Soccer fans from across the US and Canada will gather at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate in Kissimmee, Florida in 2025. Experience Kissimmee announced the hotel as host of the 2025 North American Rangers Supporters Association (NARSA) Convention. It takes place from 12 -15 June 2025. Rangers FC currently lie second in the Scottish Premiership. "Immersing Rangers fans in Kissimmee highlights how sports partnerships bring people together. We are confident that the Omni Orlando will provide the perfect setting for a memorable convention," said Jessica Beers, Executive Director of Kissimmee Sports Commission and Strategic Partnerships. "We hope the attendees' visit to the Big, Bold, Heart of Florida will encourage many other visits from fans." NARSA and Rangers Football Club are making a big push to attract a record number of attendees to the convention. The club's front office, legends and influencers will attend the event. The convention will allow fans to connect with former players, and learn about the club's upcoming plans. "We are thrilled to be working closely with Experience Kissimmee and NARSA," said Karim Virani, Rangers' COO. "Kissimmee is the heart of Florida and supporters will be able to enjoy all the adventure that this location has to offer whilst mingling with fellow fans and club legends." Earlier this year, Experience Kissimmee announced a multi-year partnership with Rangers. This collaboration strengthened the club's links in the United States and increased the recognition of Kissimmee as a top family destination for fans. 

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The National Football League will touch down at London's Battersea Power Station with Experience Kissimmee. The one-day fan event celebrates the NFL 2023 London Games. The 'NFL Experience London' is an immersive American football takeover on Saturday, 7 October, with a host of themed activities. Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, Florida is the official travel destination of the NFL in the UK. In June, Experience Kissimmee and the Jacksonville Jaguars announced a multi-year partnership, naming Experience Kissimmee as the team’s official travel destination sponsor. On 7 October, fans can test their football skills on the Quarterback Challenge,  sponsored by Experience Kissimmee. There are Broad Jump and Vertical Jump contests, Wide Receiver, and Field Goal Kick activities. The Jacksonville Jaguars, Chicago Bears, New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings will also have fan activations and photo ops. Cheerleader and mascot performances from the teams in the 2023 NFL London Games will also take place. 'NFL Experience London' is free to attend, and open to all ages. "The 2023 NFL London Games promise to be an action-packed, thrilling experience for fans," said NFL UK GM, Henry Hodgson. "We are bringing the very best of the NFL to the iconic Battersea Power Station to celebrate. We're looking forward to welcoming fans and those new to the sport." A NFL flag football mini field will give fans the chance to experience a non-contact format of the game. NFL merchandise and vintage NFL memorabilia from all 32 NFL teams will be available to buy. A Madden NFL 24 gaming station will be available for fans to play. NFL legends and pundits will join the NFL Experience London event, along with NFL DJ's. All visitors have the chance to win various NFL prizes. London hosts three games starting at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 1 October for Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Atlanta Falcons. It will then shift to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for Buffalo Bills vs. Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, 8 October and then host Tennessee Titans vs. the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, 15 October.

Experience Kissimmee has introduced ‘The Kissimmee Experience’ a 10-part video series highlighting the area’s attractions. It launches in two parts on 18 July and then 14 August 2023. Videos take viewers on a journey through Kissimmee's attractions, presented by a local host alongside various celebrities and personalities. Hosted by Jen Bonner, ‘The Kissimmee Experience’ features a diverse lineup lineup including award-winning photographers, actors, a retired pro soccer player, stunt performers, and even ventriloquists. They uncover the area’s hidden sights and experiences. They showcase outstanding outdoor adventures and cultural encounters,. It includes accessible attractions and family-friendly activities, with an insider's view through engaging storytelling. "We invite viewers to join us on this incredible journey," said Nathanael Saldaña, Director of Brand & Content Studio. "Through this series, we aim to highlight the magic and variety of Kissimmee, while also providing entertaining and engaging content for travel enthusiasts." The series covers the following: Jeff Musial: Animal Adventures in Kissimmee - From monster truck rides through classic Central Florida attractions to an immersive drive-through safari. Kyla Kenedy: Top Luxury Experiences Around Kissimmee - Kyla Kenedy takes viewers on a journey of indulgence, exploring the luxurious experiences that Kissimmee and Central Florida offer, from shopping to dining and relaxing in a luxury vacation home. Lolo Spencer: An Accessible Journey Through Kissimmee - Lolo Spencer shares her story as she explores the accessible side of Kissimmee, proving that the destination has something for everyone. Luke Boden: A Tour of Kissimmee Sports Venues - Soccer coach Luke Boden takes viewers on a tour of Kissimmee's sports venues, highlighting the wide array of spectator sports and participation opportunities. Audra Miller: Performance Venues Around Kissimmee - Musician Audra Miller delves into the vibrant performance scene of Kissimmee, highlighting theater, outdoor stages at popular entertainment districts and regional venues. Carla Rhodes: Conservation, Photography, and Birding in Kissimmee - Conservation photographer Carla Rhodes captures the wild side of Florida, from observing birds in their natural habitat to exploring the Everglades on an airboat ride. Anisa Benitez: Reconnect with Yourself in Kissimmee - Anisa Benitez guides viewers on a journey of wellness, meditation, and self-connection in and around Kissimmee. Ming Chen: Pop Culture in Kissimmee - Ming Chen uncovers the vibrant pop culture scene in Kissimmee, featuring specialty stores, themed restaurants, and all-inclusive entertainment venues. Caitlin Dechelle: Adrenaline and Thrills in Kissimmee - Stunt actor Caitlin Dechelle goes on a heart-pumping adventure, exploring the adrenaline-inducing side of Kissimmee through theme park rides, extreme skills challenges, and zip lining. Ami Vitale: Inspiration, Adventure, and Photography in Kissimmee - National Geographic photographer Ami Vitale concludes the series by sharing her experiences capturing the essence of Kissimmee through breathtaking photography. Tune in at thekissimmeeexperience.com

 

Sponsorship kicks off in late June with UK summer tour and youth football programs in London, Liverpool and Belfast

  Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, Florida and the Jacksonville Jaguars announced a multi-year partnership, naming Experience Kissimmee as the official Travel Destination of the team.   The sponsorship will kick off in late June, with Experience Kissimmee as the Presenting Partner of Jaguars Summer Player Tour in the United Kingdom. The tour will feature three Jaguar players engaging in fan events and community youth football programs in London, Liverpool and Belfast. Digital content from the tour will be branded with the Kissimmee destination. In addition to the UK tour, Experience Kissimmee will have visibility at TIAA Bank Field this season with onsite signage and marketing collateral and will create custom branded Jaguars content for the destination.   Coming off a remarkable 2022 winning season and securing the AFC South division championship, the Jaguars are on the hunt for another show-stopping year. The Jaguars have already made headlines this season by making NFL history as the first team to play back-to-back games in London, the number one international market for travel to Kissimmee.   Experience Kissimmee, trademarked as the Vacation Home Capital of the World^®, offers an array of fun and excitement for all ages, from outdoor activities to world-class theme parks. The partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars will offer Experience Kissimmee marketing and advertising rights within TIAA Bank Field, as well as online digital assets, creative in-market content, and community event inclusion that showcases Kissimmee as a family-oriented destination.   “We are eagerly anticipating the success that this partnership brings to Experience Kissimmee. Jacksonville holds an important drive and overnight market for us, and we are excited to increase our presence in the North Florida territory,” said DT Minich, President/CEO of Experience Kissimmee. “Not only will this collaboration boost domestic awareness, but it will also enhance our visibility among visitors from the UK during the London Games.”   “We’re thrilled to welcome Experience Kissimmee to our family of Jaguars partners,” said Scott Massey, senior vice president of corporate partnerships. “Our neighbours to the south share our same interest in connecting with residents in the UK and we hope our upcoming opportunities to collaborate will generate unique content our fans will enjoy.”   Furthermore, Experience Kissimmee is also the Presenting Partner of the Jaguars Girls Flag Football Pre-Season Classic that brings more than 650 female athletes to TIAA Bank Field. The 2023 edition saw the largest participation to date and included the franchise’s inaugural Girls Flag Media Day.   “Experience Kissimmee takes pride in supporting the growth and development of female athletes and celebrates the increased visibility of their game,” said Jessica Beers, Executive Director of Kissimmee Sports Commission. “Here in Kissimmee, we work with many flag football events rights holders that include female athletes. Our active involvement in the game’s development is important as we strive to highlight the beautiful sports venues that exist in Kissimmee.”

  Vacation Home Capital of the World®   Regularly listed as one of Airbnb's top destinations for travel in the U.S., Kissimmee has the largest collection of vacation homes rentals in the world, with more than 50,000 options.

  A new year means more exciting adventures are coming to Kissimmee and Central Florida. Kissimmee is ready to welcome returning and first-time visitors to the destination in 2023. From exhilarating expansions to new delicious restaurants to try, here’s what visitors can expect in Kissimmee next year.   Orlando International Airport (MCO) opens new Terminal C to the most visited destination in the country    Terminal C, MCO’s newest international terminal, encompasses 300 acres and adds 15 gates capable of accommodating up to 20 aircraft and includes informational video displays in the ticket halls, concession hub and gate areas plus interactive, immersive multimedia features that will provide high-definition visual entertainment. Designed for certification as one of the first LEED v4 airport campuses, Terminal C reflects Orlando International Airport’s (MCO) longstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.   NeoCity Now Growing as High-Tech Hub in Osceola County    NeoCity is poised to become the most significant and comprehensive global center for smart sensor, photonics, and nano-technology research and development. The 482.5 acres of site area will become the center point for technology development in the state of Florida. NeoCity will catalyze job creation and talent development in Osceola County that will have regional, national, and international implications. Lead flagship companies include BRIDG, a not-for-profit, public-private partnership specializing in digital, RF, and photonics silicon interposer technology development coupled with advanced packaging capabilities, and imec, the leading research hub for advanced CMOS scaling.   Attractions    Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to dance and get loud with new street show “¡Vamos! – Báilalo”   Guests can now enjoy a brand-new street show at Universal Studios Florida. A high-energy Latin dance experience with a classic look and modern musical flair, “¡Vamos! – Báilalo” transforms the New York area of the theme park into a vibrant atmosphere filled with Latin flavor as a dozen dancers take to the streets for an energetic 12-minute performance – inviting guests to let loose, get loud and dance along to the irresistible beats of the music.   Flurries of Frozen Fun Await Guests at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park Reopening    It’s a ski-riffic time Walt Disney World Resort’s Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park where new Frozen features will be part of the kid-sized thrills of Tike’s Peak. Young guests will delight in the statuettes of Olaf and his Snowgie pals in the warm wading pool, as well as Anna and Elsa’s igloo castle.   Legoland^® Florida Pirate River Quest to Open 12 January   On this all-new attraction, captain-driven boats navigate the natural passageways of Lake Eloise and the historic Cypress Gardens. The quest to uncover the lost treasure of Captain Redbeard of this family-friendly boat ride unfolds brick by brick with a variety of exciting sequences that tell the tale of a rowdy LEGO® pirate crew, a troop of mischievous monkeys and even a fearsome kraken.   Crayola to Double its Family Attraction Venues Over Next Five Years    The creativity icon announced a new licensing agreement with BrightColors, LLC. Working with its partner, Kingsmen Xperience, Inc., BrightColors will open a minimum of five new Crayola Experience venues over the next five years, doubling the attraction brand’s presence in the U.S.   Orlando’s Beer Spa, the first beer spa on the East Coast, is NOW OPEN!    The only traditional European Beer Spa in the entire U.S. is open for business! For those unfamiliar with the concept, it is a fun, unconventional spa, centered around beer. They offer private rooms with soaking thermal tubs featuring their signature Beer Soaking Treatment; a foamy, moisturising hop infusion made with beer ingredients. Most importantly, the rooms also include a self-serve beer tower with complimentary LOCAL beers from Central Florida.   Food and Beverage Offerings    Dezerland Action Park Orlando introduces new food hall concept    The expansive food hall at Dezerland Action Park is bringing in a full menu of new concepts to delight visitors. At Pizza Pie, each pizza is created fresh with the guest’s choice of toppings. Amigo Burrito draws in adventurous eaters with the option to create their own burrito or bowl and enjoy Latin favorites like yucca fries, empanadas and churros. Guests can stop by French Café for fresh baguette sandwiches, hand-crafted coffee drinks and delicate pastries.   Discovery Cove® Expands All-Inclusive Dining Options with New Hibiscus Hideaway and Blue Bamboo Bar    Discovery Cove® will be expanding its all-inclusive dining options with the addition of the Blue Bamboo Bar and Hibiscus Hideaway, two new food and beverage venues now open at the one-of-a-kind day resort in Orlando. In addition to buffet-style breakfast and gourmet lunch at the resort’s Laguna Grill, and endless snacks and drinks throughout the park, guests can now stop by the Blue Bamboo Bar and Hibiscus Hideaway to feed the fun with flatbread pizza, as well as multiple tasty snack and dessert options – all included with each admission.   Portillo’s is coming to Kissimmee    Portillo’s is bun-believably excited to expand in the Orlando area later this year with a new restaurant opening in Kissimmee. Located on US 192, the garage-theme restaurant is just a short drive from Walt Disney World Resort.   Celebration Brewery opening Winter 2022    Celebration Brewing is a family-owned brewery, taproom, and brewpub located in beautiful Celebration, Florida. They focus on using only the best ingredients and delivering the utmost quality to their customers. They’re driven by their core values: delivering quality flavors, honouring their customers and celebrating the culture of beer.   Donut Experiment opening soon!    The Donut Experiment is a family-owned local donut shop that specializes in fresh made to order donuts as well as some other great compliments such as fresh coffee, espresso, and ice cream. Watch the process as they make donuts fresh. Choose to add an icing of choice, fresh toppings, or even a drizzle of sauce.   Cowboy Chicken firing up soon at Promenade at Sunset Walk!    Cowboy Chicken, the fast-casual brand known for its wood-fired rotisserie chicken and handmade side dishes, debuts in the Sunshine State with the first location at Promenade at Sunset Walk. Their menu features bold, simple, and natural food including all-natural chicken cooked over an open flame and a variety of homestyle sides. Since 1981, Cowboy Chicken has excelled in serving fresh ingredients while treating guests like family and employees like partners. The welcoming, authentic experience, with food as honest as a handshake, has kept guests coming back for more.   It’s Almost Time to Get the Party Started at Fat Tuesday at Old Town Kissimmee!    Fat Tuesday traces back to Bourbon Street, New Orleans in 1984 —an all-time party street in one of the world-famous towns synonymous with good times, and it is coming to Old Town Kissimmee. Their recipe has remained the same over the years: serving up the best drinks and starting the best party in town.   About Experience Kissimmee:    Experience Kissimmee is the official tourism authority for Osceola County, Florida. Located 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO), Kissimmee offers a perfectly balanced vacation experience with world-famous theme parks and attractions, outdoor activities, and plenty of Florida sunshine. Kissimmee is the Vacation Home Capital of the World®, with options ranging from two-bedroom condos to 15-bedroom mansions.   For more information on Experience Kissimmee, visit experiencekissimmee.com.

  Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, Florida,  and the National Football League UK today announced a partnership that names Experience Kissimmee as the official Travel Destination of the NFL in the UK. The venture, the first of its kind, aspires to promote brand awareness and shine the spotlight on this popular Central Florida destination.   The sponsorship will kick off with the NFL London Games, featuring: Minnesota Vikings vs. New  Orleans Saints (2 October), New York Giants vs. Green Bay Packers (9 October) and Denver Broncos vs.  Jacksonville Jaguars (30 October). In 2021, the NFL London Games produced a global viewership of more  than seven million, with 122,000 attending two sold-out games at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.   Kissimmee, trademarked as the Vacation Home Capital of the World, houses fun and excitement for all  ages through outdoor activities to world-class theme parks. The deal with the NFL in the UK will offer  Experience Kissimmee marketing opportunities inside both Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley  Stadium, as well as online digital assets, to showcase Kissimmee as a family-oriented destination,  whether it be enjoying the attractions, dining at unique local restaurants or taking part in the American  tradition of watching a game from the comfort of a vacation home.   “We are truly excited to partner with the NFL on their London Series,” said DT Minich, President/CEO  of Experience Kissimmee. “The United Kingdom has been and continues to be our largest international  market with more than 800,000 visitors to our destination in 2019. This opportunity will further our  reach with our great visitors from the UK but will also enable us to connect with key markets across  the United States.”   In addition to the NFL London Games, Experience Kissimmee is proud to also support the NFL UK Flag Football program, a non-contact version of American Football that has been gaining popularity in the UK  over the past five years. The NFL UK’s flag program champions inclusivity, diversity and teaching of  strong values through wellbeing and character development for school children from the age of 10.   Henry Hodgson, Managing Director of NFL UK, said: “We are very pleased to be partnering with  Experience Kissimmee. Together we can create some exciting opportunities to connect with new  audiences and to expand the sport.”   “It is a great honor to work with the NFL not only with the London Games, but also beyond,” said John  Poole, Executive Director of Kissimmee Sports Commission. “We believe this is a great opportunity to  receive year-round exposure to a core target audience in the UK. The program is now in more than  380 schools across 20-plus UK regions, and this will allow us to connect with multiple markets across  the UK.”   This is the second major sports sponsorship that Experience Kissimmee has had in the UK. They previously sponsored West Ham United from 2016-2022.

Experience Kissimmee announced it is cancelling its sponsorship of West Ham United Football Club. "Due to recent events, Experience Kissimmee has made the decision to part ways with West Ham United Football Club and end our sponsorship of the team," said DT Minich, Experience Kissimmee President/CEO. It follows a major backlash against player Kurt Zouma who was filmed kicking his pet cat. "As an organisation and community, we welcome visitors and locals alike to join us in celebrating wildlife and nature, now and always. We are proud to work with partners who are accredited, certified and regulated to the highest standards of animal care," Minich added.

With travel between the UK and Unites States set  to restart this November, Experience Kissimmee is excited to welcome back visitors to experience the destination again. Known as Vacation Home Capital of the World, Kissimmee is located just minutes away from world-famous theme parks and attractions. The destination is also situated on the headwaters of the Everglades, home to extraordinary natural wonders. With more than 50,000 private access holiday homes of the destination's 70,000 accommodations, Kissimmee is perfect place for upcoming holidays, as travellers to the US look to enjoy their own home-away-from-home. These holiday homes range from cosy two-bedroom villas to 15-bedroom mega mansions with backyard pools and in-home game rooms, cinema rooms, bowling alleys, and more. Many vacation home resorts offer butlers, personal chefs, and resort-style amenities such as dining, spas, and championship golf courses. Launch of the Safety Hub in partnership with AdventHealth: Though holidays require more planning and preparation than ever before, safety continues to be a priority in Kissimmee. In 2020, Experience Kissimmee partnered with major Florida health care system AdventHealth to provide a Safety Hub for all visitors. This new planning tool allows planned visitors and vacation dreamers to explore resources and up-to-date safety information before visiting the destination or planning their holiday. DT Minich, President & CEO Experience Kissimmee, said: "We are thrilled to be able to welcome UK travellers back to our destination. We know a lot of families will want to make up for lost time and they can do that in Kissimmee. Visitors can escape crowds by kayaking, sightseeing from a hot air balloon, or playing golf on championship courses.." Take me to Kissimmee in 2022  Ocean Florida is offering a special seven-night package to Kissimmee staying in an Executive Villa with a private pool from £669 per person. Price includes seven nights' accommodation, return flights with British Airways from Gatwick, free The Wheel tickets, free seven-day I-Ride Trolley Pass, free Comedy Dinner Show tickets, a free $20 shopping voucher and an included welcome grocery park. Offer available on select departure dates in 2022.

  TravelMole talks to D T Minich of Experience Kissimmee, following news the US will reopen its borders to foreign vaccinated travellers. UK visitors make up its largest contingent of international visitors.