LAST CALL TO ENROLL IN CONNECTDTO 2024!
Make it your New Year's resolution to get more involved with the people, places, and projects in Downtown Orlando! DOP’s ConnectDTO 2024 offers an immersive downtown experience through in-depth educational sessions and tours with a network of engaged urban leaders. CLICK HERE to learn more and enroll today!
SAVE THE DATE
DOP's First Friday Networking Coffee – January 5, 2024 | 8-9am | Hosted by D1 Training Downtwon Orlando
Citrus Social with DOP – January 10, 2024 | 4-7pm | Hosted by the Citrus Club
DOP's Third Thursday Happy Hour – January 18, 2024 | 5-6:30pm | Hosted by Pup's Pub Orlando
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Surprise and Delight Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to the Downtown Arts District on the dedication of the new front gates of the Ford-ify The Arts Courtyard at CityArts! Today, Mayor Buddy Dyer unveiled the courtyard's new project in downtown Orlando, located at 39 S. Magnolia Avenue. Interstruct Design + Build salvaged and repurposed the iron gates from the former Church Street Ballroom, which stand as the first step to the alley's renovation that will bring the courtyard to life with murals, seating, and public programming.
Orlando Main Streets' 15th Anniversary
Fifteen years ago, the Orlando Main Streets program was designed to support Orlando's small business community and preserve the neighborhood commercial districts that have been present in the city for decades. One of the program’s greatest impacts has been the role it has played in furthering the success of small businesses by providing assistance through grants, technical support and marketing strategies. The thousands of small businesses located throughout these 12 districts have played an immeasurable role in fostering a sense of belonging and pride in residents, encouraging them to participate in neighborhood improvement initiatives, cultural festivals, markets and even volunteer their time to serve on committees and boards for the districts. As we recognize the 15th anniversary of the Orlando Main Streets, we encourage you to shop small and spend time in the districts, ensuring the small businesses within them continue to thrive!
OEP Annual Dinner
Join the Orlando Economic Partnership for the 2024 Annual Dinner as they celebrate the transformation, leadership, and vision in Orlando's region. Sponsored by the University of Central Florida, the event will take place on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 from 6-9pm at the UCF Addition Financial Arena. Partner and Executive Chairman of StepStone Private Wealth, Thomas K. Sittema, will be honored with the James B. Greene Award – an award that acknowledges a community leader that contributes to the region's growth, quality of life, and economic well-being. Early bird pricing ends this Friday the 15th, so click here to register today.
CONMEBOL Copa América 2024
Last week, Orlando's Exploria Stadium was announced as one of 14 stadiums in the United States to host the CONMEBOL Copa América from June 20 to July 14, 2024! This competition, which promises to be an unforgettable spectacle for football lovers from around the world, will feature 32 matches to be played by the 16 participating teams (10 from CONMEBOL and 6 from CONCACAF) at 14 emblematic stadiums in the United States. Read the full press release and see the match schedule here!
DTO EVENTS
2024 Holiday Drone Show
The Holiday Drone Show is back for the second year in a row! Showtime is 8pm on Saturday, December 23rd at Lake Eola Park. The show will feature a dazzling display of synchronized drones flying in formation to create beautiful holiday-themed designs in the night sky. Attendees will be able to sit back and watch the light show from the comfort of their own blankets and lawn chairs anywhere in Lake Eola Park. Click here to learn more.
New Year's Chefs Tasting at The Osprey
Celebrate the New Year with the Good Salt Group at their annual five-course New Year's Eve Dinner at The Osprey! This indulgent feast takes place on Sunday, December 31st with times between 5pm to 9:30pm. This year's menu features Alaskan king crab, caviar, wagyu beef, and more! The perfect wine pairing for every course will be offered, as well as their full bar and extensive list of bubbles. See the full menu and make your reservations here.
Lions Set to Take On Flamengo in FC Series!
Orlando City will meet legendary Brazilian club Flamengo in an an FC Series friendly match at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on the afternoon of Saturday, January 27, 2024. The match will be Orlando City’s first friendly in preparation for the 2024 season, and close Flamengo’s weeklong preseason tour in Florida, with the game kickstarting the Lions’ 10th Major League Soccer season at the same venue they called home during their inaugural campaign. Tickets are on sale now!