UPCOMING DOP EVENTS
DOWNTOWN BUZZ
Sampaguita Grand Opening
In recognition of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month, Sampaguita Ice Cream's Grand Opening is in full-force this week! Join the celebration of the AAPI community's rich cultural heritage by embarking on a delightful journey through flavors inspired by the Filipino - American experience. The official Grand Opening will take place on Saturday, May 13th at 11am, but there are specials to celebrate all week! The Grand Opening will have free giveaways, free swirls, and more. Learn more here and don't forget to wear your Sampaguita shirt!
2023 Collaborative Campaign for the Arts Raises Over $6 Million
United Arts of Central Florida successfully concluded the 2023 Collaborative Campaign for the Arts, raising over $6 million for local arts, science, and history organizations. With an aggressive goal of $6 million, this is the fourteenth consecutive year the Collaborative Campaign has exceeded its fundraising goal but that’s not the only way United Arts is measuring the success of the campaign. This annual campaign raises awareness for the local arts and cultural community by uniting arts, science and history organizations to collectively raise funds from February 1 to April 30. Every dollar raised stays right here in Central Florida and provides annual operating support and program funds to help fuel creativity and innovation and strengthen the local economy. Click here to learn more.
Free Parking Downtown!
Beginning May 15, you can enjoy FREE parking at on-street metered and non-metered spaces, via the ParkMobile app, and complimentary valet at participating restaurants, while dining and shopping downtown thanks to the ParkDTO Program. Get up to 2 hours of free parking at any metered and non-metered parking spot in downtown by using the ParkMobile code: ParkDTO. To spread the free parking love, you can use the code a maximum of four (4) times per account. Download the ParkMobile app now to be ahead of the parking game. Learn more about how to park for free here!
Be a Mindleader by AdventHealth
AdventHealth for Children and Heart of Florida United Way are teaming up to start a movement that gets children, parents, and all Central Floridians talkig about mental health and empowers them to "Be a Mindleader". The goal of the “Be a Mindleader” campaign is to get curated, expert information into the hands of kids, parents, caregivers, coaches, mentors and teachers and help facilitate life-changing conversations about mental health between children, teens and the adults in their lives. Half of all mental health illnesses begin by age 14, yet only one out of three parents regularly discuss mental health with their children, according to AdventHealth research. And for those who suffer, it can take up to 11 years to get a diagnosis and seek treatment. Talking about mental health is one of the best ways to reduce the stigma, create hope and lead people to seek care, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Read more here.
DTO EVENTS & NEWS
State of the City
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer invites the community to his 2023 State of the City Address on Wednesday, May 24 at Harriet's Orlando Ballet Centre from 10:30-11:30am. Mayor Dyer’s annual State of the City Address is a time to reflect on the city’s recent accomplishments and to look ahead to what’s next for Orlando. At the event, Mayor Dyer will highlight community partnerships, economic development initiatives and strategies to keep the city moving forward. He’ll also outline key strategies to continue addressing community challenges. Please RSVP here by May 19 if you plan to attend the speech in person. RSVPs are not required, but are highly encouraged. They also do not guarantee a seat.
Luminary Light Show
The City of Orlando announces the launch of Luminary Nights on the Green this week on the north end of Luminary Green Park (437 N Terry Ave). Experience a 20-minute projection, lighting, and music show that celebrates all the unique elements that make Orlando one of a kind! The Luminary Light Show will run from dusk until 10 pm every evening. Plus, check out the one-minute intro in partnership with Visit Orlando and the Orlando Economic Partnership, entitled Awakening. On-street non-metered parking is free after 6pm Monday - Saturday and free on Sundays.
Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival
The Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival will run in-person from May 16th - 29th at Loch Haven Park, north of downtown. Hundreds of performers will take stages around Orlando in more than 130 short plays, musicals, comedy acts, dance performances, magic shows, concerts and other events. You can find all the details including a schedule, descriptions of shows and directions to venues here.
DOPERKS
25% Off to Opera Orlando for DOP Members!
Opera Orlando is now offering DOP Members 25% off on their unique show, Baseball: a Musical Love Letter! Catch the performance on May 19th at 7:30pm or May 21st at 2pm at Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre. Click here to get your tickets and use the code "chamber".