Walt Disney World Resort Update for February 20-26, 2018
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Writer's note: Notwithstanding the ticket and parking price increases we reported last week, Walt Disney World Resort remained quite busy this past week leading into yesterday's observance of Presidents Day. The beautiful, above-normal 80°+ temperatures probably helped, as did the last weekend of the very popular Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Just like last week, if you want to jump to our Discounts and Promotions section now, there is a link at the end of that section to bring you right back here
The big news this week around Walt Disney World Resort boils down to just one sentence: Toy Story Land officially opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios this summer on June 30, 2018. While we expect that the new 11-acre land's opening will take some of the strain off of the park's existing and still operating attractions—and will add some much-needed attractions that the whole family can enjoy together—we do not expect the new land to be a “game changer” for the park the way Pandora – The World of Avatar has been for Disney's Animal Kingdom. Rather, this is just the next evolutionary step for this park that will still be named Disney's Hollywood Studios after all. Sure, Toy Story Land is going to drive lots of folks to the park who go to anything new. It is also going to attract folks that may have been skipping the park for its perceived (or actual) lack of rides. But we do not expect there is a pent-up demand of first-time park visitors who will descend on the park to see Alien Swirling Saucers and Slinky Dog Dash, the way that we think they will when the Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge lands debut at Disneyland in California and here at Disney's Hollywood Studios sometime in 2019. Nevertheless, like the continued popularity of Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Magic Kingdom, we would not bet against long wait times for the new attractions, and perhaps even like the opening days of Pandora, waits to get in to see the new land. We will certainly have more to say about Toy Story Land in the coming weeks leading up to June 30, so stay tuned.
How well do you think you know the “ABCs” of Epcot attractions? This new hat says, “If you can read this…” on the front. Guess what it says on the back, and then read all the way to the end of the “This and That” section to see it. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
News and Views
Toy Story Land Opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios on June 30, 2018 | Epcot's The American Adventure Updated | Murata Cheerleaders Visit Epcot's SpectacuLab at innoventions | The Disney Corner Opens at Disney Springs in Town Center |Epcot Concert News & Calendar | Views around the World | This and That | Crowd Forecast
Toy Story Land Opens at Disney's Hollywood Studios on June 30, 2018
Toy Story Land, inspired by the Disney-Pixar films, will officially open to guests at Disney's Hollywood Studios on June 30, 2018. The land will “shrink” guests down to the size of a toy to venture into Andy's backyard so that they can join Andy's other beloved toys like Woody, Jessie, Buzz, Slinky Dog, and even the Pizza Planet aliens.
My Disney Experience App now lists both Alien Swirling Saucers and Slinky Dog Dash in the list of Walt Disney World Resort attractions, though both say they are “Opening June 30, 2018.” The park map in the App does not yet show more than a placeholder for the new land. Screenshots by Alan S. Dalinka.
Two new attractions will open in the new land. The first is a family-friendly roller coaster named Slinky Dog Dash. Its backstory is that Andy assembled it from his Mega Coaster Play Kit and topped it off with Slinky and Jessie. From the model that has been on display for several months over in the Walt Disney Presents attraction, it appears to be quite a long coaster ride.
Disney released a new photo of the Slinky Dog Dash coaster during a test run ahead of its opening this summer. Photo ©Disney.
Disney also released a time-lapse video of Slinky Dog Dash in motion during an early test run. Video ©Disney.
The other new attraction is the family-friendly Alien Swirling Saucers. Its backstory is that Andy won a galactic play set at Pizza Planet, and its little green aliens “swirl about in their flying saucers with guests in tow in their rocket ship toys.” All the while, “The Claw” hangs overhead. For readers that have been on or seen Mater's Junkyard Jamboree at Disney California Adventure, cast at Walt Disney Presents have described this ride as being the same sort of thing as that.
“Conveniently,” Toy Story Land has been built immediately adjacent to Toy Story Mania! which opened in 2008, and has been hugely popular ever since. In fact, the attraction was expanded with a third ride track over a year ago. When the new land opens, guests will now enter Toy Story Mania! from inside the new land rather than Pixar Place. Riders (“players”) will enter through a new carnival game box. In the meantime, as we have reported in recent Updates, parts of the attraction have been shut down for queue reconfiguration to accommodate the new entrance layout. It is possible the attraction could close entirely for some of the time between now and June 30 to complete that part of the construction. Keep an eye out for that in My Disney Experience, and we will notify you if we spot that too.
Disney released new detailed concept art of the new entrance guests will use to enter Toy Story Mania from inside Toy Story Land starting this summer. Image ©Disney.
Toy Story Land will also include a counter-service food and beverage location: Woody's Lunch Box. Themed to appear as Andy's lunch box set on its side, meals and old-fashioned soda floats will be its main walk-up window offerings.
“With set pieces, staging, attractions, and experiences, Toy Story Land represents the best of Walt Disney Imagineering’s collaboration with our storytelling partners at Pixar Animation Studios,” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “This new land will place guests inside the wondrous world of Woody, Buzz and their pals–and invite everyone to experience the joy of being a toy.”
Disney Parks also has Toy Story-themed lands at several of its overseas resorts. Walt Disney Studios Paris is home to Toy Story Playland, opened in 2010;Hong Kong Disneyland has Toy Story Land, which opened in 2011; and Shanghai Disneyland will open its Toy Story Land on April 26, 2018.
Epcot's The American Adventure Updated
As we covered last week, The American Adventure show closed for a brief refurbishment several weeks ago. Although the show had seen other minor changes and updates over the years, it is in essence a Day One attraction, dating back to the park's opening over 35 years ago, in October 1982.
The sign promoting The American Adventure show in the lobby appears to have been refreshed as well. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This week, the refurbished show opened, and it is visually stunning. The theater now has an all-digital projection system, a new screen, and new speakers. The digitized images are clearer than they have ever been; viewers can see details and color in the displayed art and photographs that were unclear using the older projection technology. Dialogue spoken by animatronic characters also seems clearer than ever (although, for my third viewing of the show, I sat in the last row and thought the audio was a bit muddled there in a way that it was not in other locations in the theater).
The new digital projection technology used in the show is so clear that it is possible to read the Declaration of Independence along with Thomas Jefferson. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
It is also now possible to see finer details in projected backdrops during the show. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Elon Musk, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Mark Zuckerberg are among the new additions to the montage saluting Americans relevant to its history. Some athletes and others shown in prior versions of the montage have been excluded from the new version. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The sunset behind the torch of the Statue of Liberty during the show finale is striking. The torch itself still appears as it did on the actual statue in 1982, rather than the updated look it has had since the statue's centennial celebration in 1986. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The montage sequence (that follows the Rosie the Riveter scene) has been updated with notable faces from America's recent history, and the “Golden Dream” song has been re-recorded by new vocal artists with an all-new orchestration. As always, the sign outside the attraction regularly displays the next showtime; all remaining daily shows are now also listed in the My Disney Experience App.
The sign outside The American Adventure shows the time of the next show. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Murata Cheerleaders Visit Epcot's SpectacuLab at Innoventions
Technology company muRata, a global designer, manufacturer, and supplier of electronic components, brought its Murata Cheerleaders to Epcot to kick off Engineers Week and promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education in schools. MuRata sponsors The SpectacuLab in Epcot's Innoventions pavilion, an interactive show done in collaboration with Science from Scientists, a nonprofit organization that also aims to improve STEM literacy in schools. We reported on The SpectacuLab after its opening last fall.
The robotic cheerleaders demonstrate several muRata created technologies, but, as its spokespeople noted several times, the robots are not for sale. The robots use internal gyroscopes to maintain stability, and use a number of different technologies to send and receive radio signals to act individually, to act in sync with each other, and to move without colliding into each other.
Murata Cheerleaders are robots created by muRata to demonstrate uses of several of the technologies developed by the company. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Representatives of muRata were at The SpectacuLab inside Innoventions yesterday to discuss the technology used by Murata Cheerleaders and how the robots are being used to promote Engineers Week and STEM: science, technology, engineering and math education. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Murata Cheerleaders visited Epcot on Sunday through to day to kick off Engineers Week. They will visit local Orlando-area schools later this week and continue to tour around the country. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
After visiting Epcot through today (Tuesday, February 20), the Murata Cheerleaders will visit local schools in the Orlando area and will be displayed in other schools around the country. The SpectacuLab continues its shows at Epcot daily according to its schedule on the Times Guide and My Disney Experience App.
The Disney Corner Opens at Disney Springs in Town Center
Walt Disney World touts the World of Disney store at Disney Springs as the world's largest Disney store. While it has begun a lengthy, multi-phase refurbishment, a new two-story temporary store next to the escalators to the Lime Garage has opened named The Disney Corner. It is open for a limited time, and at least right now, it focuses on merchandise for women and girls. The store includes toys, dolls, apparel, and (in the words of Disney Parks Blog) “accessories for princesses of all ages.”
The new two level store named “The Disney Corner” is located next to the escalators to the Lime Garage in Town Center at Disney Springs. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Disney Corner is open for a limited time as a shop for women and girls while the nearby World of Disney store undergoes a multi-phase refurbishment. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The eastern wings of the World of Disney store are currently closed for refurbishment. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Inside World of Disney, heavy black drapery blocks off areas undergoing refurbishment. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
We expect to see the lineup of merchandise available at The Disney Corner change as the refurbishment moves through the World of Disney Store. Like the former D-Living store that is now Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, we may even see the space change its theme and name from time to time. Stay tuned.
Epcot Concert News & Calendar
The final 2019 Disney on Broadway Concert Series concerts were performed yesterday. Next up, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival gets underway on February 28, and its Garden Rocks Concert Series kicks off at the America Gardens Theatre on March 2. Returning acts include Night Ranger (“Sister Christian”) which opens the series March 2-5, and The Spinners, known for “Working My Way Back To You,” the final Festival weekend May 25-28. Several new bands will perform at Epcot for the first time: Foghat (“Slow Ride”); Smash Mouth (“All Star”); Lonestar (“Amazed”); and Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles (“Hotel California”). Other bands new to the Garden Rocks series will be Rick Springfield (“Jessie’s Girl”), Survivor (“Eye of the Tiger”) and Jo Dee Messina (“Stand Beside Me”).
Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland were the final performers to take the stage during the Disney on Broadway Concert Series of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For the convenience of our readers, we list all of the performances in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. You can also add it to any Calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link.
The calendar is provided “As is, where is” and without any guarantees, as a courtesy. Given the effort it took to create it, we do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. We do not know why Walt Disney World Resort has not created this sort of functionality outside of the My Disney Experience app itself.
Ashley Brown, the original Broadway Mary Poppins, and Josh Strickland, the original Broadway Tarzan, sing “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” in one of the last Disney on Broadway Concert series shows at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts on Saturday, February 17, 2018. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Views Around the World
While I was all over Walt Disney World Resort this week, the photographic focus this week is mostly Epcot as it wrapped up the second Epcot International Festival of the Arts which ended yesterday, February 19, and as it simultaneously began visible preparations for the February 28 start of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. There are also a few tidbits of news and some new (at least to me) merchandise ahead too.
Epcot
It is time to bid farewell to the second Epcot International Festival of the Arts that concluded yesterday, February 19. Based on the large crowds, I do not believe I am alone in hoping for a third in 2019 (and more beyond that). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
As the Festival of Arts wrapped up, the actual spring colors of the park's permanent foliage began to match the Festival banners. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The pink flowers of the trees near France drop their petals regularly; the pink color will not be around very long. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Speaking of France pavilion, nearby construction is apparent around the area to become home to the new “Ratatouille” themed attraction. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
From another angle closer to International Gateway, some of the construction for the future “Ratatouille” themed attraction next to the France pavilion is apparent. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Flower beds now line the reflecting ponds in Future World East (last week, we showed you Future World West). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
As the Flower & Garden Festival approaches, new plantings seem to come to Future World each day. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Like the limited-time flowering trees near France pavilion, in Future World, the yellow flowering trees do not retain their yellow flowers very long. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Topiary installation continues around World Showcase ahead of the Flower & Garden Festival. The topiaries of the “Frozen” sisters are now installed just outside their meet and greet at Norway pavilion. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The troll topiary is also installed at Norway pavilion. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Next door, panda topiaries are back at China pavilion. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Speaking of China pavilion, a Disney PhotoPass photographer had a Mickey-head shaped, Chinese flag-inspired paddle available for photos this past weekend. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Continuing on to the outside of The American Adventure, the Woody topiary has been installed in its usual place. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Captain Hook and Peter Pan this year are on level ground at the United Kingdom pavilion. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Tinker Bell is also nearby, with some of the work of the “Fairy House Ladies,” the artists that regularly appear at both the Festival of the Arts and the Flower & Garden Festival. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Fairy House Ladies were back at this year's Festival of the Arts, and they will return to World Showcase a few times during the Flower & Garden Festival, beginning March 6-11. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
At Canada pavilion this year, rather than Bambi and friends topiaries, there are carved-wood bears on display. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Once again, back in Future World, you can see that the upper part of Odyssey building recently has been painted sky blue. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Near the park's entrance, a crane could be spotted parked behind (and towering above) The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
As we mentioned in the Writer's Note, there are several fun, new hats available at Mouse Gear. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Apparently, I am not the only one to use the term “Adulting.” Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Based on the new sign, Wild Africa Trek is now “Supported By” Otterbox (the company that makes smartphone cases, including some of those sold by D-Tech locations around Walt Disney World). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
A similar sign has been attached to the Wild Africa Trek sign in the unload area for Kilimanjaro Safaris. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
New Na'vi River Journey merchandise was available this week in Pandora-The World of Avatar. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Magic Kingdom area
Near the Magic Kingdom parking toll plaza, as the nearby World Drive flyover construction project intensifies, the Speedway gas station at the Auto Care Center has closed for refurbishment. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney Springs
From the Aerophile balloon (also still referred to as Characters in Flight), progress is visible at the site of the new parking structure being built across Buena Vista Drive from Disney Springs. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Frontera Cocina's exterior was painted this week with new graphics. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Dress Shop on Cherry Tree Lane inside the Marketplace Co-Op began selling a new Mary Poppins inspired dress and penguin purse this past week. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Cast Members in the Dress Shop say that the merchandise is also available at Disneyland Resort. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's BoardWalk
“Star Wars: The Last Jedi”-inspired ice cream flavors are available for a limited time at Ample Hills Creamery (next door to the ESPN Club). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This and That
…Congratulations to the team that created the thrilling new attraction that debuted in 2017 at Disney's Animal Kingdom: Avatar Flight of Passage in Pandora-The World of Avatar. The Visual Effects Society honored the attraction with the “Outstanding Visual Effects in a Special Venue Project” award. This is the second major industry award for the breakout star of the new land, having also been awarded a Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement: Attraction. As you can imagine, standby times typically are posted above 100 minutes during park operating hours, even on low attendance days; 165 minutes and above are still common.
The entrance to the queue of Avatar Flight of Passage is marked by a woven sculpture of a banshee. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka
…Disney Legend Paige O'Hara, voice of Belle from the animated version of Disney's Beauty and The Beast since 1991, appeared at Epcot during the final weekend of the Festival of Arts to showcase her Disney-inspired paintings. For guests who purchased a piece of her artwork, she was available to sign it as well.
Disney Legend Paige O'Hara was at Epcot on Friday to sign her Disney-inspired paintings purchased by guests at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
…Several top NFL Draft-eligible athletes were at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex last week, working out at the Tom Shaw Performance Camp. Shaw has a record of producing NFL stars, including 145 first round NFL draft choices, 10 number one picks, and 11 Super Bowl MVPs. Players come to the camp to try to learn to run faster, get stronger, increase endurance, and otherwise learn how to condition for a long professional football career.
…The “Passholder Extras” page of DisneyWorld.com quietly added that Passholders will be able to pick up a set of spring-themed Passholder magnets during the upcoming Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. From February 28 to April 8, a spring-themed Mickey Mouse Magnet will be available. Then, for the first time ever, from April 9 to May 28, there will be a Minnie Mouse magnet available. No further details have yet been posted about where to get them other than that, of course, you need to have your valid annual pass on hand to get them while supplies last. Personally, my holiday-themed AP magnet went on my refrigerator (and the one that just arrived in the mail because of my renewal is still on the card it came on) after my last two AP magnets were either stolen or knocked off my car when parked at Walt Disney World Resort.
…The “Passholder Extras” page of DisneyWorld.com also noted that the My Disney Experience App now allows Passholders that have already linked their pass to the App to renew the pass within the app by selecting “My Tickets” and then choosing not only the pass you wish to renew, but the type of pass you would like to have in the coming year (which, we assume, means either an upgrade or downgrade between tiers and available options). The renewed pass will then be automatically added to the account, allowing continued use of your current MagicBand or card. Note, of course, that renewal passes are good for one year that begins upon the expiration of your prior pass.
…Last week, we noted that a new rule is coming into effect for the various Disney Vacation Club “Membership Extras” benefits (like certain vacation options, discounts, and even events like Moonlight Magic, to name just a few) where Members must show their Disney Vacation Club Membership Card in order to participate. Specifically, effective February 25, 2018, to even obtain a Disney Vacation Club Membership Card, according to the DVC website, “Members must accumulate a total of at least 75 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.”
Searching around the Member Dashboard, we found qualifying language that says “All Members who are eligible for Membership Extras as of February 24 will not be impacted by the 75-Vacation Point requirement, as long as they continue to meet the previously implemented eligibility requirements.” Disney and Concierge Collections options remain unavailable for ownership interests not purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. after March 21, 2011, and, effective April 4, 2016, Members who have not purchased an ownership interest directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. do not have access to Membership Extras.
…Enzo's Hideaway Tunnel Bar, Maria & Enzo's Ristorante, and The Edison currently are offering Passholder, Disney Vacation Club, and Cast Member discounts at lunch only. Tables in Wonderland discounts are available at all meals. If discounts are important to your dining decision, as always, it is wise to call ahead, as locations change their policies, sometimes with little fanfare.
Maria and Enzo's Ristorante is one of the new restaurants opened by Patina Restaurant Group in The Landing neighborhood of Disney Springs. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
…Last week, February 12-16, TV's Wheel of Fortune broadcast episodes recorded at Epcot back in October. As you may recall, I was invited to attend the episodes scheduled to air February 12 and 13, and was finally able to share some additional photos on our social media. They are gathered together below.
I was invited to take photos at the recording of the “Wheel of Fortune” episode scheduled to air February 13. This is our behind the scenes look, now that the show has aired. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
…Repeating from last week: Looking ahead to March, Raglan Road St. Patrick's Festival brings three days of “non-stop live Irish music, family fun and late-night revelry” to Disney Springs with eight award-winning bands on the pub's Grand Room and Patio stages from March 16-18. The Raglan Road Irish Dancers will also perform throughout the Festival. On March 17, St. Patrick's Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first served basis with a $10 cover charge for guests 18-and-older. Reservations can be booked for the other Festival Dates by calling (407)938-0300.
And, finally, the back of the Hat at MouseGear. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
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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.
2018 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom – March 1 & 8.
- 10th Anniversary Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 22–25, 2018.
- MouseAdventure (unofficial event) – March 3, 2018. See mouseadventure.com for more information.
- 25th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – February 28 – May 28, 2018
- Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side Weekend – April 19 – 22, 2018.
- Dapper Day – Magic Kingdom: April 28, 2018; Epcot: April 29, 2018; Park TBD: November 27-18, 2018
- Star Wars: Galactic Nights event at Disney's Hollywood Studios – May 27, 2018
- Gay Days at Walt Disney World 2018 (“#RedShirtDays” – unofficial events) – Disney's Animal Kingdom: May 31;
Disney's Hollywood Studios: June 1; Magic Kingdom: June 2; Epcot: June 3 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom – TBA
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 1-4, 2018
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – TBA
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic – October 26-27, 2018
–Sunday Bubbles Brunch – October 28, 2018. - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom – TBA
- Holidays at Walt Disney World – TBA
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – TBA
- Candlelight Processional at Epcot – TBA
2019 Resort Events
| If you participate in (or are considering signing up for) runDisney events, visit our Team MousePlanet forum on the MousePad discussion board, where you can join our community of health-minded readers and staff. For current information on runDisney registration dates and capacity, see Lorree Tachell's runDisney Race Capacity Updates in the Team MousePlanet forum on our MousePad discussion board. |
2018 Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic Events (Including Event Reservation Opening Dates)
- Moonlight Magic at Disney's Animal Kingdom – March 21; April 17; May 16, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: February 8, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): February 22, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon – May 30; June 11, 2018.
Members with Resort Reservations: April 19, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): May 3, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Epcot – July 16; August 15, 2018 (note date change!)
Members with Resort Reservations: June 6, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): June 20, 2018 - Moonlight Magic at Disney's Hollywood Studios – September 19 & 26; October 3, 2018
Members with Resort Reservations: August 30, 2018
All Members (pending remaining availability): September 13, 2018
| Introduced in 2017 as part of Membership Magic Ever After, complimentary Moonlight Magic events invite Disney Vacation Club Members (that are eligible for the Membership Extras benefits) and their guests to visit Disney Parks at the end of their regular operating hours and after the park has closed to the public. Members (and their parties) with reservations find shorter-than-usual wait times on popular attractions, meet rare characters, enjoy complimentary refreshments, have dance parties, and more. Please note that, in order to allow as many Members as possible to enjoy Moonlight Magic, only one event date for each participating park is available per Membership. Visit disneyvacationclub.com during specified reservation windows to (attempt to) secure access to the event as well as to find additions to the Moonlight Magic event slate, updated party hours, and transportation information. As a bonus for reading this far, DVC Members looking to make reservations for Moonlight Magic at Disney's Animal Kingdom may notice that we have provided a jump link to the reservations page (the dates reservations open will take you to the appropriate page; Members with reservations need to have their reservations number handy; all Members will need their DVC ID number handy. |
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.
Magic Kingdom
- Pirates of the Caribbean – will close for refurbishment scheduled from late February through mid-March 2018.
- Liberty Square Riverboat – closed for refurbishment.
- Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as “available seasonally throughout the year.”
Epcot
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Closed August 13, 2017
Guardians of the Galaxy-themed attraction in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – closed February 3, 2018. Theater to be repurposed.
“Circle of Life” had its final showing at 7 p.m. on February 3, 2018. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- The Great Movie Ride – Closed August 13, 2017.
Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway attraction to open in Chinese Theatre at a date to be announced.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Flights of Wonder (Caravan Stage) – Show Closed on December 31, 2017.
New show starring Russell and Dug from “Up” and their bird friends coming in Spring 2018
Blizzard Beach
- No known closures at this time.
Typhoon Lagoon
- Seasonal Refurbishment scheduled to end March 18, 2018.
Disney Springs
- World of Disney – phased store closings for refurbishment underway.
The Disney Corner opening in Town Center in mid-February to offer select merchandise during refurbishment. - DisneyQuest – Closed as of July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience expected to open Summer 2019. - Portobello Country Italian Trattoria – Closed April 24, 2017.
Terralina Crafted Italian expected to open in 2018. - 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 is being transformed into Jaleo, a restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine, expected to open 2018.
A new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is under construction next door to the Coca-Cola Store, expected to open 2018.
Wolfgang Puck Express continues to operate in its existing location in the Marketplace.
New steelwork has been installed along the lake side of the future site of Jaleo. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
A foundation has been poured for the new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Resorts
- Caribbean Beach – Centertown, the resort's marketplace, will be expanded with new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in Summer 2018, with the overall project completed 2019-20. Due to the work, the following food service and retail locations are currently closed:
- Old Port Royale Food Court
- Shutters at Old Port Royale
- Banana Cabana Pool Bar
- Calypso Trading Post
- Coronado Springs – A new 15-story tower overlooking Lago Dorado, the resort's central lake, will add 500 rooms featuring suites and concierge level services, and a rooftop dining facility that will include panoramic views of nighttime fireworks shows at the Theme Parks. The resort also plans to refurbish current resort rooms and transform some of its landscape. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20.
Current Discounts & 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.
In fact, although Get Away Today does not know how long they will be able to continue selling tickets at the prices on its website today, now is a great time to check out the discounts available at the site. 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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Travel Discounts for Everyone |
Characters in Flight Tethered Balloon Ride by Aerophile For a limited time, Groupon is selling individual rides for $11.50 and two person rides for $23. The Groupon certificate cannot be redeemed until 24 hours after purchase, is valid for 90 days, but only on flights from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. (weather permitting). This offer was still available last night (February 19), but could end at any time. 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. |
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Travel Discounts for Annual Passholders |
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (also excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity). 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% discounts off regularly priced 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. Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” is continuing to honor its $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 with the updated code as of February 19, 2018. 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. Additional information about available “Passholder Extras” are available here, including a discount of $30 on tickets to one of the remaining Disney After Hours events at Magic Kingdom, a new $35 Sunrise 9 golf offer (including 9 holes of golf, a hot breakfast and 2 beverages between 7 and 8:30 a.m., subject to availability at Disney Golf courses), a new $29 Sunset 9 golf offer (including 9 holes of golf, a light snack and a beer or soft drink, subject to availability in the late afternoon at Disney Golf courses), an Orlando Magic Jersey Offer for purchasing or renewing an Annual Pass at Amway Center in Orlando, a 15% discount on the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Spa & Salon Discounts around Walt Disney World Resort, Amphicar Tour discounts at Disney Springs, runDisney Early Registration discounts, Best Friends Pat Care discounts, Children's Activity Centers discounts, and more. It currently also includes an opportunity to enjoy exclusive access to game-day suites on Passholder Suite Day when the Atlanta Braves take on the St. Louis Cardinals on March 17, 2018 (1:05 p.m. game time) at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – packages includes a full ballpark buffet (one hour prior to scheduled first pitch), admission to the game and the opportunity for kids to run the bases after the event (and there is an optional add-on opportunity to step on to the field before the game to watch batting practice): Space is limited, call (407)939-GAME for prices and to reserve your package. Away from the Resort, Passholders can use code DANCEPARTY to get 20% off of tickets to the new Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour in Jacksonville, Melbourne, Clearwater, and Sarasota Florida, for house seats while supplies last. Visit disneyjuniortour.com for more information and tickets. Very far away from the Resort, Passholders staying 3 or more consecutive nights at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, can save up to 30% for rooms booked most nights from April 2 through June 7, 2018. Reservations must be made by May 9, 2018. The Passholder must present the annual pass at check-in and must stay in a room on the reservation. (Also applies to Disneyland Resort annual passholders.) If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders |
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 does not apply to the following dates: 12/31/17, 1/1/18, 2/14/18, 4/1/18, 5/13/18 and 7/4/18, and 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:
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Epcot Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards 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 MyDisneyExperience App (or website). Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards 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 MyDisneyExperience App (or website). |
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Travel Discounts for Military Personnel |
2018 Armed Forces Salute Tickets January 1 through December 19, 2018
NOTE: Tickets must be used by December 19, 2018. U.S. Military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98.00 through December 19. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by Eligible Service Members (as defined on Disney World.com) 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). U.S. Military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2018, for stays most nights from January 1 through March 24, 2018, and April 6 through December 19, 2018. Offer excludes moderate and deluxe resorts. Call(407)939-5684 for information and reservations. 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! |
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Travel Discounts for Florida Residents |
Discover Disney TicketsFlorida Resident Discover Disney Tickets are back: $159/person plus tax for the Discover Disney 3-Day Ticket; $179/person plus tax for the Discover Disney 4-Day Ticket. Tickets must be purchased by June 20 and may be used on any day until June 24, 2018. Park Hopper Option is available for an additional $30/ticket plus tax for the 3-Day Ticket; $37.50/ticket for the 4-Day Ticket. Further information is available and tickets may be purchased on this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Select TicketsAt a higher price, but with a whole lot more flexibility that came along with the price increases of February 11, 2018, Florida Residents can also save with the 4-Day Disney Select Ticket (compared to the price of a 4-Day Magic Your Way ticket). There is a smaller discount for a 3-Day Select Ticket, and there is also a discount for 1–Day Tickets with the Park Hopper Option only. For more information visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Spring into 2018 rates for Florida Residents are available for most nights through April 14, 2018. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for information or call(407)939-2752. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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Travel Discounts for Canada Residents |
All adult Guests who will use Canadian resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canadian 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. 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! |
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Travel Discounts for U.K. Residents |
The website GetWestLondon.co.uk has an updated list of some of the offers available to folks planning ahead to holiday at Walt Disney World Resort from the United Kingdom. You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. It currently includes an offer for a 14-day ticket for the price of a 7-day ticket and up to four free resort nights on a two-week holiday (valid most school holidays) when booked by 28th March. Package includes Memory Maker and is valid for residents of the U.K. and Ireland only. On select arrivals for stays at Disney Hotels, guests also receive a $100 US Disney Gift Card. If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details! |
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