Tag Archives: Hollywood Studios

Mar 17 2017

Beauty And The Beast Inspired Fun At Walt Disney World

Great news “Beauty and the Beast” fans! If you love the classic animated hit or the new live-action film, there are tons of “Beauty and the Beast” inspired experiences for you and your family to enjoy in Walt Disney World during your next vacation. Here’s everything you need to know, courtesy of Disney:

On March 17, the much anticipated live-action film “Beauty and the Beast” premiered in theaters nationwide. Fans looking to celebrate the classic fairy tale need look no further than Walt Disney World Resort, where there are a multitude of unique “Beauty and the Beast” experiences just waiting to say “bonjour.”

Here are a few options:

Tale as Old as Time: Guests are invited to be a part of the story at Enchanted Tales with Belle in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park. Guests are transported through an enchanted mirror to Beast’s castle. They’re just in time to help Lumiere and Madame Wardrobe host a very special surprise for Belle. The audience gets to play various characters from the film to re-tell the story of how Belle and Beast met just before she has dinner with Beast.

Song as old as Rhyme: Guests can also interact with the story and the music from “Beauty and the Beast” with several entertainment options at both Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom Park.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios:

  • Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage! immerses guests in a Broadway-style show where Belle, Gaston, Beast, Mrs. Potts and other characters perform songs and scenes from the classic film. The 25-minute performance takes place daily at the Theater of the Stars.
  • A sneak peek of the upcoming live-action film is screening at the theater inside of the Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream attraction now through March 26. Guests also can see Belle’s iconic yellow ball gown and the Enchanted Rose from the live-action film in a gallery exhibit inside the attraction.

Magic Kingdom Park:

  • Belle and Beast lead off the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade as it loops from Frontierland to Main Street, U.S.A. This sight-and-sound spectacular celebrates the magic of Fantasyland with several Disney friends and colorful floats. Parade kick off is 3 p.m. daily.

Put Our Service to the Test: Soup du jour, hot hors d’oeuvres, Walt Disney World restaurants only live to serve. Guests can find several “Beauty and the Beast” dining opportunities throughout the theme parks and Disney Springs.

  • Be Our Guest Restaurant: This one-of-a-kind dining experience can be found inside Beast’s castle in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park. Be Our Guest brings the story of “Beauty and the Beast” to life with atmospheric and culinary delights. It features an elegant ballroom, a Rose Gallery and the infamous West Wing for diners, with snowy views of the French countryside. Guests can even try the Grey Stuff, which is sure to be delicious. Beast, the master of the castle, meets with diners in his study after their meal. The French-style restaurant serves quick-service breakfast and lunch, and full-service dining for dinner.
  • Gaston’s Tavern: This French-style lodge is decorated with hunting trophies and other keepsakes dedicated to Gaston. Guests can sit in his fireside chair, complete with signature antler décor, and sip on LeFou’s brew, a frozen apple juice beverage infused with a hint of toasted marshmallow and topped with mango foam. The Tavern, located in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park, also serves a variety of pastries, including the signature giant cinnamon roll. The strapping Gaston himself can be found meeting adoring fans outside the Tavern as well.
  • Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: Guests can dine with several Disney Princesses, including Belle, in the Norway Pavilion at Epcot. Guests of all ages can visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner in this medieval castle setting, mingling with the princesses who pose for photos and sign autographs.
  • Guests also can find unique pastries inspired by the Beauty and the Beast story at several locations, including the Enchanted Rose cake at Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs and a Belle-inspired vanilla cupcake at Main Street Confectionary at Magic Kingdom Park.

A Beauty but a Funny Girl: Belle meets her fans in the France Pavilion at Epcot. Topiaries in France shaped like Belle, Beast and other “Beauty and the Beast” characters are showcased during the International Flower and Garden Festival, which runs now until May 29.

Royal Treatment: Little princesses also can get the royal Belle treatment at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, located at both Disney Springs and inside Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park. Fairy Godmothers-in-Training transform young guests with princess costumes, hairstyles, nails and more.

Happily Ever After: For brides-to-be, there are endless ways to include “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired touches to their big day thanks to Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. Brides can customize everything from their wedding décor to the menu to wearing a Belle-inspired gown.

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 seen Beauty and the Beast?
Will you be enjoying some of these experiences? Please leave a comment!

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Feb 20 2017

Helpful Information For Your March 2017 Disney World Vacation

So you are planning a vacation to Disney World in March 2017?
March is a wonderful time to visit Walt Disney World!

Springtime MinnieWeather

The weather in Disney World during March can be beautiful. The average high is about 78 degrees, the average low is about 54 degrees and the average rainfall is about 4.01 inches. March is the fifth rainiest month of the year with generally mild temperatures. Hurricane season has not yet begun, however there are the occasional severe storms with tornadoes during this time of year. Remember that although it can reach the upper 70’s by afternoon, low 50’s waiting for the bus in the morning can be very chilly, especially given the high humidity levels in Florida.

Crowds

In years past, March typically began with moderate crowds and by mid-month when a lot of schools begin their Spring Breaks, the crowd levels became high. In 2017, crowd levels are expected to follow the same pattern due to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, St. Patrick’s Day, and Spring Break, so pack your patience!

March 1 – March 4
Average Crowd Level 5.8 out of 10
March  5 – March 11
Average Crowd Level 5.6 out of 10
March 12 – March 18
Average Crowd Level 7.3 out of 10
March  19 – March 25
Average Crowd Level 7.0 out of 10
March 26 – March 31
Average Crowd Level 6.7 out of 10

Magic Kingdom ClockPark Hours

Magic Kingdom
Open most days from 9am – 11pm (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 March, please click this link. Remember that park hours are subject to change and are often adjusted two weeks prior.

Events

Epcot International Flower And Garden FestivalA wonderful part about visiting Disney World in March is the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. In 2017, the event will run from March 1 – May 29 and features over 100 topiaries, interesting gardening demonstrations, beautiful flowers, weekend music concerts and several outdoor kitchens serving delicious foods and beverages. For more information about the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, please click here.

Raglan RoadFor an exciting St. Patrick’s Day celebration, head over to Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs for music, food, and fun.

Refurbishments

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

Magic Kingdom
The Hall of Presidents: January 17 – June 29, 2017
Walt Disney World Railroad: January 9 – March 2, 2017

Epcot
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Hollywood Studios
Star Wars Land: Opening in 2019
Toy Story Land: Opening in 2018

Animal Kingdom
Pandora – The World of AVATAR: Opening May 27, 2017

Water Parks
Typhoon Lagoon: December 25 – March 11, 2017

Disney Springs
No Scheduled Refurbishments At This Time

Resort Hotels
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 March 2017, 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 March 2017 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!

Feb 15 2017

Amazing New Experiences Coming To Walt Disney World This Spring

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

Are you planning a Walt Disney World vacation this spring? If so, you are in luck, because Disney is adding several amazing new experiences for guests to enjoy. Here’s everything you need to know, courtesy of Disney:

It’s an exciting spring season at Walt Disney World Resort, one filled with new fun that spans all four theme parks, Disney’s Water Parks and Disney Springs.

From the unveiling of a whole new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to an awe-inspiring fireworks show at Magic Kingdom Park to more retail and restaurant openings at Disney Springs, there’s more to see and do at Walt Disney World Resort than ever before.

Here’s a closer look at what is in store:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

pandora-aOpening May 27, Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will transport guests to a mystical world of bioluminescent rainforests, floating mountains and soaring Banshees. In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing to life the fantasy world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s epic film AVATAR.

Guests will discover two main adventures in this breathtaking new land. Avatar Flight of Passage, sending guests flying above the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee. Na’vi River Journey is a family-friendly boat ride that sails down a sacred river hidden within a glowing rainforest for an unforgettable encounter with a Na’vi Shaman.

rivers-of-light-1Hungry adventurers can recharge at Satu’li Canteen, the main dining location, or Pongu Pongu, a drink kiosk with a design as eclectic as its expat owner. Shoppers can stock up on Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more at Windtraders.

Also coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom is Rivers of Light. Debuting February 17, this new nighttime show will take guests on a magnificent journey with a mix of water, fire, nature and light choreographed to an original musical score. Continuing the park’s transformation from a day-into-nighttime experience, the amazing after-dark experience on the banks of Discovery River celebrates the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world.

Magic Kingdom Park

"Happily Ever After" Fireworks and Projection Spectacular Debuts May 12 at Magic Kingdom Park

Starting May 12, Magic Kingdom Park guests will be treated to the most spectacular fireworks display in the park’s history with a brand new show called “Happily Ever After.”

Featuring more lasers, lights and projections than any Magic Kingdom Park show before it, “Happily Ever After” will take guests on an inspiring journey filled with heart and humor. Cinderella Castle itself will become part of the story, with dazzling projections bringing more than 25 heartfelt Disney stories to life on and around the iconic castle.

The 18-minute spectacle will feature moments from beloved Disney films such as “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin,” as well as modern blockbusters “Moana” and “Zootopia.”

“Happily Ever After” will be presented nightly. Show times vary based on park hours.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Launch Bay 2Several new Star Wars additions have recently taken center stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, starting with new displays inside Star Wars Launch Bay that feature authentic replicas from “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” The new AWR Troopers from “Rogue One” are also now appearing in the daytime stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.”

For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate experience: the all-new Star Wars Guided Tour. Guests are treated to a seven-hour immersion with character greetings, themed dining, attraction experiences, insider’s tours, a dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular. Offered for an additional fee, the tour is available Mondays and Saturdays and can be booked by clicking here.

And coming later this year, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests will be immersed in new scenes from “Star Wars: Episode VIII” while onboard the Star Tours – The Adventures Continue attraction.

Epcot

Flower & Garden 1Epcot celebrates 24 years of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival this spring, kicking off March 1 and running through May 29. Guests can sip and savor their way around Epcot enjoying new Outdoor Kitchens while taking in the sights of phenomenal topiaries designed after Disney characters.

Anna and Elsa topiaries will enchant the landscape at the Norway Pavilion in celebration of the new Frozen Ever After attraction, while colorful gardens will line the path to The Land Pavilion where guests can discover Soarin’ Around the World. The favorite attraction now takes guests to new heights with scenes from Sydney, Australia, the Great Wall of China and other destinations around the globe.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Miss Fortune FallsMiss Adventure Falls, the newest family attraction at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, splashes onto the scene this spring. Aboard this family-style raft adventure, guests will be immersed in the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer. Legend holds that this treasure hunter roamed the seven seas in search of undersea artifacts – until a rogue storm marooned her at Typhoon Lagoon.

Guests gently ascend to the top of the attraction in treasure rafts, only to plunge into a whitewater adventure where they will encounter some of Mary’s deep-sea treasures.

When it opens, Miss Adventure Falls will be one of the longest attractions (2 minutes) at Disney’s Water Parks.

Disney Springs

paddlefish-9The culinary scene at Disney Springs continues to evolve with more exciting food and beverage locales, including Paddlefish and Planet Hollywood Observatory, both open now.

Board an iconic paddleboat at Paddlefish, which offers guests a delectable menu of fresh seafood, steaks and chops for lunch, dinner and a Sunday brunch. A new rooftop lounge serves up a late-night menu as well as fantastic views of the water and Disney Springs.

Or, dine amongst the stars at Planet Hollywood Observatory, the newly reimagined restaurant serves up a new menu that includes amazing burgers and sandwiches created by celebrity Chef Guy Fieri, and craft cocktails whose names are inspired by the planets and space travel. Movie memorabilia, video screens, contemporary music and themed merchandise complete the scene.

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:

What are you most looking forward to this spring at Walt Disney World?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Jan 3 2017

Magical Reasons To Visit Walt Disney World In 2017

With the holiday season wrapped up and the new year here, if you’re like me, you’re beginning to plan for 2017. And of course, one of my favorite things to plan is a Walt Disney World vacation. I’m already excited for my next visit with so many fun new attractions and experiences coming soon. Here’s the scoop on what we can expect in 2017 courtesy of Disney:

The unveiling of a magical, mythical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and soaring Banshees anchors an exciting 2017 at Walt Disney World Resort – a year filled with new water park fun, a new festival for Epcot, more openings at Disney Springs, an awe-inspiring nighttime experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and much more.

Here’s a roundup at what the new year has in store:

pandora-7Pandora – The World of Avatar – A transformational experience unlike any other, Pandora – The World of Avatar, opens in summer 2017. In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing to life the fantasy world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s epic film AVATAR, in a breathtaking new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Avatar Flight of Passage will send guests flying above the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee. Bioluminescent rainforests dramatically wrap around Na’vi River Journey, a family-friendly boat ride.

pandora-2Hungry adventurers can recharge at Satu’li Canteen, the main dining location, or Pongu Pongu, a drink kiosk with a design as eclectic as its expat owner. Shoppers can stock up on Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more at Windtraders. “From the place making to the two extraordinary attractions that will be in the land…these promise to set new high-watermarks for the experiential magic we give our guests,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman, Disney Parks and Resorts.

More Additions to Disney Springs in 2017 – With the multi-year makeover of this hip, happening district for dining, shopping and entertainment in the homestretch, still more exciting openings are on tap for 2017. Great new food and beverage venues lead the way.

  • Disney Springs aSleek and modern after a bow-to-stern transformation from the former Fulton’s Crab House, Paddlefish will serve fresh seafood, steaks and chops. Unique menu choices for seafood lovers include a build-your-own boil. A new rooftop lounge will serve up a late-night menu and shipshape views of the water and Disney Springs. Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
  • Planet Hollywood Observatory – Longtime Downtown Disney-goers will remember the iconic domed restaurant that drew celebrities and fans of the Hollywood scene. The reborn space will be themed to stars of a different kind: a turn-of-the-20th-Century observatory serving up amazing burgers and sandwiches created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, and craft cocktails whose names are inspired by the planets and space travel. Movie memorabilia, video screens, contemporary music and themed merchandise complete the scene.
  • polite-pigThe Polite Pig – A sister restaurant to the Ravenous Pig, a favorite with Orlando locals, The Polite Pig will bring the same focus on genuine Florida cuisine to a broader global audience at Disney Springs. Lunch and dinner menus will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, including beer, wine and cocktails.
  • Wine Bar George – Orlando master sommelier George Miliotes uncorks his first Disney wine bar in a space reminiscent of a winemaker’s estate warmed by oak wood and cozy lighting. Small plates dominate the food menu but it will be the wines with a starring role: more than 100 selections both by the bottle and the glass in a range of varietals and vintages.

Home to four distinct neighborhoods, Disney Springs treats guests to a world of beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs, arcing foot bridges and waterfront charm. Venues have doubled – to approximately 150.

Miss Fortune FallsNew Family Raft Ride at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Aboard this family-style raft adventure, guests will be immersed in the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer. Legend holds that this treasure hunter roamed the seven seas in search of undersea artifacts – until a rogue storm marooned her at Typhoon Lagoon. Guests gently ascend in treasure rafts, only to plunge into a whitewater adventure where they will encounter some of Mary’s deep sea booty. When it opens in spring 2017, it will be one of the longest attractions (2 minutes) at Disney’s Water Parks.

Rivers of LightRivers of Light – Coming in 2017, this powerful theatrical production takes Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests on a magnificent emotional journey – a visual mix of water, fire, nature and light choreographed to an original musical score. Continuing the park’s transformation from a day-into-nighttime experience, the amazing after-dark show on the banks of Discovery River celebrates the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world. With innovative and never-before-seen technology, Rivers of Light will be unlike any other production ever staged at Walt Disney World Resort.

epcot-festival-of-the-arts-2017-aEpcot International Festival of the Arts – Epcot welcomes an all-new festival playing winter weekends and treating guests to a triple scoop of artful fun. For six colorful weekends (Fridays through Mondays) January 13 – February 20, visual, culinary and performing arts will take center stage. Each weekend will feature taste bud-tempting and eye-dazzling creations from the Disney culinary team. Meantime, exciting new art from various media will tempt art lovers. Because the artwork will change out, it’s a new art festival every weekend. In addition, the lagoon-side stage at American Gardens Theatre will pulse with favorite showtunes performed by Broadway talent. In a collaboration with Disney Theatrical, songs from some of Disney on Broadway’s award-winning shows including The Lion King, Newsies and Aladdin will be performed.

Unique All-New Experiences for Dining, Star Wars Fans – A new adventure in Disney dining and the ultimate Star Wars tour are being offered to guests in 2017.

  • highway-in-the-sky-1Disney’s famed monorail is your connection in a movable feast called Highway in the Sky Dine-Around. The new experience gives guests priority boarding on the monorail for a distinctly Disney dining experience with stops for cocktails, appetizers, dinner and dessert. From a welcome cocktail at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, guests call at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (apps), Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (entree) and back to the Contemporary for dessert, cordials and coffee. Offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
  • For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate tour. An all-new Star Wars Guided Tour is a seven-hour immersion in all current Star Wars experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Character greetings, themed dining, ride experiences, insider’s tours, dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular are among highlights. Offered Mondays and Saturdays, it’s part of several new Star Wars additions announced in December 2016 for the park, including a new onstage sequence in the daytime experience “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.” Star Wars-themed lands are planned for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

wilderness-lodge-villas-1New Cabins and Deluxe Villas coming to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – In 2017, a proposed new Disney Vacation Club Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, is scheduled to open, featuring new Resort accommodations that include plans for Deluxe Villas and unique waterfront cabins. Other enhancements coming to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge include a brand-new bar & grill, in addition to a quick-service restaurant. A sweeping re-imagination of the former Hidden Springs Pool, part of Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, is also scheduled to open in summer 2017. Named Boulder Ridge Cove, this area will feature an expanded sun deck and zero-depth-entry pool.

Wide World of Sports 1New Cheerleading, Dance Venue for ESPN Wide World of Sports – A first-of-its-kind venue specifically designed for the high-energy world of cheerleading and dance team competition opens its doors in 2017 at ESPN Wide World of Sports. The complex is collaborating with Varsity Spirit, the nation’s top cheerleading organization, in bringing the new multi-use venue to life. The venue will include a flexible design that allows for as many as four competition areas. With the ability to seat more than 8,000 guests, the sports and entertainment venue also can accommodate six regulation basketball courts, six regulation volleyball courts or be configured for concerts.

Be sure to follow Disney World Enthusiast throughout 2017 for all of the latest Disney World news, tips, deals, and more!

501 WaysHeading to Disney World in 2017?

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 in 2017? What are you most looking forward to?
Please leave a comment!

Dec 26 2016

Celebrating New Year’s Eve In Walt Disney World

Disney New Year

Ring in 2017 in Style

Walt Disney World is a perfect place to ring in the New Year! If you’ve just decided to visit for the holiday or were so caught up in Christmas that you forgot to making dining and Fastpass+ reservations, don’t panic, there are many magical ways to celebrate throughout the resort. Here are some fun options that require no advance planning:

Magic Kingdom

Hours

8:00am-1:00am, Extra Magic Hours 7:00am-8:00am for Disney Resort Hotel Guests

On The Schedule
  • 6:50am Welcome Show
  • 9:30am Move it! Shake it! Dance & Play it! Street Party
  • 10:00am Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 10:00am-2:30pm Incredibles Super Dance Party
  • 11:00am Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 12:00pm Mickey’s Once Upon A Time Christmas Parade
  • 1:15pm Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 1:45pm Move it! Shake it! Dance & Play it! Street Party
  • 2:15pm Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 3:30pm Mickey’s Once Upon A Time Christmas Parade
  • 3:40pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 4:30pm  Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 4:40pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 5:40pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 6:15pm A Frozen Holiday Wish Stage Show and Castle Lighting
  • 6:50pm Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show
  • 7:00pm-1:00am Frontierland New Year’s Celebration Dance Party
  • 7:10pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 7:30pm Holiday Wishes – New Year’s Celebration Fireworks
  • 8:10pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 8:15pm Once Upon A Time Castle Projection Show
  • 9:00pm Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show
  • 9:10pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 10:00pm Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show
  • 11:50pm Fantasy In The Sky New Year’s Fireworks
New Years 3General Information

On New Year’s Eve at Magic Kingdom, guests are treated to all of the holiday entertainment that is normally exclusive to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party plus a special edition of the Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks show. Party favors such as hats and horns are handed out to visitors in the evening to enjoy as they celebrate. Remember that alcohol is limited in Magic Kingdom; guests are not permitted to bring in alcohol and it is only served at five table service restaurants throughout the park.

Quick Tips
  • The Magic Kingdom New Year’s Eve celebration is generally the most family oriented of all the parks.
  • It is also the most crowded by far, and it is not uncommon to experience phased closures throughout the day when guests are not permitted entry into the park.
  • If you plan to spend the holiday in Magic Kingdom, get a good night’s sleep on December 30, arrive early on December 31, and plan to stay for the duration.
  • If at all possible, leave the driving to Disney and hop on a resort bus. With one of the largest parking lots in the world, the mass exodus that happens when the park closes is complete chaos.
  • If you’re interested in experiencing attractions during your visit, focus on less popular large capacity ones like Enchanted Tiki Room, Country Bear Jamboree, The Hall of Presidents, Carousel of Progress and Tomorrowland Transit Authority.
  • When dining at counter service restaurants, try to eat at off hours. For lunch avoid 11:00am-2:00pm and for dinner avoid 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Epcot

Hours

Future World 8:00am-1:00am, World Showcase 9:00am-1:00am

On The Schedule
  • 6:00pm Illuminations: Reflections of Earth Holiday Edition Fireworks
  • 11:40pm New Year’s Countdown Fireworks
Disney New YearGeneral Information

Of all of the Walt Disney World parks, Epcot is my favorite to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The festivities are geared a bit more to the over 21 crowd with World Showcase filled with temporary bars and dance parties at several of the country pavilions. Just like at Magic Kingdom, guests will be treated to party favors at no additional charge, but as always there will be no shortage of light up merchandise available for purchase.

Quick Tips
  • Epcot’s New Year’s Eve celebration while still family friendly is definitely geared to an older crowd.
  • Due to the size of the park, the crowds are still massive, but feel not as claustrophobic as Magic Kingdom.
  • Anticipate heavy crowds getting into the park, so it is always a good idea to arrive early and be prepared to wait. However, the odds of Epcot experiencing phased closures is much lower than at Magic Kingdom.
  • If you’re staying at a resort hotel, take advantage of the free transportation and avoid driving to the park.
  • If you’re hoping to enjoy some attractions during your visit without waiting in line for hours, World Showcase films such as Reflections of China, Impressions de France, and O Canada are great options.
  • When dining at counter service restaurants and food booths, try to eat at off hours. For lunch avoid 11:00am-2:00pm and for dinner avoid 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hours

8:00am-12:00am

On The Schedule
  • 8:00pm Fantasmic! Nighttime Spectacular
  • 9:00pm Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Fireworks Show
  • 9:30pm Fantasmic! Nighttime Spectacular
  • 12:00am Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Fireworks Show
star-wars-2016-bGeneral Information

Of all of the parks with New Year’s celebrations, Hollywood Studios historically has the lowest crowd levels. Like Epcot, this party is geared a little more for the over 21 crowd with temporary bars and a huge dance party leading up to the massive fireworks display. Similar to Magic Kingdom and Epcot, party favors are distributed to all guests free of charge.

Quick Tips
  • Due to the extensive construction and closures now taking place at Hollywood Studios, the crowds will likely feel larger than they actually are.
  • Like Epcot, phased closures are rare at Hollywood Studios, but lines will be long through security and the park entrance so be sure to plan accordingly.
  • If you’re staying at a resort hotel, take advantage of the free bus transportation and avoid driving to the park.
  • When dining at counter service restaurants, try to eat at off hours. For lunch avoid 11:00am-2:00pm and for dinner avoid 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Hours

8:00am-8:30pm, Extra Magic Hours 7:00am-8:00am for Disney Resort Hotel Guests

DAK at Night 1General Information

Animal Kingdom does not have an official New Year’s Eve celebration or fireworks display, however guests can enjoy additional live entertainment performances throughout the day and the lightest crowds of any of the parks.

Disney Springs

Hours

10:00am-12:00am

Disney Springs aGeneral Information

Similar to Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs doesn’t have an official celebration or fireworks display, however there will be no shortage of live entertainment, food and drinks available for guests looking for a fun night out!

Disney Resort Hotels

Boardwalk 1General Information

If the thought of dealing with the crowds is too much for you and you happen to be staying on-property at Walt Disney World, be sure to check with guest services at your hotel. Most resorts will be offering some type of party on site. The deluxe resorts often offer fairly elaborate celebrations for their guests. In the past, the Grand Floridian has featured a big band orchestra, party favors, and balloon drop in the main lobby while the Boardwalk has had a full carnival of festivities going on along the water to ring in the new year!

Happy New Year!

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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 Walt Disney World for New Year’s Eve?
Have you attended that evening before? Please leave a comment!