A Day Celebrating Holidays Around the World At Epcot

On Friday, November 27, Epcot began their holiday festivities with their annual Holidays Around the World line up. This post will be extra picture heavy as I think they tell the story better than I could.

Entrance Entrance2 Thumper Bambi StitchHoliday DonaldGoofy Snowflakes IMG_8704 IMG_8706

My family and I like to make a day of the special events each year. We always make reservations for the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package and spend the day going around World Showcase listening to the different storytellers. I love looking at all the decorations that are country-specific too. We also make sure to sample some of the special holiday treats that are available – make sure to pick up a passport!

bûche de Noël
bûche de Noël
Gluhwein
Gluhwein
Frozen Peppermint Trifle
Frozen Peppermint Trifle

All of the countries feature a special holiday performer or storyteller (or two). We can never fit in all the storytellers in one day, but I have seen all of them at least once before. There are descriptions posted at each country that are worth a read even if you don’t catch the performer. Here is a description of all of them with pictures of the ones we caught over the weekend, plus some of the decorations in the countries.

Canada – The Holiday Voyageurs perform on the Mill Stage singing songs and describing holiday traditions of different regions in Canada.

Canada at night
Canada at night
Canadian Moose
Canadian Moose

United Kingdom – Father Christmas tell us what the holiday season is like in the United Kingdom and explains the mistletoe custom. There’s also a short sing-a-long of Deck the Halls, a song that comes from Wales.

UK Garland
UK Garland
Holiday Tea Set
Holiday Tea Set
Description Card
Description Card
Father Christmas
Father Christmas

France – Père Noël tells us the story of Babette and her Christmas wish. Through the story we learn about french customs.

IMG_8717

IMG_8718

IMG_8720

IMG_8721

IMG_8758

IMG_8771

Morocco – Hear about holidays and festivals in Morocco, focusing on celebrating the harvests with dances and feasts.

Japan – Listen to the story of the Daruma doll and New Year’s celebrations in Japan.

American Adventure – Hear about the traditions of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa and the histories behind them. Santa and Mrs. Claus also meet and Voices of Liberty wear Dickens style clothes and sing songs of Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. This year there is a gingerbread Capitol building and Washington Monument inside the rotunda.

Gingerbread Capitol and Washington Monument
Gingerbread Capitol and Washington Monument
IMG_8786
Capitol Building
Voices of Liberty
Voices of Liberty
Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree
Santa and Mrs. Claus
Santa and Mrs. Claus

Italy – La Befana is a witch who brings presents to children in Italy on the Eve of the Epiphany. She tells a story of searching for the Christ child.

IMG_8811 IMG_8816

IMG_8814Germany – Helga tells us all about the Christmas traditions in Germany, many of which we have adopted here in the United States like the Christmas tree and the nutcracker.

IMG_8734

IMG_8730

IMG_8732

 IMG_8821 IMG_8825

China – The Lion Dancers perform and bestow good luck wishes for the New Year.

IMG_8775

IMG_8776

IMG_8781

Norway – Sigrid explains the holiday traditions of Norway while Julenissen tries to make her believe in the Christmas gnome, with a lot of help from the audience.

IMG_8830

IMG_8832

IMG_8843

IMG_8852

Mexico – Mariachi Cobre and dancers perform traditional songs and dances. Musicians and dancers are fantastic in this and there’s even a piñata for the kids.

IMG_8736

IMG_8737

IMG_8740

IMG_8743

IMG_8754

The headliner of Epcot’s Holidays Around the World is the Candlelight Processional. A celebrity narrator reads scripture from the Christmas story surrounded by a choir and an amazing orchestra. Our narrator was Gary Sinise. It’s definitely a must-see. We like getting the dinner package at least once so we get seats without waiting in a long line. Other times we’ve stood in the back and still enjoyed it.

IMG_8803

DSC02117

DSC02125

Of course, we have to end the day with Illuminations, which features a special holiday ending at this time of year with the countries wishing for Peace on Earth.

IMG_8869

IMG_8867 IMG_8879

Spending the day at Epcot during the holiday season will definitely get you into the spirit.

IMG_8888

IMG_8889

IMG_8911

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

On the Go Gift Guide: Disney Eye Found It

Disney Eye Found It

I thought that we would start our On the Go Gift Guide with a really fun board game from Wonder Forge, Disney Eye Found It!

Disney Eye Found It features a jumbo game board that is filled to brim with whimsical artwork and starring your favorite Disney characters.

Disney Eye Found It

Join Mickey Mouse and friends on an exciting race through 12 exquisitely illustrated Disney realms, from Radiator Springs and Alice’s Wonderland to Peter Pan’s Never Land and Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood. Throughout the race, everyone searches for iconic Disney objects…and gets a chance to say, “I found it!”

Disney Eye Found It at a Glance

Players:

  • Game is for 2-6 players ages 5 and up

Disney Eye Found It

Promotes:
  • Cooperation and teamwork
  • Observation skills and attention to detail
  • Reinforces object identification and matching skills

Disney Eye Found It

Product Contents:
Disney Eye Found It
Wonder Forge packaging is beyond amazing! I love how there isn’t a lot of waste and that the pieces are already in pouches so pieces stay together!
  • 1 Six-foot Game Board in three sections
  • 6 Movers
  • 6 Mover Bases
  • 1 Spinner
  • 12 Mickey Mouse Ear Tokens
  • 30 Search Cards
  • 1 Sand Timer
  • 1 Game Rules Manual

When you are setting up Disney Eye Found It, make sure that you have a LOT of space! When they say Jumbo, they totally mean Jumbo! We set the game up on our dining room table, which was the perfect place to play the game since everyone had a seat and it was a flat surface for the board to fit together.

Disney Eye Found It

The board is chocked full of detail that is beyond perfect for any Disney fan, and it is really easy to get lost in the details! We ended up giving the younger ones playing a little more time and hints since the board is so gigantic!

Here are some of my favorite Disney realms features in Disney Eye Found It!

Disney Eye Found It

Disney Eye Found It

Disney Eye Found It

Disney Eye Found It

We all had a really great time playing Disney Eye Found It, and it is definitely a game we will pull out again to play for our Family Game Nights!

Disney Eye Found It
Make sure you make it to the castle before the strike of Midnight!

Disclosure: Through a partnership with Wonder Forge Games, I have received a promotional item in exchange for this post. All opinions and thoughts are my own!

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Walt Disney World Decorations & Holiday Celebrations

Holiday cheer has begun to hit the Walt Disney World Resort, and we are so excited!!!

Here is quick rundown of some of the great Holiday parties, decorations, events, and more that you will be able to find at the Walt Disney World Resort!!!

Walt Disney World

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Select Nights November 8 – December 20, 2013

Walt Disney World
Santa

In case you aren’t familiar, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separate ticket event that takes place on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park throughout November and December.

 

Parties give you an opportunity to celebrate with snow flurries on Main Street, U.S.A., Disney characters in holiday attire, and very special entertainment offerings, including Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade and Cinderella Castle Dream Lights. For the first time this year, the Celebrate the Magic! castle projection show and Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season fireworks will be enhanced with “Glow With The Show” ears – what an amazing sight this will be!

 

Also new for this year, attendees can experience Jingle Cruise, the first-ever holiday transformation of the Jungle Cruise attraction, which will feature seasonal decor, new holiday jokes and more. Party goers can also pick up a complimentary, event exclusive Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card that features Donald’s nephews. And when it comes to character greeting opportunities, look for Merida’s Fairytale Garden to stay open for parties this year.

 

This year’s parties will take place from 7 p.m.-midnight on November 8, 11, 14, 15, 17, 21 and 22, and December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20. Tickets (which are separate from a regular park ticket) are already on sale now and purchasing ahead of time can actually save you money. Click here to learn more!

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights

November 8, 2013 – January 5, 2014

Marvel at millions of glittering lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music.  Share in an awe-inspiring seasonal treat for the entire family. Brilliant multi-colored bulbs wrap the buildings, changing hues and brightness throughout the show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.   As joyful music surrounds you, a sea of twinkling lights form twirling carousels of heavenly angels, toy soldiers, a spinning Earth, and even Santa and his trusty reindeer. It’s something you have to see to believe!

Holidays Around the World 

November 29 –December 30, 2013

Walt Disney World

Share in the sights and sounds of some of the world’s greatest holiday festivities during Holidays Around the World at Epcot. Amid joyful music and seasonal food favorites, time-honored traditions come alive as costumed performers share their country’s holiday heritage throughout World Showcase.

 

Although subject to change, holiday festivities may include:

  • American Adventure
    Meet Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, celebrate the traditions of Hanukkah and discover the spirit of Kwanzaa.
  • Canada
    Follow the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs on a musical tour as you explore seasonal customs of the Great White North.
  • China
    Watch the agile Monkey King weave his tall tale with twists and turns celebrating Chinese New Year.
  • France
    Discover the magic of Père Noël and the joy of the season through a Christmas letter from a child.
  • Germany
    Listen as Helga tells the story of the first Christmas tree and the tale of her first Nutcracker.
  • Italy
    Meet the kind-hearted witch La Befana who arrives on the eve of the Epiphany to grant gifts to good children.
  • Japan
    Hear the fascinating story of the Daruma doll and the Japanese customs of the New Year.
  • Mexico
    Celebrate with Los Tres Reyes Magos, the Three Kings, as they tell of their journey to the Posada and traditions today.
  • Morocco
    Join Taarji, a Moroccan drummer, as he reflects on family traditions commemorating the holiday of Ramadan.
  • Norway
    Spend time with Sigrid and learn about Julenissen, the Christmas Gnome.
  • United Kingdom
    Share in the vivid stories of Father Christmas, dating back to 15th-century England.

Be sure to check the Times Guide for a complete list of appearances and performance times.

Candlelight Processional

November 29 – December 30, 2013

Each night, a celebrity narrator tells the biblical tale of a savior born to a virgin in Bethlehem. All the while, gorgeous choral pieces are woven into the narration as an orchestra and choir provide an inspirational backdrop with songs of hope and joy.

 

For the hearing impaired, an American Sign Language interpreter translates the legendary account, allowing Guests of all kinds the opportunity to enjoy the event.

 

This year, an exciting line-up of narrators—including a few all-new additions to the Candlelight Processional—are set to lend their voices to the storytelling, including:

  • Gary Sinise
    November 29 to December 1, 2013
  • Neil Patrick Harris
    December 2 to December 3, 2013
  • Ashley Judd – NEW! 
    December 4 to December 5
  • Whoopi Goldberg 
    December 6 to December 7, 2013
  • Sigourney Weaver – NEW!
    December 8 to December 10, 2013
  • Dennis Haysbert – NEW!
    December 11 to December 13, 2013
  • James Denton 
    December 14 to December 16, 2013
  • Edward James Olmos
    December 17 to December 19, 2013
  • Trace Adkins
    December 20 to December 22, 2013
  • Steven Curtis Chapman
    December 23 to December 25, 2013
  • Blair Underwood 
    December 26 to December 28, 2013
  • Amy Grant 
    December 29 to December 30, 2013

Show times take place 3 times during each day of the event at 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:15 PM, except on December 8, 2013, when show times take place at 6:45 PM and 8:15 PM only. Celebrity narrators, dates and other entertainment are subject to change without notice.

Festival of the Seasons

November 15 – December 29, 2013

Celebrate the holidays with live entertainment, photo opportunity and so much more!

 

The Downtown Disney area invites you to embrace the spirit of the season as you enjoy the twinkling lights, a grandiose tree and yuletide touches at every turn. Be sure to bring your little ones to see Santa Claus and then shop for unique gifts at the specialty shops.

Discover a variety of delightful diversions with plentiful holiday sights and sounds.

 

Joyous live entertainment includes:

  • Holiday carolers
  • Latin, jazz and pop performances of cherished holiday songs
  • Costumed stilt walkers and street performers
  • A lively holiday dance party with deejay

Visit with Santa
You can even visit with Santa, share holiday wish lists and enjoy a unique photo opportunity!

Jingle Jammin’ Jungle Parade

November 7, 2013 – January 2, 2014

 Walt Disney World

Ring in the season with some familiar faces in a wild, yet whimsical setting!

 

This music-filled celebration offers a seasonal twist to the popular Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade. Enjoy a harmonious mix of holiday wonderment, colorful creatures and festive music as Mickey and his friends parade through the park.

Disney’s Contemporary Gingerbread House

November 14, 2013

While the Gingerbread house is always up, you are able to purchase gingerbread goodies of your own from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Gingerbread House

November 16, 2013

 Walt Disney World

Construction of the Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is well under way, and once it its open you will be able to purchase gingerbread goodies from the house of your own from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm!

Walt Disney World Resorts

have these great decorations to come soon:

  • Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Gingerbread House
  • Disney’s Beach Club Resort Gingerbread Carousel
  • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Holiday Train and Village
  • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree
  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Christmas Tree
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Christmas Tree

If you are looking for a really unique gift, you may want to kick off your holiday shopping at this weekend’s Festival of the Masters at Downtown Disney November 8-10, 2013!

Festival of the Masters

We will be bringing you great information and photos of these great Holiday Celebrations at Walt Disney World! So make sure you follow our holiday adventures on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Wordless Wednesday: Looking Up At Castle Dream Lights

Wordless Wednesday:

Cinderella Castle Castle Dream Lights 2013

Wordless Wednesday Dream Lights

This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes us to last night’s first lighting of the Cinderella Castle Castle Dream Lights! I get goosebumps every night I see the Castle Dream Lights, but the first night is always extra special!!! I can’t wait to share more pictures as more holiday cheer arrives at the place Where Dreams Come True!

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

SeaWorld Debuts Float In The 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Paradae

 SeaWorld Debuts ‘A Sea of Surprises’ Float

In the 87th Annual Macy’s

Thanksgiving Day Parade

SeaWorld A Sea of Surprises- Macy's Parade float concept sketch main view 2013

Sculptures of sea turtles, penguins and fish among the amazing sea creatures

featured aboard new 32 foot-long float

For almost five decades, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has surprised and amazed guests with unique entertainment, thrilling rides, and up-close encounters with amazing sea life. Millions have been inspired through the power of entertainment, to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world. This Thanksgiving the beauty and majesty of the sea will come to life on the streets of New York as SeaWorld’s “A Sea of Surprises” float debuts in the 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®.

“The magicians of Macy’s Parade Studio have outdone themselves yet again with the awe-inspiring and entertaining design of the new SeaWorld float,” said Amy Kule, executive producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “With its diverse and majestic depictions of sea creatures transformed into larger-than-life form, the ‘A Sea of Surprises’ float is sure to inspire millions of children and adults to learn more about, appreciate and enjoy all forms of aquatic life.”

From sea turtles, penguins and angel fish to sharks and breaching whales, amazing sea sculptures abound on the new float. Featuring rolling ocean waves, the gentle movement of swaying kelp and a vibrant school of tropical fish, the scene will take spectators on an extraordinary undersea journey. Taking center stage on the “A Sea of Surprises” float is the iconic Shamu, breaching 27-feet above the millions of Parade spectators lining the streets of Manhattan.

“We are thrilled to debut our SeaWorld “A Sea of Surprises” float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as a tribute to SeaWorld’s 50th celebration,” said Jim Atchison, President and CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Next year the parks will commemorate this milestone with a year-long celebration at the three SeaWorld parks in San Diego, Orlando and San Antonio. We hope this festive float represents the fun, inspiration and surprises that guests will find during a visit to SeaWorld.”

Beginning next March, SeaWorld celebrates its 50th-year with a sea of surprises at all three parks that includes new interactive experiences and shows, even more up-close animal encounters throughout the park and the SeaWorld “Surprise Squad” treating guests with prizes and special experiences every day. For more information, visit www.SeaWorld.com/Celebration.

The 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airs nationwide on NBC-TV, on Thursday,November 28th from 9am-12pm, in all time zones.

SeaWorld Macy's Day Parade

About the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade:

With more than 50 million viewers across the country and more than 3.5 million spectators that line up along the streets of New York City each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a national icon that has grown into a world-famous holiday event. For more than 80 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has marked the official start of the holiday season. Growing in size and scale, the Parade proudly marches down a more than 2-mile route in New York City with more than 8,000 participants in tow including Macy’s employees, their families, celebrities, athletes, clowns and dance groups spreading holiday cheer.  The Parade also features America’s best marching bands, fabulous floats and Macy’s signature giant helium character balloons.  For more information on the Macy’s Parade please visit www.macys.com/parade or call the Parade hotline at (212) 494-4495.

 SeaWorld Park and Entertainment Logo

About SeaWorld:

SeaWorld is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care.  It operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue and rehabilitate ocean marine animals that are ill, injured and orphaned, with the goal of returning them to the wild. The SeaWorld® rescue team has helped more than 22,000 animals in need over the last four decades. The SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund has granted more than $9 million to wildlife research and conservation projects that protect wildlife and wild places. The Fund commits 100% of donations to on-the-ground wildlife conservation efforts. Learn more at www.SeaWorld.com

About SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™:

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable its customers to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share. The Company owns or licenses a portfolio of globally recognized brands including SeaWorld®, Shamu® and Busch Gardens®. Over its more than 50 year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind collection of approximately 67,000 marine and terrestrial animals. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests. In addition to its theme parks, the company has recently begun to leverage its brands into media, entertainment and consumer products.   SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: SEAS). Copies of this and other news releases as well as additional information about SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. can be obtained online at www.seaworldentertainment.com. Shareholders and prospective investors can also register to automatically receive the Company’s press releases, SEC filings and other notices by e-mail.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Celebrate Independence Day at SeaWorld Orlando

Celebrate Independence Day at SeaWorld Orlando with a special Fourth of July extravaganza and even more Summer Nights fun next Thursday, July 4!

SeaWorld Orlando Summer Nights Fourth of July

During Summer Nights, SeaWorld Orlando is open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. so there’s plenty of time to explore the sea’s mysteries, learn about amazing animals, challenge thrilling rides and watch incredible shows.

What better way to celebrate the holiday than with traditional American fare? From July 3-6, a variety of all-American food will be served along Bayside Pathway, including bacon cheeseburgers, foot-long hot dogs, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and kid meals, too.

And guests can enjoy the park even later on the Fourth of July. SeaWorld Orlando will be open until 11 p.m. giving families more time to experience the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, ride the coasters under the stars and enjoy the amazing Summer Nights shows, Sea Lions Tonite and Shamu Rocks.

There’s no other place to get your fireworks fix than at SeaWorld’s Fourth of July celebration during Summer Nights!

Beginning at 9:30 p.m., there will be an extraordinary performance at SeaWorld’s Bayside Stadium by SeaWorld Celebration Singers, an ensemble group of singers and a nine-piece band, who will perform a variety of popular music ranging from traditional marches and patriotic tunes to classical favorites. The Fourth of July celebration culminates with awe-inspiring fireworks at 10 p.m.

 Summer Nights

Additional details:

Headlining Summer Nights is the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, where guests can experience the epic world of Antarctica through the eyes of a special hero penguin named Puck; and Sea Lions Tonite, a hilarious, satirical show featuring Clyde and Seamore spoofing the other daytime SeaWorld shows that will have everyone in stitches.

New this year! Join the Party with Shamu & Friends as they dance the night away at the front of the park’s Village Square. The Party features an emcee on stilts who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. With countless bubbles floating overhead and music wafting through the air, this celebration of summer is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages!  The Party begins every night one hour prior to park close and continues 30 minutes after park closing.

Rock the night away with Shamu during a spectacular killer whale show with more flash – and certainly more splash – than a rock concert! Shamu Rocks is a high-energy celebration of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring killer whales with a stunning light show, water fountain display and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry. And new this year is an electrifying twist on this classic favorite!  The final Shamu Rocks show of the night includes a rockin’ fireworks finale will light up the night sky.

For more information go to SeaWorldOrlando.com.

 

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

It’s Going To Be A Sci Fi 4th of July in Celebration!

A Sci Fi 4th of July

Celebration Town Center ushers in A Sci Fi 4th of July

 

Celebration Town Center’s World Famous 4th of July event joins forces with MegaCon to bring the first ever A Sci Fi 4th of July to Central Florida.

Celebration Town Center’s A Sci Fi 4th of July will feature a movie themed costume contest at 7:30 PM, so come dressed as your favorite character for a chance to win big prizes. It will also feature a synchronized fireworks spectacular set to a Sci-Fi themed soundtrack, bounce houses for kids, live music by Oliver’s Queen, Jordyn Kane, DJ Tami, Gina Marie Incandela and an unforgettable tribute to our Veterans. So, get ready to dance the night away in a one of a kind, family-friendly event with a fireworks show you will be talking about for years.

There will be something for people of all ages as Town Center’s KidZone will feature an assortment of inflatable games for kids and teens that will include a jousting area, bounce houses, face painting and more.

Additional music will be offered by The Dixieland Jazz Band. This unique group, made up of former members of the “Rosie O’Grady’s Good Time Band” will offer patriotic music for the whole family to enjoy.

Sponsored in part by MegaCon, Melia Suites Hotel, The Celebration Town Tavern, Celebration Sanitation, Axis Magazine, The Orlando Sentinel and Sam Adams,  this event will be “the can’t miss place to be” this July 4th.

As always, Parking and Admission are FREE!!!!

Free Park and Ride Shuttle will be available from 215 Celebration Place.

Come early, stay late, and have fun at this year’s “A Sci-Fi 4th of July”.

A Sci Fi 4th of July – Thursday July 4th, 2013 – Schedule of Events

 

 

5:00 PM                                             Free Park and Ride Shuttle Service Begins

5:30 PM                                             Event Opens

5:30 PM                                             DJ Tami begins

6:00 PM                                             Jordyn Kane performs

6:30 PM-7:30 PM                               Oliver’s Queen performs

7:30 PM                                             Costume Contest (come dressed as your favorite Sci-Fi or Super Hero character)

7:50-9:00                                           Oliver’s Queen performs

9:00-9:25                                           A Special Salute to Veterans featuring The Seeds

9:25 PM                                             National Anthem-Gina Marie Incandela

9:30-10:00                                          Fireworks

10:00-10:30 PM                                  Oliver’s Queen performs

11:00                                                 Event Closes

For more information on Celebration Town Center and Special Events visit us at www.celebrationtowncenter.com.

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

The 2012 Walt Disney World Halloween Merchandise is Out!

I was wandering around the Grand Floridian the other day and I came across some of the 2012 Halloween merchandise.  I love being in the parks during Halloween and I can’t wait for the season to start!

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Celebrating The Fourth Of July At Walt Disney World

Patriotic fireworks displays, a rock ‘n’ roll concert, traditional outdoor activities, or your favorite characters in Patriotic Costumes, there’s a way for any and everyone in the family to celebrate the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World.

I will apologize now for the utter and total lack of pictures!!! Last year was our first Fourth here, and we stuck close to Celebration for the Fourth of July!!! But this year we are going to fix that since there are soooo many ways to celebrate at Walt Disney World!!!

Magic Kingdom Park – Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky. This special pyrotechnic show, taking the place of Wishes on both July 3rd AND 4th, will light up the sky above Cindarella’s Castle. These fireworks are AMAZING!!!!! Last year we chose to view them from a different perspective! We had an early dinner at Kona on July 3rd, and then headed out to the Polynesian Beach to enjoy them. It’s important to know that both the Polynesian and Contemporary Resorts strictly enforce entrance to guests staying there or with dining reservations! Also, if you are thinking of watching from the beach you may consider bringing your own beach towel or blanket since towels are strictly for resort guests!

Disney’s Hollywood Studios – What do you get when you mix traditional fireworks with the all-new Rockin’ 4th of July Celebration? A Fourth of July that is a cut above the rest! (Sorry for the bad landscaping pun…) Get your groove on at the Sorcerer Hat, aka BAH, with a DJ starting at 6 p.m. Then at 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. Mulch, Sweat & Shears take Guests on a musical road trip through America. Rock ‘n’ Roll hits from Memphis to Motor City will all lead up to a special fireworks presentation at 9:45 p.m. I am always a fan of Morris and the Boys taking the stage near the BAH and Fireworks in the Studios!!!! My best advice is that if you love the band, make sure you get there super early to get a great spot near the stage. However if you want a good view of both the band and fireworks, I really suggest grabbing a spot towards the center to back of the BAH area between the two lighting towers. This is an amazing spot, because you will really get to take in the spectacle that is the Fourth of July at Hollywood Studios!!! Don’t worry if you are lining up a little late, make sure you head over near the American Idol Experience jumbo screen since they typically will put video of what’s going on up there!

Epcot – Discovery Experiences at American Adventure present a bit of American history and heritage. From 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Guests may meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress. An afternoon of live entertainment kicks off at 12:30 p.m. in the America Gardens Theater with the Voices of Liberty 4th of July Concert. This holiday special is a harmonizing partnership of the 8-part a capella Voices of Liberty, Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps, and Disney characters. In the evening, the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series takes the stage with four performances from Slippery When Wet – The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute. The grand finale to these classic beats is The Heartbeat of Freedom, a special tribute in the sky following Illuminations: Reflections of Earth at 10 p.m. We’ll be spending our Fourth of July in Epcot this year, and I am beyond excited to catch all of these great experiences…especially the Voices of Liberty Fourth of July Concert!!!!

It’s also important to note that both Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney will not feature fireworks.

Two resorts that really get into the spirit of celebrating the Fourth of July are Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge! If you are a guest staying at these resorts, you may want to consider joining in the fun while you are there!!!

The schedule for activities at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground on July 3rd is as follows:

  • 10:15-11 a.m.: Patriotic Craft
    Show off your creativity with this fun Independence themed craft. Meet at Pavilion at Meadow Swimming Pool.
  • 11 a.m.-noon: Acorn Toss Dodge ball
    Join us in the field by Meadow Swimming Pool for our fun twist on Dodge ball.
  • 1:15-2 p.m.: What’s in your beach bag?
    Bring your beach bags and get ready for an exciting poolside game!
  • 2-3 p.m.: Giant Board Games
    Oversized games mean twice the fun! At Meadow Swimming Pool.
  • 3-4 p.m.: Pool Party
    Our daily poolside party! Games, dancing, fun and prizes!
  • 4-5 p.m.: Splash Ball
    All the fun of baseball with a soaking twist!
  • 6-9 p.m. Independence Eve Beach Party at Clementine Beach:
  • 6-7 p.m.: Sandcastle Building Contest – You provide the tools and creativity and we’ll provide cool prizes!
  • 7-8 p.m.: Dance Party – Celebrate America’s Birthday by dancing the night away!
  • 8-9 p.m.: BINGO – Free BINGO on the beach!
  • 9 p.m.: Disney Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky!
    A special Independence Day fireworks celebration at the Magic Kingdom Park visible from Clementine Beach
  • 7 p.m.: Red Light, Green Light
  • 7:30 p.m.: Campfire Lighting
  • 8 p.m.: Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-a-Long
  • 8:40 p.m. Movie – National Treasure at the Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-a-long

The schedule for activities at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground on July 4th is as follows:

  • 11 a.m.-noon: Red and Blue Noodle Races
    Join us at the Meadow Swimming Pool for fun relay races in the water!
  • 1-2 p.m.: Design your own Kites ($5)
    Create your own cool kite then fly them in the field nearby. Meet at the Bike Barn.
  • 2-3 p.m.: Goofy Bingo
    Can you match the all the Disney characters? Get five in a row for a chance to win fun prizes.
  • 3-4 p.m.: Pool Party
    Our daily poolside party. Games, dancing, fun and prizes!
  • 4-4:30 p.m. Chalk Art
    Meet at Meadow Swimming Pool to create a red, white and blue display.
  • 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Make Your Ice Cream ($4)
    Shake your way to a super delicious dessert! Meet at the Bike Barn.
  • 7 p.m.: Corn Toss
    Meet at the Campfire theatre for this fun tailgating game.
  • 7:30 p.m.: Campfire Lighting
  • 8 p.m.: Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-a-Long
  • 8:40 p.m.: Movie – Homeward Bound
  • 9 p.m.: Golf Cart Parade
    Register at the Bike Barn by 7 p.m. Parade will travel down Fort Wilderness Trail toward Pioneer Hall.

The Fourth of July activities at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge look super fun!!!

  • 1 p.m. Patriotic Craft – Come on over to the party cart by the pool, and make a patriotic memory to take home.
  • 2 p.m. Red White and Blue Pitchburst – Join us for our very favorite hot weather game. Hit the target to break a giant water balloon over a volunteer’s head.
  • 3 p.m. Big Blast Pool Party – Join us by the party cart for lots of fast paced poolside holiday fun and a treasure box prize.
  • 4 p.m. Big Beach Party Begins!!!
  • 4 – 4:45 p.m.: Sand Castle Contest (awards from 4:45-5:00).Bring your team (or join one on the spot) and show us your creativity and construction skills and maybe even win a prize!
  • 5 – 6:30 p.m.: Make Your Own Ice Cream. Join us on the beach for this super sweet deal! We will show you how to make your own ice cream. In a matter of minutes you can mix, shake and eat!
  • 6:30 – 7 p.m. Splash and Score This is another fun hot weather game. Come show us your skills!
  • 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. Campfire Fourth of July tradition means a campfire on the beach! Come on down and join us for campfire fun, followed by fireworks and a patriotic movie on the beach.
  • 9 p.m. – Fireworks Enjoy the movie, “National Treasure”, immediately following the fireworks.

However you decide to spend the Fourth of July, we hope that you have a very safe and fun holiday full of food, fireworks, and great memories!

We’ll be tweeting pictures and information about the festivities starting on July 3rd, so make sure you follow us on @onthegoinmco and like our Facebook page for all the fun!!!

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Sneak Peek At The 2012 Disney Park Trading Pins

One of the coolest perks of attending a DVC Merry Mixer, Thank you Todd and Cheryl Perlmutter, is that you get a sneak peek at some of the pins and accessories that will be available in the upcoming months.

I am in LOVE with the Annual Passholder Key Pins!!!

I hope that you love this sneak peek at the 2012 Pins!!!

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

2011 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Merchandise

This year’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party was an absolute blast!!!

Who wouldn’t love a party filled with snow, hot chocolate, Christmas music…and pretty cool party exclusive merchandise!!!

While I will talk about the party itself some more soon, I hope that you enjoy a peek at this year’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Merchandise!!!

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

2011 Holiday Merchandise Spotlight on Vinylmations

I thought that I would end the week off with a look at the 2011 Holiday Viynlmations…The Jingle Smells!

These 3 inch scented Vinyls have poseable arms and hands like the regular Vinylmations, but they also feature a hook to allow you to hang them on your tree.

Jingle Smell Vinylmations are in open window tubes (instead of boxes), and are available in Chocolate, Gingerbread, Marshmallow, and Peppermint Candy Cane.

These Vinyls are soooooooooo super cute!!! I am normally not a fan, but I think I might have to get these bad boys to add to the tree!!!

Chocolate Vinylmation - Front

 

Chocolate Vinylmation - Back

 

Peppermint Candy Cane Vinylmation - Front

 

Peppermint Candy Cane Vinylmation - Back

 

Marshmallow Snowman Vinylmation - Front

 

Marshmallow Snowman Vinylmation - Back

 

Gingerbread Man Vinylmation - Front

 

Gingerbread Man Vinylmation - Back

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

2011 Holiday Merchandise Spotlight on Antenna Toppers and Pins

It’s that time again…Merchandise, Merchandise, Merchandise!!!

I thought that I would do things a little different for this holiday! Instead of clobbering you with a ton of photos in one post, I thought that I would break my posts up in hopes of not being overwhelming.

So let’s get this holiday shopping season started with Antenna Toppers and Pins!!!

First up, the Antenna Toppers!!!

 

The holiday antenna toppers!

 

I love the Angel Topper!!!

 

The back of the Angel Topper.

 

This guy is soooo cute!!!

 

So sparkly!!!!!

 

And now for the Holiday Pins and Lanyard!!!

This is so fancy!!!

 

Mickey Claus!

 

Minnie Claus!

 

Here comes Mickey!!!

 

Soooo cute!!!

 

It's a Mickey Snowman!!!

 

I am absolutely loving the pie-eyed Mickey & Minnie!!!

 

The whole gang is here!

 

You can never go wrong with Tink!

 

Wayne & Lanny! Love me some Prep & Landing!!!

 

The Hanukkah Pin! ** This is not the 2011 pin. That pin will be released 11/24/2011**

 

The lanyards seem to be a little longer this year, but the print on them is super cute!

 

A close up of the lanyard print.

 

A closer look at the bottom of the lanyard.

 

Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram