There are many things to do in the Orlando area, and most people think of theme parks and other big attractions. However, there are many Orlando sports events, and the Major League Soccer team, the Lions, is a big draw for residents and visitors.
For soccer enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a great time, the 2020 schedule is out. It is time to plan date nights, tailgating details and road trips.
Home Opener and Kickoff Events
Be grateful that February has an extra day this year, as the Orlando City Lion’s home opener is Saturday, February 29th, at 6:00 PM. The team will be playing against Real Salt Lake at the Exploria Stadium. To prepare for the season, partake in a number of Orlando events going on.
The City Art Jam will be held Friday, February 7th at 6 PM. Held at the Ace Café, this free event is an annual kickoff to the soccer season. Orlando artists will paint original artwork that will be up for grabs during a silent auction. Fans will be able to purchase the team’s new jersey at this event and, in doing so, they will be eligible for a BOGO promotion for the Lion’s home opener. Other fun events include:
- Orlando City Pub Crawl: Saturday, February 15th at 6 PM in Downtown Orlando
- Purple Pride 5K: Saturday, February 22nd at 8 AM at Exploria Stadium
- Soccer Ball: Saturday, February 22nd at 6 PM at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
There are also some preseason games to attend during February.
Season Schedule
The 2020 schedule features 17 home games against Real Salt Lake, Chicago Fire FC, Montreal Impact, FC Cincinnati, Atlanta United, Houston Dynamo, Minnesota United Columbus Crew, Portland Timbers, New York Red Bulls, Toronto, Inter Miami CF, Philadelphia Union, D.C. United, Nashville SC, New York City and New England Revolution.
For those looking for an excuse to get away, the Lions will play 17 away games against the Colorado Rapids, LA Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, Columbus Crew, Montreal Impact, D.C. United, Sporting Kansas City, New England Revolution, Chicago Fire FC, New York City FC, FC Dallas, FC Cincinnati, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Inter Miami CF, Atlanta United FC, Philadelphia Union and Toronto FC.
The last regular-season game is at home on Sunday, October 4th, at 4:30 PM. Get the detailed schedule and tickets here.
Post-Game Entertainment and Fun
Whether it is an afternoon or evening game, the perfect place to stop after cheering on the Orlando City Lions is at Mango’s Tropical Café. An Orlando staple, Mango’s is a must-stop for anyone looking for a great time.
After an afternoon soccer game, stop by for the popular dinner and show. For late-night fun, bring your friends to enjoy the area’s hottest nightclub. A great place to dance and listen to the best DJs, Mango’s is a top destination any night of the week. Enjoy the Outdoor Café Hookah Lounge or check out the Vodou Room on weekends for a Vegas-style lounge.
If you did not make it for the evening show, and you are looking for something to snack on, Mango’s has a late-night and bar menu to satisfy any appetite. Order bottle service, champagne or a specialty cocktail to keep the energy flowing.
Reserve Your Spot at Mango’s Tropical Café
The Orlando City Soccer Club season is starting. Stop by Mango’s Tropical Café after a game to celebrate a win or soothe a loss. Chill out in the outdoor café or party it up on the dance floor. If stopping by for dinner, or planning a corporate event, contact Mango’s to make a reservation.
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Oleksii Sidorov
