Melissa Donovan
Creative City Project is bringing back Central Florida’s premier arts event, IMMERSE, for its highly anticipated 10th iteration. From February 21-23, 2025, Downtown Orlando will once again transform into a vibrant, multi-sensory artistic playground, captivating audiences with immersive art installations, awe-inspiring performances, and unforgettable creative encounters. Presented by AdventHealth, this three-day extravaganza will take over 10 city blocks, featuring hundreds of artists and dynamic live performances.
A Celebration of the Arts Like No Other
IMMERSE is a true fusion of artistry, innovation, and community spirit. Festival-goers will experience everything from gravity-defying aerialists to massive interactive installations and stunning projections illuminating city streets. Past editions have seen acrobats soaring from cranes, orchestras encircling the audience, and operatic serenades from balconies—and 2025 promises even more jaw-dropping moments.
“IMMERSE is the heart of what Creative City Project is all about,” Cole NeSmith, Founder and Artistic Director of Creative City Project said. “Elevating artists to create one-of-a-kind experiences audiences can’t find anywhere else in the world.”
This year, the festival brings together over 100 artists and arts organizations, with major lineup announcements coming in January. From emerging local talents to renowned global acts, IMMERSE fosters a thriving arts community while giving audiences unprecedented access to world-class performances.
A Star-Studded Lineup
For its 10th year, IMMERSE is pulling out all the stops, welcoming some of the biggest names in performance art:
- Cirque du Soleil – World-class acrobats bringing their signature magic to the streets of Orlando.
- Blue Man Group – Making a grand return to Orlando, offering an interactive, high-energy performance unlike anything seen before.
- Michael James Scott – The Broadway star, famous for his role as the Genie in Aladdin, will headline a spectacular collaboration with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra.
Joining them will be performances from Opera Orlando, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Aerial Arts, Renaissance Theatre Company, Phantasmagoria, MOTIV Dance, and many more.
“By bringing together creativity, innovation, and collaboration, events like IMMERSE strengthen our sense of identity, boost our economy, and showcase Orange County as a global leader in cultural excellence,” Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings said. “We are proud to support initiatives like IMMERSE that highlight the vibrant spirit of our community.”
A New Season, A New Experience
One of the biggest changes for 2025 is IMMERSE’s move from October to February—a decision made to enhance the experience for both performers and attendees.
“Weather in February is wonderful, and it will still be getting darker earlier in the evening,” Melyssa Rae Marshall, Executive Director of Creative City Project and IMMERSE Producer said. “Since we transform a large part of downtown into a theatrical space, this allows us to elevate the artistic experience and transform the city with beautiful lighting.”
Ticketing and VIP Experiences
While many parts of IMMERSE are free and open to the public, ticketed options provide exclusive access to premium experiences:
- Full Experience ($25): Closer access to performance stages, admission to IMMERSE Art Park, and entry to Sunday’s third-day experience.
- VIP Experience ($100): A curated route through the festival, access to VIP areas, exclusive art encounters, two drink tickets, and third-day admission.
- VIP Dining Experience ($175): An exclusive dining experience on Orange Avenue, plus all the benefits of the VIP Experience.
A Community Effort
IMMERSE 2025, presented by AdventHealth, is made possible through support from Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs, the City of Orlando, and the Downtown Development Board.
“At AdventHealth, we believe whole-person care includes the healing power of the arts,” Gordon Wesley, Vice President of AdventHealth Heart, Lung, and Vascular Institute said. “Engaging with the arts—whether through music, dance, or visual experiences—can lower stress hormones, foster social connections, and improve our sense of well-being.”
Experience IMMERSE 2025
Join the Creative City Project in celebrating a decade of unforgettable artistry at IMMERSE 2025. For more details and to secure tickets, visit www.IMMERSEfest.com.
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