Legoland, SeaWorld get ready for holidays; IAAPA sets record
Legoland Florida Resort is selling an annual pass for $50 off and room-and-ticket packages starting at $85 per person for discounts that started Black Friday and run through today, the company announced.
As part of the promotion, an annual “Awesomer” pass valued at $149 will be sold for $99 plus tax and includes unlimited admission to other attractions, including the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye. The special is only offered online at www.LEGOLAND.com/ brickfridayweekend and guests can buy up to six per transaction.
The Polk County attraction is also offering a special for $85 per person per day that includes a night’s stay at Legoland Hotel, Legoland Beach Retreat or a partner hotel as well as two-day theme park tickets.
The offer is good for trips Jan. 2 through May 24 although it must be purchased online or by calling 888-690-5346.
The third holiday special is current “Awesomer” and “Awesomest” passholders can save an additional 30 percent off their stays at Legoland Hotel or Legoland Beach Reasort. IAAPA show sets attendance mark
About 39,000 people attended International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions’ trade show devoted to the attractions industry, breaking last year’s record of 34,800, the group recently announced.
"The success of this year’s show is a true testament to the continued growth and strength of attractions around the world,” said Paul Noland, IAAPA president and CEO, in a statement. “We can’t wait to see what’s on the horizon for our dynamic industry — the best is yet to come.”
The event ran Nov. 13-17 at Orange County Convention Center.
During the event, vendors and manufacturers showcased their newest offerings from snacks to technology and some theme-park operators gave updates. SeaWorld, for instance, unveiled the new raft that will later be used on the upcoming Infinity Falls attraction when it opens in 2018. SeaWorld kicks off Christmas
SeaWorld released the details for its holiday events that are scheduled on certain days in December.
The festivities begin at 5 p.m. and are included in regular theme-park admission Dec. 1-3, 8-10, and 15-31, the company said in a release.
The lineup includes a visit from Santa Claus, special dishes available such as waffle-cone S’mores, plus a live nativity with carols, puppets and live animals. The six holiday shows include one that features Sesame Street characters, Shamu Christmas Miracles and an ice-skating performance.
The theme park itself will also get a holiday makeover.
“Over 115 trees sparkle to music as synchronized lights dance across the water including a magnificent centerpiece that towers 70 feet above the lake,” the release said.