Walt Disney World Resort Update for June 11-17, 2019
Writer's note: This week, I had the privilege of attending the press junket for Disney-Pixar's Toy Story 4, which will be released in theaters on June 21. As part of the junket, I had an opportunity to screen the film (which I thoroughly enjoyed), attend an after-hours party in Toy Story Land, and to attend press conferences with Producers Mark Nielsen and Jonas Rivera, Director Josh Cooley, Christina Hendricks (voice of “Gabby Gabby”), Tim Allen (voice of “Buzz Lightyear”), Keanu Reeves (voice of “Duke Caboom”), Annie Potts (voice of “Bo Peep”), Tom Hanks (voice of “Woody”), and Tony Hale (voice of “Forky”). I am not yet allowed to share a full review of the film, but when I am, it will appear as a separate article here on MousePlanet.
The “Toy Story 4” Press Junket included two press conferences. The first featured Producers Mark Nielsen and Jonas Rivera, Director Josh Cooley, Christina Hendricks, Tim Allen, and Keanu Reeves. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The second panel featured the producers and director joined by Annie Potts, Tom Hanks, and Tony Hale. I had the opportunity to ask Tom Hanks about his emotional performance of Woody's final scene in the film. (It is spoiler free, particularly, because you know by now that Pixar movies have emotional scenes.) Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
I also attended a media event that included the new Disney Villains After Hours event at Magic Kingdom. More detailed information about that is in the News and Views. For folks interested in Florida Resident Discounts, some new ones were announced last week and are included in the appropriate tab of the Discounts section below.
News and Views
Headlines are auto-generated here
Conservation Station to Reopen July 11 With New Animation Experience
The Conservation Station at Disney's Animal Kingdom, including Rafiki's Planet Watch, Affection Section, and the Wildlife Express Train, will reopen to guests on July 11. There was some concern last year when Conservation Station closed that the attractions in this part of the park would not reopen, but earlier this year the park announced that it would reopen this summer.
Yesterday, Disney Parks Blog announced that when Conservation Station reopens, it will add a brand-new activity, The Animation Experience. Continuing the park's celebration of Disney's The Lion King, the new experience is “inspired by Walt Disney's own passion for ensuring his animators could develop realistic characters and settings by spending time with animals.” Guests will learn about some of the park's animals then have the chance to create a personalized piece of Disney art through an instructor-led animation class. Favorite characters from The Lion King will be the stars of The Animation Experience, as guests learn to draw Simba, Zazu, Pumbaa, Timon, and more. Each session will be different, and FastPass+ reservations are now available.
For more than 60 years, animals have been a part of Disney storytelling. Photo ©Disney.
The theme parks have not had a regularly-offered opportunity to learn to animate characters since the Animation building at Disney's Hollywood Studios became Star Wars Launch Bay back in 2015.
Disney Villains After Hours Events Run Weekly at Magic Kingdom Through August 8
Disney Villains After Hours, the latest version of a Disney After Hours hard ticket event, debuted at Magic Kingdom last Thursday night and Disney invited us to a media event that included experiencing the event. The limited access event runs weekly on Thursdays (except July 4; that week it will run Monday, July 1) through August 8, and Disney Parks Blog reported that the inaugural event sold out.
Disney concept art featuring the “Villains Unite the Night” stage show promotes the Disney Villains After Hours Event. ©Disney.
Lighting around the park was themed to the Disney Villains After Hours Event. Panoramic Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney Villains After Hours offers its attendees the opportunity to mix in the park as early as 7 p.m. on an event night and then enjoy low to no wait times for at least 20 park attractions from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. Like the other After Hours Events, attendees can enjoy complimentary popcorn, ice cream novelties, and select bottled beverages during the event hours. Disney Villains After Hours events adds to the “After Hours” event offerings with live entertainment, a DJ-hosted dance party, attraction overlays, photo opportunities, and event-exclusive opportunities to buy specialty merchandise, food and beverages. As disclosed in advance, the event does not include villain meet and greet opportunities; nevertheless, that has been the complaint most heard on social media and from some attendees.
Of the additions, I most enjoyed seeing Maleficent the Dragon parade float from the daytime Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade making its way through the park breathing fire at night. The Event Guide showed Maleficent at Night scheduled at 10:40 p.m., 11:45 p.m. and 1:20 a.m. (Attendees should check the Guide for the particular schedule and route because, at least on opening night, the first two showings were scheduled to start and end in Frontierland with a loop around the Central Plaza Hub; the final performance was scheduled to begin in Frontierland and then continue all the way up Main Street U.S.A. to the parade doors.)
A highlight of the Disney Villains After Hours event is seeing Maleficent breathe fire along the parade route from time to time during the night. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Maleficent at Night features the dragon breathing fire through Liberty Square several times during Disney Villains After Hours events. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
The new Villains Unite the Night stage show, clocks in at over 20 minutes, starring Hades and Meg from Hercules with appearances by Jafar, The Queen, Dr. Facilier, and Maleficent. It is a nice addition to an After Hours Event in concept, but, in my opinion, the show is a bit too long and repetitive especially for a three hour event. Certainly on the upside, with attendance capped at a lower level than hard ticket Halloween and Christmas parties, it is much easier to get a good view without having to use the precious event time to save a viewing spot long before the show. The show itself is visually impressive, making good use of digital projections on the castle to provide a more villainous backdrop. Likewise, the cast performances are strong and, indeed, unlike some castle shows, several performers speak their parts live (rather than lip-syncing to recordings), which is a great touch.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Villains Unite the Night is exclusively presented during Disney Villains After Hours events. This is the entire show. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Like last year's Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, for Disney Villains After Hours, Pirates of the Caribbean added a live pirate to the queue and to the ride itself. Over at Space Mountain, guests again have the opportunity to ride in almost complete darkness during the event. To my ear, the soundtrack on the ride was tailored to Disney Villains more specifically than we heard during Halloween last year, which was also a nice change.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
You may recall that Disney previously invited us to experience Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom last July (we wrote about it here), and the debut versions at both Disney's Animal Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios back in December (we wrote about those experiences here). When Disney announced the Disney Villains After Hours event, I personally bought a ticket to attend the debut event before Disney invited media to attend. I will be returning to the event later this summer using the ticket I purchased and will report a more personal take on the night after that visit. Until then, I reiterate what I have said about the prior After Hours Events:
they are specifically NOT at a price-point designed or intended for everyone. As someone who has a very limited amount of time in Central Florida, like a business traveler attending a conference, you might think of a night of Disney After Hours like an evening at a concert, theater, or sports event from a price standpoint. For a parks fanatic, someone who wants to ride and re-ride attractions or spend a lot of time with characters, this can also be a special treat kind of experience. In sum, for those that have planned their visits to Walt Disney World Resort with FastPass+ reservations, with multi-day tickets (or Annual Passes), Disney After Hours retains only its unique aspect: do you want that Disney PhotoPass photo of you alone (or as a couple or family) on a Pirates of the Caribbean boat? Would you like to have Main Street U.S.A. mostly to yourself? Those are all pretty “cool” opportunities that this event can provide. If you hate crowds and hate lines, these events may be just what you have been hoping to find. For Disney Resort Guests, there are times of the year that Extra Magic Hours may provide a similar experience without additional cost (except for the food and beverages).
Whether what Disney Villains After Hours events adds to that when figuring in its additional price depends upon how you view its enhancements and whether you are a guest who likes seeking out and buying exclusive specialty merchandise, food and beverage. Indeed, Disney Parks Blog announced that the Thursday, June 13 event, will be guests' first opportunity to purchase new Magic Mirror Metallic merchandise (though the entire collection will debut to the public the next day, June 14). If you are someone that wants to get up close with Disney Villains, this event lets you see Maleficent the Dragon up close a few times, and see some more on stage, but there are no meet and greets for you; Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the only place that consistently offers those opportunities, but those lower-priced events have a higher capped attendance level.
Special themed food and beverage offerings and merchandise was available for sale around the park exclusively during the event. Event Guide ©Disney.
Disney displayed the specialty food and beverage offerings at the media event held before the first Disney Villains After Hours event. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Exclusive event merchandise available for purchase at Disney Villains After Hours events was also shown to media. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Several Disney Villains say goodnight to guests as the Disney Villains After Hours event winds down its final hour. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
For more information on Disney Villains After Hours and to purchase your tickets, visit DisneyWorld.com/VillainsAfterHours or call the Disney Reservation Center at (407)939-2742. Disney Villains After Hours tickets cost $139 plus tax in advance and $144 plus tax on the event night. Annual Passholder and Disney Vacation Club Members can take advantage of a $30 discount and purchase tickets for $109 plus tax.
Disney Musicals in Schools Program Supports Central Florida Schools
On May 29, dozens of local Central Florida elementary school students took to the stage and stepped into the spotlight as part of the grand finale act of the 2018-2019 schoolyear's Disney Musical in Schools program, held at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando, Florida. The students recently completed a 17-week immersive program, designed by Disney Theatrical Group, that encourages youth to embrace their passion for musical theatre and explore their artistic expression.
The program is made possible in Central Florida through a $50,000 grant from Walt Disney World Resort to Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, who partner together to bring this unique and immersive arts experience to local children. The experience culminated in a special finale performance at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, where students had the opportunity to perform their favorite number from their school's production on a Broadway-caliber stage in front of a cheering crowd of their family and friends.
“Our vision is Arts for Every Life and through collaborative programs like Disney Musicals in Schools we fulfill that mission by creating access to the arts for elementary students right in their schools,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “Together with the students and teachers, our teaching artists and partners like Disney help us to produce this remarkable grand finale event.”
For more than four decades, Walt Disney World Resort has helped to foster and strengthen the local Central Florida arts community by supporting various organizations that bring unique art and theater experiences to children and families. Disney Musicals in Schools has reached nearly 20 Central Florida elementary schools since its introduction to Central Florida in 2016.
Epcot Concerts & Candlelight Processional News and Calendar
Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! returns to the America Gardens stage on Friday with multiple daily performances through August 18. Star-Lord and Gamora along with an “alien” band will take the audience on a “musical journey” that showcases hits from Star-Lord's Awesome Mix tapes. Check the Times Guide and the My Disney Experience app for the daily schedule.
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.
Repeating from last week, Disney Parks Blog announced the first four returning Celebrity Narrators for this year's edition of Candlelight Processional: Whoopi Goldberg (12/6-7), Pat Sajak (12/16-8), Steven Curtis Chapman (12/22-4), and Edward James Olmos (12/25-6). Held at the America Gardens Theatre, the Candlelight Processional combines a live orchestra, massed choir and celebrity narrator in the retelling of the traditional Christmas story three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays (November 29-December 30). Guaranteed seating is available by booking a breakfast, lunch or dinner Candlelight Processional Dining Package at select Epcot eateries. Availability is limited and advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. Bookings for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages will begin on July 3. EpcotHolidays.com is the page where you can find Festival information and Candlelight Processional Dining Packages starting July 3 (or call 407-WDW-DINE).
As Labor Day weekend approaches, this year's edition of the 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). It runs a record 87 days this year, through November 23, but the three-times-nightly Eat to the Beat Concert Series will only run until November 19. This year, showtimes on Sundays through Thursdays will be the usual 5:30 P.M., 6:45 P.M., and 8:00 P.M., while on Fridays and Saturdays, the showtimes shift an hour later to 6:30 P.M., 7:45 P.M., and 9 P.M. The Concert Series wraps up on November 19 (before the Festival's end) to allow the America Gardens stage to be prepared for the 2019 edition of Epcot's Candlelight Processional.
For the convenience of our readers, all of the scheduled Eat to the Beat Concert Series performers and announced Celebrity Narrators for Candlelight Processional at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. All of the Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! dates are noted as well. 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.
While our Google Calendar of Epcot Events lists announced 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 any last minute changes. The calendar is provided as a courtesy “as is, where is” without any guarantees. 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
While most of the views this week are in the Disney Villains After Hours event discussion above, we have a few more to share around the World. The newest views around Disney Springs are included in the Disney Springs news section.
Magic Kingdom
From the California Grill atop Disney's Contemporary Resort, the scope of the vertical construction of the TRON-themed roller coaster next to Space Mount is apparent. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
This and That…
…With Disney-Pixar's Toy Story 4 being released on June 21, we learned this week that Disney planted some Pixar “Easter Eggs” in the Google Street View of Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios. There are eight of them that were hidden throughout the land on the day they were captured—have you spotted them? Let us know in the comments to this Update's post on Facebook or below. We'll provide a list of correct responses later this month! For those of you that would just rather go shopping for Toy Story 4 merchandise at the park, Disney Parks Blog has a look at many of the items available around the Resort, including those in the new pop-up merchandise location just off the exit hallway inside Toy Story Mania!
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
…Last week we reported that D23: The Official Disney Fan Club announced that this year's D23 Expo in Anaheim, California will include more information about the future of the reimagination of Epcot. This week, D23 released more of the schedule for the three day long convention, highlighted by: August 23, Disney Legends Award Ceremony in the morning and a first look at Disney+ (the new Disney streaming service coming in November) in the afternoon; August 24, The Walt Disney Studios presentation at its upcoming films (both live action and animation, from Disney, Pixar, Marvel to LucasFilm); August 25, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products' Chairman Bob Chapek will discuss what's new and what's next for the resorts around the world. Single-day tickets are still available for August 23 and 25 only. Visit D23Expo.com for more information and tickets.
…Walt Disney World Golf has introduced a limited run of custom-designed, Mickey Mouse inspired driver head covers featuring “Swinging Mickey” and the 1971 Walt Disney World Golf logo in time for Father's Day. For more information, see Walt Disney World Golf Blog. Walt Disney World Golf has also introduced a new Golf Membership program for Disney Vacation Club Members. We have provided the details below in the Discounts section under the DVC tab.
…REMINDER: Give Kids the World Village has announced its next two speaker series events featuring legendary Disney Cast Members and Voice Actors. On Disneyland's 64th anniversary, July 17, Disney veterans Tom Nabbe, Bill Sullivan and Bill Hoelscher will share stories of their fabled careers, stretching from the Disneyland's launch to the opening of Walt Disney World. On August 3, Paige O'Hara, voice of Belle from Beauty and the Beast, and Linda Larkin, voice of Jasmine from Aladdin, will share stories of the magic behind the scenes of these loved Disney characters. Details:
- Doors open at 6:30 p.m. at Give Kids The World Village, 210 S Bass Road, Kissimmee, FL 34746
- July 17: Legendary Disney Cast Members: General Seating $35; Preferred Seating $50
- August 3: Disney Voice Actors O'Hara & Larkin: General $50; Preferred $75; VIP Package $150
Advanced ticket sales are now available for the July 17 event on this eventbrite.com webpage. Advanced sales tickets are available for the August 3 event on this eventbrite.com webpage. For more information about these and other GKTW events, visit GKTW.org. Since 1986, Give Kids The World Village has welcomed more than 165,000 families to its 84-acre “storybook” resort in Central Florida. Children with critical illnesses and their families are treated to weeklong, cost-free vacations, complete with accommodations, donated attraction tickets, meals and more.
…Disney Cruise Line announced its Fall 2020 itineraries and sail dates, including its Halloween on the High Seas Cruises and Very Merrytime Cruises, with departures from New York, Florida and Texas. See the itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line website. Booking opens for the public on June 13; Disney Vacation Club Members have an advanced booking window on June 12, and others may have other early booking privileges too.
…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.
|
||
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.
NEW While folks attending the hard ticket June 13 Disney Villains After Hours event will have the first opportunity to purchase Magic Mirror Metallic merchandise at Magic Kingdom (as noted above), Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will have an exclusive V.I.Passholder Exclusive Shopping Opportunity on Friday, June 14 from 9 to 10 a.m. at World of Disney store at Disney Springs to purchase both Imagination pink and Magic Mirror Metallic merchandise. Passholders can get the 20% Passholder discount for purchases during the event. All guests can purchase the collections starting at 10 a.m. For a look at some of the items, check out Disney Parks Blog, which is also showing off breakfast at The Daily Poutine and some treats coming to The Ganachery and select churros carts on June 15.
NEW Views Around Disney Springs
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Raglan Road
Raglan Road recently welcomed its new Irish executive chef, Mark O'Neill. He previously worked with some of Europe's top chefs in several Michelin-Star restaurants. In Raglan Road's most recent newsletter, he shared a bit of his vision for the venue: “I'd like to do really great gastro-pub food, to have our team creating really nicely executed dishes like we have back home in Ireland. We'll be developing fresh, made-from-scratch food that's vibrant to the palate. It's important that we stay in front of the modern Irish food trend and keep our guests excited about great new dishes on the menu.”
Strings & Things, the Irish Folk/Trad crossover four-piece band from Tipperary and Galway returns in mid-June for a yearlong residency. The band last performed at Raglan Road from June through September last year and during the pub's Great Irish Hooley.
Bongo's Cuban Café
Orlando Sentinel reported that the restaurant will close in August and quotes its owner, Cuban-American pop icon Gloria Estafan as saying as its twenty-two year lease draws to an end this summer, “They are growing in a different direction, and we are growing in a different direction.” Gloria and her husband and business partner, Emilio Estefan, announced that they will open a new restaurant, Estefan Kitchen at the Margaritaville Orlando Resort.
Bongo's will close its West Side restaurant and shop in August. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka
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.
Terralina Crafted Italian
For Father's Day, June 16, Terralina's menu will include braised osso Bucco in a rich spicy tomato and fennel ragu ($34).
Paddlefish
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.
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.
►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
The Edison
The Edison at Disney Springs is hosting “Havana Nights” beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays: June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21, September 4, September 18, October 2, and October 16. The no additional charge nights feature a five piece band from 8 p.m. to midnight (trading the spotlight with a DJ from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.) playing Latin renditions of musical styles from instrumentals to pop. Complimentary salsa lessons will be available at any skill level, 7:30-11:30 p.m. and Havana-inspired specialty craft cocktails will be available to order during the entire night.
Parking Update
Following the recent opening of the Grapefruit Garage, the upgraded system notifying drivers of parking space availability in the Orange Garage appears complete. The newly-installed signs at parking entrances separately note available medical parking by level in addition to general parking. File photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Join Our Networks
On Facebook:
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)
…Disney Villains at Magic Kingdom- June 13, 20 & 27
- July 1, 11, 18 & 25
- August 1 & 8
…at Disney's Hollywood Studios (including two “special” events):
- June 14, 21 & 28
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom:
- June 4, 11 & 18
- Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic:(registration required)
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom- July 18, August 8 & 22, 2019
- Registration filled for Members with Resort Reservations
- 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
- 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) - Dapper Days at Walt Disney World (Unofficial Events) – November 16-17, 2019
- 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
- Star Wars Rival Run Weekend – April 16-19, 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 accommodate TRON construction (reopening to be announced). Guests can visit a Walt Disney World Railroad train at Main Street Station.
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 showing was April 30, 2019
Wonderful World of Animation (projection show) debuted 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 Spring 2020.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Rivers of Light: We Are One – an update to the nighttime show debuted Memorial Day Weekend
- Conservation Station – Rafiki's Planet Watch – Wildlife Express Train – Closed – announced reopening July 11
Disney Water Parks
- No known closures.
Disney Springs
- Bongo's Cuban Café– Closing in August 2019.
- 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 with a new Beauty & The Beast theme.
- 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
- Disney's Palm Golf Course – closed for refurbishment June 3-13, 2019.
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.
Just click the category you want to expand (or close).
For Everyone
Summer One World Ticket
Through August 23, you can purchase the Summer One World Ticket on DisneyWorld.com or from authorized ticket sellers including travel professionals. For $444/person plus tax, it provides one admission to each of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks and to each of the two water parks. It can be used on any days through August 28, 2019, but, unlike “Hopper” tickets, it allows only one admission to each park. If you would like to visit more than one park on the same day, that would use each park you visit's admission on that same day. The ticket does not provide admission to separately ticketed park events.
4-Park Magic Tickets
Earlier this year, 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. To purchase, call (407)939-7646 or visit this page of DisneyWorld.com
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.
Enchanting Summer Room Offer
Save up to 25% for stays most nights in Deluxe Villas and Resorts and Moderate Resorts, or up to 15% for stays most nights in Value Resorts from May 28 through August 28, 2019 when you book through August 28, 2019.
When booking for arrivals between May 28 and June 30, 2019, guests also receive a Disney Gift Card at check-in for a daily amount per room night based upon Resort Category:
- Deluxe Villas: $25 per room per night
- Deluxe Resorts: $20 per room per night
- Moderate Resorts: $15 per room per night
- Value Resorts: $10 per room per night
The Enchanting Summer Room Offer varies by resort category and the savings depend upon dates which may also have length of stay requirements. The savings is based on the non-discounted price for the same room. In addition to the link, you can call (407)939-7534 for more information and availability, or you can contact your travel agent.
More offers may be available at DisneyWorld.com/save
.
Quick Service Meal Vacation Package Offer
If you are considering a Walt Disney World Vacation Package that includes a room for four nights at select Moderate or Value Resorts and a 5-day theme park ticket, you can receive one free quick-service meal per person in your party (ages 3 and up) for each night of your stay at more than 90 quick-service dining locations around Walt Disney World Resort when you buy the otherwise non-discounted Walt Disney World Travel Co. package. Offer excludes campsites, Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney's All-Star Movies Resort and The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort. Meals include soft drinks; at many locations, adults 21 and over may opt for certain alcoholic beverages included in the offer. Children ages 3-9 must order from children's menus where applicable.
Packages for other lengths of stay may also be available. Read more information and check availability this page of DisneyWorld.com, or call (407)939-2745 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. |
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
Expect to be required to show proof of Florida Residency for discounts and benefits. |
NEW Get Your Ears On Ticket
This special ticket provides Florida Residents (with proof of residency) 3- and 4-day park ticket options for as low as $55 per day (plus tax) for the 4-day ticket (total price $219 plus tax) and is available through August 25, 2019, and can be used any three or four days, depending on ticket purchased, through August 28, 2019. There are no block out dates.
3-Day Get Your Ears On Ticket
$199 (plus tax) – Less than $67 per day (plus tax)
4-Day Get Your Ears On Ticket
$219 (plus tax) – Less than $55 per day (plus tax)
The Get Your Ears On tickets include admission to one theme park each day. They do not include park hopping, water parks or any separately ticketed park events. Upgrade options are available. More information and tickets can be purchased at this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket
Walt Disney World Resort continues to offer other Florida resident discount ticket programs. 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.
NEW Resort Offers
Florida residents can save up to 35 percent on rooms at select Disney resort hotels for stays most nights now through June 30, 2019, when you book through June 30, 2019, with the Florida Resident Sun & Fun Offer.
Florida residents can also save up to 30 percent on rooms at select Disney resort hotels for stays most nights July 1 through August 28, 2019, when you book through August 28, 2019, with the Florida Resident Summer Offer.
Other Florida Resident Offers
For special tickets, passes and offers available to Florida Residents, visit 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.
Call DVC Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to take advantage of most offers.
NEW Walt Disney World Golf now offers a Golf Membership program, exclusively for eligible Disney Vacation Club Members as a part of Membership Magic benefits.
For $99, plus tax, per year, the program provides:
- Specially priced rounds of golf at Walt Disney World Golf courses throughout the year. These will be available at an average additional savings of $15, in addition to already discounted green fees as a Disney Vacation Club Member.
- A special-edition Callaway DVC Member logo golf shirt
- Access to special DVC Member-only events throughout the year
- Access to special DVC instructional programs with PGA of America golf professionals.
- A companion pass for 1 DVC clinic, when paying for a clinic session
- A FootGolf pass for 2 players, one round for each player
- One complimentary round at Disney's Oak Trail golf course
- One guest pass for a free round of 9 holes, when purchasing a 9-hole round (Certain terms apply)
The included benefits represent $199 in total value. For more information, call (407)WDW-GOLF or (407) 939-4653. Be sure to mention that you are a DVC Member when you call.
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
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.
Share, Links, Comments & More
/* First collapse sections that are to be closed on page load */
var y = document.getElementsByClassName("content");
var i;
for (i = 0; i < y.length; i++) {
y[i].style.display = "none";
}
var z = document.getElementsByClassName("tabcontent");
var i;
for (i = 0; i < z.length; i++) {
z[i].style.display = "none";
}
/* Next Auto Generate the News Headlines */
/* The script creates a list of #JumpLinks | #JumpLinks etc. */
var ListOfHeadlines=";
var JumperIDs=[];
var JumperNews=[];
var BlueJumps=document.getElementsByClassName("jumpNews");
var GreenJumps=document.getElementsByClassName("Jump");
for (i=0; i
// When the user clicks the button, open the modal btn[0].onclick = function() { modal[0].style.display = "block"; }
btn[1].onclick = function() { modal[1].style.display = "block"; }
// When the user clicks on (x), close the modal span[0].onclick = function() { modal[0].style.display = "none"; }
span[1].onclick = function() { modal[1].style.display = "none"; }
function testThoseClicks(obj) {
if (obj == undefined) NextID="#TOPTOP";
else {
for (i=0; i