2018 Epcot International Food And Wine Signature Dining Events Now On Sale

For all of you “foodies” out there, reservations for the Epcot Signature Dining Events offered as a part of this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival are now available. Book now remember space is limited!

Mexican Tequila Lunch – La Hacienda de San Angel, Mexico Pavilion

Savor south-of-the-border cuisine paired with the fiery taste of tequila!

As you indulge in the authentic aromas and gourmet ingredients of a 4-course Mexican meal, you’re invited to celebrate your senses as you sample from a diverse range of tequila and mezcal selections—each carefully chosen to complement the spices found in these unique, regionally themed dishes. It’s an unforgettable epicurean adventure—one that explains the history of agave spirits and the subtle nuances found this series. Get ready to eat, drink… and merrily sing “Olé!”

Where: La Hacienda de San Angel, Mexico at Epcot®

Dates: August: 30, 31
September: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
October: 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31
November: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9

Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Price: $85.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Italian Food, Wine Vs. Beer Pairing at Via Napoli – Via Napoli, Italy Pavilion

Discover authentic Italian dishes with an original twist, each expertly prepared and served with regional beverages.

Guests will eat, stay and love an amazing menu filled with robust flavors adored the world over. Sit down to a 5-course gourmet meal paired with the chef’s own impeccable selection of Italian wines and craft beer—all chosen to complement his/her original recipes. One taste is all it takes to see why Italian cuisine warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Mangiare!

Where: Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria, Italy at Epcot®

Dates: September: 25, 27
October: 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
November: 1, 6, 8

Time: 1:30PM – 4:15PM

Price: $88.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Italian Regional Food & Wine Pairing Luncheon – Tutto Gusto, Italy Pavilion

Gather in a rustic wine cellar as Italy’s finest food and drink are paired in perfect harmony.

Amidst the Tuscan-style stone walls, luncheon Guests are in for the ultimate dining experience. Savor a spectacular 5-course meal of epicurean delights—all served with select wines chosen for their distinct yet complementary flavors. Capturing the true essence of the country’s rich culture, your chef promises to prepare an authentic Italian meal that’s pure perfezione.

Where: Tutto Gusto at Tutto Italia Ristorante, Italyat Epcot®

Dates: September: 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26
October: 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31
November: 5, 7

Time: 12:00PM – 2:30PM

Price: $99.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Parisian Breakfast – Chefs de France, France Pavilion

Start the day with fabulous fresh-baked goodness, from baguettes and croissants to patisserie-perfect pain au chocolat.

Wake up and smell the petit déjeuner! Guests are invited to sip cappuccino, hot chocolate or amazing French sparkling mimosas all while indulging in an authentic Parisian breakfast buffet that’s deliciously decadent. Be sure to slather a bit of confiture on your baguette for a traditional tartine. With buttery croissants, pastries and more, your first meal of the day will never be the same!

Where: Chefs de France

Dates: September: 22, 29
October: 6, 13, 20, 27
November: 3, 10

Time: 9:15AM – 10:30AM

Price: $40.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

French Family Meal Traditions – Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion

From hors d’oeuvres to entrées, experience authentic French fare just like Maman used to make.

There’s no place like home—whether it’s Avignon, Lyon or Vendôme! As the chefs at Monsieur Paul share their treasured family recipes, Guests will experience a culinary adventure that’s deliciously nostalgic. Each dish is created with traditional Le Creuset cast iron pots for a rustic, family-style meal. Masterfully paired with the perfect wines, these magnifique meals promise to take you on a tasty trip through some of the country’s most famous places.

Where: Monsieur Paul

Dates: October: 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28
November: 2, 4, 9, 11

Time: 12:00PM – 3:30PM

Price: $95.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

The Parisian Afternoon, Sandwiches, Macarons and Bubbles! – Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion

C’est merveilleux… indulge in heavenly morsels from Monsieur Paul, the culinary jewel of the France pavilion.

Love is in the fare! From finger sandwiches and savory mignardises to melt-in-your-mouth macarons and an assortment of delicate petit fours, both foodies and Francophiles alike will feel as if they’ve been whisked away to a dreamy bistro along la Rive Gauche. Take a respite from your Epcot adventures to relax, sip unlimited mimosas and nibble our magnifique medley of treats—it’s a Parisian-style afternoon that’s ooo-la-la-luscious!

Where: Monsieur Paul

Dates: September: 29
October: 6, 13, 20, 27
November: 3, 10

Time: 1:30PM – 3:30PM

Price: $55.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

The “Hibachi” Experience: Iron Chef – Teppan Edo, Japan Pavilion

Eat, drink and be amazed while these culinary masters show off some seriously delicious skills.

Watch the spirit of Japanese cuisine come to life! Guests are in for an unforgettable dining experience as the restaurant’s “performing” chefs add a modern twist to traditional cooking techniques. This amazing 5-course culinary adventure features Wagyu beef, seafood and poultry. Prepared communal-style at your table, each dish is served with sake that complement the meal’s exotic flavors. Surrounded by authentic Japanese décor, you’ll feel as if you’re in the Land of the Rising Sun—tanoshimimasu!

Where: Teppan Edo, Nihonbashi Dining Room, at the Japan Pavilion

Dates: October: 1, 15, 29
November: 5

Time: 4:00PM – 6:00PM

Price: $180.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Tokyo Pairing – Tokyo Dining, Japan Pavilion

Sample exquisitely prepared meals that showcase the Land of the Rising Sun’s creative presentation.

Itadakimasu! Amidst a modern setting, Guests will dine on 3 traditional courses perfectly paired with sake and other thirst-quenching libations. The authentic menu exemplifies a seamless fusion of harmony, culture and culinary art—including Wagyu beef, lobster tail, and Blue Fin sushi. From the first bite to the last sip, don’t miss this amazing medley of flavors—each delicious dish is sure to please the most sophisticated palate!

Where: Tokyo Dining, Japan at Epcot®

Dates: October: 4, 11, 18, 25
November: 1, 8

Time: 4:00PM – 6:00PM

Price: $160.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Mediterranean Food & Wine Pairing – Spice Road Table, Morocco Pavilion

Discover the magic of Mediterranean dining as our gourmet chefs bring an array of zesty recipes to life.

Guests are treated to expertly prepared gourmet cuisine that showcases the unique flavors of Morocco, the Mediterranean and beyond. Paired with the perfect wine, each delicious meat and seafood dish embodies the cultural diversity and spirit of this region—you’ll feel like you’ve been swept away to the shores of an amazing epicurean adventure! This experience will also include a sparkling wine reception prior to the event. This is a four tasting size course.

Where: Spice Road Table, Morocco at Epcot®

Dates: September: 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26
October: 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31
November: 5, 7, 12

Time: 1:00PM – 3:00PM

Price: $65.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

For more information or to make reservations, please click here or call 407-939-3378.

Heading to Disney World soon?

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

Have you attended a signature dining event? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Halloween Party

Helpful Information For Your October 2018 Disney World Vacation

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

Weather

The weather in Disney World during October is mild and mostly dry. The average high is about 84 degrees, the average low is about 66 degrees and the average rainfall is about 2.52 inches. The evenings can get a little chilly, so be sure to pack a few of your favorite Disney hoodies!

Crowds

The crowds in October are still fairly low as kids are back in school. However, several school districts throughout the US have a fall break during the month of October that can sometimes cause the crowd levels to rise slightly especially over the weekends and Columbus Day week.

October 1 – October 6
Average Crowd Level 5.2 out of 10
October 7 – October 13
Average Crowd Level 7.6 out of 10
October 14 – October 20
Average Crowd Level 6.9 out of 10
October 21 – October 27
Average Crowd Level 5.1 out of 10
October 28 – October 31
Average Crowd Level 4.8 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 – 8pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Animal Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 8pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)

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

Events

On select nights in October, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is 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. For more information, please click here.

Epcot International Food & Wine FestivalOne of the best things about visiting Disney World in October is the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. Last year’s festival featured 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. For more information, please click here.

Refurbishments

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

Magic Kingdom
Tron Themed Attraction: Opening in 2021

Happy HalloWishes Fireworks ShowEpcot
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 2019

Animal Kingdom
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Water Parks
Blizzard Beach: October 28, 2018 – January 5, 2019

Disney Springs
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Planning Tips

If you are traveling to Disney World in October 2018, 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 book UPDATED FOR 2018 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 October 2018 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!

Christmas

2018 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets Now On Sale

2018 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets are now on sale!

Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party include:

November 8, 9, 16, 25, 27, 29, December 2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13 and 16: $99 plus tax (ages 10+), $94 plus tax (ages 3-9)
November 12, 13 and 15: $95 plus tax (ages 10+), $90 plus tax (ages 3-9)
November 30, December 7 and 14: $109 plus tax (ages 10+), $104 plus tax (ages 3-9)
December 18 and 20: $115 plus tax (ages 10+), $110 plus tax (ages 3-9)
December 21: $125 plus tax (ages 10+), $120 plus tax (ages 3-9)

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

Christmas

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a festive and heart warming experience for the entire family. There is a special holiday parade, entertaining shows, spectacular fireworks, hot chocolate and cookies, character dance parties and even snow on Main Street! You’ll want to purchase your tickets as soon as possible if you plan to attend, because they do sell out. Please click here to purchase now!

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:

Have you been to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!

Why not celebrate the holiday in style? Check out these cute shirts; I love mine!
Please CLICK HERE to purchase now!

Spaceship Earth

Helpful Information For Your September 2018 Disney World Vacation

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

Weather

The weather in Disney World during September is warm and mildly rainy. The average high is about 90 degrees, the average low is about 72 degrees and the average rainfall is about 5.09 inches. You can expect a little rain during your vacation, so be sure to bring your poncho!

Crowds

The crowds in September drop dramatically as kids head back to school. This month has the lowest crowd levels of the year.

Magic Kingdom Welcome ShowSeptember 1
Average Crowd Level 6.0 out of 10
September 2 – September 8
Average Crowd Level 3.6 out of 10
September 9 – September 15
Average Crowd Level 2.7 out of 10
September 16 – September 22
Average Crowd Level 3.9 out of 10
September 23 – September 29
Average Crowd Level 4.4 out of 10
September 30
Average Crowd Level 3.0 out of 10

Magic Kingdom ClockPark Hours

Magic Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 8pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Epcot
Open most days from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Hollywood Studios
Open most days from 9am – 8pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Animal Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 8pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)

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

Events

MNSSHP 1On select nights during September, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is 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. For more information, please click here.

Epcot International Food & Wine FestivalOne of the best things about visiting Disney World in September is the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. 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. For more information, please click here.

Refurbishments

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

Magic 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 September 2018, 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 book UPDATED FOR 2018 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 September 2018 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!

Candlelight Processional

2018 Epcot International Festival Of The Holidays Dates Announced

Did you hear the exciting news? Disney has announced the date’s for this year’s Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. This festive and heart warming event will return to the park November 18 through December 30. The Candlelight Processional also returns this year and for the first time, the popular holiday tradition will open for Thanksgiving on November 22 and run through December 30.

According to DisneyThe Epcot International Festival of the Holidays invites guests to discover holiday cheer throughout the park and across all 11 World Showcase pavilions. Special entertainment, storytellers, seasonal favorites at Holiday Kitchens, and eye-catching holiday decor are all part of the fun. Evenings during this time are topped off with a special holiday presentation of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.” The Candlelight Processional, a holiday must-do for many Epcot guests, is a retelling of the traditional Christmas story read by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a massed choir and live orchestra.

No other information has been released yet, but remember to check back often as I will share more details as soon as they are announced!

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 visiting during the Epcot International Festival Of The Holidays?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!