DOP'S 2025 STATE OF DOWNTOWN
On Tuesday, December 2, the Downtown Orlando Partnership hosted Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s annual State of Downtown, presented by OUC – The Reliable One. The program included remarks from Mayor Dyer and a panel conversation spotlighting the people and projects shaping what’s next for our city. Moderator Sheena Fowler (Innovate Orlando) was joined by panelists Craig Ustler (Ustler Development, Inc.), Jason Chin (Good Salt Restaurant Group), Jennifer Evins (United Arts of Central Florida), Richard Perez (Midtown Development), and Mayor Buddy Dyer. The conversation covered placemaking, development, arts & culture, hospitality and economic growth downtown, alongside key updates such as the planned multi-billion-dollar redevelopment of the former Sentinel site, new safety and nightlife-code reforms, expanded affordable housing efforts, and continued investment in tech and innovation jobs.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s State of Downtown a success! Rewatch the 2025 State of Downtown or view the Digital Program using the buttons below.
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Help Shape Orlando’s Economic Insights
How is your business feeling about 2026? The Orlando Economic Partnership’s Q4 2025 Orlando MSA Business Conditions Survey, powered by OUC — The Reliable One, gives you a direct voice in shaping regional strategies that support business success. Share your business expectations by taking the survey today!
Registration Now Open for ConnectDTO 2026
ConnectDTO is the Downtown Orlando Partnership’s immersive leadership program, bringing emerging and established professionals together to explore the people, projects, and industries shaping downtown. Through behind-the-scenes tours, educational sessions, and conversations with city leaders, participants gain strategic insights into commerce, culture, and community development. Class size is limited. Apply today!
Holiday Celebrations in Downtown Orlando
Kick off the holidays in downtown Orlando with two major celebrations supported and presented by AdventHealth. The Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center opens December 4, brightening Seneff Arts Plaza with nightly tree lightings, live performances, festive treats, and fun for all ages. Then on Friday, Lake Eola Park comes alive at the City of Orlando's Tree Lighting Celebration, featuring a six-story Christmas tree, holiday entertainment, food trucks, and the Merry Market with 30+ local vendors. Plan your visits to the Frontyard Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Celebration today!
Experience the Magic of Dazzling Nights
Dazzling Nights is back at Leu Gardens, lighting up the season with all-new experiences through January 4! Explore a 50-foot star in the Rose Garden, a sparkling Holiday Village, interactive snowball fights with elves, towering Yetis in the Crystal Kingdom, and an 80-foot “Cathedral” of stained-glass light. With live entertainment, festive treats, and magic around every corner, this holiday tradition is bigger and brighter than ever. Learn more here!
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