Halloween Party

2019 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets Now On Sale

This year Magic Kingdom is celebrating the Halloween season with the annual family friendly Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights August 16 through November 1.

Here are the dates for 2019:

  • 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

The party is held at Magic Kingdom from 7pm to 12am.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a lively and light-hearted experience and it is truly a family friendly event. There are special parades, exciting dance parties, stunning fireworks, and tons of trick-or-treating stations filled with candy for everyone! Adults and children alike get into the spirit of the event by dressing in costume, trick-or-treating, and dancing the night away with all of the characters. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets start at $79. You’ll want to purchase your tickets as soon as possible if you plan to attend, because they do sell out. To buy tickets, please click here or call 407-827-7350.

Please keep in mind Disney’s costume policy (from the official website):

While we encourage creativity, we also value safety and good judgment. If you’re planning to attend these special holiday events, take a moment to read over our latest rules and regulations:

General

  • Disney reserves the right to deny admission to or remove any person wearing attire that is considered inappropriate or attire that could detract from the experience of other Guests.
  • All Guests may dress as their favorite character, but may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other Guests.
  • Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
  • Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
  • Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest.
  • Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards.

For Guests ages 13 and under:

  • Costumes and some masks may be worn, as long as the mask does not cover the entire face and eyes are visible. 

For Guests ages 14 and older:

  • Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening.
  • Costumes may not reach or drag on the ground. (e.g.,full-length Princess dresses) 
  • Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist. 
  • Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts, and hats are acceptable. 
  • Acceptable accessories include: transparent wings, plastic light sabers, toy swords, and tutus. Headwear may be worn as long as it does not cover the face. 
  • Masks of any kind may not be worn. 

 Here’s a little video from the party to get you in the spirit!

Have you been to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!

New IllumiNations Dining Package Now At Epcot

With so many changes at Walt Disney World over the last few months and years, it’s always difficult to say good-bye to a nostalgic favorite, but that’s what we’ll all have to do later this year when we bid farewell to IllumiNations. If you are planning on catching the nighttime spectacular at Epcot one last time before it ends its run, you might want to consider the new offering from Disney – The IllumiNations Dining Package.

With this package currently being offered now through late summer, you can enjoy a delicious dinner while seated at the lagoon-side patio of Rose & Crown as you take in the mesmerizing show.

Guests will dine on a prix fixe menu that includes favorite Rose & Crown dishes as well as unlimited alcoholic beverages for the over 21 crowd (valid ID required). The meal begins with your choice of a Scotch Egg or the United Kingdom Cheese Platter, followed by entrees including Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips, Corned Beef and Cabbage, or Pan-roasted Scottish Salmon, and for dessert, a tasty trio featuring Sticky Toffee Pudding, Chocolate Nougat Bar, and English Trifle. The children’s menu starts off with a choice of soup or salad, followed by their choice of Fish and Chips, Cheesy Pasta, Cheese and Turkey Flatbread or Meatball Pasta, and wraps up a choice of English Trifle or fruit salad.

Pricing is $85 per adult (ages 10 and up) and $35 per child (ages 3 to 9), with tax and gratuity included. For more information or to make a reservation, call 407-939-3463 or click here.

Important Policy Information For The IllumiNations Dining Package, Courtesy of Disney:
  • Epcot park admission is required and is not included in the price of the IllumiNations Dining Package.
  • Dining plan entitlements may not be redeemed for this offering.
  • Check-in begins at 8:00 PM—60 minutes prior to the show. This dining experience will last approximately 90 minutes, ending when the show ends.
  • Advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit.
  • On rare occasions, evening entertainment may be rescheduled or canceled. Please consult the entertainment schedule or call (407) 939-3463 at least 2 weeks prior to arrival to reconfirm showtime. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.
  • It is highly recommended that Guests check the schedule again upon arrival at Epcot.
  • The venue is uncovered and outdoors. In the event of inclement weather, this experience will take place in a covered area outdoors.
  • All menu items are subject to change and the experience may be changed or canceled without prior notice.
  • Guests must be at least 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please keep a valid form of identification on hand at all times to verify your age.
  • Guests who do not cancel their reservation within 48 hours of the event will forfeit the entire price of the dining package.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be seeing IllumiNations before it ends later this year?
Please leave a comment!

Helpful Information For Your August 2019 Disney World Vacation

So you are planning a vacation to Disney World in August 2019?
August is a wonderful time to visit Walt Disney World!

Weather

The weather in Disney World during August is hot and rainy. The average high is about 92 degrees, the average low is about 73 degrees and the average rainfall is about 7.71 inches. You can expect some rain most afternoons or evenings, so be sure to bring your poncho!

Crowds

The crowds in August are moderate at the beginning of the month as families enjoy vacationing during the last few weeks of summer break. By the end of the month, the crowds drop off dramatically as kids head back to school.

Magic Kingdom Welcome ShowAugust 1 – August 3
Average Crowd Level 5.0 out of 10
August 4 – August 10
Average Crowd Level 5.7 out of 10
August 11 – August 17
Average Crowd Level 4.9 out of 10
August 18 – August 24
Average Crowd Level 3.7 out of 10
August 25 – August 31
Average Crowd Level 1.7 out of 10

Magic Kingdom ClockPark Hours

Magic Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Epcot
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Hollywood Studios
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Animal Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)

For specific hours on each day during August, please click this link. Remember that park hours are subject to change and are often adjusted two weeks prior.

Events

On Thursday and Saturday evenings during the summer, Disney will be throwing a glowing pool party at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

On select nights beginning in August, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party will be held at Magic Kingdom. This party is a lively, light-hearted, family friendly event. There are special parades, exciting dance parties, stunning fireworks and tons of trick-or-treating stations filled with candy for everyone! Adults and children alike really get into the spirit of the event by dressing in costume, trick-or-treating and dancing the night away with all of the characters.

Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival will begin late August. Last year’s festival featured 197 chefs and included more than 35 food and beverage marketplaces scattered around World Showcase, signature dining experiences, food and beverage demonstrations and music concerts.

Refurbishments

Periodically throughout the year, Disney closes attractions for refurbishments and enhancements. Here are the currently scheduled closures during August (subject to change without notice):

Epcot Mission SpaceMagic Kingdom
Tron Themed Attraction: Opening in 2021

Epcot
Guardians of the Galaxy Themed Attraction: Opening in 2021
Ratatouille Attraction: Opening in 2021
Space Themed Table Service Restaurant: TBD

Hollywood Studios
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway: Opening in 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Opening Late Fall 2019

Animal Kingdom
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Water Parks
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Disney Springs
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Planning Tips

If you are traveling to Disney World in August 2019, your planning is probably well under way at this point. Here’s a checklist to make sure you are on track:

  • Make sure you have created your My Disney Experience account. If you haven’t, click here to sign up now.
  • If you haven’t already made your dining reservations, be sure to make them now by clicking here.
  • If you are staying on site, be sure to customize your MagicBand on your My Disney Experience account by picking the color and adding your name. And if you really want to make your MagicBand special, personalize it with your own custom designed MagicBand Skin from Magic YOUR Band. Click here to get started!
  • Now is a great time to research what attractions you and your family would like to see at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Because Walt Disney World is so large, it is very difficult to see everything during one trip, so be sure to get everyone’s top priorities. This is also a great time to begin looking at menus for counter service restaurants so that you have an idea of which locations serve foods that your entire family will enjoy.
  • Whether you are staying on site or off-property, be sure to purchase your admission tickets and link them to your My Disney Experience account.
  • 501 WaysOnce your tickets are linked and at exactly 60 days in advance of your check in date (7am EST time) if you are staying on site or 30 days in advance for all other guests, login to your My Disney Experience account and book your Fastpass+ reservations.
  • If you are staying on site, be sure to check in online at 60 days out from your arrival date.
  • Double check your flight times and if you will be using Disney’s Magical Express for your airport transportation make your reservation at least 60 days in advance by clicking here.
  • It’s never too early to start creating a packing list so that you don’t forget anything.
  • Need more help planning? Please check out my UPDATED book 501 Ways to Make the Most of Your Walt Disney World Vacation, for hundreds of insider tips and secrets for having the most magical Disney World vacation possible!

Special Offers

If you haven’t already made your August 2019 reservations, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save money:

Join The Fun

Next Disney VacationDisney Vacation Planner Jennifer Hardy and I have teamed up to create a new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Everyday you’ll find posts, photos, trivia, tips, and more that we find all throughout the Disney Universe. If you’re counting the days until your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of one, we would love to have you join in the fun! Please click here to be a part of our group!

Have a magical vacation!

Independence Day

Helpful Information For Your July 2019 Disney World Vacation

So you are planning a vacation to Disney World in July 2018?
July is a wonderful time to visit Walt Disney World!

Weather

The weather in Disney World during July is hot and rainy. The average high is about 92 degrees, the average low is about 73 degrees, and the average rainfall is about 7.05 inches. You can expect some rain most afternoons or evenings, so be sure to bring your poncho!

Crowds

The crowds in July are moderate throughout most of the month as traveling families enjoy vacationing during summer break while local families stay home avoiding the heat. Be sure to watch out for more visitors on July 4 especially at Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios as people flock to the Parks to celebrate Independence Day.

Magic Kingdom Welcome ShowJuly 1 – July 6
Average Crowd Level 6.0 out of 10
July 7 – July 13
Average Crowd Level 4.3 out of 10
July 14 – July 20
Average Crowd Level 5.1 out of 10
July 21 – July 27
Average Crowd Level 5.3 out of 10
July 28 – July 31
Average Crowd Level 5.3 out of 10

Magic Kingdom ClockPark Hours

Magic Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 10pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Epcot
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Hollywood Studios
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Animal Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)

For specific hours on each day during July, please click this link. Remember that park hours are subject to change and are often adjusted two weeks prior.

Events

If you are visiting for the 4th of July, Disney always has additional offerings to celebrate the holiday. You can count on themed merchandise and foods, extended park hours, and enhanced fireworks displays at Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios to celebrate the occasion.

On Thursday and Saturday evenings during the summer, Disney will be throwing a glowing pool party at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

 

Refurbishments

Periodically throughout the year, Disney closes attractions for refurbishments and enhancements. Here are the currently scheduled closures during July (subject to change without notice):

Magic Kingdom
Tron Themed Attraction: Opening in 2021
Walt Disney World Railroad: December 2018 – Summer 2019

Epcot
Guardians of the Galaxy Themed Attraction: Opening in 2021
Ratatouille Attraction: Opening in 2021
Space Themed Table Service Restaurant: TBD

Hollywood Studios
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway: Opening in 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Opening in Fall 2019

Animal Kingdom
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Water Parks
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Disney Springs
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Planning Tips

If you are traveling to Disney World in July 2019, your planning is probably well under way at this point. Here’s a checklist to make sure you are on track:

  • Make sure you have created your My Disney Experience account. If you haven’t, click here to sign up now.
  • If you haven’t already made your dining reservations, be sure to make them now by clicking here.
  • If you are staying on site, be sure to customize your MagicBand on your My Disney Experience account by picking the color and adding your name. And if you really want to make your MagicBand special, personalize it with your own custom designed MagicBand Skin from Magic YOUR Band. Click here to get started!
  • Now is a great time to research what attractions you and your family would like to see at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Because Walt Disney World is so large, it is very difficult to see everything during one trip, so be sure to get everyone’s top priorities. This is also a great time to begin looking at menus for counter service restaurants so that you have an idea of which locations serve foods that your entire family will enjoy.
  • Whether you are staying on site or off-property, be sure to purchase your admission tickets and link them to your My Disney Experience account.
  • 501 WaysOnce your tickets are linked and at exactly 60 days in advance of your check in date (7:00am EST time) if you are staying on site or 30 days in advance for all other guests, login to your My Disney Experience account and book your Fastpass+ reservations.
  • If you are staying on site, be sure to check in online at 60 days out from your arrival date.
  • Double check your flight times and if you will be using Disney’s Magical Express for your airport transportation make your reservation at least 60 days in advance by clicking here.
  • It’s never too early to start creating a packing list so that you don’t forget anything.
  • Need more help planning? Please check out my UPDATED book 501 Ways to Make the Most of Your Walt Disney World Vacation, for hundreds of insider tips and secrets for having the most magical Disney World vacation possible!

Special Offers

If you haven’t already made your July 2019 reservations, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save money:

Join The Fun

Next Disney VacationDisney Vacation Planner Jennifer Hardy and I have teamed up to create a new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Everyday you’ll find posts, photos, trivia, tips, and more that we find all throughout the Disney Universe. If you’re counting the days until your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of one, we would love to have you join in the fun! Please click here to be a part of our group!

Have a magical vacation!

Celebrating Valentine’s Day 2019 In Walt Disney World

If you are one of those lucky people who will be celebrating your love in Walt Disney World this year on Valentine’s Day, you have lots of romantic options available. Here are just some of the many possibilities available courtesy of Disney:


Now, more than ever, Walt Disney World Resort is a great romantic destination for couples on Valentine’s Day – or those celebrating their love any day of the year. Throughout the theme parks, resort hotels and beyond, couples in love will find a wide range of experiences to enjoy together, from quaint to luxurious and everything in between.

Romantic meals, magical nighttime shows, pampering spa treatments and more await across the 40-square-mile resort. Here are just a few of the options for couples:

Polynesian Village ResortIncredible Resort Hotels – The fantastical and faraway themes of Disney resort hotels are the perfect setting for guests to live their own fairy tales with those they love. Superior service, breathtaking views and exclusive perks – like in-room celebrations – make a stay at a Disney resort hotel a magical experience for couples. 

Dining Options for All Palates  Couples will find a plethora of options for meals infused with romance:

  • Several restaurants around Epcot offer relaxed yet upscale atmospheres combined with delectable bites and sips. For instance, guests can enjoy savory steaks and seafood in a cozy wine-cellar setting at Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion or indulge in delectable seafood while enjoying views of a living coral reef at Coral Reef Restaurant.
  • Wine Bar George at Disney Springs offers a casual, romantic evening – especially for wine aficionados, with more than 130 selections handpicked by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. Additionally, many Disney Springs restaurants will offer special menus on Valentine’s Day, including Paradiso 37, Terralina Crafted Italian, Maria and Enzo’s, and STK.
  • Couples can step into the golden age of Hollywood at The Hollywood Brown Derby in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The upscale atmosphere combined with signature classic dishes creates a wonderful ambiance for a romantic meal.
  • Restaurants at Disney resort hotels offer a wide variety of delicious dining experiences. The newly opened Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach makes a good setting for a casual yet romantic evening with tropical vibes and gorgeous waterfront views. Other good options for couples include The Wave… of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which serves up fresh cuisine in a stylish setting, and Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, which treats couples to Southern hospitality and New Orleans favorites.
  • Guests can enjoy a fun date night that includes dinner and a show with a Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Package. As part of Epcot International Festival of the Arts, this package combines a delicious meal at one of five delectable restaurants as well as guaranteed seating to enjoy a showcase of iconic Disney on Broadway songs at the Disney on Broadway Concert Series. This experience runs through February 25.

Plus, sweet treats for that special someone will be found across the resort on Valentine’s Day, including a Lady & the Tramp cupcake at Epcot and an array of desserts and cupcakes at select Disney resort hotels. 

Massages and More A spa day encourages couples to relax while indulging in massages, facials, skin therapies and other special treatments. Plus, Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa both offer a “Spa for Two” package that includes custom massages and pedicures.

Gifts to Say I Love You – The vast selection of merchandise available across Walt Disney World provides Valentine’s Day gift options of every shape, size, color and type.

Adorable Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Valentine Plush are a great choice. For the jewelry lover, guests can pick up a Lady & the Tramp Bangle by Alex and Ani. And if a couple is celebrating recent nuptials, they should snag classic bride-and-groom Minnie and Mickey ears!

For something extra special, romantics should contact the Dream Makers at Disney Floral and Gifts and arrange for in-room celebrations at their resort hotels. These one-of-a-kind experiences can include floral arrangements, champagne and more. Guests can arrange their celebration by clicking here or by calling 407-939-4438.

Share a View on the World – Guests aboard Aerophile – The World Leader in Balloon Flight at Disney Springs experience incredible views of the dining, shopping and entertainment the complex has to offer, as well as sights across Walt Disney World. A trip up in the air in the tethered balloon makes for a wonderful romantic addition to a night out.

Romance at Sea There is something particularly romantic about a trip aboard a private yacht or other watercraft cruising from one of the marinas across Walt Disney World. The pinnacle nautical experience takes place aboard the Grand 1 Yacht, where you can enjoy spectacular fireworks views complete with private dining and butler amenities. Or guests can take a relaxing day cruise from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort along the waters of Crescent Lake and the World Showcase Lagoon at Epcot. To reserve a cruise, guests should call 407-939-7529.

Get Back to Nature – Couples who love animals can embark on the Savor the Savanna: Evening Safari Experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This private tour includes views of the animals on the savanna, as well as a sampling of African-inspired food, paired with a selection of beer and wine. To book, guests can call 407-WDW-TOUR.

A Place for Kids – Couples traveling with their children can have a romantic night to themselves while the kids get a night on the town all their own at Pixar Play Zone. This immersive, Pixar-themed evening of games, characters, food and fun at Disney’s Contemporary Resort allows children ages 4-12 to learn the ways of the Wild West at Woody’s Roundup, participate in Space Ranger Training, build a race car to compete in the Piston Cup Challenge and more. This experience is available through March 30.

Say “I Do” The ultimate in Disney romance is a wedding ceremony at Walt Disney World Resort. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings can make all of a couple’s dreams come true on their special day.

Magical locations inside the theme parks and around the resort provide gorgeous backdrops for couples to exchange vows and celebrate their love with family and friends. From the enchanting Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to the iconic Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park, the options are limitless.

Married couples can join in the fun, too, with a trip to Walt Disney World to spend their honeymoon, renew their vows or celebrate anniversaries.

For more information on Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, guests can call 321-939-4623 or click here.


501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be celebrating Valentine’s Day in Disney World?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!