The Disney Springs Art Walk has been one of my favorite things to explore while shopping and dining, especially because it continues to grow vibrantly, flourishing with murals from talented artists from near and far.
This month is no exception, as two new artists have brought their vibrant and meaningful creations to the Art Walk.
Check out the video below to go behind the scenes and learn about the inspiration for their art.
Inspired by their strong Hispanic roots and just in time for Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month, artists Leo Gómez and Don Rimx boldly expressed pride for their culture, telling unique stories with their Art Walk pieces.
With over 3,000 murals spanning over five continents, Kobra has a distinguished style with unique techniques involving airbrush and spray paint.
His newest piece will be a Disney-inspired creation that, like other Disney Springs Art Walk murals, will be a must-see for Walt Disney World Resort guests.
I cannot wait to see and share more about his creation at one of my favorite places on property!
Halloween fun can be found On the Go in the Parks October 7-9, 2022!!! The countdown to the big day is on, but you don’t have to wait to experience spooky spectaculars!
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, the world’s premier Halloween event, is now open and will run for a record-breaking 43 select nights through October 31.
This year’s chilling lineup unleashes top names in horror and pop culture alongside a host of original abominations that spawn disturbing twists on Halloween traditions in 10 eerily immersive haunted houses and five scare zones – each filled with hordes of menacing creatures.
And when guests need a break from the scares, they can enjoy two outrageous live shows, sink their teeth into a “killer” menu of uniquely themed food and beverage, shop the latest merchandise in a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and enjoy Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting attractions.
Want to be On the Go in the Parks at Halloween Horror Nights? Find ticket information here.
Daily after sunset in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade
The Dark Arts will take over the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure daily until October 31, 2022.
Guests can experience the return of Death Eaters and the breathtaking experience of “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” – a sinister spectacle of state-of-the-art projection mapping, special effects, lighting, and more that brings awe-inspiring moments and creatures from the Harry Potter films to life on the majestic Hogwarts castle.
Guests can also shop new Dark Arts-themed merchandise featuring the Dark Mark during their visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including mugs, hats, lanyards, tees – and even a Death Eater mask.
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.
The festival happens daily and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is your chance to catch some great concerts at the American Gardens Theater at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:00 pm. This weekend’s concerts include:
October 7-8: Mark Wills
October 9-10: 38 Special
Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, live entertainment, family activities, and more.
SeaWorld Orlando is excited to celebrate Halloween with families and children of all ages once again at this year’s Halloween Spooktacular.
Kids will love collecting ghoulish goodies as they explore SeaWorld Orlando’s fun-filled trick-or-treating trail and meet colorful characters along the way. The days will also be full of other immersive and family-friendly activities to get the whole family into the Halloween spirit.
This daytime event takes place every Saturday and Sunday starting September 17 and extends to Friday through Sunday from October 7 through the day of Halloween. SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular is included with park admission.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is coming back with vengeance this year at SeaWorld Orlando with all-new houses, scare zones, shows, and bars that will make guests scream in fright.
They can deepen the thrill with a chilling nighttime ride on Mako, Manta, Infinity Falls, or the park’s newest thrill ride, Ice Breaker.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando features more haunted houses, scare zones, coasters, and unexpected frights than the Inaugural Fear—making it a can’t-miss experience for haunt fans and thrill-seekers alike.
The all-new Busch Gardens Spooktacular invites guests to step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training!
A costume parade, storytime, and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience that is included with admission to the park.
Busch Gardens Spooktacular will be casting magical spells daily until October 30, 2022, from 12 – 4 p.m. on the Festival Walkway.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns in full force, taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows, and more.
Unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level, and once you’re in, there’s nothing to fear but everything.
Howl-O-Scream 2022 is a separately-ticketed night event that takes place on select evenings until October 31, 2022.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an after-hours, separately ticketed event at the Magic Kingdom that is full of spirited fun with your favorite Disney Characters.
Throughout the evening, guests can:
Watch 3 sinister sisters bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park during the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular
Witness Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters and hosted by Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Boogie down at the Disney Junior Jam at Storybook Circus—featuring some favorite friends from Disney Junior shows. It’s perfect for young partygoers!
See some beloved Disney Characters during Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade.
Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.
Revel in the extraordinarily enchanting atmosphere of Magic Kingdom park during this limited-capacity event.
If you are a Disney fanatic who loves Halloween, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a must if you are On the Go in the Parks!!!
Halloween at LEGOLAND Florida will be filled with even more monstrous this fall when Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party begins in September!
Families will be screaming in excitement as they enjoy more candy, more LEGO characters, and more spell-binding surprises than ever, with 12 nights of Halloween fun – each Saturday and Sunday through October 30.
This Halloween spectacular will bewitch families with amazing NEW experiences, live shows, spooky LEGO decorations, and Monster mischief around every corner – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.
Fall fun abounds On the Go in the Parks September 30 to October 2, 2022, as EPCOT celebrates its 40th anniversary and the Magic Kingdom celebrates its 51st Anniversary.
On the Go in the Parks: September 30-October 2, 2022
Kent Phillips, Photographer
On October 1st, EPCOT will celebrate its 40th anniversary with special treats around the park, commemorative merchandise, and more!
To all who come to the place of joy, hope, and friendship.
Welcome
EPCOT is inspired by Walt Disney’s creative vision. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, wonders of enterprise and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for us all.
May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire, and above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man’s ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, the world’s premier Halloween event, is now open and will run for a record-breaking 43 select nights through October 31.
This year’s chilling lineup unleashes top names in horror and pop culture alongside a host of original abominations that spawn disturbing twists on Halloween traditions in 10 eerily immersive haunted houses and five scare zones – each filled with hordes of menacing creatures.
And when guests need a break from the scares, they can enjoy two outrageous live shows, sink their teeth into a “killer” menu of uniquely themed food and beverage, shop the latest merchandise in a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and enjoy Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting attractions.
Want to be On the Go in the Parks at Halloween Horror Nights? Find ticket information here.
Daily after sunset in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade
The Dark Arts will take over the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure daily until October 31, 2022.
Guests can experience the return of Death Eaters and the breathtaking experience of “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” – a sinister spectacle of state-of-the-art projection mapping, special effects, lighting, and more that brings awe-inspiring moments and creatures from the Harry Potter films to life on the majestic Hogwarts castle.
Guests can also shop new Dark Arts-themed merchandise featuring the Dark Mark during their visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including mugs, hats, lanyards, tees – and even a Death Eater mask.
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.
The festival happens daily and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is your chance to catch some great concerts at the American Gardens Theater at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:00 pm. This weekend’s concerts include:
Stokley – NEW! September 30 and October 1
Shelia E. October 2 and 3
Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, live entertainment, family activities, and more.
SeaWorld Orlando is excited to celebrate Halloween with families and children of all ages once again at this year’s Halloween Spooktacular.
Kids will love collecting ghoulish goodies as they explore SeaWorld Orlando’s fun-filled trick-or-treating trail and meet colorful characters along the way. The days will also be full of other immersive and family-friendly activities to get the whole family into the Halloween spirit.
This daytime event takes place every Saturday and Sunday starting September 17 and extends to Friday through Sunday from October 7 through the day of Halloween. SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular is included with park admission.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is coming back with vengeance this year at SeaWorld Orlando with all-new houses, scare zones, shows, and bars that will make guests scream in fright.
They can deepen the thrill with a chilling nighttime ride on Mako, Manta, Infinity Falls, or the park’s newest thrill ride, Ice Breaker.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando features more haunted houses, scare zones, coasters, and unexpected frights than the Inaugural Fear—making it a can’t-miss experience for haunt fans and thrill-seekers alike.
The all-new Busch Gardens Spooktacular invites guests to step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training!
A costume parade, storytime, and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience that is included with admission to the park.
Busch Gardens Spooktacular will be casting magical spells daily until October 30, 2022, from 12 – 4 p.m. on the Festival Walkway.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns in full force, taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows, and more.
Unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level, and once you’re in, there’s nothing to fear but everything.
Howl-O-Scream 2022 is a separately-ticketed night event that takes place on select evenings until October 31, 2022.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an after-hours, separately ticketed event at the Magic Kingdom that is full of spirited fun with your favorite Disney Characters.
Throughout the evening, guests can:
Watch 3 sinister sisters bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park during the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular
Witness Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters and hosted by Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Boogie down at the Disney Junior Jam at Storybook Circus—featuring some favorite friends from Disney Junior shows. It’s perfect for young partygoers!
See some beloved Disney Characters during Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade.
Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.
Revel in the extraordinarily enchanting atmosphere of Magic Kingdom park during this limited-capacity event.
If you are a Disney fanatic who loves Halloween, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a must if you are On the Go in the Parks!!!
Halloween at LEGOLAND Florida will be filled with even more monstrous this fall when Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party begins in September!
Families will be screaming in excitement as they enjoy more candy, more LEGO characters, and more spell-binding surprises than ever, with 12 nights of Halloween fun – each Saturday and Sunday through October 30.
This Halloween spectacular will bewitch families with amazing NEW experiences, live shows, spooky LEGO decorations, and Monster mischief around every corner – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.
What better way to celebrate the upcoming 40th anniversary of EPCOT, my favorite park, than by looking back at the park’s milestones over the years!!!
On October 1, 1982, Walt Disney World Resort invited guests to imagine what life would be like in the 21st century with the opening of the EPCOT Center.
This first-of-its-kind theme park focused on showcasing ideas and technologies the world had never seen before.
May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire and, above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man’s ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.” – Official Dedication, October 24, 1982
With the sentiment above, Disney Chairman and CEO Card Walker carried on Walt Disney’s legacy at the park’s official dedication. A month-long celebration introduced the park’s five Future World pavilions and nine World Showcase pavilions to guests from around the world.
The formal grand opening was held over three days, with the theme park’s official dedication taking place on Oct. 24, 1982.
On Oct. 1, 1982, EPCOT officially opened at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney)
Now known as EPCOT, the park inspires curiosity, imagination, and wonder through its international festivals, innovative attractions, and cultural experiences.
Home to four unified neighborhoods – World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery, and World Showcase – the park continues to evolve with the biggest transformation in its history underway.
As Walt Disney once said, EPCOT will “always be in a state of becoming,” and the park is set to enter its next 40 years with all-new ways for guests to experience the magic of possibility.
Here’s a look at some of the milestones in the 40-year history of EPCOT:
1965
November 15 – Walt Disney and his brother Roy publicly announce plans for Walt Disney World Resort in a press conference held in downtown Orlando, Fla.
1966
October 27 – Walt Disney records a film outlining plans for the Florida Project, including details for Walt Disney World Resort and the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow (EPCOT).
1978
Card Walker, President, and CEO of Walt Disney Productions announces plans for EPCOT at the International Chamber of Commerce and presents concepts to President Jimmy Carter, the ICC’s keynote speaker.
In 1981, construction on EPCOT continued at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The new theme park officially opened on Oct. 1, 1982. (Disney)
1979
October 1 – After years of planning, construction begins on EPCOT.
On Oct. 1, 1982, EPCOT officially opened at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney)
1982
September 24 – Walt Disney World Cast Members and their families and friends are among the first to experience the new theme park before it opens to the public. Special preview days give Cast Members a sense of pride and help ensure the park is ready for guests.
October 1 – EPCOT opens with five Future World pavilions – Spaceship Earth, Universe of Energy, World of Motion, Journey Into Imagination, and The Land – and nine World Showcase pavilions representing Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, United Kingdom, and the United States.
“Carnival de Lumiere” debuts as the theme park’s first nightly fireworks show, replaced in 1983 with “A New World Fantasy” and in 1984 by “Laserphonic Fantasy.”
October 24 – EPCOT is officially dedicated by Card Walker, Chairman, and CEO of Walt Disney Productions.
A new four-mile extension of the Walt Disney World Monorail System opens, extending from the Ticket and Transportation Center to EPCOT.
D23
1983
October 1 – On the park’s one-year anniversary, Horizons (now MISSION: Space) makes its debut in Future World. Featuring a first-of-its-kind ride system, the attraction gives guests a glimpse of what life might be like in the future.
March 5 – The ride-through attraction Journey into Imagination (now Journey into Imagination with Figment) opens.
1984
September 7 – EPCOT World Showcase expands with the opening of the Morocco pavilion.
June 3 – The France pavilion in World Showcase opens its second signature restaurant, Bistro de Paris.
1985
September 24 – Lotus Blossom Café opens, the first of two new restaurants in the China pavilion.
October 23 – The China pavilion’s table-service restaurant Nine Dragons Restaurant begins serving guests.
Mickey Mouse scuba dives at The Living Seas in 1986 at EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney)
1986
January 15 – The Living Seas (now The Seas with Nemo & Friends) opens. The pavilion’s centerpiece is a 5.7-million-gallon aquarium – the world’s largest at the time – home to more than 200 species of marine life.
1987
The EPCOT Daredevil Circus Spectacular opens in Future World. “The Greatest Show in Space” featured a variety of daredevil circus acts performed in and above the CommuniCore area of the park.
1988
January 30 – “IllumiNations,” a new nighttime spectacular, premieres. The new show incorporated the World Showcase pavilions with rim lighting and special projection effects for the first time.
June 3 – World Showcase expands with the opening of theNorway pavilion that introduces Maelstrom, where guests board Viking boats to discover the country’s natural beauty, traditions, and modern cities.
1989
October 19 – Wonders of Life pavilion opens in Future World. Beneath a giant gold dome, three humorous attractions offer a fun look at health and fitness. The pavilion includes state-of-the-art, hands-on activities, live comedy shows, and a fast-casual restaurant.
Yacht Club Gazebo
1990
November – The first phase of the EPCOT Resort Area opens with the debut of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort (November 5) and Disney’s Beach Club Resort (November 19). The following year brings Walt Disney World Swan Hotel (January 13) and the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel (June 4). All within walking distance of the theme park, the collection of resorts significantly expands lodging and convention options.
Topiaries celebrate the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival in 1997 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney)
1994
April 29 – The inaugural EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival debuts.
July 1 – Innoventions pavilion replaces Communicore, featuring interactive exhibits and demonstrations of emerging technologies.
November 21 – “Honey, I Shrunk the Audience,” a lively interactive 3-D adventure, opens in the Journey Into Imagination pavilion.
November 25 – The Candlelight Processional moves to EPCOT from Magic Kingdom, where it had been presented since 1971. With the move to America Gardens Theater, the show was able to expand to multiple nightly performances throughout the holiday season.
1995
January 21 – “Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable” debuts in The Land. The 20-minute, 70mm film features Simba, Timon, and Pumba in a story about the importance of respect for the natural environment.
September 15 – Ellen’s Energy Adventure debuts, bringing a new storyline and humor to what was previously Universe of Energy.
1996
Sept. 28 – The first annual EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival makes its debut.
Alain Boniec, Photographer
1999
March 17 – Test Track opens in Future World. The park’s first thrill attraction takes guests on exhilarating twists and turns in a test vehicle.
October 1 – TheMillennium Celebration begins at EPCOT. The 15-month event marks the debut of the popular nighttime spectacular, “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which will run for 20 years. Also new is Millennium Village – celebrating the cultural achievements of 25 countries – and the Tapestry of Nations parade. The celebration also brings pin trading to the forefront for Disney collectors everywhere.
2000
October 1 – The Art of Disney shop opens in Future World, selling Disney artwork, prints, and other collectibles.
2003
August 15 – Mission: SPACE opens in Future World. The attraction takes guests on a simulated training spaceflight to Mars.
2004
November 16 – Turtle Talk with Crush opens in The Living Seas. The first-of-its-kind attraction enables Crush from Disney-Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” to talk with guests as he learns about humans and shares his stories of life in the ocean.
2005
May 5 – Soarin’ opens in The Land pavilion, taking guests on a breathtaking aerial adventure over iconic California locations.
2006
October 1 – “The Year of a Million Dreams” begins. Across EPCOT and the other Walt Disney World theme parks, Dream Squads surprise thousands of guests with an array of prizes, from special attraction access and merchandise to Disney vacations.
November 26 – The Living Seas pavilion is transformed to become The Seas with Nemo and Friends pavilion. Its official dedication will take place on January 24, 2007.
2007
April 6 – Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros opens inside the Mexico pavilion. A reimagining of the pavilion’s opening-day boat ride, El Río del Tiempo (River of Time), the updated attraction features Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Pistoles Panchito from Walt Disney’s 1942 film “Saludos Amigos.”
April 25 – The Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future exhibit opens at Spaceship Earth. The series of exhibits showcase advances in medicine, technology, and energy management.
Oct. 1 – The 25th anniversary of EPCOT is marked by a rededication ceremony and a gallery showcasing memorabilia from the park’s history.
2008
February 15 – Spaceship Earth reopens with an expanded storyline after extensive renovations. The new narration follows the history of human innovation from prehistoric times to the 21st century.
2009
January 28 – Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure interactive attraction opens. Guests transform into secret agents as part of Team Possible to save the world via the Disney Play! App on mobile devices. The scavenger hunt-style experience interacted with seven World Showcase pavilions.
2011
April 4 – House of Good Fortune merchandise location opens in the China pavilion. The new shop sells authentic Chinese merchandise.
2012
June 23 – Phineas & Ferb: Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure opens, replacing Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure. The new quest takes guests on an adventure with Agent P to solve clues and thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s evil plots.
December 6 – Test Track – Presented by Chevrolet, re-opens. The re-imagined attraction allows guests to design their own vehicles before setting off on a thrilling test drive.
2013
May 30 – L’Artisan des Glaces Ice Cream shop opens in the France pavilion. The shop makes its own ice cream.
2014
January 20 – Spice Road Table opens in the Morocco pavilion. Inspired by the outdoor cafés throughout the Mediterranean, the restaurant serves small plates, specialty wines, and aperitifs from the region.
Frozen Ever After
2016
June 17 – Soarin’ Around the World debuts in The Land pavilion. The reimagined attraction takes guests on a flight above many of the world’s natural and man-made wonders.
June 21 – Frozen Ever After opens in the Norway pavilion, replacing Maelstrom. The attraction takes guests on a boat ride through the kingdom of Arendelle. Along with the ride-through attraction, Royal Sommerhus opens, allowing Queen Elsa and Princess Anna to meet with guests inside a charming cabin.
New holiday experiences are found across the theme park as part of what’s now the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.
2018
January 12 – The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts debuts, expanding the park’s festival offerings to all four seasons.
2019
August 25 – The historic multi-year transformation of EPCOT is announced at D23 Expo 2019.
October 1 – “EPCOT Forever” nighttime spectacular debuts at World Showcase Lagoon, replacing “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.”
October 1 – Walt Disney Imagineering presents the EPCOT Experience opens, offering a preview of attractions coming as part of the theme park’s multiyear transformation.
July 5 – Takumi-Tei opens in the Japan pavilion. The signature dining table-service restaurant specializes in wagyu beef, sushi, and signature cocktails.
2020
January 17 – Three new films debut around World Showcase. “Awesome Planet” debuts in the Harvest Theater inside The Land pavilion. The new film showcases the beauty and diversity of our planet. “Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along” premieres in Palais du Cinema inside the France pavilion. The new film offers a new twist on the classic Disney movie. “Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360” debuts at the Canada pavilion, updating the O Canada! Circle-Vision 360 film.
February 19 – Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts and Barbecue opens at The American Adventure pavilion. The fast-casual restaurant serves classic American backyard barbecue and home-style craft brews.
December 22 – A transformation of the main entrance is completed with the unveiling of a new fountain, inspired by one that originally debuted with the theme park’s 1982 opening.
2021
September 15 – Creations Shop opens in World Celebration. The new flagship store features unique merchandise dedicated to EPCOT and other Walt Disney World collectibles.
September 20 – Space 220 opens in the Mission: SPACE pavilion. The new restaurant gives guests the chance to enjoy a meal among the stars after a simulated flight 220 miles above the Earth’s surface.
October 1 – Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary celebration begins with new experiences across all four theme parks. In honor of the celebration, Spaceship Earth transforms into a spectacular Beacon of Magic at night, illuminating the skies with brilliant colors. As part of the park transformation, three new neighborhoods – World Celebration, World Discovery and World Nature – join World Showcase as the geographic areas that make up EPCOT.
October 1 – The expanded France pavilion opens with Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a new ride-through 4D experience inspired by Disney-Pixar’s “Ratatouille.” A new restaurant, La Crêperie de Paris, offers guests a delicious taste of French cuisine.
October 1 – “Harmonious,” a new nighttime spectacular, debuts with the 50th Anniversary celebration. The show celebrates how Disney music inspires people worldwide and features a culturally diverse soundtrack coordinated with spectacular visuals and fireworks.
2022
April 27 – Connections Café and Eatery opens in World Celebration, offering guests a new selection of internationally-inspired cuisine.
May 27 – Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opens in the Wonders of Xandar pavilion. The family thrill coaster features myriad firsts, including the first-ever reverse launch on a Disney coaster and ride vehicles that rotate 360 degrees. It’s also one of the world’s largest fully enclosed coasters.
October 1 – Walt Disney World Resort celebrates the 40th anniversary of EPCOT as the park continues its multi-year transformation.
Fall fun abounds On the Go in the Parks September 23-25, 2022, as Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party at LEGOLAND Florida joins the Halloween festivities in the theme parks of Central Florida.
Halloween at LEGOLAND Florida will be filled with even more monstrous this fall when Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party begins in September!
Families will be screaming in excitement as they enjoy more candy, more LEGO characters, and more spell-binding surprises than ever, with 12 nights of Halloween fun – each Saturday and Sunday through October 30.
This Halloween spectacular will bewitch families with amazing NEW experiences, live shows, spooky LEGO decorations, and Monster mischief around every corner – all included with general park admission and select Annual Passes.
SeaWorld Orlando is excited to celebrate Halloween with families and children of all ages once again at this year’s Halloween Spooktacular.
Kids will love collecting ghoulish goodies as they explore SeaWorld Orlando’s fun-filled trick-or-treating trail and meet colorful characters along the way. The days will also be full of other immersive and family-friendly activities to get the whole family into the Halloween spirit.
This daytime event takes place every Saturday and Sunday starting September 17 and extends to Friday through Sunday from October 7 through the day of Halloween. SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular is included with park admission.
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.
The festival happens daily and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, live entertainment, family activities, and more.
Daily after sunset in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure will be taken over by the Dark Arts daily until October 31, 2022.
Guests can experience the return of Death Eaters and the breathtaking experience of “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” – a sinister spectacle of state-of-the-art projection mapping, special effects, lighting, and more that brings awe-inspiring moments and creatures from the Harry Potter films to life on the majestic Hogwarts castle.
Guests can also shop new Dark Arts-themed merchandise featuring the Dark Mark during their visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including mugs, hats, lanyards, tees – and even a Death Eater mask.
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, the world’s premier Halloween event, is now open and will run for a record-breaking 43 select nights through October 31.
This year’s chilling lineup unleashes top names in horror and pop culture alongside a host of original abominations that spawn disturbing twists on Halloween traditions in 10 eerily immersive haunted houses and five scare zones – each filled with hordes of menacing creatures.
And when guests need a break from the scares, they can enjoy two outrageous live shows, sink their teeth into a “killer” menu of uniquely themed food and beverage, shop the latest merchandise in a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and enjoy Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting attractions.
Want to be On the Go in the Parks at Halloween Horror Nights? Find ticket information here.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is coming back with vengeance this year at SeaWorld Orlando with all-new houses, scare zones, shows, and bars that will make guests scream in fright.
They can deepen the thrill with a chilling nighttime ride on Mako, Manta, Infinity Falls, or the park’s newest thrill ride, Ice Breaker.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando features more haunted houses, scare zones, coasters, and unexpected frights than the Inaugural Fear—making it a can’t-miss experience for haunt fans and thrill-seekers alike.
The all-new Busch Gardens Spooktacular invites guests to step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training!
A costume parade, storytime, and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience that is included with admission to the park.
Busch Gardens Spooktacular will be casting magical spells daily until October 30, 2022, from 12 – 4 p.m. on the Festival Walkway.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns in full force, taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows, and more.
Unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level, and once you’re in, there’s nothing to fear but everything.
Howl-O-Scream 2022 is a separately-ticketed night event that takes place on select evenings until October 31, 2022.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an after-hours, separately ticketed event at the Magic Kingdom that is full of spirited fun with your favorite Disney Characters.
Throughout the evening, guests can:
Watch 3 sinister sisters bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park during the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular
Witness Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters and hosted by Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Boogie down at the Disney Junior Jam at Storybook Circus—featuring some favorite friends from Disney Junior shows. It’s perfect for young partygoers!
See some beloved Disney Characters during Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade.
Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.
Revel in the extraordinarily enchanting atmosphere of Magic Kingdom park during this limited-capacity event.
If you are a Disney fanatic who loves Halloween, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a must if you are On the Go in the Parks!!!
Halloween fun for the entire family can be found On the Go in the Parks September 16-18, 2022, as Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld Orlando joins the Halloween festivities in the theme parks of Central Florida.
SeaWorld Orlando is excited to celebrate Halloween with families and children of all ages once again at this year’s Halloween Spooktacular.
Kids will love collecting ghoulish goodies as they explore SeaWorld Orlando’s fun-filled trick-or-treating trail and meet colorful characters along the way. The days will also be full of other immersive and family-friendly activities to get the whole family into the Halloween spirit.
This daytime event takes place every Saturday and Sunday starting September 17 and extends to Friday through Sunday from October 7 through the day of Halloween. SeaWorld Orlando’s Spooktacular is included with park admission.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an after-hours, separately ticketed event at the Magic Kingdom that is full of spirited fun with your favorite Disney Characters.
Throughout the evening, guests can:
Watch 3 sinister sisters bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park during the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular
Witness Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters and hosted by Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Boogie down at the Disney Junior Jam at Storybook Circus—featuring some favorite friends from Disney Junior shows. It’s perfect for young partygoers!
See some beloved Disney Characters during Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade.
Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.
Revel in the extraordinarily enchanting atmosphere of Magic Kingdom park during this limited-capacity event.
If you are a Disney fanatic who loves Halloween, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a must if you are On the Go in the Parks!!!
Eat to the Beat Concert Series – 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, 8:00 PM @ American Gardens Theater
Los Amigos Invisibles – NEW! – September 16 and 17
American Authors – September 18 and 19
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.
The festival happens daily and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families alike as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, along with live entertainment, family activities, and more.
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, the world’s premier Halloween event, is now open and will run for a record-breaking 43 select nights through October 31.
This year’s chilling lineup unleashes top names in horror and pop culture alongside a host of original abominations that spawn disturbing twists on Halloween traditions in 10 eerily immersive haunted houses and five scare zones – each filled with hordes of menacing creatures.
And when guests need a break from the scares, they can enjoy two outrageous live shows, sink their teeth into a “killer” menu of uniquely themed food and beverage, shop the latest merchandise in a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and enjoy Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting attractions.
Want to be On the Go in the Parks at Halloween Horror Nights? Find ticket information here.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is coming back with vengeance this year at SeaWorld Orlando with all-new houses, scare zones, shows, and bars that will make guests scream in fright.
They can deepen the thrill with a chilling nighttime ride on Mako, Manta, Infinity Falls, or the park’s newest thrill ride, Ice Breaker.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando features more haunted houses, scare zones, coasters, and unexpected frights than the Inaugural Fear—making it a can’t-miss experience for haunt fans and thrill-seekers alike.
The all-new Busch Gardens Spooktacular invites guests to step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training!
A costume parade, storytime, and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience that is included with admission to the park.
Busch Gardens Spooktacular will be casting magical spells daily until October 30, 2022, from 12 – 4 p.m. on the Festival Walkway.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns in full force, taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows, and more.
Unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level, and once you’re in, there’s nothing to fear but everything.
Howl-O-Scream 2022 is a separately-ticketed night event that takes place on select evenings until October 31, 2022.
At the D23 Expo 2022, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro made several exciting announcements about the future of Walt Disney World Resort and beyond.
While I’m excited about the news Josh covered, let’s take a closer look at the magical news for Walt Disney World, including all-new attractions, the return of several fan favorites, and the addition of beloved characters here.
Ready to begin … Those words will fill the air with the popular anthem “Happily Ever After” when an updated nighttime spectacular lights up the skies at Magic Kingdom Park in 2023.
That won’t be the only addition lighting up the skies at Magic Kingdom Park. Neon lights and speeding lightcycles will fill Tomorrowland as your chance to enter the grid with TRON Lightcycle / Run arrives in spring 2023.
You’ll climb aboard your very own Lightcycle and race through a dark, computerized world alongside your family and friends.
As you swoop and swerve throughout the course, your team will compete to be the first to race through eight Energy Gates and claim victory.
Foolish mortals, prepare yourselves for a new happy haunt at the Haunted Mansion.
The Hatbox Ghost has heard your calls and will materialize next year.
You may recognize this popular character from the attraction at Disneyland Resort in California.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take you along with Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and their friends as they host a party at Tiana’s Place for the people of New Orleans.
It’s up to us to help find the missing ingredient when this exciting new attraction opens in late 2024.
The multi-year transformation of EPCOT will soon reach another major milestone with the completion of the World Celebration neighborhood in late 2023.
With lush, green space for you to relax, plus the opening of Communicore Hall and Communicore Plaza, this central location in the park will be the new home for festivals and the perfect space to gather with family and friends.
It will also be home to Dreamers Point, an inspiring new area where you can view the new Walt Disney statue called “Walt the Dreamer.”
Over in World Nature – the EPCOT neighborhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty, awe, and balance of the natural world – we’re excited to share that Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, will also open in late 2023.
The new exploration trail will allow guests to learn about the story of water on our planet.
As you may have seen through Moana’s bond with the ocean, water has a mind of its own, and you’ll get to interact with it throughout this attraction.
Imagination has always been a core theme at EPCOT, with attractions and experiences that push the boundaries.
One key character always comes to mind when we think about imagination, and he’s coming to life in a whole new way by the end of next year.
David Roark, photographer
As we look ahead to the future and the celebration of the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary, we’re excited to share that a new nighttime spectacular is in the works for EPCOT.
The new show is currently in development and will debut late next year, carrying on the park’s legacy of inspiring nighttime entertainment that unites guests around World Showcase Lagoon.
I cannot wait to see all of these at the Walt Disney World Resort!!!
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is an after-hours, separately ticketed event at the Magic Kingdom that is full of spirited fun with your favorite Disney Characters.
Throughout the evening, guests can:
Watch 3 sinister sisters bewitch and bedazzle the residents of Magic Kingdom park during the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular
Witness Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular—a wickedly wild fireworks display featuring some of your favorite Disney Characters and hosted by Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Boogie down at the Disney Junior Jam at Storybook Circus—featuring some favorite friends from Disney Junior shows. It’s perfect for young partygoers!
See some beloved Disney Characters during Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade.
Collect a bag full of candy as you roam the trick-or-treat trails in search of some of your favorite sweets.
Revel in the extraordinarily enchanting atmosphere of Magic Kingdom park during this limited-capacity event.
If you are a Disney fanatic who loves Halloween, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a must if you are On the Go in the Parks!!!
Eat to the Beat Concert Series – 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, 8:00 PM @ American Gardens Theater
Hoobastank – NEW! – September 9 and 10
Jimmie Allen – September 11 and 12
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.
The festival happens daily and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families alike as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, along with live entertainment, family activities, and more.
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, the world’s premier Halloween event, is now open and will run for a record-breaking 43 select nights through October 31.
This year’s chilling lineup unleashes top names in horror and pop culture alongside a host of original abominations that spawn disturbing twists on Halloween traditions in 10 eerily immersive haunted houses and five scare zones – each filled with hordes of menacing creatures.
And when guests need a break from the scares, they can enjoy two outrageous live shows, sink their teeth into a “killer” menu of uniquely themed food and beverage, shop the latest merchandise in a new Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and enjoy Universal Studios Florida’s most exciting attractions.
Want to be On the Go in the Parks at Halloween Horror Nights? Find ticket information here.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando is coming back with vengeance this year at SeaWorld Orlando with all-new houses, scare zones, shows, and bars that will make guests scream in fright.
They can deepen the thrill with a chilling nighttime ride on Mako, Manta, Infinity Falls, or the park’s newest thrill ride, Ice Breaker.
Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld Orlando features more haunted houses, more scare zones, more coasters, and more unexpected frights than the Inaugural Fear—making it a can’t-miss experience for haunt fans and thrill-seekers alike.
The all-new Busch Gardens Spooktacular invites guests to step into a whimsical world full of enchantment with Kandy, a witch-in-training!
A costume parade, storytime, and trick or treating are some of the activities guests will find in this immersive Halloween experience that is included with admission to the park.
Busch Gardens Spooktacular will be casting magical spells daily until October 30, 2022, from 12 – 4 p.m. on the Festival Walkway.
Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream returns in full force, taking over the entire park with haunted houses, scare zones, sinister shows, and more.
Unspeakable horror lives in every dark corner, including on Busch Gardens’ pulse-pounding thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream is bringing fear to the next level, and once you’re in, there’s nothing to fear but everything.
Howl-O-Scream 2022 is a separately-ticketed night event that takes place on select evenings from September 9 to October 31, 2022.
New 2023 voyage dates for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will soon be available at Walt Disney World Resort. Beginning Sept. 1, 2022, guests may book two-night vacation experiences aboard Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser for voyage dates through the end of September 2023.
Making its debut earlier this year at Walt Disney World Resort, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser introduced a first-of-its-kind immersive experience going beyond anything Disney has created before and continues to receive stellar reviews from guests of all ages. Guests become the heroes of their own Star Wars stories during a two-night adventure aboard the Halcyon starcruiser, a vessel known for its impeccable service and exotic destinations. Passengers relax in well-appointed cabins, enjoy exquisite dining and out-of-this-world entertainment, experience Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in new ways, and explore the ship in search of hidden secrets and new opportunities.
Throughout the voyage, guests’ choices determine their personal stories as they interact with characters, crew, and other passengers, becoming part of the action and the broader Star Wars saga. They may be asked to keep a secret, deliver a covert message, take part in a high-stakes heist, defend the ship, hide an ally … the possibilities are seemingly endless. Guests’ decisions affect how these tales unfold, intertwining with those of other passengers and well-known characters such as Chewbacca and Rey as momentum builds on an action-packed adventure that may determine the galaxy’s fate.
David Roark, photographer
From Walt Disney World to a Galaxy Far, Far Away Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser debuted during “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, adding to the abundance of new experiences across the resort during this historic milestone.
The adventure begins when guests arrive at the Halcyon starcruiser terminal near Disney’s Hollywood Studios and check-in for their two-night experience.
Guests enter a Launch Pod to begin their Star Wars Through viewports. They see their world fall away as they jump to hyperspace and draw closer to the magnificent Halcyon starcruiser.
When the Launch Pod docks and the airlock open, guests step into the ship’s main deck Atrium to begin their journey through a galaxy far, far away.
Matt Stroshane, photographer
An Experience Going Beyond Anything Disney Has Created Before Star Wars infuses every moment onboard the Halcyon starcruiser, where each detail of the experience is meticulously crafted to create a compelling, complete, all-consuming story.
The immersive experience features thrilling onboard activities, such as:
Learning the ancient ways of the lightsaber and facing off against a training remote, where guests may discover their own connection with the Force just as Luke Skywalker once did.
Visiting the starcruiser’s Bridge to learn about its systems and how to operate them, including weapons and shields – skills that may come in handy during a journey through this adventure-filled galaxy.
Playing holo-sabacc in the ship’s Sublight Lounge, where guests can try their luck against other passengers in this game of skill, strategy, and chance.
Passenger cabins feature a viewport out to space that continuously changes throughout the journey. Other special touches include sleeping berths reminiscent of those seen on other famous Star Wars ships, such as the Millennium Falcon.
Guests can explore the starcruiser and perhaps discover hidden spaces perfect for uncovering secrets or holding clandestine meetings.
Matt Stroshane, photographer
Dynamic, Interactive Storytelling Unfolds in Real Time A visit on the Halcyon starcruiser invites guests into a two-night, interactive story that interweaves with crew members, other passengers, droids, and familiar Star Wars characters such as Rey, Chewbacca, and Kylo Ren. As they choose alliances and chart their own courses, guests may encounter the starcruiser’s strong and charismatic captain, a plucky mechanic, or a charming scoundrel with an ulterior motive, among others.
Characters may engage with guests throughout the voyage, from simply asking about their homeworlds to inviting them to protect valuable information or participate in a mission.
Passengers can deepen their engagement with characters and storylines by using the Play Disney Parks mobile app on their smart devices.* Through the Star Wars: Datapad inside the app, guests can access a plethora of functions.
Kent Phillips photographer
Dining Is Part of the Show Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser boasts a robust and imaginative dining program developed especially for this experience. Passengers discover menus full of familiar tastes but unexpected colors and textures, deepening the immersion of their galactic voyage.
Guests find refreshments each day in an enticing supper club known as the Crown of Corellia Dining Room. This dynamic and welcoming hall offers breakfast and lunch buffets during the day and then comes alive each night of the voyage with a lavish multi-course, table-service menu of both otherworldly and familiar origins.
The first night’s dinner features a live performance from Gaya, the Twi’lek musical superstar who captivates her audience as she moves throughout the room singing her biggest hits. (Passengers may find listening to Gaya’s performance brings insight into more of the goings-on around the ship.)
The second night offers the “Taste Around the Galaxy” dinner experience, where each course hails from a different planet.
The Sublight Lounge, located just off the ship’s Atrium, offers a stylish locale for passengers to socialize and enjoy casual refreshments, including an assortment of ales, wines, and signature cocktails from across the galaxy, along with light snacks.
David Roark, photographer
Merchandise Enhances Immersive Play Onboard the Starcruiser An extensive merchandise collection for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser enhances this role-play vacation experience, inviting guests to further immerse themselves in a galaxy far, far away. The Chandrila Collection boutique offers a wide assortment of premium garments, and accessories guests can purchase and wear during their voyage.
Passengers can dress the part in robes, tunics, and other authentic fashion apparel evoking Star Wars characters such as Padme Amidala, Leia Organa, and Alderaanian officials, among others.
Headwear helps guests transform into an alien species, with Twi’lek “lekku” head tails or the striped, horned montrals of a Togruta.
Other merchandise options include a remote-control SK droid, a light-up Halcyon starcruiser model, the Legacy Lightsaber Training Hilt, and Legacy Reflective Shield, and the commemorative Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser items.
Matt Stroshane, photographer
New Stories Come to Life in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Storylines from Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser continues to play out when guests travel to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on the second day of their voyage.
Passengers board a special transport shuttle for their planetside excursion to Batuu, traveling to Docking Bay 3 in Black Spire Outpost.
Starcruiser passengers can participate in new missions throughout the land based on characters they’ve met onboard the starcruiser. Guests’ actions while on Batuu may have ramifications when they return to the Halcyon starcruiser, helping determine how their stories play out.
As part of their secret missions, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser guests receive one-time entry to the land’s two signature attractions – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
Lunch at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (or other select locations) is included.
Guests on a voyage can also request reservations at Oga’s Cantina, Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, and Droid Depot. (Food, beverages and merchandise at these locations are not included in a Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser)
Matt Stroshane, photographer
Visit the official website for more information on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser.
EPCOT truly offers something for everyone, from immersive attractions to flavorful festivals and interactive pavilions that spark your curiosity and enable you to experience cultures and cuisine from around the world.
And with the park transforming before our eyes – and preparing to celebrate its 40th anniversary on October 1st – it’s an exciting time to experience EPCOT!
And now, there are three more reasons to visit as fan-favorite Enchanting Extras Collection are returning to EPCOT beginning October 2, adding to and completing the previously announced lineup of highly popular tours returning to Walt Disney World Resort.
These personalized experiences offer an exciting look at the magic of possibilities and give you the unique ability to experience EPCOT by land and sea!
Experience The Land:
If you like the Living with the Land attraction at EPCOT or have an interest in gardening and natural sciences, then you’ll love Behind the Seeds!
This one-hour walking tour gives you an up-close and personal view of amazing plants, insects, and fish throughout four state-of-the-art greenhouses.
Take in the sights and smells of unusual crops from around the world as you explore the future of agriculture.
Your knowledgeable guide will help you discover some of the latest plant-growing techniques in use at The Land, including hydroponics, and provide ideas you can try at home in your own garden!
Experience The Seas:
The Seas with Nemo & Friends is home to more than 2,000 sea creatures representing over 90 aquatic species, including sea turtles, angelfish, dolphins, eagle rays, and sharks.
With the return of EPCOT Seas Adventures – DiveQuest, guests once again can dive right into this 5.7-million-gallon saltwater environment and immerse themselves in the sea life surrounding the coral reef.
This experience offers SCUBA-certified guests guaranteed calm seas, unlimited visibility, no current, and incredible marine life.
If you aren’t SCUBA-certified or prefer to stay on your “sea legs,” don’t worry; there is a tour for you, too!
With the return of EPCOT Seas Adventures – Dolphins in Depth, guests can meet the bottlenose dolphins at The Seas to learn about their complex undersea behavior and talk with the experts who work with them every day.
These guest-favorite tours return beginning Oct. 2 and are on sale beginning August 22 on DisneyWorld.com or the My Disney Experience app.
Due to the popularity of these tours, advance bookings are highly recommended.
Please note the Behind the Seeds experience requires a valid theme park admission and reservation.
For a complete list of the Enchanting Extras Collection across Walt Disney World Resort, click here.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is full of frightfully fun delights for you to indulge in during your trip to Magic Kingdom Park during the Halloween season and at this beloved event on select nights from August 12 through October 31, 2022.
In this edition of the WDW Foodie Guide, we’ll take a peek at the event-exclusive treats that the Walt Disney World culinary teams have conjured up.
WDW Foodie Guide: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2022
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
Not-So-Poison Apple Pie Milk Shake: Apple pie milkshake with green apple whipped cream, sour apple marshmallow straw, cinnamon donuts, and a poison apple straw (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Sweet Candy Corn Soft-serve Swirl Cone: Sweet corn and vanilla soft-serve swirl topped with candy corn chocolate bow (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Casey’s Corner
Pain and Panic Hot Dog: All-beef hot dog, sweet and spicy onion relish, and sriracha mustard topped with spicy cheese-flavored snacks (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Winifred’s Elixir of Youth: Black tea slushy with kiwi foam and Winifred chocolate piece (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Cheshire Café
Binx Pastry Tail: Cat tail drizzled with dark chocolate and topped with Binx chocolate piece (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Cold Witches Brew Coffee: French vanilla cold brew with pumpkin spiced foam topped with Halloween sprinkles (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
Bayou Burger: All-beef patty, jalapeño pimento cheese, crispy andouille sausage, and garlic pickles (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
The Friar’s Nook
Hades Hot Dog: Spicy beef and pork hot dog, Hades’ relish, and pickles served with house-made violet mustard (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Un Poco Loco Tots: Chorizo sausage, green onion, and Hades’ cheese sauce (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Golden Oak Outpost
Spellbinding Fried Pie: Buffalo chicken, mozzarella, and blue cheese wrapped in flaky dough topped with a candy eye and jalapeño ranch aïoli (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Ice Cream Cart near Haunted Mansion
Chilling Chamber Pop: Chocolate crumbs, cherry buttercream, and dark chocolate pearls topped with Tightrope Walker chocolate piece (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Plaza Ice Cream Parlor
Monster Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich: Monster cookies filled with vanilla ice cream (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Liberty Square Market
Monster Cookie: Sugar cookie with candy eyes and Halloween-themed sprinkles (New) (Available during regular park hours only)
Main Street Bakery
Oh, My Gourd Cupcake: Pumpkin spice cupcake with cinnamon cream cheese icing finished with dark chocolate ears (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café
Sweet Almond Corn Cake: Almond vanilla cake dipped in white, orange, and yellow chocolate topped with candy corn (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Popcorn Cart near Cinderella Castle
Mexican Spiced Hot “COCO” Brownie: Spice chocolate brownie with dark chocolate ganache topped with Miguel chocolate piece (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Sleepy Hollow Refreshments
Grave Digger Milk Shake: Coconut and matcha blended soft-serve topped with whipped cream, Grave Digger shovel, and chocolate gravestone (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Worms and Dirt Funnel Cake: Funnel cake topped with chocolate ice cream, chocolate cookie crumbs, gummy worms, and Billy chocolate piece (New)(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Chilling Chamber Pop: Chocolate crumbs, cherry buttercream, and dark chocolate pearls topped with Tightrope Walker chocolate piece (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Snack Cart near Cinderella Castle
M&M’s Peanut Butter Churro: Churro rolled in peanut dust with peanut sauce, chocolate sauce, and M&M’s Peanut Butter (New) (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Sunshine Tree Terrace
Jack-O-Lantern Float: Citrus swirl with Fanta Orange, brown sugar whipped cream, and graham cracker crumbs (New) (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Glow Mickey Mummy Premium Popcorn Bucket – glowing soon at various popcorn carts throughout the park (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Donald Candy Corn Sipper – materializing in early Oct. at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café, The Friar’s Nook, Sleepy Hollow Refreshments (Available during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Halloween Candy Glow Cube – glowing soon at Sunshine Tree Terrace (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Zero Popcorn Bucket – materializing in early Oct. at various popcorn carts throughout the park (Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
I don’t know about you…but I am READY to give these WDW Foodie Guide treats a try!!!
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE.
The festival kicks off on July 14th at Walt Disney World Resort and continues through November 19, offering new experiences for foodies and families alike as part of the “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” honoring the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary.
Matt Stroshane, Photographer
Like a passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drinks, along with live entertainment, family activities, and more.
2022 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival
Harrison Cooney, Photographer
New Sips, Fresh Bites at Global Marketplaces More than 25 festival food and wine marketplaces located throughout EPCOT celebrate the best in global food and drink. This year, the creative Disney culinary teams have dreamed up unique dishes as nearly one third of the menu offerings are new. Here is a sampling of the many flavors:
Debuting this year is The Fry Basket featuring French fries presented with unique savory and sweet toppings, including the Fry Flight, which features three different flavors: Sea Salt and Malt Vinegar Fries; Barbecued Bacon Fries with smoked aïoli; and Sweet Potato Casserole Fries with candied pecans, toasted marshmallow cream, and caramel whisky
A guest favorite from years past, India returns with three brand-new items: Crispy Paneer with Mango-Curry Ketchup, Potato and Pea Samosa with Coriander-Lime Cream, and Chicken Tikka Masala with Fennel-spiced Yogurt and Naan Bread.
Harrison Cooney, Photographer
The Belgium marketplace, opening at 8:30 a.m. daily, serves up Belgian Waffles topped with either Warm Chocolate Ganache or Berry Compote and Whipped Cream, as well as Chilled Mocha Coffee – perfect for those who want to get an early start on their epicurean journey.
The Swanky Saucy Swine entices guests with the return of a fan favorite: Crispy Barbecued Pork Rinds with Pimento Cheese, and a new item: Grilled Pork Shoulder Lettuce Wrap with Charred Corn Salsa, Pickled Red Onion, and Cilantro-Lime.
Hops & Barley showcases the best of America with a new Chesapeake Crab Slider with Tangy Coleslaw and Cajun Remoulade, as well as Freshly Baked Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing.
Harrison Cooney, Photographer
The Alps showcase a new item perfect for the changing seasons: Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese with Riesling-poached Pears, Red Wine-braised Figs, Candied Pecans, Honey, and Cranberry Toast.
And dozens more returning favorite dishes can be found throughout the Festival in Germany, Spain, Canada, Australia, Greece, Japan, Brazil, Coastal Eats,and Flavors From Fire Marketplaces – to name just a few!
Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare Live musical performances at the America Gardens Theatre are scheduled to feature internationally recognized artists Friday through Monday and local bands rocking the house Tuesday through Thursday.
With genres spanning Rock, Latin, Rap, Pop, Country, Gospel, and more, some of this year’s lineup includes:
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Tonic
Blanco Brown
Hoobastank
Los Amigos Invisibles
Sheila E.
38 Special
Robert Randolph Band
Newsboys
Ray Parker Jr.
Billy Ocean
Hanson
Boyz II Men
Kenny G
Sugar Ray
And many others!
With an Eat to the Beat Dining Package (for Friday through Monday concerts), guests can enjoy a leisurely meal at a select EPCOT restaurant and guaranteed seating at one of the performances later that same day.
To see the full lineup of artists, performance dates, and pricing, and to make a dining package reservation, guests can visit TasteEpcot.com.
Harrison Cooney, Photographer
Engaging Experiences Encourage Exploration Guests can have even more fun exploring the festival by participating in interactive experiences (separate purchase required):
In Emile’s Fromage Montage, cheese lovers can take a walk on the tasty side to sample cheese dishes served in inventive ways. To participate, guests must purchase five different items from the list of qualifying dishes available at select Festival Marketplaces (found in the Festival Passport) and collect a special stamp from each location they visit. Then, guests can receive a special dessert served in a festival cup.
Kids of all ages can embark on a Ratatouille-inspired adventure that’s très magnifique in Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak. In this savory scavenger hunt, guests purchase a map and stickers from select festival merchandise locations (while supplies last) and then explore EPCOT to find Remy statuettes to match their stickers to the map. Whether they search for the ingredients or not, guests may return their map to redemption locations in the park to receive a festival keepsake.
New this year! From Sept. 29-Oct. 31 (or while supplies last), special Halloween fun for the whole family is available in Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit. With the purchase of a map and stickers, guests can search around EPCOT to look for hidden decorative pumpkins themed to Disney characters. Whether they search for the pumpkins or not, guests may return their map to redemption locations in the park to receive a small festival keepsake item.
For 129 delicious days, guests can sip, savor and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. From July 14 through Nov. 19, 2022, more than 25 festival food and wine marketplaces located throughout EPCOT celebrate the best in global food and drink. The entire family can also enjoy live musical performances by internationally recognized artists, participate in fun activities and scavenger hunts, and shop at Festival Markets showcasing official event collectibles, keepsakes, apparel, kitchenware items and more. (Harrison Cooney, Photographer)
Sip, Savor, Repeat…and Shop! This year, the festival merchandise team is serving up five new collections to savor. Guests can visit Festival Markets throughout EPCOT to shop for official event items, including:
Event Logo Collection, with something for everyone including commemorative apparel, accessories and adorable keepsakes
Chef Mickey Mouse and Chef Minnie Mouse Collection, evoking nostalgia for longtime Disney fans with an assortment of tabletop and kitchen-themed items, an apron and more
Princess Tiana Collection, an array of kitchenware and apparel with New Orleans-inspired culinary flair marks the beloved princess’ first exclusive festival specialty merchandise line
Chef Figment Collection, paying tribute to Figment’s love of all things purple – including beets – this fun new collection includes kitchen essentials, trading pins and more
The Chef Remy Annual Passholder Collection, featuring unique Remy inspired merchandise including apparel, trading pins and collectible novelties
Merchandise can be found at festival retail locations across EPCOT beginning July 14, with additional pieces debuting throughout the festival. Select items are also available on shopDisney.com.
Harrison Cooney, Photographer
To experience the 2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, guests need both a valid park admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date. For more details on this year’s festival, guests may visit TasteEpcot.com.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course opened on October 1, 1971, the same day as Magic Kingdom Theme Park.
In the 50 years since its opening, the course has undergone renovations and redesigns to enhance conditions and playability to update the designs to today’s game.
The Arnold Palmer Golf Management has been reimaging the finishing stretch of the course and has shared new information about the upcoming changes.
Designed and overseen by Ken Baker, who has extensive international design experience and is currently the head of golf course design at One Club Limited, these course updates will be completed by the end of the year.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course Reimaginining
Hole 14 – Currently a par 5, will become a par 4, with a new green location
Hole 15 – Currently a par 3, will shift location and become a long par 5, dogleg to the right
Hole 16 – Will shift location and remain a par 4, but will now become a dogleg to the left
Hole 17 – Currently a par 4, will become a par 3, with new tee box locations
To accommodate the shifting hole locations, players will find several new fairways and greenside bunkers were engineered.
Suited to test each player’s level, a selection of new teeing grounds will also be a part of the reimagining.
The changes to the holes will retain the par 72 traditional nature of the golf course.
These changes are just the beginning of the other enhancements to the golf experience at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, which will result in reconstructing all 18 greens at Disney’s MagnoliaGolf Course greens.
Recently two PGA Tour stars, 2017 Masters winner Sergio Garcia and 2019 US Open champion Gary Woodland, got a sneak peek at the redesign, and both walked away impressed.
“It will be amazing. The 15th (becoming) a big par 5; 16 is a long par 4 and they’ve brought in the water perfectly,” said Woodland. “You’re going to have four closing holes down the stretch that will test every aspect of your game. It’ll be a great finish here at Magnolia.”
Added Garcia: “It’s a fun course to play. When (golfers) finish their rounds, they can’t wait to come back and I think that’s something the Magnolia course will have.”
While Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is now closed for play, you can still enjoy teeing up at Disney’s Palm Golf Course and Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course.
You can find information about “The Happiest Place on TURF,” including available tee times, limited edition Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary golf merchandise, instruction, and more at https://www.golfwdw.com.
If you are heading to EPCOT to experience “an intergalactic chase through space and time,” you will first need to prepare to take on the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Virtual Queue!
This is a mission that you should not be afraid to take on, BUT you will want to be prepared!
Know Before You Go – Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Virtual Queue
To join the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Virtual Queue, you will need to make sure that you have downloaded and logged into the My Disney Experience App
Starting at 7 a.m. on the day of your Park reservation, Guests with a valid ticket or pass and a Disney Park Pass Reservation for EPCOT will be able to check for an available boarding group and request access to the virtual queue.
This can be done before you leave your Resort hotel or on your way to the Park.
Another opportunity to enter the virtual queue will be released at 1 p.m. for anyone who wasn’t able to join a boarding group earlier in the day.
Keep in mind that you must be inside EPCOT to access this second virtual queue opportunity.
Access to a boarding group is subject to availability and not guaranteed.
An additional opportunity to request to join the virtual queue will be available at 6:00 PM on select dates during extended evening theme park hours, a benefit for registered Guests staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort, Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, or other select hotels.
Guests with this benefit do not need to be in EPCOT to request to join at that time.
These Guests will need valid admission and a theme park reservation for the same park on the same day to experience extended evening hours—or, they may experience extended evening hours if they have a ticket or Annual Pass with the Park Hopper option and first enter the park for which they made their reservation.
In order to give as many Guests as possible the opportunity to save the galaxy, each Guest can enter the virtual queue no more than once per day during regular Park hours.
The virtual queue is only accessible via the My Disney Experience app. Additional information, including tips for getting into the virtual queue, are available here. Guests who need additional help joining the virtual queue for the 1 p.m. enrollment time should seek out a Guest Relations or Guest Experience Team Cast Member.
Using the Disability Access Service (DAS)? To utilize your DAS, you will still need to have a spot in the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Virtual Queue.
Please note that joining the virtual queue does not guarantee the ability to experience Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
The first full-size Starblaster ever built stands outside Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, the new family-thrill coaster attraction at EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Kent Phillips, photographer)
How to Join the Virtual Queue
Step 1 – Check Availability Log in to the My Disney Experience app at one of the distribution times. Select “Virtual Queues” on the home screen to view the current status and next steps for joining a virtual queue. The app will indicate when there is no availability for a specific distribution time or if a backup group is available.
Step 2 – Enroll Your Group: As long as your Disney account is linked to your group’s park tickets, and everyone has valid admission and park reservations for the park you will visit, you can enroll everyone in the virtual queue at the same time (subject to availability).
Step 3 – Enjoy the Experience: If your boarding group is called to return, you’ll receive a notification via the My Disney Experience app. Then, head over to the entrance of the experience within your designated return window.
Some additional Virtual Queue Notes:
Joining the virtual queue does not guarantee the ability to participate in the experience.
In order to give as many Guests as possible the opportunity to join the queue, each Guest can enter the virtual queue for a given experience no more than once per day, subject to availability.
Boarding groups for a virtual queue are limited, subject to availability, and are not guaranteed. Not all boarding groups may be called to return based on the availability of the experience.
Guests may not hold a boarding group for more than one experience at the same time. If more than one experience is using a virtual queue, guests will need to enter those virtual queues one at a time.
Guests visiting from another theme park using an Annual Pass or the Park Hopper option may not be able to join the virtual queue in a park where they do not have a Disney Park Pass reservation.
In order to request access to a virtual queue during Park Hopper hours, a Guest must be inside the theme park where the virtual queue will be used.
SeaWorld Orlando’s fan-favorite Latin festival is back as Viva La Música takes over the park during two unforgettable weekends, May 14-15 and May 22-23.
Park visitors can enjoy this festival’s sights, sounds, and flavors, including red-hot local entertainment featuring salsa, bachata, reggaetón, and more. Discover authentic cuisine inspired by the colorful flavors of the Caribbean, Spain, and Central & South America. Celebrate Latin tradition with chef-curated dishes such as Seafood Paella, Mojo Roasted Pork, Empanadas, and Mojitos.
Viva La Música is highlighted by a series of sensational live concerts that will have you dancing out of your seat. The party will not stop once these award-winning musicians take the stage.
In addition, guests can experience local Latin performances and family-friendly cultural activities throughout the park. The headline concert lineup includes:
May 21, Poncho Sanchez (2:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. at Nautilus Theater)
May 22, Proyecto Uno (2:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. at Nautilus Theater)
The 2022 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival is blooming with fresh cuisine, beautiful gardens, whimsical topiaries of familiar characters, and flourishing entertainment daily through July 4, 2022.
The Garden Rocks Concert Series takes place at the American Gardens Theatre at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, 8:00 pm. This weekend’s performers are:
May 20 & 21 – Tony Orlando
May 22 – Collin Raye – NEW!
As a reminder, to enjoy the 2022 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival parkgoers must have both valid theme park admission and a park pass reservation.
This is the final weekend to experience Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival!
This is Tampa’s premier spring festival, included with theme park admission, and is back with more than 20 NEW delicious dishes to pair with curated beverages and a diverse concert lineup.
This weekend you can also enjoy concerts, included with your theme park admission.
Updated Safety Information
Please take note that mask requirements have changed at the Walt Disney World Resort and the Universal Orlando Resort!
Face coverings are optional for fully vaccinated Guests in both outdoor and indoor locations. Guests who are not fully vaccinated are expected to continue to wear face coverings in all indoor locations, including queues, indoor attractions, and theaters.
At Walt Disney World, face coverings are still required by all Guests (ages 2 and up) on enclosed Disney transportation, including Disney buses, monorails, and Disney Skyliner.
Florida Resident Savings On the Go in the Parks
Who doesn’t love saving when you are On the Go in the Parks???
Check out these Florida Resident exclusive ticket deals!
Save Up To $65 On All Multi-Day Tickets When You Buy Tickets Online!
Florida residents, enjoy online savings, plus make the thrills last longer with multi-day tickets (blockout dates and restrictions apply). Visit two amazing theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Savings based on the online purchase price difference (before tax) between a Florida Resident and the corresponding non-Florida Resident 2-Park 3-Day Park-to-Park Ticket.
Savings are not available at Universal Orlando theme park’s front gates.
Savings are only available for purchases made at UniversalOrlando.com.
The ticket is valid for purchase and use by Florida residents only.
Proof of Florida residency is required.
Savings cannot be combined with other offers, discounts, or prior purchases, and do not apply to promotional or combo ticket products. Additional restrictions may apply.
LIMITED-TIME OFFER: SAVE 20% + COMPLIMENTARY DRINK PACKAGE
Florida Residents, enjoy year-round 20% savings and, for a limited time, receive a complimentary premium drink package (a $40 value) with your booking.
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in the Parks and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!
