Orlando Florida, September 7, 2025
News Summary
The Ultimate Tailgate event is set to make its return at ICON Park, featuring an array of performances from local high school marching bands and cheer squads. Scheduled for a family-friendly atmosphere, the event promises live DJ entertainment, exclusive merchandise, and various food and drink options. In addition, guests can enjoy the surrounding attractions and a special cultural experience through the Marrakesh Nights event the night before. With convenient parking options and a vibrant lineup, this tailgate is a perfect outing for families and fans alike.
Orlando — The Ultimate Tailgate returns to ICON Park on Sunday, September 7, 2025, bringing marching bands, cheer squads, music and food to the complex from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The family-friendly event will include live DJ entertainment, exclusive fan merchandise, on-site food and drink options, and performances by participating local school bands and cheer programs.
Event overview and timing
The tailgate will run from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on September 7 at ICON Park. Marching bands and cheerleaders from several area high schools will perform throughout the event. The event format is walk-in, with scheduled performances and entertainment across the park area during those hours.
Entertainment and participants
Performing and participating programs include the Lake Nona High School Cheer Program, Wekiva High School Band and Cheer Program, University High School Cheer Program, Evans High School Band and Cheer Program, and Apopka High School Band and Cheer Program. A live DJ will provide music alongside scheduled marching band appearances, and exclusive merchandise for fans will be available on site.
Additional attractions and cultural experiences
ICON Park will also offer a broader slate of experiences surrounding the tailgate weekend. On Saturday, September 6, 2025, an evening cultural event titled Marrakesh Nights is scheduled from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring Moroccan cultural elements such as traditional music, belly dancing, and a menu inspired by Moroccan flavors and authentic spices. On Sunday, September 7, Tin Roof programming includes two sessions: Shamanic Roots from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and a Happy Hour from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Parking, access and location benefits
ICON Park will offer several parking options during the event. Free parking is available for guests on floors 4 through 7 of the parking garage. Premium parking access is available on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the garage. In addition, free valet parking is available for all guests after 5:00 PM. The property is positioned minutes from I-4, the Florida Turnpike, and The Beachline Expressway, and it sits within walking distance of hotels on International Drive and Universal Boulevard.
Family attractions and amenities
ICON Park is home to more than 50 shops, restaurants, attractions and live entertainment venues. Family-focused features include the Orlando Eye and other experiences aimed at a wide range of ages. Food and drink options will be available during the tailgate, and scheduled performances are intended to be family-friendly.
Other scheduled and upcoming experiences at ICON Park
Additional events and openings tied to ICON Park in 2025 include a summer soccer-themed program and a new indoor mini-golf attraction. A summer event called Casa Flamengo was scheduled to run from June 14–25, 2025, offering free fan experiences associated with Clube de Regatas do Flamengo during the FIFA Club World Cup USA 2025, including live match screenings and cultural features related to Brazilian football. Separately, Ripley’s Crazy Golf is planned to open in winter 2025, presenting a glow-in-the-dark, indoor miniature golf course with themed, visually striking holes and mind-bending challenges.
How the event is organized
The tailgate is arranged within ICON Park’s public event spaces and is intended to use multiple activity zones for performances, merchandising and food service. Scheduled programming before and after the main tailgate hours will occupy nearby venues and restaurants within the ICON Park footprint.
Contact information
For media inquiries or additional information, the listed contacts are:
- Suzanne Smagala-Potts, Senior Manager, Digital Development — 727-439-0136, smagala@ripleys.com
- Will Wellons, ICON Park Media Contact — 407-339-0879, will@wellonscommunications.com
Background and context
ICON Park is an entertainment complex that hosts a range of seasonal and special events intended to draw local residents and visitors. The park emphasizes live entertainment, themed dining, and attractions suitable for families and groups. Regularly scheduled programming and seasonal activations are typical for the site, and this tailgate-style event continues that pattern of combining live performance, food and merchandise in an accessible outdoor venue.
FAQ
When and where is the Ultimate Tailgate?
The Ultimate Tailgate is scheduled for Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at ICON Park in Orlando.
What performances and programs will be featured?
Performances include marching bands and cheer programs from multiple local high schools, a live DJ, and scheduled entertainment zones across ICON Park. Participating schools include Lake Nona, Wekiva, University, Evans and Apopka high schools.
Are there food and drink options on site?
Yes. Food and drink options will be available throughout ICON Park during the event, and a separate cultural dining experience is planned for the Marrakesh Nights event on September 6.
What parking is available?
Free parking is available on parking garage floors 4–7. Premium parking is offered on floors 2 and 3. Free valet parking is provided for guests after 5:00 PM.
Is the event family-friendly?
Yes. ICON Park and the tailgate event are presented with family-friendly programming, including the Orlando Eye and other attractions suitable for children and adults.
How can I get more information or media assistance?
Contact Suzanne Smagala-Potts at 727-439-0136 or smagala@ripleys.com, or Will Wellons at 407-339-0879 or will@wellonscommunications.com for additional details.
Quick features chart
| Feature | Details | When / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Event Date | Ultimate Tailgate at ICON Park | September 7, 2025 — 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM |
| Performances | Marching bands, cheer programs, live DJ | Scheduled across event hours |
| Marrakesh Nights | Moroccan music, belly dancing, themed menu | September 6, 2025 — 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM |
| Parking | Free floors 4–7, premium floors 2–3, valet after 5 PM | On-site garage and valet service |
| Family Attractions | Orlando Eye and 50+ shops & attractions | Open during park hours |
| Upcoming Openings | Ripley’s Crazy Golf (indoor, glow-in-the-dark) | Launching winter 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
FOX 35 Ultimate Tailgate Event Set for This Weekend
Weekend Events at ICON Park and Inter&Co Stadium
Orlando Sees New Dining Hotspots Amid Restaurant Closures
Exploring Orlando’s Vibrant Outdoor Markets and Festivals
Ultimate Tailgate Event to Kick Off at ICON Park
Orlando Hosts a Weekend of Events for Sports and Entertainment
Additional Resources
- Ultimate Tailgate at ICON Park
- Casa Flamengo at ICON Park
- Ripley’s Crazy Golf at ICON Park
- Wikipedia: Orlando
- Google Search: ICON Park Orlando
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
