Calling all grown-up theater kids. Orlando Fringe’s Winter Mini-Fest is back this week, running Wednesday, Jan. 7 through Sunday, Jan. 11.
The curated performing arts festival brings artists from around the world to Orlando for 20+ shows — and 100% of ticket sales go directly to the performers. Take a look at the lineup.
I scream, you scream — a New Zealand-style ice cream shop is coming to Maitland. Fragaria, which currently operates as a mobile business, will soon open its first brick-and-mortar on North Orlando Avenue. Stay tuned for updates.
Closed
Sprinkles Cupcakes has closed all of its US stores, including its Disney Springs location and cupcake ATM. Editor’s Pick: If you’re going to miss the iconic red velvet cupcake, try local bakery The Naked Cupcake’s version. (Bungalower)
Parks
Universal Orlando’s Jurassic Park River Adventure ride will close today for renovations, with completion expected in mid-November. See what other attractions will be refurbished this year. (FOX 35)
Biz
Alien Treats FL — a dessert shop selling freeze-dried candy, ice cream, and milkshakes — has permanently closed its Thornton Park storefront. Psst — customers can still order candy online.
Mansion Monday
Mediterranean charm meets modern luxury in a newly renovated home on the 12th fairway of Lake Nona Golf & Country Club. Take a look around the five-bedroom, six-bathroom home, but don’t miss the saltwater pool, sports court, and entertaining space out back.
Travel
We share our planet with remarkable creatures. National Geographic captured many of their extraordinary stories and journeys in its Pictures of the Year 2025. Don’t rely on the lens — make this the year you see the world for yourself, starting at Orlando International Airport.
Try This
Plan an evening at Lakeland’s No. 1 date night spot. The Terrace Grille offers a prime location in the heart of downtown, art-deco ambiance, and elevated New American fare for an unforgettable experience. Make a reservation.*
Job
Manifesting a new job for 2026? Let us help. Our Job Board has 240,000 active listings across industries like healthcare, education, manufacturing, and information technology. Search open jobs now.
Editor’s Pick
On the twelfth day of Christmas... | Photo via Canva
Have you undecked the halls yet? When asked, 67% of our readers said they keep festive decorations up after the holidays. Today, however, marks the twelfth day of Christmas — one of the traditional final days to take your Christmas tree and decorations down. That’s where the “12 Days of Christmas” comes from.
As I work on my newsletter plans for the year ahead, I’d love to hear what you want to see in the newsletter.
Send me an email detailing an event that you’re excited about in 2026, something you want to see more of in 2026, something you want us to keep doing in 2026, or anything else you want to share.
