This October, Walt Disney World will combine my two favorite past times: running and eating. October 2nd marks the inauguration of Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon. This is the first and only half marathon held by Disney that takes place after hours. Starting at 10pm, runners will make their way from the Wide World of Sports, through Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and finish at Epcot. Not up to 13.1 miles? This is also the first and only race that is offered as a relay event. The first runner will cover 4.8 miles, while the second finishes up the 8.3 remaining. The best part: the after hours party. From the moment you cross the finish line until 3am you will have exclusive access to Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival. Visit the Official Disney Sports website for more information!

If there is one thing you must see while visiting Florida, it’s a real-life alligator! While there are plenty of them in the wild, Gatorland gives guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with the reptiles. Gatorland has just announced a million dollar attraction coming to the park, the Eco Zip Line. For $60, you can cruise along the 56 foot high zip lines over the Cuban Crocodile and Alligator Breeding Marshes. The experience is expected to last 45 minutes and also includes a scenic nature walk through the swamp. No opening dates have been released yet.

This summer SeaWorld is hosting SeaWorld AfterDark. With regular park admission, guests will have the opportunity to stay at the park and access all the attractions, as well as new shows and a fireworks display. The highlights include Shamu Rocks, which debuted last summer, Sea Lions Tonite, a new comedy show, and Reflections fireworks spectacular. Guests will also be able to get up close and personal with SeaWorld’s marine life.

Be sure to check SeaWorld’s website for ticket promotions. Typically for slightly more than the cost of admission you can purchase a dual-park ticket for SeaWorld and Aquatica or Busch Gardens.

Nothing says summer like live music! From June 12-July 31 the American Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase will host the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series! Performers include Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles, Karin Lawson – A Tribute to Janet Jackson, 2U – a Tribue to U2, and more! Each performer has 3 shows daily! Please visit the official website for more information!

Universal Studios offers their own Summer Concert Series. From June 12 – July 17, every Saturday night will have a different live concert! Highlights include Train, Rob Thomas, and the Counting Crows! Please visit the website for more performers and showtimes!

Just a few I-4 exits away from Florida Spirit is the charming town of Celebration. On May 14th, Celebration town center will be transformed into a host of hope and inspiration. The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life will take over Celebration’s Lakeside Park with hundreds of supporters, camping and walking for 18+ hours in the fight against cancer. This year the theme is Broadway, meaning the participants will decorate their campsite in the style of their favorite Broadway shows.
This is a great and inspiring event to participate in, or just visit. Vendors including food stands, facepainters, and homemade crafts will be set up along the park, all the proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. For more information please visit the Relay for Life homepage!