10 Ways For Tweens To Have Fun At Walt Disney World This Summer

Do you have a tween in your family that you will soon be bringing to Walt Disney World? You might be wondering what there is for kids this age to do, and most importantly, will they have fun so you can. Well, you’re in luck, because there are many things for your tween and the entire family to enjoy together this summer. Here’s a list of 10 unforgettable ways for tweens and their families to experience the magic, courtesy of Disney:


Families planning their next visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth are in for a real treat. That’s especially true for families with tweens. With roller coasters and thrill attractions of all kinds and so much more, tweens can explore new and classic experiences, soak up the sun and indulge in some tasty tastes. From the must-have family photo in front of Cinderella Castle with its new royal colors to character dining experiences with picture-perfect views, here are 10 ways for tweens and families to spring into summer while vacationing at Walt Disney World Resort this year:

  1. Blizzard Beach 4Splash into Fun at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park – This wintry-themed water park is celebrating the best summer ever in splashy style. It’s a great place to enjoy family fun together with big thrills for the kids and places for parents to relax.
  2. Discover Paradise at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – The tropical oasis along the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon is now accepting bookings for late July 2021. The reimagined guest rooms will surround guests with details, patterns and textures inspired by the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Moana.”
  3. Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden FestivalThe Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Blooms Through July 5 The event combines the freshest flowers and flavors from around the world, featuring fun for the whole family from garden-inspired cuisine to lifelike character topiaries and new Orange Bird merchandise to complement any selfie. Guests who miss this festival have no reason to worry. On July 15, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will kick off and run through November 20, offering plenty of family-friendly fun.
  4. Check Out the Royal Makeover of Cinderella Castle – The treasured icon at the heart of Magic Kingdom Park now features bold, shimmering and regal enhancements befitting its royal status. It makes a great photo backdrop with family and friends.
  5. Earth Week Celebration at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme ParkCelebrate the Magic of Nature – Explore Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, an immersive land featuring massive floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and unbelievable experiences including Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey. And from April 18 to 24, the park will connect guests with the magic of nature through Earth Week activities designed to educate, entertain and inspire the whole family.
  6. Find Disney Characters in New Places –From cavalcades to caravans to flotillas and even special “pop-up” appearances, guests of all ages can discover favorite friends at all four theme parks and occasional special surprise appearances at Disney Resort hotels.
  7. Mickey & Minnie's Runaway RailwayStep into an Adventure – At Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can step through a movie screen and into the cartoon world of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway They can also embark on an adventure in a galaxy far, far away at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the immersive, award-winning land featuring two thrilling attractions: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
  8. Here for the Food – Foodie options are limitless at Walt Disney World, whether sitting for a family meal or snacking between attractions. Guests can enjoy a family-style meal at Chef Mickey’s with Mickey Mouse and his pals at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or visit Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera at Disney’s Riviera Resort for a fun character dining experience during Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends and a beautiful view of Walt Disney World. EPCOT is another great place to grab a quick bite … or two … or three! The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival offers more than 20 Outdoor Kitchens where guests can sample tastes and sips as diverse as Avocado Toast and a Maple Popcorn Shake. Top off the experience with classic Disney Parks snacks – buttery popcorn and the classic Mickey Ice Cream Bar are Walt Disney World theme park favorites.
  9. Everglazed 4Stroll, Dine and Shop for the Perfect Gifat Disney Springs – Guests visiting this shopping, dining and entertainment destination have plenty of new options to satisfy even the most demanding tastes. Disney Style is the latest fashion-forward merchandise spot with a twist. Here, fashionistas find a curated assortment of trendy apparel and accessories inspired by beloved Disney characters and attractions. Tweens looking for a sweet treat can grab a handcrafted, photo-worthy donut at the newly opened Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew.
  10. Relax Outdoors – Central Florida weather is traditionally gorgeous this time of year, and Walt Disney World offers special ways to enjoy outdoor recreation, including miniature golf, fishing expeditions, horseback riding and more.

Have you traveled to Walt Disney World with a tween?
What did they enjoy the most? Please leave a comment!

Family Fun At The 2021 Taste Of EPCOT International Flower And Garden Festival

With spring in full swing, the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival recently kicked off in Walt Disney World. From now through July 5, 2021, guests can enjoy bright blooms, delicious flavors, and tons of family fun throughout EPCOT. Here’s a glimpse of what you and your family can enjoy this spring during the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, courtesy of Disney:

  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower and Garden FestivalTopiaries Full of Disney Character: Throughout the park you’ll see gorgeous topiaries of Disney characters blooming to life in floral sculptures. Highlights will include Remy in the France pavilion, Tinker Bell and the Fairy Houses in the United Kingdom, Lady and the Tramp in Italy and Sorcerer Mickey at the park’s reimagined main entrance.
  • Gardens to Explore: Soak in the sights of spring in 20 different garden areas all across EPCOT, including floating gardens on the waters of Future World, a bamboo garden in China, a tropical rainforest garden in Mexico and the English Tea Garden Presented by Twinings of London in the United Kingdom (where you can also take a Self-Guided Tea Tour!). Another picturesque spot is The Goodness Garden Butterfly House Presented by GoGo squeeZ, where you can view a kaleidoscope of butterflies up close, in all their extraordinary color. And at Outdoor Escapes Presented by OFF! Repellents in Future World East, you can unwind in refreshing spaces that show you just how easy it is to create an outdoor escape for family and friends.
  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower and Garden FestivalOutdoor Kitchens Galore: Embark on a mouth-watering journey around the park and discover a smorgasbord of options, with more than 20 delectable stops to choose from. Each Outdoor Kitchen offers a specialty menu of creative cuisine and libations to savor and sip. We’ll have more details to share in an upcoming post about all the foodie fun you can expect this year.
  • Entertainment All Around: The festival features plenty of live music every day. Voices of Liberty perform an all-American a cappella showcase, celebrating the landscape, heart and human spirit of America, and Mariachi Cobre takes the stage for a performance of world-famous Mexican folk music. You can also tap your toes to the sound of the Jammin’ Gardeners, performing rhythmic beats with inspired backyard percussion, and head into World Showplace, where the EPCOT Pianist will be playing a selection of songs of the season.
  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden FestivalHealth Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth: Looking for inspiration, creativity and some youthful energy? At the Flavor Full Outdoor Kitchen and garden along the Imagination Walkway, the whole family can learn ways to stay healthy.
  • Family Fun with Scavenger Hunt: Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is a springtime quest to find the buzzzz-iest honey bee at Walt Disney World Resort all around World Showcase.
  • Festival Memories: Commemorate your visit with official event merchandise, including apparel, headwear, drinkware and much more, featuring Orange Bird, Figment, Minnie Mouse and Spike the Bee.

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is included with park admission. With all that there is to see, do, and eat, you definitely won’t want to miss the fan favorite event!

Will you be attending the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival?
What are you most excited about? Please leave a comment!

Character Inspiration Makeovers - Sharon Judy

Want to become a Disney princess or villain? Character Inspiration Makeovers will make your dream come true!

The global pandemic has brought with it many changes to Walt Disney World including the temporary closure of the salons and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques throughout the resort. If you or someone in your family had their heart set on a princess transformation as a part of their Walt Disney World vacation, I’ve got great news for you!

Sharon Judy HairstylistMy friend and former Disney Cast Member, Sharon Judy, is currently doing Character Inspiration Makeovers. Sharon had a long history of working at Walt Disney World in the salons of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offering hair, nail, and make up services including Character Couture and Perfectly Princess Packages.

Sharon is now working her magic by visiting Walt Disney World guests of all ages both on and off property creating her signature Character Inspiration Makeovers right in their hotel rooms! How’s that for a little extra pixie dust?

Sharon is an expert in hair of all textures and types; her Character Inspiration Makeovers offer a wide variety of options including buns, curls, updos with sparkles, flowers, or a tiara plus character inspired make up and nails. 

Prices for children age 10 and under start at $50 for a hairstyle, $35 for age appropriate make up, and $15 for nails. Prices for everyone age 11 and over start at $75 for a hairstyle, $50 for age appropriate make up, and $15 for nails. Sharon’s services can be booked separately and there is no traveling fee.

If you are interested in booking a Character Inspiration Makeover with Sharon or would like additional information, please reach out to her via text at 407-301-2707. Be sure to check her out on Instagram @sharonjudyhairstylist to see even more images of her magical princess and villain transformations!

Jasmine InspirationWhat People Are Saying About Sharon

“Sharon is amazing. I highly recommend.” ~Liz

“Highly highly recommend Sharon!” ~Lory

“Sharon is great! Highly recommend!” ~Susan

“Highly recommended! She’s wonderful.” ~Angela

“Sharon did my hair a couple months ago and she was amazing!” ~Fiona

Fairytale Wedding 1Additional Services Offered

Sharon is a full service stylist with Lavender The Spa in Celebration that can help you with any of your hair, make up, and nail needs. In addition to her popular Character Inspiration Makeovers, Sharon often does hair and make up for wedding parties of all sizes. For more information about her wedding services, please contact Sharon via text at 407-301-2707 with your questions.

Lavender The Spa
605 Front Street
Celebration, Florida 34747
877-291-7114 ext 1

Will you be booking a Character Inspiration Makeover?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Halloween Party

2020 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 13 through November 1.

Here are the dates for 2020:

  • August 13, 18, 21, 25, 28
  • September 1, 4, 7, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29
  • October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 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 $85. 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!

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Pass Now On Sale

Exciting news for Disney locals and out of town guests that are planning a visit during the Halloween season…Walt Disney World is offering an amazing Mickey’s Not Scary Halloween Party Pass this year. I will be visiting the resort a couple of times during the fall and thought about purchasing the pass myself. It offers access to every Halloween party except Halloween night for the price of about $313 including tax per adult. In order to break even or for it to be a savings, I would need to attend 3 to 4 parties depending on the dates. I was already planning on attending two parties, so I decided to see if there were any other party nights during my stays, as it turns out there are not, so for me the decision to purchase or not was easy. Definitely run the math for your visit, because you may find this Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Pass is perfect for you.

The Halloween Party itself as well as the Halloween Party Pass offer many perks and benefits like early entrance to Magic Kingdom at 4pm on the afternoon of your party, lower wait times on many favorites attractions, unique character greetings, holiday foods and treats, scary lighting and music throughout the park, spooky overlays to select attractions, plus the stage show, parade and fireworks display that are exclusive to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Here are the details of the Halloween Party Pass courtesy of Disney:

For the 2019 not-so-spooky season, Walt Disney World Resort is introducing the new Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Pass, giving families the opportunity to experience Mickey’s-Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park for up to 35 nights.

For these passholders, this means more of everything they love about Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – more nights, more special attractions and entertainment, more eerie experiences, more sweets and more family fun than any trick-or-treater could possibly imagine. For $299 per adult (plus tax) or $284 (plus tax) for children, Disney guests can get in the “spirit” of this bewitching season more than ever. Note: This pass is not valid for admission on October 31, 2019.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event that takes place after normal park hours. This year it will take place on a record number of select nights in 2019 from now through November 1. A new fireworks, projection and laser show – “Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular” – joins such fan favorites as “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade,” the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show, Disney characters in their finest Halloween garb and trick-or-treating throughout the park.

The frightfully festive fun also includes spellbinding décor, spooky lighting and spine-tingling music park-wide. Children are encouraged to dress in costumes, and party guests are treated to several Magic Kingdom rides and attractions tricked out in the spirit of the season just for the party.

A great value for Florida residents and families, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Pass invites guests to visit again and again for Halloween fun as only Disney can scare up. This pass is only available, in limited quantities, and can be purchased at any Walt Disney World theme park ticket window; guests with an existing event ticket can modify to a Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Season Pass by calling 407-939-4295 or visiting any Walt Disney World theme park ticket window.

If you are thinking of taking advantage of this incredible offer, here are the party dates that are included with your Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Season Pass:

  • August 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
  • November 1

Happy Halloween, and I hope to see you there!

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 getting the Halloween Party Pass this year?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!