Walt Disney World Resort Update for October 30 – November 5, 2018
Writer's note: For those that follow us on MousePlanet's Facebook page, you may have noticed that Facebook now allows us to post “3D Images,” and I have posted a few to our page. The new image format is possible because of the many devices that now have multiple camera lenses pointing in the same direction. My current mobile device is the new iPhone XSMax which has two camera lenses on the back and a camera plus multiple image sensors on the front (for selfies and Face ID). All those lenses and sensors, capture image data from different perspectives that Apple lets users save when they take photos in “Portrait” mode. Facebook now lets users upload those “Portrait” mode photos to create images in its new 3D format.
The new 3D format on Facebook allows us to show you images in a new way. More information about this particular X-Wing card below in the Disney Springs section of the Update. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
So far, we cannot embed those 3D images in the Update or on our other social media channels, but the above video gives you an idea of how they appear in your Facebook feed when you are either visiting MousePlanet's page or just scrolling through your news (or viewing anyone else's 3D posts for that matter). If you would like to post your own 3D images taken with a compatible camera, be sure to check out the Facebook 360 page (and if the feature has not rolled out to your user ID yet, you can force it to by liking that page, quitting your mobile device's Facebook app and restarting it—some folks have also needed to restart their mobile device entirely).
Have a happy and safe Halloween. Oh yeah, and if you have a U.S. mailing address and want to get the Oogie Boogie popcorn bucket I bought at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party this year, I am going to give to one MousePlanet reader. There is no purchase necessary, but you must follow @MousePlanet on Instagram from a non-private account that accepts direct messages from @MousePlanet. Be sure to visit our Instagram Story that includes Oogie coming up on Halloween, October 31, 2018, for instructions on how you may be the one selected.
News and Views
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Reimagined World of Disney Store Now Open at Disney Springs
World of Disney store at Disney Springs held a “Grand Reveal” celebration on Saturday, October 27, marking the reopening of what Disney says is the largest Disney-themed merchandise location in the World. After a refurbishment of more than a year in its planning and execution, Disney says there is “more magic in store than ever before.” Gone from the store are the character murals high atop the walls and, indeed, gone are many of the store's interior walls. In the reimagined and much more open, less-cluttered floor plan, the store now contains several single-themed areas (like holidays, Star Wars, princesses, Minnie Mouse dots, Mickey Mouse Club—which will briefly be a World of Disney store exclusive, etc.), plus areas for men, women, and youth, as well as areas where the whole family can shop together to find coordinated graphic t-shirts and other souvenir categories.
The Grand Reveal, October 27, 2018. Video by Alan S. Dalinka
The reimagined World of Disney store at Disney Springs is again the largest Disney-themed merchandise store. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The interior of the store is now much more open than it was before the refurbishment; many of the interior walls have been removed. Panoramic Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
As the new design uses digital projection in several places, the themed areas of the store can and will be changed for various product launches. For example, the first area likely to be changed out is the area currently themed to the winter holidays. Expect to see other changes that are smaller in scale as Disney learns how guests utilize the new store over the coming busy winter holiday shopping season.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
As we discussed last week, like the Disneyland Resort version of the World of Disney store, the Disney Springs store has an imagineered backstory tied to Disney animation history. As the Florida version goes, the space had been once used as an indoor farmers market (rather than the bus depot theme out in California) that became the Florida animation studio for Walt's “nine old men” who set up shop and started a tradition until what is now Disney's Hollywood Studios opened its animation studio back in 1989. The current refurbishment draws from the elements the animators left behind when they left the building (at least in the story).
The interior of the store contains a few nods to its newly imagineered backstory—that it was once the Florida home to the “nine old men” of Walt Disney animation. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Mark Reichow, Principle Concept Development Technical Director, Walt Disney Imagineering, discusses the story behind the reimagining of the World of Disney store at Disney Springs and some of the “Disney Magic” touches guests can find around the store. Video by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Cast members in the stores have new costumes consisting of “modern-fit jeans” and plaid shirts with Mickey Mouse silhouettes. (They appear in the Grand Reveal Celebration video at the top of this section). As Disney company-wide has embarked on an effort to reduce its use of single-use plastics by the middle of next year, the new World of Disney Store also now features new specially designed, reusable merchandise bags featuring classic Disney characters. The environmentally friendly bags made from 80% recycled materials will be offered in a regular size for $1 each and a large size for $2 each (see the Disney Springs section below for a photo of one we were given).
On behalf of MousePlanet, I was invited to a media preview inside the refurbished store held during the hour before the public ceremony outside.
Disney's Hollywood Studios Roadways Change November 8
In anticipation of next year's opening of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and the likely biggest crowds to date at this park, Disney has constructed a new entry road and toll plaza for guests entering the parking lot. Starting on November 8, guests driving to the park will only be able to enter the parking lot from the new entrance road located off of Osceola Parkway. An access road will also feed into the same toll plaza off of southbound Victory Way. The parking lot will also exit to Osceola Parkway rather than Buena Vista Drive.
The current main entrance route off of World Drive and Osceola Parkway will be converted to a cast members-only entrance. The existing entrance on Buena Vista Drive will be dedicated to bus traffic. In recent weeks, we have shown photos of the on-going construction to the bus loops, the adjustment of the tram lanes, and the construction of the upcoming Disney Skyliner station in the parking lot. Disney has not announced completion dates for any of those projects yet.
Starting November 8, all guest cars will enter the parking lot for Disney's Hollywood Studios from new access roads. Map via Disney Parks Blog.
The roads around Disney's Hollywood Studios like Osceola Parkway are being prepared for the opening of the new entrance to the parking lot. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Epcot Concert & Candlelight Processional News & Calendar
Less than two weeks remain for this year's run of of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre with the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival wrapping up on November 12. The new Quick Service dining package option continues to be offered available daily at Liberty Inn at The American Adventure pavilion (no advanced reservations, with availability status noted on a sign out front): $29.99/person plus tax, guests purchase a meal (entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage) and get a guaranteed concert seat. The usual Table Service dining packages that include guaranteed concert seats are available by visiting TasteEpcot.com or calling (407) 939-3378.
Early last week, Kenny G returned to Epcot for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This past weekend, Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, returned to Epcot for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Outside Liberty Inn, a sign advertises the Quick Service guaranteed concert seating packages remaining for the evening's performances of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series during this year's Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. File photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Our Google Calendar of Epcot Events includes a list of the scheduled performers (but, as always, check the My Disney Experience app, Times Guide, and, yes, sometimes even signs posted at the park entrances and at the theater noting last minute changes).
The Food & Wine Festival also includes a second concert venue on Friday and Saturday evenings in conjunction with the new Disney Du Jour Dance Party at the Fountain View Stage in Future World. Different pairs of Disney characters stop by each weekend (Remy and Emile from Disney-Pixar's Ratatouille, Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps from Zootopia, Lilo and Stitch, or classic favorites such as Chip 'n ' Dale or Clarabelle Cow and Horace Horsecollar). The Disney Du Jour Dance Party is highlighted by a special concert appearance by an up-and-coming artist from Radio Disney.
Alex Aiono made special appearances on the Fountain View Stage in Future World last weekend during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Epcot International Festival of the Holidays begins on November 18, with additional entertainment by storytellers and musical acts all around the park. Starting on Thanksgiving night, November 22, and running until December 30, the Candlelight Processional returns to the America Gardens Theatre for the traditional retelling of the story of Christmas with celebrity narrator, live orchestra and mass choir. This week, Disney announced four more narrators (which we have added to our calendar as well). Our Candlelight Processional at Epcot Guide lists the dining packages available for breakfast, lunch and dinner around Epcot and its neighboring resorts, and the up-to-date listing of celebrity narrators. You can also visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for Candlelight dining package information and reservations.
The Candlelight Processional will debut at Epcot this year on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, and is scheduled to run three times nightly through December 30. Pat Sajak is scheduled to return as a celebrity narrator again this year. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
For the convenience of our readers, all of the 2018 scheduled performances at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. With the recently announced dates for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series and Garden Rocks Concert Series in 2019, we have added entries for the expected daily schedule and we will update those as performance details are announced.
You can add the whole Event calendar to any calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link. The calendar is provided as a courtesy “as is, where is” without any guarantees. Given the effort it took to create it, we do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. 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
With Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park closing for its seasonal refurbishment this past weekend and my never having been there before notwithstanding having purchased the Platinum Plus Annual Pass this year, I ventured over for a look around and took in (and photographed) quite a few views around Walt Disney World Resort that I had never seen before. In addition to the other views I had this week, contributors Donald and Bonnie Fink headed over to Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Coronado Resort to take a look at some of the recently completed elements and the on-going construction at those resorts too.
And if you are new to the Update or just forgot, our Disney Springs views are now part of a whole section devoted just to Disney Springs.
Disney's Blizzard Beach (and the views it provides)
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
There are quite expansive views of Walt Disney World from the top of the Blizzard Beach summit.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Epcot
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka (all from a single safari ride).
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort & Disney Riviera (proposed DVC Resort)
Photos by Donald Fink (DF) & Bonnie Fink (BF).
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Photos by Donald Fink (DF) & Bonnie Fink (BF).
The new hotel tower under construction at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort can be seen from many other places. This is the view from the parking lot of Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
This and That…
…Unlocking some achievements in the Play Disney Parks app now gives you the opportunity, for a limited time, to purchase physical pins commemorating your virtual success. Specifically, earning the Never Lander (Fantasyland), Space Mountaineer (Tomorrowland) or Midway Maniac (Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios) achievements and showing the area-specific achievement to a cast member at Fantasy Faire, Tomorrowland Light & Power Co. (both in Magic Kingdom) or Celebrity 5 & 10 at Disney's Hollywood Studios gets you the purchasing opportunity. Read more at Disney Parks Blog (including the equivalent opportunities at Disneyland Resort).
…Disney Parks Blog also showed off the confetti-covered costumes Mickey and Minnie will wear when celebrating their 90th birthday in the Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party starting January 18, 2019. The costumes will also appear at Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland, Disneyland Resort (in Anaheim, California), and Disney Cruise Line.
…For foodies, Disney Parks Blog offers up some highlights – #HappyPlace “Best Eats” and a guide to the upcoming Epcot International Festival of the Holidays 2018 edition.
…And for folks that are looking for merchandise celebrating food and runDisney, Disney Parks Blog shared highlights of the merchandise coming next weekend for the 2019 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo.
…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. Event items NEW to the Update are marked accordingly. Looking for Thanksgiving dining options? We include a bunch of announcements from Disney Springs restaurants below too.
This year's edition of the Christmas Tree Trail and Santa's Chalet are again being installed along the former Marketplace bus loop. We will have more news about this year's holiday offerings at Disney Springs in coming weeks. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Inside the Disney Style shop, the large wall-size photo-backdrop features ballroom Haunted Mansion dancers for Halloween. A winter holiday scene is likely to appear here soon. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Outside the AMC Dine-In 24 Theatres, the photo backdrop promotes Disney's upcoming “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” which opens November 2. Disney Parks Blog held a “meet-up” preview of the film on Sunday and when its video is posted to DPB you may spot a familiar face (yes, I was able to RSVP in time to be in the audience). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
NEW Halloween Food Photos
With Halloween coming up this week, we take a look at two of Disney's specialty food locations at Disney Springs: Amorette's Patisserie and The Ganachery.
Amorette's Patisserie has its “Pumpkey” dome cake available again for Halloween. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
NEW Status of Parking Availability at Disney Springs
Those who visit Disney Springs during the weekends or during busy times of the year at the Resort know that the two parking structures often fill to capacity during those peak times. Construction continues across Buena Vista Drive at the site of the new garage that will connect to Disney Springs by a series of pedestrian bridges. As the winter holiday season is rapidly approaching, the existing Orange and Lime garages are changing the space-available technology that informs visitors of the number of parking spaces available on each level of each garage, and, by lights above parking spaces, which spaces may be available. Disney has not announced completion dates for either project, but with the extremely busy season approaching as quickly as Thanksgiving, we bet there will be some more parking news soon.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant
Cooke's of Dublin, the counter-service counterpart to Raglan Road, now offers its own mobile ordering; choose from either direct on its website or its mobile app (available in the App Store or Google Play).
Ireland's Lisa Canny, the ginger-haired vocalist-harpist-banjo player, continues to appear on the Raglan Road Irish Pub stage through December 6.
Reservations may still be available for Raglan Road's traditional Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, November 22. The menu includes butter and herb roasted turkey with gravy, duck fat potato roasties, bacon-roasted Brussels sprouts, apple, sage & sweet onion stuffing, and cranberry and plum chutney. The prix fix meal is $28 for adults, $14 for children. The restaurant will also offer its full regular menu on Thanksgiving. Call (407) 938-0300 to make a reservation.
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant will offer a traditional turkey dinner on Thanksgiving. Image courtesy of Raglan Road.
Wine Bar George
Enjoy a guided tasting with Master Sommelier George Miliotes featuring six red wines from around the world plus a selection of cheese and charcuterie on November 1, from 5-6:30 p.m. Tickets are $105.25 available here (note, the webpage says that the price is $110.25 per person includes tax and tip, but the tickets link on the page suggests the charge will be $105.25). Must be age 21 or over and the event will be cancelled if less than 10 register.
Additional Tasting Opportunities with George Miliotes
- Cristom Vineyards Tasting with Tom Gerrie – November 5, 3:30-5 p.m. – $75.
- An Afternoon of Riesling with Johannes Selbach – November 10, noon-3 p.m. – $120 (includes 4-course lunch).
More information and links to tickets at WineBarGeorge.com.
A traditional Thanksgiving turkey plate will be available for $32/person ($16/kids 9 and under). Pumpkin pie will be available for $10/person. Thanksgiving Day, November 22, opening at 11 a.m.
Morimoto Asia
For Thanksgiving, Morimoto Asia is serving up a celebratory Peking Turkey Dinner that it describes as “Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside,” along with roasted pork fried rice “stuffing,” Japanese style candied yams, cranberry-litchi chutney, and Szechuan peppercorn gravy. Dinner is $48 per person. For reservations visit MorimotoAsia.com.
The Edison
On Halloween night, The Edison hosts a party paying homage to the 25th anniversary of the release of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas. “A Halloween Soirée at The Edison” starts at 7:30 p.m.. Tickets are $85 plus tax and gratuity and include Live Music and Dancers, Passed Hors d'Oeuvres, a welcome cocktail, a costume contest, stilt walkers, aerialist performances, plus giveaways and take home treats. Guests must be 21 or over to attend and the restaurant's full food and menu will be available for additional purchase. Visit this page of the Patina Restaurant Group website for more information and to purchase tickets.
For Thanksgiving, The Edison is serving traditional holiday fixings with a full turkey dinner. For $25 per person, guests can dine on classic oven roasted turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes with gravy, savory house-made stuffing, sweet baby carrots, and cranberry chutney. For reservations visit TheEdisonFla.com.
Maria & Enzo's and Enzo's Hideaway
Maria & Enzo's and Enzo's Hideaway at Disney Springs are now offering 40% off to Disney Annual Passholders during lunch through December 31. Not valid with any other offer or during brunch.
For Thanksgiving, Maria & Enzo’s is serving a three-course Italian holiday dinner for $39 per person and $19 per child nine and under. Starters include Roasted Apple and Winter Squash Soup, Forest Mushroom Arancini, and Marinated Goat Cheese with Roasted Baby Beets. Guests can dine on entrees such as Braised Turkey Meatballs, Pasta al Forno, or Grilled Wild Salmon. A tasting of desserts with mini house-made cannoli, seasonal pumpkin cheesecake, gelato, and sorbet will be available too. For reservations visit MariaAndEnzos.com.
At neighboring Enzo's Hideaway for Thanksgiving, you can also find a similar offering. For reservations visit EnzosHideawayFla.com.
Terralina Crafted Italian
TerralinaCraftedItalian.com is offering an October Happy Hour featuring charcuterie board for $15 and half-priced pizzas.
Terralina Crafted Italian now serves up Meatball Mondays. Guests can choose from three meatball dishes including a meatball sandwich ($14), pizza ($15) or calzone ($14) served with pecorino-truffle potato chips and garlic pickles. Substitute the sides with a baby greens salad or French fries for $3.
Paddlefish
Rooftop Wine Experiences are available on the second Tuesday every month through January on the third “deck.” The experience and discussion lead by its Sommelier team features wine flights from around the world and light bites. The next one is October 9. For more information and tickets, visit its EventBrite webpage. Guests must be 21 or older to attend.
Jaleo: NEW Construction Photo
Construction continues at the future Jaleo restaurant. Some of the exterior signs still say “Coming in 2018.” Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill NEW Construction Photo
An exterior sign has been installed on the future Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill (next to the Coca-Cola Store). Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Chicken Guy: NEW Sign Photo
The recently opened Chicken Guy restaurant has added a new exterior sign as well, directly across from the new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
City Works Eatery & Pour House: NEW Construction Photos
Disney Parks Blog announced that a new City Works Eatery & Pour House will open on the West Side of Disney springs in summer 2019 adjacent to the NBA Experience (which is also expected to open in 2019). Like the chain's seven other locations across the United States, the new venue will offer 80 beers on tap, including local brews and other rare, limited supply selections from around the world. It will also feature a selection of popular wines along with a bar menu of “shareables, burgers and more” with lots of high-definition tvs showing live sporting events.
Construction continues at NBA Experience on the West Side of Disney Springs. City Works Eatery & Pour House is also opening in the corner closest to the Cirque du Soleil theater. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Concept art on the construction wall shows a rendition of the new City Works Eatery & Pour House expected to open next year. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
New Hyper-Reality Experience Coming to The VOID
Last winter, The VOID opened at Disney Springs with Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire created by The VOID and ILMxLAB (the immersive entertainment division of LucasFilm). With the Disney Animation Studios film Ralph Breaks the Internet due in theaters on November 21, this fall, The VOID, ILMxLAB and The Walt Disney Company will present Ralph Breaks VR go give guests “a new multi-sensory Disney adventure…immersed in the worlds of the internet and online gaming with Wreck-It Ralph and Vanellope.”
For those that have never visited The VOID at Disney Springs Marketplace (or Downtown Disney in Anaheim or elsewhere), the physical space guests explore itself is pretty much a “black box” where the players wear equipment and a helmet that immerses them into a virtual world rather than the place itself. Thus, it is not surprising that Disney Parks Blog confirms that Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire “will not be going away” when Ralph Wrecks VR debuts. Staff at The VOID confirm this as well.
Retail: NEW Photos
World of Disney store has now offers re-usable shopping bags that are currently being sold for $1 each for the regular size and $2 each for the large size. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Though the World of Disney store is once again fully open, it does not offer embroidery (even for its large “ears” offerings). You may take your World of Disney purchase to Stitching Memories (next door to Art of Disney) to purchase embroidery services. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Stitching Memories is next door to the now-closed Disney Design-A-Tee shop in the Marketplace area. File HDR photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
In Town Center, Ever After Jewelry & Accessories Co. also has a new product line for sale. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Ever After Jewelry & Accessories Co. now has a line of Kate Spade brand bags with Walt Disney quotations. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
With Mickey Mouse's 90th birthday celebration coming in November, some of the Disney Springs retailers are featuring related themed items. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
The Art of Disney Presents Greg McCullough
From November 3 through January 1, artist Greg McCullough (who has previously been featured at other Art of Disney stores and at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts), will be in residence daily (except Mondays) from 1 to 7:30 p.m. in a new pop-up shop located in the shop formerly operated by Little Miss Matched in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs. The shop will feature McCullough's art, including original works, limited-editions and prints. Guests will have a chance to interact with him and have artwork signed.
The former site of Little Miss Matched will become home to The Art of Disney Presents Greg McCullough from November 3 through January 1. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Inside the Marketplace Co-Op: NEW Photos
Centerpiece inside Marketplace Co-op is currently Halloween themed; that will likely change after the holiday. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
►Disney Tails opened October 12, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Haunted Mansion, and Star Wars collections for pets (mostly dogs, but some for cats too). The store also includes leashes, collars, bandanas, squeak toys, and more.
Photos by Alan S. Dalinka.
►Lovepop in the center of Marketplace Co-Op features a new kind of greeting card that Disney Parks Blog describes as “an intricate 3D paper sculpture designed on cutting-edge software, then hand-assembled with impeccable craftsmanship.” The shop's selection is a subset of its full lineup that you can see on its website lovepopcards.com
The new lovepop shop is in the center of Marketplace Co-op. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
As mentioned in the Writer's Note, the lovepop shop has a selection of 3D pop-up cards, including some, like the X-Wing, that are Star Wars themed. Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
Crowd Forecast
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Check out the Disney World Park Crowd Levels page on TouringPlans.com for park-specific predictions and recommendations on which days to visit and avoid particular parks! See Disney World crowds for the next 365 days. |
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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).
2018 Resort Events
- Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom:
- October 30 & 31
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – August 30 – November 12
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 1–4
- Holidays at Walt Disney World – begins November 8
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom:
- November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30
- December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – November 18 – December 30
- Candlelight Processional at Epcot – November 22 – December 30
- Disney's Hollywood Studios Flurry of Fun – November 8, 2018 – January 6, 2019
- Includes nightly presentations of Sunset Seasons Greetings and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!
- Toy Story Land gets special holiday songs on Alien Swirling Saucers and more
- Disney's Animal Kingdom – begins November 8
- Diwali, the holiday Festival of Lights in India, celebrated as part of the UP! A Great Bird Adventure show.
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom:
- MouseAdventure Remix (unofficial event) – November 10
- Mickey Mouse's 90th Birthday (celebrations likely) – November 18
- Dapper Day (unofficial events)
- November 17 – Disney's Animal Kingdom (until 3-5 p.m.) & Magic Kingdom (evening);
- November 18 – Epcot
- Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom:
- December 3 & 10: 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
- Disney Vacation Club Members Annual Meeting – December 13, 2018 (location and time to be announced)
2019 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom:
- January 7, 17, 24, & 28: 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
- February 14, March 7: 9 p.m.– midnight
- 2019 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 9–13, 2019
- Mickey & Minnie's Surprise Celebration at Magic Kingdom – January 18 – September 30, 2019
- Epcot International Festival of the Arts – January 18 – February 25, 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 Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 21–24, 2019.
- Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 6 – June 3, 2019
- Star Wars Rival Run Weekend – April 4–7, 2019.
- Disney's Hollywood Studios 30th anniversary – May 1, 2019.
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. If the menu bar does not work on your screen, please let us know by email (include which Browser and Operating System you are using)!
Magic Kingdom
- Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial – no longer listed in My Disney Experience (final show was September 29, 2018).
- Move it! Shake it! Dance & Play It! Street Party – shows are scheduled most days through December 1.
Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party” is scheduled to debut January 18, 2019, featuring new arrangements of classic “Mickey Mouse Club” songs - Liberty Square Riverboat – closed for refurbishment (return date is still unknown)
- Tom Sawyer Island – closed for refurbishment
- 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 – scheduled closure beginning in December 2018 to accomodate TRON construction
- Tomorrowland Speedway – scheduled 2019 closure for track adjustment to accomodate TRON construction (expected Summer reopening)
Epcot
- 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. Theater to be repurposed.
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – closing during the second half of 2019 for new nighttime spectacular.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away (stage show) – On hiatus. My Disney Experience lists next shows on November 18.
- Star Wars: Path of the Jedi – My Disney Experience lists as closed with no further information.
- The Great Movie Ride – Permanently closed August 13, 2017.
The new “Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway” attraction to open in Chinese Theatre in 2019. - Pixar Place area – Closed since just after the opening of Toy Story Land
New entrance to Toy Story Mania! and character encounters now inside Toy Story Land
Starting January 18, will become home to Mr. Incredible, Mrs. Incredible, Frozone & Edna Mode. - Disney Junior Live on Stage – Closed.
Disney Junior Dance Party scheduled to debut December 22, 2018..
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Flights of Wonder (Caravan Stage) – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
“UP! A Great Bird Adventure” starring Russell and Dug and their bird opened in its place on April 22, 2018. - Conservation Station – Rafiki's Planet Watch – Wildlife Express Train – now closed – planned reopening Spring 2019
Disney Water Parks
Disney's Blizzard Beach
- Closed for seasonal refurbishment as October 28, 2018, through January 5, 2019.
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon
- Closing for seasonal refurbishment January 6 – March 16, 2019.
Disney Springs
- DisneyQuest – Closed as of July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience expected to open Summer 2019. - Portobello Country Italian Trattoria – Closed April 24, 2017.
Terralina Crafted Italian has opened in its place. - La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
A new Cirque du Soleil show is now in development with its premiere date to be announced. - Wolfgang Puck Grand Café – closed August 1, 2017.
Location is being transformed into Jaleo, a restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine, expected to open 2018.
A new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill is under construction next door to the Coca-Cola Store, expected to open 2018.
Wolfgang Puck Express continues to operate in its existing location in the Marketplace.
Disney Resorts
- Caribbean Beach – The overall construction project at the Resort is expected to be completed 2019–20. Disney Parks Blog reported on the October 8, 2018, opening of the resort's new lobby, restaurants and other amenities, including Sebastian's Bistro, Centertown Market, and Banana Cabana.
- Coronado Springs
- A new 15-story tower overlooking Lago Dorado, the resort's central lake, will add 500 rooms featuring suites and concierge level services, and a rooftop dining facility that will include panoramic views of nighttime fireworks shows at the Theme Parks. The resort also plans to refurbish current resort rooms and transform some of its landscape. The project is expected to be completed 2019-20. Disney Parks Blog posted the latest renderings of the project in an article on October 16, 2018.
- Iguana Arcade is closed for refurbishment.
- Siestas Cantina poolside quick service dining location is closed for refurbishment
- Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Uzima Springs Pool Bar is closed for refurbishment.
Walt Disney World Golf
- No known closures.
Current Discounts and Promotions
Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers.
Walt Disney World Resort theme park tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Florida or eligible for U.S. Military Personnel benefits. It is increasingly true that non-Florida residents tend to benefit the most by purchasing tickets in advance (and, of course, being mindful of the rules relevant to those tickets). As prices go up, it becomes even more important to pay heed: Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside Disney property stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Walt Disney World Theme Park admissions, and may result in denial of entry. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or a travel agency like MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Today.
Be sure to move the calendar to at least seven (7) days out, to see what ticket options and discounts are available for your planned visit.
Just click the category you want to expand (or close).
For Everyone
Play, Stay, Dine and Save
You can Play, Stay, Dine and Save up to $500 for a family of four on a five-night/six-day Walt Disney Travel Company room, theme park ticket and dining plan package at a select Disney Resort hotel, for arrivals most nights January 1 through March 9, 2019. he number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited and may be booked through January 2, 2019. Read more about it on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Gift of Magic Offer
You can save 25 percent on rooms for stays most nights January 1 through April 27, 2019, at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels with the Gift of Magic offer. The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited and may be booked through January 2, 2019. Get more information on this page of DisneyWorld.com.
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 latest offerings during the 2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Passholder benefits during the Festival include:
- Passholders can obtain a new Chef Mickey Passholder magnet (with their Pass and Photo ID) on their first visit to the Festival Center at the theatre across from The Chocolate Experience: From Bean to the Bar, hosted by Ghirardelli.
- On a Passholder's fourth visit to Epcot during the Festival (tracked by entering the park with the Pass, not the Festival Center), Passholders can pick up a new Chef Mickey cutting board at the Festival Center.
For the most up-to-date list of locations offering dining discounts to Annual Passholders, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Many dining locations offer Passholders 10 percent discounts during some or all meal periods (also excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity).
Maria & Enzo's and Enzo's Hideaway at Disney Springs are now offering 40% off to Disney Annual Passholders during lunch through December 31st. Not valid with any other offer or during brunch.
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.
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for special events and tours at locations around Walt Disney World Resort.
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for sports, recreation, and spas around Walt Disney World Resort.
Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” 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.
Visit the DisneyWorld.com Special Offers page (filtered for Passholders) and log in with a My Disney Experience account linked to your Annual Pass for information, or call (407) 939-4232 to book by phone.
Additional information about available “Passholder Extras” are available here, including specially priced 1-Day Water Park Tickets for $49 plus tax (must be purchased in-person at the water parks and not available online; must be used on or before December 31, 2019), a new $35 Sunrise 9 golf offer (including nine holes of golf, a hot breakfast and two beverages between 7:00 and 8:30 a.m., subject to availability, at Disney Golf courses), a new $29 Sunset 9 golf offer (including nine holes of golf, a light snack and a beer or soft drink, subject to availability in the late afternoon at Disney Golf courses), an Orlando Magic Jersey Offer for purchasing or renewing an Annual Pass at Amway Center in Orlando, a 15 percent discount on the Ultimate Nights of Adventure VIP Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Spa & Salon Discounts around Walt Disney World Resort, Amphicar Tour discounts at Disney Springs, runDisney Early Registration discounts, Best Friends Pat Care discounts, Children's Activity Centers discounts, and more.
Away from the Resort, Passholders can use code DANCEPARTY to get 20 percent off of tickets to the new Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour in Jacksonville, Melbourne, Clearwater, and Sarasota Florida, for house seats while supplies last. Visit disneyjuniortour.com for more information and tickets.
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 Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot (enter near the jumping fountains near the exit to the Magic Eye Theater). You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the 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 Premier Visa card or Disney Rewards Visa card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
For Military Personnel
2018 Armed Forces Salute Tickets
January 1 through December 19, 2018
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets –$226.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $266.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $246.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $286.00
NOTE: Tickets must be used by December 19, 2018.
U.S. military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98 through December 19.
Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by eligible service members (as defined on Disney World.com) or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouse), and one ticket must be used by that member of the military (or spouse).
U.S. military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2018, for stays most nights from April 6 through December 19, 2018. Offer excludes moderate and deluxe resorts. Call (407)939-5684 for information and reservations.
Read more information at militarydisneytips.com, visit your base ticket office, or when at Walt Disney World, visit Shades of Green.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Florida Residents
Park Tickets
For currently available park tickets, passes and offers visit this page of DisneyWorld.com.
Florida residents can check out the latest hotel package offers 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.
MORE DETAILS WILL BE LISTED HERE SOON!
If you know of an offer that you think most Members do not know about, please drop us an email with the details.
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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