On the first of each year, Central Florida hosts the VRBO Citrus Bowl, a fan-favorite game for New Year enthusiasts and college football fanatics. Now in its 74th year, this holiday tradition is packing even more party into Camping World Stadium than ever before. If you’re looking to touch down into 2020 with your favorite pastime, here are some facts to get you game day ready.
Where the Citrus Bowl Began
Now sponsored by Vacation Rental by Owner (VRBO), the VRBO Citrus Bowl has an extensive history in Orlando. What started in 1947 as the Tangerine Bowl is now one of the oldest annual college football games in the United States. It has become a staple in Central Florida as a New Year’s Day celebration, but it’s also embedded in the city of Orlando as a seriously competitive event.
Having hosted teams from the Big Ten and SEC, the Citrus Bowl is a prized event in the hearts of casual and lifelong college football fans. Last year, the Citrus Bowl witnessed a neck-and-neck championship game where the No. 14 Kentucky Wildcats went head-to-head with the No. 12 Penn State Nittany Lions and emerged victorious by a margin of three points! Although the 2020 lineup hasn’t been declared just yet, the roster is sure to be stacked with two top teams.
What to Do on Game Day
Before you head out to catch the game, plan your plays for the day. You can either park at the stadium or hitch a ride from the Downtown Shuttle Service to beat the local traffic and make the most of your trip. If you want to squeeze the Citrus Bowl to the last drop, arrive early, head next door to Tinker Field, and enjoy the Citrus Bowl FanFest. This pregame tailgate is free to anyone with a game day ticket, and it kicks off right at 9 a.m. The Citrus Bowl FanFest includes a ton of entertaining options for everyone in your group, such as:
- Tasty food and drinks from local vendors
- Pregame activities that are interactive for all ages
- Inflatable fun for the little ones in your group
- Face paint for everyone to support their favorite team
How to Score the Best Stay
To cut down your commute and add time to your game day play, book your stay with the Rosen Midpointe Hotel. A short drive from Camping World Stadium, the Midpointe Hotel is a convenient location with rooms at the most convenient prices. To start planning your visit for the Citrus Bowl showdown, click “Check Room Availability” above or call 407-351-5100.
