Orlando’s local economy will get a shot in the arm this weekend when the NBA brings its 2012 All Star Game to the city on Sunday, February 26, at the Amway Center.

Hotels in the immediate area are booking up fast at a premium.

Traffic has been jammed since Wednesday, especially along state Interstate 4. Drivers will have to leave well ahead of time to get to their destinations in and around downtown Orlando this weekend. No complaints, for sure, from business owners near the Amway Center and even local residents looking to make extra money from parking, food vending and the like.

Visitors from all over the country will attend a variety of events this weekend, including the Slam Dunk contest, All Star Celebrity Game, All Star Rising Stars Challenge and a fitness event, to name a few.  Tons of celebrities parties and volunteer efforts are planned  throughout the Central Florida area.

You can get details of official NBA events at www.nba.com.

© Orlando Community News, 2012