Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks

Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks are the newest addition to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and I am really excited to share them with you!

During the fireworks show, Minnie Mouse is our host and she is inviting everyone to come together in a celebration of the magic of Christmas.

The sky above Cinderella Castle fills with fireworks, as medleys of beloved holiday songs, from “Joy to the World” and “Deck the Halls” to “Up on the House Top” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” echo throughout the Magic Kingdom.

The music of the show evokes heartfelt moments of home and family, as well as the festive fun of the season, all building to an incredible finale.

KEEP IN MIND!!!!

Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks only happen ONCE during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, so if seeing them is important to you make sure that you keep an eye on the time as you are exploring the park.

Hot Take…

Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2019

This show is visually stunning, but unlike the Disney Not So Spooky Spectacular during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party there is no ‘physical’ host for you to watch so if you can’t get up close and center to the castle…don’t worry! Just stand back and enjoy them from any vantage point you can.

If you are looking for a SUPER unique way to see Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, head over to new Fantasyland just outside of the Be Our Guest Restaurant and watch them fly over Beast’s castle. You won’t see the projections, but the vantage point is really neat!

I’m smitten with Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, because they are like a holiday hug from Minnie!

I 10/10 recommend!!!

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Holidays in the Parks: Walt Disney World Resort 2019

DISCLOSURE: I was invited by the Walt Disney World Resort to find out more about the holiday season, but all opinions are my own.
Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July

The 2019 Walt Disney World holiday season begins on November 8th with returning favorites as well as the debut of all-new seasonal offerings in all four parks and Disney Springs.

The holidays at Walt Disney World are filled with special live entertainment, characters in festive garb, seasonal décor, holiday treats, specialty eats, miles of garlands and decorations, and a shimmering castle to lift holiday spirits.

To help you plan your trip to Walt Disney World during the holidays, here is a look at holiday happenings throughout the four parks and Disney Springs!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Joins in the Holiday Fun for the First Time

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will introduce the biggest holiday season in its two-decade history, with festive new entertainment and holiday décor in every land. Daytime and nighttime, guests will experience the majesty of nature and holiday magic. 

Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Rendering, Walt Disney World Resort

Here is some of what’s in store:

  • In the heart of the park, on Discovery Island, guests will find themselves immersed in a magical scene. By day, stylized, life-sized animal puppets mingle with villagers who make the island their home. As day becomes night, rooftop luminaries in animal shapes and bird lanterns throughout Discovery Island will bring a warm glow to the village.
  • As the sun sets, the Tree of Life will awaken with a series of wintry tales emerging from within, backed by a familiar and heartwarming holiday musical score. Between awakening moments, the Tree of Life will shimmer and sparkle throughout the night, alive with the magic of nature and the spirit of the holidays.
  • Dinoland, U.S.A. will rock out with the DJ-led “Holiday Hoopla Dance Party with Chip ‘n Dale” and plenty of interactive fun and games. Throughout the land, characters gathered for “Donald’s Dino-Bash!” will get in the holiday spirit with colorful costumes.
  • Diwali, the Holiday Festival of Lights in India, has inspired the residents of Anandapur in Glowing flowers, lanterns and more will illuminate the main square leading to the waterfront stage, home to authentic and colorful cultural performances.
Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Walt Disney World Resort
  • The village of Harambe in Africa will welcome guests with a unique holiday presentation, fusing Western traditions with the colors and texture of authentic African celebrations; colorful costuming and new music flavors each performance.
  • Tusker House diners get their merry on as Safari Donald Duck and his pals spread holiday cheer.
  • Guests will find out-of-this-world Christmastime fun at Pandora – The World of Avatar. Ex-pats living and working on the moon of Pandora roll out seasonal fun with a display at Pongu Pongu of kitschy holiday décor, pairing vintage pieces from Earth with items handcrafted from materials indigenous to Pandora.
  • Christmas tree will tower over the park entrance. Decorated with traditional ornaments and hidden animals, the tree is a prelude to the holiday magic that awaits inside the park.
Magic Kingdom Park to Unveil New Holiday Fireworks Show & Attraction Overlays

The skies above Magic Kingdom Park will sparkle to life this holiday season as visions of fireworks dance in the air during an all-new nighttime show – Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. Hosted by Minnie Mouse, the holiday extravaganza invites guests to come together in a celebration of heartfelt moments and the magic of Christmas.

Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Walt Disney World Resort

The show will be presented during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which takes place select dates Nov. 8-Dec. 22, and nightly Dec. 23-29.

Also, for the first time ever during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, select Magic Kingdom attractions are receiving special enhancements just for the holidays!

Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Walt Disney World Resort
  • When you get behind the wheel on the Tomorrowland Speedway, you’ll find yourself cruising a festive freeway filled with thousands of lights and stylized décor.
  • The crew at Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor is putting some “Ha Ha Ha” in their “Ho Ho Ho,” with a new show for everyone visiting the Monster World during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. 
  • Space Mountain launches you on a trippy jaunt through the cosmos, filled with dazzling lighting and high-energy holiday tunes.
  • Mad Tea Party in Fantasyland becomes a wild and wacky Christmas party, as you spin your teacups to one of four new holiday combos of lights and music.

This holiday season will also see Magic Kingdom transformed into an enchanting wonderland with dazzling decorations, holiday treats, a shimmering ice castle and more. Returning holiday favorites include:

  • With glittery Cinderella Castle as its centerpiece, Magic Kingdom shines its brightest during the holidays. Guests will be swept into a magical scene of seasonal music, characters in their festive finery and fireworks bursting above. During A Frozen Holiday Wish stage show, Queen Elsa magically transforms Cinderella Castle with glistening ice.
  • Holiday Fireworks Dessert Parties are a sweet way to enjoy the new holiday fireworks. Offered nightly, each festive party includes seasonal treats and dazzling views of the new fireworks spectacular. Dessert parties are not included with theme park admission. For schedules, pricing information and reservations, guests can visit DisneyWorld.com or call (407) WDW-DINE.
Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July  Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2018
Ryan Wendler, photographer
  • Each of the 23 nights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will feature performances of Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime ParadeA Totally Tomorrowland Christmas and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show. Guests will also experience select rides and attractions (including the “Jingle Cruise”), savor complimentary treats, discover event-exclusive merchandise and delight to a magical “snowfall” on Main Street, U.S.A.
  • Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates: November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22. For more information and ticketing, guests can call (407) 939-1872 or visit Disneyworld.com.
Beloved Epcot Candlelight Processional Begins November 29 as Highlight of Holiday Festival

Joyous Yuletide traditions from across the globe are at the heart of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. 

November 2018 Theme Park Events - Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Walt Disney Word Resort

From November 29 through December 30, 2019, merry-makers will be immersed in a vast world of holiday decorations and entertainment, themed merchandise, festive cuisine and costumed storytellers in many of the 11 World Showcase nations including:

  • Epcot’s grandest holiday tradition – the Candlelight Processional – features the retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator backed by a 50-piece orchestra and massed choir. Performances will run three times nightly during the festival. Narrators already announced for this year include Whoopi Goldberg, Pat Sajak, Steven Curtis Chapman and Edward James Olmos. More narrators will be announced in the coming months. Dining packages include guaranteed seating for the holiday event and can be booked starting July 3 by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
  • Special Holiday Kitchens sprinkled throughout World Showcase will serve up tasty treats inspired by treasured holiday recipes from across the globe.
Epcot International Festival of Holidays Must Do’s and Tips 2018 Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
  • World Showcase pavilions will come alive with the sights and sounds of special entertainment celebrating each country’s holiday heritage.
  • Chip & Dale are gathering ornaments for their Christmas tree and guests can join in the fun! To be part of Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree Scavenger Hunt, guests will purchase a map and stickers from select merchandise outlets and scout World Showcase locations looking for the famous chipmunks and their ornaments. Completed maps are returned for a special festive surprise, courtesy of the chipmunk duo.
  • Epcot guests can quite literally do their holiday shopping around the world. The World Showcase pavilions are filled with favorite fragrances, jewelry, toys, stocking stuffers and more.
  • Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet guests at The American Adventure pavilion.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Glitters with Special Holiday Entertainment

Holiday adventures begin at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as new attractions, and lands turn this theme park into one big holiday gift. 

Flurry of Fun Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World New Year's Eve Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Walt Disney World

Add seasonal shows, enchanting “snowfalls,” décor and more, and it’s easy to see how holidays here become extraordinary:

  • Park guests will be mesmerized by the Sunset Seasons Greetings show projected onto the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Boasting amazing laser effects and “snow,” the experience also includes stories, songs and cheer courtesy of favorite Disney friends.
  • The nighttime spectacular “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” will treat holiday-goers to iconic music, fireworks, special effects and state-of-the-art projections to create a one-of-a-kind holiday experience at the iconic Chinese Theatre. To add a sweet touch, guests will be able to make reservations for the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Dessert Party. This event is not included with theme park admission, and pricing and reservation information will be available later this year.
Flurry of Fun Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
  • Holiday touches and festive décor throughout the park will include seasonal fun inside Toy Story Land, as well as joyous greetings from Santa or Santa Goofy.
  • As a curtain-closer, Olaf delivers a special holiday finale in For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along.
Disney Springs Delivers Season’s Greetings

Perfect for this special time of year, the Disney Springs retail, dining and entertainment district is where guests can make a holiday list and check it twice as they breeze among dozens of trendy brand-name stores and a large and varied collection of Disney merchandise. They can also indulge the holiday hungries at great dining spots that will also serve up seasonal cheer.

November 2018 Theme Park Events - Holidays at Disney Springs Christmas 2019 Walt Disney World Holidays 2019 Christmas in July
Walt Disney Word Resort

Live entertainment will include the spectacle of toy soldier stilt walkers, carolers and Living Statues in holiday attire. Holiday decorations set the colorful stage for Disney Springs festivities, which run November 8 through January 5, 2020:

  • Guests strolling the Christmas Tree Trail will be treated to custom-decorated holiday trees, each dedicated to a popular Disney theme featuring favorite Disney characters.
  • Guests will be invited to join in Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt and discover where the mischievous Experiment 626 is hiding.
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A first timer’s look into Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Castle

Friday was the kick off night for the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! I had always read about this night, and always wanted to go but each year put it off thinking it was maybe just for kids. Well last month we were lucky enough to go to the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and you really didnt need kids to enjoy that one, you just may need to BE a big kid! Which was perfect for me! So we figured now was the best time to go to the Christmas Party and see what that one was all about!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Snow on Main Street

As soon as you get your wristband and enter the park, it strikes you how they go all out for Christmas, the decor was just incredible. It might only be November on the calander but in my heart it was already late December! The lights, the wreathes, the music, the smells, everything screams holidays as soon as you enter into the park! I was very excited to see that on Main Street it was even snowing, in Florida, snowing! it was perfect and really got me into the Christmas Spirit!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party hotchoc

The first place we headed was to the free Hot Chocolate and Cookies, you can look these up on the park map and also look out for the giant inflatable candy cane that shows you where they are being served. The hot chocolate place we first went to was by the Pirates Of The Caribbean ride, and was extremely hot. Luckily this made me remove the lid and I noticed marshmallows on the top, which I wish they had stated on the signs as being a vegetarian I cannot eat these. Fortunately everyone else in our party could, so after that I just made sure I requested mine without.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party jingle

Next we headed over to the Jungle Cruise, which, for the first time ever, had been converted into the Jingle Cruise featuring a holiday overlay. The ride was all Christmas themed from the names on the boats to the decorations on the props and the jokes told by the skippers. During the ride there are not many changes to the actual scenes, so guests who have not ridden the Jungle Cruise before would still be able to enjoy this classic ride with only a few Christmas themed jokes thrown in.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party minnie

By this time we thought we should try get a space for Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, as it was a sold out night so we knew it was going to be busy. We ended up not really finding a great place to stand, but luckily we could still see over people enough to enjoy all the floats. It was really fun seeing all the characters in holiday attire, but my favorite part in the whole parade was without a doubt the toy soldiers…

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party toysoldiers

I just loved their little routines, their attire and they seemed to have so much personality and flair! Plus you knew once you saw them that Santa was going to be next as he is featured on the last float.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party santa

Once the parade ended we walked over to the Hub to get in place for the Celebrate The Magic show on Cinderella’s Castle, which I had seen some of this before but I had never stood in the middle for it with such a fantastic view before!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party waltcastle

The show was everything it promised to be..magical! I loved every moment of it, from Tinkerbell flying out, to Walt’s face right there on the castle, the effects were just so beautiful!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party gingercastle

The Christmas part at the end was really cool to see, my favorite part was this photo above, where they made the castle look like a giant gingerbread castle! It looked so real!

After the show we decided to stay in the same spot as it would be a great place for the fireworks! I am lucky enough to see the fireworks every day from home, but I rarely get to see them from right on front of the castle like this, its truly a wonderful experience.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party castlewow

I loved how they mixed the fireworks together with the Celebrate The Magic projections too, especially when it made it look like the fireworks were being set off right in front of the castle, when really it was behind!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party castleworks

A great tip if you want to feel part of the show, is if you purchase the new Glow With The Show ears, the ears actually light up in synch with the fireworks and castle show, as can be seen in this photo above! You simply turn them on and they all coordinate, so it really adds another element to the show to enjoy as you get to participate with it.

httpv://youtu.be/9yN5SligZY0

Once we had enjoyed the fireworks we were all pretty tired so we decided on a loop around on the TTA and another stop for hot chocolate and cookies. I came home pretty exhausted but it was very worth it, this was my first time doing this party and it sure won’t be my last!

Tickets are on sale now and do require separate admission to get in. It is running already on select nights up until December 20th, but start looking now as they do tend to sell out some nights.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party popcorn

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Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Returns Friday

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns this week to the Magic Kingdom on Friday. I am so looking forward to this special event as it is the kickoff for the holiday season in the parks for me. Separate tickets are required for admission to the party. The event takes place select nights in November and December and runs from 7pm to midnight. Advance tickets are available at a discount for most nights with a savings of $5 per ticket, and select dates also offer military, DVC and AP discounts.

I can’t wait to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this Friday night for several reasons. One, the new Jingle Cruise is debuting. We rarely (if ever) get holiday overlays here at Walt Disney World and this is one I am excited about. I really enjoy the Jungle Cruise and its background music from the 1930s/40s is great. I hope they match that era of Christmas music in the queue as it is some of my favorite music. I think it will be especially cool to compare the Jingle Cruise here to the overlay in Disneyland in a few weeks.

My favorite part of the party by far is the Once Upon A Christmastime Parade. It takes place twice during the evening at 8:15 and 10:30pm and starts in Frontierland and ends on Main Street. If you get a chance, I highly recommend watching from Main Street with a view of Cinderella Castle. This makes for awesome pictures with the castle dream lights and the “snow” on Main Street. Seeing the characters all dressed up in their Christmas costumes is fantastic! It really makes it feel like Christmas to me during this parade ending with a certain jolly fellow.

Once Upon A Christmastime Parade
Once Upon A Christmastime Parade

Donald and Daisy
Donald and Daisy

Chip and Dale
Chip and Dale

Soldiers
Soldiers

Mickey, Minnie and Duffy
Mickey, Minnie and Duffy

Santa
Santa

Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season is a special fireworks show at 9:30pm on Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party nights. A new enhancement this year will feature the new to Walt Disney World Glow With The Show Ears that will change colors along with the fireworks. I have yet to see the ears here, but saw a small sampling last summer at Disney California Adventure during of World of Color, so I think it should be cool.

Holiday Wishes
Holiday Wishes

Holiday Wishes tree
Holiday Wishes tree

Holiday Wishes fan
Holiday Wishes fan

Lights
Lights

Castle Dream Lights
Castle Dream Lights

Main Street
Main Street

Also new this year will be a Sorcerer’s of the Magic Kingdom card exclusive to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party featuring Huey, Dewey and Louie. As much as I hate to admit it, I’ve only played Sorcerer’s once, but I love collecting the cards, so I am looking forward to this special edition card. Of course another favorite aspect of the party is the included hot chocolate and cookies. There are also dance parties, stage shows and most attractions are open during the party.

What is your favorite part of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party? Will you be attending this year? Some of us will be there for the first party of the year on Friday, which is already sold out. If you’ll be there, come say hi!Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Disney Floral and Gifts has a new website!

If you haven’t already noticed, Disney Floral and Gifts has an all new website!

www.disneyfloralandgifts.com

The new site launched a few weeks ago to great reviews, and is much more user friendly.

One exciting new feature is that you can now order any of Disney Floral’s Magical In Room Celebrations directly from the site, which was previously not possible.

Disney Floral and Gifts In Room Celebrations
Disney Floral and Gifts In Room Celebrations

When choosing your gift you can even add that extra magical touch by personalizing your gift with embroidery on many of the items. Disney Floral and Gifts have even added thread color and font styles to the options now, so you can be sure to achieve the exact look you’d like.

If for some reason you don’t see a gift that’s exactly what you’d like, you can create your own basket now. Just use the “Custom Gift Builder” tab, and from there you can select the type of bag or container you’d like to use. Then you can go ahead and fill it as you desire, they have also added lots of snacks and little extras so you can now customize your gifts and create the perfect basket!

Custom baskets
Custom baskets

New items for fall and Halloween have already been added for you to order, and their Mickey’s Spooktacular In Room Celebration is not one to be missed! This year Disney Floral even added Halloween pillow cases, which can be embroidered, so guests can take these home and use them each year!

Mickeys Spooktacular
Mickeys Spooktacular

One exciting new item is their Cinderella slipper! This slipper is actually crystal and now has a little heart on the front that has a blue light underneath, so when switched on the slipper glows blue like Cinderella’s dress!

Crystal slipper
Crystal slipper

Soon enough they will be adding their Winter offerings for Christmas and Hanukkah so be sure to check back regularly to Disney Floral and Gifts for new exciting gift ideas!Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Merchandise – 2012

With Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party well under way, I thought it was a perfect time to take a look at the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party exclusive merchandise!

As they did with Mickey’s No So Scary Halloween Party Merchandise, Walt Disney World has released a series of pins for the party that you can buy individually or in a set. This year the ‘completer pin’ to the set, which features Duffy, is only available in the box and framed sets.

This year at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, they are also offering a special Annual Passholder pin. I really like the design of this pin, and appreciate that it is a little less expensive than the other pins available.

The short sleeved t-shirt, long sleeved t-shirt, and sweatshirt all feature the same design, and are available in green and red. I really feel like Disney missed an opportunity to make some really fun shirts that were a little more ornate like they did at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. But that being said, these are definitely made of a thicker t-shirt material and better suited for winter layering.

Shopping is always the first thing we do at the parties, and I still encourage you to do the same if buying party exclusive merch is your thing! The shirts and sweatshirts seem to always go first, but don’t hesitate if you see a pin that you have to own!!!

I hope that you enjoy this look at the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party exclusive merchandise!

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Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2012

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

This was my second time attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World but my first as an Orlando local.  As with most special events, it was almost if not completely sold out, so be sure to arrive as soon as the party begins at 7 PM, though party goers can usually enter the Magic Kingdom as early as 4 PM.  I attended on Thursday November 15 and it was slightly chilly by Florida standards which only added to the festivity of the party.  Because there are so many “extras” reserved just for party nights, I did not ride any attractions.  There is exclusive merchandise available, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, character photo opportunities and dance parties, special Holiday shows, Holiday Wishes and the not-to-be-missed Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Chip and Dale during the Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.

Starting with merchandise, you will find party exclusive pins and apparel in the Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A. and at various shops throughout the park.  Pins are typically located at the registers and on the night I attended, these party exclusive items were not released until all the day guests had exited the park.  The shirts are very popular but I did see some still available in Tomorrowland at the end of the evening.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party exclusive pins.

In terms of dining during the party, quick service is the way to go.  Table service meals will take away from valuable party time.  Check the party guide map because only certain dining locations are open.  There’s always my favorite way to go which is to skip dinner and just enjoy the complimentary chocolate chip cookies, snicker doodles and hot cocoa instead.  The party guide map lists all the Holiday Treat locations.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Cookies!!!

The entertainment is the big draw of the Christmas party.  The “Celebrate the Season” Show takes place at the Cinderella Castle Stage three times during the party while “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Show” is presented five times nightly on the Tomorrowland Stage.  There’s a character dance party in Liberty Square and also in Tomorrowland.  Be sure to visit the Town Square Theater on Main Street, U.S.A. for a great holiday photo opportunity with Mickey and Minnie in their holiday best.  The Cast Members gave me plenty of time and allowed me to do Photo Pass and also use my personal camera.  Finally don’t miss Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade which debuts twice during the party.  As with all parades, the first one is typically the most crowded and prime viewing locations fill up quickly.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Celebrate the Season Show

As with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is about the ambiance in the park, the snow falling on Main Street, U.S.A., the Christmas music wafting through the park, the holiday treats, and all the magical holiday entertainment reserved especially for party goers.  As a now-local, I found the party to be a great way to strictly enjoy the magic of Christmas at Walt Disney World without feeling rushed and pressured to ride all my favorite attractions as I can do that at any other time.  My advice, even if you are visiting the party as part of your vacation, is to focus on the party specific events and special offerings.  It’s truly a magical time and is truly jam packed with holiday festivities.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is held select nights in November and December and often times sell out.  Tickets went on sale on May 1, 2012 for this year’s parties.  There are advance purchase discounts as well as discounts for Passholders, DVC Members, and military personnel on select nights. So don your festive holiday attire, grab your family and friends and head to the Magic Kingdom for a great way to kick off your holiday celebrations.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Don’t forget to grab your SotMK exclusive card at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!
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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!!!

 

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Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Primer

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, MVMCP, is an absolute blast!!! I love these hard ticket events at the Magic Kingdom, but I always feel like there is almost too much to do and take in for just a few hours!

What I am going to try to do is give you a rundown of the things that I consider MUSTS and tips to make sure that you get it all done without going wacky nu-nu! 🙂

PARTY TIME!

The party officially kicks off at 7:00 pm, but you can get your party wristbands at 4:30 from the special event labeled turnstiles at the main entrance or if you are in the parks you can get them in Tomorrowland at Stitch’s Great Escape.

I would suggest getting to the Magic Kingdom on the earlier side, as you will be able to go to rides that are not open during the party. Our favorite ride to catch before the party is the Jungle Cruise, because the experience of cruising along is definitely different and wonderful after dark! Also you will get a chance to take pictures of the holiday decorations, because as the party gets underway there will be special decorations added just for the party!

But the most important thing to do once you arrive is to look at the party map and get a lay of the land. You’ll definitely want to go in with your priorities (Entertainment, Characters, Merchandise, or Attractions), and this is the perfect time to take a moment to make a game plan everyone can agree on and follow.

ENTERTAINMENT, PARADES, AND FIREWORKS…OH MY!!!

I’ve got to be honest; this is my favorite part and major reason to attend MVMCP!!!

Zoe loves the special dance parties that are held in Liberty Square and Fantasyland!  They are full of fun music and characters in their holiday finest shaking it on the dance floor with the kids (and adults)! At Woody’s Hootin’ holiday Open House at The Diamond Horseshoe, kids can dance with Woody, Jessie, and their Toy Story friends. Then at Cosmic Ray’s Jingle, Dance, and Play in Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe you might get to meet some Citizens of Tomorrowland! You definitely should drop in for a few minutes to experience this fun!!!

Also on the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland is “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” Show (7:45, 8:45, 9:55, 10:50, & 11:45) featuring song and dance numbers from Buzz Lightyear, Mike Wazowski, and Stitch. It is definitely a cute show to catch a peek at as you are walking through.

On the Castle Forecourt Stage “Celebrate the Seasons” show (7:45, 10:05, & 11:20) features the Princesses and your favorite Disney characters.

The two biggies, at least for me, are the parade and fireworks!!!

“Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade” that steps off in Frontierland at 8:15 & 10:30 is full of festive fun! I absolutely love this parade, because the characters are decked out in their holiday finest and the music is super memorable and fun. If you aren’t bouncing around and smiling by the end of it, you might want to see if Scrooge McDuck has any positions available! 🙂 The second parade at 10:30 is a lot less crowded, but I would still suggest getting a spot for the parade at the same time as you do for the fireworks.

Speaking of which…”Holiday Wishes – Celebrate the Spirit of the Season” is a fireworks SPECTACULAR that starts at 9:30. My biggest piece of advice for watching this show is to look up to make sure that you aren’t obstructed by trees and buildings!!! I love “Wishes”…but I bring 2 hankies for “Holiday Wishes”!!!

SPECIAL CHARACTERS TO VISIT

During the MVMCP there are four areas to meet special characters that are out JUST for the party.

The first area is located in front of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Fantasyland. At this location you’ll find Tigger, Piglet, and Winnie the Pooh in their holiday finest in front of some greenery.

The others two areas are located in Toontown. Mickey and Minnie are in the Judges Tent, and Mickey is in a green holiday suit and Minnie is in a festive red dress. You will find the Princes have joined their Princesses in their usual Toontown Meet and Greet home.

The last Meet and Greet is located in the stroller parking area in Fantasyland (just to the left of its A Small World), and here you will find the Seven Dwarves decked out for the holidays!!!!

I would STRONGLY suggest visiting these guys during the first parade, before you scope out a spot for the fireworks and second parade.

EXCLUSIVE MERCHANDISE & PARTY PERKS

Spread around the Magic Kingdom, you will find five stores/kiosks selling MVMCP exclusive merchandise. The merchandise is what you would expect; pins, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc.

At Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, there are seven areas where you can pick up free hot chocolate and cookies. The hot chocolate is actually really good, and the sugar cookies were moist and delicious!!! Our favorite spot to stop was in Adventureland, in the Adventureland Veranda, where you could meet Lilo with a Hawaiian Christmas backdrop (complete with a sandman).

WHAT CAN I RIDE?

Below you’ll find a list of the rides that are operating by land!

Adventureland:

Pirates of the Caribbean

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

Swiss Family Treehouse

Frontierland:

Splash Mountain

Country Bear Jamboree

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Liberty Square:

The Haunted Mansion

Hall of Presidents

Fantasyland:

Peter Pan’s Flight

Prince Charming Regal Carousel

It’s a Small World

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Mad Tea Party

Snow White’s Scary Adventure

Mickey’s Toontown Fair:

The Barnstormer at Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm

Tomorrowland:

Tomorrowland Speedway

Space Mountain

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Monsters Inc. Laughing Floor – Last Showing is at 10 pm

Astro Orbiter

Stitch’s Great Escape

Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover

While most of the rides are open, the ones that aren’t operating are: Jungle Cruise and Enchanted Tiki Room in Adventureland; Walt Disneyworld Railroad, Country Bear Jamboree, and Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland; Liberty Square Riverboat in Liberty Square; Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.

GETTING A BITE TO EAT!

Main Street USA:

Casey’s Corner – Hot Dogs, Cracker Jacks

Main Street Sweets – Candy

Frontierland:

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn – Burgers, Salads, Wraps, etc. (closes at 10:00 pm)

Turkey Leg Cart – Turkey Legs

Westward Ho – Quick Bites

Frontierland Churros & Pretzels

Liberty Square:

Sleepy Hollow – Mickey Waffles, Funnel Cakes, Treats, Drinks

Fantasyland:

Storybook Treats – Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Drinks

Tomorrowland:

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café – Cheeseburgers & Chicken

The Lunching Pad – Hot Dogs, Pretzels, Chips, Drinks (Frozen Coke here is AWESOME)

BEFORE I FORGET…

First off, this is a party for EVERYONE!!! If you are traveling solo, don’t have kids, have as many kids as the Duggars, or if you don’t celebrate Christmas you should totally feel comfortable at the party! While it is super Christmassy, it is more of a “familiar” Christmas that kind of wraps around you like a warm blanket.

Since the party starts on the earlier side and there aren’t too many places that will be open to eat (and you really don’t want to take too much time away from the party happenings), I strongly suggest eating an early lunch and then when you get there you should grab a quick bite to eat and calm any munchies with the hot chocolate & cookies. This has proven to be the most time effective way for us to move along.

TAKE LOTS OF PICTURES!!!!! Don’t forget that a lot of what you will see at the party you won’t see tomorrow at the Magic Kingdom so don’t rely on coming back for a picture of that later!!! I have done this too many times and it breaks my heart just thinking about everything that I have missed!!!!

NOW THAT YOU’VE GOT ME INTERESTED, WHEN CAN I GO TO MVMCP & HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Dates*

November 2010 December 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010 Thursday, December 2, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010 Friday, December 3, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010 Sunday, December 5, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010 Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010 Thursday, December 9, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 201
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010

*Advance Purchase Price not available on 12/7, 12/10, 12/12, 12/17, 12/19. All other select nights, when purchased prior to the day of the event: $53.95 + tax (Ages 10+) $47.95 + tax (Ages 3 – 9); Day-Of Event Prices: $59.95 + tax (Ages 10+) $53.95 + tax (Ages 3 – 9);

I hope that this super crazy post helps you plan your time at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!!! I’ll be posting my pictures later on this weekend, and I hope that when you go that you share your pictures with me, too!!!

 

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