Walt Disney World Resort Update for April 16-22, 2019
Writer's note: To those who celebrate, Happy Passover (starts sundown on Friday, April 19) and Happy Easter (Sunday, April 21). In recent years, Magic Kingdom has offered opportunities to meet the Easter Bunny and Mrs. Bunny in the garden outside City Hall, and has hosted a mini pre-parade ahead of Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade. As of our publication time, My Disney Experience has no published schedule information and we have not yet seen any official announcements about whether there will be any special entertainment this Easter Sunday. If we learn of some, we will note it on our Twitter feed.
We did spot Easter-themed treats on Main Street U.S.A. this past weekend. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
At Epcot, the hunt for Easter Eggs continues through Easter Sunday, April 21, as the “hoppy-est place on Earth” welcomes “wabbits of all ages” to Egg-stravaganza, the popular scavenger hunt around World Showcase in search of Disney character-themed eggs. Maps are available for $6.99 plus tax which, when completed, can be exchanged for a prize. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Looking back at last week, as promised, and despite a brief downpour about an hour before showtime (that drenched me and my friends awaiting the final 2019 Garden Rocks Concert by Dennis DeYoung and his band) last Tuesday night, Disney Parks presented its #DisneyParksLIVE stream of Epcot's presentation of Illuminations: Reflections of Earth. The streamed broadcast included the news that the final performance of this nighttime spectacular will be September 30, 2019. The next night, October 1, Epcot's 37th anniversary, the park will debut its new but temporary show Epcot Forever featuring musical tributes to attractions, shows, and spectaculars from the park's history.
The full replay of the #DisneyParksLIVE including Illuminations: Reflections of Earth and the brief behind-the-scenes showcase of the new show Epcot Forever is available on the Disney Parks You Tube Channel. Video ©Disney.
The broadcast included some behind-the-scenes moments showcasing work that is underway for the new but temporary show. Among the new visual elements being developed for the new show are lighted kites towed by fast-moving watercraft. Epcot Forever is expected to end its brief run in 2020 when the new, as yet unnamed, permanent new nighttime spectacular is ready to debut. Substantial infrastructure construction has been underway for several months now around World Showcase Lagoon that can be seen by guests particularly on and around the islands in the lagoon.
And now on to the rest of this week's News and Views…
News and Views
Headlines are auto-generated here
Coca-Cola Bottled For Batuu
During this past weekend's Star Wars Celebration event in Chicago, Actor and Star Wars fan Josh Gad hosted a panel discussion featuring Scott Trowbridge, Portfolio Creative Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering and other members of the team responsible for the upcoming Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge expansions coming May 31 to Disneyland and August 29 to Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World. As Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix said yesterday in the MousePlanet Disneyland Resort Update for April 15-21, 2019, MousePlanet's resident Star Wars expert Todd King will share his highlights here on MousePlanet.com on Thursday. Before then, though, we will note the significant new announcements made by the panel that may relate to guests' upcoming visits to Batuu (the planet you visit when at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge).
You can watch a replay of the entire #DisneyParksLIVE steam of the panel discussion on YouTube. Video ©Disney.
While many of the details discussed by the Celebration panel were previously discussed at Star Wars: Galactic Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, as we most recently recapped after the last one last May, the biggest new detail announced this weekend was the collaboration with Coca-Cola to design custom bottles for Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and DASANI that will be available only inside the new lands. The bottles have been designed in keeping with the level of immersion that is said to be the hallmark of the new lands and will feature scuffed labels printed in Aurebesh, the alphabet used in the Star Wars universe.
Coca-Cola bottle fans and Star Wars fans alike will be able to collect specially-themed bottles from Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Photo © Disney © Coca-Cola
The relationship between Disney Parks and Coca-Cola dates all the way back to the 1955 opening of Disneyland itself, with the “Refreshment Corner” on Main Street U.S.A. The unique bottles add another level of storytelling to the new lands coming to both California and Florida parks, and further distinguish these new lands from the Harry Potter lands at Universal's parks, which do not sell Coca-Cola branded products at all despite the fact that Coca-Cola products are available elsewhere in those parks.
Disney and Coca-Cola have produced a short video advertising the availability of the new bottles in the new lands. Video ©Coca-Cola Co. & Disney.
If you were watching the stream LIVE, you would have seen one of our @MousePlanet tweets telling our followers to watch go past a few times, including during the Coca-Cola announcement. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The panel showed off a few more elements that guests will be able to interact with in the new land using the Play Disney app. For fans of the original version of Star Tours, the panel shared that the attraction's former pilot, Rex, who Disney previously announced would be a DJ in the Cantina in the new land, will again be voiced by its original voice actor, Paul Reubens (most famous for playing Pee Wee Herman). The panel also revealed that Frank Oz returns to voice Yoda for his (unspecified) role in Batuu.
Disney Parks Blog also shared a first look at some of the exclusive merchandise that will only be available at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Again, be sure to check out MousePlanet.com on Thursday for Todd King's article for more highlights from Star Wars Celebration.
Lounging In the Style of “Beauty and the Beast”
Last week, we noted the refurbishment closure of Mizner's Lounge at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Disney Parks Blog has announced that this bar and lounge location, which had previously been Commander Porter's, is being rethemed to “celebrate the magic and romance of the popular Disney live-action movie” Beauty and the Beast.
When the venue reopens this fall it will feature four spaces inspired by the film. The “signature bar” will be lit by a gold chandelier inspired by Belle's ball gown, with subtle “nods” to the Beast's magical rose. The “formal library” will showcase “classical baroque designs and French furnishings” inspired by Belle, with hints of the other characters of Beast's castle. The “garden room” will draw inspiration from the “enchanted forest surrounding Beast's castle,” and a new outdoor patio will “evoke the romance of Beast's garden terrace.”
We noticed last week that, at least during the initial phases of the transformation of the lounge, Disney's Grand Floridian Society Orchestra has relocated to a temporary stage on the main level of the lobby rather than its ususal “balcony” (second level) space in front of the lounge. The Orchestra continues to alternate set times with a pianist. Afternoon and evening performance times are listed in the My Disney Experience app.
Party For the Planet April 20-22
Earth Day, April 22, is Walt Disney World's youngest theme park's 21st anniversary, and Disney's Animal Kingdom marks the occasion again this year with its Party for the Planet. The Oasis area inside the park entrance will feature “a larger-than-life” marine debris sculpture celebrating the latest Disneynature film Penguins. Throughout the park, there will be unique character experiences, special entertainment offerings, and commemorative photo opportunities with Disney PhotoPass photographers. Some of the park's animal care experts, educators, and conservation experts will also be on hand to show how Disney cares for animals in the park and around the world. There will be special animal feedings and training experiences scheduled during the Party for the Planet. This page of DisneyWorld.com highlights all of the Party for the Planet details.
A marine debris sculpture celebrating “Penguins” already is on display at Epcot between The Land and The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For humans looking for a feeding of their own, the park is offering special “Tiffins Talks” in the signature restaurant featuring Walt Disney Imagineer and Portfolio Executive Joe Rohde, the “beloved creative force behind the concept, design and buildout of Disney's Animal Kingdom.” For $199 plus tax and gratuity (and park admission required, not included), dine on a 4-course lunch of global dishes, desserts and special beverages while Joe shares stories from his travels. Space is limited and reservations are available at (407) WDW-DINE.
Joe Rohde will also be appearing at Mombassa Marketplace on April 20 and 22, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., to sign a print of artwork he created featuring a lion. A wristband is required to meet Joe, which will be distributed (in limited number) with the sale of the prints at Mombassa Marketplace; guests will be limited to two signings of the purchased prints (and guests will be required to show their receipts).
Epcot Concerts & Candlelight Processional News and Calendar
As we noted last week, this year's Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will debut on August 29 (yes, the very same day that Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios) and will run a record 87 days, through November 23. The three-times-nightly Eat to the Beat Concert Series will only run August 29 to November 19, to allow the America Gardens Theatre stage to be prepared for the 2019 edition of Epcot's Candlelight Processional. The Epcot International Festival of the Holidays will run November 29 through December 30, including the three-times-nightly retelling of the traditional Christmas story by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a mass choir and live orchestra. Eat to the Beat performers and Candlelight celebrity narrators have not yet been announced.
In the meantime, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival continues its Garden Rocks Concert Series on the America Gardens stage three times nightly through June 3. For more information or for reserving dining packages with guaranteed concert seating, call (407) WDW-DINE or visit FreshEpcot.com. Passholders can save 10% on food and beverages (except alcohol and excluding tax and gratuity) on dining packages for themselves and up to three guests.
Dennis DeYoung, former lead singer of STYX, and his band wrapped up six Garden Rocks Concerts at Epcot last Tuesday night (well, five concerts plus one interrupted by lightning on Monday). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Before the Food & Wine Festival this summer, Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! will return to the stage from June 14 through August 18. Star-Lord and Gamora (along with an “alien” band) will take a “musical journey” that showcases hits from Star-Lord's Awesome Mix tapes. The show will be performed multiple times daily.
With Groot remotely patching “Awesome Mix” music into the headphones of of an alien band, Star-Lord tried to teach them how to become the “Galaxy's greatest cover band” during last summer's edition of the Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! Concerts. Gamora seemed unimpressed. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For the convenience of our readers, all of the scheduled Garden Rocks Concert Series performers at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. All of the Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live!, Eat to the Beat Concert Series and Candlelight Processional dates are now noted as well, though we do not yet know the scheduled performers or celebrity narrators. Where our Google Calendar of Epcot Events includes a list of the scheduled performers, it is still always best to check the My Disney Experience app, Times Guide, and, yes, sometimes even signs posted at the park entrances and at the theater noting last minute changes. You can add the whole Event calendar to any calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link and, as we get additional information and update the calendar, the calendar will update on your subscribed device as well. The calendar is provided as a courtesy “as is, where is” without any guarantees. Given the effort it took to create it and keep it updated, we do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. Walt Disney World Resort does provide schedules in the My Disney Experience app, but does not allow you to add dates to calendars outside the app itself.
Views Around the World
Magic Kingdom
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Easter Egg Display
Last week, we shared some photos of the Easter Egg display from Bonnie and Donald Fink's visit to the Resort. This week, I stopped by for a look and have a few more photos to share.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Epcot
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Continues through June 3. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Daisy Duck Passholder magnet is now available for the remainder of the Festival (or while supplies last). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This and That…
…Last week, we shared the news that Disney Vacation Club Member sales have begun for its 15th proposed property, Disney's Riviera Resort at Walt Disney World, and that Member bookings opened April 10 for those with it as a home resort, and will open starting May 16 for other eligible Members for stays starting December 19. Now, as posted on Disney Parks Blog, general sales have begun as well (with some limited time incentives available). Disney Vacation Club also has announced a sweepstakes to win a stay at the new resort. Visit RivieraResortSweeps.com to read the rules, watch a short video, and complete the registration form to enter for a chance to win a 5-day, 4-night Disney Vacation Club getaway—for you and up to 7 Guests—that includes: Accommodations in a Two-Bedroom Villa at Disney’s Riviera Resort, 3-Day Walt Disney World Theme Park Tickets with Park Hopper Option, and airfare (but only if the winner lives more than 250 miles away from Walt Disney World Resort).
…Disney's Animal Kingdom is once again offering its “Tasting Sampler” digital value cards for a limited time. The $50 sampler includes two digital value cards: a $50 card that can be used at more than 40 outdoor food and beverage locations throughout the park (indicated on the Tasting Sampler map) and does not expire, and a $10 bonus card that can be used at the following specific quick-service locations after 5 p.m. through April 22: Restaurantosaurus (DinoLand U.S.A), Pizzafari and Pizzafari Family-Style Dining (Discovery Island), Flame Tree Barbecue (Discovery Island), and Satu'li Canteen (Pandora – The World of Avatar). The bonus card expires and cannot be used after April 22.
…With Easter coming up on Sunday, Disney Floral & Gifts has some new Disney-themed Easter baskets that you can send (to yourself or anyone staying at Walt Disney World). Visit DisneyFloralAndGifts.com or call a “Dream Maker” at (407)827-3437 for Easter or any other occasion's special deliveries.
…As Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival passes roughly its midpoint, its complimentary Passholder magnet offer changed from Pluto over to Daisy Duck and the park rolled out more new passholder exclusive merchandise at Mouse Gear and Odyssey. You can get a look at some of the latest offerings on Disney Parks Blog.
On April 11 only, Passholders could purchase a Daisy Duck-themed cookie at Taste Track. Photo by Donald Fink.
Passholders can now get the complimentary Daisy Duck magnet at Mouse Gear or Port of Entry through the end of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival on June 3 (or while supplies last). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
…Reminder: a sneak peek preview of Disney's new live-action version of the film Aladdin will debut inside Walt Disney Presents at Disney's Hollywood Studios starting April 19. The limited-run preview will also debut aboard ships of Disney Cruise Line and at the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland in California.
Two of the stars of the film, Will Smith and Mena Massoud, introduce a preview to the preview coming to Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line on April 19. Video ©Disney.
…Last week, Disney announced that its new digital content streaming service Disney+ will launch on November 12, 2019. Among the exclusive programming slated for the new service within its first year is a show entitled, “Magic of Animal Kingdom” from the recently acquired National Geographic Channel which will focus on the animal-care experts, veterinarians and biologists that work at Disney's Animal Kingdom and at the SeaBase aquarium at Epcot. D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has a wrap-up of the announcement and highlights of the new offerings; Variety also has an extensive rundown of all of the shows and movies coming to the service. At launch, Disney+ will be available to subscribers for $6.99/month.
…The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort has announced the menu and themed areas for the 2019 Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic which will take place Friday, November 8 and Saturday, November 9, 2019. The event includes more than 90 tasting stations and wine from more than 60 wineries along the hotel's causeway. We have posted the press release in its entirety on MousePad. For more information and to purchase tickets and overnight packages, visit SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com.
…Disney Parks Blog continues its historical look at the parks this week with the “uniquely Walt” creation, Tom Sawyer Island, which debuted at Disneyland on June 16, 1956, and opened at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World on May 20, 1973.
…The MousePlanet Newsletter is here! The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your email in the box below.
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New & Coming Soon at Disney Springs
This section collects all of the Disney Springs retail and dining events we are aware of in one place along with our most recent views of the area (including those immediately under this paragraph). Event items NEW to the Update are marked accordingly. For even more of the latest news around Disney Springs, follow its official Twitter Feed: @DisneySprings.
The Disney Ticket Center is now open in Town Center to serve guest theme and water park ticketing nees. The Welcome Center nearby remains open for more general Guest Services needs. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
NEW More Parking Now Available at Disney Springs
NEW The new Grapefruit Garage on Buena Vista Drive is scheduled to open to the public today, April 16, 2019. The two older Disney Springs garages, Orange and Lime, have been undergoing technology work relating to the systems used to indicate where spaces are available, and, at least, as of last week, both still had some work ongoing that could still interfere with traffic flow and limit the number of spaces available in those garages.
We’re excited to share the Grapefruit Garage, the third parking garage along Buena Vista Drive, will officially open April 16! The new garage provides even more parking for guests & a new pedestrian bridge allowing for convenient and safe access directly to the Marketplace. 🚗 pic.twitter.com/9jlYD1zCkE
— Disney Springs (@DisneySprings) April 9, 2019
Watch overhead signs on Buena Vista Drive to see which parking locations may have available spaces. File photo by Alan S. Dalinka (pixilation caused by the difference between the sign's refresh rate and the camera; to the photographer's eyes, the sign did not pixilate in person).
File Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Jaleo
NEW Following its grand opening earlier this Spring, Jaleo invited us to a hosted tasting this past week. While the Update leaves reviews to others, the new restaurant featuring the cuisine of Spain provided us an opportunity to enjoy a meal of tapas-style small plates and cocktails in its festive new venue on the West Side. The folks at the restaurant told us that they would like guests to enjoy meals at the restaurant as an experience. If you are constrained for time when you dine here, be sure to let your server know so that the server can help guide your menu choices to those that can be served more quickly and help you make it to that movie or concert or to the rest of your Disney Springs adventure. Be sure to see our Instagram Story Highlight for more!
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos Courtesy ThinkFood Group.
Wine Bar George
Wine Bar George recently introduced its new “Wine Country Brunch,” which is now offered every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 3 p.m. See the menu online here or download a PDF of the menu here. Reservations are available on OpenTable, including for Easter Weekend, where its NEW brunch offerings will include new French Toast with caramel sauce, Burrata with avocado and bacon and more.
Terralina Crafted Italian
NEW For Easter dinner on April 21, Terralina's menu features seared scallop risotto with spring asparagus and sweet cherry tomatoes ($36).
NEW For Mother's Day, May 12, Terralina's menu will have Maine lobster and sweet corn ravioli with mascarpone and chives in a saffron cream ($36).
NEW For Father's Day, June 16, Terralina's menu will include braised osso Bucco in a rich spicy tomato and fennel ragu ($34).
Paddlefish
NEW For Easter dinner on April 21, Paddlefish's menu features flounder with shrimp, scallops, beurre blanc and asparagus ($36), as well as a special Easter Martini complete with a chocolate egg candy garnish ($14).
NEW For Mother's Day, May 12, Paddlefish's menu features Lobster Ravioli ($33) paired with a blush mimosa ($13).
NEW For Father's Day, June 16, Paddlefish's menu includes rib eye, shrimp skewer, bearnaise, whipped potato ($47), and bourbon daddy's ($15). Just ahead of Father's Day, on June 15, the venue is hosting a Father's Day Scotch/Bourbon Tasting and Cigar Rolling event from noon to 3 p.m. ($75) with more details coming soon.
Patina Restaurant Group
On Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019, all three of Patina Restaurant Group's venues at Disney Springs will offer brunch options. Maria & Enzo's will serve a buffet of classic Italian dishes from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and will include an opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny and receive a complimentary printed photo souvenir. Enzo's Hideaway will begin seating at 10:30 a.m. and will supplement its traditional menu with specialty items. The Edison will also begin seating at 10:30 a.m. with its signature menu and three Easter specials. For more information, visit this page of PatinaGroup.com.
The Edison
For April's Burger of the Month, The Edison is offering its “Prime Pretzel Twist Burger,” which features its sinature blend of sirloin, short rib, and brisket topped with sautéed mushrooms and shaved prime rib au jus on a freshly baked pretzel roll. The Edison's recommended adult beverage pairing for the burger is a tall glass of “Booker's Tea,” a southern-inspired cocktail featuring Knob Creek Barrel Bourbon, Ketel One Peach & Orange Botanicals Vodka, simple syrup, honey, Woodford Orange Bitters, and fresh brewed herbal tea.
The Prime Pretzel Burger is The Edison's April Burger of the Month. Image courtesy Patina Restaurant Group.
Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar
The Smuggler's Series is offered at Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar monthly through October. Based on our hosted media-invited experience, for those interested in learning a bit about the beverages they drink, these sessions can be quite informative and the restaurant's culinary team works hard to prepare dishes to compliment the beverages served.
►Crooked Can Brewing Co., Wednesday, April 17, 7 p.m., $45 per person
►Hendricks Gin, Saturday, May 4, 2 p.m., $60 per person
►Terrapin Brewing Company, Wednesday, June 19, 7 p.m., $45 per person
►Bourbon – Tim Hiesler, Bourbon ambassador for Jim Beam, Basil Hayden, Maker's Mark
Wednesday, July 17, 7 p.m., $60 per person
►Scotch, WM Grants – Balvenie & Glenfiddich, Wednesday, August 21, 7 p.m., $60 per person
►Crooked Stave, Wednesday, September 18, 7 p.m., $45 per person
►Tito’s Vodka, Wednesday, October 23, 7 p.m., $60 per person
Meet Disney Artists in WonderGround Gallery in the Marketplace Co-Op during April
- Jasmine Becket-Griffith – April 20, 4-7 p.m.
- Ashley Taylor – April 26, 3-6 p.m.; April 27 & 28, 12-3 p.m; & April 29, 3-6 p.m.
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Resort Events
Check here to see if a park event might fall during your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you know of any in-park events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, please send us an email.
Just click the year you want to expand (or close).
2019 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours:(hard ticket required; park entry at 7 p.m., event hours vary by published date)
…at Magic Kingdom:- May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
…Disney Villains at Magic Kingdom (Tickets go on sale 4/29)
- June 6, 13, 20 & 27
- July 1, 11, 18 & 25
- August 1 & 8
…at Disney's Hollywood Studios (including two “special” events):
- May 1 (30th Anniversary), 4 (Star Wars), 10, 17, 24 & 31
- June 14, 21 & 28
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom:
- May 7, 14 & 21
- June 4, 11 & 18
- Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic:(registration required)
…at Epcot- May 13 & 20, 2019
- Registration filled
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom
- July 18, August 8 & 22, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: June 5, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: June 12, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
…at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon
- September 18 & October 16, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: August 14, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: August 28, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Mickey & Minnie's Surprise Celebration at Magic Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Party with Pixar Pals at Disney's Hollywood Studios – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- 25 Years of The Lion King at Disney's Animal Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 6 – June 3, 2019
- Dapper Days at Walt Disney World (Unofficial Events) – April 26-28 and November 16-17, 2019
April 26: Disney Springs; April 27: Magic Kingdom; April 28: Epcot - Disney's Hollywood Studios 30th Anniversary – May 1, 2019
Includes an anniversary ceremony, one-day-only parade, and the debut of “Wonderful World of Animation” projection show - Disney H2O Glow Nights at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon (hard ticket required)
Thursday & Saturday nights from May 30-August 24, 2019. - Gay Days at Walt Disney World (#RedShirtDays – unofficial events) – August 15-18, 2019
Disney's Animal Kingdom: August 15; Disney's Hollywood Studios: August 16;
Magic Kingdom: August 17; Epcot: August 18 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom (hard ticket required)
- August 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
- September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29
- October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31
- November 1
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – August 29 – November 23, 2019 (Eat to the Beat Concerts end November 19)
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – October 31 – November 3, 2019
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – November 29 – December 30, 2019 (includes Candlelight Processional)
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom (hard ticket required) — Late Fall/Winter 2019
- November: 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22 & 24
- December: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20 & 22
2020 Resort Events
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 8-12, 2020
- Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 20-23, 2020
- MORE EVENTS COMING SOON!
Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. All refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit DisneyWorld.com or use the MyDisneyExperience App on your iOS or Android device.
View the different areas of the Resort by scrolling horizontally and selecting the one you want to read about.
Magic Kingdom
- Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial – No longer listed in My Disney Experience (final show was September 29, 2018).
- Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as “available seasonally throughout the year”
Be aware that it is increasingly unlikely it will reopen; the attraction's lobby is usually used for greeting Stitch - Walt Disney World Railroad – Closed as of December 3, 2018 to accomodate TRON construction (reopening to be announced). Guests can visit a Walt Disney World Railroad train at Main Street Station.
- Tomorrowland Speedway – Closed as of January 2, 2019 for track adjustment to accomodate TRON construction (expected reopening mid-May).
Epcot
- The SpectacuLAB presented by Murata (in Innoventions) – no longer open or listed in My Disney Experience
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Permanently closed on August 13, 2017.
Guardians of the Galaxy-themed roller coaster-type attraction opens in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – Closed February 3, 2018. (New film entitled “Awesome Planet” announced.)
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Final performance: September 30, 2019.
“Epcot Forever” debuts October 1 for a limited run which will be followed by a new nighttime spectacular in 2020
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Star Wars: Path of the Jedi – Currently only available during Star Wars Guided Tours
- Disney Movie Magic (projection show) – final published scheduled showing April 30, 2019
Wonderful World of Animation (projection show) scheduled to debut May 1, 2019 - The Great Movie Ride – Permanently closed August 13, 2017.
The new “Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway” attraction to open in Chinese Theatre in Fall 2019.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Conservation Station – Rafiki's Planet Watch – Wildlife Express Train – Closed – announced reopening Summer 2019
Disney Water Parks
- No known closures.
Disney Springs
- DisneyQuest – Closed as of July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience is scheduled to open August 12, 2019. - La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
A new Cirque du Soleil show is now in development with its premiere date to be announced. - Wolfgang Puck Grand Café – Closed August 1, 2017.
Location has been transformed into Jaleo, a restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine.
A new restaurant, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, is now open next door to the Coca-Cola Store.
Wolfgang Puck Express continues to operate in its existing location in the Marketplace.
Disney Resorts
- Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Mizner's Lounge closed for refurbishment; reopening planned for fall 2019.
- Caribbean Beach – The overall construction project at the Resort is expected to be completed 2019–20. The resort's new lobby, restaurants and other amenities, including Sebastian's Bistro, Centertown Market, and Banana Cabana are all now open.
- Coronado Springs –The new 15-story “Gran Destino Tower” overlooking Lago Dorado, the resort's central lake, will open in July, 2019, adding 545 rooms, including 50 suites and concierge level services, and a rooftop dining facility that will include panoramic views of nighttime fireworks shows at the Theme Parks. The Gran Destino Tower will serve as the new main entrance point for the resort. Reservations are now open. The resort's more than 1,800 existing rooms have been fully updated with new fixtures, furniture and lighting. A second new restaurant is planned to open on an island in the middle of Lago Dorado with new walkways across the water. Disney Parks Blog posted the latest renderings of the project in an article on October 16, 2018.
- Disney's Art of Animation Resort – The Big Blue Pool will close for refurbishment beginning in Fall 2020.
Walt Disney World Golf
- No known closures.
Current Discounts and Promotions
Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers.
Walt Disney World Resort theme park tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Florida or eligible for U.S. Military Personnel benefits. It is increasingly true that non-Florida residents tend to benefit the most by purchasing tickets in advance (and, of course, being mindful of the rules relevant to those tickets). As prices go up, it becomes even more important to pay heed: Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside Disney property stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Walt Disney World Theme Park admissions, and may result in denial of entry. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or a travel agency like MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Today.
Be sure to move the calendar to at least seven (7) days out, to see what ticket options and discounts are available for your planned visit.
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For Everyone
4-Park Magic Tickets
On January 18, Disney introduced a new four park ticket that provides one admission per theme park each day that must be used within 7 days of first use or by an expiration based upon price category, whichever comes first (Value: March 1; Select or Summer: September 30). To purchase, call (407)939-7646 or visit this page of DisneyWorld.com
Value | Select | Summer |
---|---|---|
Adult: $85/day ($340 plus tax) Child: $80/day ($320 plus tax) |
Adult: $89/day ($356 plus tax) Child: $84/day ($336 plus tax) |
Adult: $95/day ($380 plus tax) Child: $90/day ($360 plus tax) |
Valid only through 3/1/2019 | Valid through 3/14/2019, 3/27 to 4/9/2019, 4/27 to 5/27/2019 and 8/19 to 9/30/2019 |
Valid through 3/14/2019, 3/27 to 4/9/2019, 4/27 to 9/30/2019 |
Note that tickets are nontransferable and nonrefundable, do not include admission to hard ticket events and activities. If you purchase the 4-Park Magic tickets for higher-priced dates but use them on lower-priced dates, there will be no credits or refunds issued.
As further incentive to purchase park tickets in advance, for other ticket types, you can save $20 when you buy a 3-day or longer Disney Theme Park Ticket online compared to the price of the same ticket purchased at theme park ticket windows. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com official ticket purchasing options.
Sun & Fun Room Offer
- Save up to 25% for stays most nights April 28 through May 27, 2019 when you book through May 27, 2019
- Save up to 30% for stays most nights May 28 through September 30, 2019 when you book through March 24, 2019
The Soak Up the Sun and Fun Offer varies by resort category and the savings depend upon dates which may also have length of stay requirements. In addition to the link, you can call (407)827-7393 for more information and availability, or you can contact your travel agent.
Save Up to 20% on Rooms
If your travel dates do not line up with the Sun & Fun Room Offer, you may still be able to save up to 20% on rooms for stays most nights through April 27, 2019, at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Get more information and check availability this page of DisneyWorld.com, or call (407)939-2769 or your travel agent.
Memory Maker pre-arrival discount
Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $199 plus tax, Walt Disney World guests can digitally download any photos associated with their Memory Maker account, including photos taken on attractions. The advanced purchase price is $169, a $30 savings. Applicable taxes are charged to all orders.
Purchase must be made more than three days prior to arrival at the Walt Disney World Resort for the discount. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund. Both the immediate and discount version of Memory Maker can be purchased at this page of DisneyWorld.com.
For Annual Passholders
Expect to be required to show your Passholder Card and matching photo ID to receive a discount and other benefits. |
Passholders visiting Epcot during the 2019 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival can get a complimentary Daisy Duck-themed passholder magnet at MouseGear or Port of Entry by showing your pass and matching photo ID (while supplies last).
The Pluto Passholder magnet was available to from the beginning of the Festival until April 10. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. (You may need to sign in to see the full list applicable to your pass.) Don't forget about the dedicated V.I.PASSHOLDER SUPPORT service for questions about Passholder benefits and recommendations. Call (407)WDW-PASS or on-line chat (via chat button on this page of DisneyWorld.com) daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern, by email (via a web form), or in-person at Liberty Square Ticket Office in Magic Kingdom, Ticket Central at Disney's Hollywood Studios, or Ticket Corner at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity).
Through August 31, Passholders save 15% off lunch or dinner at Maria & Enzo's, Enzo's Hideaway and The Edison (for the Passholder and up to 10 Guests).
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts at many merchandise locations across Walt Disney World Resort, including locations that continue to offer 20 percent discounts off regularly priced merchandise. Remember, not all merchandise locations at Walt Disney World are owned and operated by Disney, but some of the non-Disney participants (including restaurants) offer discounts between 10 and 20% to Passholders as well. Note, the current terms and conditions include, “Discount is for personal use only and may not be used to purchase merchandise with the intent to resell the merchandise.“
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for special events and tours at locations around Walt Disney World Resort.
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for sports, recreation, and spas around Walt Disney World Resort.
For the current list of Passholder Extras visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Passholder Extras include information about V.I.Passholder Perks, discounts on Disney After Hours events, Animal Encounter and tour discounts, Water Park discounts, Golf discounts, and more.
Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” offers a $5 discount on stroller rental when staying at a Disney Resort Hotel and using coupon code WDWAP18 to arrange your rental. It is listed on the “Passholders Extras” page of the Passholder website (last checked April 15, 2019).
Visit the DisneyWorld.com Special Offers page (filtered for Passholders) and log in with a My Disney Experience account linked to your Annual Pass for information, or call (407) 939-4232 to book by phone.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders
Reminder to MagicBand users: You must still show your Disney Visa credit card to receive discounts and other benefits. Discounts are not automatically applied even if you have linked your Disney Visa credit card to your MagicBand. |
To conserve space, we have eliminated some of the participating location details of the Disney Visa Rewards offers from this section. Visit Disney Visa Rewards website for the latest participating location information.
20 percent off Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks
Disney Visa cardholders receive 20 percent off their entire purchase at Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks throughout Walt Disney World, including Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, and online at Joffreys.com with code: VISABEANS
15 percent off select guided tours
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of selected guided tours for up to 10 people. The cardholder must participate in the tour, and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card. Discounts are not available on Premium VIP tours, programs exclusive to groups, or group team building programs.
10 percent off select restaurants
Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Offer excludes alcoholic beverages, merchandise, tobacco, room service, holiday buffets, tax and gratuity. Discount may not be available at all meal times. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for the latest list of restaurants and restrictions.
10 percent off merchandise
Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off at participating Disney-owned retail location when you spend a minimum of $50 and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Read all of the restrictions on the this page of disneyrewards.com.
Cardholders also receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at the following Walt Disney World Resort Operating Participant merchandise locations including Basin, Basin White, Chapel Hats, Good Fortune Gifts and House of Good Fortune, kidsHeritage, Luxury of Time, Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts, Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks and Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, Sperry and Volcom.
15 percent off all Disney spa and salon services
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of any salon treatment valued at $45 or greater or any 50-minute or longer spa service most days at the spas and salons at Walt Disney World Resort. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for participating locations and restrictions.
10 percent off select recreation experiences
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of the recreation experiences listed below:
- Carriage Rides at Disney's Port Orleans Resort and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Horseback Trail Rides at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Epcot
Present your Disney's Visa Card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot (enter near the jumping fountains near the exit to the Magic Eye Theater). You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Present your Disney's Visa card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
For Military Personnel
2019 Military Promotional Tickets
January 1 through December 19, 2019
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets –$241.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $291.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $257.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $307.00
Prices do not include tax and tickets must be used by December 19, 2019.
Prices may be lower at U.S. military base ticket offices.
U.S. military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98 through December 19, 2019.
For more information, definitions and details, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by eligible service members or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouse), and one ticket must be used by that member of the military (or spouse). Each ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.
Special pricing for Memory Maker is available at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows when purchased by eligible service members or their spouses. No more than two Memory Maker products can be purchased by an eligible service member or their spouse. Usual Memory Maker restrictions apply and a MagicBand is required to receive some digital content.
Special Rates at Resort Hotels
U.S. military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2018, for stays most nights through April 13, and from April 26 through December 19, 2018. Offer excludes suites in Moderate and Deluxe Resort hotels, 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Call (407)939-4249 for information and reservations. Eligibility details are listed on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Read more information at militarydisneytips.com, visit your base ticket office, or when at Walt Disney World, visit Shades of Green.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Florida Residents
Park Tickets
Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket
Walt Disney World Resort continues to offer Florida resident discount ticket programs. For the first half of 2019, the Discover Disney Ticket offer has returned. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for more information and purchasing options. Proof of Florida residence will be required at park entrance
- 3-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $175 plus tax
- 3-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper – $207.50 plus tax
- 3-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper Plus – $232.50 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $195 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper – $232.50 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper Plus – $257.50 plus tax
Discover Disney Tickets are valid for admission to one park per day (unless Park Hopper is added) and can be used anytime through June 30, 2019, with no blockout dates. Tickets must be purchased by June 27, 2019. Proof of Florida residency required. Tickets exclude activities and events separately priced (i.e. “hard ticket” events and such).
The Park Hopper Plus Option permits visits to Disney Water Parks, select Disney Golf courses, and select other opportunities. The 3-Day Plus Option permits 3 visits; the 4-Day Plus Option permits 4 visits.
All tickets and options expire June 30, 2019. A wholly unused ticket can be applied to the purchase of a new ticket with an equal or higher price after the expiration date of the original ticket.
Other Florida Resident Offers
For special tickets, passes and offers available to Florida Residents, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Spring Florida resident hotel rates starting at $88/person per day for a 3-night/4-day package for a family of 4 at a select Disney's All-Star Resort for travel through April 27, 2019, are available on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Vacation Club Members
Member Benefits and Discounts may be found on this page of DisneyVacationClub.com. Note: some benefits and discounts are only available to those with a valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card which is only available to Members owning at least 75 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.
Disney Cruise Line is offering eligible Members a 30 percent discount off original points chart values for select Bahamian sailings aboard the Disney Dream out of Port Canaveral, Florida: 5-night sailings departing June 28, and July 7 and 12, 2019, each featuring two stops at Disney’s private-island paradise, Castaway Cay, as well as select Mexican Riviera sailings aboard the Disney Wonder out of San Diego, California: 7-night Halloween on the High Seas voyages departing October 20 and 27, 2019. More information and eligible itineraries are on this page of the DVC website. The offer is only valid on reservations made through DVC Member Services.
Adventures by Disney is offering eligible Members 20 percent off original points chart values for select river cruises and land-based trips including Danube River Cruises (featuring eight destinations in four countries – Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary) departing June 6, July 12 and December 15, 2019, and Rhine River Cruises (featuring six destinations in four countries – Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands) departing July 15, 22 and 29, 2019. This Adventures by Disney discount is also available for short escapes in the U.S. (with options in Boston, New York City, the American Southwest and more), and lengthier explorations of Europe, Asia, Central America and South America. Discount applies to reservations made entirely with vacation points, or through a combination of vacation points and cash. More information and eligible trips are on this page of the DVC website. The offer is only valid on reservations made through DVC Member Services.
Call DVC Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to take advantage of these offers.
If you know of an offer that you think most Members do not know about, please drop us an email with the details.
For New England Residents
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort celebrates February's big football game victory by the team from New England by offering the “Champions Package” to residents of New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. For stays through December 24, 2019 (minimum stay of three nights required), the Champions Package includes $100 meal credit, which can be used at Shula's Steak House (named for NFL's winningest coach, Don Shula) or any other restaurant at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. It also includes a “one category complimentary room upgrade that does not include suite upgrades.” Guests must have valid state identification at check-in from an eligible state. More information and details of the offer are available at this page of SwanDolphin.com. More information and reservations are available by calling (800)227-1500 and mentioning “CHAMPS.”
For Canada Residents
Canada residents can purchase an adult 4-day or longer base theme park ticket for as low as $316 (that is $79/day; US Dollars not including tax). Upgrades to the Park Hopper Option are also available. Tickets may be purchased on this page of DisneyWorld.com for Canada residents or by phone at (407)939-7648. This offer is available through March 15, 2019, and they may be used through September 27, 2019 (but are blocked December 24, 2018, to January 1, 2019). Tickets must be used within 14 days of first use or by September 27, 2019, whichever is earlier.
All adults using Canada resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canada residency that includes government-issued photo ID to exchange the certificate for a valid ticket at the theme park ticket window or Guest Relations prior to first use. The offer itself requires advanced purchase; it is not available at Walt Disney World Resort theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options are nontransferable, nonrefundable and exclude events/activities separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and to other restrictions.
Check https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/ca/ for the latest offers from Disney.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For U.K. Residents
You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. It now features an offer where everyone on your booking dines for FREE during their entire stay when you book a Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort Hotel and Ticket package for a minimum of 5 nights in 2019; also enjoy FREE Breakfast if you stay in a Value Resort Hotel! Plus, enjoy speciality non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages during your stay!
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
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