Tag Archives: News

Nov 24 2016

Once Upon A Time Projection Show At Magic Kingdom

once-upon-a-time-3

For years one of my favorite parts about a night at Magic Kingdom was the incredible projection show on Cinderella Castle – “Celebrate The Magic”. Recently Disney has replaced this classic with a brand new version called “Once Upon A Time”. Here’s everything you need to know, courtesy of Disney:

once-upon-a-time-2Classic Disney stories light up a fairy-tale castle as the projection show “Once Upon a Time” begins beaming its magic onto Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park.

The new show uses projection-mapping technology to produce a dazzling three-dimensional effect that fits every nook and contour of the Castle, from its base to the tips of its towers and turrets.

The result: Cinderella Castle opens like a storybook and becomes living art, the canvas for a kaleidoscopic and eye-filling feast of fantasy.

Coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the timeless animated classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the new projection show is narrated by Mrs. Potts who shares “once upon a time” bedtime stories with Chip.

once-upon-a-time-1Projected scenes let guests relive some of their favorite Disney moments. They’ll fly with Peter Pan above the rooftops of London to Never Land, grow to a towering size with Alice in Wonderland and float along with Winnie the Pooh as he rises to the top of the Castle while hanging from a colorful balloon. These are just some of the enchanting tales that come to life in “Once Upon a Time.”

The awe-inspiring show culminates with classic scenes from Beauty and the Beast – the Beast waltzing with his beloved Belle, his duel with Gaston, and finally his transformation back to the Prince. As Mrs. Potts and Chip conclude their bedtime story, the show moves to its grand finale including appearances by characters from some of Disney’s most beloved animated tales. Fireworks bursting above the Castle add to the magic.

“Once Upon a Time” replaces the “Celebrate the Magic” Castle projection show that ended its four-year run on November 3.

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 Once Upon A Time yet? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Nov 23 2016

Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration At Disney Springs

starbright-holidays-1

It’s that time again when Disney goes all out getting into the holiday spirit. This year is no exception and Disney has given us another new and exciting experience to see during the holiday season. Here’s everything you need to know about “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” at Disney Springs courtesy of Disney:

This holiday season, guests at Disney Springs – the shopping, dining and entertainment district of Walt Disney World Resort – will get a chance to see Disney and Intel exploring remarkable new technology as hundreds of lighted show drones take to the nighttime sky in “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration.” The twice-nightly experience begins November 20 on the West Side of Disney Springs.

The first-of-its-kind light show featuring 300 Intel® Shooting StarTM show drones invites guests to gaze skyward and make a special wish this holiday season. The synchronized choreography of the new Intel Shooting Star drones is set to a specially orchestrated arrangement of classic holiday music. In the nostalgic and stirring medley, Disney Springs guests can listen for a few bars of classic Disney melodies.

starbright-holidays-2“We are thrilled to share an experience as innovative and unique as Disney Springs,” said Keith Bradford, Vice President of Disney Springs. “‘Starbright Holidays’ is a wonderful surprise and delight moment for guests as they enjoy an evening of world-class shopping, dining and entertainment here at Disney Springs.”

Added Jon Snoddy, Studio Executive with Walt Disney Imagineering R&D, “At Disney, we are always looking for innovative ways to tell stories and create unexpected experiences. We’re excited to invite guests to watch as we explore the possibilities of this remarkable new technology.”

“Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration” marks the first time in the United States 300 show drones have flown at one time. At 280g, the Intel Shooting Star drone weighs less than a volleyball, and features built-in LED lights that can create more than four billion color combinations.

“We are excited to work with Walt Disney Imagineering to bring a fresh and innovative approach to its world-renowned light shows,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager of Intel’s New Technology Group, Josh Walden. “Together, we worked to tackle the new frontier of entertainment, picturing the sky as our canvas, and flying lights as ink.”

“Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration”  runs November 20 – January 8 at 7:00pm and 8:30pm, and joins other holiday enhancements at Disney Springs, including a brand-new Christmas Tree Trail, special seasonal entertainment, meet and greets with Santa, and festive decor throughout all four neighborhoods – Town Center, The Landing, West Side and Marketplace.

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 Starbright Holidays yet? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Nov 21 2016

Black Friday Shopping And More At Disney Springs

disney-springs-christmas-2016-1

If you’ll be in Walt Disney World this weekend and plan to do some holiday shopping, be sure to head over to Disney Springs for some incredible Black Friday deals! Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Disney:

With the emergence of Disney Springs as a world-class shopping destination, merchants throughout the retail, dining and entertainment district are taking part in that great American tradition of holiday shopping: Black Friday on November 25, 2016.

In fact, the fun is being extended to a second day, Saturday, November 26.

More than 60 stores are planning special Black Friday sales and promotions.  And children of all ages will have a chance to meet Santa as early as 8:00am.

Disney Springs Christmas 5While supplies last, World of Disney and other Marketplace favorites will offer special savings on popular items, such as Vera Bradley “Midnight with Mickey” hipster bags for $24.99 at Marketplace Co-Op.  Star Wars fans will find Storm Trooper Action Figures for $14.99 at Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and a holiday wreath with lights is available at Disney’s Days of Christmas for $16.99.

Other deals include savings of up to 40 percent on select merchandise at Curl by Sammy Duval, a free bangle with $125 purchase at Pandora Jewelry, 40 percent off all merchandise, excluding “rare finds,” at Lucky Brand and up to 60 percent off original prices of select styles at APEX by Sunglass Hut.

All stores will open at 8am – two hours earlier than normal – on Black Friday, November 25, and Saturday, November 26.  Adding to the festivities, the Disney Springs waterfront promenade will feature bars offering mimosas for purchase, while Bloody Marys will be available for purchase at nearby Dockside Margaritas.

For a full list of participating locations, please click here.

Beyond the Black Friday specials offered by merchants, a whole world of entertainment awaits shoppers at Disney Springs to make for a most unique day of fun for the entire family. Here’s a dozen diversions for shoppers to Disney Springs:

  1. Disney Springs Christmas TreeTake a break and go bowling — but not just any bowling. Splitsville Luxury Lanes elevates bowling to a new level with upscale food and live music. Located in the heart of West Side.
  2. Rise high above the panorama of Disney Springs aboard the Characters in Flight Balloon, operated by Aerophile. The world’s largest tethered helium balloon rises 400 feet for breathtaking views. West Side.
  3. Hit the pause button from shopping and relax in comfort by taking in a box office hit at AMC Movies at Disney Springs. Includes the Fork & Screen Dine-In Theatre. West Side.
  4. On-the-go guests can grab a quick bite or shop merchandise at the many kiosks strung around Disney Springs.
  5. Where else can families have a theme park experience while making the shopping rounds?  DisneyQuest Interactive Theme Park lets guests choose their own high-tech adventure among five floors of gaming awesomeness – from classic arcade favorites to immersive virtual worlds. West Side.
  6. Disney Springs Christmas 2Head for Paradiso 37, a waterfront emporium for dining, dancing, live Latin music and a tequila menu boasting more than 75 choices. The Landing.
  7. Take the kiddies for a spin on a charming Venetian carousel, lavishly hand-painted and crafted by skilled artisans in Italy. Marketplace.
  8. Unwind lakeside at the open-air Waterside Stage where special events, activities and live performances – from full concerts to a DJ Kids Dance Party – take place every day and night. The Landing.
  9. Take a break at Raglan Road, an Irish pub, over a cold pint, hearty cuisine, live music and high-stepping Irish Dancers. The Landing.
  10. Remember the slogan “The Pause that Refreshes”?  From the rooftop bar of the Coca-Cola Store shoppers can pause, enjoy classic and exotic flavors while they take in the panorama of Disney Springs. Town Center.
  11. How about a lake cruise to add spice to your shopping day? Vintage American Amphicars and romantic Italian water taxis depart regularly from The BOATHOUSE, an upscale dining location on Lake Buena Vista. The Landing.
  12. Put on a happy face – or any other face. At the Face Painting by Enjoy Your Face booth, you can choose from a whimsical or animal-inspired design or have a face-painting professional create a custom look.

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 shopping at Disney Springs this holiday season?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Nov 20 2016

Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up November 20, 2016

Here’s the Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up for November 20, 2016!

Latest Disney World Enthusiast Articles

Animal Kingdom Lodge SavannahTip Of The Week

If you would like the chance to view some exotic animals without the cost or lines of Animal Kingdom, visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge. You can stroll around the resort while enjoying spectacular up-close views of the savannahs that are home to over 30 different animal species, including giraffes, zebras, and flamingos. Pick up a Wildlife Field Guide from the lobby concierge to help you identify the beautiful creatures.

Looking for more tips like this? Click here!

Autograph BookDisney Did You Know

If you stacked the number of standard autograph books sold annually, it would match the height of 200 Cinderella Castles. Add the Princess-style autograph books and, end to end, the books would reach 88 miles into space.

Walt Disney 3Walt’s Words

“Whether you say you can’t or you can, you’re right.”

Tomorrowland PinDisney World Enthusiast Giveaway

Look for a brand new giveaway beginning Friday, December 2, 2016! Good luck, everyone!

Behind The Magic Podcast

Be sure to catch up on this seasons’s episodes when Zeek, Rachel, and I discuss Disney news, rumors, and so much more.

For more details about our podcast and 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.

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 Walt Disney World. For more information about Jennifer’s amazing and absolutely free services or to get a free no-obligation quote, 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 some planning and dining information plus all of the latest Disney World news!

Have a wonderful week!

Nov 19 2016

Glow In The Dark Happy Holidays Blue MagicBand Skins Giveaway Winner

glow-in-the-dark-happy-holidays-blue-magicband-skinA must-have Disney World vacation accessory!

The Winner

Congratulations to Crystal who won a pair of Glow in the Dark Happy Holidays Blue MagicBand Skins. Thanks to everyone who took the time to enter and be sure to follow me on Twitter and Facebook to hear about more free giveaways throughout 2016!

Interested in getting your own MagicBand Skins? Please click this link to purchase some today!

The Review

Recently I arranged with Tracy at Magic YOUR Band to review their MagicBand Skins. If you aren’t familiar with this product, these adorable decals attach directly to your Disney World MagicBand creating your own personalized look.

Tracy asked me to pick out a MagicBand Skin that I liked as well as try out their online design tool for this review. My youngest son was excited to test the product with me so he choose the two piece “Slice of Pizza” design to go on his orange MagicBand. I decided to try putting my DisneyWorldEnthusiast.com logo on a skin for my red MagicBand. I was amazed at how easy Magic YOUR Band’s editing system worked. In a matter of minutes, I had a background selected and my logo in place and looking great! Then my son and I eagerly waited for our MagicBand Skins to arrive. Just as promised, they arrived in about a week.

We opened our delivery to find our MagicBand Skins nicely packaged and looking gorgeous! The first thing that struck me was how bright and vibrant the colors appeared. Upon further inspection, the MagicBand Skins looked perfectly cut and well made. Next up was getting them on our MagicBands.

The process was much easier than I thought it would be. I spent a few minutes watching the installation video on their site and then gave it a try. I found the skins to be very forgiving and I was able to lift them and adjust them until they were just right. Once I had the MagicBand Skins where I wanted, I went back over them pressing down firmly to make sure they were in place. It only took a couple of minutes until our MagicBands were looking quite magical!

My son and I wore our MagicBands with the Magic YOUR Band Skins throughout a recent Disney World trip. They held up beautifully to ten days filled with pool time, attractions, and rain. We can’t wait to wear our new favorite Disney accessory on our next Walt Disney World vacation!

Here’s all of the important information that you’ll need to get yourself a MagicBand Skin:

  • MagicBand Skins are available for purchase on MagicYOURBand.com.
  • They range in price from $6 to $8 each.
  • They offer special pricing when you purchase multiple MagicBand Skins in one order. Buy two to five and save 15%. Buy six to nine and save 25%. Buy ten or more and save 33%.
  • They come in one piece (that covers the center MagicBand Mickey) or two piece (that shows the center MagicBand Mickey) styles.
  • They have over 100 ready-made designs available including adorable holiday varieties!
  • You also have the options of personalizing one of their designs or creating your own with their easy-to-use online editing tool.
  • MagicBand Skins are fully waterproof. They hold up in the shower, pool, and a Florida rain storm!
  • The MagicBand Skins are easy to apply and remove if you want to change-up your look. They even have a handy video to show you how!
  • The Skins have no effect on how the MagicBand works. Your band will still be fully functional.
  • Magic YOUR Band is located in the United Kingdom and offers free international shipping on all orders.
  • The average delivery time is 7 days from the date of postage. You can upgrade to 2 business day FedEx International Priority Shipping for an additional fee.


Please click this link to purchase one today!