![]() Have a Disney Princess fan in your family? Well, while you're bound to make more than one princess sighting at Walt Disney World, there's so much more to see and do around the resort that your little royal will love. Whether you're traveling with a young princess-in-training or a more experienced, grown-up princess, there's plenty of offerings across property to get the royal treatment and make magical memories. Here are my top 10 "Princess Picks" to take in during your next WDW vacation: ![]() #1 - Dine with the Disney Princesses at Cinderella's Royal Table Put on your most sparkly tiara and join your favorite Disney Princesses for a meal inside iconic Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom! Whether you reserve a table for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you're sure to make magical memories that will last a lifetime as all of the day's visiting princesses come to meet you right at your table. Be sure to bring your camera and autograph book! Reservations are encouraged to experience a meal at Cinderella's Royal Table and can be made within 180 days of your trip. Be sure to plan ahead! #2 - Transform your little one into royalty at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Fantasies and dreams come true everyday at both Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique locations at WDW (Magic Kingdom and Downtown Disney) as little girls are completely made over into their favorite princesses with hairstyling, makeup, nail polish, accessories, and more. Various makeover packages are available for reservation and range from the $54.95 to $194.95, depending on package inclusions, and girls can choose to be transformed into Ariel, Princess Aurora, Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Tiana, Jasmine, Rapunzel, Merida, or Tinkerbell. Boys can even get in on the royal fun too with the Knight Package, which includes hairstyling, souvenir sword, and Mickey confetti. Guests ages 3 to 12 are available to receive a makeover, and reservations are strongly encouraged. #3 - Step into the Beast's library to enjoy Enchanted Tales with Belle Relive the magical, romantic story of Disney's Beauty and the Beast during this guest-interactive show starring Belle, Lumiere, and YOU! Guests enter Maurice's cottage located in the Magic Kingdom's New Fantasyland and are transported right into the Beast's library to surprise Belle with a retelling of "the tale as old as time."This attraction offers Disney's FastPass+ service, and is highly recommended. FastPass+ times can be chosen within 30 days of your trip if you purchase your theme park tickets before you arrive at Walt Disney World. Read more about FastPass+ in another post! #4 - Meet your favorite Disney Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall in the Magic Kingdom Grab your cameras and autograph books, and get ready to meet the famous Disney Princesses at one of the newest areas inside the Magic Kingdom. Located in Fantasyland, Princess Fairytale Hall currently allows you to meet Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Disney's newest princesses Anna and Elsa. While waiting in line, be sure to take a close look around the building for some familiar artwork and objects, including Cinderella's glass slipper and Snow White's storybook! FastPass+ is also offered at this attraction, and is especially recommended if your family would like to meet Anna and Elsa. #5 - Take in the sights and sounds of Disney's Festival of Fantasy Parade Celebrate the magic and wonder of Fantasyland in this all-new parade that marches through the Magic Kingdom every day at 3:00 PM. Featuring familiar princess faces including Belle, Tiana, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Merida, and Anna and Elsa, this moving spectacle is must-see! Be sure to claim a viewing spot along the parade route within plenty of time beforehand, as Main St. USA and Frontierland quickly fill up before step-off. Also, inclement weather does impact this entertainment offering and is subject to cancellation for the safety of the performers. #6 - Join Princess Aurora for My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party at the Grand Floridian Want to really feel like a princess? Well look no further than the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for this magical celebration of all things royal. Little princesses can expect storytelling, dancing, and a delectable, kid-friendly spread of sandwiches and treats. All children must be accompanied by an adult who are welcome to enjoy a bevvy of tea selections, cheese, and sandwiches. Your reservation includes various gifts for each princess-in-training, including a My Disney Girl doll dressed as Princess Aurora, silver bracelet, and fresh single rose, among others. Reservations made ahead of your trip are strongly encouraged as each party has a limited number of seats available. #7 - See the stage show spectacle Beauty and The Beast-Live on Stage at Disney's Hollywood Studios Sing along to the familiar tunes of one of Disney's most beloved animated classics brought to life on stage at the Sunset Boulevard Theater in Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park. Multiple shows are offered throughout the day, so there's bound to be a time that fits into your schedule. Approximate run time is 25 minutes, which is perfect even for the littlest of princesses who might not be able to sit in one place for an extended period of time. Showtimes are subject to change, so make sure to check the daily times guide in the event of a cancellation. #8 - Meet the whole royal family at Cinderella's Happily Ever After Dinner at the Grand Floridian The beautiful Grand Floridian Resort & Spa also plays host for another royal gathering every day, this one in the 1900 Park Fare buffet restaurant. Join Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine, and Anastasia and Drizella Tremaine as one of their guests of honor for a special character dining experience that allows you to get up close and personal with the original royal family. The buffet spread offers American selections including seafood, salad, pasta, and kid-friendly dishes like pizza and chicken tenders. Reservations are also encouraged for this dining experience and can be made within 180 days of your intended date. #9 - Travel to Norway and dine with the Disney Princesses at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in EPCOT This regal restaurant also offers up a place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with your favorite Disney Princesses, including Belle, Ariel, Cinderella, Snow White, and Princess Aurora (characters subject to change daily). The buffet/family-style fare includes both American and Norwegian favorites including kjøttkake, a dish made of pork, capers, and beef. A complimentary photo keepsake package per family is also included in each reservation. Reservations for this restaurant are also recommended and can be made within 180 days online or over the phone. #10 - Make a wish at Cinderella's magical Wishing Well at the Magic Kingdom Every princess has wishes and dreams, so make sure to take her to this secluded spot in the Magic Kingdom right by Cinderella Castle to make a wish. Nestled back by the Fairytale Garden where Merida is currently meeting guests, the well accepts wishes all day long. Plus, all of the money collected in the well is donated to various children's charities to help make even more wishes and dreams come true. An easy must-do for princesses of all ages! Visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/ for more information on all of these royal entertainment and dining opportunities, as well as others your princess might enjoy. Keep checking back for more vacation planning posts and my other "top picks" to see and do around WDW. Until the next post, see ya real soon! The Holiday season is undoubtedly my favorite time to visit the Walt Disney World resort, and as I look back my family's many holiday trips, most recently for Christmas 2014 and ringing in 2015, I wanted to write a post entirely dedicated to what to expect during the Holiday season at WDW, when to start planning, what to pack, etc. So put on your favorite Christmas tunes and join me as I "Celebrate the Season" at Walt Disney World!
**Make your hotel and flight reservations EARLY! Traveling to WDW during the Holidays isn't really something that can be done last minute, and I wouldn't recommend putting off making your reservations in anticipation of last minute steals and deals. I'd suggest to start looking at room rates and airfare between 8-6 months out from your intended check-in date. This includes thoroughly looking at the rates on Disney's site and various other travel sits like Expedia, Kayak, and Priceline, among others. But be mindful from the start that room rates and airfare will be marked up the closer your travel dates are to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, as compared to days in between. This is inevitable every year, so just know that from the start, your vacation is going to be priced higher during the Holiday season. **The Holiday decorations and seasonal entertainment offerings start in early November Want to experience WDW during the Holidays but still want to wake up at home on Christmas morning? Well the resort gets its Holiday makeover fairly soon after Halloween, so you're in luck! Early to mid-November, as well as the week after Thanksgiving are the perfect times to visit WDW to experience the Holidays and take advantage of all the seasonal opportunities, not to mention fewer crowds, shorter lines, and lower travel costs. This may be a little tricky as kids normally don't get out of school until the end of December and adults may have work obligations keeping them in the office, but deciding when you want to travel always has a lot of personal factors to consider. **Be prepared to encounter large crowds, long lines, and bigger travel parties The Holiday is season is one of the busiest times of year at Walt Disney World, so know from the get-go that there's going to be a lot of other people on vacation the same time as you; it's just how it goes. Christmas Day and New Year's Day are the two busiest days of the year at The Magic Kingdom, so know that if you absolutely want to be there on either of those days, you want to get up and over to the park entrance as early as possible in the morning. We've seen the park at capacity by 10:00 AM on Christmas Day many times! Prepare the younger guests traveling with you for this as well, as we've also seen many families lose small children throughout the day in the parks because of heavy crowds. Plan out your park days, make FastPass+ selections and dining reservations ahead of time, but have some flexibility in those plans. The more popular attractions are going to have long lines no matter what, prime parade viewing spots are going to fill up quickly, and dining locations that take advance reservations will be full, so have your "must-do" list and "okay-to-miss" list already sorted out before you travel. Patience is definitely a necessity during a vacation to WDW during the Holidays :) **Consider adding a night at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party to your vacation plans! One of the best ways to experience the Holiday entertainment offerings at the Magic Kingdom is to do so at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, held on select nights from early November to mid-December (2015 nights are between Nov. 8th and Dec. 18th). This is a hard-ticket event that grants you access to the Magic Kingdom after public operating hours that includes special entertainment, unique character meet and greets, limited edition merchandise, and enough cookies and hot cocoa to keep you full all night long. Not to mention that it snows on Main Street USA! Some of the entertainment offerings do become part of daily park operations for the last week in December (Holiday Wishes fireworks and Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, to name two), but the party is a really great way to experience everything with smaller crowds and shorter lines. Keep in mind that entrance to the party requires an additional ticket, at an additional cost, to your normal theme park ticket package. Tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party nights in 2015 are available NOW! Be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-very-merry-christmas-party/ to get yours before they're gone! **Don't forget to pack some heavier, Winter clothing! Even though you're headed to Florida, the nights can be chilly in November, December, and January. Don't think you'll be able to wear shorts and t-shirts all day and night while on your trip. Be sure to pack a few sweatshirts, pairs of jeans, gloves, and scarves. Believe me, you will need them! Disney sells many scarves, blankets, and sweatshirts during the Holidays, but be prepared before you travel if you want to save some cash. **Take advantage of as many limited time offerings as possible During the Holidays at WDW, Disney offers many things that aren't around all year long. Characters are dressed in their Christmas best, some parades and stage shows are changed to reflect the season, and the fireworks even get a holiday twist. As I mentioned, some of these entertainment offerings are only available at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, but most also become part of daily park operations after a certain date. Be sure to grab a times guide and map on your way into the parks each day, and do some research on the My Disney Experience app while planning your vacation. More info on My Disney Experience to come in another post! Here is a list of my top 5 favorite Holiday entertainment offerings: 1. Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade - Magic Kingdom See your favorite Disney characters parade through the Magic Kingdom in this WDW Holiday classic. Santa Claus himself also makes an appearance, so be sure to have your camera ready! Get your viewing spot early, as prime locations on Main St., USA and within the castle hub fill up quick. I suggest 30-45 minutes before step-off. 2. Celebrate the Season stage show - Magic Kingdom, castle stage Join in a festive celebration of the Holiday season right in front of Cinderella Castle, where you're sure to see some familiar Disney friends. Plus, have your signing voice ready to do some caroling! Definitely fun for the whole family. 3. Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights - Disney's Hollywood Studios, Streets of America Does your hometown have that one house that goes all out every Christmas with lights, music, and more? Well, I'm guessing they don't even come close to the Osborne Family, who has moved their famous display to Disney's Hollywood Studios from Arkansas to share it with the world every Holiday season. One you've gotta see to believe! 4. Candlelight Processional - EPCOT, America Pavilion On select nights, head over to EPCOT to hear a celebrity narrator, 50-piece orchestra, and massive choir tell the biblical Christmas story. Check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/epcot/candlelight-processional/ for the full schedule of narrators, as well as information on how to secure a seat with the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package. If not purchasing a Dinner Package, be sure to get in line for your desired show early. Certain narrators draw in larger crowds than others (Neil Patrick Harris had a 2-hour wait when I saw him!). 5. Holiday Wishes fireworks - Magic Kingdom The perfect way to cap off a day at The Magic Kingdom during the Holidays! Featuring both familiar Christmas and Disney tunes, Holiday Wishes celebrates everything we all love about the Holidays, as told by host Jiminy Cricket. Get your viewing spot early for this one, too! I suggest 30-45 minutes before start time. Visiting Walt Disney World during the Holiday season has become a beloved tradition for my family and is something I recommend everyone experience at least once. While it's not necessarily the best time to visit for Disney first-timers, it makes the most wonderful time of the year even more magical! For more information about Holidays at WDW, be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/holidays/. Have questions about planning your Holiday trip? Leave a comment below or send me an email! Until the next post, see ya real soon! ![]() Even though I've been to Walt Disney World many times, I enjoy experiencing new things with each visit back. There are always new attractions opening, stage shows debuting, improvements to classic favorites, and more. And along with those new things, I also have a list of "dream experiences" I consider to be somewhat of a Disney bucket list that I've compiled over the years. While some of these dreams have little likelihood of coming true, I can't help but hope to cross all of these off someday! Check out my personal bucket list for all of Disney's Theme Parks & Resorts across the globe, and dream along with me! *Visit all of Disney theme parks across the world Since the Disney name is widely-known across the world for their iconic characters, beloved stories, and USA's Disneyland and Walt Disney World, there have been other parks built to enjoy in other parts of the world! In France there's the Disneyland Paris Resort, which is comprised of two parks, seven resort hotels, and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district. I had the amazing opportunity to visit for two days about a decade ago when my mom and I vacationed in Paris, and I am so dying to go back soon! I like to describe it as a more elegant Disney Parks & Resorts experience all around, with softer colors, a lot of gold, and that refined French touch. Plus, there's a dragon living underneath their version of Sleeping Beauty Castle! And in Asia, there is so much more Disney magic to behold, with three unique destinations to visit! There's Hong Kong Disneyland with one theme park and two resort hotels, the Tokyo Disney Resort with two theme parks and three resort hotels, and the upcoming Shanghai Disney Resort, which will feature one theme park and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district. The Asian parks really take everything to the next level in storytelling and theming, and their parades and shows look like they're beyond anything currently showing the American parks. All of these places are definitely at the top of my Disney bucket list! *Spend the night at all of Walt Disney World's resort hotels Another task right at the top of my list is to spend at least one night in each and every resort hotel at Walt Disney World. I'm off to a good start with stays at Pop Century (our go-to resort), Caribbean Beach, and Coronado Springs, but there are so many others to explore! It's fun to visit other resorts for meals, shopping, and strolling between park days on longer vacations, but I really want to rest my head for a night in each! Some of the resorts I'm particularly interested in? Definitely the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian (those new bungalows!!!), and Animal Kingdom Lodge. That just means I have to take more frequent trips, right?! *Spend the night in the Cinderella Castle suite inside the Magic Kingdom My inner princess wants to see the inside of this very special suite more than anything! Tucked away high up inside Cinderella Castle, there is an ornately-decorated suite that was originally going to be an apartment for Walt and his family before he passed away in the beginnings of constructing the Magic Kingdom. The suite is now used for promotional giveaways and special events, when celebrities visit the park, etc. It cannot be booked and you can't just walk in, so this one is going to be a tough one to cross off! *Make it though the entire day at one of the Magic Kingdom's 24-hour events A few years back on leap day, Disney decided to keep both Disneyland and Florida's Magic Kingdom open for 24 hours straight as part of a campaign known as "One More Disney Day." Since that event was so successful, they've since hosted more like this, particularly to kick off the Summer season. I haven't yet gotten the chance to spend time at the Magic Kingdom for any of these events, but I certainly hope to someday. I already enjoy staying in the park from open to close, so why not take it up a notch and go for 24 hours?! *Go on a private cruise over Seven Seas Lagoon during Wishes I often see families taking special boat cruises around Seven Seas Lagoon (and Crescent Lake near the Boardwalk) to take in the Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks, and I would love to do the same! Whether it would be to celebrate something special, enjoy a private meal, or just to say I did it, it would be amazing! It's worth noting that there are no prices listed on the information page of the Walt Disney World website though, which leads me to believe this experience doesn't come cheap! *Go on a Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom Taking a ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris is one of my favorite parts of each day at Disney's Animal Kingdom park, so why not get one step closer during this guided tour?! You get to walk on suspension bridges right over hippos and crocodiles, ride up closer to giraffes, learn more from a personal guide, pose for complimentary photos, and so much more. It may come at a high price (up to $250 per person during peak times of the year), but all of the guest reviews say it's worth it! *Complete the RunDisney Wine & Dine half marathon Now that I've completed my first RunDisney race, I'm itching to run another! The annual Wine & Dine half marathon at Walt Disney World is at the top of my list, which is held in the Fall season, and at night! It's themed around EPCOT's annual International Food & Wine Festival, and even includes a special finisher's party in the park afterwards with plenty food and drink samplings. I already thoroughly enjoy visiting WDW at this time of year, so why not add another amazing RunDisney experience to the plans?! *Take a tour through Walt Disney's apartment above the Disneyland fire station and the Dream Suite above Disneyland's Pirate of the Caribbean attraction This is another one that isn't very easy to come by (at all), but a girl can dream, right? Walt had a small apartment over the fire station right on Main Street for himself and his family that allowed him to stay right in the middle of the magic, quickly come down to meet guests, and be close enough to attend to any issues and help Cast Members. The Disney Dream Suite above Pirates of the Caribbean was an idea originally conceived by Walt himself so he could invite friends and celebrities to stay right in the park as well, but also so they didn't have to be bothered by other visiting guests. The suite was eventually completed and furnished a few years ago using Walt's original renderings, and like the Cinderella Castle Suite, is only used for promotional purposes and special events. *Ride Space Mountain with the lights on This may be a trivial one to have amongst my list of big Disney dreams, but it's still something I really want to do one day! I've seen many photos and videos, plus stories from guests on how the lights really add to the thrill factor (those tracks come very close together!), and I think it would be another great memory to make on one of my favorite attractions. Some things may be harder to accomplish on this list than others, but anything is possible! Disney is always dreaming up new magical experiences to be had at their theme parks and resorts, so I'm sure my list will continue to grow with each visit and announcement from the Imagineers. Be sure to visit the Disney Parks Blog regularly for announcements like these and more to help you build your own Disney bucket list! And please share yours with me in the comments below; I want to share in your Disney dreams! Until the next post, see ya real soon! ![]() Even though I've visited Walt Disney World more times than I can count, I still find new things to discover every time I come back. And this year's trip for the Disney Princess Half Marathon was no exception! Between new attractions, snacks, and experiences, this WDW veteran got to do many new things, and do it all alongside a first-timer to boot - There's nothing quite as magical as that! Check out my favorite "firsts" from my most recent trip: ![]() 1. My first RunDisney race I ventured to Walt Disney World and structured our vacation around the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon, so that was easily the biggest highlight of the trip! 13.1 magical miles through the parks, 50,000 runners with amazing costumes throughout the weekend, and characters galore! Nobody hosts races like Disney, and this event is definitely something I'd recommend to any runner! I may already be planning another go at it for next year's event... Glass Slipper Challenge or Castaway Cay Challenge, anyone?! Check out my previous post for more info on the race and my experience! 2. Getting evacuated from an attraction While WDW is an amazing world of enchantment, fantasy, and innovative technology, their attractions do sometimes need quick tune-ups in the middle of the day. I experienced my first ever ride evacuation on The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Fantasyland during this trip, in which everything shut down so something could be fixed. It may not have been as exciting of an evacuation like some guests have experienced with Disney's thrill rides (AKA not as cool as seeing Space Mountain with the lights on), but it gave us another fun memory to bring home with us. Plus we got a free paper FastPass to use at one of a few select attractions, and we eventually got to come back later when the ride opened up again. Ah, paper FastPasses - Nostalgia at it's finest! 3. Finally enjoying a Dole Whip I'm sure some of you are reading this and saying, "You've been to Disney that many times and never had a Dole Whip?!" Yes, this was my first time ever enjoying the iconic pineapple treat. I truthfully never had an interest in trying one, as pineapple isn't my favorite fruit, but boy was I missing out! I went with the pineapple and vanilla twist soft serve option and it was wonderful! Definitely lives up to the hype other guests give it. You can find the different varieties to try at the quick-service Aloha Isle in Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom, which is on the right-hand side as soon as you enter the land from the Castle Hub. 4. Experiencing Disney's Festival of Fantasy parade If you've been following my blog for a while now, you know it's no secret that I'm a big parade, show, and street entertainment fan at WDW. Well the last time I visited prior to this trip was in August of 2013, in which the daily Celebrate a Dream Come True parade was still entertaining guests at the Magic Kingdom. Disney's Festival of Fantasy parade debuted in early spring of 2014, so I finally got to see it in person after watching it many times on YouTube in anticipation! I did thoroughly enjoy Celebrate a Dream Come True and was sad to see it go at the time, but Festival of Fantasy was even more amazing and fun than I expected it to be. The floats were spectacular, there were a ton of both classic and new characters, including Anna and Elsa from Frozen, and the costuming was so detailed. This parade was easily one of my favorite things from this trip (if not my top). A must-see the next time you visit the Magic Kingdom! 5. Purchasing my first Duffy plush I've had a longtime crush on Mickey's teddy bear Duffy the Disney Bear, and finally purchased my own plush version of him during this trip! If you're not familiar with Duffy or his story, here's the short version: When Mickey was preparing to go on a long journey, Minnie made him a teddy bear to take along and keep him company. Mickey named him Duffy, and they've gone on many adventures together since first meeting. You an actually meet Duffy yourself at the front of World Showcase in EPCOT and ask him about those adventures, get his autograph and photo, and give big hugs. He's so cute and cuddly and will definitely become my own travel companion now that I have my own! 6. Staying until the Kiss Goodnight at the Magic Kingdom When I visit the theme parks at Walt Disney World, I enjoy staying from open until close as much as possible to ensure I get in everything I want to do. Well at the Magic Kingdom, there's a short little show called the "Kiss Goodnight" that announces the park closing, and it's really a special way to end your day. Up until this trip I had never actually stopped to sit and watch the 3-minute announcement on my way out, as we usually visit during the Holidays and have to shuffle out with the crowds, so I made sure we got to see it at least once during our two visits to MK this trip. It really capped off the evening with extra pixie dust and made me tear up a little bit. A Cast Member told us they usually play the Kiss Goodnight at park closing, and then both 30 minutes and an hour afterwards (depending on the day of the week and time of year), so be sure to save those last few minutes of your day for it. I promise you it will be worth staying until the very end. 7. Dining with Pooh and friends at The Crystal Palace During my 2011 Disney College Program, I worked many shifts at the famous Crystal Palace buffet restaurant with my dear character friend Winnie the Pooh, but never got to actually sit down and eat there. As I planned this vacation I knew we had to make a reservation! It was definitely a magical breakfast as we met Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, and Piglet and celebrated Friendship Day in the "Pooh-rade" with other guests. The food was delicious, and it was really nice to fill our tummies before starting our day at the Magic Kingdom. It certainly lived up to it's wonderful expectations, and I would eat there again! 8. Dining with Donald and friends at Tusker House Another buffet restaurant that I heard so many good things about, but never visited! The Tusker House can be found in the Africa area of Disney's Animal Kingdom park, and is another great place to fill up and meet characters (only at breakfast, FYI). We enjoyed a spread of both traditional American buffet favorites and unique African offerings, and got to meet Mickey, Goofy, Donald, and Daisy in their safari gear. It was a little loud inside, but I really enjoyed everything - Especially their house jungle juice. YUM! And since we had a 9 AM reservation, we got to enter the park early and take a ton of pictures in front of the Tree of Life icon without any crowds in the background! An extra perk! 9. Adding more FastPasses at a FastPass+ kiosk I've said before in a previous post that I'm a big fan of Disney's new MyMagic+ technology and all that comes with it, including FastPass+. Well this trip was the first time I tried out adding on more FastPasses at the kiosks located inside the parks once our initial three had been used. And I found it to be really easy and convenient! When I pre-scheduled our first FastPasses for our park days (in which you get to choose three ahead of time), I made sure to choose the earliest possible times available so we could then continue to add on more throughout the day. At the FastPass+ kiosks, you can add one more FastPass on to your party's (or individual's) itinerary at a time for the park you're in. The lines to use the technology got a little long at times, but I knew exactly what I wanted before I got up there, so I was able to get in and get out quick. Definitely utilize this service when you're in the parks, because we were able to add on many more FastPasses each park day. Tip: If meeting the current popular characters (think Anna & Elsa, Princesses, and Mickey) is on the top of your must-do list, get your FastPasses ahead of time as part of your first three. We found that character greeting FastPasses were pretty much all gone by early afternoon. 10. Experiencing the extra special magic of a friend's first visit In all my past visits to WDW, I traveled with the same people (my family) who had been to the parks before. I was very fortunate to be traveling with a first-timer this trip, a friend from work, and being there with her and experiencing everything through her Disney-novice eyes was absolutely amazing. Between her "firsts" of seeing Cinderella Castle, giving Mickey a hug, riding Tower of Terror (my favorite!), and seeing Wishes light up the sky, I was on an emotional roller coaster throughout the week. I am so blessed to have been able to grow up going to the Disney Theme Parks & Resorts and sailing with Disney Cruise Line many times, that being with someone who has never gone before really had me flashing back to all of the magical moments from previous trips with my family. If you ever have the chance to take a first-timer, help them plan their trip, or even just connect with them when they come back, do it. It makes you see just how powerful and wonderful the magic of Disney really is. I can only imagine how it will be when I'm able to take my own children one day... Even if you're headed to Walt Disney World for the 100th time, there may be some things you've missed or skipped along the way. Take extra time to experience all of the little moments, because you never know what kind of magic they might add to your trip! As always, be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com for comprehensive information as your plan your visit, and do your research. What are your favorite "firsts" from previous trips to WDW? Do you have anything on your list you want to do during your next visit that would be a first? Tell me about them in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! ![]() No trip to Walt Disney World is complete without checking out the Magic Kingdom's nightly spectacular, Wishes! This spectacular display in undoubtedly one of my favorite experiences WDW has to offer, and I really believe everyone should plan to see it at least once during their vacation, whether they're a first-timer or a seasoned Disney veteran. With all of the current construction going on around the Cinderella Castle hub area in the park, it may be a little tricky getting the perfect viewing spot if you'll be visiting soon. But don't fret, because there are many places other than the famous hub to see the show! Check out some of my favorite (and non-traditional) venues to see the fireworks: **Tomorrowland bridge to the right of the hub Can't find a spot right in front of the castle? Try moving just to your right and claiming a spot on the bridge to Tomorrowland! While this area might be closed off during nights with heavy guest foot traffic (like we experienced this past New Year's Eve), it offers a great view if it's open. You can still pretty much see Cinderella Castle straight on, and you can get a closer look at Tinkerbell as she flies literally right above the bridge from the top turret of the castle. Plus, you can clearly hear the show's soundtrack from this spot! Since this is a pathway connecting the hub to another land of the park there will be people walking through during the show, but there is normally a specific path marked with masking tape and an accompanying Cast Member directing traffic. **Main Street USA Train Station In addition to the main castle hub area, Main Street USA also fills up during fireworks. If you walk a little closer to the park exit, you'll find the Train Station, which boasts an up-high viewing spot for the show directly facing the front of the castle. This is a great venue for viewing, and also offers a quick getaway after the finale right to the park exit below. Make sure to head to this area a little sooner than 30 minutes prior to showtime though, as it can fill quickly! **New Fantasyland While a good part of the area behind Cinderella Castle is blocked off during fireworks as a safety precaution (i.e. potential fallout), New Fantasyland back a little further offers stunning views of the show from the perspective of the Magic Kingdom's two other castles: The Beast's castle and Prince Eric's castle. You can still clearly hear the soundtrack, foot traffic is reduced as everyone is closer to the hub and Main Street, and you get a 360-degree perimeter feel as fireworks are shot off both in front of and behind you! It's also definitely a great option if you've got later dining reservations at Be Our Guest or want to ride Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid one last time before the park closes. **Disney's Polynesian Village Resort beach People often forget that you can still catch stellar views of the fireworks once you exit the park. One of these locations adds a particularly extra tropical feel on the beach at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Situated right on the Seven Seas Lagoon across from the Magic Kingdom, this resort boasts a beautiful beach area with sand and hammocks perfect for a less stressful viewing experience. The Polynesian is accessible from the Magic Kingdom via the Monorail, so you can make it there from the park in about 20 minutes or so. With all of the construction going on at this resort (it's going through a major expansion and refurbishment) some areas might be off limits, so check everything out well before showtime to make sure you can access the beach for viewing. **Disney's Contemporary Resort balconies Another awesome spot outside of the Magic Kingdom! The Contemporary can be found directly next to the park, even accessible by a walking trail, so it's very close by and easy to get to after a long day of fun. There are multiple observation decks at this resort for fireworks viewing, and you can even see Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain from most vantage points! See my photo above - That was our view from one the stairway balconies on New Year's Eve 2014! You can access the main observation deck on level four of the resort, where the main gift shops and dining areas are found, or you can snag a viewing spot on the deck right outside of The California Grill if you're dining there that evening. There are also smaller balconies along the outdoor stairwells of the resort that connect guest room levels, but be mindful those doors cannot be opened from the outside, so you'll have to walk all the way down the stairs to ground level once the show is over. **Transportation and Ticket Center This is another great viewing spot in front of the Seven Seas Lagoon that is easily accessible by the Monorail right from the Magic Kingdom. The TTC serves as the main parking lot for the park, complete with it's own Monorail and ferryboat stations, and if you position yourself right between these stations, you can directly see Cinderella Castle in the distance and hear the show's soundtrack! The lighting won't be reduced in this area like it is in the park, but it's a much less crowded spot that again allows for a quick exit to your vehicle after the finale before the crowds disperse. I wouldn't recommend this viewing location for first-timers, as you really want to be closer to Cinderella Castle, but it's a great option nonetheless. You don't want to miss Wishes, so be sure to secure your viewing spot (wherever you may choose) with plenty of time before it's set to begin that evening. This show is one of the most popular experiences around Walt Disney World, and it brings in many guests every night. FastPass+ viewing is offered for this show, so you always have that options as well (if it's available that night). Have a plan for the day you want to visit the Magic Kingdom and be prepared to stake your claim at least 30 minutes ahead of showtime (and even an hour beforehand, if you're visiting during peak times). Also remember that Disney's entertainment schedule is always subject to change, and weather can affect showtimes. Be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/magic-kingdom/wishes-nighttime-spectacular/ for complete info on the show and some additional tips. Where do you like to enjoy Wishes? Tell me in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! ![]() As Walt once said: "Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world." Well, Disney Theme Parks and Resorts continues to uphold that standard set by the original Imagineer and build upon our beloved parks, attractions, and experiences so they may live on forever. And sometimes, that means saying goodbye to some favorites to make way for new technologies and innovations. It isn't always easy, but we have to trust that something bigger, better, and more magical is on the horizon. While it's not Throwback Thursday just yet, I wanted to take a look back at some of my favorites that I've said goodbye to over the years and the magical memories that live on with them. 1. Spectromagic nighttime parade- Magic Kingdom Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE me some Main Street Electrical Parade, but I also dearly miss MK's original nighttime Parade spectacle, Spectromagic. This glittering, fantastical display ran from 1991 to 1999 and then returned for a second go-around from 2001 to 2010. Like the current Main Street Electrical Parade, it featured thousands of sparkling lights, a fantastic score of new and classic Disney tunes, and my favorite Jiminy Cricket as your host and narrator. The floats included units for The Little Mermaid, Fantasia, and Cinderella, among other favorites, and not to mention an incredible cast of characters and dancers. While I know I'd hate to see the Main Street Electrical Parade go, I'd also rejoice in seeing Spectromagic come back! 2. Tarzan Rocks! stage show - Disney's Animal Kingdom This is one show I genuinely miss over the current production that is housed in the Theater in the Wild at Disney's Animal Kingdom (No offense, Nemo fans!). Now staging Finding Nemo: The Musical, the once open-air theater was home to Tarzan Rocks!, a 30-minute stage journey through the story and music of Disney's Tarzan. It ran from 1999-2006 and featured a cast of dancers, acrobats, singers, live musicians, and inline skaters. The theater closed in 2006 so it could be refurbished to it's current air-conditioned, indoor location and the show was never performed again. The current Nemo show is definitely cute and a fun time for younger guests, but it can't hold a candle to this! And who doesn't love Phil Collins?! 3. Disney Channel Rocks! street show - Disney's Hollywood Studios Another show I dearly miss and secretly wish would magically appear any time I visit DHS. This mini parade and outdoor show featured some tunes from Disney Channel's then-current hits like The Cheetah Girls, High School Musical, and Camp Rock, among others, and a cast of talented singers and dancers. It took place in front of the giant Sorcerer Mickey hat at various times throughout the day, and little ones even got to get involved during a dance number with the cast. The energy was always high and really livened up the courtyard in front of the Great Movie Ride. It ran from 2010 to 2013 and wasn't replaced by anything new after it's final run. RIP, DCR... 4. PUSH the talking trashcan - Magic Kingdom Why did PUSH ever have to leave?! This magical, talking waste receptacle entertained guests in Tomorrowland and in front of Cinderella Castle all day long with wise-cracking jokes, tricks, and songs. After a third-party contract ended, PUSH permanently left the Magic Kingdom and hasn't been seen since. My family will particularly always remember the time he warmed up the crowd before the 3:00 parade only to then exclaim "THERE'S A BUG ON ME! GET IT OFF ME! GET IT OFF ME!" We'll miss you PUSH - You could never be replaced! 5. Maelstrom attraction - EPCOT This classic attraction in World Showcase's Norway pavilion closed just this past Fall after the announcement that it will refurbished into a Frozen-inspired area with a character meet and greet location, restrooms, and revamped attraction. It was previously a moderate thrill level ride through the story of Norway's troll legends, Viking folklore, and current economic state (odd, I know), and definitely had a cult following of devoted fans. I particularly enjoyed the attraction as I have Norwegian ancestry in my family history, and was sad to see if go. But, it did open in 1988, and I think the Frozen facelift will capture many new fans and make EPCOT a little more attractive for younger guests. 6. The Magic, The Memories, and You nighttime spectacular - Magic Kingdom While I do enjoy the current Celebrate the Magic castle projection show that replaced this innovative nighttime masterpiece, nothing will be able to ever live up to the emotional impact this show had on me. I saw this spectacular display for the first time after I completed my Traditions (Disney's orientation) class on one of the first days of my Fall 2011 Disney College Program and cried like a baby right there in the castle hub amid hundreds of other guests. This show featured the same projection technologies the current show uses, but it showcased hundreds of Photopass pictures taken that very day in the Magic Kingdom, so you could actually see yourself projected onto Cinderella Castle. The black and white sequence featuring vintage video and photos from the early days of Disneyland still gets me choked up. 7. Move it, Shake it, Celebrate it! dance party - Magic Kingdom This interactive dance party is another one of my favorites in which the current replacement leaves me wanting more/missing what once was. MiSiCi was recently revamped into the Move it, Shake it, Dance and Play it! street party, which is very similar, but leaves out many of the characters and music from the first edition that really made the party something special. I particularly miss my Sebastian! The new dance party still comes to the castle hub multiple times a day and invites guests to get up and dance, but a part of me really misses MiSiCi. 8. "The Hat" icon - Disney's Hollywood Studios Another very recent removal that really tugs at my heartstrings. Since it was first announced that Disney's Hollywood Studios would begin removing the giant Sorcerer Mickey hat icon from the park to make way for new refurbishments and renovations, it had a very polarizing response. Some people rejoiced, and some people were saddened (me being one of them). I personally loved the hat and cry a little bit inside each day as I check in on it's current state of removal. There's talks that it's going to be moved someplace else, so let's hope we see it again soon! 9. Skyway attraction - Magic Kingdom One of the things I remember from my first visit to Walt Disney World in 1998 is the Skyway attraction that connected Fantasyland to Tomorrowland via hanging gondolas high in the sky. It was open from 1971 to 1999 and offered stunning views of the park, a great opportunity to relax your feet and people watch, and an extra attraction to ride during a visit to the Magic Kingdom. It was never replaced with another version, and the former Fantasyland station is now home to the Tangled-themed restroom/charging area (which I do love, BTW). 10. Paper FastPasses And who could exclude paper FastPasses from a list like this?! While I do really love the new FastPass+ technology available with Disney's MagicBands, I do miss using and collecting paper FastPasses from trips to WDW. I still have many unused ones from my favorite attractions that serve as great souvenirs - I mean, they do have the exact date you visited the park right printed right on them! I think the new system is very green, efficient, and easy, but I'll miss one of Disney's finest vacation innovations that set a high precedent within the theme park industry. I'll never throw out my old paper FastPasses! Is there anything you wish would come back that I didn't include on my list? Tell me about it in the comments below! I love hearing the memories and stories others bring back from their Disney vacations, especially when it comes to the polarizing topic of attractions and shows gone by. Be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/attractions/ for a complete list of what's available for your enjoyment during your next trip. Until the next post, see ya real soon! As a former entertainment cast member at Walt Disney World, I enjoy taking time to meet Disney's famous characters whenever I make a trip back to Orlando. Whether you're a fan of the Disney Princesses, Winnie the Pooh and his pals, Pixar, or "the Fab Five," there are many fabulous places to meet your favorite characters around WDW. So turn on your camera and have your autograph books open, because these are my top 10 favorite character spots:
1. Town Square, Magic Kingdom Is there any place more iconic at Walt Disney World than Main Street USA? Stop by Town Square outside of The Emporium throughout the day for the chance to meet a variety of Disney friends, including Pluto, Snow White, and Mary Poppins, among others. A couple of characters are usually out and about at one time, each with their own line, so there are many chances to take photos, get autographs, and give big hugs all day long. With most outdoor locations like this, characters usually spend 30 minutes or so meeting guests between breaks for "a spot of tea" or to "check on the dwarves," if you catch my drift, so don't worry if you see one of your favorites walking away - They'll be right back! Each character always has one or more attendants with them, so they'll be able to answer any questions your may have or let you know when the characters will be back. 2. Princess Fairytale Hall, Magic Kingdom One of the newest character meet and greet locations at the Magic Kingdom, this is the place to go if you're a Disney Princess fan. Princess Anna and Queen Elsa, and Cinderella and Rapunzel are currently meeting guests here throughout the day, and FastPass+ is offered if you want to combat the major crowds they've been bringing in (especially Anna and Elsa). Plus, Disney's Photopass photographers are always available to help with capturing the magic during your meet and greet. On your way in, be sure to take a look at all of the details in the architecture and design! 3. Town Square Theater, Magic Kingdom If you're looking for a chance to meet with the big cheese himself or shrink down to the size of a fairy, then Town Square Theater is where you need to be! There are two different character experiences to be had at this location: visit with Mickey in his magic show dressing room, or step into Pixie Hollow to meet Tinkerbell. Each character has a FastPass+ line and meets throughout the day, so there are many chances to stop by and say hello. And the air conditioning in the building certainly makes for a nice break from riding rides and the Florida heat! 4. Character Spot, EPCOT Stop into Character Spot in Future World to get up close and personal with some of "The Fab Five" characters including Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy! This is a great location for young guests and those families who want to meet a couple characters at once and get on with the rest of their day. Again, FastPass+ is offered, Photopass photographers are there, and the area is air conditioned. Great place for meeting characters efficiently and with shorter lines in EPCOT! 5. The Magic of Disney Animation, Hollywood Studios This location hosts a multitude of Disney friends all day long, including some "surprise" meet and greets during select afternoons. You can meet Sorcerer Mickey, Minnie Mouse, Wreck it Ralph and Vanellope, and Mr. Incredible and Frozone, all under one roof! Each character has their own themed area, queue line, and photographer, so it does take a little bit of time to see everyone, but it's great for checking off many of the meet and greets on your list in one location. Be forewarned though as this building gets fairly loud and chaotic with a lot of young guests. And if you want to see what I mean by "surprise" meet and greets, head to this location in the late afternoon/early evening during nights Fantasmic! is showing. 6. Pete's Silly Sideshow, Magic Kingdom Another new character area in the Magic Kingdom that takes Disney theming to a whole new level, Pete's Silly Sideshow in the Storybook Circus area allows to you to meet Minnie, Daisy, Goofy, and Donald as their circus personas. It's a great place for kids of all ages and offers great photo ops with bright costuming, backgrounds, and details. There are two different lines (one to meet the girl characters, and one to meet the boys), so guests are moved through efficiently and easily. Tip: Head to this section of New Fantasyland first in the morning to see these characters and experience the rest of the area's attractions without any lines! 7. Animation Courtyard, Hollywood Studios Once you're done meeting characters inside The Magic of Disney Animation building, visit the Animation Courtyard right outside to meet Jake and Sofia from Disney Junior. This is the location to visit if you have little ones in your travel party and are not dining at Hollywood and Vine for a character meal (the only other place to meet Disney Junior pals). Both Jake and Sofia have their own area, but they're right next door to each other so you can meet them both fairly quickly and easily. Just make sure younger guests know what to expect to avoid a meltdown! 8. United Kingdom, EPCOT Travel over to World Showcase EPCOT and you'll see characters in each themed country pavilion. I especially love stopping in the UK for character meet and greets though, as you can see Pooh, Tigger, Alice, and Mary Poppins all within a few steps of each other. These meet and greets typically feel a little more organic and carefree, as each location usually has shorter lines that allow for more character interaction with each guest. No FastPass+ is offered, but Photopass photographers are normally available at each area to help you. And of course character attendants are there as well. 9. Pixar Place, Hollywood Studios If you're a Toy Story fan, or have one in your travel party, then you definitely need to walk through Pixar Place by the Toy Story Midway Mania ride. You can meet Buzz and Woody in an enclosed meet and greet area across from the ride, but you may run into a Green Army Man or two roaming the street as well. Have your camera ready! Buzz and Woody's line is often long, but they do meet guests throughout the day, so you age plenty of time to stop by and say hello. 10. Fairytale Garden, Magic Kingdom The carefree Scottish Princess Merida is ready to meet guests of all ages in the Fairytale Garden right next to Cinderella Castle. Join her for some archery practice and coloring before getting the chance to take photos and get her autograph. I love this area because it's intricately themed and offers the "play and greet" experience for kids that adds extra magic. Lines can be long though, so be prepared to wait for at least a little bit of time. No matter which characters you meet on your vacation at Walt Disney World, you're sure to have a magical experience and bring home many memories. Character meet and greets are for kids of all ages, so don't be afraid to hop in line if you come across your favorite Disney friends during your park days. And be sure to take a look at my previous post for tips to make your character experiences as magical, seamless, and fun as possible. For a compete list of where to meet characters around Walt Disney World, visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/#/character-experiences/. Do you have any special Disney memories of meeting characters? Share them with me in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Aside from the popular and well-known parades and nighttime spectaculars, Walt Disney World has so many other fun entertainment options that everyone in the family can enjoy together. Whether you plan to see a sit-down show or come across impromptu street performances, there really is entertainment around every corner at all four theme parks and Downtown Disney. Heck, you could even spend entire days without riding any rides and instead experience all of the entertainment offerings. Take a look at my top 10 favorites, aside from parades, fireworks, and nighttime spectaculars, at WDW.
1. Dream Along with Mickey, Magic Kingdom Top of my must-do list for each visit to the Magic Kingdom! Join your favorite Disney friends right in front of Cinderella Castle for a celebration of the magic in our dreams and wishes. The entire show lasts about 20 minutes, so it's the perfect amount of time for a little stop between attractions, and little ones won't get bored. There's no seating, so be sure to check out the performance times before you arrive and head to the castle-front stage a few minutes in advance (I'd suggest a least 5-10). During peak seasons there can be as many as six performances a day, but the schedule is subject to change. And definitely have your cameras ready! 2. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, Hollywood Studios Relive the "tale as old as time" with this 25 minute live-action performance inside the Sunset Boulevard theater at Disney's Hollywood Studios. You'll see Belle, the Beast, all of the enchanted objects, and the one and only Gaston. There are usually five to six performances a day, but the theater definitely fills up each time, so get your seats early (I'd suggest 10-15 minutes). FastPass+ is also offered at this show, so take advantage of that if you'd like guaranteed, preferred seating for your travel party. 3. Festival of The Lion King, Animal Kingdom One of my favorite parts of any day at Animal Kingdom! Step into the brand new Harambe Theater in the Africa section of the park, and experience this 30 minute spectacular with singing, dancing, aerialists, and your favorite Lion King characters. Kids can even get in the action towards the end of the show, so get in line early for a prime seat. While there are many performances throughout the day (usually eight to ten), this is one of the most popular offerings at Animal Kingdom, and the theater always fills up. Get there early, or get a FastPass for a guaranteed seat! 4. Magic Kingdom Welcome Show/Main Street Trolley Show, Magic Kingdom Easily the best way to start your day at the Magic Kingdom, the Welcome Show is always on my must-do list. This ten minute production takes place just inside the main gates of the park in front of the train station about 20 minutes before park opening, complete with characters and fireworks! Mickey Mouse and various Disney friends arrive on the Walt Disney World Railroad to officially open the park for the day, and a family of the day is crowned. This show always brings tears to my eyes, and you really feel the magic of Disney all around you. Just be careful during busy times and on Holidays, as many guests will be packed inside the gates with you to watch the show. I'd definitely try to arrive at the gates around 30-45 minutes before the park opens to make sure you're there in time. The Main Street Trolley Show adds onto the Welcome Show, as the citizens of Main Street travel on their trolley to perform for you. They usually stop around three or four times in the morning, and it's a great show that takes you back in time to the heartlands of America. We always try to take a few minutes to stop and watch while everyone else rushes and runs around us. It's sure to make you smile! 5. World Showcase Players, EPCOT Stop by the UK pavilion in World Showcase for a 25 minute street performance and retelling of one of Shakespeare's beloved stories. These players aren't all they're cracked up to be though, and they are definitely prepared to embarrass a few guests during their shows! We stumbled upon them a few years back, and always make sure to carve out some time in our day for one of their performances. They usually come by the Rose and Crown Pub around five times a day, so check out the times guide and your MyDisney Experience app while you plan your days! 6. Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! Street Party, Magic Kingdom Another one of my Magic a Kingdom must-dos! This fun and vibrant parade-like street party makes its way to the Castle Hub area three to four times a day, and the cast wants you to join them. You can shake your tail feathers with Donald, conga with Mr. Incredible, and do the twist with Minnie, among other Disney friends. Don't be shy, and get out there! Even if you don't have too much time during your busy day, each street party is 35 minutes, so you have plenty of time for a little celebrating. 7. Jeweled Dragon Acrobats, EPCOT Head over to the China pavilion in World Showcase for this stunning acrobatic performance of strength and balance. There are usually around five shows a day, each about 20 minutes long, and everyone in the family is sure to be stunned and awed. We like to grab a bite from the Lotus Blossom Cafe and claim a spot a couple minutes before start time, because guests gather around rather quickly as soon as the music begins, taking up the viewing area. 8. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, Hollywood Studios If you're an action-adventure fan and want to see how movies are made, then you definitely don't want to miss this one! This 30 minute production gives you a glimpse into how many of Indiana Jones' epic movie stunts are put together, and you even have the chance to be a part of the show. Get to the theater early, get a seat close to the front, and be sure to volunteer when the director asks! FastPass+ is also offered here if you'd like to guarantee your seat. 9. Finding Nemo - The Musical, Animal Kingdom Get up close and personal with Nemo and friends in this live-action retelling of Marlin's quest to find his son. It's a 40 minute production that takes place around five times a day, and FastPass+ is offered for guaranteed seating. This is definitely a great show for little ones and adults alike, and it's almost guaranteed that you'll leave singing the bevy of original songs. The theater can be found at the back of the Dinoland USA section of the park, so definitely give yourself some time to make your way over and get in line early. 10. The Dapper Dans, Magic Kingdom A Disney Classic that's always a must-do. The iconic barber shop quartet can be found along Main Street USA throughout the day to perform 20 minute sets of familiar a cappella tunes. If you see them, definitely take a few minutes to stop and listen. They're also always happy to take photos with you and get you involved in their act, so don't be shy! A day at the Magic Kingdom just isn't complete without the a Dapper Dans. There's a lot more magic to experience with all of the entertainment offerings at Walt Disney World, so don't be afraid to slow down and take in everything you can. Whether you visit one of the many theaters for a large production or come across a street show, you're sure to have fun! For more information on all of the entertainment offerings at WDW, be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/. Do you have your own list of favorites? Tell me about then in the comments below! Until the next post, see ya real soon! The Fall season offers up a wealth of unique experiences to be had at Walt Disney World, especially around Halloween! Visiting WDW at this time of year is great for first-timers or families looking to beat the Holiday crowds and Florida Summer heat, but I'd really recommend it to anyone. With limited time entertainment offerings, seasonal decorations, and special events, Halloween at WDW is a spook-tacular, fun time for all ages!
Here are some of my favorite things about Halloween at Walt Disney World: **Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom Easily the best part of visiting WDW during Halloween, Mickey's No-So-Scary Halloween Party is a hard-ticket event offered on select nights at the Magic Kingdom from mid-September through Halloween. Valid theme park admission is required in addition to an event ticket, and you receive a special bracelet upon entering the park to enjoy the party all night. Highlights of the event include the Boo to You Halloween parade, trick-or-treating around the park, and rare character meet and greets, among other entertainment offerings. Plus there's the Hallowishes fireworks display, which lights up the sky around Cinderella Castle, and a special appearance by the Headless Horseman before the parade. Costumes are encouraged for all guests, so don't be the only one not dressed up! And don't worry, the name of the event holds true, so little ones are sure to have just as much fun as the big kids. The party goes from 7:00 PM until midnight, so make sure to avoid the Magic Kingdom on party nights if you don't have a ticket - The normal admission hours are shorter. The party dates for 2015 have been announced! Check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/ to get your tickets NOW! **Special Halloween and Fall decorations around every corner Fall is one of my favorite seasons, and all of it's rich colors and sights can be found around WDW in the theme parks and resort hotels. My favorite decorations can be found on Main St., USA in the Magic Kingdom - The iconic area is lined with hundreds of unique jack-o-lanterns, garlands, and scarecrows, among other items. Make sure to have your camera ready wherever you go! **Seasonal food and snack options Specialty food and snack items can be found all around the resort during Halloween time, especially sweet treats! You can indulge in caramel apples, cupcakes, and rice krispie treats all themed for Fall and Halloween in the familiar shapes of the Disney villains, ghosts, and monsters. Definitely make stops at at the Candy Cauldron at Downtown Disney West Side and the Main Street Bakery at the Magic Kingdom for some of these unique treats. Plus, there's plenty of pumpkin-flavored goodies to enjoy all over the parks! **Limited time merchandise One of my favorite activities during any vacation at Walt Disney World is shopping! Tons of limited time and Halloween-specific merchandise can be found all around the theme parks and resorts during the Fall months. Things like pins, stuffed animals, t-shirts, and collectibles themed to the season are offered from September through mid-November, before Christmas and other Holiday season items are put in the shelves. Don't forget about those car antenna toppers either! **Resort hotel costs and airfare are typically lower than the Holiday season and Summer months A big advantage to vacationing at WDW during the Fall and Halloween is lower overall costs. This time of year is considered to be part of the "off-season" or non peak times, so crowds are lighter, lines are shorter, and rates are lower. If you're looking to travel on a budget, definitely consider his time of year! If you're a fan of all things spooky and want to experience a different side to Walt Disney World, then visiting during Halloween is the perfect time for you! Be sure to check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/ for more information. Have you ever traveled to WDW during Halloween? Share your stories in the comments below and let me know what you love most! Until the next post, see ya real soon! Disney is always trying to make enjoying family time together even more magical at their theme parks. Their latest innovation, FastPass+, does just that and so much more! A service available to all Walt Disney World guests with valid theme park admission, FastPass+ allows you to actually pick and reserve FastPasses for select attractions, parades, shows, and character meet and greets before you arrive at WDW. Haven't heard of FastPass+ or are unsure of how to use it? It's really quite easy!
Before making any FastPass+ selections, there are a couple of things you have to do. First and foremost, you'll want to download the free My Disney Experience app, available on the App Store, and create a Disney account. You'll be able to link your hotel reservations to your account to see a snapshot of your vacation and have important information and numbers at your fingertips. You'll also be able to connect with your family members and the rest of travel party once they set up individual accounts. You each can put in personal information like your birthdays, favorite attractions, and favorite characters so the app can make suggestions for fun during your vacation. If you're the designated vacation planner or family leader, you'll also want to have access to all of your travel party's accounts so you can add everyone to the vacation plans, including on your FastPass+ plans! My Disney Experience also offers a wealth of other info and capabilities, so stay tuned for a post dedicated entirely to My Disney Experience, Magic Bands, and more! After you've added your vacation reservation to your account and connected with your family, you'll want to link your park tickets to your reservation if you did not initially purchase them with your vacation package. Make sure your number of days and type of ticket are correct (park hopper, water park fun and more, etc.), because you'll be reserving your FastPass+ choices to those tickets. Once your reservation and tickets are linked to your account, you're ready to make your FastPass+ selections! If you're staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel, you'll be able to reserve your FastPasses 60 days in advance of your park days. If you're staying off-property, you can make your selections 30 days in advance of your park days. But just remember it's 60 or 30 days from each individual park day, not check-in day, so you'll want to have a schedule in place for when you want to visit each park (i.e. Magic Kingdom day 1, Hollywood Studios day 2, etc.). But don't worry about getting on your app exactly 60 days out to start making FastPass+ selections, because you can actually make your choices and modify them right up until your experience time. But we'll get to that in a minute! Guests are currently allowed to reserve 3 FastPass+ selections per park day in advance. Those 3 can include any of the attractions or experiences where FastPass+ is offered (click here to see a complete list of those attractions, character experiences, and entertainment offerings). Previously, you could only make your selections from different "tiers" of offerings, making it a little harder to use FastPass+ on all of the most popular attractions, but that's since been changed. Just search for your date, pick a park, and then make your selections. When you choose an experience, you'll be given 3 times to choose from and schedule in your plans. Just click the time you want, add the guests who also want that time, and you're set! Easy as that. You'll then be able to see your FastPass+ selections in your vacation plans, which are right on the home screen when you log into the My Disney Experience app. Your selections will be loaded onto your Magic Bands and ready for use when you head to the parks. But what happens if you want to change your FastPass+ times or change attractions entirely? You can modify your selections whenever you want, even right up until your already scheduled experiences. Just open your app and make the changes you want. Something that's relatively new to FastPass+ is the ability to add more selections to your plans each day after your first 3 are up. Just pay a visit to any of the FastPass+ kiosks found around all of the theme parks with your Magic Band to add more fun. Be aware that you'll only be able to add those additional experiences to your plans in the corresponding park (so no, you can't add a FastPass for the Tower of a Terror to your plans while you're in the Magic Kingdom - you'll have to make it to Hollywood Studios first). All you'll need when it's time to use your FastPasses is your Magic Band! Just walk up to the appropriate attraction, show area, etc., and tap your band to the Mickey icon under the FastPass+ entrance. If Mickey lights up green, you're in! If he lights up blue, you might still have time until your FastPass+ window opens, or you might be at the wrong attraction. If you ever forget a time or don't remember where to head next, just pull out your smart phone and open your app for a reminder. So get out there and start adding more magic to your vacation! I'd definitely recommend utilizing FastPass+ when applicable during your vacation, as it makes experiencing your favorite parts of the parks even easier than before. When making plans, definitely consider your family's "must-dos" and take a look at what the most popular attractions are to utilize FastPass+ to its full ability. Be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com for comprehensive information about FastPass+, and check out the FAQ page. Don't forget to send me an email through my Contact Me page if you've got questions! Until the next post, see ya real soon! ![]() Meeting characters and taking in the parks' different parades and shows are definitely on my "must-do" list when I visit Walt Disney World. Each theme park offers various character meet and greet opportunities, character dining opportunities, and interactive character dance parties to fit the theme and story of the respective area/land, and some even offer Disney's Fastpass+ service to bring down your wait time. As a former Character Performer at Walt Disney World, here are some tips and advice to help make your character meet and greets even more magical: #1 - Make sure your camera/phone is ready and autograph book is open before your turn Disney is all about keeping lines moving, so for your sanity and courtesy to Cast Members and other guests, make sure you and your accompanying guests are prepped and ready before it's your turn to meet the characters. This includes having the cap off of your autograph pen! Plus, you'll be able to capture every magical moment with your camera turned on right from the beginning. Some of the best character meet and greet photos are those reaction shots when kids of all ages get a first glimpse of their favorite characters. Extra special tips for parents: If you're traveling with more than one adult in your party, have one stand in line with your child to get them ready for their meet and greet and have the other adult position themselves to get a reaction shot from the side or behind the character (if the location permits). Getting your little princess' big grin as she runs to meet Cinderella for the first time will be a priceless shot! #2 - If you want to get a character's autograph, bring a chunky pen or Sharpie Most of the characters you'll meet at WDW have paws, claws, or wear gloves, so help them out by giving them a nice, big pen to sign your autograph book. This will both help them see where you want them to sign and get a firm grip on the writing utensil. Avoid handing them pencils of any size, gel pens, or crayons. Sharpies are definitely your best bet, and they can really snazz up your autograph book if you assign certain colors for characters based on their attire (i.e. green for Peter Pan, orange for Tigger, brown for Chip & Dale). #3 - Characters can sign many things, but not everything Do you have a favorite Disney ball cap or t-shirt you'd like a character to sign? Maybe a special pillow case you purchased just for your Walt Disney World vacation? Characters can sign most Disney items you give them, but there are a couple of restrictions. For one, you cannot be wearing the item you'd like the character to sign. Take off that hat and keep your special t-shirt in your park day bag. Two, they cannot sign anything that is adult-themed (i.e. anything with alcohol or smoking logos and icons). And they cannot sign any Disney park tickets, currency, checks, or flags. Autograph books, purchased or homemade, are your best, easiest option. #4 - Put your beer down before posing for photos with characters If you choose to sip on a adult beverage while in the theme parks that sell them, do not try to sneak it into any of your character meet and greet photos. The characters, their attendants, or Photopass photographers will ask you to put it down on the ground so it is out of the frame. If any of your family members are sitting out of a character meet and greet, have them hold it for you. #5 - Make sure little guests are prepared for what's about to happen Some young guests aren't exactly sure of what to do when they come nose to nose with Mickey Mouse, so be sure to talk with them while waiting in line and get them ready for their meet and greet. If they are uneasy about getting close to the character, but you really want that magical photo, carry them on your side and position yourself so you're always between them and the character. Engage in the interaction with them to know that the characters are nice and they're safe to get close to. #6 - No, the characters cannot and will not hold your baby! You wouldn't imagine how many times guests ask if a character can hold their baby or toddler. It's not going to happen, ever, so don't ask. Characters are certainly able to get down to the level of small guests, offer a shoulder to lean on or lap to sit in, but they cannot pick up and hold children of any size. This is for the safety of both the guest and character. #7 - Dress the part for your character interaction If you're planning on going to a themed character meal, character dance party, of visiting a certain character meet and greet, dress for the occasion! Characters love to see you dressed up like them or to fit the experience. If you're taking a little princess to dine at Cinderella's Royal Table, make sure she wears her shiniest tiara and prettiest dress. If you're planning on going to the Move it! Shake it! Celebrate it! Street Party to dance with Minnie Mouse, be sure to wear your favorite pair of ears so she can find you. This often serves as a great conversation starter with characters, and makes for great photos. #8 - Utilize FastPass+ for more popular character experiences, if it's offered Disney characters are popular, so make sure to have a plan if you're hoping to meet a lot of them during your Walt Disney World vacation. Some of the newer meet and greet locations are treated like attractions and even offer FastPass+, which allows you to pick a time for your meet and greet and load your FastPass right onto your Magic Band. Two of the most popular girls at WDW right now are Anna and Elsa from Frozen, and they're meeting guests at the new Princess Fairytale Hall in the Magic Kingdom. If you want to meet them, be sure to reserve your FastPass before you go! You can also get a FastPass to meet Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy at EPCOT Character Spot in Future World. among others. Check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/#/character-experiences/ to see where else FastPass+ is offered to meet your favorite Disney friends. #9 - Don't wait until the last minute to get your parade/show viewing spot Even if you don't want to stand in line to meet any Disney characters, the various parades and stage shows allow you to get up close and see them in action. But don't wait until right before show time to get your viewing spot. Be sure to plan ahead and know when you'd like to watch a parade or show so you can claim your spot within ample time. For all Magic Kingdom parades and shows (where you can see the most characters), I suggest getting your spot within 30 minutes, depending on how many people are visiting the park that day and how many performances there are. Also be sure to have your cameras ready. You never know who you might see! Check out https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/#/Parades,stage-shows/ for a full list of these offerings, including which ones offer preferred FastPass+ seating. #10 - Don't be shy and have fun! Make sure to bring your biggest smile and energy when meeting the characters. They're just as excited to meet you as you are to meet them! Talk with them, tell them how your day is going, and give them hugs and high fives. Treat them with respect and be gentle and courteous, or else their attendants will have to escort you from the meet and greet area. If you plan on taking time to meet any characters during your Walt Disney World vacation, keep these tips in mind, and you're sure to make magical memories to bring back home. Be prepared before you head to the parks and check out which characters are meeting where and when, and don't forget to pick up a park map and times guide to help you find meet and greet locations. Visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/#/character-experiences/ for more information. Until the next post, see ya real soon! When night falls on Walt Disney World, there's even more magic to behold! From spectacular shows to unique ride experiences to fabulous fireworks, there's plenty more to do when the sun goes down. Here is a list of my top 10 favorite nighttime fun picks to see, do, and experience at WDW (in no particular order):
#1 - Wishes fireworks spectacular A staple of any WDW vacation, the sky over Cinderella Castle comes alive each night in the Magic Kingdom with amazing fireworks and classic Disney music during Wishes. Narrated by Jiminy Cricket himself, Wishes celebrates the wishes and dreams we all have, and why it's important to always believe in them with all your heart. Plus, Tinkerbell takes flight high above the Magic Kingdom to kick things off, spreading extra pixie dust over the park. Definitely a must-do for guests of all ages and families of all sizes! Be sure to secure your viewing spot within plenty of time before the show is set to begin, as the prime areas in front of the castle and on Main St. USA fill up quickly! #2 - Disney's Main Street Electrical Parade Originally from Disneyland in Anaheim, California, Disney's Main Street Electrical Parade now marches through the Magic Kingdom each night amongst thousands of twinkling lights synchronized to some of Disney's most iconic music. Featuring the famous Disney characters including Alice, Pinocchio, and Cinderella, among others, this parade will get your hands clapping and toes tapping along to the music, and is sure to leave a smile on your face. This is one of my favorite parts of the day at the Magic Kingdom, and one parade I will never get tired of seeing! Prime parade viewing locations are on Main St. USA and within the castle hub, so be sure to get your spot well before step-off. You can also snag a great spot along the route in Frontierland, which usually draws a smaller crowd. #3 - Celebrate the Magic castle projection show This one-of-a-kind show is truly one you have to see to believe. Cinderella Castle literally comes to life right before your eyes as it changes color, shape, and texture, in a 10-minute experience celebrating the magic of Disney animation, song, and story. Featuring scenes and songs from some of the classics like Dumbo and The Lion King, as well as newer stories like Wreck It Ralph and Frozen, this show will really make you believe in magic. Plus, some segments in the show change throughout the year based on the seasons, holidays, and events, so there's something new to see each time you watch! Celebrate the Magic normally takes place between the Electrical Parade and Wishes, so I recommend picking a spot for the parade that will also give you a good vantage point for both the projection show and fireworks. The ideal viewing spots are in the castle hub by the Partners Statue or on Main St. USA. You will not be able to view Celebrate the Magic behind Cinderella Castle. #4 - Fantasmic! at Disney's Hollywood Studios Easily my favorite stage show on WDW property, Fantasmic! takes place in the outdoor Hollywood Hills amphitheater inside Disney's Hollywood Studios on most nights. The show takes you on a journey through Mickey's powerful imagination, featuring giant water fans, pyrotechnic effects, fireworks, floats, and a giant dragon. You'll be able to see your favorite characters and hear their iconic songs, including those from Beauty & The Beast, Pocahontas, Fantasia, and more. Be sure to get your seats early for this one, especially if you take in the early show on double-show nights. Also be aware that since this is an outdoor production with many performers and technical effects, inclement weather can cause delays or cancellations. #5 - Electrical Water Pageant An often unnoticed or forgotten entertainment offering, the Electrical Water Pageant lights up Seven Seas Lagoon in front of the Magic Kingdom on most nights between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. It can be viewed from multiple locations around the lagoon, including from the exit to the Magic Kingdom and the WDW resort hotel bus stops. We always like to take a second and watch the floating parade go by as we leave the Magic Kingdom for the day for one last dose of nighttime magic. #6 - Illuminations: Reflections of Earth World Showcase lagoon in EPCOT comes to life during this 12-minute firework, fountain, and pyrotechnic display celebrating our earth. Featuring an original score, Illuminations reminds us all of our past, cultures of the present, and the hope for a prosperous future together. This spectacular show can be seen from many vantage points around World Showcase, and we especially like to enjoy it between the France and UK pavilions toward the back of the park, where there is a small seating/private party area that is close to one of EPCOT's two exits. Be sure to secure your spot well in advance of show time, though! #7 - Glow with the Show specialty ear hats Want to become a part of the nighttime entertainment? Well be sure to pick up a pair of the innovative Glow with the Show Mickey ears! These special ears sync up with the music and colors of various nighttime shows and spectaculars, including Wishes and Fantasmic! to put you right in the middle of the show. Ears can be purchased all around Walt Disney World for only $25 (see link above for participating shops), and serve as a great souvenir to bring back home in memory of your vacation. Plus, you can bring them back to WDW again and again! Now for some attractions that become a little more magical at night... #8 - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at the Magic Kingdom Get a whole new perspective on "the wildest ride in the wilderness" when you board the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at night! Not only will you experience a shorter wait time while Wishes is going on, but you'll actually get to see the fireworks while riding! Plus, it's a great time to catch some of those intricate Disney details under the nighttime lighting. #9 - Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom Already one of Disney's most intricate and ornate attractions ever developed, you get an entirely different experience riding Expedition Everest at night. While Disney's Animal Kingdom park typically closes earlier than the other theme parks, you can usually get an hour or so of darker time depending on when you choose to visit WDW. When you reach the top peak, you can see for miles, and might even be able to see some of the other theme park icons like EPCOT's Spaceship Earth. #10 - The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney's Hollywood Studios This is a nighttime must-do! Riding the Tower of Terror at night really puts you in the attraction's story during the fateful night back in 1939 when five people mysteriously disappeared from an elevator inside the Hollywood Tower Hotel during a storm. You also get a unique view of Disney's Hollywood Studios as the elevator doors open during your free fall. Plus, wait times are shorter during Fantasmic! showings. There are countless other things to see and do when night falls on Walt Disney World, so don't be afraid to stay up a little late and enjoy the fun. You are on vacation, remember? Be sure to visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/ for more information on these entertainment offerings and attractions, including seasonal nighttime offerings. Check back for more posts on Holidays at Walt Disney World and those experiences. Until the next post, see ya real soon! |
About MeA twenty-something alumni of the Disney College Program looking to help others plan the Disney vacations of their dreams! Living that Disneyland AP dream in SoCal. Archives
February 2018
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