Good morning, Kissimmee.

National Newspaper Week runs from Oct.

5-11 and honors local reporters whose work defends free speech—it spotlights school board meetings and city council debates that affect our community. The event shows that strong local journalism is vital for keeping residents informed and engaged.

Poinciana is hosting many holiday events starting today at the Library with a job skills series from 10–11 a.m.—on Friday, Oct.

10, Trick or Treat Bingo Night begins at the Community Center at 6 p.m. for adults 18 and over while basketball team tryouts for grades 3–5 start at 6 p.m. and for grades 6–9 at 7 p.m. In addition, a Holiday Market will run Saturday, Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mary Jane Arrington Building, with further events including reading trivia, a teen poetry workshop, a senior health fair on Oct. 24, and the annual festival on Nov. 8 at Valencia College.

The Kissimmee Fire Department responded Tuesday afternoon to a large house fire in Mallard Creek subdivision after flames in a home's garage spread to a vehicle and upper floors—residents self-evacuated while police managed traffic and Osceola County crews assisted, with no injuries reported.

Walt Disney World raised annual pass and renewal prices by between $20 and $80 effective immediately — ticket prices for busy days will increase after October 2026 with one-day passes reaching $209 and parking fees rising to $35.

A Sunday celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month was held at the Kissimmee Lakefront where local businesses and residents gathered—KUA handed out free snow cones and the Osceola Chamber made bracelets as Hispanic dancers and live bands entertained.

Mayor Jackie Espinosa expressed her support for the event that honored local Hispanic culture.

Raymi Dance School founders Silvia Huddleston and Genesis Somoza joined WESH 2 yesterday to share the rich history and importance of honoring Hispanic and Latin culture through music, theater and artistic expressions during Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations in Central Florida.

Florida Fall brings a variety of family-friendly events to the area, including Mick Farms Hometown Harvest on Oct.

11 and Oct. 12, a corn maze at Partin Ranch, and haunted trails at Peghorn Nature Park. Other events include Hastings Ranch festival starting Oct. 11, youth basketball registration opening tomorrow, and a breakfast event on Oct. 14 — all set to boost local autumn spirit — offering choices for every family.

Today, Kissimmee city leaders announced plans to redevelop the former Kmart at 2211 W.

Vine Street—an effort to boost walkability and blend homes, shops, offices, and a sports center. The city will soon begin negotiating a Master Development Agreement to set the schedule for demolition and construction that aims to bring new investments to the Vine corridor.

On Tuesday, the top girls volleyball teams Osceola and Winter Park battled in a five-set state semifinal, with Winter Park clinching the win by a 16-14 margin in the final set—Osceola had match point but the Wildcats pulled ahead in a point-for-point contest.

Both teams traded points throughout the match and now look ahead to meeting in the state final on Nov. 8 if seeding holds.

Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts and Goblins Halloween Event

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Gatorland — Included with admission — Enjoy a fun-filled family Halloween event with interactive experiences and character meet-and-greets.

Generations Retreat 2025

8 PM – 4 PM — 2513 Shanti Dr, Kissimmee, FL — Early bird $300, $100 deposit — Experience a Spirit-filled weekend of deep ministry, vibrant fellowship, and unforgettable fun.

The Bingo Experience: Kissimmee Edition

7-10 p.m. — Sun On the Beach — Early bird tickets available — Embrace the fun with a lively bingo night featuring music, games, and laughter.

Sushi Making Class with Chef Mark

7-9 p.m. — The Roque Pub — Cooking class fees apply — Learn to make authentic sushi in a fun, hands-on environment with expert guidance.

Old Town's Spooktacular Halloween Bash

5-9 p.m. — Old Town — Free entry — Celebrate Halloween with Trunk or Treat and thrilling activities for little ghouls and goblins.

ASL Saturdays at SeaWorld

All day — SeaWorld Orlando — Park admission required — Enjoy ASL interpreted shows and accessible attractions for a memorable experience.

Praise n' Skate

6-9 p.m. — Skate Reflections — $15 at the door — Groove to uplifting Christian music while skating or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Pioneer Day Festival

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek — Free entry — Celebrate local history with arts, crafts, and market vendors at the 33rd Pioneer Day.