If your childhood memories are filled with slime and double dares, you likely grew up tuning into Nickelodeon. The cable channel helped redefine children’s television, and much of that was done right here in Orlando. From 1990 to 2005, this revolution was televised — live in front of a studio audience — at its local hub, Nickelodeon Studios.
Why Orlando?
The concept for Nickelodeon Studios dates back to 1988, during the development of Universal Studios Florida. The movie-themed attraction felt it was important to have a working studio in the park — especially because its competitor, Disney, had one.
Can you spot the slime geyser in the background? | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Universal wanted a partnership with Nickelodeon so badly that the initial studio deal didn’t require the network to pay rent. This helped convince the children’s network, and Nickelodeon Studios began development.
On June 7, 1990, Nickelodeon Studios opened to the public along with Universal Studios. Fans could follow along with a three-hour special on the channel that ended with the eruption of the Slime Geyser, when the network’s signature green goo would flow.
A. I love knowing what’s going on at all of our local parks. B. I like some park news, but there’s some that I skip over. C. Yawn. Orlando has so much more to offer than our theme parks. D. I’m indifferent — I don’t mind seeing the news, but it doesn’t excite me.
Luminary Market and Movie Night | 5:30-9 p.m. | Luminary Green Park | Free+ | Shop from up to 25 local vendors to support the Creative Village + stick around for the outdoor film screening.
Thursday, July 3
MetroWest MusicWORKS | 6-10 p.m. | MetroWest Golf Club | Free | No ticket is required for this Independence Day event featuring live music, fireworks, food trucks, rides, vendors, and alcoholic beverages for sale.
Orlando Night Ride | 7-10 p.m. | Retro City Cycles | $50+ | Explore local bars, music, and nightlife via bike with a guide and a group.
Thursday Night Hang with Cortez and Friends | 8-10 p.m. | Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, Winter Park | Free | After the band’s set, you can join them on stage for a jazz jam session and show off your musical chops.
Friday, July 4
Fireworks at the Fountain | 4-10 p.m. | Lake Eola Park, Orlando | Free | Enjoy live music, food, and fun before the fireworks go off to celebrate the holiday.
Plan Ahead
The 4th Annual Vaudeville Variety Show Spectacular | 7:30 p.m. | Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts | $35+ | Experience the world-class talents of Hungarian jazz clarinetist Joe Fritz, barbershop quartets, singers, and Orlando’s Premier Chamber Pops Orchestra and Big Band.
Two to five cents. That’s how much the Central Florida Expressway Authority raised the price of tolls, starting yesterday. The good news? The authority also reinstated its E-Pass volume savings program. (Orlando Business Journal)
Open
Shaka Donuts is back and better than ever at its new Hourglass District location. The new shop is now serving up donuts, breakfast sandwiches, ice cream, shaved ice, and root beer on tap. (Bungalower)
Opening
Miniso — a Chinese retailer that sells products for $10 or less, such as small collectibles — will open its third Central Florida location this Saturday, July 5. The first 50 customers at the West Town Corners shop will get 20% off purchases, and 10% off discounts will be in place for shoppers all weekend long. (Orlando Business Journal)
Closed
City Food Hall restaurant Chez Les Copains has closed. While no reason for the closure was provided, Chef Michael Collantes said that they “will be seeking a new space” for the brasserie. (Orlando Weekly)
Community
This month, the City of Orlando is partnering with Keep Orlando Beautiful for Plastic Free July. Locals can participate at upcoming events like “Bring Your Own Cup Boba” on Thursday, July 10 + a clothing swap on Tuesday, July 15.
Weather
Do you like your hot dogs soggy? It’s shaping up to be a wet Independence Day weekend. WESH’s First Warning Weather team is calling for impact weather in Central Florida Friday, July 4-Sunday, July 6. (WESH)
Post of the Day
Don’t forget: We’re just over a week away from the last day of Bite30, Orlando’s version of Restaurant Week.
Wave Asian Bistro’s Maitland and Mount Dora locations are participating with $38 prix fixe menus featuring items like Krab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks + sushi “pizza.” Yes, please.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
I’ll take any excuse to ditch the car and ride public transit. If you will too, here’s a good one: The SunRail will offer free rides to downtown events on the Fourth, including the FIFA World Cup match + Fireworks at the Fountain.
