Walt Disney World Resort Update for May 14-20, 2019
Writer's note: As the world's eyes turn toward Disneyland's May 31 opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, news around Walt Disney World Resort naturally has become a bit more quiet. The Resort also has seen a few weekdays on the slightly more quiet side as we have hit this brief time between the last of school spring break periods wrapping up with Easter and the first school summer dismissals coming up before you know it.
Taking advantage of the brief quiet tourism time around Central Florida, I made the short drive over to Disney Character Warehouse at Orlando Premium Outlets on Vineland. The store sells primarily off-season or discontinued items from Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line. Not unexpectedly, the store was crowded. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Last night was the latest Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic event at Epcot. As a long-time DVC Member who pays attention to the registration process (and the deadlines that I research and include in each edition of this Update), I was there to enjoy the festivities. These events are a great perk of being a DVC Member, especially now that making arrangements to attend does not involve coordinating flights!
Programs from TRON were one of the special character appearances at last night's Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic event at Epcot. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Smoke from the special fireworks presentation during DVC Moonlight Magic filled the Future World Fountain Plaza, but created an interesting Flower & Garden Festival photo opportunity. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Let's get on to the rest of the news and views.
News and Views
Headlines are auto-generated here
24th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Begins August 29
Perhaps drawing some of the probable overflow crowds heading to nearby Disney's Hollywood Studios for its August 29 opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, or, at least, offering an alternative to those who want to visit everything else in the World, the very popular Epcot International Food & Wine Festival makes its debut this year on the same day. The 24th edition of the Festival will be its longest yet, running 87 days from August 29 through November 23, and featuring 30 Global Marketplaces (the kiosks that dot both Future World and World Showcase). However, with this year's Festival of the Holidays starting less than a week after Food & Wine's conclusion (on November 29), some aspects of the Food & Wine Festival will end before the Festival does.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series returns to the America Gardens stage for 249 scheduled concerts during the Festival. Many of this year's performers have been announced, and are now included in our Epcot Calendar. As noted below, though, the Concert Series ends on November 19, earlier than the Festival, to allow the stage to be transitioned for the Candlelight Processional during Festival of the Holidays. Among the new performers announced so far are: Sawyer Brown, Lauren Daigle, Boyce Avenue, and Kris Allen. Returning acts scheduled include: Plain White T's, Sugar Ray, Hanson, Sheila E. and Boyz II Men. Guaranteed concert seating is available by purchasing an Eat to the Beat Dining Package for breakfast, lunch or dinner at many Epcot restaurants.
Over in Future World, this year's Food & Wine Festival will see the expansion of the “Disney du Jour Dance Party” to seven days a week. A DJ will host Sundays through Thursdays, and on Fridays and Saturdays, stars from Radio Disney will give live performances, including Meg Donnelly from the Disney Channel original movie Zombies on the Festival's opening weekend.
Booking opens tomorrow, May 15 for several of the Festival's “culinary adventures” including:
- Party for the Senses at World Showplace Events Pavilion, featuring chefs and vintners from around the world. (Select Saturdays through November 9)
- Sunday Brunch with the Chef, hosted by celebrity chefs such as Cat Cora, Andrew Zimmern, Buddy Valastro and others. (Select Sundays through November 17)
- “Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It!” hands-on workshops that let you “rub shoulders” with visiting chefs, bakers, mixologists and other pros. (Select Mondays and Thursdays through November 14)
For a broader look at this year's Festival offerings, visit TasteEpcot.com. The Festival is included with park admission, but, of course, many things cost extra like food and beverages, dining experiences, workshops, culinary demonstrations, and other premium offerings.
Space-Themed Restaurant Scheduled to Open at Epcot THIS Year
The space-themed restaurant under construction in Future World East, adjacent to Mission: SPACE and near Test Track, is now expected to open before the end of 2019. Disney Parks Blog announced that the new restaurant, to be operated by Patina Restaurant Group, which also operates two restaurants at Italy pavilion as well as several at Disney Springs, will feature a menu of “internationally-inspired cuisine, more than 1,000 bottles of the world's finest wines and a wide selection of craft beer.” The new restaurant will be headed by Executive Chef Theo Schoenegger.
Dining team, this is Mission Control. You are clear for 2019 entry into the new space-themed restaurant coming to Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort! https://t.co/BM2LqoKoSf pic.twitter.com/kred8gFMo6
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) May 10, 2019
Visible construction on the restaurant site began just after Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks, Experiences, and Consumer Products, announced the venue during the last D23 Expo back in 2017. While Epcot is well-known for its many Disney- and partner-operated table-service restaurants around World Showcase and in Future World West, the park has never had any table-service dining options in Future World East.
NBA Experience Tickets Now On Sale
NBA Experience at Disney Springs is scheduled to hold its grand opening on August 12. The new venue, which has been custom-built from the ground up on the site formerly occupied by DisneyQuest on the West Side, will have 13 interactive and hands-on activities that guests can try as they “feel what it's like to be a real basketball star.” Well, perhaps, a “star” without an NBA salary, that is.
Tickets for admission to NBA Experience are $34/guests ages 10 and up and $29 for children ages 3-9 (tax not included). You can read more about the offerings at NBA Experience, and purchase tickets on this page of DisneyWorld.com. Tickets are also available at all Walt Disney World ticket windows and anywhere else Walt Disney World tickets are sold. Tickets purchased now are valid for one admission through December 31, 2020. The venue will not permit re-admission (like the parks offer), and, at least right now, there are no announced Passholder, Vacation Club or other discounts.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
In addition to buying a ticket for admission, to participate in the activities inside NBA Experience, guests must complete a waiver; a legal guardian must complete a waiver form for minors. The forms are available for review prior to visiting on this page of DisneyWorld.com
Epcot Concerts & Candlelight Processional News and Calendar
There are just a few weeks left to catch the remaining Garden Rocks Concert Series performances, three times nightly, through the June 3 conclusion of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. For more information or for reserving dining packages with guaranteed concert seating, call (407) WDW-DINE or visit FreshEpcot.com. Passholders can save 10% on food and beverages (except alcohol and excluding tax and gratuity) on dining packages for themselves and up to three guests.
Herman's Hermits Starring Peter Noone returned to the Garden Rocks Concert Series earlier this month. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka
This summer, Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! returns to the stage. From June 14 to 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. The show will be performed multiple times daily; 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.
As the summer approaches fall, 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 its the three-times-nightly Eat to the Beat Concert Series will only run until November 19. NEW 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 to allow the America Gardens stage to be prepared for the 2019 edition of Epcot's Candlelight Processional which debuts November 29 with the return of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays (through December 30). Three times each night, a celebrity narrator will retell the traditional Christmas story along with a mass choir and live orchestra.
For the convenience of our readers, all of the remaining scheduled Garden Rocks Concert Series performers at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. All of the Guardians of the Galaxy-Awesome Mix Live! dates are noted as well. NEW Many of the performers for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series were announced this past week; celebrity narrators for Candlelight Processional have not yet been announced. All of the relevant dates are noted on our calendar. 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
Magic Kingdom
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Enjoy a full ride aboard Tomorrowland Transit Authority including views of the TRON-themed coaster construction site. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Magic Kingdom Starbucks “Been There Series” mugs are available at the Main Street Bakery. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
55 Disney-themed gondolas were unwrapped last week and are now testing on the Disney Skyliner transport system between Disney's Hollywood Studios and Caribbean Beach Resort. Video ©Disney.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney busses exiting Disney's Hollywood Studios on to Buena Vista Drive get a view of the Disney Skyliner testing along the lines between Epcot and Disney's Riviera Resort. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Enjoy a full 20+ minute ride aboard Kilimanjaro Safaris. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Following the birth of Grace, the lowland gorilla born at Disney's Animal Kingdom on May 1, a Disney PhotoPass Photographer had a sign guests could pose with along the Gorilla Falls trail. Grace is named after the GRACE gorilla sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which helps gorillas orphaned by poaching. Disney's Animal Kingdom's animal care experts have helped GRACE for over 10 years in its rehabilitation of orphan gorillas. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Just as the PhotoPass sign said, Grace could be seen clinging to her mother, Kashata, in the lowland gorilla family group viewing area at Gorilla Falls this past week. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
This and That…
…The Play Disney Parks app, which will play a key role in guest interaction with Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at both Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios, added two new Walt Disney World digital experiences for guests (“presented” by Ziploc, so, yes, there may be some advertising content too). For Magic Kingdom's Splash Mountain (though playable anywhere at Walt Disney World), “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah Day” mini-games featuring characters from the attraction provides photo frames as rewards. The Disney “Kidcot Puzzle Hunt” adds a hunt to find physical jigsaw puzzle pieces at the Kidcot Fun Stops in the 11 pavilions of World Showcase, and rewards completion with digital jigsaw puzzles and photo frames themed to the pavilions.
Disney Parks Blog shared a brief video highlighting the new experiences. Video ©Disney.
…Like advanced dining reservations, guests can now make online reservations at DisneyWorld.com for “Magical Experiences” around the resort like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, The Pirates League and Magic Kingdom's Harmony Barber Shop. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance. (For those visiting Disneyland, its “Magical Experiences” can be booked online at Disneyland.com but only up to 60 days in advance.)
Appointments for “Magical Experiences” can now be booked online. Video ©Disney.
…Disney Parks Designer Collection limited-release Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse ear headbands are coming to Walt Disney World Resort's Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, MouseGear, Uptown Jewelers, Once Upon a Time and Discovery Trading Company. You can also visit shopDisney.com or venture over to the West Coast for Disneyland's The Disney Dress Shop, Disneyana and Off the Page. The release schedule announced so far includes:
- HARVEYS – May 24th
- Betsey Johnson – Summer 2019
- ALEX AND ANI – Summer 2019
- Noah Fine Art – Summer 2019
- Kim Irvine – Summer 2019
- Her Universe – Summer 2019
- SHAG – Summer 2019
- Jerrod Maruyama – Fall 2019
- Heidi Klum – Fall 2019
- The Blonds – Fall 2019
- Loungefly – Fall 2019
- COACH – Fall 2019
- Joe Rhode – April 2020
- Vera Wang – Spring 2020
- Cupcakes and Cashmere – Spring 2020
- Kevin Rafferty – Spring 2020
- Karlie Kloss – Spring 2020
- John Coulter – Summer 2020
…Perhaps of more immediate interest to our readers planning to visit Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland (since it opens there May 31), Disney Parks Blog has published its Foodie Guide for the new land. Here in Florida, the new land opens August 29 at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and the Foodie Guide applies to guests visiting both coasts.
…All TaylorMade Golf Bags are available at a 20% discount for a limited time at Walt Disney World Pro Shops. If you cannot make to one of the shops, you can also contact Arnold Palmer Golf Management's Retail Sales Manager by calling (407)431-0070 or emailing sclarson@palmergolf.com to arrange to have one shipped directly to you.
…This Thursday, May 16, Disney Vacation Club Members can book this year's Members Independence Day Dessert Party to be held Wednesday, July 3, from 7:15 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom and Convention Center at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Guests will also have a good view of Disney's Celebrate America!-A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky at Magic Kingdom which starts at 9:15 p.m. The event is $42/person (including tax and gratuity). More details are available on this page of DisneyVacationClub.com and bookings will be available by calling Member Services at (800)800-9800.
…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
NEW 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.
…Looking ahead to the winter holidays, Disney Cruise Line will celebrate this November and December with the return of Very Merrytime Cruises sailing from New York, Florida, and Texas. These winter sailings include “snow flurries,” holiday decor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Frozen friends and, of course, Mickey and the gang. Read more about it on Disney Parks Blog.
…The MousePlanet Newsletter is here! The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your email in the box below.
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New & Coming Soon at Disney Springs
This section collects all of the Disney Springs retail and dining events we are aware of in one place along with our most recent views of the area (including those immediately under this paragraph). Event items NEW to the Update are marked accordingly. For even more of the latest news around Disney Springs, follow its official Twitter Feed: @DisneySprings.
M•A•C Cosmetics
NEW A new makeup collection inspired by Princess Jasmine from Disney's Aladdin will debut exclusively at the store at Disney Springs. To celebrate, on May 15, from noon to 10 p.m., the new collection will be available at Waterview Park (in the Landing neighborhood near The BOATHOUSE and Wine Bar George). M•A•C Cosmetics will offer an “immersive atmosphere with incredible and Instagram worthy photo opportunities and surprise and delight moments inspired by the film,” according to Disney Parks Blog. The new live-action Aladdin opens in theaters on May 24.
Bongo's Cuban Café
NEW Orlando Sentinel reports 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.
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
Maria and Enzo's Ristorante
NEW Last week, the restaurant hosted invited media for a kickoff “Pasta Palooza” dinner featuring its classic Lasagna Verde following a preparation demonstration by Executive Chef Charlie Restivo. Kyle Collins, Marketing Director of Patina Restaurant Group, said, “The signature pasta dishes that we serve at Maria & Enzo's are so delicious and unique because of the authenticity of ingredients that we use. We go the extra mile to source our pasta from The Gentile Pasta Factory, founded in 1876, in Gragnano, Italy because it's made using 100% Italian semolina wheat and a low-temperature natural air-drying method that pasta-makers pioneered in the sixteenth century.” In June and July, the restaurants also plans to highlight its pastas for us, showcasing menu items that are always available.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Increasingly, we are sharing events like Chef Charlie Restivo's demonstration of preparing Lasagna Verde on our IGTV channel. You can see our IGTV videos and many other posts when following @MousePlanet on Instagram. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
In addition to Maria and Enzo's, Patina Restaurant Group also operates the adjoining Enzo's Hideaway, Pizza Ponte, and The Eddison. At Disney Springs, Patina also operates Morimoto Asia, and at Epcot, it operates Tutto Italia Ristorante and Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria. As noted in the news section above, Patina will also operate the space-themed restaurant expected to open in Future World East later this year.
The Edison
At The Edison during May, the “BBQ Tavern Burger” features the signature Edison blend of sirloin, short rib, and brisket with a BBQ style twist, fully loaded with crispy potato wedges, juicy bacon, lettuce, tomato and served on a toasted, buttery brioche roll. Accompany the May specialty burger with the aromatic “Almond Crusta” cocktail featuring Martell Blue Swift cognac, Tanqueray No. Ten gin, lemon juice, orgeat, and Angostura bitters for an electric pairing.
The May burger of the month is the “BBQ Tavern Burger” at The Edison. Photo courtesy Patina Restaurant Group.
Amorette's Patisserie NEW Creations
Aladdin Petit Cakes (Almond Chiffon Cake, Amaretto Simple Syrup, Fig Pate de Fruit, Five Spice Mouse, Almond Pecan Granola, and Golden Raisin Jam) topped with the Magic Carpet are available for $16, just ahead of the theatrical release of the live-action version of Disney's “Aladdin.” Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Bumblebee is the latest addition to the dome cake offerings at the bakery. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
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. 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.
Just click the year you want to expand (or close).
2019 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours:(hard ticket required; park entry at 7 p.m., event hours vary by published date)
…at Magic Kingdom:- May 16, 23 & 30
…Disney Villains at Magic Kingdom
- June 6, 13, 20 & 27
- July 1, 11, 18 & 25
- August 1 & 8
…at Disney's Hollywood Studios (including two “special” events):
- May 17, 24 & 31
- June 14, 21 & 28
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom:
- May 14 & 21
- June 4, 11 & 18
- Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic:(registration required)
…at Epcot- May 20, 2019 (Registration filled)
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom
- July 18, August 8 & 22, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: June 5, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: June 12, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
…at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon
- September 18 & October 16, 2019
- Registration opens for Members with Resort Reservations: August 14, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Registration opens for all Members: August 28, 2019 at 9 a.m. Eastern
- Mickey & Minnie's Surprise Celebration at Magic Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Party with Pixar Pals at Disney's Hollywood Studios – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- 25 Years of The Lion King at Disney's Animal Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 6 – June 3, 2019
- 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
- MORE EVENTS COMING SOON!
Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. All refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit DisneyWorld.com or use the MyDisneyExperience App on your iOS or Android device.
View the different areas of the Resort by scrolling horizontally and selecting the one you want to read about.
Magic Kingdom
- Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial – No longer listed in My Disney Experience (final show was September 29, 2018).
- Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as “available seasonally throughout the year”
Be aware that it is increasingly unlikely it will reopen; the attraction's lobby is usually used for greeting Stitch - Walt Disney World Railroad – Closed as of December 3, 2018 to accomodate TRON construction (reopening to be announced). Guests can visit a Walt Disney World Railroad train at Main Street Station.
- Tomorrowland Speedway – Closed as of January 2, 2019 for track adjustment to accomodate TRON construction (expected reopening mid-May).
Epcot
- The SpectacuLAB presented by Murata (in Innoventions) – no longer open or listed in My Disney Experience
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Permanently closed on August 13, 2017.
Guardians of the Galaxy-themed roller coaster-type attraction opens in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – Closed February 3, 2018. (New film entitled “Awesome Planet” announced.)
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Final performance: September 30, 2019.
“Epcot Forever” debuts October 1 for a limited run which will be followed by a new nighttime spectacular in 2020
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Star Wars: Path of the Jedi – Currently only available during Star Wars Guided Tours
- Disney Movie Magic (projection show) – final 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 debuts Memorial Day Weekend
- Conservation Station – Rafiki's Planet Watch – Wildlife Express Train – Closed – announced reopening Summer 2019
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 Oak Trail Golf Course – closed for refurbishment through May 16, 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
4-Park Magic Tickets
On January 18, Disney introduced a new four park ticket that provides one admission per theme park each day that must be used within 7 days of first use or by an expiration based upon price category, whichever comes first. 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.
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. |
Passholders visiting Epcot during the 2019 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival can get a complimentary Daisy Duck-themed passholder magnet at MouseGear or Port of Entry by showing your pass and matching photo ID (while supplies last).
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. (You may need to sign in to see the full list applicable to your pass.) Don't forget about the dedicated V.I.PASSHOLDER SUPPORT service for questions about Passholder benefits and recommendations. Call (407)WDW-PASS or on-line chat (via chat button on this page of DisneyWorld.com) daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern, by email (via a web form), or in-person at Liberty Square Ticket Office in Magic Kingdom, Ticket Central at Disney's Hollywood Studios, or Ticket Corner at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity).
Through August 31, Passholders save 15% off lunch or dinner at Maria & Enzo's, Enzo's Hideaway and The Edison (for the Passholder and up to 10 Guests).
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts at many merchandise locations across Walt Disney World Resort, including locations that continue to offer 20 percent discounts off regularly priced merchandise. Remember, not all merchandise locations at Walt Disney World are owned and operated by Disney, but some of the non-Disney participants (including restaurants) offer discounts between 10 and 20% to Passholders as well. Note, the current terms and conditions include, “Discount is for personal use only and may not be used to purchase merchandise with the intent to resell the merchandise.“
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for special events and tours at locations around Walt Disney World Resort.
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for sports, recreation, and spas around Walt Disney World Resort.
For the current list of Passholder Extras visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Passholder Extras include information about V.I.Passholder Perks, discounts on Disney After Hours events, Animal Encounter and tour discounts, Water Park discounts, Golf discounts, and more.
Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” offers a $5 discount on stroller rental when staying at a Disney Resort Hotel and using coupon code WDWAP18 to arrange your rental. It is listed on the “Passholders Extras” page of the Passholder website (last checked April 15, 2019).
Visit the DisneyWorld.com Special Offers page (filtered for Passholders) and log in with a My Disney Experience account linked to your Annual Pass for information, or call (407) 939-4232 to book by phone.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders
Reminder to MagicBand users: You must still show your Disney Visa credit card to receive discounts and other benefits. Discounts are not automatically applied even if you have linked your Disney Visa credit card to your MagicBand. |
To conserve space, we have eliminated some of the participating location details of the Disney Visa Rewards offers from this section. Visit Disney Visa Rewards website for the latest participating location information.
20 percent off Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks
Disney Visa cardholders receive 20 percent off their entire purchase at Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks throughout Walt Disney World, including Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, and online at Joffreys.com with code: VISABEANS
15 percent off select guided tours
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of selected guided tours for up to 10 people. The cardholder must participate in the tour, and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card. Discounts are not available on Premium VIP tours, programs exclusive to groups, or group team building programs.
10 percent off select restaurants
Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Offer excludes alcoholic beverages, merchandise, tobacco, room service, holiday buffets, tax and gratuity. Discount may not be available at all meal times. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for the latest list of restaurants and restrictions.
10 percent off merchandise
Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off at participating Disney-owned retail location when you spend a minimum of $50 and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Read all of the restrictions on the this page of disneyrewards.com.
Cardholders also receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at the following Walt Disney World Resort Operating Participant merchandise locations including Basin, Basin White, Chapel Hats, Good Fortune Gifts and House of Good Fortune, kidsHeritage, Luxury of Time, Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts, Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks and Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, Sperry and Volcom.
15 percent off all Disney spa and salon services
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of any salon treatment valued at $45 or greater or any 50-minute or longer spa service most days at the spas and salons at Walt Disney World Resort. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for participating locations and restrictions.
10 percent off select recreation experiences
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of the recreation experiences listed below:
- Carriage Rides at Disney's Port Orleans Resort and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Horseback Trail Rides at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Epcot
Present your Disney's Visa Card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot (enter near the jumping fountains near the exit to the Magic Eye Theater). You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Present your Disney's Visa card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
For Military Personnel
2019 Military Promotional Tickets
January 1 through December 19, 2019
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets –$241.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $291.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $257.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $307.00
Prices do not include tax and tickets must be used by December 19, 2019.
Prices may be lower at U.S. military base ticket offices.
U.S. military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98 through December 19, 2019.
For more information, definitions and details, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by eligible service members or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouse), and one ticket must be used by that member of the military (or spouse). Each ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.
Special pricing for Memory Maker is available at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows when purchased by eligible service members or their spouses. No more than two Memory Maker products can be purchased by an eligible service member or their spouse. Usual Memory Maker restrictions apply and a MagicBand is required to receive some digital content.
Special Rates at Resort Hotels
U.S. military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2018, for stays most nights through April 13, and from April 26 through December 19, 2018. Offer excludes suites in Moderate and Deluxe Resort hotels, 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Call (407)939-4249 for information and reservations. Eligibility details are listed on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Read more information at militarydisneytips.com, visit your base ticket office, or when at Walt Disney World, visit Shades of Green.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Florida Residents
Park Tickets
Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket
Walt Disney World Resort continues to offer Florida resident discount ticket programs. For the first half of 2019, the Discover Disney Ticket offer has returned. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for more information and purchasing options. Proof of Florida residence will be required at park entrance
- 3-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $175 plus tax
- 3-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper – $207.50 plus tax
- 3-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper Plus – $232.50 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Ticket – $195 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper – $232.50 plus tax
- 4-Day Discover Disney Park Hopper Plus – $257.50 plus tax
Discover Disney Tickets are valid for admission to one park per day (unless Park Hopper is added) and can be used anytime through June 30, 2019, with no blockout dates. Tickets must be purchased by June 27, 2019. Proof of Florida residency required. Tickets exclude activities and events separately priced (i.e. “hard ticket” events and such).
The Park Hopper Plus Option permits visits to Disney Water Parks, select Disney Golf courses, and select other opportunities. The 3-Day Plus Option permits 3 visits; the 4-Day Plus Option permits 4 visits.
All tickets and options expire June 30, 2019. A wholly unused ticket can be applied to the purchase of a new ticket with an equal or higher price after the expiration date of the original ticket.
Other Florida Resident Offers
For special tickets, passes and offers available to Florida Residents, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Spring Florida resident hotel rates starting at $88/person per day for a 3-night/4-day package for a family of 4 at a select Disney's All-Star Resort for travel through April 27, 2019, are available on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Vacation Club Members
Member Benefits and Discounts may be found on this page of DisneyVacationClub.com. Note: some benefits and discounts are only available to those with a valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card which is only available to Members owning at least 75 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.
Disney Cruise Line is offering eligible Members a 30 percent discount off original points chart values for select Bahamian sailings aboard the Disney Dream out of Port Canaveral, Florida: 5-night sailings departing June 28, and July 7 and 12, 2019, each featuring two stops at Disney’s private-island paradise, Castaway Cay, as well as select Mexican Riviera sailings aboard the Disney Wonder out of San Diego, California: 7-night Halloween on the High Seas voyages departing October 20 and 27, 2019. More information and eligible itineraries are on this page of the DVC website. The offer is only valid on reservations made through DVC Member Services.
Adventures by Disney is offering eligible Members 20 percent off original points chart values for select river cruises and land-based trips including Danube River Cruises (featuring eight destinations in four countries – Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary) departing June 6, July 12 and December 15, 2019, and Rhine River Cruises (featuring six destinations in four countries – Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands) departing July 15, 22 and 29, 2019. This Adventures by Disney discount is also available for short escapes in the U.S. (with options in Boston, New York City, the American Southwest and more), and lengthier explorations of Europe, Asia, Central America and South America. Discount applies to reservations made entirely with vacation points, or through a combination of vacation points and cash. More information and eligible trips are on this page of the DVC website. The offer is only valid on reservations made through DVC Member Services.
Call DVC Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to take advantage of these offers.
If you know of an offer that you think most Members do not know about, please drop us an email with the details.
For New England Residents
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort celebrates February's big football game victory by the team from New England by offering the “Champions Package” to residents of New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. For stays through December 24, 2019 (minimum stay of three nights required), the Champions Package includes $100 meal credit, which can be used at Shula's Steak House (named for NFL's winningest coach, Don Shula) or any other restaurant at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. It also includes a “one category complimentary room upgrade that does not include suite upgrades.” Guests must have valid state identification at check-in from an eligible state. More information and details of the offer are available at this page of SwanDolphin.com. More information and reservations are available by calling (800)227-1500 and mentioning “CHAMPS.”
For Canada Residents
Canada residents can purchase an adult 4-day or longer base theme park ticket for as low as $316 (that is $79/day; US Dollars not including tax). Upgrades to the Park Hopper Option are also available. Tickets may be purchased on this page of DisneyWorld.com for Canada residents or by phone at (407)939-7648. This offer is available through March 15, 2019, and they may be used through September 27, 2019 (but are blocked December 24, 2018, to January 1, 2019). Tickets must be used within 14 days of first use or by September 27, 2019, whichever is earlier.
All adults using Canada resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canada residency that includes government-issued photo ID to exchange the certificate for a valid ticket at the theme park ticket window or Guest Relations prior to first use. The offer itself requires advanced purchase; it is not available at Walt Disney World Resort theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options are nontransferable, nonrefundable and exclude events/activities separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and to other restrictions.
Check https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/ca/ for the latest offers from Disney.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For U.K. Residents
You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. It now features an offer where everyone on your booking dines for FREE during their entire stay when you book a Disney Moderate, Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort Hotel and Ticket package for a minimum of 5 nights in 2019; also enjoy FREE Breakfast if you stay in a Value Resort Hotel! Plus, enjoy speciality non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages during your stay!
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
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