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Disney World Valentine's Day
Sep 30 2015

Helpful Information For Your February 2016 Disney World Vacation

So you are planning a vacation to Disney World in February 2016?
February is a wonderful time to visit Walt Disney World!

Mickey Mouse Dressed For WinterWeather

The weather in Disney World during February can get chilly. The average high is about 73 degrees, the average low is about 50 degrees, and the average rainfall is about 2.71 inches. This is one the coldest months of the year, and it can sometimes drop into the 40’s. Be sure to pack accordingly!

Crowds

The crowds in February vary from low to high. President’s Day Weekend the crowds are high and during the rest of the month the crowds are low to moderate.

Magic Kingdom Welcome ShowFebruary 1 – February 6
Average Crowd Level 4.2 out of 10
February 7 – February 13
Average Crowd Level 6.1 out of 10
February 14 – February 20
Average Crowd Level 8.7 out of 10
February 21 – February 27
Average Crowd Level 4.9 out of 10
February 28 – February 29
Average Crowd Level 6.5 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 – 7pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
Animal Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 5pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)

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

Events

Valentines DayIf you will be celebrating Valentine’s Day in Disney World, there are so many wonderful ways to enjoy the holiday. Try a couples treatment at one of the spas, a romantic fireworks cruise or dessert party, a delicious meal at one of the many signature restaurants, a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride at Fort Wilderness or Port Orleans, an exciting married proposal on the beach at the Polynesian Village Resort during Wishes, and then top your evening off with a thoughtful gift from Disney Floral delivered to right to your room like this adorable “Minnie’s Garden”. For more Valentine’s Day gift ideas from Disney Floral, please click here.

Refurbishments

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

Magic Kingdom
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: January 18 – February 11, 2016
Mad Tea Party: February 22 – February 26, 2016
Magic Carpets of Aladdin: January 25 – February 3, 2016

Valentines Day 2Epcot
Frozen Ever After: October 5 – May 1, 2016
Soarin’: January 4 – June 1, 2016
The Circle of Life: February 7 – April 2, 2016

Hollywood Studios
Pizza Planet: January 11 – TBD
Star Wars Land: Opening TBD
Toy Story Land: Opening TBD

Animal Kingdom
Boneyard: February 22 – March 17, 2016
Flights of Wonder: January 25 – March 17, 2016
Kali River Rapids: January 4 – February 11, 2016
Pandora – The World of AVATAR: Opening TBD
Rivers of Light: Opening in 2016

Water Parks
Typhoon Lagoon: Park Closed January 4 – March 12, 2016

Disney Springs
Planet Hollywood: January 1 – June 1, 2016

Resort Hotels
All Star Movies: Duck Pond Pool February 22 – 24, 2016
Animal Kingdom Lodge: Kilimanjaro Lounge January 11 – February 5, 2016
Art of Animation: Schoolyard Sprayground January 1 – March 11, 2016
Bay Lake Tower: Bay Cove Pool February 1 – March 18, 2016
Boardwalk Inn: Flying Fish Café February 1, 2016 – September 30, 2016, Luna Park Pool January 11 – February 2, 2016
Caribbean Beach Resort: Barbados Quiet Pool February 17 – 19, 2016, Aruba Pool February 22 – April 15, 2016
Contemporary Resort: Bay Cove Pool February 1 – March 18, 2016
Polynesian Village Resort: Polynesian East Pool To Be Completed In 2016
Pop Century: Bowling Pin Pool February 16 – March 1, 2016
Port Orleans Riverside: Ol’ Man Island Pool January 11 – February 29, 2016, Alligator Bayou Pool B February 10 – 11, 2016, Alligator Bayou Pool C February 15 – 16, 2016
Walt Disney World Dolphin: Guest Room Refurbishments 2016 – 2017
Wilderness Lodge: Hidden Springs Quiet Pool, Resort Beach, Playground and Fire Pit To Be Completed In 2017

Planning Tips

If you are traveling to Disney World in February 2016, 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 (midnight 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 new 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 February 2016 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!

Sep 29 2015

Movin’ With Mickey Update 4

Movin With Mickey

July was the official start of the Movin’ with Mickey Movement. In case you missed it, let me refresh your memory. My friend Katie over at The Most Delightful Place recently kicked off her new feature Movin’ with Mickey! She’s going to be sharing lots of great health tips and success stories twice a month as she works towards her personal goal of walking the amount of steps equal to the distance from her home in Iowa to Walt Disney World. Of course, she’ll be updating us on her progress along the way. I loved her idea and decided I would join in to improve my health before my fall Disney World vacation.

The Plan

Most Delightful PlaceI have many things to work on to improve my health. As Katie walks her way to Disney World, I’m going to make healthy changes too, and I’ll keep you posted on how I’m doing.

Every two weeks, Katie will be doing a post over on The Most Delightful Place giving us an update and sharing helpful information. I’ll post a link here at Disney World Enthusiast each time she publishes a Movin’ with Mickey article so we can keep up with her progress.

In between posts, you can catch up with Katie and I over on Facebook at Disney World Enthusiast or The Most Delightful Place, where you can let us know how you’re doing on journey as well.

Update 4

I’ve been super busy finishing up my fourth book that will be coming out this holiday season, so am I making any progress on my health goals? Well….let’s take a look at each of my changes individually.

Get at least 6 hours of sleep each night.

I am still doing great on this change. Each night I’ve been sleeping from about 10pm to 5am. It is becoming such a habit now, I’m almost ready to take this goal off the list!

Eat three meals each day.

So this change is definitely still a work in progress. During my last update, I shared that I was having sandwiches for breakfast, because I’m not a big “breakfast food” fan. Well, guess what? I got super burnt out on them, and started getting back into my habit of skipping the meal entirely. Any ideas of something quick and easy to eat in the mornings?

Eat at least one fruit/vegetable at every meal.

Since I’m no longer eating sandwiches, there went the veggies that I was getting. Lots more work to do here!

Take all of my medications each day.

Still doing great on taking my vitamins and kidney stone medications. Another goal that I will soon be removing from the list!

Drink eight glasses of water each day.

I haven’t even tried this one yet. It’s going to be tough. At least I have plenty to work on!

Reduce soda intake to once a week or less.

I’m still working on this change; that’s for sure! I’ve managed to work my way from four sodas a day down to two, but I still have a long way to go until I’m at my goal of one a week.

Exercise at least 30 minutes per day at least 5 days per week.

No progress here yet, but I’m really short on time trying to complete my book before my fall Disney World vacation. I hope to get started on the exercise on November 1.

As you can see, I still have a lot of work to do. But this about the journey not the destination, right?

Katie’s Updates

Click here to read Katie’s first update that includes a great interview and some fantastic training tips!

Click here to read Katie’s second update that includes her progress report. It is so exciting to see how far she has come already!

Click here to read Katie’s third update that includes some great tips for staying on track while cruising. That lucky girl is getting ready to set sail on a Disney Cruise to Hawaii!

Click here to read Katie’s fourth update that includes lots of interesting information about essential oils!

Do you hope to improve your health before your next Disney World vacation? Are you ready to join the Movin’ with Mickey Movement? Please leave a comment and let us know what you’ll be working on.
We would love to share this journey with you!

Sep 28 2015

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Now Open

Jock Lindsay's 6

Great news, everyone! The new aviation-themed lounge, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, has opened at Downtown Disney. Here are all of the exciting details just released courtesy of Disney:

Jock Lindsay's 7With an imaginative, playful design that tells the story of a man who loved the adventure of flight, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is open along the waterfront at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort.

The cozy lounge with spacious outdoor seating features light bites and drinks inspired by Jock’s globe-trotting, including a stint as the pilot for Indiana Jones in “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

“Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar fits into the storytelling of Disney Springs – a town that grew up over time,” says Theron Skees of Walt Disney Imagineering.

Jock Lindsay's 9The space is layered with all of the adventures that Jock went on his career, says Skees. “It’s all about Jock’s love of flying and his collection over the years.”

The inspired atmosphere is in the details, from spare airplane parts to nostalgic postcards and antique maps tacked to the walls.

Walt Disney Imagineers weave a tale of Jock’s high-flying life, with the pilot making his home at Disney Springs in the 1940s after discovering the charming little town while flying over the Sunshine State in 1938 search of the elusive Fountain of Youth.

One of the architectural focal points of the lounge is the lamella ceiling, a specific type of timber construction that was popular in airplane hangars in the 1940s. The open framework creates a lightness in the cozy room. Fanciful details include an antique dive bell, from Jock’s adventures at sea, now with a curved bench for private seating.

Jock Lindsay's 10And the expansive waterfront bar is a nod to his travels around the world, with photos of Jock and his pals tasting exotic fare. But the real architectural showstopper is Reggie, Jock’s canvas-covered steamboat, named for his pet snake. Now in dry dock, it stretches out into the water, a spectacular spot for light bites and sunset-watching

Though Jock may be gone, his tales live on at this exotic watering hole.  And that’s what gives the place its charm – and a creative menu of adventurous tastes.

Jock Lindsay's 1Each of the small plates on the opening menu has a delicious twist. Dr. Elsa’s She-Deviled Eggs are brined in beet juice with lump crab filling. “Good” Dates features goat cheese-stuffed dates with Marcona almonds and pickled veggies. Snack of Ra gives a taste of Africa with salads and dips served with injera (bread) and naan crisps. Tanis Tacos are filled with falafel, shredded lettuce and cucumber-tomato salad. The pretzels come with house-made mustard and beer-cheese fondue.

Jock Lindsay's 4A little more substantial are the Rolling Boulder Sliders with three spice meatballs on mini-buns with yogurt sauce.  Or Brody Brats, grilled bratwurst with mustard and pickled cabbage. The Hangar’s take on chicken wings features spicy Asian wings (called “Lao Che’s Revenge”). And “Squid! Why’d It Have to Be Squid” is fried calamari flatbread with spicy harissa.

Along with beer and wine, mixologists are having fun with cocktails, such as the Cool-Headed Monkey, The Scottish Professor, Reggie’s Revenge and Anything Goes, all crafted with spirits from around the globe.

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is open from 11:30 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday (no reservations).

Located between Paradiso 37 and The BOATHOUSE restaurant at Downtown Disney, the new lounge is part of the largest expansion in Downtown Disney history, which will transform the area into Disney Springs, a lively shopping, dining and entertainment destination. Guests at Disney Springs will have a unique Disney experience amid beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs and waterfront charm.

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:

Are you an Indiana Jones Fan?
Are you excited to try Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar? Please leave a comment!

Sep 27 2015

Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up September 27, 2015

Here’s the Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up for September 27, 2015!

Latest Disney World Enthusiast Articles

Considering A Disney World Vacation

Book Your Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, a Disney Vacation Planner with Destinations in Florida, is the official travel partner of Disney World Enthusiast. She can help you book your next Disney vacation whether it is to Disney World, Disneyland, or aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Currently Jennifer has some incredible deals for discounted travel to Disney World. For more information about Jennifer’s amazing and absolutely free services or to get a free no-obligation quote, please click here!

Disney World Saratoga Springs GrandstandTip Of The Week

Bring simple child-proofing items for your hotel room. When my boys were younger, I always brought outlet covers with me, but then on one trip my youngest son locked the hotel bathroom door and pulled it closed while the tub was filling! After an urgent call to maintenance, we learned that the stirrer in the supplied coffee packets can work as an emergency bathroom door key. Following that unpleasant episode, I started bringing a foam door stop to keep the door from closing all the way!

Eat to the BeatDisney Did You Know

159 Eat To The Beat Concerts will be performed at this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Walt DisneyWalt’s Words

“Children are people, and they should have to reach to learn about things, to understand things, just as adults have to reach if they want to grow in mental stature. Life is composed of lights and shadows, and we would be untruthful, insincere, and saccharine if we tried to pretend there were no shadows. Most things are good, and they are the strongest things; but there are evil things too, and you are not doing a child a favor by trying to shield him from reality. The important thing is to teach a child that good can always triumph over evil.”

Red Polka Dot MagicBand SkinsDisney World Enthusiast Giveaway

From now through Friday, October 2, 2015 at midnight, please enter daily to win a set of four Red Polka Dot MagicBand skins. Just click here and follow the instructions to be entered into the giveaway. Be sure to take advantage of the bonus entries, and please feel free to share with your friends and family!

Icon S3Behind The Magic Podcast

Be sure to catch up on this week’s episodes when Zeek, Rachel, Tim, Richard, Sarah and I discuss Disney news, rumors, and so much more. For more information about this week’s podcasts or to listen, please click here.

Featured Advertiser

BitbeltHave you heard of this incredible gadget – Bitbelt? If you aren’t familiar, this handy creation secures your MagicBand so that it doesn’t accidentally become lost. Anyone that carries a child, a backpack, or wears a jacket at Disney World knows how easily a MagicBand can become unclasped. That’s where this little beauty comes in! Simply place a Bitbelt on your MagicBand and save yourself the trouble of having to search for a lost band or take the time to get a replacement. Bitbelts come in a dozen different colors and in two sizes – adult and junior. They are only $4.99 each plus they offer discounted pricing when you purchase multiple Bitbelts in one order. And if you think Bitbelts are great for MagicBands, they are also available for your fitness trackers. Never lose a pricey Fitbit again! For more information about Bitbelt, please click here!

501 WaysFeatured Book

The difference between an average and an outstanding Walt Disney World trip is in the details. Kristi Fredericks helps make your dream vacation a reality with her numerous tips and tricks to save money, time, and sanity while at the happiest place on earth in her new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation”. For more information, to read an excerpt, or to purchase, please click here.

You’re Invited

Next Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, from Destinations in Florida, and I have teamed up to create a brand new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, voice your opinions, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Whether it’s Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, or the Disney Cruise Line, Jennifer and I are ready to help. 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 and conversation! Please click here to be a part of our group!

dwe logo small size white bkgdComing Up Next Week

Next week I’ll have a Movin’ with Mickey Update, Helpful Information for Your February 2016 Disney World Vacation, plus all of the latest Disney World news!

Do you have a question or article idea?
Please leave a comment!

Sep 26 2015

Behind The Magic Podcast Recap September 21 – September 25, 2015

Icon S3

Welcome to Season 3 of Behind The Magic Podcast!

This “snack credit” of podcasts is a unique 15-minute daily Disney podcast hosted by Zeek, Rachel, Tim, Sarah, Richard, and me. Every day Monday through Friday you can join us for entertaining Disney information, discussions, guests, games, and more. Zeek and Rachel will be surprising you each and every day with all of their fabulous humor and Disney insider knowledge. And of course, Tim will keep you up-to-date on Disney news with his daily “Mouse News Minute” segment.

Here’s a quick peek at what you can expect each day during Season 3:

  • Monday ~ Magical Mondays with fun and games featuring Zeek’s “DisKids Reactions” segment!
  • Tuesday ~ Topical Tuesdays with Top Ten lists and discussions featuring Richard’s “2 Cents To The Scoop” segment!
  • Wednesday ~ With Us Wednesdays with celebrity guests from around the Disney Universe!
  • Thursday ~ Theme Park Thursdays with fun information, facts, and stories about the parks featuring my “Mouse Whispers” segment!
  • Friday ~ Field Trip Fridays with information and discussions helpful to your park visit featuring Sarah’s “2 Minute Table Service” segment!

This Week’s Episodes

This week’s episodes include:

  • Monday ~ Tournament of Podcasts
  • Tuesday ~ Behind Food & Wine
  • Wednesday ~ Behind WDW Parkhopper
  • Thursday ~ Behind Mission: SPACE
  • Friday ~ Behind Your Stay What To Do At Your Resort

For more details about each episode and to listen, please click here!

This Week’s Mouse Whispers

In my Thursday, September 24 “Mouse Whispers”, I shared the latest Disney gossip and rumors about some lost character meet and greets! Check out Thursday’s full episode here!

We hope you enjoy our show!