Category: Holidays

  • VIDEO: First Look at New Halloween Party Fireworks Show Hosted by Jack Skellington

    VIDEO: First Look at New Halloween Party Fireworks Show Hosted by Jack Skellington

    What’s this? What’s this? You won’t believe your eyes! When Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties return on August 16, guests will be “treated” to the brand-new “Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular” fireworks show.

    The new show will be hosted by Jack Skellington from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and he’ll have a “not-so-scary” story to tell about how anything can happen on Halloween night.

    His ghost dog, Zero, flies off carrying everyone along on a trick-or-treating adventure, where four friends – Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy – find themselves drawn into a mysterious haunted house. Take a look at the video below for a sneak peek.

    Their journey takes them from one room of the house to another, encountering dancing skeletons, waltzing ghosts and a whole series of troublemaking Disney villains.

    The show will include new Halloween projections and lasers that will light up Cinderella’s Castle, plus lighting and dazzling fireworks that will fill the sky above Magic Kingdom Park.

  • Jack Skellington To Host New Halloween Party Fireworks Show at Magic Kingdom

    Jack Skellington To Host New Halloween Party Fireworks Show at Magic Kingdom

    As we previously reported, a brand-new fireworks spectacular is coming to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom this year and now Disney has announced that it will be hosted by none other than Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

    Jack serves as the host of “Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular,” the all-new nighttime extravaganza which features state-of-the-art projection effects, lasers, lighting and dazzling fireworks filling the sky above Magic Kingdom Park.

    Jack has come to tell a not-so-scary story about how anything can happen on Halloween night. Jack’s ghost dog, Zero, then flies off carrying everyone along on a trick-or-treating adventure, where four friends – Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy – find themselves drawn into a mysterious haunted house.

    Their journey takes them from one room of the house to another, encountering dancing skeletons, waltzing ghosts and a whole series of troublemaking Disney villains. “Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular” promises to be the perfect Halloween treat!

    If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • Watch 4th of July Fireworks From Magic Kingdom Park LIVE Streamed Right Here

    Watch 4th of July Fireworks From Magic Kingdom Park LIVE Streamed Right Here

    If you’re looking for the best fireworks display to watch this Independence Day, then look no further, because no one does fireworks better than Disney! Tonight Magic Kingdom Park will offer a special July 4 live stream of their dazzling fireworks display and you can watch it right here.

    The Independence Day display is called “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” and will offer booming fireworks orchestrated to patriotic melodies at Magic Kingdom Park.

    The partiotic fireworks spectacular will begin at 9:10 p.m. ET, live from Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort and you can watch it below:

    Disney Parks will be celebrating the fun of summer before and after the show. You can take a look at the complete guide to celebrating the 4th of July at Disney parks here.

    In the meantime, tell us in the comments where in the world you’re watching from and who you’re watching with!

  • Complete Guide to Celebrating the Fourth of July at Disney Parks

    Complete Guide to Celebrating the Fourth of July at Disney Parks

    The Fourth of July is here and Disney Parks is celebrating our nation’s birthday with entertainment, scrumptious treats and patriotic pageantry at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

    Fireworks are synonymous with the Fourth of July and Disney Parks, and on Independence Day 2019, Disney theme parks will offer guests a bevy of booming delights painting the sky Red, White and Blue, but also so much more.

    Take a look below at what’s going on today at Disney Parks, including LIVE coverage from Magic Kingdom Park:

    Walt Disney World

    Magic Kingdom Park – “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will offer booming fireworks orchestrated to patriotic melodies at Magic Kingdom Park on both July 3 and July 4 at 9:15 p.m. Fans who are not able to join in the Independence Day celebration at the park can view a special July 4 live stream of the dazzling fireworks display right here on the Disney Parks Blog. Here’s more entertainment planned at Magic Kingdom Park: 

    • A fuzzy cast of Muppets – Miss Piggy, Kermit, Fozzie Bear and friends will reenact famous moments in American history in a whimsical way during “The Muppets Present … Great Moments in History.” The live show is performed several times daily near the Hall of Presidents in Liberty Square.
    • Guests can dance the night away with DJs spinning tunes at a Hoedown Throwdown in Frontierland and an out-of-this-world Galactic Gathering in Tomorrowland. 

    Epcot –   “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” will end its nearly 20-year run on September 30, 2019. So this will be the last chance to experience the patriotic Fourth of July grand finale of this beloved nighttime spectacular. “The Heartbeat of Freedom” fireworks extravaganza will begin immediately following the 9 p.m. “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” display.  Here’s more entertainment planned at Epcot: 

    • The Voices of Liberty will perform great American tunes during a Fourth of July concert on the America Gardens Theatre stage at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. on July 4. The group also will perform in the rotunda inside The American Adventure pavilion at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
    • Guests can meet favorite Disney characters donning their “Spirit of 76” patriotic attire at The American Adventure throughout the day on July 4.
    • And guests can indulge in themed eats and sips honoring Independence Day throughout the park – everything from patriotic cupcakes and special dining packages to red, white, and blue sangria and a Boom Berry Lemonade.

    Also, be on the lookout for special Fourth of July decor at Disney Springs and specialty Food and Beverage items at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and at select Walt Disney World Resorts. 

    Disneyland Resort  

    For America’s Birthday at Disneyland park on July 4only, “Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will animate the night with star-spangled spirit to the sounds of patriotic songs.

    From Disneyland Railroad, to Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, to Frontierland and Mark Twain Riverboat, to the flag retreat ceremony saluting visiting members of the armed forces, America is celebrated daily throughout Disneyland. 

    But wait… There’s more! Here’s what else guests will find throughout the resort:

    At Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, on July 4 only, from 3-10 p.m., guests will discover a Fourth of July family BBQ at the rooftop The Sand Bar, with live music starting at 6 p.m., followed by fireworks from Disneyland park at 9:30 p.m. A special a la carte menu will feature short rib brisket burgers, all-beef hot dogs, street corn on the cob and specialty drinks. Complimentary family activities and face painting are also in store. Subject to availability. This offering is open to the public and does not require a hotel reservation.

    At Disneyland Hotel, on July 4 only, from 12-4 p.m., hotel guests of all ages can get in the patriotic spirit with family activities, live music, complimentary face painting, caricatures and tasty delights on the hotel’s Magic Kingdom Lawn. Subject to availability.

  • Enjoy a Magical Day with Dad this Father’s Day at Walt Disney World Resort

    Enjoy a Magical Day with Dad this Father’s Day at Walt Disney World Resort

    Whether Dad’s ideal day is spent enjoying sports and the great outdoors, experiencing exciting attractions or sampling delicious cuisine, there is something for every guy’s fancy at Walt Disney World Resort this Father’s Day.

    Below are just a few of the options for making Dad’s day the best one yet:

    Dining with Dad

    Walt Disney World is renowned for its wide variety of dining experiences, which make for an exceptional treat for Dad on his day. Select locations across the Disney theme parks and resort hotels will showcase special Father’s Day sips and bites:

    • At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Flame Tree Barbecue will offer a limited-time Dad’s Platter with brisket, pulled pork, chicken and ribs. Restaurantosaurus will offer a “burger and brew” combo featuring a jalapeño popper burger. And a Father’s Day cupcake will be available at select locations around the theme park.
    • A prix fixe menu will be offered at Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot, featuring a grilled 10-ounce top sirloin steak, a grilled shrimp skewer and loaded mashed potatoes, as well as choice of appetizer and dessert.
    • Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will offer a Father’s Day prix fixe menu that includes oak-grilled, bone-in ribeye and fire-roasted bone marrow as well as an optional wine pairing.
    • Special offerings will also be available at Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk Entertainment District and Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

    Theme Park Thrills

    If Dad loves thrills, there is plenty for him to enjoy at all four Walt Disney World theme parks.

    At Epcot, car enthusiasts will rejoice on Test Track, where Dad can design a virtual concept vehicle and then take it for a high-octane spin. Afterward, he can pose for pictures with a dream car and more.

    Disney’s Animal Kingdom is full of wild experiences for Dad to explore. Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain features a high-speed race through icy Himalayan peaks that puts him face to face with the massive Yeti. If flying is more his style, Dad can climb aboard a banshee for an exhilarating experience in Avatar Flight of Passage located in Pandora – The World of Avatar.

    Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Dad can have an explosively good time at Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!, travel into another dimension on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or feel like a rock star aboard Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.

    Does Dad enjoy a more classic vibe? Magic Kingdom Park is the place to be, then, featuring beloved attractions such as Space Mountain, a roller-coaster ride in the dark that journeys to the furthest reaches of outer space, or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad … the “wildest ride in the wilderness!”

    Sports and Outdoor Adventures

    Walt Disney World offers a plethora of experiences beyond its theme parks, with plenty of options if Dad is a sport or outdoor enthusiast.

    He can book a tee time at any of four championship golf courses, which feature superlative design, impeccable service, world-class amenities and overall playability.

    Does Dad love to fish? He can choose from guided fishing excursions aboard a 21-foot pontoon boat that can accommodate up to five guests, or a tournament-style fishing boat for one or two people.

    If speedy fun is more his thing, Dad can hop into a personal watercraft and zip out onto Walt Disney World waterways, available for rent at select resort marinas. Kayaks and canoes are also available at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.

    Relaxation at Disney Resort Hotels

    Dad can keep this Father’s Day fun and relaxing by staying at a Disney resort hotel, choosing the story and surroundings that best fit his personality – from the spirit of a South Pacific oasis to the majesty of an African savanna and so many more. Villa accommodations at several Disney resort hotels offer plenty of space the family can enjoy together while celebrating Dad’s special day. One-, two- and three-bedroom options and full kitchens are tailor-made for good times with family and friends.

    If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • New ‘Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party’ Coming to Disneyland Resort This Fall

    New ‘Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party’ Coming to Disneyland Resort This Fall

    Trick or treat! Disneyland Resort is bringing in a new event this Halloween season called “Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party” to Disney California Adventure park and guests of all ages are sure to have a ghoulishly good time.

    This separately-ticketed party is packed with exclusive new entertainment and experiences, including the new “World of Color” spectacular – “Villainous!”

    Also, Tweens will be treated to multiple new experiences – including the new interactive DescenDANCE Party and more! Take a look below to see what’s in store:

    • DescenDANCE Party – A new pulsing party in the Backlot area of Hollywood Land is inspired by the popular “Descendants” franchise from Disney Channel. As the DescenDANCE Party begins, a spell is cast, summoning the greatest dance crew from the Isle of the Lost to throw down and lead everyone in moves that are set to the biggest hit songs from all three “Descendants” movies.  The original “Villain Kids” might even crash the party through magic mirrors. Once the DescenDANCE crew returns to their realm, the Backlot DJ continues to spin tunes that will make any “Villain Kid” proud, inviting everyone to step onto the dance floor into the night.
    • “Villainous!” – The new “World of Color” show weaves a Halloween tale about a young girl named Shelley Marie. This twisted tale carries Shelley on an unforgettable journey, exploring the villainous side of Disney characters through fountains, lights, lasers, projections and special effects. “Villainous!” shows that, deep down, there’s a little villain in all of us.
    • Character encounters – Tweens will love meeting beloved Disney characters – and villains, too. You may be surprised at who you discover at this Halloween party, like Dr Facilier, Jafar and Maleficent!
    • Immersive Treat Trails – Trick-or-treating is not just for little kids! There is so much to see at the new, wonderfully wicked treat trails throughout the park. Iconic characters such as Mad Hatter from Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland,” or even Oogie Boogie himself will surprise and delight. Additional treat trails will feature oversized cauldrons full of treats for all guests to enjoy.
    • “Frightfully Fun Parade” – The favorite Halloween parade is coming to Disney California Adventure park for the first time! The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow starts the procession, followed by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse who lead the cavalcade of characters and many mischievous Disney villains who are ready to stir up some trouble along the parade route.

    This spook-tacular Halloween party is only offered on 20 select nights this fall. 

  • Earth Day at Disney World Celebrated with New Solar Facility Capable of Powering Two Theme Parks

    Earth Day at Disney World Celebrated with New Solar Facility Capable of Powering Two Theme Parks

    Walt Disney World Resort is celebrating Earth Day with the unveiling of a massive new 270-acre, 50-megawatt solar facility and sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the massive solar facility that’s helping to power the magic by harnessing power from the sun.

    Built in collaboration with the Reedy Creek Improvement District and solar developer Origis Energy USA, this facility is expected to generate enough renewable clean energy to operate two of Disney’s four theme parks in Central Florida annually, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50,000 tons per year. That’s equivalent to removing about 10,000 automobiles from the roads annually.

    For an inside look, take a peak at the video below:

    Located adjacent to State Road 429, the facility is expected to generate enough renewable clean energy to operate two of Disney’s four theme parks in Central Florida annually. It will also significantly reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by tens of thousands of tons per year, joining the numerous efforts The Walt Disney Company has launched to deliver its 2020 goal of reducing emissions by 50% compared to 2012.

    “At Disney, every day is Earth Day, and we hope our guests and cast members will be as inspired and amazed as we are at what this new solar facility means for our community and planet,” said Angie Renner, Environmental Integration Director, Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products. “This is an ambitious step forward for our renewable energy efforts.”

    The solar facility is also providing an important habitat for native wildlife in Central Florida. A team of environmental and horticulture experts from Disney collaborated to help make more than two-thirds of the facility pollinator friendly, with the goal of creating a nurturing and welcoming habitat for butterflies, bees and other insects, including endangered and at-risk species. This team is also managing and monitoring an experimental test garden at the facility to conduct research and further enhance the habitat. The effort to safeguard endangered pollinators aligns with the Disney Conservation Fund’s ongoing focus on saving wildlife, including butterflies.

    The solar facility represents the largest endeavor in solar energy to date for Disney’s global theme park operations. In 2016, Walt Disney World Resort unveiled a 22-acre, 5-megawatt solar facility shaped like Mickey Mouse, as part of a collaboration with the Reedy Creek Improvement District and Duke Energy. Both facilities are contributing to Disney’s long-term sustainability goals, which include reaching zero net greenhouse gas emissions, reaching zero waste, reducing single-use plastics and conserving water resources.

    These conservation efforts build on the longtime commitment to environmental stewardship by The Walt Disney Company, a tradition that began with Walt Disney himself, and has grown through the creativity and passion of its cast members.

    KEY FACTS:

    • The facility features over half a million solar panels, spans 270 acres and is capable of reaching 50 megawatts of power.
    • During peak sun hours, up to 25% of Walt Disney World’s power needs will be met through solar energy.
    • The facility will generate enough renewable clean energy to power two of Walt Disney World’s four theme parks annually.
    • This is the largestsolar facility in Orange County at 50 megawatts.
    • This solar facility will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50,000 tons per year, the equivalent of removing about 10,000 cars from the roads annually.
    • Disney environmental and horticulture experts helped make more than two-thirds of the facility pollinator friendly with plant species that attract insects like butterflies and bees.
    • This solar facility provides power to Walt Disney World Resort, the largest single-site employer in the country.
  • Eggstravaganz Scavenger Hunt Returns to  Disneyland Resort April 5-21, 2019

    Eggstravaganz Scavenger Hunt Returns to Disneyland Resort April 5-21, 2019

    Spring has sprung, Disney fans! Next month isn’t just bringing April showers, but the return of the popular Eggstravaganza scavenger hunt at the Disneyland Resort.

    This fun, egg-themed scavenger hunt will take place April 5-21, 2019 across Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and the Downtown Disney District.

    Pick up your map and stickers for $6.99 (plus tax) at select merchandise locations, then let the hunt begin! Search for special hidden “eggs” themed to Disney and Pixar characters. Record your discoveries by placing the corresponding sticker on the themed Egg-stravaganza map to represent that location.

    Whether you choose to hunt for eggs or not, return your map to a redemption location for a surprise. Redemption locations include the following merchandise shops: Disney Showcase in Disneyland park, Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park and World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney District.

  • Celebrate Mardi Gras and Carnevale at Disney Springs

    Celebrate Mardi Gras and Carnevale at Disney Springs

    As the end of February approaches and March begins, you know it’s Mardi Gras time! While famously celebrated on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Disney Springs is offering up its own spin on this favorite holiday complete with food and entertainment that will have you “jazzed” to celebrate!

    First things first, you have to dress the part, right? No celebration is complete without a pair of ears and these Mardi Gras-inspired Minnie Mouse ears make for the perfect party accessory! These beauties feature all the fun colors and patterns of Mardi Gras (and remind me of a certain Disney princess from New Orleans!) Look for these in the newly renovated World of Disney store at Disney Springs Marketplace.

    Mardi Gras and Carnevale at Disney Springs

    For all you foodies out there, there’s no shortage of specialty and limited-time eats on the menu at some of our favorite restaurants. Look no further than House of Blues Restaurant & Bar for classic New Orleans favorites such as Steak Po’Boy (made special for this event!), Jambalaya, Gumbo and Bourbon Bread Pudding. (If you can only pick just one, I always suggest the Bourbon Bread Pudding. It’s in my top 5 list of best desserts you can find at Disney Springs!) The best part? You can grab all of these dishes at the Smokehouse grab and go window now through March 5. In addition to delicious bites, there will be live music, drink specials and prizes March 1-5 in the House of Blues Courtyard. With no cover or reservations required, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

    Mardi Gras and Carnevale at Disney Springs

    Over in The Landing, Carnevale is back at Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante! Not familiar with Carnevale? The annual festival began in Venice, Italy and commemorates the joyous gathering of family and friends to eat, drink, dance and celebrate life together. Make a reservation by March 5 and you’ll get a front-row seat to live entertainment including singers, stilt walkers, jugglers, mimes, face painters, folk dancers and more all while indulging in signature Italian cuisine. During this limited-time engagement, you can enjoy the prix fixe “Feast of Carnevale” selections or order a la carte from the regular menu.

    Mardi Gras and Carnevale at Disney Springs

    So grab your masks and get on out there and celebrate! If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • 2019 Valentine’s Month Foodie Guide for Disneyland

    2019 Valentine’s Month Foodie Guide for Disneyland

    Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but at Disneyland you can celebrate love all month long. There are plenty of sweet ways to show you care during Valentine’s Month with specialty treats at Disneyland!

    Today through Feb. 18, you can celebrate Mickey and Minnie’s iconic romance at Disneyland park. The heart-filled celebration features fun photo-ops in Town Square, festive décor along Main Street, U.S.A., and all of the tasty bites listed below.

    Here is a look at the official Foodie Guide for February below so you’ll know exactly where to find everything – happy snacking!

    Disneyland Cotton Candy Castle

    Outdoor Vending Carts

    • Cherry Cotton Candy

    Main Street Gourmet Coffee Cart

    • Minnie Donut topped with pink icing, a strawberry, and a chocolate bow

    Churros Near Sleeping Beauty Castle and Churros near Town Square

    • Strawberry Churro with chocolate dipping sauce
    Disneyland Donut

    Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor

    • Sweetheart Donut Sundae – Warm glazed donut with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce topping, whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry

    Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe

    • Heart-shaped Mousse Dessert with raspberry mousse and vanilla bean crème brûlée center

    Market House

    • Heart-shaped Linzer Cookie

    Plaza Inn

    • Strawberry Bundt Cake

    Red Rose Taverne

    • Cherry Mousse Dessert – Dark chocolate ganache and chocolate crunch with red velvet spray, gold dust, and mini heart sprinkles
    Disneyland food

    Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante

    • Molcajete Platter – Chorizo sausage, carne asada, shrimp, cebollitas, serrano, nopales, and Oaxaca cheese with salsa roja and warm tortillas
    • Chocolate Tamale with espresso whipped cream and cherry compote

    Churros near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

    • Chocolate-Cinnamon Sugar-dusted Churro with spicy cocoa dipping sauce
    Disneyland food

    Blue Bayou Restaurant

    • Strawberry Beet Salad
    • Pillow Cake Dessert – Pabana mousse with salted caramel pot de crème center (share it with a friend or a loved one!)

    Churros near Haunted Mansion and Churros near Splash Mountain

    • Burning Love Valentine’s Churro – Sweet and spicy red sugar churro with “double-the-love” cream cheese frosting

    Mint Julep Bar

    • Chocolate-covered Strawberry Beignets

    Royal Street Veranda

    • Double Chocolate Fritters – Double chocolate chunk fritters tossed in powdered sugar

    Hungry Bear Restaurant

    • Honey-to-Love Funnel Cake – Honey and cream funnel cake with cinnamon sprinkles
    Disneyland food

    River Belle Terrace

    • Southern Pork Belly Sliders – Sticky sweet and fiery-glazed pork belly sliders on toasted brioche buns with fresh sliced jalapeños with house-made pickle chips
    • Chocolate Lava Cake with passion fruit sorbet and passion fruit sauce
    Disneyland food ice cream

    The Golden Horseshoe

    • Minnie-inspired Sundae – Espresso chip gelato, cherry compote, cream-filled cookies, and chocolate-dusted artisan churro topped with whipped cream and a chocolate bow

    Stage Door Café

    • Strawberry Cheesecake “Funnel of Love” – Funnel cake covered with cheesecake filling, strawberry compote, whipped cream, and a chocolate bow
    Disneyland food

    Bengal Barbecue

    • Piranha Lemonade Slushy – Mango and pineapple lemonade with lychee and pomegranate popping pearls
    • Roasted Vegetable Spring Roll – Roasted Portobello mushrooms and red peppers, pickled cucumbers, baba ghanoush spread, zucchini noodles, fresh mint, fresh basil, and toasted sesame seeds served with harissa sauce

    Churros Near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

    • Popping Sugar Churro