This year SeaWorld Orland’s Christmas Celebration, Sesame Street Land has been decked out for the holidays and their daily parade has a fun holiday twist!
The Sesame Street Christmas Parade features Big Bird, Grover, Elmo, and friends in their holiday best as dancing along to holiday favorites, such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Joy to the World.”
The Sesame Street Christmas Parade is very popular, so here are a few tips for making your viewing the best it can possibly be.
Sesame Street Christmas Parade Viewing Tips
The parade does not just roll down the middle of Sesame Street. The parade starts over near Abby’s Flower Tower before heading down to the end of Sesame Street Land and stopping to fill the area along the neighborhood (not attractions) with fun.
While the parade does stop, children are not encouraged to step out and join the characters during the parade stops. It’s helpful to set this expectation early, because it is tempting for little ones to want to join the dancing.
Make sure to get your spot at least 30 minutes before the parade starts to grab a spot along the street.
Be aware that if you are in the front row, you will be asked to sit down for the parade so that others behind you will be able to see.
While you are in the neighborhood, take time to enjoy the holiday decorations throughout Sesame Street Land! My favorite are the decorations in the Laundromat made of lost socks!
The Sesame Street Christmas Parade is a fantastic addition to SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration, and it is included with your theme park admission until December 31st.
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 am a Feld Entertainment Blogger Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and other exclusive opportunities.
2020 will bring a lot of new things to Orlando, and one that I am really excited about is the Jurassic World Live Tour that is coming to the Amway Center January 17-20, 2020!
Photo Courtesy: Feld Entertainment
The Jurassic World Live Tour is your chance to step into an exhilarating and unpredictable live, family entertainment experience that will bring the wonder and thrills of Jurassic World to generations of fans.
During the show, Jurassic World comes to life against a backdrop of captivating scenery where dinosaurs from the iconic franchise, including fan-favorite Velociraptor Blue and a Tyrannosaurus rex more than 40 feet in length, take center stage.
Photo Courtesy: Feld Entertainment
The production features more than 24 film-accurate, life-sized dinosaurs, each custom built with the latest technology, scientific precision and Hollywood studio quality. With scale, speed and ferocity, the animatronic and performer-operated dinosaurs deliver colossal, edge-of-your-seat, live entertainment unlike any other dinosaur experience.
Jurassic World’s unmistakable score adds to the larger-than-life, immersive journey that will captivate fans of all ages.
Photo Courtesy: Feld Entertainment
Through a combination of projection and practical scenery, the arena will transform into the dense jungles of Isla Nublar, where real Gyrospheres roll through the valley and scientists work to unravel a corrupt plan and save an all-new dinosaur from a terrible fate. With pulse-pounding stunts and an original, authentic storyline, this show is guaranteed to make memories that will last another 65 million years.
“Working with a world-class production team and Universal filmmakers, we have extended the Jurassic World canon with a new story that can only be told through this live, arena spectacular as we bring full-scale dinosaurs to generations of fans around the globe,” said Juliette Feld Grossman, Chief Operating Officer of Feld Entertainment, the worldwide leader in live, touring family entertainment.
Photo Courtesy: Feld Entertainment
“We have maximized the power of everything we do at Feld Entertainment, pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation to ensure audiences have an authentic, awe-inspiring experience. Fans will leave with a sense of wonder, as if they’ve boarded the boat to Isla Nublar and literally stepped into Jurassic World.”
Photo Courtesy: Feld Entertainment
Tickets are now on sale for Jurassic World Live Tour, and I am stoked to share with you an opportunity to save on your tickets just in time for the holidays!
D23 Destination D returns to Walt Disney World Resort with an all-new theme. Plus, more tours of The Walt Disney Studios than ever before, additional magical screenings, a visit to Walt’s hometown of Marceline, Mo., and more
In 2020, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is bringing back many of its most popular events, adding incredible new experiences, and putting new twists on fan favorites.
Photo: D23.com
D23 DESTINATION D: FANTASTIC WORLDS: Returning to Walt Disney World Resort next November 20–22, Destination D will honor Disney’s many magical places, from the extraordinary to the fantastical. In addition, the Walt Disney Archives, which turns 50 next year, is creating an all-new exhibit that will include 50 iconic treasures, representing the 50 years of the Archives. And Walt Disney Imagineering’s store, Mickey’s of Glendale, will once again open a pop-up shop featuring exclusive items, just for the weekend. Additional details, including special hotel rates and ticketing information, will be announced in late spring.
Photo: D23.com
D23 CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES: In addition to the new exhibit coming to Destination D, D23 Members will be invited to a special Grand Opening Preview of Inside the Walt Disney Archives: 50 Years of Preserving the Magic at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, Calif., on Saturday, March 4, 2020. Plus, on June 22, the actual anniversary of the founding of the Archives, D23 will hold a special “birthday party” at the Bowers Museum. And next year, D23 will offer two exclusive D23 Behind-the-Scenes Experiences: A Day at the Studio Lot, for an exciting look behind the incredible work that goes on every day at the Walt Disney Archives.
Photo: D23.com
WALT’S MARCELINE: Walt frequently cited this charming Missouri town, where he spent his early childhood, as one of his greatest influences. In fact, its lovely main thoroughfare was an inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A. D23 Members will have a chance to explore the Walt Disney Hometown Museum, enjoy local treats, and mingle with special guests during this full-day event.
Photo: D23.com
SCREENINGS ON THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS LOT, AT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT, AND ON THE ROAD: For years, D23 Members have enjoyed private screenings of beloved classics on The Walt Disney Studios lot and at Disney Springs with special guests and exclusive gifts. This year, for the first time ever, D23 is taking the show—and the movies—on the road, bringing the joy of Disney films to members in select cities around the country. Next year, D23 will more than double the number of its Magical Screenings, celebrating the milestone anniversaries of such films as The Three Caballeros, A Goofy Movie, Pocahontas, The Emperor’s New Groove, and The Aristocats.
Photo: D23.com
THE OFFICIAL WALT DISNEY STUDIOS TOUR—PRESENTED BY D23:In 2019,for the first time ever, D23 hosted monthly Gold Member-exclusive tours of the historic Studio lot. In 2020, due to overwhelming demand, we are adding additional tours, offering them more often so more guests can take a look inside the Walt Disney Archives and see Walt Disney’s office suite. These tours offer fans a unique perspective on historic moments from Disney films, television shows, and theme parks.
ADVANCE SCREENINGS OF NEW FILMS: In 2020, D23 Members will once again enjoy exclusive, advance screenings across the country in partnership with our friends from The Walt Disney Studios. This year, D23 brought movie magic—including Toy Story 4 and Maleficent: Mistress of Evil—to more than 35 cities across the country, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, New York City, Phoenix, Seattle, Salt Lake City, and Toronto. D23 Members also attended the red-carpet premiere of Disney’s Aladdin.
Photo: D23.com
SIGNATURE EVENTS: D23 will invite guests to enjoy Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival this spring, as well as foodie favorite Sip & Stroll during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival next fall. Walt Disney Imagineering’s exclusive merchandise store, Mickey’s of Glendale, will once again open its doors to members for shopping days. And seasonal favorites will return, including a new Halloween event and the holiday favorite Light Up the Season with D23 at The Walt Disney Studios, as well as a special event next December at Walt Disney World Resort. Members will also be able to attend special events at The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco and D23 will continue to offer unique experiences across the country, giving members the opportunity to meet our Disney Legends and luminaries.
Photo: D23.com
MEMBER MEET-UPS: In 2020, D23 will bring its popular Member Mixers and meet-ups to cities across the United States including Anaheim, New York City, San Diego, and Seattle, as well as to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.
Dates, ticketing information, and more D23 events will be announced throughout the year. Additional details on D23’s lineup of 2020 special events can be found on the Fan Club’s website at www.D23.com/events. Many of these events are exclusively for D23 Gold and Gold Family Members. Be sure to check the full listings when events post for details. All events and dates are subject to change.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Light Up UCF brings snowy nights and sparkling lights with an all new ride, spectacular light show, outdoor skating rink, exciting holiday attractions and more to Central Florida!
Get swept up in holiday cheer at Addition Financial Arena (formerly CFE Arena) and the University of Central Florida with the annual holiday festival, Light Up UCF.
Produced by UCF Convocation Corporation and Spectra, managers of Addition Financial Arena, Light Up UCF will run through Sunday, January 5.
This year’s festival offers nights of ice skating, a world-class choreographed light show with NEW music, free holiday movies, live entertainment, rides like the Ferris Wheel and Light Up Express kids train, and NEW this year, a Carousel!
Light Up UCF offers complimentary fun for all ages. Our Holiday Light Show (powered by Duke Energy) features more than 200,000 pulsing, strobing lights throughout the night in perfect synchronization to holiday songs under snowfall. On select nights, the Holiday Film Festival (presented by AdventHealth for Children) encourages families to gather together and view their favorite holiday films on a 2-story movie screen, including titles like “Polar Express”, “The Santa Clause”, “Elf”, “Home Alone”, and more. Also on select nights, Santa will visit the Barnes & Noble next to Addition Financial Arena to hear all your Christmas wishes. Check www.LightUpUCF.com for times and dates.
The Light Up UCF Ice Rink, an ultimate fan favorite, returns yet again as a centerpiece for the festivities. The ice rink invites guests to glide along to their favorite Top 40 hits and holiday tunes, played by a live DJ.
There’s no shortage of fun-filled attractions for guests of all ages at Light Up UCF. The Ferris Wheel offers a sky-high panoramic view of UCF’s beautiful campus – with sights as far as Downtown Orlando. The family-oriented atmosphere also boasts the Light Up Express Train, taking little passengers for an excitingly merry train ride; the Artic Glide Ice Slide (sponsored by E-Pass) where lovers of thrill can slide across 100 feet of ice; and the Winter Whirl, taking guests on an adrenaline filled swing. Inspired by nostalgic childhood memories, the debut of our newest attraction, the Carousel, will be sure to take you on a spin of delight. The festivities continue on the AdventHealth Community Stage, where local talent is invited to showcase their skills.
Keep the holiday cheer going on Friday, December 6, when Light Up UCF welcomes back its Holiday Market ‘Under The Stars’! Guests are encouraged to take a stroll through the market where they can marvel at the crafts of talented local artisans, all while finalizing their holiday gift shopping. Visit www.LightUpUCF.com for more information on merchants that will be at this year’s event. Vendors can apply for booth space at www.ucfholidaymarket.com.
Tickets for ice skating and rides can be purchased at the Addition Financial Arena Box Office. Select tickets are also available for purchase by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. More information for all Light Up UCF events can be found at www.LightUpUCF.com.
Universal Orlando Resort’s eighth hotel, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, will welcome guests for the first time on March 17, 2020.
Universal Orlando Resort
An extra-affordable Value category hotel, Dockside Inn and Suites will join its sister property at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, Surfside Inn and Suites, which opened in June 2019.
Dockside Inn and Suites will add 2,050 guest rooms to the Universal Orlando hotel portfolio by the end of 2020, featuring both standard rooms and spacious 2-Bedroom Suites – which can accommodate up to six people. At Dockside Inn and Suites, guests will unwind in a carefree escape that perfectly blends the cool, calm feeling of a beach retreat.
Universal Orlando Resort
With rates starting at just $85 per night, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort combines the quality guests have come to expect from a Universal Orlando hotel with an extra-affordable price point – creating an experience that is unmatched in the Orlando area.
Universal Orlando Resort
Plus, hotel guests receive exclusive benefits, including Early Park Admission, complimentary transportation to and from the theme parks and more, creating a complete and seamless vacation experience.
Universal Orlando Resort
Dockside Inn and Suites will become the destination’s eighth property in partnership with Loews Hotels & Co, offering Universal Orlando guests a hotel choice for every style and budget.
Check out Universal’s Endless Summer Resort sister property Surfside Inn and Suites on our YouTube Channel!
You can find more information and to book a stay at Universal’s Dockside Inn and Suites here.
For 35 years Hemingway’s at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort has been a staple in Orlando creating inventive cuisine inspired by the places and travels of Ernest Hemingway.
And in celebration of this milestone, the restaurant and it’s menu have been re-imagined to reflect the sights and flavors of Key West, Cuba and Spain.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
“Hyatt’s global philosophy, Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served., focuses on offering guests and associates healthy food and beverage options generated by the local community,” says Executive Chef David Didzunas. “This philosophy guides Hemingway’s food and beverage planning from the operational level to the guest experience. With this long term strategy, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress will continue to anticipate and satisfy the evolving preferences of its guests, ensuring that guests have more options to fit their needs and lifestyles while staying in Orlando.”
Before you enjoy a meal created by Executive Chef David Didzunas and his team, you can head into Hurricanes Lounge to enjoy stunning views of the resort and handcrafted cocktails including their signature Papa Doble and seasonal libations.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Can’t make it to the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort? Here is how you can make your own Hemmingway’s Maple Whiskey Sour at home!
Hemmingway’s Maple Whiskey Sour
Ingredients:
2oz of Bourbon
1oz Lemon Juice
.75oz Maple Syrup
Egg white from 1 egg
Prep:
Freshly squeeze your lemons
Separate your egg white from the yolk
Instructions:
Pour all of ingredients above into a shaker
Shake vigorously & strain into a rocks glass over a giant ice cube!
For more information about Hemingway’s and Hurricanes Lounge at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, visit https://www.hemingwaysorlando.com/ or call (407) 239-1234.
Aquatica Orlando is racing into 2020 with a one-of-a-kind new park attraction that will thrill park-goers—Florida’s first-ever dueling water slide, Riptide Race.
Starting atop a 68-foot tower, riders will be able to grab a raft and take their mark in side-by-side racing lanes at top speeds. Each raft holds a team of two, so every rider will have a partner as they plunge toward a hopeful victory. Plus, Riptide Race rafts feature low walls to ensure full view of the competition. Dueling face-to-face, racers will navigate tight loops and accelerations through indoor and outdoor sections. It’s a marathon to the finish through nearly 650 feet of splashing slide!
“Riptide Race will offer a ride experience you won’t be able to get anywhere else in Florida. Aquatica will be the first waterpark in the state to have a thrilling, and more importantly, dueling water slide,” said David Heaton, Aquatica Orlando vice president. “Riptide Race is the perfect addition to our attraction portfolio, complementing what is already one of the most family friendly waterslide lineups in Orlando.”
Riptide Race will have a height requirement of 42 inches to appeal to families with children, and the new slide will be conveniently located on the north side of the park next to Banana Beach Cook Out.
The best way to experience Aquatica is with an Aquatica Orlando Annual Pass or Fun Card. Guests can become Aquatica Annual Pass holders for as little as $9.25 per month, offer ends December 3, and enjoy 12 months of visits and receive park benefits and rewards including FREE parking, priority access to ride Riptide Race in 2020, in-park discounts and much more. Or, guests can purchase a Fun Card which provides unlimited access to the park for the entire 2020 operating season for only $76.99 – Buy a Fun Card now and get the rest of the 2019 operating season for FREE¹. For more information, visit AquaticaOrlando.com.
Assemble your squad and get ready to turn up the fun at Aquatica in 2020.
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!
Now Snowing, Central Florida’s original and premier “Snowing” event, offers one of the area’s only synthetic ice rinks, special community performances by some of the area’s top young talent, and special concert events throughout the season. Now Snowing is a month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular featuring strolling Charles Dickens style Carolers**, photos with Santa**, horse drawn carriage rides, ice skating, train rides, and nightly snowfall at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 PM. It’s a true throwback to the traditional family style holiday.
In addition to the everyday fun at Now Snowing Nightly, you can catch a A Countdown to Christmas on December 14th – an evening filled with young talent from across the United States and featuring talent seen on national television and radio, and more. These free concerts are in addition to the everyday fun already a part of Now Snowing. Past performances include Justin Bieber, Keke Palmer, Mitchell Musso and many more.
The event is brought to you by Lexin Capital, and sponsored in part by the Celebration Town Tavern, and Experience Kissimmee. Now Snowing Nightly parking and admission are free. Celebration is conveniently located between Highway 192 and interstate 4 near Walt Disney World.
Parking is Free in Open Lots. The town will enforce parking laws, and tow vehicles illegally parked or parked in unauthorized areas at owner’s expense. Please pay close attention to parking and street signs.
*weather permitting. Inoperable during periods of heavy rain or temperatures below 34 degree (F) ** on select nights through December 24th
Free Nightly Snowfall at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 PM
everyday November 30th-December 31st *
*weather permitting. Inoperable during periods of heavy rain or temperatures below 34 degree (F)
ICE SKATING
Cost to Skate*: $10.00 (ice skates included) for 30 minutes of skating
Hours: 4:00 pm-10:00 pm Nightly November 30th -December 31st.
For more Information: 407-566-2526
*Synthetic ice rink
CELEBRATION EXPRESS TRAIN
Cost: $5.00
Hours: 5:00 pm-close Nightly November 30th-December 31st.
For more Information: TBA
HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES
Cost:
Cinderella Carriage $65.00 for up to four riders, $10 each additional
Christmas Sleigh: $65.00 for up to four riders, $10 each additional
Vis a Vis (Small Carriage): $45.00 for up to four riders, $10 each additional
Wagon Rides: $5.00 per person
(infants under 1 year of age-no charge)
Hours: 5:00 pm-close Nightly November 30th-December 31st.
For more Information: 321-624-6380
SANTA PHOTOS
Cost: Depends on Package Purchased
Hours: 5:30-9:00 PM Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturday and Sunday through December 24th
6:00-9:00 PM Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays through December 24th
As the stars begin to shine over the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you’ll watch as The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle unfolds with dazzling projections of holiday spirit inspired by the words of JK Rowling.
During the show, you will see the ghosts of Hogwarts singing carols, students riding broomsticks and creating snowmen, a moment inspired by the Yule Ball and many more surprises.
Here are a few of my favorite images from the show!
If you want to make sure that you have a phenomenal viewing of The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle here are a few things to keep in mind!
The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle begins nightly at dusk until park close, to find out when dusk is in Orlando to plan your day google is accurate within a few minutes.
The show runs, weather permitting, approximately every 15 minutes. So if you are in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and it’s crazy crowded, just wait a little longer!
Speaking of waiting a little longer…the darker it is for your viewing the better, because the projections will be crisper. If you do wait for the the last show of the night, there’s the bonus of walking through a less crowded park for pictures as you are leaving the park!!!
Since the show is ON Hogwarts Castle, it is easy to find a great spot to watch them! I like to be close to the stage where the Frog Choir performs, because it is a fantastic wide shot of the castle and surroundig effects.
If you are going to be taking photos or video of the show, make sure to find a spot where the lamp posts doesn’t get in your way as they do light up at the end of the show and can cause a glare.
You can find more information about the holidays in the parks, theme park news, and travel tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Riptide Race is splashing into Aquatica Orlando in 2020 with a one-of-a-kind new park attraction that will thrill park-goers—Florida’s first-ever dueling water slide.
Starting atop a 68-foot tower, riders will be able to grab a raft and take their mark in side-by-side racing lanes at top speeds. Each raft holds a team of two, so every rider will have a partner as they plunge toward a hopeful victory. Plus, Riptide Race rafts feature low walls to ensure full view of the competition. Dueling face-to-face, racers will navigate tight loops and accelerations through indoor and outdoor sections. It’s a marathon to the finish through nearly 650 feet of splashing slide!
“Riptide Race will offer a ride experience you won’t be able to get anywhere else in Florida. Aquatica will be the first waterpark in the state to have a thrilling, and more importantly, dueling water slide,” said David Heaton, Aquatica Orlando vice president. “Riptide Race is the perfect addition to our attraction portfolio, complementing what is already one of the most family friendly waterslide lineups in Orlando.”
Riptide Race will have a height requirement of 42 inches to appeal to families with children, and the new slide will be conveniently located on the north side of the park next to Banana Beach Cook Out.
Assemble your squad and get ready to turn up the fun at Aquatica in 2020.
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!
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…
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!!!
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 holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town including ALL-NEW festive fare, heartwarming holiday shows, and merry memorable moments with fan-favorite characters each day starting November 16, 2019 through January 6, 2020.
Heartwarming Holiday Entertainment
Spirited shows and dazzling lights cover the park in holiday cheer all-season long, including an ALL-NEW show opening at Dragon Fire Grill.
NEW The Most Wonderful Time: You’re invited to a classy Christmas soirée, complete with jazzy piano solos, a live band and heart-melting vocal performances.
UPDATED The Holiday Sing-Along Train: This season, the park’s classic steam engine has a merry makeover, including more lights than ever. Join your Christmas Conductor for a live sing-along and raise your voice to spread cheer throughout the park.
Christmas on Ice: A frosty fan-favorite and the longest-running holiday show at Busch Gardens!
Elmo’s Christmas Wish: A song-filled spectacle featuring classic holiday tunes with a special Sesame Street twist.
Christmas From the Heart: A gospel-inspired celebration with a high-spirited finale.
Three Kings Journey: A musical tale of the famed trail to Bethlehem.
Carol of the Bells: Thousands of dancing Christmas lights blanket the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant and an iconic multi-story Christmas tree for a perfectly choreographed performance of “Carol of the Bells.”
Holiday Lights Reach NEW Heights
This Christmas season, park guests can take on Florida’s best thrill rides as they coast over millions of twinkling Christmas lights. The park’s newest addition, Tigris – Florida’s tallest launch coaster, is also dressed for the holidays – featuring NEW light displays inspired by the attraction. Near the Tigris realm, guests can stroll through the NEW Luminosity Lane – an immersive light tunnel synchronized to favorite holiday tunes.
Merry Memorable Moments with Festive Friends
FAN-FAVORITE Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®: Families are invited for a magical visit they’ll never forget with Mrs. Claus and jolly elves at Santa’s House, all nestled in the heart of Busch Gardens.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Guests can get nose to nose with the most famous reindeer around as they greet Rudolph, Clarice and Bumble from the classic Christmas tale at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland.
NEW Merry Mint Lane: Park guests will waddle with excite-mint as they get a close look at penguins and other animal ambassadors at the Animal Care Center. The area’s festive makeover includes photo opportunities with NEW Peppermint Pals, tasty treats and more!
NEW Sugar Plum Princess: ‘Tis the season for visiting royalty! Joining the Ice Princess and Poinsettia Princess, a new Sugar Plum Princess will greet guests near Sultan’s Sweets candy shop.
Festive Fare beyond Compare
From merry mealtime memories to food samples that are perfect for strolling through a winter wonderland, Christmas Town offers endless holiday flavors, including new dining experiences.
NEW Christmas Town Samplers: Throughout the Christmas Town Village, guests can stroll from cabin to cabin to sample delicious holiday dishes and drinks. From apple pie, sweet potato fries, chicken-and-waffle sandwiches to hot toddies and NEW pumpkin thrill shakes, the best way to savor and save during the holidays is with a Christmas Town Sampler.
NEW Breakfast with Elmo & Friends: Families can enjoy hugs and high fives from their favorite Sesame Street friends as they celebrate the holidays with family-friendly eats at Dragon Fire Grill. Available select dates in November and December, space is limited – reservations are encouraged.
NEW Taste of the Holidays Buffet: While savoring the beautiful view of the Serengeti Plain and Cobra’s Curse, families can feast on holiday favorites at the park’s historic Serengeti Overlook Restaurant. This new buffet menu features returning classic favorites, like our house-signature fried chicken and pumpkin cheesecake.
The gift that gives all year – a Busch Gardens Annual Pass!
Now is the best time for Holiday shoppers to give the gift of a year of park admission including Florida’s best thrill rides, including the all-new Tigris – Florida’s tallest launch coaster, with a Busch Gardens Annual Pass.
Limited-time pricing is available now for all Annual Passes, starting at $10.25 per month for everyone on the nice list, with no down payment. Guests can choose an Annual Pass with unique benefits including free parking, free Serengeti Safari, merchandise discounts and dining discounts in addition to special limited-time perks throughout the year.
In the New Year, Annual Pass members will enjoy exclusive ride time on Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world, when it opens in spring 2020.
For complete event information, including dates, times and restaurant reservations, visit ChristmasTown.com.
Disney Plus launch day is here, and the highly anticipated streaming service is rolling out an absolutely jaw dropping catalog of movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, as well as original programming.
If you have been living under a rock…here is what you need to know about Disney Plus streaming service.
Disney Plus is available for a monthly price of $6.99 or an annual rate of $69.99 in the U.S. (pricing varies outside U.S.), and the app is available for mobile and streaming devices.
The Disney Plus app experience features:
Unlimited Downloads: Subscribers have access to unlimited downloads of shows and movies on the Disney+ app to watch offline later on up to 10 mobile or tablet devices, with no constraints on the number of times a title can be downloaded per year. Once downloaded, subscribers can watch on the go and without an internet connection. The number of titles stored at one time on a device is dependent upon the available storage space on a subscriber’s device.
High-Quality Viewing: Subscribers will enjoy an ultra-high-definition viewing experience with up to 4K Ultra HD video playback in Dolby Vision ultra-vivid imaging, HDR10, and Dolby Atmos immersive audio on supported devices for available programming.
Commercial-free Viewing: Subscribers can access unlimited viewing of Disney+ content without having to watch a single commercial.
Profile Customizations: Subscribers can set up to seven different profiles and choose an avatar tailored to their favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel or Star Wars characters, with over 200 avatars available.
Concurrent Streaming: Disney+ allows subscribers to concurrently stream video content on up to four registered devices with no up-charges.
Multiple Languages: At launch, Disney+ will offer support for English, Spanish, French and Dutch languages, including both user interface as well as audio support and/or subtitles for library content, with additional languages available for Disney+ Originals.
Accessibility: The app offers support for closed captioning, descriptive audio, and navigation assistance to help subscribers with disabilities discover and enjoy their favorite stories.
As I was preparing for today’s Disney Plus launch, I made a list of what I’m looking forward to the most…and I’m warning you now…it’s random!
The Mandalorian
For Lucasfilm’s “The Mandalorian,” executive producers Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni joined series stars Pedro Pascal, Gina Carano, Carl Weathers and Giancarlo Esposito, along with Taika Waititi, who brings the droid IG-11 to life, to premiere the teaser trailer for the first Star Wars live-action series.
Robert A. Iger, chairman and chief executive officer, The Walt Disney Company, announced that new Disney Legend Ming-Na Wen will join the cast of the series.
Set after the fall of the Empire and before the emergence of the First Order, “The Mandalorian” follows the travails of a lone gunfighter in the outer reaches of the galaxy far from the authority of the New Republic.
The Imagineering Story
The Imagineering Story is a docuseries fromfilmmaker Leslie Iwerks that pulls back the curtain on the work of Imagineers who have made real-life magic at the Disney Parks for decades. Narrated by Angela Bassett, the six-hour series chronicles the history of the Imagineers, beginning with the inception of Disneyland and tracing the development of all the of the Disney parks and all of the fantastical lands within them (yes, including Galaxy’s Edge) to the present day.
The World According to Jeff Goldblum
Jeff Goldblum, who stars in and hosts “The World According to Jeff Goldblum” from National Geographic, gives fans a peek inside the series that takes viewers inside Goldblum’s always inquisitive and highly entertaining mind.
Nothing is as it seems in this new 12-episode series…and I am all in!
Forky Asks a Question
Tony Hale, who reprises his craft project turned toy role from “Toy Story 4” in the new collection of Pixar animated shorts “Forky Asks A Question.”
In the 10 shorts, Forky explores important questions about how the world works, such as: What is love? What is time?
Noelle
In this holiday comedy, Kris Kringle’s daughter, Anna Kendrick, is full of Christmas spirit and holiday fun, but wishes she could do something “important” like her beloved brother Nick, Bill Hader, who will take over from their father this Christmas.
When Nick is about to crumble like a gingerbread cookie from all the pressure, Noelle suggests he take a break and get away…but when he doesn’t return, Noelle must find her brother and bring him back in time to save Christmas.
Herbie Goes Bananas
This movie is just the best for when you are having a down in the dumps day and you need a giggle!
Swiss Family Robinson
FUN FACT: I got in trouble when I was younger, because I watched this video tape so much it broke in the VCR. My Dad was pretty angry.
The Apple Dumpling Gang
When we would go to the local video store, this was my go-to rental.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
My favorite Star Wars Movie…fight me!!!
Recess
Can you go wrong with this cartoon series?
No.
No you cannot.
Phineas and Ferb
If your aren’t singing, you aren’t watching this series correctly.
And that’s just a fact.
I am so ready to not leave my couch, but before I really get binging I have to start where it all started…with a Mouse!
The holidays at Disney Springs are filled with fun activities, entertainment, and sweet treats…but my favorite holiday experience is the Christmas Tree Trail!
Open from 11 am until 11pm until January 5th, the Christmas Tree Trail gets you in the yuletide spirit as you explore a winter wonderland where snow falls and holiday tunes fill the air.
Make your way through a winding path lined with 23 beautifully decorated Christmas trees inspired by some of your Disney favorites including:
Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Mickey & Minnie Mouse
Beauty & the Beast
Sleeping Beauty
Aladdin
Frozen
The Princess & The Frog
The Little Mermaid
Mulan
Haunted Mansion
Snow White
Pinocchio
Toy Story
Disney Villains
Dumbo
Cinderella
Robin Hood
Star Wars
Peter Pan
Tangled
The Lion King
Mary Poppins
Fantasia
In addition to the trees, you can visit Santa’s Chalet to meet the big guy himself to let him know what’s on your wish list.
You will need to visit the kiosk at the front of the trail, near Earl of Sandwich, or near Santa’s Chalet to get a return time as there is no standard queue.
To be in the queue you will need to give a Cast Member a cell phone number, and the system will send you two text messages – one to say you are in the virtual queue & one when it is your time to go to Santa’s Chalet for your visit.
Do note that once you arrive at the Chalet, all of your party needs to be present and you will still have a 30 minute wait to see Santa.
My best tip for avoiding a long wait is to arrive at the Christmas Tree Trail about fifteen minutes early to sign up for your virtual spot in the queue.
You can find more information about the holidays in the theme parks by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
In the new issue of Disney twenty-three, available exclusively to Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, writer/director Jennifer Lee and stars Kristen Bell (voice of Anna) and Josh Gad (voice of Olaf) share a peek at the incredible journey all of the characters must take to save the kingdom of Arendelle in the new movie.
After the phenomenal success of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen in 2013, the filmmakers knew they had more stories to tell. Why does Elsa have powers? And why doesn’t Anna? These questions—and many more—will be answered when Frozen 2 opens on November 22.
The issue also features a gorgeous wrap-around cover created exclusively for D23.
Also coming to theaters soon is Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the 42-years-in-the-making thrilling climax to the Skywalker saga. Star John Boyega and director J.J. Abrams talk about reaching this cinematic apex to the nine-film saga. Plus, Boyega shares some amusing on-set stories, including what his final on-set meal was with fellow cast members Daisy Ridley and Naomi Ackie (spoiler alert: “burgers and donuts”).
And Toy Story 4’s breakout spork gets his own collection of 10 shorts on Disney+ when Forky Asks a Question debuts this month. The creative team discusses bringing the hysterically frustrating character to the streaming service and reveals some of the big-name comedy stars lending their voices to the show including Carol Burnett, Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, and Betty White (who play the hilariously named Chairol Burnett, Melephant Brooks, Carl Reinosceros, and Bitey White, respectively).
Also included in the Winter issue of Disney twenty-three:
The author of One Day at Disney reveals the stories behind some of his favorite interviews in the dazzling new book
Lea Michele takes a Hawaiian holiday for the new ABC movie Same Time, Next Christmas
A look at the new Disney+ series The Imagineering Story from award-winning documentarian Leslie Iwerks
Stars Billy Campbell and Kathy Najimy preview the new animated series The Rocketeer
The stars and creative team behind Togo—about a man, a dog, and an unbelievable adventure—talk about the real-life inspiration for the new Disney+ film
Kristen Bell enjoys an Encore!, her delightful unscripted series that reunites the casts of high school musicals for one more unforgettable performance
Stunning concept art from beloved films celebrating milestone anniversaries, including Cinderella, Fantasia, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
The cast of the new Frozen on Broadway national tour takes a bow
A peek at all of the incredible Star Wars content and experiences on the way
Every exciting announcement from D23 Expo 2019
From the Desk Of: Disney store’s Jonathan Storey
Regular features including By the Numbers, Character Analysis, D Society, and Ask Dave
Disney twenty-three,which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in mid-November.
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 90-plus-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; a rich website at D23.com with members-only content; member-exclusive discounts; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99), Gold Family Membership ($129.99), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com.
