universal Studios from Dec. 6 to Jan. 1. The extravaganza showcases some of the most popular balloons and floats from the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Another treat at Universal Studios is the tree-lighting ceremony with Santa Claus himself. The festivities are included in regular park admission: $84.14 for adults, $72.42 for children. Visit http://www.officialticketcenter.com/for discount tickets to this event.

Prefer to live it up on New Year’s Eve? Here are some options:

* New Year’s Eve at Sea World Orlando — Sea World Orlando is throwing a New Year’s Eve party with live music, fireworks and a countdown to 2010 at The Waterfront on Dec. 31. At the stroke of midnight, the Orlando sky is lit up with a fireworks display. The event is included in regular admission.

* New Year’s Eve at Universal CityWalk offers a party with live performances by national acts, a gourmet buffet, champagne toast and entertainment at the clubs on Dec. 31. Admission TBD.

* New Year’s Eve at Walt Disney World Resort The theme parks bid farewell to 2009 on Dec. 31 with various festive events. Epcot celebrates the New Year around the world with DJs, evening dance parties throughout the World Showcase section of the park and a special presentation of Illuminations: Reflections of Earth lasers and fireworks spectacle. Disney’s Hollywood Studios celebrates with multiple presentations of the Fantasmic! spectacular, special Lights! Camera! Happy New Year! Fireworks and a DJ dance party. The Magic Kingdom offers special presentations of the SpectroMagic light parade and multiple fireworks displays. Events are included in regular park admission.

Rember that there will be very long lines to buy tickets for these events. Allow our staff to save you time and money without waiting in line! Visit us online at http://www.officialticketcenter.com/or call us toll free at 1-877-406-4836.

All New Florida Firearms Adventure

Just when you thought Orlando, Florida could not possibly fit another action packed tourist related event under it’s belt, The Official Ticket Center and Jim Clark of Florida Fire Arms Adventure bring to you a vacation day to remember. Florida Firearms Adventures invites you to experience the fun of firearms in a pleasant environment while under the supervision of highly trained professionals. From the moment your party arrives it’s obvious the only thing that matters to them is your enjoyment and safety. After your firearms familiarization and safety seminar the group will move on to the first live firing session. The firearm for this session is the AR-15 self loading rifle in .223 caliber, the civilian version of the military’s M16. 

Firing the AR-15 Rifle

Under the supervision of their Range Masters you’ll fire on both paper and reactionary targets. To add to the fun they keep an ongoing tally of all the targets you’re hitting. Every participant gets two opportunities to shoot the rifle course for a total of 50 rounds of ammunition. Don’t worry about the ammunition though, along with the use of the rifle it’s included in the entry price. Next you’ll enjoy lunch at the range. A boxed lunch and beverage is also included in the entry price you paid at registration. During lunch you’ll enjoy a shooting demonstration put on by our Range Masters. After lunch your party will move onto the Handgun Range.

Shooting a 9mm. Glock Hand gun

You’ll attend a familiarization and safety seminar on the use of the Glock 9mm pistol. Your handgun experience will begin with your first turn on the firing line and the course of fire has both paper and reactionary targets similar to the ones you shot on the rifle range. The same as on the rifle range each participant will get two attempts to achieve that perfect score; and just like on the rifle range all 30 rounds of ammunition are included. After everyone has had the opportunity to shoot all the courses, the Range Masters calculate the scores and award certificates to both the “Most Improved Shooter” and the “Top Gun”. Everyone takes home their own personal targets with an overall score tally as a memento of their gun-fun experience. So if you ever wanted to be trained by professionals at the art of target shooting, then give us a call and let us get you into the action. Please reserve this event in advance by calling us at 1-877-406-4836 or 1-407-396-9020.

Kennedy Space Center Tickets | The Official Ticket Center

NASA says it’s inviting fifth- through eighth-grade U.S. students to take part in a water limitation management and recycling design competition.

“Participants in the competition will design and test water recycling systems that could be used for future exploration of the moon,” the space agency said in a statement. “The top three teams will receive awards, and the first place team will receive an expense-paid trip to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.”

Teams should consist of up to six students and one teacher or mentor, with proposals and results submitted for evaluation by Feb. 1. Schools in the United States and its territories, science museums, science centers and home school groups may host teams.

Officials said the competition is designed to engage and retain students in the science, technology, engineering and math disciplines critical to NASA’s missions.

“Kennedy Space Center offers a wonderful educational and entertainment experience to students and to people of all ages,” adds Patrick Pulliam of The Official Ticket Center.

The Official Ticket Center always maintains an abundant supply of Kennedy Space Center tickets and anticipates visitor demand well in advance of peak periods.

“The nation’s space program has been in the forefront of worldwide technological innovation and is a source of pride for the United States in terms of our achievements. We are strong advocates of having Central Florida-bound tourists visit this wonderful attraction,” Pulliam says.

Kennedy Space Center tickets are always available through the Official Ticket Center, and they also maintain timely information, including all scheduled launch dates, attractions and tickets to purchase for Kennedy Space Center. The Official Ticket Center is a favorite and one of the most recommended tickets source, including discount tickets for visitors to Kennedy Space Center and Walt Disney World.

Aquatica, Sea World's Waterpark

Aquatica, Sea World’s Waterpark in Orlando, Florida, has been undergoing minor expansions over the past year in preparation for a rumored major expansion to start in 2010. The park has already added a toll booth at the parking lot and a ticket booth at the entrance, as well as a side entrance where team members can perform bag checks and expediate the lines. The first phase of the expansions are being done within space the park already has – adding “Roa’s Island Loungers”, which reserve 2 chairs and an umbrella for an addional cost; adding more cabanas in the existing space; and even adding platforms and slides to existing attractions.

The first concrete evidence of this kind of attraction expansion has been seen on the Whanau Way slides. The attraction, which is scheduled to reopen on October 30th, was closed “due to construction to make way for an exciting new expansion project scheduled to open in Spring 2010″, according to the official Aquatica Web site.  A second platform has been added to the ride, with the assumed purpose to support additional slides. The attraction currently has four slides.

Aquatica has added a second platform to the Whanau Way Slides in preparation for a Spring 2010 attraction expansion.

In addition to the 2010 expansions, Orlando tourists may have even more to look forward to in the coming years!  Apparently, Busch Entertainment Corporation designers and engineers have been brainstorming even more massive  ideas for expansion. The rumored expansion would probably be added to the land located in between the employee parking lot and the new Marriott Hotels which have been built on the corner of International Drive and Central Florida Parkway.  What could they possibly have in store for us?  Probably attractions that don’t require waiting in huge lines and that would alleviate the crowds – maybe an additional wave pool?  Another Roa’s Rapids?  Maybe even a theater with live animal shows that could entertain hundreds of guests at once?  Now, that addition would certainly make Aquatica a truly unique water park.  All of this is speculation of course…

The probable land that will be used for any large-scale expansions at Aquatica.

To stay updated on Aquatica Expansion news, be sure to check Our Blog regularly for Sea World Weekly Scoops.  For more information regarding Sea World tickets, Busch Gardens tickets, and Aquatica tickets, please check our Web site, The Official Ticket Center, or call us toll-free at 1-877-406-4836.