With the reopening of places like Disney Springs and Universal Orlando’s CityWalk requiring guests to wear face coverings, I thought I’d share an easy, no-sew mask that I found on the Cricut website that you can make with something you have in your closet…a t-shirt!!!
How to Make a No-Sew T-Shirt Mask Perfect for the Theme Parks
Step 1: Cut out the appropriate size mask template for your project.
Step 2: Fold your t-shirt in half down the center of the garment. Do not use the side seams.
Step 3: Layout the t-shirt on a flat surface and smooth out the wrinkles by hand.
Step 4: Plan out where you would like to cut from the t-shirt.
Tip: With the proper planning, you can get quite a few masks from each t-shirt!
Step 5: Place your mask template along the fold of the t-shirt.
Tip: Using straight pins to secure your pattern to the t-shirt can make cutting your pattern out easier.
Step 6: Use scissors to cut around the pattern.
Tip: Don’t stress about making the cuts perfectly at first, because it’s super easy to go back and clean-up any areas.
Step 7: To cut the slits, fold the fabric & template so that the slits can be cut easily.
Tip: Use smaller scissors for a more precise cut.
Step 8: If you chose to use pins, take them out before removing the pattern, and unfolding the fabric.
Step 9: At each slit, gently tug on the fabric on the outside of the slit to stretch out the material. Repeat for each slit.
Step 10: Wear your mask and enjoy your time outside!
How to Wear Your No-Sew T-Shirt Mask:
Fold the top edge of both layers down about .5″ (1.3 cm) and bring to your face, with the inner layer against your face, holding by the top loops on both sides.
Loop the top slits over your ears on each side.
Bring the bottom slits up to loop over your ears on each side.
Adjust the fit as necessary.
What do you think??? They’re so easy to make and super lightweight!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
CityWalk was really the ‘Epicenter of Awesome’ this week as they opened with limited operations.
It was so great to once again see people roaming CityWalk, but I will caution you that I expect the area to be busy this weekend so there a few things you can do to cut down on your waits!
Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App – Be ready to make those Cashless purchases and make sure to link your Universal Orlando Resort Pass for discounts!
Plan to arrive early: They are limiting the number of guests they are allowing in the CityWalk area, and there can be a back up at the parking plaza as self-parking is free.
Be prepared – Have that mask on and ready as you approach the temperature check so security can pass you as quickly as possible.
Be patient – Mind those 6ft social distancing markers on the ground, relax, and make sure to enjoy your time once again at Universal’s CityWalk!!!
CityWalk at the Universal Orlando Resort is open daily from 4-10 pm, but please remember that the theme parks and resorts are still currently closed.
On the Go in the Parks: Disney Springs
While I know it is a bit early…let’s look ahead to the opening of Disney Springs on May 20, 2020!
There is so much to look forward to, and new information is coming out everyday!
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 20th include:
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
STK Orlando
Wine Bar George
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
YeSake
The Polite Pig
Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Co.
4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck
Sunshine Churros
Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream
Earl of Sandwich – Just Announced
Planet Hollywood Observatory – Just Announced
Chicken Guy – Just Announced
The Boathouse – Just Announced
Disney Springs shopping locations opening May 20th include:
American Threads
Anthropologie
Crystal Arts by Arribas Bros.
Free People
Pele Soccer
Pop Gallery
Ron Jon Surf Shop
Uniqlo
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 22nd include:
Pizza Ponte
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia Street Food
Vivoli il Gelato
We are still waiting on a lot of details about the opening of Disney Springs, so make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
You know it is going to be a great day when we can start it off by sharing additional openings coming soon to Disney Springs!!!
The Patina Restaurant group announced that four of the Disney Springs dining locations that they operate will open on May 22nd with a new “Dine Safe” program.
The dining locations that will be resuming their operations with limited menus for lunch and/or dinner service include:
Vivoli il Gelato – Open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Morimoto Asia (Main Dining Room Dinner Service) – Open from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Morimoto Asia Street Food (Outdoor Dining Lunch & Dinner Service) – Open from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Pizza Ponte (Indoor/Outdoor Dining Lunch & Dinner Service) – Open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Please keep in mind that the operating hours listed are tentative and could change.
Now, let’s take a look at their new “Dine Safe” program that is being implemented across all of their locations.
The “Dine Safe: Commitment to Care” program is a comprehensive set of reengineered operating procedures to minimize contact risk and bolster hygiene protocol that meet or exceed the best-practice guidelines recommended by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“These heightened sanitation standards will help us manufacture a dining environment that keeps guests and our team members as safe as possible,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Marketing for Patina in Florida. “The health, wellbeing, and peace of mind of our guests, team members, and the community remain our highest priorities.”
The key components of the Dine Safe program include:
The Dining Room and Guest Experience:
To enhance health and safety measures, guests will be required to wear face coverings at all times except while eating and drinking.
Ensuring current social distancing procedures are upheld via the redesign of table layouts for seating guests as directed by local and state regulators and in compliance with the CDC.
Enhanced cleaning and sanitization protocols, including hourly disinfecting as needed for all high-touch surfaces.
Multiple hand-sanitizing stations strategically placed throughout our facilities.
Controlled access to the facility to carefully monitor incoming and outgoing patrons and employees through clearly designated entrances and exits.
Using single-use menus to limit contact.
Team Member Safety Measures:
Undergo a health check when they report to work.
Sanitize their hands when they report to work and are required to wash and sanitize their hands every 20 minutes throughout the shift.
Wear masks while on duty.
Undergo a comprehensive “Dine Safe” Training Program.
“We look forward to welcoming our guests back very soon and are dedicated to continuing to deliver an unparalleled dining experience,” Collins said.
The remaining Patina Restaurant Group-operated locations at Disney Springs including Maria & Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, and The Edison will also be resuming their operations soon, and we’ll be sure to share that news as soon as it becomes available!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
CityWalk, at the Universal Orlando Resort, will begin limited operation of select venues on Thursday, May 14 from 4-10 pm daily as they take the first steps toward reopening the destination.
Let’s talk about what you will find once the area begins its limited operations!
5 things to know about Universal Orlando’s CityWalk Limited Operations
1. What safety measures will be in place for guests?
The Universal Orlando Resort is working closely with local health officials and their own health and safety experts and adhere to CDC guidelines.
Universal Orlando Resort
Here are specific safety measures you will find when Universal Orlando’s CityWalk begins limited operations:
Team Members will undergo temperature checks and will wear face coverings.
Temperature checks for each guest will be taken upon arrival. If a guest has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater, they will not be able to enter CityWalk.
The Universal Orlando Resort will require guests to wear face coverings during their visit, and they will have complimentary disposable face coverings as well as face coverings available for purchase at cost. If a guest has a disability that prevents them from wearing a facial covering, they’ll be directed to the Guest Services team to discuss reasonable accommodations.
Each venue will limit the capacity to help enforce social distancing, and all chairs and tables will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each seating. High-touch surfaces throughout CityWalk will be frequently cleaned and disinfected as well.
Cashless payments will be available at all venues.
Please note the CDC advises that older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Guests should evaluate their risk in determining whether to attend.
People who show no symptoms can spread COVID-19 if they are infected, any interaction with the general public poses an elevated risk of being exposed to COVID-19, and the Universal Orlando Resort cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed during your visit.
2. Where can I park?
During the limited operations of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk, self-parking is complimentary and is subject to change.
It is important to note that each restaurant will have a limited menu and limited seating available, and reservations are recommended for full-service restaurants.
Guests are also encouraged to go contact-free with the Official Universal Orlando app, available for free in the App Store and Google Play Store.
5. What shopping locations will be open?
While additional shopping locations may open, currently the following CityWalk locations are scheduled to open May 14, 2020:
To prepare for your visit, you can find more information on the CDC guidelines here and more information about Universal Orlando’s policies during this time here.
Again, please keep in mind that Universal Orlando’s theme parks and hotels as well as Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk Hollywood remain closed through at least May 31, 2020.
I am soooo excited to see locations begin to reopen, and I can’t wait to visit Universal Orlando’s CityWalk!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Dr. Phillips Center has announced that the previously scheduled performance of the FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando engagement of To Kill a Mockingbird, scheduled for Dr. Phillips Center will be postponed. The highly anticipated Orlando run will be part of the 21/22 season.
In addition, The Cher Show, originally scheduled for June 15 – 20, 2021 will not come to the Dr. Phillips Center as part of the 20/21 Broadway season. The show has postponed its national tour with new dates to be announced.
Jesus Christ Superstar will appear as part of the 20/21 season at Dr. Phillips Center on June 15–20, 2021.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is an iconic musical phenomenon with a world-wide fan base. In celebration of its 50th Anniversary, a new mesmerizing production comes to North America. Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and helmed by the acclaimed director Timothy Sheader (Crazy for You, Into the Woods) and award-winning choreographer
Drew McOnie (King Kong, Strictly Ballroom), this production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades. Appealing to both theater audiences and concert music fans, this production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world that is uniquely fresh and inspiring.
Featuring award-winning music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice,JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTARis set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, ‘Gethsemane’ and ‘Superstar’.
Current season subscribers will be contacted by email with updated season package information, and you can find more information by visiting drphillipscenter.org.
Courtesy of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
You can find more information about the City Beautiful by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
A phased reopening of Disney Springs will begin on May 20. Following the guidance of government and health officials, a limited number of shopping and dining experiences that are owned by third-party operating participants will begin to open during this initial phase. The rest of Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed, including theme parks and resort hotels.
As we continue to monitor conditions, and with the health of guests and Disney cast members at the forefront of our planning, we are making several operational changes. Disney Springs will begin to reopen in a way that incorporates enhanced safety measures, including increased cleaning procedures, the use of appropriate face coverings by both cast members and guests, limited-contact guest services and additional safety training for cast members.
While the announcement wasn’t full of details, there were 5 key takeaways to note.
Disney Springs Reopening:
5 Things to Know
1. What we know about the locations opening on May 20, 2020…
When Disney Springs reopens guests will find, “a limited number of shopping and dining experiences that are owned by third-party operating participants will begin to open during this initial phase. The rest of Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed, including theme parks and Disney Resort hotels.”
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
So when it initially reopens, Disney Springs guests will not be able to shop at stores or dine at locations operated by Walt Disney World.
While not listed in this announcement, examples of these Walt Disney World operated locations include stores like World of Disney and the Co Op as well as dining locations like Jock Lindsey’s and D-Luxe Burger.
2. What we know about planning your trip to Disney Springs in the initial reopening phase…
When you think about planning your trip to Disney Springs in this phase, it is important to note that there will be limitations on capacity, parking, and operating hours.
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
While no specifics were given in this initial announcement about any of these three important details, it will be important to watch for these details to make planning easier.
3. What will be different when Disney Springs begins reopening…
Disney Springs did note in their announcement that they would be making several operational changes that would include enhanced safety measures including increased cleaning procedures, limited-contact Guest Services, and additional safety training for Cast Members
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
We will apply learnings and ideas from leaders in the health and travel industries, and we’re also talking to our unions as we prepare for some Cast Members to return to work.
Safety is ALWAYS at the forefront of operations at the Walt Disney World Resort, and I am beyond confident that they are going above and beyond to ensure the safety of guests and Cast Members.
4. What will guests need to have to visit Disney Springs…
Included in the many safety measures that Disney Springs is taking is, “…the use of appropriate face coverings by both Cast Members and Guests…”
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
This isn’t meant to spark debate…just know that you will need to wear a face covering to visit Disney Springs in this phase of reopening.
5. More Information
As we get closer to May 20, 2020, more specific information will be coming out, but I would encourage everyone to stay patient, understanding, and most of all kind as we continue to figure this out together!!!
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
We are really excited about the reopening of Disney Springs, and will be sharing information as it is released!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Golfing is a great way to spend time outdoors while social distancing, and Walt Disney World Golf, operated by Arnold Palmer Golf Management, is offering players the chance to experience their four fantastic courses.
Disney’s Palm Golf Course
Photo: Walt Disney World Golf
Disney’s Palm Golf Course, rated 4 stars by Golf Digest, is an 18-hole championship course that is visually stunning and challenging with 59 bunkers and 9 holes with water hazards.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course
Photo: Walt Disney World Golf
Designed in classic Tour style, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is the longest of the Walt Disney World Resort golf courses with elevated tees, spacious greens, and wide fairways with 97 bunkers and 11 holes with water hazards.
Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Photo: Walt Disney World Golf
Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, conceived by Joe Lee, is an 18-hole classic, country-club style course that has hosted the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and USGA events.
Due to the current closure of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, players must have a confirmed tee time reservation before entering the property.
Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Club
Photo: Walt Disney World Golf
Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course is a family-friendly, 9-hole walking course with rolling greens and exciting challenges.
Photo: Walt Disney World Golf
If you are looking for a different spin on the game, you can also take on its 9-Hole FootGolf course that is certified by the American FootGolf League (AFGL), the governing body for the sport of FootGolf in the United States.
FootGolf combines the game of soccer with shortened length golf holes, where the fewest kicks wins the hole.
When you are ready to take your swing, players will notice that significant measures to help ensure the well-being of all who visit and work at Walt Disney World Golf have been implemented.
Most notably, the new “Park and Play” procedure allows players to make an online tee time reservation and pre-pay online. Upon arrival, each player will have a designated sanitized golf cart waiting to take them to the first tee.
Other measures to be aware of include:
Tee time intervals have been adjusted to help aid in social distancing.
Club drop off is not being offered, but the staff will be available if special assistance is required.
Rentals of clubs and shoes are not available.
Tees, pencils, and scorecards can be requested.
The courses no longer have bunker rakes, water coolers, and ball washers.
Flagsticks should not be removed, and raised cups are in use on the greens to make ball retrieval easier.
The Pro Shop is open with special social distancing and sanitizing procedures.
On course food and beverage carts are not in use, however, Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Deli (Magnolia, Palm, and Oak Trail) and Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Cafe (Lake Buena Vista) are available during play without seating for guests.
All transactions must be completed with chip only credit cards.
All facilities have hand sanitizers.
You can find more information about the Walt Disney World Golf courses by calling the reservations center at (407) WDW-GOLF or by visiting golfwdw.com.
With the impending closures of the theme parks in Orlando, I am sad to say that this will be my last On the Go in the Parks this month.
My sincerest thoughts are with everyone impacted by these closures, and my prayers are that we all look back on this time in the future and see that it could have been worse if these drastic measures hadn’t been taken.
Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about these events and more on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!
Get out your finest green outfit and head to Disney Springs for the return of the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant!
Celebrate five days of fun, March 13-17, with non-stop Irish-infused entertainment from morning until night, a mighty selection of beers and cocktails and of course, the most authentic Irish food.
My favorite part of the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival is the fantastic line-up of live entertainment hand-picked straight from Ireland.
Universal Orlando is celebrating 25 years of its family-friendly Mardi Gras festivities with new parade floats, globally inspired cuisine, and live concerts on select nights from February 1 to April 2 at the Universal Studios Florida theme park.
This year’s parade features six new additional floats and steps-off at 7:45 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.
This weekend you can see:
Friday, Mar. 13 – Luis Fonsi @ 8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 14 – The All-American Rejects @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 15 – Diana Ross @ 8:30 pm
Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands. You can see the New Breed Brass Band will take to the French Quarter Courtyard Stage daily until March 21.
All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).
And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.
The 27th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will bloom at the Walt Disney World Resort filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spring daily until June 1, 2020.
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will rock every evening of the Festival with three performances by chart-topping artists on the America Gardens Theatre stage.
Here is who you can see perform this weekend:
March 13 through 16: Simple Plan
The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is included with your theme park admission.
In 2020 the Seven Seas Food Festival will runs weekends through May 5, including Fridays (WOOOOT), to give park-goers plenty more chances to sample more than 180 mouthwatering options from Chef Héctor Colón and his amazing culinary team!
New food offerings include the cricket crusted bison slider, duck and mushroom ramen bowl and the chicken and waffle.
Enjoy local craft beers and mouthwatering culinary flavors while exploring our marketplaces throughout the park.
In addition to delicious eats, guests visiting SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can enjoy world-class entertainment every Saturday and Sunday at Bayside Stadium, all included with theme park admission.
This weekend the Seven Seas Food Festival will feature free concerts from:
March 14 – Hunter Hayes
March 15 – Joe Nichols
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
DISCLOSURE: I was invited by the Walt Disney World Resort to experience Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, but all opinions and over-use of exclamation points are 100% my own.
From the moment I stepped off of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I knew that it had just entered my top 5 favorite attractions at Walt Disney World.
I don’t take that place of honor very lightly, and this attraction deserves that ranking because it is full of fun at every turn and details galore.
And with so many details and fun facts about the attraction, I thought it would be fun to share them with you all today!
A ‘Fab’ Cast of Characters
Matt Stroshane, photographer
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the first attraction to star Mickey and Minnie Mouse, is full of iconic Disney characters, including a new little bird destined to fly right into guests’ hearts.
Here is where you can find each of them:
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse – These true originals are ready to take their little red convertible for a leisurely drive through Runnamuck Park in search of the perfect picnic spot. What could possibly go wrong?
Pluto – The dutiful dog just wants to bring Mickey and Minnie their lost picnic basket.
Engineer Goofy – Mickey and Minnie’s lanky pal invites guests into the cartoon world for what surely promises to be an uneventful train ride through Runnamuck Park.
Daisy Duck – The proprietor of Daisy’s Dance Studio is ready to teach guests some fancy new moves.
Donald Duck – Everyone’s favorite hot-headed “problem child” is steaming again, as someone made off with the sign from his hot dog stand at the carnival.
Jackhammer Pete – The big brute’s vibrations may have some unforeseen consequences for Mickey and Minnie.
Chuuby (pronounced “choo-bee”) – This adorable little bird – created exclusively for the attraction – likes to sing and dance in Runnamuck Park.
All in the Details: An Authentic Mickey & Minnie Experience
Kent Phillips, photographer
Disney Imagineers watched every cartoon short in the latest “Mickey Mouse” series countless times while developing Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway (Imagineer Kevin Rafferty had a still from each one pinned to his office wall).
They wanted to soak up the essence of what makes the cartoons so fun and endearing, so they could then translate those fundamental principles into a ride-through attraction. Their research is just one facet of the total commitment to authenticity on display throughout Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
Walt Disney Imagineering consulted with Paul Rudish and Joseph Holt – executive producer and art director, respectively, for the “Mickey Mouse” shorts – to ensure the attraction’s hand-drawn look is authentic to the cartoon. For example, Imagineers added extra floating “lines” around a cactus in the stampede scene that appear as if they’re standing alone in midair, emulating a common technique used in the cartoons to emphasize motion.
Christopher Willis, award-winning composer of the “Mickey Mouse” shorts, composed the attraction’s soundtrack and co-wrote “Nothing Can Stop Us Now,” the exclusive theme song for Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, with his wife, Elyse Willis.
The attraction’s glamorous marquee features blinking bulbs and hand-crafted animated neon depictions of Mickey and Minnie. Its design cue comes from the extravagant marquees that were custom made for premieres of epic films in the mid-20th century.
In collaboration with Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Television Animation created 10 new posters that appear in the attraction’s queue; nine highlight existing “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts, while the 10th is for “Perfect Picnic,” the new short debuting in the theater.
The attraction features several sound effects created by Disney Legend Jimmy Macdonald for Disney animated shorts dating back to the 1930s; some new effects were developed using Macdonald’s original equipment.
The tri-tone whistle from Mickey Mouse’s debut cartoon in 1928, “Steamboat Willie,” was used to record the locomotive whistle sound for Engineer Goofy’s train.
Special painting techniques were used on the attraction’s ride vehicles so they appear to be hand-drawn, as if in a cartoon.
Hidden Gems Abound
Here is a hint at where you can find one of these hidden details…
Kent Phillips, photographer
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is full of hidden gems that nod to Disney history. It will likely take many times through the attraction to spot them all, but here are just a few:
A newspaper features the headline “Oswald Wins!” – a reference to Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, the cartoon character created by Walt Disney that predates Mickey Mouse.
The Iwerks and Uwerks Waterworks water treatment plant is named for Disney Legend Ub Iwerks, the animator credited with sketching Mickey Mouse for the first time.
The 1401 Flower Shop is an homage to Walt Disney Imagineering’s headquarters in Glendale, Calif.
The numbers 1901 and 1928 can be seen inside the attraction; these are references to Walt Disney’s and Mickey Mouse’s birth years, respectively.
I cannot wait to ride again and again and again and again!!!!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
DISCLOSURE: I was invited by the Walt Disney World Resort to experience the Mickey Shorts Theater, but all opinions and over-use of exclamation points are 100% my own.
The newly reimagined Mickey Shorts Theater debuted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on March 4, 2020, and I was really excited to check it out!
Located adjacent to the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, the new Mickey Shorts Theater is designed to evoke the fun of the Mickey Mouse shorts where ‘Mouse Rules Apply’.
Before you go into the theater make sure you open your Play Disney Parks App to try your hand at Mickey & Minnie’s Trivia Time – Mouse Rules Apply! that celebrates the openings of both Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and the “Vacation Fun” short in the Mickey Shorts Theater.
The game features five trivia packs containing hundreds of questions spanning from Mickey and Minnie’s debut in “Steamboat Willie” to today. Some of these trivia packs will be available at home, while others can be unlocked after experiencing Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway or “Vacation Fun” at Mickey Shorts Theater to extend the cartoon fun even further.
Okay now back to the theater itself, and now that I have finally seen the theater seats from the concept art…I can say without a doubt that I am COMPLETELY OBSESSED with how adorable they are!
Kent Phillips, photographer
Okay…back to the main attraction…the short!
The “Vacation Fun” short is exclusive to Walt Disney World’s Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and includes new animation as well as clips from favorite “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts.
The short move at lightning speed, and has a ‘Greatest Hits’ feel than a regular short. I thought it was a lot of fun, but if you haven’t seen the new shorts it might be overwhelming.
But the fun doesn’t stop there, because after the show guests can make even more memories by stepping into life-sized versions of beloved animated “Mickey Mouse” shorts, where they can pose for photos with family and friends.
Existing shorts from the Mickey Mouse television series that are being used in the post-show photo experience are Yodelburg, Potatoland, Entombed, and Panda-monium.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Have you ever wanted to jump through the screen and into “Mickey Mouse” cartoon short? Well now is your time to make it happen, because anything can happen aboard Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
It all started with a mouse…
Audiences were first introduced to Mickey Mouse in 1928 as the star of “Steamboat Willie,” and as soon as the iconic whistle blew Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse changed the world of entertainment forever.
And over 90 years later, Mickey Mouse is a cultural icon with a combination of childlike innocence, an impish sense of humor, and a plucky attitude.
Even though Mickey Mouse has had adventures over the years, the one thing he hasn’t done is starred in his own attraction.
History is about to change again with the debut of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort.
David Roark, photographer
Classic Disney Storytelling, Driven by State-of-the-Art Design
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway brings the past and future together as the ride combines cutting-edge technology with the rich history of Mickey and Minnie Mouse as a two-dimensional cartoon world becomes a world of where ‘mouse rules apply’.
The attraction features a combination of physical sets, Audio-Animatronics figures, animated media, and projection-mapping techniques, all syncing in time with trackless vehicles and an original musical score that will get stuck in your head for days.
** Proceed with caution as there are Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway spoilers ahead **
Last chance to turn back…
Everything starts with a story
In the story, Mickey and Minnie set off on a journey to find the best spot for a romantic picnic, taking their little red convertible for a drive through Runnamuck Park.
Matt Stroshane, photographer
Little do they know Pluto has accidentally stowed away in the trunk of their car, so when the roadster hits a bump and the dutiful dog flies out … mayhem ensues.
Kent Phillips, photographer
It’s at this point Disney magic brings guests through the movie screen and into the cartoon world, where they join Engineer Goofy on a train ride on the Runnamuck Railroad, following Mickey and Minnie through the park on their quest for that perfect picnic. And with Goofy at the helm, what could possibly go wrong?
Matt Stroshane, photographer
It’s up to Mickey and Minnie to keep guests out of trouble, all while poor Pluto tries to catch up and bring them their picnic basket!
Matt Stroshane, photographer
While I absolutely loved The Great Movie Ride, I cannot wait to ride Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway!!!!
Spring has sprung in the theme parks of Central Florida, which means that March is filled with special events that invite guests to enjoy the wonderful weather!
Universal Orlando is celebrating 25 years of its family-friendly Mardi Gras festivities with new parade floats, globally inspired cuisine, and live concerts on select nights through April 2 at the Universal Studios Florida theme park.
This year’s parade features six new additional floats, and steps-off at different times during the month.
The parade steps off at 6:15 pm: March 1- 6
The parade steps off at 7:30 pm: March 9-12, 16-19, 23-27, March 30 – April 2
The parade steps off at 7:45 pm: March 7, 8, 13-15, 20-22, 28-29
On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.
Here is who will be performing in March:
Saturday, Mar. 7 – REO Speedwagon @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 8 – Dustin Lynch @ 8:30 pm
Friday, Mar. 13 – Luis Fonsi @ 8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 14 – The All-American Rejects @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 15 – Diana Ross @ 8:30 pm
Friday, Mar. 20 – Chris Young @8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 21 – Earth, Wind & Fire @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 22 – Marshmello @ 8:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 28 – Why Don’t We @ 8:30 pm
Sunday, Mar. 29 – Gavin DeGraw @ 8:30 pm
Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands.
In March you can see the New Breed Brass Band March 6 through March 21 and the Naughty Professor Brass Band March 22 through April 2 on the French Quarter Courtyard stage.
All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).
And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.
Don’t forget that Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Studios Florida are held rain or shine, so be sure to plan accordingly.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival is back for another year to give guests the delicious opportunity to taste their way around the world of international street food traditions. The Seven Seas Food Festival will run through May 5, including Fridays, to give park-goers plenty more chances to sample more than 180 mouthwatering options!
A complete menu of the Seven Seas Food Festival dishes and drinks can be found online here.
In addition to delicious eats, guests visiting SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can enjoy world-class entertainment every Saturday and Sunday at Bayside Stadium, all included with theme park admission.
Here is who will be taking the stage in March:
March 7 – AJR
March 8 – Dylan Scott
March 14 – Hunter Hayes
March 15 – Joe Nichols
March 21 – YES and Alan Parsons Live Project
March 22 – Edwin McCain
March 28 – Gin Blossoms
March 29 – Village People
Concerts are held at Bayside Stadium each Saturday and Sunday at 6:00 p.m. To ensure you get the best seats in the house, guests can purchase reserved seating for select performances. Reserved seating opportunities are available online here.
The 27th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will bloom at the Walt Disney World Resort filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spring daily from March 4 until June 1, 2020.
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will rock every evening of the Festival with three performances by chart-topping artists on the America Gardens Theatre stage.
Here is who you can see perform this month:
March 4 and 5: Peabo Bryson – NEW!
March 6 through 9: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
March 10 through 12: The Guess Who
March 13 through 16: Simple Plan
March 17 through 19: STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
March 20 through 23: Mark Wills – NEW!
March 24 through 26: The Spinners
March 27 and 28: Sister Hazel
March 29 and 30: The Pointer Sisters
March 31 through April 2: Steve Augeri – Former Lead Vocalist of Journey
A world of taste awaits at the sixth annual Food & Wine Festival each weekend until April 26. The festival features new and exciting dishes, plus a large selection of wines, craft brews and cocktails.
While enjoying delicious eats, fans can see some of the biggest names in music as they take the stage on the Festival Field.
This month’s concerts include:
March 1: The Commodores
March 7: Chase Bryant & Danielle Bradbery
March 8: Rachel Platten
March 14: Ezra Ray Hart
March 15: THREE DOG NIGHT
March 21: LOCASH
March 22: Fitz & The Tantrums
March 28: Home Free
March 29: Taking Back Sunday
All concerts are included with daily ticketed admission to the park.
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
The theme parks of Central Florida are always buzzing with excitement and events, and here is everything you can experience this weekend in the parks!
Don’t forget to tune in to News 96.5 WDBO this evening to hear me talk about these events and more on Orlando’s Evening News with Tony Marino!!!
On the Go in the Parks: New this Weekend
While it is a bit of a lull in the parks this weekend, Wednesday kicks off a whirlwind of awesomeness!!!
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway and the Mickey Shorts Theater open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and just a park over the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival begins at EPCOT!
Universal Orlando is celebrating 25 years of its family-friendly Mardi Gras festivities with new parade floats, globally inspired cuisine, and live concerts on select nights from February 1 to April 2 at the Universal Studios Florida theme park.
This year’s parade features six new additional floats and steps-off at 6:15 pm on February 28, 7:45 pm on February 29, and 6:15 pm on March 1.
On select nights during the event, guests can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.
This weekend you can see:
Saturday, Feb. 29 – TLC
Opening daily at 4 pm, the French Quarter Courtyard is where you can find food and spirits available for purchase and performances from Louisiana jazz, blues, and zydeco bands. You can see the Free Agents Brass Band will take to the French Quarter Courtyard Stage daily until March 6.
All of the excitement of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a Seasonal or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).
And until April 2, Florida residents can experience this year’s Mardi Gras celebration and the spring season by saving up to $65 on multi-day tickets and up to $75 on Seasonal and Annual Passes.
In 2020 the Seven Seas Food Festival will run from February 7 through May 5, including Fridays (WOOOOT), to give park-goers plenty more chances to sample more than 180 mouthwatering options from Chef Héctor Colón and his amazing culinary team!
New food offerings include the cricket crusted bison slider, duck and mushroom ramen bowl and the chicken and waffle.
Enjoy local craft beers and mouthwatering culinary flavors while exploring our marketplaces throughout the park.
In addition to delicious eats, guests visiting SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can enjoy world-class entertainment every Saturday and Sunday at Bayside Stadium, all included with theme park admission.
This weekend the Seven Seas Food Festival will feature free concerts from:
February 29 – Grupo Mania
March 1 – Boyz II Men
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTubeChannel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
The 27th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will bloom at the Walt Disney World Resort filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spring daily from March 4 until June 1, 2020.
Lush Gardens
Imagination blooms around every corner during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival as breathtaking flower beds, plots of plant life, and wildlife habitats can be found in every area of the park.
Bamboo Garden – As a member of the grass family, bamboo can be found at the China Pavilion in many colors, patterns and sizes.
Bold Bromeliads – Located at the Mexico Pavilion
Bonsai Collection – Take a trip to the Japan Pavilion and discover the ancient art of bonsai with some of the finest living sculptures created by bonsai masters, who carefully shape and tend these miniature works of art—creating peace and balance with the earth.
Chinese Zodiac Natural Sculptures – Located at the China Pavilion
English Tea Garden Presented by Twinings of London – Discover the history and art of tea blending at this elegant English Tea Garden at the United Kingdom Pavilion, featuring plants important to some of Twinings finest tea blends.
Festival Blooms – Located at Future World, this display boasts thousands of flowers form colorful, living panoramas overlooking Future World’s East and West lakes.
Floating Mini-Gardens – Peer upon more than 100 petite plots drifting on the ponds that border the walkway between Future World and the World Showcase.
Garden Italiano – From fresh spaghetti sauce to your favorite pizza topping, this Tuscan kitchen garden at the Italy Pavilion features all the produce and herbs needed to create a classic Italian feast.
Health Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth – Delight in a whimsical area along Imagination Walkway for kids, made to inspire youthful energy and creativity. Your whole family can learn fun and interactive ways to stay healthy at a brand-new playground and outdoor kitchen.
The Honey Bee-Stro – Learn about the importance of honeybees in this immersive garden. You can also enjoy some food options, made possible by their hard work, from the adjoining outdoor kitchen. Find it near Imagination! Pavilion.
Kokedama Garden – Admire fresh expressions of an ancient Japanese art. The Kokedama Garden features skilled bonsai creations.
Growing the Future Presented by Murata – Explore how cutting-edge technology paired with agricultural science can transform the way we feed the world. Discover the possibilities with our friends at Science from Scientists and engage in fun, fascinating, hands-on experiments—opening April 7, 2020.
Shakespeare Garden – Thou shalt adore matching up famous quotes to flowers found within this vibrant garden at the United Kingdom Pavilion. William Shakespeare often used flowers and exotic gardens to help set the scenes for his plays and employed them as symbols and metaphors.
The Goodness Garden Butterfly House Presented by GoGo squeeZ – Visit this foliage-filled exhibit at Future World West to view a kaleidoscope of butterflies and observe several species up close, learning about their life cycles and maybe even witnessing them emerging from chrysalises.
Plant a Garden Perfect for Pollinators – Stop by this display near the Butterfly House and take garden-ready ideas home with you, along with garden crafts and sustainable best practices.
Tropical Rainforest Garden – Visit the Mexico Pavilion and learn how Mexico rainforests are rich with plants and animals that have adapted to a wide variety of light levels and water conditions.
Urban Spice – At the Morocco Pavilion, learn how in many eastern cultures, ancient spices were considered more valuable than gold. Even today, many cultures are defined by their signature spices and herb blends, created from plant leaves, stems, roots, seeds and flowers.
Topiaries with character
The topiaries are the highlight of every Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, and this year 70 hand-crafted topiaries have been created by Disney’s talented team horticulturists.
While there are many returning favorites, there are a few new additions you won’t want to miss!
Here is where you will find the topiaries during the Festival:
Anna and Elsa from Frozen – Located at the Norway Pavilion
Bambi & Friends(Featuring Flower, Bambi and Thumper) – Located in Future World East just outside of the new Mousegear
Beauty and the Beast Located at the France Pavilion
Bo Peep and Her Sheep with Woody – Located at Future World East
Bold Bromeliads – Located near The Land at Future World East
Bromeliad Dragon – Located at the Japan Pavilion
Buzz Lightyear – Located near Mission: SPACE at Future World East
Captain Hook and Peter Pan – Located at the United Kingdom Pavilion
Construction Mickey and Minnie with Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n’ Dale – Located between Future World and World Showcase
Donald and Daisy with Huey, Dewey and Louie – Located near Showcase Plaza
Fantasia – Sorcerer Mickey, Brooms, Ostriches and Hippo – Located near Imagination at Future World West
Lady and the Tramp – Located at the Italy Pavilion (their new location on the water is my favorite)
Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog – Located between the United Kingdom and Canada Pavilions at the France Pavilions
Pandas – Located at the China Pavilion
Pluto and Goofy – Located between Future World and World Showcase
Remy (NEW!) – Located at the France Pavilion
Simba and Friends(Featuring Rafiki, Simba, Mufasa and Sarabi) – Located between The Outpost Shop and the Germany Pavilion
Snow White and Dopey – Located at the Germany Pavilion
Tinker Bell and Fairy Houses – Located at the United Kingdom Pavilion
The Three Caballeros(Featuring Jose, Donald and Panchito) – Located at the Mexico Pavilion
Topiary Butterflies – Located at Future World West
Topiary Flowers – Located near the Main Entrance
Winnie-the-Pooh & Friends – Located at the United Kingdom Pavilion
Interactive Play Scapes
Families can take a step off the Festival path to experience two play gardens filled with hands-on activities and interactive playscapes.
At Bo Peep’s Playtime Training Grounds, located near Test Track, little ones of all ages can enjoy a playful playground and garden inspired by Bo Peep and the rest of your Toy Story pals.
The Play Full Garden, located on the Imagination Walkway, will inspire the entire family to gather for interactive activities that focus on nutrition and wellness.
Family Scavenger Hunts
Gardeners of all ages are invited to participate in Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration, a springtime scavenger hunt starring Spike the bzzzz-iest honey bee at the Walt Disney World Resort.
📷 Walt Disney World Resort- Harrison Cooney
Once you have your Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration map, available for purchase at the Port of Entry for $6.99 plus tax, search for Spike’s best blooms across Epcot’s World Showcase, and once you’ve completed the hunt return the completed map to the Port of Entry store for a special surprise.
Also for a limited time, March 27 to April 12 or while supplies last, Epcot becomes the ‘Hop-piest Place on Earth’ with an Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt around World Showcase in search of Disney character-themed eggs.
Annual Passholders can receive a discount on the purchase of both Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration and the Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunts! Just make sure to show your Annual Pass with ID.
Outdoor Kitchens
As festival-goers take in all the floral wonders of the Festival, they can also find culinary delights at over a dozen Outdoor Kitchens around Epcot’s World Showcase.
📷 Walt Disney World Resort – Harrison Cooney
The Outdoor Kitchens open at 11am, and just outside of each location a garden offers inspiration for learning to grow healthy ingredients.
A complete list of Outdoor Kitchens and menus can be found here.
Garden Rocks Concert Series
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series will rock every evening of the Festival with three performances by chart-topping artists on the America Gardens Theatre stage.
📷 Walt Disney World Resort
It is such a great way to kick off your evening in the park or wrap up a fantastic day!
Additionally, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at 15 popular Epcot restaurants with guaranteed seating for a nightly concert with a Garden Rocks Dining Package. Dining packages can be booked by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
You can find the entire Garden Rocks Concert Series and more information on the dining packages here.
Festival Exclusive Guided Tours
Guided tours are available for gardeners of all skill levels who are interested in learning more about nature’s magic exclusively during the Festival.
📷 Walt Disney World Resort
The Royal Tea Garden Tour, presented by Twinings, takes place each festival morning at the United Kingdom Pavilion and guides guests through the tranquil tea garden to learn the history and artistry behind growing and blending tea.
The Gardens of the World tour, offered on select days, lets guests join a Disney horticulturist for a three-hour walking tour to explore the festival gardens and topiaries discovering new plant materials and gardening techniques to use in their home gardens.
Epcot admission and a fee are required to join these tours. To make a reservation, call (407) WDW-TOUR.
📷 Walt Disney World Resort
Gene Duncan, photographer
The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, including all gardens and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.
You can find more information about theme park special events, news, and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Today new details were released about the new Mickey Shorts Theater that will open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on March 4, 2020!
The reimagined theater, located between For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration and Star Tours, has an interior inspired by the fun of the Disney Channel cartoon series.
Walt Disney World
How adorable are those seats???
And now we have more information about the one-of-a-kind animated short featuring everyone’s favorite mouse and his leading lady and the post-show experience.
Walt Disney World
The “Vacation Fun” all-new animated short that will be shown in the Mickey Shorts Theater celebrates Mickey and Minnie’s favorite vacation memories, plus a few new adventures!
After the show, guests can make even more memories by stepping into life-sized versions of beloved animated Mickey shorts, where they can pose for photos with family and friends.
Existing shorts from the Mickey Mouse television series that are being used in the post-show photo experience are Yodelburg, Potatoland, Entombed, and Panda-monium.
