For Orlando's first Elite event of 2013 we kicked it off in true Orlando style and celebrated with a Sunday Funday at a Magic Game! This was the quickest elite event to fill up in Orlando in our three years of gathering offline. It was a very HOT ticket.
"This was my first visit to the Amway Center, let alone my first Magic game. I think I can officially declare myself a Magic fan after all of the fun I had at the game." – Kim W.
The Orlando Magic Mission Statement is: To be world champions on and off the court, delivering legendary moments every step of the way. Come experience the '12-'13 Orlando Magic in their home 2012's Sports Facility of the Year: Amway Center and one of the most technologically advanced venues in the world!
The elite yelpers raised over $300 to support the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation (OMYF). This is a fabulous non-profit cause and the Orlando Magic is committed to helping children in Central Florida realize their full potential, especially those most at risk, by supporting programs and partnerships that empower families and change lives.
We began with a personal tour of the entire Amway Center and learned so much about each and every detail that went into crafting this amazing entertainment center. The art is a huge piece of the decor; The collection includes more than 340 works of art, including 14 of the 21 artists housed in the collection represent Central Florida. The Amway Center Art Collection includes over 140 pieces of fine art paintings and mixed media originals, over 200 photographs, and graphic wall treatments highlighting both the Orlando Magic and the spirit of Orlando and Central Florida.
We were spoiled with court-side seats for team warm-up. Not something you normally get to see, the players were shooting around and getting in the correct mindset for the game. Just to step on the floor was a true treat.
"Getting a bountiful buffet prepared by Jernigan's Restaurant run by the Levy group. They must have known Yelper's come armed with an appetite, so, they replenished their offerings several times. Nice. The Braised Short Rib Quesadilla had a spicy kick from the sriracha sauce. Good hot wings, too." – Brandi B.
There was an array of their signature "hotdog" panini with Jack cheese, caramelized onion and ground mustard, Mini "Church Street" Braised Short Rib Quesadilla, Basil-garlic shrimp satay with chili lime mint sauce, Big Blue Tacos, Mini Magic Burgers, Artisan Cheese Board accompanied by assorted house-made chutneys, local honeys, artisan breads and crackers and topped it off with a Chef's selection of gourmet desserts.Did you know you can book a group event or meeting at the Amway Center including an array of delicious food our group had at the game from Levy Restaurants? Check out all of the details here.
After we stuffed our faces and checked out Jernigans, we made our way to our Club Level seating to enjoy the game. It was Stuff's birthday and Sunday Family day so there was tons of excitement throughout the entire game. We may have fallen to the Mavs this day but the effort put forth by our Orlando Magic was memorable.
"Love the gift bags and the hospitality of the Amway Center team. They were very professional and very help." – Randy H.
"One thing that struck me as we made our way around the facility was how friendly and helpful the regular staff members were that we encountered. When we asked questions they were quite willing and able to answer. If I heard it once, I heard it no less than 10 times, to enjoy myself – ushers, vendors, bartenders all. It really added to the experience." – Mimi G.
Want more Orlando Magic excitement? Yelp has a special offer for upcoming games. Save on additional charges and us code: MAGIC. Check out the games here.
Huge shout out to The Bokeh Studio who joined us to catch our journey through photographs. Check them out for your next event you want to remember! Follow them on Facebook and check out all the photos of the event here.
Did you attend and have some notes to share about your experience? Head over the event listing and get typing. For those of you who were unable to make it out, check out what everyone is saying here or find out how to get the invite to these fab parties over at yelp.com/elite.
SYOY,
Colleen B.
