The 26th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival has burst into bloom at the Walt Disney World Resort filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spring daily until June 3, 2019.
Lush Gardens
During the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival breathtaking flower beds, plots of plant life, and wildlife habitats can be found in every area of the park.
From Bonsai trees to butterflies, there’s a bounty of displays ready to capture your family’s attention and imagination.
Topiaries with character
Walt Disney World – Matt Stroshane, photographer
This year scattered around the park, 70 Disney-crafted topiaries have been created by the talented crew of Disney horticulturists.
Interactive Play Scapes
Step off the beaten Festival path to experience two new whimsical play gardens with fun, hands-on activities and interactive play scapes.
Bo Peep’s Playtime Training Grounds, located near Test Track, is a playful playground and garden inspired by Bo Peep and the rest of your Toy Story pals.
The Play Full Garden, located on the Imagination Walkway, will inspire the entire family to gather for interactive activities that focus on nutrition and wellness.
Outdoor Kitchens
Walt Disney World – Harrison Cooney
As festival-goers take in all the floral wonders of the Festival, they can also find culinary delights at over a dozen Outdoor Kitchens around Epcot’s World Showcase.
The Outdoor Kitchens open at 11am, and just outside of each location a garden offers inspiration for learning to grow healthy ingredients.
Garden Rocks Concert Series
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will rock every evening of the festival with three performances by chart-topping artists on the America Gardens Theatre Stage.
Here are the performers you’ll see:
April 3 through 4 – Christopher Cross – NEW to Garden Rocks!
April 5 through 7 – The Spinners
April 8 through 9 – Dennis DeYoung, original member of the group Styx
April 10 through 11 – John Michael Montgomery – NEW!
April 12 through 13 – Sister Sledge – NEW to Garden Rocks!
April 14 through 16 – Night Ranger
April 17 through 19 – Sister Hazel – NEW to Garden Rocks!
April 20 through 21 – Steven Curtis Chapman – NEW!
April 22 through 23 – TobyMac – NEW!
April 24 through 26 – Lonestar
April 27 through 30 – The Orchestra, starring former members of ELO
May 1 through 4 – Herman’s Hermits, starring Peter Noone
May 5 through 7 – Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles
May 8 through 9 – A Flock of Seagulls – NEW!
May 10 through 11 – Marshall Tucker Band – NEW to Garden Rocks!
May 12 through 13 – Peabo Bryson – NEW!
May 14 through 15 – Richard Marx – NEW to Garden Rocks!
May 16 through 19 – Starship, starring Mickey Thomas
May 20 through 21 – Colin Hay of Men at Work – NEW!
May 22 through 23 – War – NEW!
May 24 through 27 – The Guess Who
May 28 through 29 – Jon Secada
May 30 through June 1 – Blood, Sweat and Tears
June 2 through June 3 – Eddie Palmieri – NEW!
Additionally, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at 15 popular Epcot restaurants with guaranteed seating for a nightly concert with a Garden Rocks Dining Package. Dining packages can be booked by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
Festival Exclusive Guided Tours
Walt Disney World – Matt Stroshane, photographer
Guided tours are available for guests interested in learning more about nature’s magic exclusively during the Festival.
The Royal Tea Garden Tour, presented by Twinings, takes place each festival morning at the United Kingdom Pavilion, and guides guests through the tranquil tea garden to learn the history and artistry behind growing and blending tea.
The Gardens of the World tour, offered on select days, lets guests join a Disney horticulturist for a three-hour walking tour to explore the festival gardens and topiaries discovering new plant materials and gardening techniques to use in their home gardens.
Epcot admission and a fee are required to join these tours. To make a reservation, call (407) WDW-TOUR.
Family Scavenger Hunts
Gardeners of all ages are invited to participate in Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration family scavenger hunt through the garden pollination trail on a search for Spike’s best blooms as he pollinates flower beds across Epcot.
The botanical-happy hunt begins by purchasing a map at Port of Entry for $6.99 plus tax, then continues with a visit to each World Showcase pavilion.
The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, including all gardens and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.
Guests can personalize their experience at this all new destination, bringing NBA in WNBA moments to life at Disney Springs
The Walt Disney World Resort just announced that the NBA Experience, a brand new destination coming to Disney Springs, will officially open on August 12, 2019.
The NBA experience will give guests a chance to feel like a basketball superstar in one-of-a-kind environment packed with 13 interactive elements and hands on activities across 44,000 feet and two floors.
Rendering: Walt Disney World
The design of the NBA Experience at Disney Springs was created in collaboration with the NBA, and will include immersive environments such as an entryway designed to make guests feel as if they’re walking through the players tunnel at an NBA or WNBA arena.
A ticket to the NBA experience grants guess access to every activity, in any order they choose with the ability to return to stations to improve performances or learn even more about the game, players, and the teams they love.
In addition to all of the experiences you can have, there will also be a retail store featuring NBA themed merchandise.
Rendering: Walt Disney World
Here are a few of the elements that you will find inside of the NBA experience at Disney Springs:
A Slam Dunk Challenge, where guests can change the height of the standard 10-foot hoop to as low as 7-feet to perform their own superstar moves – captured by burst photography.
An activity that tests shooting skills with spots on a court that light up as guests move from one location to another attempting to sink as many shots as possible in 15 seconds.
A way for guests to see how they stack up to some of the world’s best basketball players by measuring their vertical leap, wingspan, shooting, and dribbling.
Personalization for various activities with guests names and associating me activity with their favorite NBA or WNBA teams.
Real-time technology to aggregate statistics of NBA and WNBA games and players for continuous updates, while leader boards will track top NBA experience performers throughout each day.
DISCLOSURE: I was invited by Walt Disney World to preview the Epcot International Festival of Arts, however all opinions are my own.
The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is back to kick off 2019 with an even larger celebration of the visual, culinary, and performing arts until February 25th.
During the 39 day Festival, you will find a large selection of activities that are included with your admission, concerts featuring Broadway stars, and food that is both beautiful and tasty.
With so much to choose from, I thought that I would share my top picks for a day at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts!
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Arts Must Do’s
1. Disney on Broadway Concert Series
My number one choice should come as no surprise!
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series, with performances at the American Gardens Theatre, features Disney on Broadway stars singing a selection of songs from award-winning Disney on Broadway productions
New this year, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series has expanded to seven days a week during the festival, providing more opportunities than ever before to bask in live Disney magic.
The lineup of performers and songs will rotate regularly, and you can find more information on both on the official Epcot International Festival of the Arts website.
The concert series is included with park admission with shows at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. nightly.
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series is INCREDIBLY popular, and lines form well before the shows begin. However dining packages are available at participating Epcot restaurants and guarantee show seating, and reservations can be made by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
2. Find a picture perfect snack at the Festival Food Studios
The Epcot International Festival of the Arts will feature 13 Food Studios, plus additional creative food and beverage offerings, scattered around Epcot, with an expanded selection of delicious new tastes to savor.
My favorites this year from the preview were:
Beef wellington with mushroom bordelaise, fennel cream and roasted baby vegetables that can be found at The Artist’s Table.
Smoked salmon and cream gâteau with egg yolk cream, paddlefish caviar and micro-herbs is sure to be a new favorite at The Painter’s Palate.
Almond frangipane cake with raspberry and chocolate at Pop Eats!.
3. Find fun photo stops
Another one of my favorite things to do during the Epcot International Festival of the Arts is to step inside works of art and take fun photos.
These fun photo ops are scattered around the park, and at each one you will find a Disney PhotoPass photographer to help capture your iconic pose.
4. Learn something new at a complimentary Festival Seminar
Experience a 30-minute seminar led by artists giving helpful instruction for producing your own artwork at home.
These seminars take place in the Odyssey Festival Center from 11:30am until noon and are available on a first-come,-first-serve basis.
All events are subject to cancellation or change, so you will want to check your Epcot International Festival of the Arts times guide. A full list of the Seminars can be found online.
5. Revisit the Animation Academy
During the Epcot International Festival of the Arts you can once again pick up your pencil at the Animation Academy where you can learn how to draw some of your favorite Disney characters at the Odyssey Events Pavilion.
6. Make your own masterpiece at Festival Workshops
A variety of workshops led by professionals will teach guests to create their own masterpiece using a variety of artistic techniques Friday-Monday for $39 per participant plus tax at the Odyssey Events Pavilion.
The workshops take place from 1:30pm until 2:45pm, and must be booked in advance by calling (407) WDW-TOUR. If you are an Annual Passholders and/or Disney Vacation Club member, you will receive a 15% discount.
All events are subject to cancellation or change, so you will want to check your Epcot International Festival of the Arts times guide. A full list of the Workshops can be found online.
7. Become a Festival Artist
You don’t just get to see the art at the Epcot International Festival of Arts, because you can grab a paintbrush and help create a wall mural along World Showcase Plaza.
After you finish your squares, make sure to visit the mural throughout the day to watch it come to life!
8. Take part in an artful scavenger hunt
Help Figment learn about art on this scavenger hunt around World Showcase with Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt.
To get started, purchase your map and stickers at Pin Central, Disney Traders, or World Traveler. Then, search for Figment hiding inside famous works of art at each World Showcase pavilion (Here’s a hint… look for the Figment-themed picture frame). Every time you find Figment, add the corresponding sticker to the pavilion on your map.
Once your journey is complete, return your map to Disney Traders for an artful surprise.
9. Don’t forget to exit through the Gift Shop
You won’t want to miss the chance to take home a piece of artwork or a souvenir from your time at the Epcot International Festival of Arts.
Art collectors and Disney enthusiasts alike will find artwork for sale throughout the entire park, from the Art of Disney store to Festival Markets.
In addition, special merchandise will be available at Mouse Gear and other Epcot locations featuring the festival’s logo adorning shirts, mugs, totes and other charming items.
The Epcot Festival of the Arts, January 17 to February 24, is a celebration of all art forms, but my favorite to discover is the culinary arts!
It’s true that you eat with your eyes first, and each of these festival exclusive Food Studios will paint an exquisite picture of gastronomical perfection!
Throughout Epcot’s World Showcase (and more) you can find fun and colorful fare, and here is a look at what you can find in each Epcot Festival of the Arts Food Studio.
2020 Epcot Festival of the Arts Food Studio Guide
The Deconstructed Dish
Embark on an edible adventure with delicious dishes that dazzle!
Food:
Deconstructed Reuben: Sliced Corned Beef, Rye-crusted Sauerkraut and Jarlsberg Cake with Broken Thousand Island Dressing
Deconstructed BLT: Crispy Pork Belly, Tomato Jam and Soft Poached Egg
Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: Whipped New York Style Cheesecake with Fresh Florida Strawberries and Sugar Cookies with Micro-basil (KA)
Beverages:
Rainboba: Sparkling Water layered with Fruit Boba and topped with a Foam Cloud (non-alcoholic) (KA)
Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake garnished with Maple Syrup, a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon (non-alcoholic) (KA)
Imagery Sauvignon Blanc, California
Mad Genius Red Blend, California
Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with Cream Bourbon, garnished with a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon
Cuisine Classique
Prepare to be amazed with these hearty braised bites and traditional Old World delights!
Food:
Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with Parsnip Purée, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes and Aged Balsamic
Seared Corvina with braised Ratatouille and Lemon-Thyme Beurre Blanc (GF) (KA)
Saint-Honoré Tart: Caramel Cream Tart with Caramel Glaze topped with Cream Puffs
Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie (KA)
Beverages:
Angry Orchard Rosé Hard Cider, Walden, NY
Concrete Beach Brewery Rosé Ale, Miami, FL
Frozen Rosé
Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva Art Series, Logrono, Spain
Domaine Savary Chablis, Burgundy
A Play on Rosé Flight
The Artist’s Table
Satisfy hunger with these savory plates—all prepared using oven and stove-top techniques!
Food:
Beef Wellington with Mushroom Bordelaise, Fennel Cream, and Roasted Baby Vegetables (KA)
Pan-Seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis and a Parmesan Crisp (GF)
Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie (KA)
Beverages:
Sipping Chocolate Flight: White, Milk and Dark (non-alcoholic)
Saugatuck Brewing Co. Neapolitan Milk Stout, Douglas, MI
Lexington Brewing Company Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Lexington, KY
Lindemans Framboise Lambic, Belgium
Barrymore Rosé, Monterey County, CA
Carmel Road Drew’s Blend Pinot Noir, Monterey County, CA
Symphony in Chocolate Flight: Mozart Cream Liqueurs paired with Sipping Chocolates
Chocolate and Beer Pairing Flight
Pop Eats!
Unearth the tasty treasures and tantalizing textures of modern art-inspired eats!
Food:
Sous Vide Chicken Roulade with Apples and Sage served with Warm Brie Fondue, Blueberry and Beet Gel and garnished with Beet Chip Crumbles (GF)
Shrimp Ceviche with Lime Mint Foam (GF)
Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Belgian Chocolate (KA)
Pop’t Art: Modern-design Sugar Cookie with Strawberry Filling (KA)
Beverages:
Blue Sky Black Cherry Boba Freeze (non-alcoholic) (KA)
#RainbowSherbetGlitterDreamAle by Playalinda Brewing Co., Titusville, FL
Popping Bubbles Cocktail
Tomato Soup Can Bloody Mary
Decadent Delights
Indulge in a gallery of divine delectables that transform dessert into a fine art!
Food:
White Chocolate and Purple Sweet Potato Mousse, Caramel, Coconut and Maple Meringue
Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Pretzel Crunch (KA)
Lemon and Blood Orange Tart
Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie (KA)
White Chocolate Figment Puzzle on an Artist Palette (KA)
Beverages:
3 Daughters Strawberry Blonde Nitro, St. Petersburg, FL
Breckenridge Nitro Vanilla Porter, Breckenridge, CO
Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, England
Biagio Moscato d’Asti, Piedmont
Florida Orange Groves Winery Black and Blue Port, St. Petersburg, FL
Cold Fashioned Coffee Cocktail
Neapolitan Beer Flight
The Masterpiece Kitchen
Raise your glass and celebrate this fabulous fusion of food and wine—cheers!
Smoked Salmon and Cream Gâteau with Egg Yolk Cream, Paddlefish Caviar and Micro-herbs
Charcuterie Palette with Artisan Cured Meats and Cheeses featuring Nueske’s ® Applewood Smoked Beef
Vanilla, Rose Water and Pistachio Panna Cotta
Beverages:
Weihenstephaner Original Lager, Freising, Germany
Perrier-Jouët Belle Époque Brut Champagne
The Meeker Vineyard Winemakers’ Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County, CA
Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut, Spain
Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Rosé, Spain
Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist
Additional Festival Locations
Delight your appetite with mouthwatering morsels, nibbles and noshes from these year-round food stops.
Funnel Cakes – The American Adventure
Food:
Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich Funnel Cake with Peanut Butter Ice Cream, Marshmallow Cream and Raspberry Glaze (KA)
Fife & Drum – The American Adventure
Food:
Musical Float: Layered Strawberry, Lemonade and Blue Raspberry Slushy with Vanilla Ice Cream and White Chocolate (non-alcoholic) (KA)
Block & Hans – The American Adventure
Beverage
Arendelle Aqua Lemonade: Frozen Lemonade with Monin Cotton Candy and Ole Smoky Blackberry Moonshine
Goshiki – Japan Pavilion
Food:
Taiyaki: Fish-shaped Cake stuffed with a Sweet Red Bean Filling served with Green Tea Chocolate and Whipped Cream Cheese (KA)
Sushi Donut: Donut-shaped Sushi featuring Salmon, Tuna, Shrimp, Cucumber and Sesame Seed over a decorated plate of Wasabi Aïoli, Sriracha and Eel Sauce
Vegetable Gyoza: Vegetable and Edamame filled Gyoza atop Truffle-mashed Potatoes, Shiitake Mushrooms, Pepper Strings and Tonkatsu Teriyaki Sauce (KA)
Beverages:
Nomi Masui Draft Lager
Masu Sake in a Traditional Personalized Wooden Cup
Nigori Sake Cocktail: Frozen Nigori Sake and Calpico accented with Strawberry and finished with Cotton Candy
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
Beverages:
Canada: Impressionism Pairing: Blackberry Iced Latte topped with a delicious Blueberry Donut and Sweet Whipped Cream
Showcase Plaza: Renaissance Pairing: Iced Mocha Latte served with a timeless Glazed Donut and Sprinkles
Future World East: Modern Pairing: Coconut Iced Latte garnished with a decadent Chocolate Donut and topped with Whipped Cream and Sprinkles
The American Adventure: Baroque Pairing: White Mocha Iced Latte layered with a Red Velvet Donut and Sprinkles
El Arista Hambriento – Mexico Pavilion
Food:
Sopes de Barbacoa: Braised Barbacoa Beef served on Fried Guajillo Corn Shell with Black Beans, Cotija Cheese, Mexican Cream and Chives
Ciderboys Zen Berry Apple Boysenberry Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI
Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, CA
Test Track Cool Wash – Future World East
Beverages:
Assorted Coca-Cola Slushies (non-alcoholic) (KA)
The Painted Panda – China
Food:
Spicy Beef Shumai
Char Siu Pork Bun
Beverages:
“Panda” Bubble Tea: Classic Milk Tea with Black and White Boba Pearls (non-alcoholic) (KA)
Jasmine Draft Beer
Fortune Cookie: ByeJoe Spirit, Amaretto, Coconut and Pineapple
Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, Triple Sec
Sea Butterfly: Butterfly Pea Flower-infused Cocktail with Lychee Syrup, Vodka, Light Rum and Magic Boba Pearls
L’Art du Cuisine Francaise – France
Food:
Crème de Brie en Petit Pain: Warm Creamy Brie in a House-made Bread Bowl (KA)
Tomate Farcie Faҫon Paul Bocuse: Tomato Stuffed with Braised Ribs Paul Bocuse-style
Moelleux Aux Chocolats Valrhona: Molten Chocolate Cake with Pure Origin Valrhona Chocolates (KA)
Trio de Macarons: Assortment of Three House-made Macarons in a Gift Box
Beverages:
Frozen French Martini: Grey Goose, Vodka, Chambord Liqueur, Pineapple, Orange and Grape Juice with Lemon-Lime Foam
Veuve du Vernay, Brut N°1, Limited Edition: French Sparkling Wine
Vouvray, Marcel Dubois, 2018
Bordeaux, Château Malbec, 2015
Mosaic Canteen – Morocco
Food:
Spiced Beef with Pine Nuts and Dried Cherries, Hummus and Pita Chips
Mediterranean Flatbread with Zaatar, Olive Oil Artichoke, Olives, Mozzarella and Feta Cheese
Chebbakia: Hand-twisted Strips of Fried Dough coated with Honey, Rosewater and Sesame Seeds
Beverages:
Casa Beer
Kabash Prestige White Wine
Embrace the Arak: Massaya Arak, Grapefruit Juice and Grenadine
L’Arte di Mangiare – Italy
Food:
Insalata di Gamberi al Limone di Zagara: Salad of Poached Shrimp in Sicilian Lemons, Arugula, Shaved Fennel, Avocado, and Citrus Dressing
Pollo ala Pirandello: Golden Chicken Drumstick stuffed with Ricotta Cheese and Pomodoro Sauce (KA)
Rossini: Prosecco Mousse with Strawberry Sauce (contains alcohol)
Beverages:
Peroni Nastro Azzurro Pilsner
Prosecco, Villa Sandi
Moscato Fior d’Arancio, Montegrande
Corbinello, Montegrande
Pinot Grigio, Santa Marina
Merlot, Montegrande
Amaretto Bellini: Amaretto, White Peach Purée and Prosecco
Vodka Rossini: Vodka, Strawberry Purée and Prosecco
Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine
New this year to the Epcot Festival of the Arts, take a technicolor tour around Epcot and sample a spectrum of dazzling, delicious dishes in a vibrant variety of hues.
Purchase any 5 menu items from the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine locations and be sure to collect a stamp to commemorate the occasion! Bring your Festival Passport—featuring your 5 new stamps—to Decadent Delights for a colorful culinary prize offered exclusively at the Festival.
No need to hurry! Complete the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine at your leisure, and bring your stamped Festival Passport back to Epcot anytime between now and February 24, 2020 to finish your stroll.
Right now there are some FANTASTIC ticket and annual pass offers available for the theme parks of Central Florida!
Let’s take a look at them all!
SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando Preschool Card
The 2019 SeaWorld/Aquatica Preschool Card is now available for registration exclusively for Florida Residents offering an ocean of experiences that are perfect for pint-sized guests, from up-close animal encounters to breathtaking live shows.
SeaWorld and Aquatica Orlando will offer kids ages 5 and younger a FREE Preschool Card valid for visits through December 31, 2019 for unlimited admission to both SeaWorld and Aquatica Orlando.
Advance registration must be completed online and is only valid for children ages 5 or younger at the time of redemption at the park.
Please note registration is required by January 27, 2019 and ticket redemption is by February 28, 2019.
To redeem your Preschool Card visit a SeaWorld Orlando or Aquatica Orlando ticket window and present all of these:
Your Preschool Card online registration confirmation
Your child’s birth certificate or travel passport
Your Florida resident ID
Also keep in mind that the Preschool Card does not include taxes, service fees, free parking, separately-ticketed events, or other discounts.
Busch Gardens Tampa and Adventure Island Preschool Card
The 2019 Busch Gardens Tampa/Adventure Island Card is now available for registration exclusively for Florida Residents offering an ocean of experiences that are perfect for guests 5 and under.
Busch Gardens Tampa and Adventure Island will offer kids ages 5 and younger a FREE Preschool Card valid for visits through December 31, 2019 for unlimited admission to both Busch Gardens Tampa and Adventure Island.
Advance registration must be completed online and is only valid for children ages 5 or younger at the time of redemption at the park.
Please note registration is required by January 27, 2019 and ticket redemption is by February 28, 2019.
To redeem your Preschool Card visit a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Adventure Island ticket window and present all of these:
Your Preschool Card online registration confirmation
Your child’s birth certificate or travel passport
Your Florida resident ID
Also keep in mind that the Preschool Card does not include taxes, service fees, free parking, separately-ticketed events, or other discounts.
Busch Gardens Tampa and Adventure Island BOGO Fun Cards
For a limited time, buy a 2019 Busch Gardens Fun Card and get an Adventure Island Fun Card FREE. Blockout dates apply.
Valid at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay through December 31, 2019.
2019 Blockout Dates: Mar. 30 | Apr. 6 & 13-27 | May 25-26 | July 1-7 | Nov. 23-24 & 29-30 | Dec. 21-22 & 28-30. Valid at Adventure Island March 15 through October 27, 2019.
2019 Blockout Dates: April 14 & 20-27 | May 25-27 | July 4-7, 13-14 & 20.
Keep in mind that a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay / Adventure Island Fun Card
Does not include admission to select special events (including Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens), parking, or discounts on food and merchandise.
Only valid for residents of the US, Canada and Puerto Rico.
Non-transferable and non-refundable. Not valid with other discounts or special offers.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s FREE Preschooler Pass, available from January 10 through February 18, 2019, will grant Florida Resident children ages 3-years-old and 4-years-old 12 months of unlimited admission to both LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park and Water Park.
As the theme park built for kids, LEGOLAND Florida Resort offers more than 60 percent of its rides and attractions for guests 40 inches or taller. The one-time offer pass includes all seasonal events including Brick or Treat and early spring visits when THE LEGO® MOVIE™ WORLD opens. Taking guests from the theater to the theme park, the newest theme park addition will feature three attractions, inspired by the characters and themes of the worldwide blockbuster THE LEGO® MOVIE and the upcoming THE LEGO® MOVIE 2: The Second Part.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s Preschooler Pass will be available for a limited time at the admission ticket window only. Guests purchasing the pass must bring a copy of their child’s birth certificate or travel passport for proof of age. Children must be aged 3-years-old or 4-years-old at the time of receiving the Preschooler Pass to qualify. Guests ages 2-years-old and under will continue to receive free admission.
Annual Passes are none refundable, however if you have purchased a LEGOLAND Florida Resort Annual Pass for your 3 or 4-year- old, you can choose to extend the validity of that pass by 12 months or transfer the purchased pass to an immediate family member. (Transfers are limited to one per person).
Universal Orlando Resort has launched a first-of-its-kind offer that gives Passholders more thrills and adventure than ever before. Starting today, guests can get up to six months FREE on Universal Orlando Resort Annual Passes depending on what tier they choose.
This special offer is valid on 2-Park (Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure) and 3-Park (Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay) Seasonal and Annual Passes and is available for purchase and activation through April 4, 2019.
Here’s a look at the different Universal Orlando Annual Passes:
Seasonal Pass
$269.99 for two park, $368.99 for three park
Three months free
Doesn’t include any parking or merchandise discounts,
Includes blackout dates
Power Pass
$354.99 for two park, $463.99 for three park
Three months free
50% off regular daytime self-parking after your first visit
Limited discounts at CityWalk, Blue Man Group, and resort hotels
Includes blackout dates
Preferred Pass
$394.99 for two park, $503.99 for three park
Six months free
Free self-parking and discounted rates for normal and Red Carpet valet parking after your first visit
10% Discount at Universal-owned stores and restaurants (not carts), CityWalk, Blue Man Group, and resort hotels
No blackout dates
Early park admission without having to be a resort guest
Premier Pass
$559.99 for two park, $733.99 for three park
Six months free
Free prime self-parking and normal valet parking, with a large discount for Red Carpet valet parking
15% Discount at Universal-owned stores and restaurants (not carts), CityWalk, Blue Man Group, and resort hotels
No blackout dates
Early park admission without having to be a resort guest
Free Express Pass after 4pm
For more information and to purchase Universal Orlando Resort Annual Passes visit their website.
Walt Disney World Florida Resident ‘Discover Disney’ Ticket
For a limited time, Florida residents can take advantage of a special ticket offer and purchase a 3-day Discover Disney Ticket for only $175 plus tax—valid for admission to one theme park per day! Plus, add a 4th day for just $20 more plus tax! These tickets can be used on non-consecutive days through June 30, 2019 with no blockout dates.
Visit multiple theme parks on the same day by upgrading your ticket to include the Park Hopper Option for just $32.50 plus tax more for a 3-day ticket or $37.50 more plus tax for a 4-day ticket.
For an additional $57.50 plus tax, add the Park Hopper Plus Option to a 3-day Discover Disney Ticket—or for an additional $62.50 plus tax, add the Park Hopper Plus Option to a 4 -day Discover Disney Ticket. If you add the Park Hopper Plus Option to your Discover Disney Ticket, you get all the benefits of the Park Hopper Option, plus you can enjoy 3 visits with the 3-day Discover Disney ticket or 4 visits with the 4-Day Discover Disney ticket to the Disney Water Parks, select Disney golf courses and more Walt Disney World fun.
Take advantage of these great prices:
3-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $175 plus tax
3-Day Discover Disney Ticket with Park Hopper Option – $207.50 plus tax
3-Day Discover Disney Ticket with Park Hopper Plus Option – $232.50 plus tax
4-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $195 plus tax
4-Day Discover Disney Ticket with Park Hopper Option – $232.50 plus tax
4-Day Discover Disney Ticket with Park Hopper Plus Option – $257.50 plus tax
Purchase through June 27, 2019. Discover Disney Tickets are valid for use through June 30, 2019 and can be used on non-consecutive days—with no blockout dates.
Tickets and options are nontransferable and nonrefundable and exclude activities/events separately priced. Discover Disney 3- and 4-Day Tickets and add-on Options expire on June 30, 2019.
To learn more and to purchase the Walt Disney World Florida Residents Discovery Tickets visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/special-offers/resident-discover or to book by phone, call (407) 939-4290 and speak with a vacation planning expert, or call your travel agent.
Conversations with Cheryl: Make a runDisney Goal – My runDisney 5K Story
I never thought I could achieve a 5k. My friends were in participating in the runDisney 5K, and at over 310 pounds I was scared but excited to join them.
How I started slowly…
The idea of training for my first 5k was daunting at first, but once I became more comfortable with the idea that a 5K was 3.1 miles which I typically walked during a day in the parks I was ready to get started.
My favorite (and easy) practice walk was to go to Epcot and walk around World Showcase, which is 1.2 miles.
After I got comfortable walking for longer periods of time, I found that I wanted to keep going so I would walk at night around my neighborhood or I would hop on the treadmill.
Do you need a buddy for a runDisney 5k?
I like to walk with friends, but it is not completely necessary.
If you think you would like to have a buddy, don’t be shy about asking your friends. Who knows…you could inspire them to give it a try, too!
Also if you look on Facebook it is easy to find running groups, charity runners, and running events in your local area.
I wear my 5k T Shirts and people say “I could never do a 5k”. My response is If I can walk a 5k at my weight, they should be able to walk one as well.
One thing that helped keep me motived and focused was Cigna Coaching!
Part of my insurance with Cignainvolves Cigna coaching for those that don’t meet their BMI. My coach is friendly and it is incredibly convenient for me to meet my coach at his mobile office.
httpv://youtu.be/zP5JJARGhDk
My biggest piece of advice? Don’t be scared about meeting with a coach!
One of the first things you will do with your coach is to set goals together.
Over on the Disney Parks Blog, Jeremy Schoolfield just shared a blog post about the 19 new Magical Experiences in 2019 coming to Walt Disney World.
2019 is definitely going to be one for the Theme Park history books!!!
Check out what’s coming in his post and let us know what you’re looking forward to the most!!!!
19 Magical Experiences in 2019 at Walt Disney World Resort
HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2019 is going to be an amazing time at Walt Disney World Resort, with so many new and exciting things happening all year long. You’ll travel to a galaxy far, far away and experience zany fun aboard a runaway railway. You can MousekeDance yourself silly and play basketball like the pros. Or maybe you’ll want to take in beautiful views while you dine 15 stories high atop a new resort hotel tower or glide across the sky in a gondola.
So let’s get to it!
Here are 19 reasons to be excited for a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in 2019:
Walt Disney World
1. Anything Can Happen at Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration – Starting Jan. 18, Magic Kingdom Park is honoring those true originals, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, now, more than ever with new entertainment, merchandise and specialty food and beverages. The new “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party” will parade up Main Street, U.S.A. several times daily, while you can meet Mickey and Minnie together – wearing their new birthday outfits – in Town Square Theater.
2. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios – On May 1, Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The park is honoring this achievement all year with a new 30th anniversary logo and other fun and excitement (see below!).
Walt Disney World
3. Say a Fond Farewell to IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth – After nearly 20 years of delighting Epcot guests through music, fireworks, fire torches and more, this nighttime spectacular will be ending in the second half of this year. Now, more than ever you’ll want to spend another evening around World Showcase Lagoon to celebrate this classic show that has entertained millions since its October 1999 debut.
4. Jaleo Cooks Up Fresh Tastes at Disney Springs – Chef José Andrés will bring the spirit and flavors of Spain to Disney Springs with his new Jaleo restaurant, opening this winter. The tapas experience will offer a lively setting befitting its name, which means “revelry.”
5. Party with Pixar Pals at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Starting Jan. 18, celebrate the park’s 30th anniversary with The Incredibles, who will host a dance party at Pixar Avenue (where you can also meet the one and only Edna Mode!). A door to the monster world will open at Walt Disney Presents, where Mike and Sulley from Disney•Pixar’s “Monsters, Inc.” will be greeting you. And Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie and the rest of the gang are ready to welcome you into Andy’s backyard at the new Toy Story Land.
Walt Disney World
6. Disney on Broadway Concert Series Expands During Epcot International Festival of the Arts –This celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts returns Jan. 18-Feb. 25. This year, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series will expand to seven days a week, so you can bask in live Disney magic more than ever. The festival also will feature 13 Food Studios, a variety of workshops led by professional artists, interactive exhibits and activities, and much more.
7. “The Lion King” Roars Again at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – 2019 marks the 25th anniversary of Walt Disney Pictures’ animated classic “The Lion King.” To mark this occasion, starting Jan. 18 Rafiki and Timon will lead you in dances and games during the “Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party” on Discovery Island.
Walt Disney World
8. Take in the Topiaries During Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – Welcome spring’s arrival with this popular festival, which returns March 6-June 3. This year’s event will feature delectable bites at outdoor kitchens, as well as dozens of world-renowned, Disney-themed topiaries. In addition, the Garden Rocks Concert Series will include three shows a day for all 90 days of the event.
Walt Disney World
9. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy Speeds into Disney’s Hollywood Studios – When this new show experience opens this spring, you’ll come face to face with racing legend Lightning McQueen, who will teach you about racing from his years of experience on the track. This will be the untold story of Lightning McQueen … as told by Lightning McQueen!
Walt Disney World
10. H2O Glow Nights Return to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – These evening beach parties happen Thursdays and Saturdays from May 30 through Aug. 17, transforming the water park into a new nighttime experience through special music, lighting and food. Come party with friends from Pixar’s “Toy Story” films during the 30th anniversary summer of Typhoon Lagoon!
11. New Cinematic Nighttime Experience Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – As part of the theme park’s 30th anniversary, Wonderful World of Animation will debut May 1. The show will use state-of-the-art technology to take you on a magical journey through more than 90 years of Disney animation, all beginning with Mickey.
Walt Disney World
12. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort to Open New Tower – This summer, the resort will complete a total reimagining, including the new 15-story Gran Destino tower featuring a rooftop restaurant and 545 new guest rooms. A second new restaurant will be located on an island in the middle of the resort’s 14-acre lake, while all of its existing 1,800-plus rooms have been fully updated with new fixtures and furnishings.
Walt Disney World
13. NBA Experience Will Be a Slam Dunk at Disney Springs – This brand-new destination will allow you to participate in your own scouting report, take you through pregame preparations and let you step onto the court to make clutch shots and highlight reel-worthy slam dunks. By participating in 13 unique and innovative hands-on activities, you’ll feel like a star player.
Walt Disney World
14. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Will Spice Up Fall – The aromas and flavors of global marketplaces will welcome you to the 24th year of this renowned festival. You’ll have a chance to meet celebrity chefs, try new food and wine pairings, and listen to great music during the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
15. Major Youth Sporting Events Return to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – The Jr. NBA World Championship will return to the complex, showcasing top boys and girls basketball teams from around the world. In December, the 63rd Pop Warner Super Bowl will bring hundreds of young football players to Walt Disney World to compete in national championship games.
Walt Disney World
16. Explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Live your own Star Wars adventure when this deeply immersive land opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this fall (and this summer at Disneyland Park in California). You’ll explore Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu, where you’ll find all manner of new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, characters and creatures from a galaxy far, far away. The land will also feature two thrilling new attractions: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Walt Disney World
17. Take a Ride on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – Opening later this year at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this will be the first ride-through attraction themed to Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. It will feature a new original story and lovable theme song, taking you on a journey inside the wacky and unpredictable world of Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts. New technologies will transform the two-dimensional cartoon world into an astounding multi-dimensional experience.
Walt Disney World
18. Glide Through the Air in the Disney Skyliner –Disney Skyliner will offer Tinker Bell views later this year as guests float in gondolas to either Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios on roundtrips from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and the new Disney’s Riviera Resort.
Walt Disney World
19. Disney’s Riviera Resort Will Be 15th Disney Vacation Club Resort – Scheduled to open by the end of this year, Disney’s Riviera Resort will reflect an elegant early 20th-century design, inspired by Walt Disney’s travels to the Mediterranean. The deluxe DVC resort is slated to offer approximately 300 family-friendly vacation home units.
Disclosure: I was an invited guest of the Walt Disney World Resort to experience the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, however all opinions are 100% my own.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.
The Epcot International Festival of Holidays fills the park with holiday magic, international seasonal delicacies, captivating live entertainment, and festive decor daily until December 30th. And the best gift of all? Most of what you can experience is included with your theme park admission!
The Festival is a great way for families to learn about and even celebrate Holiday traditions from around the world, and at this year’s Epcot International Festival of Holidays you can also experience a new Holiday Cookie Stroll as well as new food and beverage items at Holiday Kitchens throughout Epcot.
With so much to do, I thought I would share my Epcot International Festival of the Holidays must do’s and tips!
Top 7 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Must Do’s and Tips
Try a tasty teats at the Holiday Kitchens
At the Epcot International Festival of the Holidaysyou can savor holiday dishes and beverages from across the globe at 12 specialty kitchens set around the park’s World Showcase.
The L’Chaim Holiday Kitchen is new this year, and the potato knish with herb sour cream was AMAZING!!!
New items this year include black forest roulade with cherry whipped cream at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen in the Germany pavilion and sofrito-marinated beef with sweet plantains, and olives at the Feast of the Three Kings Holiday Kitchen.
AND a brand-new kitchen this year, L’Chaim!, will feature traditional Jewish dishes such as pastrami on rye, chicken and matzo ball soup, and more. I can tell you that this Holiday Kitchen is an ABSOLUTE MUST DO!!!!
If you want to find out a COMPLETE list of what you can find at each Holiday Kitchen, visit the official Festival website to plan your culinary celebration!
Tip – If you want to sample dishes at the Holiday Kitchens, you can stay on budget by using Disney Gift Cards! Also, don’t forget to register your card on disneygiftcard.com, because if you lose the card you can still have access to the money you’ve loaded onto the card.
Three words…Holiday Cookie Stroll
New this year is the Holiday Cooke Stroll where you can enjoy delicious cookies from cookie stroll locations around World Showcase.
Here’s a list of all the cookies on the stroll!
As you enjoy the cookies you will collect stamps for each one in your Holiday Passport, and if you get all five stamps you will be rewarded with a complimentary “completer” cookie and a cold glass of milk!
Tip – You don’t have to eat all all five cookies in one day, but I won’t stop you…you have until December 30th to present your completed passport for the Cooke Stroll.
Candlelight Processional
Candlelight Processional is the heart of Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays, and is a retelling of the story of Christmas by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a full choir and a 50-piece orchestra in a performance that inspires joy and fills you with the holiday spirit.
This elegant showcase is performed three times nightly at 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:15 PM through December 30th at the America Gardens Theatre in Epcot’s World Showcase.
Here’s a list of this year’s remaining celebrity narrators:
NEW! Alfonso Ribeiro – November 27, 2018
Robby Benson – November 28 to 30, 2018
John Stamos – December 1 to 2, 2018
Neil Patrick Harris – December 3 to 6, 2018
Whoopi Goldberg – December 7 to 9, 2018
NEW! Bart Millard – December 10 to 12, 2018
Blair Underwood – December 13 to 14, 2018
Gary Sinise – December 15 to 17, 2018
Pat Sajak – December 18 to 20, 2018
NEW! Auli’i Cravalho – December 21 to 23, 2018
Edward James Olmos – December 24 to 25, 2018
Jodi Benson – December 26 to 27, 2018
Cal Ripken Jr. – December 28 to 30, 2018
Tip -Seating for Candlelight Processional can get quite packed, so if there is a celebrity narrator that you MUST see consider taking advantage of a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. You can choose to enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner at some of the tastiest restaurants in Epcot and the adjacent Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts followed by reserved seating at a performance of the Candlelight Processional. To reserve Candlelight Dining Packages, call (407) WDW-DINE.
Storytellers and Holiday Entertainment
Another MUST DO for the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays is to stroll the World Showcase stopping to see costumed performers bring the traditions of their home countries to Epcot with holiday stories and music, along with a variety of other international festive entertainment.
The new Hanukkah Storyteller (located between Morocco and France)
Tip – As soon as you get into the park pick up a times guide (or two) for the week, because this is the only way to find out what times performances are happening in each pavilion.
Chip ’n Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree
Chip & Dale are on a scavenger hunt, collecting ornaments for their Christmas tree—and they need your help!
Here’s a look at this year’s map!
To get started, simply purchase a map and stickers ($6.99 plus tax) from select merchandise locations including Pin Central, Disney Traders, and World Traveler at International Gateway.
As you travel around World Showcase, be on the lookout for Chip & Dale in each World Showcase pavilion.
Once you spot them, add the corresponding ornament sticker to your map.
Then, take your completed map to Disney Traders or World Traveler and exchange it for a festive surprise, courtesy of Chip & Dale!
Tip – Look carefully for Chip & Dale on wreaths on the Holiday Kitchen buildings…some are hard to find, so be patient!!!
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
The Illuminations: Reflections of Earth nighttime spectacular of fireworks, special effects, flame torches and more includes a special holiday finale nightly until December 30, 2018.
This is the view from the area between France and the United Kingdom pavilions.
This will be the final holiday season for IllumiNations, as the show is currently scheduled to conclude at the end of summer 2019, with new thrills on World Showcase Lagoon set to debut immediately afterward (more on this soon).
Tip – While most of the fireworks and special effects take place in the air, I still like to arrive 30 minutes before Illuminations: Reflections of Earth begins (make sure to check your times guide) to find a spot close to the water so I can see all of the magic!
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus
If you are looking to take an iconic Holiday photo, head to The American Adventure pavilion where you can pose for a photo and share their holiday wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Tip – The lines to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus can get quite long, so if you are visiting with little ones try to have one adult wait in line while the other adult keeps the little elves busy with the Kidcot Fun Spot at the pavilion or by grabbing a snack from the nearby Holiday Kitchen.
Attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a really fun way to ring in the holiday season, and since attending the party is a splurge for most families here are some of my best tips for making the most of your time at the celebration:
Top 10 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tips
Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party vary by date, so make sure you pick the best date for your schedule and wallet. Also, on select nights there are discounts for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. Also remember that while the party officially starts at 7 pm, you can enter the park with your Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ticket starting at 4 pm.
When you are entering the Magic Kingdom, make sure to grab a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party event map…in fact grab more than one since you will be referencing it often during the celebration.
A lot of the entertainment happens around the hub in front of Cinderella Castle, so if catching as many of those as you can is a priority consider grabbing a spot that allows you to see several of the offerings at once.
Little ones getting restless? Head over to Club Tinsel, inside of Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, where they can dance with holiday friends and get out some energy.
There are several attractions opens throughout the park during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, but if rides aren’t your priority I still recommend taking a spin on the Jingle Cruise.
There are several party exclusive treats this year that are only available after the party begins at 7pm, however if you use the My Disney Experience app to mobile order you’ll find them before the party starts. (I 10 out of 10 recommend the Feliz Navidad Nachos at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe!)
I **promise** there are nachos under all these toppings!!!
If you see merchandise you really want to purchase or a party exclusive photopass picture you want to take…do it right away! As the night goes on, lines can get longer and/or you may find yourself on the other side of the park.
Don’t forget to pick up your Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party exclusive Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card from the Firehouse on Main Street U.S.A.
After the fireworks, a sizable portion of the attendees at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will leave the park, so it is always a good idea to watch the second parade. BUT keep in mind that A Frozen Holiday Wish and Holiday Wishes fireworks only happen once during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Skipping the first parade also means shorter wait times for treats and attractions during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Yes, you are seeing at 5 minute wait for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin!
Also, don’t forget to check out my Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Guide before you go to help plan your night!Follow us for more updates:
Everything you need to know to plan a festive evening at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!
There’s no better way to celebrate Christmas than a evening at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a special hard ticketed event not included with regular theme park admission, takes place on November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29 and 30; and December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 21 from 7pm until midnight.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party gives guests the opportunity to meet with some of their favorite Disney friends in their holiday finest, enjoy holiday entertainment, exclusive fireworks, a high-energy parade, complimentary treats throughout the park, and more topped off with a ‘snowfall’ on Main Street U.S.A.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Treats
Let’s talk about those complimentary treats you can find during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, because it is more than just hot cocoa and sugar cookies!
Throughout the Magic Kingdom there are seven locations, marked with a giant inflatable candy stick, offering a wide variety of holiday treats until midnight.
Here is a list of where you can find the treats throughout the Magic Kingdom:
Tortuga Tavern (Adventureland): Snowman Soft Pretzel and Blue Sno-Cone
Liberty Square Ticket Office (Liberty Square): Ginger Molasses Cookie and Eggnog
Pinocchio Village Haus (Fantasyland): A variety of Holiday Favorite cookies and Hot Chocolate & Apple Cider
The Friar’s Nook (Fantasyland): Variety of DOVE Chocolate and Chilled Sparkling Apple Cider
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe (Tomorrowland): Snickerdoodle Cookie and Hot Chocolate
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies (Tomorrowland): Santa Claus Cookie and Blue Sno-Cone
If you have dietary concerns, there are allergy-friendly and alternative healthy options available upon request at each location.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Entertainment
Another huge part of the celebration is the event exclusive holiday entertainment, and this year the returning favorites are fantastic!
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration: Mickey and his pals invite some of their friends over for an unforgettable Christmas party filled with music, dancing, color and fun on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage! The celebration features medleys of delightful holiday songs both classic and contemporary, along with special effects, magical projections and beloved Disney characters including Woody and Jessie from “Toy Story,” Fantasyland friends such as Peter Pan and Snow White.
A Frozen Holiday Wish: Arendelle royalty and their lovable snowman visit Magic Kingdom Park to help everyone feel the wintry chill in the air and love in their hearts. “A Frozen Holiday Wish,” presented on the Castle Forecourt Stage, features Anna, Elsa, Olaf and Kristoff. As a gift to the kingdom, Elsa lets it go and uses her icy powers to transform Cinderella Castle into a sparkling palace of ice. (Keep in mind that this only happens once a night during the party, but will happen before the party officially begins if you arrive early)
“A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas”:Buzz Lightyear, Mike Wazowski and Stitch join host Haley Comet for an intergalactic musical revue on the Rockettower Plaza Stage. The show is full of modern twists on classic holiday songs and the coolest dance numbers in town!
Club Tinsel: located inside Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café in Tomorrowland, becomes the coolest place to get down with a DJ and some North Pole pals in the cheeriest dance party this side of Santa’s Workshop!
The Edge Effect: Experience the incredible vocal harmonies in an unforgettable, a cappella holiday concert live on the the Rockettower Plaza Stage.
Storybook Circus Disney Junior Jingle Jam: Young partygoers can get their groove on with their favorite Disney Junior Characters.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
Once Upon A Christmas Time
Stepping off in Frontierland, the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade fills the streets of the Magic Kingdom with holiday fun and cheer featuring some of your favorite Disney characters, iconic marching soldiers & prancing reindeer, and ending with the big guy himself.
The Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade happens twice during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and typically the second parade is less crowded.
Holiday Wishes Fireworks – Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
Holiday Wishes Fireworks – Celebrate the Spirit of the Season is the holiday nighttime fireworks and pyrotechnic spectacular that lights up the skies above Cinderella Castle that is set to some familiar and favorite holiday songs with touches of Disney magic.
PLEASE keep in mind that this only happens once during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, so if this is a priority make sure you keep track of the time. The best viewing areas are in front of Cinderella Castle, and while getting there early is still a good idea it isn’t a necessity.
Special Disney Character Appearances during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Throughout the Magic Kingdom you can find characters, their locations are marked on the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party maps with a Mickey Mouse silhouette and in the My Disney Experience app, during the party that are exclusive to the event.
Here are the character locations from 2017’s Mickey Very Merry Christmas Party:
Main Street U.S.A.: Santa Claus and Mickey Mouse
Adventureland: Aladdin, Jasmine, Genie and Abu, Captain Jack Sparrow, Moana, and Peter Pan
Frontierland: The Country Bears
Liberty Square: Sandy Claws aka Jack Skellington
Fantasyland: Ariel & Prince Eric, Rapunzel & Flynn, Cinderella & Prince Charming, Belle, Pooh & Friends, Seven Dwarfs, Snow White & Prince, Aurora & Prince Phillip, Elena of Avalor, Minnie Mouse, Scrooge McDuck, Donald & Daisy, Santa Goofy, Mary Poppins & Bert, and Tiana & Naveen.
Tomorrowland: Nick Wilde & Judy Hopps
It’s important to know that these appearances can change at any time, so make sure you talk to the Cast Members around the entrances to the lines to make sure you are in the correct place.
Photo: Walt Disney World
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Event Merchandise
It wouldn’t be a special event at Walt Disney World without exclusive event merchandise that includes everything from ornaments to MagicBand, and this year the merchandise has a really fun retro vibe.
Here is where you can find this year’s merchandise:
Full Event Collection: Emporium (Main Street U.S.A.), Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe (Liberty Square), Big Top Souvenirs (Storybook Circus), & Mickey’s Star Traders (Tomorrowland)
Trading Pins: Emporium (Main Street U.S.A.), Frontier Trading Post (Frontierland), & Mickey’s Star Traders (Tomorrowland)
MagicBand: Frontier Trading Post (Frontierland) & Tomorrowland Light & Power Co. (Tomorrowland)
Walt Disney World Annual Passholder Merchandise: Emporium (Main Street U.S.A.) & Mickey’s Star Traders (Tomorrowland)
To purchase Walt Disney World Annual Passholder exclusive merchandise, you will need your Walt Disney World Annual Pass and photo id.
Exclusive Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party PhotoPass Pictures
This year the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ‘Magic Shots’ from their PhotoPass photographers are AWESOME!!!
They range from the addition to some of your favorite Disney characters to fun holiday themed videos.
The Disney Parks Blog has examples of all the shots you will find at this year’s party!
New this year at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
This year at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, guests will be able to experience these new offerings during the festivities:
Very Merry Morsels Await – Guests will find festive new treats at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, such as the Sugar Rush Jumbo Red Velvet Cupcake or the Vanellope Éclair with rainbow cereal topping.
Holiday Music Happening in Tomorrowland – A new a cappella group will sing holiday favorites in Tomorrowland during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Look for them in between performances of “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas”!
New Sweet-and-Savory Party Debuts on Town Square – Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party will debut this year as part of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. In this special experience, guests will discover a mix of sweet and savory treats including Tony’s famous meatballs, red velvet cupcakes and much more. The $99/person ticket also includes beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as special reserved viewing for Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.
Purchasing Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets
Photo: Walt Disney World – Ryan Wendler, photographer
Ticket pricing for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party varies by date and range in price from $95 to $125 plus tax for adults (ages 10 and up), $90 to $120 plus tax for children (ages 3-9), and children under 2 are free.
You will save some by purchasing your tickets in advance, and there are select dates that have discounts for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club owners.
As with any & every purchase, I only suggest buying tickets directly from Walt Disney World by using their website or by calling (407) 939-5277. Don’t take the chance that what you purchase is a lump of coal!
November 2018 Theme Park Events, Celebrations, and More!
We are coming off of a super busy October in the parks, but things aren’t slowing down in November 2018 as we kick off the holiday season and have some new and returning events to talk about!
Walt Disney World – November 2018
The holidays are kicking into high gear at the Walt Disney World Resort, but there will also be a celebration for Mickey’s 90th Birthday in November 2018!
Mickey’s 90th
Walt Disney Word Resort
It was all started by a mouse, and this year Mickey Mouse will be celebrating his 90th Birthday this November.
Walt Disney World will celebrate Mickey’s birthday from November 16-18 with special merchandise and food & beverage items as well as the chance for guests to celebrate at Magic Kingdom Park during the “Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!” Street Party, sing “Happy Birthday” along with the Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A., and join in a special birthday dance party at Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland.
Then in 2019, the World’s Biggest Mouse Party, a limited-time celebration of Mickey and Minnie, comes to the Walt Disney World Resort. While we don’t have a lot of details yet, we do know that other Disney parks around their world will celebrate with new nighttime spectaculars, merchandise, specialized food and beverage offerings, and more.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Walt Disney Word Resort
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a special hard ticketed event, meaning it’s not included with regular theme park admission, that takes place in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World on 22 select nights in November & December beginning November 8th.
During Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party guests have the chance to meet with some of their favorite Disney friends in their holiday finest, enjoy holiday entertainment, exclusive fireworks, a high-energy parade, complimentary treats throughout the park, and more topped off with a ‘snowfall’ on Main Street U.S.A.
We’ll be talking more about Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party soon, but keep in mind that you will save money by purchasing your tickets in advance.
Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
Walt Disney Word Resort
Discover a festival like no other, featuring the joyous holiday traditions of Epcot’s 11 World Showcase nations from November 18th through December 30th.
The Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, included with admission to Epcot, surrounds guests in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season, as celebrated by cultures near and far.
During the festival guests can enjoy stirring live musical productions, savor seasonal food & beverage specialties at the expanded Holiday Kitchens, and take a festive global tour as costumed performers bring time-honored traditions to life throughout World Showcase.
Candlelight Processional
Walt Disney Word Resort
The highlight of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays is the moving Candlelight Processional.
Each night, a celebrity narrator tells the biblical tale of a savior born to a virgin in Bethlehem. While gorgeous choral pieces are woven into the production as a 50-piece live orchestra and choir provide an inspirational backdrop with songs of hope and joy.
This dazzling presentation happens each night with multiple shows from November 22nd through December 30th at the American Gardens Theater, and does not require an additional ticket to attend.
Here is a look at the narrators and dates:
Chita Rivera – November 22 to 23, 2018
NEW! Helen Hunt – November 24 to 25, 2018
NEW! Alfonso Ribeiro – November 26 to 27, 2018
TBD – November 28 to December 2, 2018
Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney Word Resort
It is a Flurry of Holiday Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as their holly, jolly celebration is brimming with magical merriment!
Delight in festive shows, enchanting “snows”, holiday décor, Toy Story Land cheer, and so much more from November 8, 2018 through January 6, 2019.
You definitely won’t want to miss the colorful projections on The Hollywood Tower Hotel during Sunset Seasons Greetings. This year the show has new laser effects and “snow,” plussing the returning favorite that includes stories, songs, and holiday cheer brought to you by friends like Mickey, Minnie and Olaf.
But starting a few days earlier on November 6th, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM will end each day with a Santa-sized spectacular that is jam-packed with holiday music, fireworks, special effects, and state-of-the-art projections.
Holidays at Disney Springs
Walt Disney Word Resort
Disney Springs will once again be filled with Christmas cheer and fun in addition to their great shopping and dining experiences from November 8, 2018 until January 6, 2019.
I especially love the Holidays at Disney Springs, because parking and most of the activities are free!
During the celebration guests at Disney Springs will enjoy seasonal tasty treats and beverages, seasonal entertainment, a Christmas Tree trail featuring some of your favorite Disney character, a join Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt to help experiment 626 find his Ohana’s lost gifts, and even meet with the big guy himself at his Chalet.
Universal Orlando Resort– November 2018
Holidays are Universal as you celebrate Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit all the Whos down in Whoville with Grinchmas, and watch some of your favorite characters in the new Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s from November 17, 2018 until January 6, 2019.
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Universal Orlando Resort
The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle is back in November 2018. Revel in a dazzling projection of holiday spirit nightly in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
While in Hogsmeade, take in the festive décor, listen to the Frog Choir sing holiday themed songs and grab a Hot Butterbeer.
Then head over to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida to see more stunning holiday decorations throughout London and Diagon Alley.
And you won’t want to miss the talented Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees singing their holiday hits.
Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s
Universal Orlando Resort
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s is returning to the streets of Universal Studios Florida. This colorful parade fills the streets with music, confetti, and some of your favorite characters, including the Despicable Me Minions, Shrek and Fiona, King Julien, the Penguins of Madagascar, and more!
And, of course, there’s a visit from Santa as he rides high in the sky on a beautiful float, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.
Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Universal Orlando Resort
Grinchmas is returning to Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Hear the tale of the Grinch and help the Whos down in Whoville save Christmas during a wonderful live stage show. Sing along to all your favorite songs and get into the Grinchmas spirit.
You can even start your morning off with breakfast with the Grinch himself (reservations required). Then stroll through Seuss Landing, all decked out for Christmas by the bustling Whos as they get their final preparations in order for Christmas.
Mannheim Steamroller
Universal Orlando Resort
Fan-favorite Mannheim Steamroller will also be returning to perform live on the Music Plaza Stage. Their performances will take place on select night during the months of November and December.
SeaWorld Orlando– November 2018
In November 2018, the event lineup at SeaWorld Orlando offers something for everybody with three unique opportunities to add value to a visit to the park and events taking place every Saturday and Sunday.
Jack Hanna Weekend
SeaWorld Orlando
World-renowned animal expert “Jungle Jack” Hanna is back for another weekend of excitement and storytelling at SeaWorld Orlando on November 3rd and 4th. The internationally-known conservationist, author, television personality and lifelong adventurer will share animal facts and his travel tales during captivating and interactive presentations at 1pm & 3pm inside the Nautilus Theater.
In addition to shows included with park admission, SeaWorld will have several additional opportunities for guests to personally interact with Jack Hanna at the park including meet-and-greets, autograph signings and exclusive dining packages.
Jack Hanna Reserved Show Seating (Saturday and Sunday November 3 – 4) – Save time and enjoy one of the best seats in the house for Jack Hanna. Prepare for Jack to entertain with animal facts, stories and answers to questions from you. Pricing begins at $20 per person and Pass Members receive a special discount.
Up-Close Dining at Shamu Stadium Jack Hanna Dinner (Saturday, November3rd) – Enjoy a delicious dinner and mingle with Jack Hanna at Up-Close Dining at Shamu Stadium. The package includes a buffet dinner and a meet-and-greet with Jack Hanna. Dinner is at 5pm. Pricing begins at $49 per person. Pass Members receive a special discount on all dining package purchases.
Craft Beer Festival
SeaWorld Orlando
Calling all beer connoisseurs, SeaWorld Orlando has a brand-new festival worth raising your glass over. The SeaWorld Craft Beer Festival will feature 100+ brews on draft at 18 locations around the park on from breweries across the state of Florida, plus a few domestic and international craft favorites on November 3rd, 4th, 10th, and 11th.
Park guests can enjoy brews from local breweries such as Orlando Brewing Company, Crooked Can, and Dead Lizard Brewing. In addition, the event will also feature a variety of beverages from Florida based craft breweries in Tampa, Gainesville, Jacksonville, and St. Petersburg.
The festival will also feature 20+ unique food items designed to perfectly pair with the event brew selection. Enjoy unique renditions of some bar food staples as well as a few new concepts designed to complement the festival’s draft beer selection. Some festival exclusive items include:
Infused Bacon Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese – Buttery Pretzel Bites Infused with Bacon and Smothered in Beer Cheese
BBQ Brisket Mac-n-Cheese – Jalapeño Cheddar Pepper Jack Cheese Sauce and BBQ Brisket Topped with Spiked BBQ Sauce and a Parmesan Garlic Crust
Bison Slider- Served with Lager Bacon Onion Jam and Minorcan Mustard
Jumbo Chicken Wings – Chicken Wings Tossed in a Pilsner Buffalo Sauce Served with Tangy Slaw
Fish and Chips- Traditional Fish and Chips with Beer Battered Haddock and Sea Salt Fries
Chorizo Potato Skins – Topped with Queso Fresco, Onions, Cilantro, and Avocado Crema
Candied Bacon Lollipops – Sweet and Savory Candied Bacon Served on a Wood Skewer
Buffalo Burger Quesadilla – Pepper Jack Cheddar Cheese Blend, Balsamic Onions, Baby Arugula, Crème Fraiche, and Roasted Tomato Salsa
Guests looking to taste their way around the Florida craft beer scene can take advantage of SeaWorld’s sampling packages designed for the most adventurous beer fans.
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is where holiday traditions are made, with delicious food, stunning live shows, delightful holiday shopping and joyous entertainment.
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration brings together family fun and holiday traditions on select nights from November 17 – December 31, 2018 and is included with park admission.
I am really excited for the official start of the holiday season in the parks, and can’t wait to share all the latest news and reviews of the celebrations with you.
#TalkoTuesday: How To Save Money at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an annual special after-hours and separately ticketed event that happens on select nights at the Magic Kingdom from August to October.
During Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party transforms the Magic Kingdom into a family-friendly Halloween party with exclusive entertainment, parades, characters, fireworks, treats (but not tricks), shopping, and more while still being able to enjoy most of the park’s attractions with shorter lines.
All of this fun does however come with a price tag, and one of my most asked questions over the years is how families can save money at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
So for today’s inaugural #TalkoTuesday I thought I would tackle this question!
#TalkoTuesday: How To Save Money at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
waltdisneyworld.com
Choose your Date Wisely: Tickets to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party vary in price by date, so use the interactive calendar to find the best date and deal for your family
Purchase Your Tickets Online in Advance: This tip is actually what my Dad would call a ‘twofer’, because not only will you save $10 on your tickets compared to the day-of purchase price when you buy at least a day in advance but you’ll also not waste any time you could be partying it up waiting in line to purchase your ticket at the Ticket and Transportation Center.
Don’t Be Tardy To The Party: While Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party OFFICIALLY begins at 7pm, guests with party tickets can arrive as early as 4pm to receive their party wristband to enjoy time in the Magic Kingdom before the fun begins. This is a great time to ride attractions that are not open during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, to get some pre-party pictures, and to make a game plan for your evening in the park.
Make Sure To Eat Before You Arrive: Not all dining locations in the Magic Kingdom are open during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and you won’t want to dedicate too much of your time to finding food during the party, so my best advice is to eat a large lunch later in the afternoon.
BYOG – Bring Your Own Glow: When night falls and the glowing toy carts come out with a median price of $20 per item, be prepared by bringing your own glow in the dark necklaces and light up toys. I try to pick them up every time I go to the Dollar Tree or to Five Below.
shopdisney.com
Think outside the Costume Box: Let’s be real here…Most Halloween costumes aren’t made for the Florida heat as they usually have long sleeves and many layers. When Zoe was little we would buy a ‘fancy’ nightgown for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party from The Disney Store, because they were much lighter in weight and meant that we could put her right to bed when we got home instead of changing her out of her costume.
Be Prepared: A few Halloween’s ago, I wrote a detailed blog post with what I pack for a night at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party to cut down on unnecessary purchases…you should check it out!
Candy Hack: This one requires some planning, but I promise you it’s worth it! When you are packing your Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party bag, make sure you pack a gallon size zip top bag for each person attending. As you start filling up your provided candy bag, put some of your collected candy in your packed zip top bag. Not only will this cut down on little ones spilling candy, but you’ll find that you’ll be able to carry more candy easily.
**These are older ones I have, but LOVE them and thought they were perfect for the post**
Budget Using Disney Gift Cards: One easy way to budget for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is to buy a Disney Gift Card, and every week add a little bit more by following the directions on the back of the gift card. There are also several ways to save money on purchasing a Disney Gift Card…but more on that soon!
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While the summers in the theme parks of Central Florida may bring images of crazy crowds to your mind, for me this summer was full of amazing special events and offers.
Today I thought I would take a moment to talk about the five that I will miss the most when summer ends in just a few short weeks.
Theme Parks Thoughts: Five Things I Will Miss When Summer Ends
SeaWorld Orlando
Free Beer
Photo: Walt Disney World
SeaWorld Orlando is offering free beer to park guests ages 21 and up through September 2, 2018.
Guests can visit Mama’s Pretzel Kitchen Patio and receive up to two complimentary 7-ounce beers per visit from 10:30 a.m. to one hour before park close.
The park will rotate beer offerings throughout the summer starting off with SeaWorld’s very own Mako Red Ale. Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Light, Yuengling, and more will also be featured throughout the summer.
Walt Disney World
Incredible Tomorrowland Expo at Magic Kingdom
Photo: Walt Disney World
Until September 3 Disney•Pixar Super Heroes will take over Tomorrowland, as part of an Incredible Tomorrowland Expo that celebrates “all things super.”
Meet Mr. Incredible, Frozone, and other supers including Edna Mode for the first time from Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and upcoming “Incredibles 2.
Tomorrowland is also be decked out with Incredibles décor and sounds from the film, and it would be a celebration without a dance party on the Rocket Tower Stage.
Also, don’t forget to take time to spend time with the ‘Cosplay Supers’ who are attending the Tomorrowland Expo!
The Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live! Concert Series at Epcot
Photo: Walt Disney World – David Roark, photographer
Star-Lord and Gamora from “Guardians of the Galaxy” host a show that takes a musical journey through the cosmos in The Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live! concert series.
The show features tunes from Star-Lord’s Awesome Mixtapes, the soundtrack from the two movies.
The show is super high energy, full of tons of fun, and is performed five times daily through August 19th.
Disney H20 Glow Party Nights
Photo: Walt Disney World
When the sun goes down, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon transforms on select evenings until August 11 into a massive glow party from 8 pm until 11 pm.
Guests can enjoy special entertainment, Disney PIXAR character meet and greets, exclusive menu items and beverages, and tons of glow-in-the-dark fun.
This is an especially awesome way to visit Typhoon Lagoon, because the lines are really short with fantastically fun entertainment and delightful menu & bar additions. Plus the event gets extra bonus points for not having to worry about sunscreen!
Tickets $55 per person plus tax for adults and $50 per person plus tax for children ages 3-9. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (407) 939-1872.
Disney Springs
Brews and BBQ Trail
Photo: Walt Disney World
Until September 3, you can take a culinary exploration of Brews and BBQ at Disney Springs.
Discover a whole new host of tasty and unique food and beverage pairings as you stroll through the many restaurants and shops throughout the area to visit the 23 different locations across Disney Springs.
And what’s more? For guests ages 21 and older, each of these dishes can be paired with a crisp, craft-brewed beer!
To make the most of your visit, make sure to pick up a map of the participating restaurants and kiosks at the Disney Springs Welcome Center, located in Town Center.
You can find the menus for all the stops on my post over on icFlorida.com!
With every ending comes a new beginning, and tomorrow I will be sharing what I can’t wait to experience this Fall in the theme parks of Central Florida!
This year Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be celebrating its 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22, with more wild adventures than ever before as they prepare for an incredible summer filled with all-new events and experiences at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Commemorating the milestone year, the 500-acre adventure park will offer animal encounters, family-friendly activities, specialty desserts and more during an expanded Party for the Planet celebration from April 22-May 5, 2018.
Over the two-week “Party for the Planet celebration, guests can attend conservation talks by animal-care experts and participate in enhanced interactions with some of the more than 2,000 animals that make their home at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited park.
Walt Disney World
Rafiki’s Planet Watch will take center stage for the year-long 20th anniversary. It’s home to fun educational exhibits and activities that help create awareness of animal issues. During the 20th anniversary, Rafiki’s Planet Watch will offer backstage experiences with experts where guests can learn about animal nutrition, visit the veterinary hospital and hear how Disney promotes global wildlife conservation.
Guests can also commemorate their visits to the theme park with special photo opportunities. They can step into an oversized picture frame celebrating the park’s 20th anniversary. Other photo frames support Disney’s “Reverse the Decline,” an initiative created to help protect 10 threatened animal species. One recent success of the program was the birth of two critically endangered Sumatran Tiger Cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Just for kids is the chance to earn a limited-edition badge as part of the Wilderness Explorer program. The badge is one of many that youngsters can earn by completing fun activities throughout the park.
Party for the Planet will also include six different Tiffins Talks – themed dinners hosted by animal experts at Tiffins, the theme park’s signature, full-service restaurant. Watch the Disney Parks Blog for more information.
The 20th anniversary fun also includes a commemorative adventure guide, limited-edition merchandise, and a special-edition print created by renowned Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde.
He will be available on April 22 from 1-4 p.m. to sign prints at Discovery Trading Company. Quantities are limited. For more information on Party for the Planet, visit disneyworld.com/PartyforthePlanet.
Here are other experiences and adventures rolling out in 2018 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
Walt Disney World
April 22 will mark the debut of a brand-new show, UP! A Great Bird Adventure featuring Russell and Dug from the Disney•Pixar animated comedy-adventure film “UP.” The show will give guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his fuzzy friend Dug in a new adventure that includes encounters with exotic birds from around the world. This free-flying show will be performed multiple times daily.
A “dino-tastic” celebration with Donald and his friends will also premiere Memorial Day weekend in DinoLand, U.S.A. This dinosaur-themed party celebrates Donald Duck’s discovery that his bird ancestors were actually dinosaurs. DinoLand U.S.A. will feature colorful new décor and playful character greetings with rarely seen pals like Scrooge McDuck, Launchpad McQuack and more. A DJ-powered dance party will mix tunes from the truck-o-saurus stage, capping the nighttime festivities.
Memorial Day 2018 commemorates the one-year anniversary of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Here, travelers are transported to a mystical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and breathtaking new experiences. Inspired by the blockbuster film, AVATAR, the epic land invites guests to explore a glowing landscape, encounter a larger-than-life Na’vi Shaman of Songs and soar on the back of a banshee.
If you missed it, earlier today on Good Morning America the Walt Disney World Resort Announced that the much awaited Toy Story Land will open on June 30, 2018 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
In preparation for the opening, let’s look at what we know about the expansion!
The Story
Walt Disney World
When guests enter Toy Story Land they will ‘shrink’ down to the size of a toy so they can step into the whimsical and beloved world of PIXAR Animation Studios’ blockbuster franchise set in Andy’s backyard.
Looking around the highly intricate and themed land, guests will notice that all of the buildings are built from other toys and boxes with familiar faces from the Toy Story Franchise.
The Attractions
Walt Disney World
Once inside of Toy Story Land, guests will find that there are two new attractions that have been developed just for this new area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios as well as a fan-favorite that has a few new touches.
Slinky Dog Dash
Walt Disney World
Slinky Dog Dash is a family coaster themed as if Andy built it in his backyard using his Mega Coaster Play Kit and some of his other favorite toys.
The attraction’s ride vehicles, inspired by the character of Slinky in the film, will send riders dipping, dodging and dashing around turns and drops Andy has created to stretch Slinky’s coils to the max.
Alien Swirling Saucers
Walt Disney World
Alien Swirling Saucers, is designed as a toy play set that Andy got from Pizza Planet, inspired by the first “Toy Story” film.
In the attraction guests will step into a flying saucer that will rotate around the toy planets and satellites as part of the game while swirling to the beat of fun “Space Jazz” music and lighting developed just for this experiencewhile “The Claw” looms ominously overhead.
Toy Story Mania
Toy Story Mania is an absolute fan-favorite at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and if you haven’t been lucky enough to score a FastPass+ it is worth the wait!
On the attraction guests step inside of Andy’s room which is littered with classic toys and fun details to board an early-20th-century-inspired Carnival Ride Tram donning 3D glasses & armed with a spring-action shooter to take on five unique carnival games.
The Restaurant
Walt Disney World
Toy Story Land will ‘shrink’ guests to the size of a toy so they can step into the whimsical and beloved world of Pixar Animation Studios’ blockbuster franchise set in Andy’s backyard, and in keeping with the Land’s theming Woody’s Lunch Box has been created by Andy using his lunch box and thermos.
If you look closely at the rendering, you can see some of Andy’s favorite toys, items from his lunch, and maybe even a few green army man on a nearby lookout tower watching for Andy’s return.
“We can’t wait for our guests to experience Toy Story Land, and the new quick-service window located within the land will surely delight hungry toys and people alike,” said Carlos Castro, vice president of Disney Corporate Alliances.
While we don’t have a complete menu for the location yet, we know that it will serve “tasty meals and old-fashioned soda floats” and is the first in a multi-year strategic alliance with Mini Babybel, which has also been named the Official Snack Cheese of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, the Disneyland Resort in California, and Disney Cruise Line.
“At Bel Brands USA, we are all about sharing smiles and we are delighted to bring that to life through our alliance with Disney,” said Francis Perrin, chief marketing officer of Bel Brands USA, makers of Mini Babybel cheese. “We believe Mini Babybel makes snack time an adventure in deliciousness for the whole family every day and now we can share that fun and great taste with even more families as they enjoy adventures of their own at Disney Parks.”
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