Disney News

Category: Walt Disney World

  • Father’s Search for Son’s Lost Water Bottle Has a Fairytale Ending in Disney World

    Father’s Search for Son’s Lost Water Bottle Has a Fairytale Ending in Disney World

    Disney is always a magical experience, but sometimes when you lose something special to you, it can be tough to just bottle it up. Just before christmas Paul Miller and his son were visiting Walt Disney World and his son lost a water bottle that was very special to him.

    This is a water bottle that his son had taken to all his favorite places over the past 10 years. He lost in the queue while in line for Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios and since the bottle meant so much to him, Miller took a chance and sent out a tweet to Disney world.

    Two days later there was a hint of progress as Disney replied asking him for a description of the item.

    Water Bottle Tweet

    As it turned out Disney Magic was in the still air of the Tower of Terror and Guest Relations had recovered the water bottle. They quickly informed him that the item had been located and was on its way to a safe location.

    Water Bottle Tweet

    What they neglected to mention is that on its way, the water bottle would be getting a VIP tour of the Tower of Terror by none other than, Dillion one of the Tower’s most well-known bellhops in the Hotel.

    The bottle was transported outside where it got to enjoy a special view.

    The Bottle was then escorted inside where is was offered some tea while it waited.

    Water Bottle Tower of Terror Dillon

    Somewhere along the tour Dillion even escorted the bottle on to the ride since it didn’t get the full experience before.

    Water Bottle Tower of Terror Dillon

    Finally the beloved water bottle made its way to Guest Relations where it could wait to be picked up.

    Shortly after Disney sent a tweet informing Miller of that “he did enjoy his stay at the Hollywood Tower Hotel”, and they even invited him back.

    Afterwards Miller took the whole thing in good spirit and laughed about how it even got to ride the attraction.

    Water Bottle Tweet

    When he finally got the water bottle back, he posted a reunion photo with the caption, “pure happy”.

    water bottle Reunited

    So all in all, it truly did have a happy ending. With a little bit of Disney Magic, the missing item ends up right back where it belongs.

    We’re glad this story turned out well for Miller and his son, but we have to take a moment to recognize these amazing cast members. Guest Relations at Walt Disney World is like no other in the world and they can always turn a negative situation into a positive one. This lighthearted search, rescue and recovery is certainly going to give this family a magical memory that will last a lifetime.

  • 2018 Florida Resident Resort Offer With Rooms as Low as $79 Per Night

    2018 Florida Resident Resort Offer With Rooms as Low as $79 Per Night

    Florida residents can take advantage of rates starting as low as $79* (per night plus tax) in a standard room at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. There is a long list of other resorts available for the offer and the rates are low as we have seen in a while. Rates vary depending on the resort.

    The offer is good for stays most Monday through Wednesday nights Jan. 1 – Feb. 7, 2018. Additional discount rates and Resorts may be available for stays most nights Jan. 1-Apr. 14, 2018. Book through Apr. 14, 2018.

    Booking Window: Nov. 28, 2017-April 14, 2018
    Travel Window: Most nights Jan. 1-April 14, 2018

    Resort Hotels Included in This Offer:

    • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
    • Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
    • The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    • Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
    • Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
    • Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
    • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
    • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
    • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
    • Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites Only
    • Disney’s Beach Club Resort
    • Disney’s Beach Club Villas
    • Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
    • Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
    • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Disney’s Contemporary Resort
    • Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
    • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
    • Disney’s Old Key West Resort
    • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
    • Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – Studios Only
    • Disney’s Pop Century Resort
    • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
    • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
    • Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
    • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
    • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

    Eligibility Restrictions:
    To book this offer, you must be a Florida Resident. Proof of Florida residency required at Resort hotel check-in.

    Book Today as offer is limited based on availability.
    If you need help booking this special offer, contact Travel Time with Vikki for a free quote. I will always find you the lowest rates and my services won’t cost you a thing. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • BREAKING: Circle of Life Attraction To Close Permanently at Epcot

    BREAKING: Circle of Life Attraction To Close Permanently at Epcot

    The Circle of Life, at the Land Pavilion in Epcot’s Future World, is closing it doors permanently. This circle is complete for this long running attraction which has been educating guests about the environment for more than two decades.

    On Thursday, it was announced that the attraction, which opened on January 21, 1995 will make its last run on February 3, 2018.

    circle-of-life

    Shortly after the closure, the space will be used to host the student workshops and other events which are currently housed in the trailer between Germany and Italy. The trailer’s closure could possibly make way for the new rumored Brazil Pavillion in World Showcase.

    The Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable is a 20-minute widescreen film about conservation, with color commentary from the stars of Walt Disney’s The Lion King. Guests laugh and learn as Simba teaches Timon and Pumbaa an important lesson about the environment.

    The Circle of Life features a magical mix of animation and live action. Presented in stunning 70mm footage shot in over 30 countries, this panoramic film provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce youngsters to the concept of eco kindness.

    If you haven’t had a chance to see it in person check out the video below.

  • Florida Residents Discover Disney Tickets Released For 2018

    Florida Residents Discover Disney Tickets Released For 2018

    Exciting news for Florida Residents with this special offer from Walt Disney World.  The Discover Disney Tickets have returned for 2018 and are now available for purchase.

    For a limited time guest can enjoy 3 days at a Walt Disney World theme park for $159 per person with a Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket or you can add a 4th day for just $20 more per person.

    If you want to visit more than one Disney World park per day you can add the park-hopper option for an extra $27.50 on the three-day plan and for $34.50 with the four-day ticket.

    The tickets can be purchased between now and June 5 and are only valid from January 4 to June 24, 2018 at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

    For Discover Disney tickets, all adults must show proof of Florida residency at park entrances.

    The regular price for a three-day Florida resident ticket is $185, and the regular four-day Florida resident offer goes for $204 so this is a great deal you can’t pass up.

    If you need help booking this special offer, contact Travel Time with Vikki for a free quote. I will always find you the lowest rates and my services won’t cost you a thing. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

     

  • Dole Whips Now Available at Pop Century

    Dole Whips Now Available at Pop Century

    Disney‘s Pop Century Resort has a tasty new treat that will have you whipping and nae nae-ing. If it doesn’t get you dancing, it will definitely delight the taste buds, because Pop Century is now offering Dole Whips on their menu at the Everything Pop Food Court.

    No trip is complete without experiencing the legendary classic Disney treat, and now there is one more place you can whip one up. And if you don’t feel like waiting in the long lines at the park for one, it will be a great way to end the night at the resort.

    The much sought-after soft-serve delight known as Dole Whip is a popular frozen treat blended in pineapple, vanilla or swirled flavors. You can get the Dole Whip by itself (all pineapple or pineapple/vanilla swirl), or with Dole pineapple juice. The latter combination is called a Dole Whip float.

    If you haven’t stayed at Pop Century in a bit now you have a great new reason to head back so you can get your whip on.

  • Free Dining with New Summer Vacation Package Offer at Disney World

    Free Dining with New Summer Vacation Package Offer at Disney World

    We just started 2018 and Disney World already has a great new summer offer.  It’s a great time to get a jump-start on planning your next magical escape – especially when you can enjoy a little extra flavor with it. This exciting new package offers free quick-service dining!

    You and your family can delight in one FREE meal per person (ages 3 and up), per night at a select Walt Disney World Resort quick-service dining location when you buy a non-discounted 5-night/6-day room and theme park ticket package at a select Disney Value Resort hotel. Offer valid for arrivals most nights May 29-Aug. 25, 2018 when you book through Feb.11, 2018.

    Booking Window: Jan. 3-Feb. 11, 2018
    Travel Window: May 29-Aug. 25, 2018

    Booking Information:

    • This offer is available to book as “Summer Meal Offer” through the “Room and Ticket Package” path in the “Quote or Book” module on DisneyTravelAgents.com, or by calling the Disney Reservation Center.
    • Minimum Length of Stay: 3 nights
    • Minimum 2-day Magic Your Way Base Ticket

    If you need help booking this special offer, contact Travel Time with Vikki for a free quote. I will always find you the lowest rates and my services won’t cost you a thing. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

  • Weather Advisory for Walt Disney World Marathon Runners

    Weather Advisory for Walt Disney World Marathon Runners

    Due to colder than normal temperatures, a runDisney weather advisory has issued to all of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend runners.

    The Central Florida area is anticipated to experience colder weather than usual during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, January 3-7. Those participating in race events should plan accordingly for their race. Here are some important tips from runDisney to consider:

    Bundle Up – Dress for the expected cold-weather conditions. Two tops and running tights are recommended. In addition, moisture-wicking socks (not cotton) and a hat are highly encouraged. Any extra layers you discard at the start of the race or along the course will be picked up and donated to charity.

    Protect Your Skin – Even though it is cold, be sure to apply sunscreen and lip balm to help protect from the sun and wind.

    Dry Off – When you are finished with your race, change out of your wet clothes as soon as you can or get to your car or bus.

    Hydrate – Even though it may be cold, don’t forget to drink water and Powerade to stay hydrated on the course. Drink room temperature water if you are cold.

    Know the Danger Signs – This week’s cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms include numbness, tingling or aching, and bluish or pale skin. If you experience these, get to the nearest medical tent on the course or ask any runDisney volunteer to notify the medical team.

    As a reminder, all medical stations will have the appropriate flag color displayed according to existing conditions. For more information, please reference the Event Safety page in the Digital Event Guide.

    runDisney posted the advisory on their twitter feed.

    Any adjustments to the race are at the discretion of the Event Management team and are for everyone’s safety. Good luck out there. Stay safe, stay warm and have a magical run!

  • Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration Complete Guide

    Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration Complete Guide

    If you love to run then what better place is there to do it than the most magical place on Earth? The 25th Annual Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration kicks off tomorrow morning.

    It’s a huge weekend celebration with amazing sights, spectacular surprises and fantastic runs for the whole family including the 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, 5K, 5th Anniversary Dopey Challenge, 10K, runDisney Kids Races and Disney Castaway Cay Challenge. Plus, there’ll be plenty of Disney entertainment, favorite Disney characters, all-new anniversary commemorative medals and T-shirts, and much more! Share the magic and the memories during the 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.

    25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon presented by Cigna

    Sunday, January 7, 2018
    5:30 a.m.
    Start/Finish: Epcot

    Celebrate 25 years of running magic with Mickey at the most magical race on Earth! It’s a spectacular four-park celebration with your host Mickey Mouse during the 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon celebration. Every step is magic on this 26.2-mile run through all four Walt Disney World theme parks and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex with plenty of surprises, entertainment and Disney magic along the way. Experience the most magical course on Earth, including runs through the Magic Kingdom Park, home of favorite Disney characters, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park where wild adventures happen, Disney’s Hollywood Studios with all its show biz magic, and Epcot with its amazing Future World and World Showcase. Plus, you’ll receive a special, one-of-a-kind 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon commemorative finisher medal and T-shirt to remember the magic!

    Walt Disney World Marathon Highlights:

    • 26.2-mile course through all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
    • Disney Characters and 25th Anniversary entertainment on course
    • Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World Resort guests
    • Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters

    Walt Disney World Marathon Participants Receive:

    • NEW! 25th Anniversary Commemorative Mickey Mouse Finisher Medal
    • NEW! 25th Anniversary Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut
    • Official Digital Event Guide
    • Virtual Goody Bag
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*
    • On-course and post-race refreshments
    • ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family
    • Runner’s World Trial Subscription

    Walt Disney World Half Marathon presented by Cigna

    Saturday, January 6, 2018
    5:30 a.m.
    Start/Finish: Epcot

    The Walt Disney World Half Marathon is chock full of excitement, adventure, and surprises on a 13.1-mile course through two of Disney’s most beloved theme parks. Your run begins in Magic Kingdom Park, home to Mickey, Minnie and the whole Disney gang and overflowing with magic, wonder and charm. Then it’s on to spectacular Epcot, home of international World Showcase and all the thrills and delights of Future World. There’ll be lots of Disney entertainment along the way plus your favorite Disney characters to cheer you on to a fabulous finish in the shadow of Spaceship Earth.

    Walt Disney World Half Marathon Highlights:

    • 13.1-mile course through Walt Disney World Theme Parks
    • Disney Characters and Entertainment on course
    • Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World Resort guests
    • Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters

    Walt Disney World Half Marathon Participants Receive:

    • Half Marathon Finisher Medal
    • Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut
    • Official Digital Event Guide
    • Virtual Goody Bag
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*
    • On-course and post-race refreshments
    • ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family
    • Runner’s World Trial Subscription

    Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge presented by Cigna

    Saturday, January 6 – Sunday, January 7, 2018

    There’s nothing Goofy about Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge! It’s 39.3 miles and two days of pure fun and Disney magic. Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge combines Saturday’s Half Marathon – over 13.1 miles through Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot – with Sunday’s Marathon, which covers 26.2 miles through all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks including Epcot, Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Complete both races within the pacing requirements and you’ll earn the coveted Goofy medal in addition to your finisher medals.

    You must register for Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge to receive the Goofy medal upon completion of both races within the pacing requirements.

    Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge Highlights:

    • Half Marathon and Marathon courses through Walt Disney World Theme Parks totaling 39.3 miles
    • Disney Characters and Entertainment on course
    • Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort guests
    • Family Reunion Area with live entertainment and characters

    Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge Participants Receive:

    • Special Goofy finisher medal along with the commemorative Half Marathon and Marathon finisher medals
    • Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut – For the Marathon, Half Marathon and Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge
    • Official Digital Event Guide
    • Virtual Goody Bag
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)
    • On-course and post-race refreshments
    • ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family
    • Runner’s World Trial Subscription

    Walt Disney World 10K presented by Cigna

    Friday, January 5, 2018
    5:30 a.m.
    Start/Finish: Epcot

    Enjoy a thrilling 6.2-mile run throughout Epcot for the Walt Disney World 10K with your hostess Minnie Mouse. The course will take you through the beautiful World Showcase and Future World as well as Disney’s spectacular Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. There’ll be plenty of Disney entertainment along the way including your favorite Disney characters to cheer you on! Take home a one-of-a-kind Walt Disney World 10K finisher medal and T-shirt! It’s a perfect run and ideal choice for runners of all levels.

    Walt Disney World 10K Highlights:
    • 10K course through Epcot
    • Disney Characters and Entertainment on course
    • Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort guests

    Walt Disney World 10K Participants Receive:

    • 10K Finisher Medal
    • Champion Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women’s or Men’s Cut
    • Official Digital Event Guide
    • Virtual Goody Bag
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)
    • On-course and post-race refreshments
    • ChronoTrack B-tag timed race with live runner tracking sign up for friends and family
    • Runner’s World Trial Subscription

    Walt Disney World 5K presented by Cigna

    Thursday, January 4, 2018
    5:30 a.m.
    Start/Finish: Epcot

    Invite the whole family and enjoy a great run the in the shadow of Disney’s spectacular Epcot Theme Park during Walt Disney World 5K. You’ll make your way through the amazing Future World and then on to international World Showcase before a thrilling finish. It’s all part of the excitement during Walt Disney World 5K that’s a perfect event for beginners, intermediates, or even racing veterans. Adults, teens, tweens – and everyone in between –is invited to join the fun!

    Walt Disney World 5K Highlights:

    • 5K course through Epcot
    • Disney Characters and Entertainment on course
    • Family Reunion Area with entertainment and characters
    • Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World Resort guests

    Walt Disney World 5K Participants Receive:

    • 5K Finisher Meda
    • 5K Unisex T-shirt
    • Official Digital Event Guide
    • Virtual Goody Bag
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)
    • On-course and post-race refreshments
    • Runner’s World Trial Subscription

    5th Anniversary Dopey Challenge presented by Cigna

    Thursday, January 4 – Sunday, January 7, 2018

    We’re celebrating five years of the ultimate endurance challenge and you’re invited to join the fun! It’s four days of race magic for a total of 48.6 miles in the 5th Anniversary Dopey Challenge! Participants will run the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World® Marathon, and if you complete all four races within the pacing requirements you will be awarded the Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge medal and the Dopey Challenge finisher medal for a total of six pieces of “bling.”

    You must register for the Dopey Challenge to receive the Goofy Challenge and Dopey Challenge medals upon completion of all four races within the pacing requirements. Registering for these four events individually will not enable you to receive the challenge medals.

    Dopey Challenge Highlights:
    • Four races through Walt Disney World Theme Parks totaling 48.6 miles
    • Disney Characters and Entertainment on course
    • Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort guests
    • Family Reunion Area with entertainment and characters

    Dopey Challenge Race Participants Receive:

    • NEW! 5TH Anniversary Dopey Challenge finisher medal along with the commemorative medals for the Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, 10K and 5K
    • NEW! 5TH Anniversary Dopey Challenge Champion® Women’s or Men’s cut Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in addition to Tech Shirts for the Marathon, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, 10K and 5K cotton Unisex T-Shirt
    • Official Digital Event Guide
    • Virtual Goody Bag
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)
    • On-course and post-race refreshments
    • ChronoTrack B-tag timed race
    • Runner’s World Trial Subscription

    runDisney Kids Races presented by GoGo squeeZ Applesauce on the Go

    Friday, January 5 – Saturday, January 6, 2018
    Kids Dashes: 10:30 a.m.
    One Mile Run: 1:00 p.m.
    Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

    Every child 13 and under who participates in the runDisney Kids Races goes home a winner with their very own finisher medallion! Children 13 and under are invited to participate in the runDisney Kids Races taking place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Friday and Saturday during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Encourage your youngsters to participate and sign up for any of the Kids Dashes or the One Mile Run during this fun-filled weekend. There’s even a Diaper Dash for crawlers! Space is limited.

    Parents are allowed to run with their child. Any parents that participate with their child must sign a separate event waiver. The event will follow a rolling start beginning with the 100m dash followed by the 200m and Diaper Dash. The One Mile Run will have a separate start location and time. All distances will utilize the same finish location.

    runDisney Kids Races Age Groups:
    • 12 months and under – Diaper Dash for crawlers
    • 1-4 years old – 100m dash
    • 5-8 years old – 200m dash
    • One Mile Run – Open to all children 13 years old & under

    runDisney Kids Dashes Race Participants Receive:

    • Finisher Medallion
    • runDisney Kids Races T-shirt
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*
    • Post-race refreshments

    One Mile Run Race Participants Receive:

    • Finisher Medallion*
    • runDisney Kids Races T-shirt
    • Personalized bib (Must register by October 3, 2017 for name to appear on bib)*
    • Post-race refreshments
    • One Mile Run Finisher Certificate
    • ChronoTrack B-tag timed race

    runDisney Health & Fitness Expo

    Wednesday, January 3, 2018 – Noon – 8:00 p.m.
    Thursday, January 4, 2018 – 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
    Friday, January 5, 2018 – 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
    Saturday, January 6, 2018 – 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

    Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

    Headquarters for everything you need to prepare for race weekend is at the Expo. All runners must attend the Expo for race number, shirt & gEAR bag pick-up. During the Expo celebration, you’ll be able to check out the latest in Official runDisney Race Weekend Merchandise, and get a sneak peek at the latest in fitness apparel, footwear, sunglasses, high tech gadgets, and nutritional products.

    runDisney Health & Fitness Expo Highlights:
    • Race number, shirt & gEAR bag pick-up
    • Official runDisney Merchandise
    • Latest in apparel, fitness equipment, high tech gadgets and nutritional products

    Disney Castaway Cay Challenge

    Disney Cruise Line 4-night Bahamian Cruise January 8-12, 2018 following Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend January 3-7, 2018

    Disney Castaway Cay 5K

    January 10, 2018

    From Parks to Paradise, join the Disney Castaway Cay Challenge! The Disney Castaway Cay Challenge is an ultimate running adventure, combining one magical 5K event or longer during the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (January 3-7, 2018) with a Castaway Cay 5K on Disney Cruise Line’s private tropical island in the Bahamas the following week. On Monday, when Marathon Weekend is over, set sail on board the Disney Dream for a 4-night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral. You’ll sail to Disney Castaway Cay for your 5K run along sandy white beaches, past swaying palms and sparkling turquoise lagoons, with magical Disney moments to surprise you along the way. It’s a runner’s paradise in a spectacular island oasis. From parks to paradise…and a dream getaway on board a magical cruise!

    Castaway Cay 5K Highlights:

    • 3.1-mile course through Disney Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas
    • Course runs past sparkling lagoons, the harbor and white sandy beaches
    • Surprise Disney magical moments and entertainment on course

    Castaway Cay Challenge Participants Receive:

    • Castaway Cay Challenge Event T-Shirt
    • Castaway Cay 5K Finisher Medallion
    • Castaway Cay Challenge Finisher Medal for participating in one Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend 5K or longer event PLUS the Castaway Cay 5K
    • Personalized bib (Must register by December 1, 2017 for name to appear on bib)
    • Post-race refreshments
    • Exciting activities and access to Special Merchandise on board Disney Cruise Line
    • Featured Healthy Menu Options on board Disney Cruise Line

    Runner’s World VIP

     

    The Runner’s World VIP program returns to the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna. This offers runners the best of both worlds, producing a race experience unlike any other. The program is an exclusive opportunity to be coached by Runner’s World‘s director of training and four-time Olympic Trials qualifier Budd Coates. Plus, you’ll also receive advice from the magazine’s experts on training, nutrition, and injury prevention. Then on race weekend you’ll be treated like a VIP with exclusive race weekend amenities at the place where running dreams truly do come true.

    Runner’s World VIP participants receive:

    • Runner’s World VIP Champion® tech shirt in time for your training to start
    • 25th Anniversary Commemorative Embroidered Champion Backpack
    • Exclusive 25th Anniversary Marathon Finisher’s Jacket
    • A membership in a 16- to 20-week training plan designed by Coach Budd, who has coached thousands of elites, celebs, and everyday runners (celebrity/VIP appearances subject to change or cancellation without notice)
    • Weekly email from Coach Budd leading up to the event with training, nutrition, and health tips for the upcoming week’s workouts
    • Direct online access to Runner’s World experts on training, nutrition, and injuries during the 16- to 20-week event training plan
    • Access to private RW VIP online training forum to connect with other runners training for the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
    • A membership for our interactive training log, where you can log your totals, watch your progress, and receive nightly e-mail reminders about the next day’s training
    • Exclusive early access to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, including private packet pick-up—there’s no need to walk all over the Expo since we’ve pulled all your race swag together for you (some restrictions may apply)
    • Pre-race course strategy session with the Runner’s World experts and editors
    • Pasta Party with Runner’s World editors
    • Exclusive pre-race walkout to corrals for the half marathon and full marathon
      • Corral placement will be determined based on proof of time that all runners must submit by October 3, 2017.
    • Entry to the Race Retreat on Saturday and Sunday
      • Pre-race amenities include hot and cold beverages with fruit and bagels, dedicated stretching area, and private port-a-lets, bag check and Disney character meet & greets
      • Post-race amenities include catered brunch, massage, private port-a-lets, bag pick-up and live results

    Runner’s World VIP Registration Package Fees

    • Dopey Challenge – $1,150

    VIP Race Retreat Package

    Wednesday, January 3, 2018

    Exclusive Early Access to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo
    Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

    Saturday, January 6, 2018
    3:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. (runners only)
    5:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (runners and Platinum ChEAR Squad only)
    Location: Imagine Lot, Epcot

    Sunday, January 7, 2018
    3:00 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. (runners only)
    5:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (runners and Platinum ChEAR Squad only)
    Location: Imagine Lot, Epcot

    Enjoy your race weekend even more with a VIP Race Retreat Package!

    The VIP Race Retreat Package is the ultimate way for runners to prepare for their race, get pampered, and reunite with friends and family once the race is over.

    • Exclusive Early Access to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo
    • Private Hospitality tent near the Finish Line including live video feed from the race and access to live runner results
    • Pre-race bagels and fruit, plus coffee, water and PowerAde
    • Private restrooms, changing tents and bag check
    • Disney character appearances
    • Recovery Zone including padded stretching area, self-treatment and first aid station and massages available for purchase (first-come, first-serve)
    • Disney catered post-race brunch
    • Designated location to meet friends and family to celebrate your accomplishment!*
    • Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend commemorative item

    Race Retreat Pricing:

    • Walt Disney World Marathon – $120
    • Walt Disney World Half Marathon – $120
    • Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge – $230
    • Dopey Challenge – $230
  • Disney Water Parks Closed Due to Freezing Temperature

    Disney Water Parks Closed Due to Freezing Temperature

    The cold never bothered us anyway! Okay so it actually does because temperatures are low enough that Disney has Closed Typhoon Lagoon.

    Cold weather is sweeping through Florida and bringing a chance of snow early Wednesday ahead of freezing rain north of Gainesville.

    Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon has been closed since Monday and also briefly closed last month due to cold weather.

    Blizzard Beach is already closed until January 6th for renovations, but the cold snap surely would have surely closed anyway.

    All other Walt Disney World Theme Parks remain are open for business.

    Typhoon Lagoon will be closed through Thursday, but that could change. Disney officials said they would evaluate later in the week if a longer closure would be needed.

  • Disney World Resort Pools Close Due to Cold Weather

    Disney World Resort Pools Close Due to Cold Weather

    Baby it’s cold outside. So cold in fact that Walt Disney World Resorts have closed their pools today due to the un-florida like temperatures.

    A massive cold snap that is covering much of the country and even Florida is feeling the effects. The lows on Wednesday to Friday will be around freezing (32F) and with the wind chill it will feel like it’s in the upper 20’s later in the week. Not until Sunday will there be a high into the 60s. Orlando hasn’t reached temperatures since January 2014. So it’s possible the they may close remain closed for a few days.

    If you need to warm up after a nice freezing day at the parks, the Hot Tubs will still be open at resorts that have them from 10am to 8pm.