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Update! Everything You Want to Know About Epcot’s Candlelight Processional 2013

Published July 17, 2013 by Disneyways.com

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When it comes to Candlelight, you have to plan ahead! There is a good, better, and best way to enjoy Candlelight. That’s why we’ve got everything you want to know about it for you here – and you can decide what works for you.

Epcot’s Candlelight Processional is  a Disney tradition now in its 43rd year! It is absolutely a must-do included in our top 5 ways to get in the Christmas spirit at Epcot! Candlelight Processional is a moving presentation of the Christmas story in readings by a celebrity narrator and music by a Mass choir and 50-piece orchestra. This event takes place in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase in Epcot. It is an outdoor (uncovered, not climate controlled) setting and is not cancelled due to inclement weather. It is recommended that you dress accordingly – some years we actually need to wear our warm coats!

The Processionals begin on November 29, 2013, and runs every evening until December 30.

Shows are approximately 40 minutes. Each evening there are three shows — the times are 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.

2013 Tentative Narrator Schedule

Neil Patrick Harris

The tentative schedule of those who will appear as narrators for performances of Epcot’s 2013 Candlelight Processional, the annual retelling of the story of Christmas that features a mass choir and a full orchestra (subject to change):

Gary Sinise November 29 to December 1, 2013

Neil Patrick Harris December 2 to December 3, 2013

Ashley Judd – NEW! December 4 to December 5

Whoopi Goldberg December 6 to December 7, 2013

Sigourney Weaver – NEW! December 8 to December 10, 2013

Dennis Haysbert – NEW! December 11 to December 13, 2013

James Denton December 14 to December 16, 2013

Edward James Olmos December 17 to December 19, 2013

Trace Adkins December 20 to December 22, 2013

Steven Curtis Chapman December 23 to December 25, 2013

Blair Underwood December 26 to December 28, 2013

Amy Grant December 29 to December 30, 2013

There is no charge to see the Candlelight Processional (show) – it is included in your admission to Epcot. There is, however, a dinner package available for purchase. The Candlelight package includes a ticket to a guaranteed reserved seating SECTION for the Candlelight Processional (show) at American Gardens Theater  –  lunch or dinner at a select Epcot restaurant, and pre-arranged fireworks viewing.

Previously a mystery to most of us – YOU CAN NOW JUST CLICK HERE TO GET AN IDEA OF YOUR DINING TIME FOR EACH SHOW!

To book call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or visit HERE. Be prepared to hold your package in advance with a valid credit card number. You don’t have to pay for your dinner package until you arrive at the location.

Again, you do not get a reserved seat at the show with the package – you get to sit in the reserved section. The reserved section is front and center, behind any VIP seating. Within the reserved section, seating is on a first come, first serve basis, so if you want your choice of seats, you should still arrive 30-45 minutes early.  

Seating without the dinner package is on a first come, first serve basis for each show. This means lining up 45 minutes (longer as you are closer to Christmas) before show time. 15 minutes prior to the show, seating is then opened up to those who are standing in line. Also, keep in mind if you wait in line for the 2nd or 3rd show of the night, that you will be hearing the show before yours as it is performed.

Don’t want to stand in line? You can always stroll by the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase to listen to the music and wonders of Christmas with out any sort of planning ahead.

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The Candlelight Dinner Package includes a great meal (there is a link to the menus below) – and here’s what every meal includes – no matter where you eat: 

• Appetizer • Entree • Dessert • Non-alcoholic beverage (OR one full buffet where applicable!)

If you don’t have a dining plan – here are your prices per person for the meal included in the package (pricing etc. is credit wdwinfo.com):

*Price includes tax, but not gratuity and are subject to change.*

Biergarten – Germany

  • Lunch: $35.14 (Adult)  $19.16 (Child)
  • Dinner: $55.37 (Adult)  $28.75 (Child)

Chefs de France – France  

  • Lunch: $59.63 (Adult)  $15.97 (Child)
  • Dinner: $74.54 (Adult)  $21.29 (Child)

Coral Reef– The Living Seas

  • Lunch: $57.50 (Adult)  $14.90 (Child)
  • Dinner: $69.22 (Adult)  $19.16 (Child)

Garden Grill – The Land

  • Dinner: $57.50 (Adult)  $29.81 (Child)  

La Hacienda de San Angel – Mexico

  • Dinner: $69.74 (Adult)  $17.58 (Child)

Nine Dragons Restaurant – China

  • Lunch: $41.53 (Adult)  $13.84 (Child)
  • Dinner: $53.74 (Adult)  $18.10 (Child)

Restaurant Marrakesh – Morocco

  • Lunch: $42.59 (Adult)  $14.90 (Child)
  • Dinner: $53.24 (Adult)  $18.10 (Child)

Rose and Crown – UK

  • Lunch: $46.85 (Adult)  $13.84 (Child)
  • Dinner: $59.63 (Adult)  $19.16 (Child)

San Angel Inn – Mexico

  • Lunch: $51.98 (Adult)  $15.18 (Child)
  • Dinner: $65.82 (Adult)  $17.58 (Child)

Teppan Edo – Japan  

  • Lunch: $63.89 (Adult)  $17.03 (Child)
  • Dinner: $74.54 (Adult)  $20.23 (Child)

Tokyo Dining – Japan  

  • Lunch: $63.89 (Adult)  $17.03 (Child)
  • Dinner: $74.54 (Adult)  $20.23 (Child)

Tutto Italia – Italy

  • Lunch: $58.57 (Adult)  $15.97 (Child)
  • Dinner: $71.35 (Adult)  $10.23 (Child)

Via Napoli – Italy

  • Lunch: $43.66 (Adult)  $14.90 (Child)
  • Dinner: $56.44 (Adult)  $19.16 (Child)

Here’s a tip: If you are already planning to dine at one of the restaurants in the package, take a look at the menus from around the World – and see if the price of a ticket works out better for you.

If you have a Disney Dining Plan – it will be accepted as follows: 

Magic Your Way Plus Dine – 2 TSR entitlements
Magic Your Way Plus Deluxe Dine – 2 TSR entitlements
Magic Your Way Quick Service Dine – Not eligible
Magic Your Way Premium Package
Magic Your Way Platinum Package

Christmas at Epcot

Guests are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes early to their dining reservation to check–in. Guests will receive Candlelight Seating badges at the restaurant for guaranteed seating at the America Gardens Theatre for the booked show time and for viewing of IllumiNations: Reflection of Earth (Epcot fireworks).

Click here to check out a FREE Disney holiday activity – seeing all the resort decorations!

World Secrets – 5 things you may not know about DiVine

Published February 19, 2013 by Disneyways.com

Experiencing a “DiVine” intervention during your visit to Animal Kingdom!

While walking through Animal Kingdom near Bradley Falls – on the pathway between Africa and Asia – you may see a curious site. A small crowd of park guests looking up, pointing and others walking by who will do a double take once they realize what is going on. Have they all lost their minds? Perhaps. It is more likely however that they  are admiring one of the most fantastic characters inside Animal Kingdom. Her name is DiVine, and she has been entertaining at Animal Kingdom since 1998.  She’s a character who is hired by Disney to help convey the park’s theme of teaching us that nature is invaluable.  She’s painted green, walks on stilts, and is wrapped in leaves and ivy to camouflage herself into the rest of the park’s foliage. In fact, if you get near her before the crowd gathers – you may find that DiVine blends so completely with Animal Kingdom’s dense flora that you may never notice her until she moves. These are photographs I took of her from a beautiful February day in 2013.

Look closely, I promise there is a person in every single one of these photos.

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Do you want to know more DiVine secrets?

1.Truth be told there is more than one person who portrays DiVine, and she actually does not work directly for Disney. She is contracted by Disney through a company called Living World Entertainment.  Not only does DiVine appear at Disney’s Animal Kingdom she can also be booked for parties or other special occasions and events outside the theme park. Imagine the laughs you could get watching your friends and family react to this amazing creature appearing in your own back yard!

2. Everyone who portrays DiVine must have a background in dance and fine arts, and is expected to meet certain height and weight requirements. How does she stay so fresh in the hot summer months? Well, she uses a special body spray so the leaves and ivy don’t fall off of her. It is amazing to think of the time and attention to detail DiVine must go through in order to entertain guests.

3. DiVine can typically be found near the pathway between Africa and Asia inside the Animal Kingdom.  But did you know she also has appeared on occasion near the front entrance to the park?  Normally you will want to look for her between 10:00AM and 2:00PM.  She is not always listed on the Times Guide, but on this particular day I really lucked out and she was there.

4. DiVine does not make eye contact. In fact she often keeps her eyes closed and the expression on her face looks much like she is enjoying pure nirvana. You will never hear her speak. Like most plants – she is a great listener I suppose. She obviously cannot sign autographs, but I found her to be very accommodating to my camera and almost it was almost as if she were posing just for the entire crowd. She continues her contortions and movements while entertaining the crowd.

5. DiVine is on stilts so her height can vary between 7 and 16 feet depending on what she is doing with her hands and legs. She was so gorgeous and graceful, I could not resist filming her as well, and you can see the results of that below.

DiVine is fabulous and really something special. Next time you are in Animal Kingdom, I hope you’ll take the time to see her if you can.

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Are you Missing The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights in 2020? Me too. Here’s an Alternative!

Published November 17, 2020 by Disneyways.com

Most Disney fans, like me, are probably a little nostalgic for the beloved Osborne Family Lights – formerly presented at Disney’s Hollywood Studios around this time of year! But take heart, if you are visiting Orlando for the holidays, we have an alternative. I was so thrilled to be invited to the media preview (it’s been months) and to bring you the details of this event. Watch facebook for my live coverage on Monday November 23rd 2020 in the evening.

This year, we can Immerse ourselves in a million lights at ‘Dazzling Nights,’ – and never have to set foot on Disney property! This interactive holiday event at Leu Gardens is Presented by AdventHealth and brought to you by Creative City Project and Memoir Agency.

Orlando’s Harry P. Leu Gardens will transform into a magical wonderland featuring a million dazzling lights, shining forests, magical displays and beautiful sculptures during “Dazzling Nights,” a new family friendly adventure that gives guests the opportunity to embark on a three-quarter-mile interactive holiday experience.

This spectacle is created by the team who brings the IMMERSE Festival to Downtown Orlando every October and presented by AdventHealth and promises to be an awe-inspiring holiday event.


A few snapshots of the adventure :

When you arrive at Leu Gardens, they will have a photo opportunity in front of a unique, 30’ tall towering Christmas tree.
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Interactive lights on the ground light up and ring like holiday bells when stepped upon.
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You will journey through a forest of light and fog, as if walking through the aurora borealis.
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Immerse yourself in a 65’ long tunnel of wondrous light.
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And the evening wouldn’t be complete without snow and holiday tunes.

(SIDE NOTE!!! Live music NOT provided by my favorite – Peter Alden – but I’m sure the group they hired will be good too! ha!) 


The outdoor event is designed to ensure adequate social distancing and safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and visitors will be required to wear masks.“When we began dreaming about a holiday experience, we knew it had to be more than just lights on trees,” says Creative City Project Executive Director, Cole NeSmith. “We’re always asking how we can create unique, creative experiences that will inspire our guests. Some of the installations are breathtakingly epic, and others are quite intimate. We think adults and kids, alike, are going to want to make this an annual tradition.”


Dazzling Nights will feature lights, music, and interactive elements to complete the transformation of the 50-acre, Harry P. Leu Gardens into a stunning holiday wonderland.
“Our holiday traditions may look a little different this year because of COVID, and that gives us an opportunity to find new ways to discover joy, feel whole and find inspiration this season,”
said Sharon Line Clary, vice president of marketing at AdventHealth. “We encourage our neighbors to visit Dazzling Nights, take in the fresh Florida air and celebrate the holidays at the beautiful Leu Gardens with your loved ones.”


“AdventHealth is the perfect partner for Dazzling Nights,” says NeSmith. “They are committed to the wholeness and healing of all people, and I think Dazzling Nights will do just that. I’m excited to see spirits lifted among families and groups of friends as they share this meaningful experience together.”

Here are the details! 

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE DAZZLING ORLANDO WEBSITE 

LOCATION : Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando.
DATES : Dec. 1 to Jan. 3. To ensure the safety of guests, timed entry will take place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
TICKETS : $22 per person and can be purchased at dazzlingorlando.com
PARKING : On-site parking is available for a small fee. Complimentary parking and a shuttle will be provided off -site at Blue Jacket Park, 2501 General Rees Ave., Orlando. 

Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms – Journey to the Four Realms: A Spoiler- Free Review by guest author Chrissy Lin

Published November 15, 2018 by Disneyways.com
Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms – Journey to the Four Realms: A Spoiler- Free Review by guest author Chrissy Lin
An age old tale about a Sugar Plum Fairy and a Nutcracker falling in love…or wait, was it an age old story about a little girl who dreams of her Christmas toys coming to life…or….oh dear…I have a confession to make–I’ve never seen the original Nut Cracker!
I don’t know anything about the story, and until I looked it up online, I really only had a vague idea of what it might, possibly, be about!  I know, I know, have I grown up under a rock?  It might seem like it!  But let me tell you, that did not matter one tiny bit as I sat mesmerized by Disney’s new “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms.”
Hear me for just a minute…
Sheer…Visual…Gorgeousness!!  
From the moment this delightful movie begins, you are thrown into a glittering world where heartbreaking reality meets a softer side of steampunk, culminating in a sweet story that has familiar elements and characters from the original Nutcracker story, without following that beloved story even one tiny bit.
I am a huge fan of several of the actors, most notably the amazing, talented, oh so epically regal, Helen Mirren, who played Mother Ginger.  Morgan Freeman was a delightful mixture of mystery and mischief in his role as Drosselmeyer, but it was my particular favorite, Matthew Macfadyen (with whom I fell in fan girl love when I saw him in Little Dorrit), who stole the show for me as Mr. Stahlbaum. His ability to convey deep emotion with just a soft catch in the back of his throat added depth and heartache in all the right places.  These three, along with strong performances from Jayden Fowora-Knight (Phillip the Nutcracker), Keira Knightley (Sugar Plum) and MacKenzie Foy (Clara), breathed new life into characters who have danced the same dance for more than 100 years.  Completely and utterly family friendly, there was only one PG word uttered, and only one or two moments with a PG scare.  I have a 5, 7, and 11 year old, and I wouldn’t hesitate to let any of them watch it.  In fact, I’m really looking forward to discussing the gorgeous and creative costumes with my eldest daughter.  Lead costume designer Jenny Beaven outdoes herself with exotic costumes that deserve a “nosed pressed to the screen,” loooonnnnnngggggggggg pause on your DVR to truly experience and appreciate her work.  Any aspiring costume designer would do well to take notice of all the little details she adds to make her outfits fantastically fantastical works of art. All in all, when you add up the NEW heart warming story line, the depth of feeling brought by the actors, and the glittering, high fantasy fashion of the costumes, you end up with a movie worth watching on the silver screen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Chrissy Lin is a Senior Style Dots boutique partner, a wife, and a mother of three. Follow her on Facebook at  Chrissy Has Dots and join her VIP Style Dots FB group at  Chrissy‘s Dot VIPS!!!!! If you love jewelry or just love to buy gifts – check out a sparkly selection HERE.

 

 

A new music video featuring Andrea Bocelli and his 20-year-old son Matteo Bocelli singing the beautifully poignant “Fall on Me” from Disney’s “Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is now available.

Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms – Journey to the Four Realms Featurette

Disney’s “Nutcracker and the Four Realms” in theaters November 2, 2018.

“Olaf’s Frozen Adventure”

Published June 13, 2017 by Disneyways.com

WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS UNWRAPS
“OLAF’S FROZEN ADVENTURE”
New Disney Holiday Featurette to Debut in Front of
Disney•Pixar’s “Coco” on Nov. 22, 2017

Olaf (voice of Josh Gad) teams up with Sven on a merry mission in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 21-minute featurette “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.” It’s the first holiday season since the gates reopened and Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) and Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel) host a celebration for all of Arendelle. When the townspeople unexpectedly leave early to enjoy their individual holiday customs, the sisters realize they have no family traditions of their own. So, Olaf sets out to comb the kingdom to bring home the best traditions and save this first Christmas for his friends. Directed by Emmy®-winning filmmakers Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton (“Prep & Landing”), produced by Oscar® winner Roy Conli (“Big Hero 6”), and featuring a screenplay by Jac Schaeffer and four original songs by Elyssa Samsel and Kate Anderson, “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” opens in front of Disney•Pixar’s original feature “Coco” in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017.

Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS) and Pixar Animation Studios are teaming up this holiday season when WDAS’ new featurette “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” opens in front of Disney•Pixar’s original feature film “Coco” on Nov. 22, 2017. The new trailer for the featurette will run in front of Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 3,” beginning this Friday, June 16, when Lightning McQueen’s new big-screen adventure opens in theaters nationwide.

“I’m thrilled that Disney Animation’s featurette ‘Olaf’s Frozen Adventure’ will be coming to theaters in November with Pixar’s ‘Coco,’” said John Lasseter, chief creative officer, Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios. “It’s a perfect pairing – they’re both beautiful, heartfelt films about families and how people carry traditions forward. I can’t wait for audiences to get to see both of these terrific projects together on the big screen.”

Featuring four new original songs, the 21-minute featurette welcomes the original cast and characters back to the big screen, including Olaf (voice of Josh Gad), who is on a mission to harness the best holiday traditions for Anna (voice of Kristen Bell), Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel) and Kristoff (voice of Jonathan Groff). Directed by Emmy®-winning filmmakers Kevin Deters and Stevie Wermers-Skelton (“Prep & Landing”), produced by Oscar® winner Roy Conli (“Big Hero 6”), with original songs by Elyssa Samsel and Kate Anderson (“Between the Lines”), “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” will be in theaters for a limited time beginning Nov. 22.

“Stevie and I were deeply honored to be entrusted by John [Lasseter] to create an all-new story with these characters we love,” said Deters. “We’re thrilled to have our film play on the big screen with ‘Coco’ during the holidays.”

“We loved getting in the recording booth with these incredible actors who know their characters inside and out,” added Wermers-Skelton. “We can’t wait for audiences to see the featurette, enjoy their performances, and hear the incredible new songs written by Elyssa and Kate.”

“Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” celebrates characters who won over audiences worldwide when “Frozen” first hit the big screen in 2013. Earning more than $1.27 billion globally, the film won two Academy Awards® (best animated film and best original song with “Let It Go”) and a Golden Globe® (best animated feature film). Slated for November 2019, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ untitled feature-length follow-up to the hit film reunites filmmakers Jennifer Lee, Chris Buck and Peter Del Vecho with the Grammy®- and Oscar®-winning songwriting duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.

ABOUT DISNEY•PIXAR’S “COCO”
Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of newcomer Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself magically transported to the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist “Monsters University”) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”), Disney•Pixar’s “Coco” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017.

Friends of Disneyways

Published November 3, 2015 by Disneyways.com

Starting this blog has blessed my life in more ways then I could have ever dreamed. Making so many new friends in the Disney community is certainly at the top of the list. On this page you will find Disney related businesses that have been given my personal stamp of approval!

*Disclaimer* I  have received gifts or sponsorship money to place these logos here. However I only endorse businesses that I have personally worked with and believe in!

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homes4uulogo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From our readers:

Hi Krista. I waited on you awhile back at Portobello for lunch. Since then I have become a fan of your blog.
I wanted to personally thank you for posting the pictures of The Land. I am a sucker for any kind of Christmas decorations so I rode it today to check it out. It has been years since I have been on that ride despite how often I am at EPCOT. I had forgotten what a cool and relaxing ride that is. If you hadn’t posted about it I wouldn’t have tried it again.
Keep up the great information and hopefully we will meet again at some Disney function:)

-Jenny Trogdon

I just wanted to send you a quick note and thank you for keeping me company at the party last weekend. I look forward to working with you more.
I took out your card when I got home, and Luke, Claire’s boyfriend, from Tennessee looked at it and said his family had actually been to your site… they are from Tennessee, but his mom and aunt are huge Disney fans and he recognized your site… VERY awesome.

-Mindi T.G.

Krista, hello. You were passed on to me by a friend after a recent Disney World trip. I’m a 43 year-old father of 8 wonderful children and husband to a amazing wife (for 13 years). I’m at a particularly low point in my life now and just wanted to reach out to you to say thanks – thanks for sharing your passion – it brings a happy tear to my eye from time to time. You’re Blessed Krista. Thank you from a small insignificant man here in KS who loves his family SO much – and truly believes that Disney World is the most magical place I have ever been to in my entire life – a man who, through a tarnished childhood, was able to find joy in Disney – to find happiness. A man who misses Disney like you’d never believe – but is happy for people, such as yourself, for expressing their Disney joy.

God Bless you Krista!
Sincerely,
Rob

 

 

Tis The Season To Be…Jolly?

Published October 31, 2015 by ltdjosh

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Most people that know me know that I’m a Christmas nut, as well as a Disney nut. So it’s no surprise that I’m a huge fan of the holidays at Disney. However, even I am a little shocked by the recent announcement made by Disney about the taping of the annual Christmas Parade, to be shown on Christmas Day on ABC. Typically, this parade is filmed the first week of December at Walt Disney World, and in November at Disneyland. However, this year they decided to reverse the roles and scheduled the taping of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Christmas Parade for November 10 – 13, 2015. This is the earliest that the parade has been taped. While there is no “official” statement from Disney execs on the reasoning behind this change, it is rumored that the change was made due to crowd levels. The parks are typically slower at the beginning of November as opposed to December, so there will be less congestion to deal with during the parade taping. I have been to a parade taping (2013) and it can get VERY crowded, especially if you’re in the park to enjoy a normal day and not participate in the parade taping. Whatever the reasoning will be, it is sure to be a blast. The theme for this year’s Christmas Parade is “Disney Parks Unforgettable Christmas Celebration”. Thankfully, they are ditching the Frozen theme from last year and going with a more traditional theme. Parade taping will begin each day around 9am and continue until approximately 5pm (could begin later and could end later) and will focus on Main Street USA and the Castle Forecourt Stage. This is not a ticketed event, so anyone with access to Magic Kingdom can be a part. There is no official schedule of what will be filmed when, either, so your best bet is to be there all day each day to see everything.

 

10277448_10152220823381036_4050401386084466142_nJoshua Snyder is an avid Disney fanatic. He recently moved back to Indiana after spending 2 years living his dream in Orlando, FL. When Josh isn’t dreaming about the parks, he’s helping people plan their dream vacations. As a Dream Designer with My Mickey Vacation, Josh loves helping people make their Disney dreams come true. He is also the senior writer and head of the writing team at Living The Dream Podcast. Josh can be reached at joshua.snyder@mymickeyvacation.com for travel agent inquiries, or at joshua.livingthedreampodcast@gmail.com for all other inquiries.

MagicBands in Colors and Characters ~ An Awesome Photo and Video Tour

Published October 15, 2015 by ltdjosh

Here it is – your fully comprehensive guide to Disney World MagicBands from the past and present!

If you are following along here on Disneyways, you have definitely heard about MagicBands. We published a sneak peek for you back in 2013! These convenient little bands are your everything inside the resort: your room key (if staying on property), your park tickets, your payment method (if you have a credit card on file to charge to your room), your dining plan holder, etc. Since rolling out the original MagicBands a couple of years ago, the Walt Disney company has added some unique and limited edition MagicBands among Disney Parks guests. As these became more and more popular, Disney decided to start making Limited Edition MagicBands for special events and such. The last year saw an increase in the number of limited edition MagicBands, especially during Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I’ve included a good portion of the Limited Edition MagicBands that have been produced by Disney this year. Since we are still a few months away from Food & Wine Festival, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2015, I’ve included pictures and videos of the bands from previous years. Hopefully Disney will delight us with even better bands this year for all of these events. If something you were looking for is no longer in stock – or if you require something even MORE customized – be sure to check out out friends at MagicYourBand.com and MyFantasyBands.com. I hope you enjoy our little tour of the Disney Parks Limited Edition MagicBands. Special thanks goes out to Disneyways reader Brandon Wolgast for providing so many wonderful photos!

To start our tour, I’ll choose the first big event of the year, EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival. Held each spring, the Flower & Garden Festival really brings EPCOT to life in breathtaking beauty. The theme this year was, of course, Frozen and the MagicBands matched the frozen theme. The band has a picture of Anna & Elsa on one side and a nice floral pattern on the other. This was a limited edition of 5,000.

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The following video shows what the band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Next up we have the MagicBands from the Frozen Summer Fun event held at Disney’s Hollywood Studios last year. I have not seen or heard of any from this year, but that could be a mistake of my own. These bands sold out fairly fast and were very cute. These had a picture of Olaf on one side with the words “Chilling in the sunshine” above him and “Frozen” on the the other side. Limited edition of 5,000 as well.

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The following video shows what this band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Next we have a generic Olaf MagicBand that, suprisingly, is still in circulation and available in the parks (as of a month ago – found in Animal Kingdom for sale). These MagicBands aren’t for any particular celebration other than celebrating the awesomeness that is Olaf. On one side they have a picture of Olaf in a Santa hat and on the other side it has snowflakes. This is a limited edition of 4,000.

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The following video shows what this band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Next comes the magic that is Star Wars Weekends. As the force descends upon Disney’s Hollywood Studios for weekends throughout May, MagicBands of all sorts and star systems show up. This year had a fairly impressive line-up, including Mickey, Donald and a couple of lightsabers for Galactic Gathering guests. First up is the Donald MagicBand. On one side you have Donald holding a purple lightsaber (I thought only Mace Windu had a purple saber, but that’s me). On the other side, you have the Star Wars Weekends logo. These were a limited edition of only 2,500 and sold out very quickly.

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The following video shows what this band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Next we have the Jedi Mickey band. This band has Jedi Mickey on one side holding a non-impressive (in my opinion) light blue lightsaber. On the other side there is the Star Wars Weekends logo. These were also a limited edition of 2,500 and sold out quickly as well.

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The following video shows what this band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Next up you have the two most limited edition bands found in the park this year: the red lightsaber and green lightsaber from the Galactic Gathering. These were only available to Galactic Gathering guests and were an extremely limited edition of only 350 for the red and 330 for the green. These awesome bands look like a lightsaber from one side to the other. I only have pictures available of the green, but they are identical in everything but the color.

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The following video shows what the red band (first video) and green band (second video) does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Next up we have the bands from last year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. These bands have the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party logo on one side and a cool Halloween themed design on the other. These were a limited edition of 5,000 and were originally only available during the Halloween Party. However, they did not sell out so they were later released as general sale items.

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The following video shows what this band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

Finally, we have the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party bands. These are candy cane colored and have the party logo on one side and Mickey & Minnie on the other. These were again a limited edition of 5,000 and originally only sold during the Christmas party, but never sold out at the party so were released later.

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The following video shows what this band does when touched to a touch-point in the park.

I hope you enjoy our little tour through the MagicBands. This is in no way a comprehensive list of every available MagicBand (that would take a very long time to compile and would be out of date as soon as it was posted) but a list for you to enjoy and know about. Have a happy day and we’ll see you with your MagicBand very soon! AND for great ways to spruce up your ordinary MagicBands, visit our friends at MagicYourBand.com and MyFantasyBands.com.

Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World Celebrates First Holiday Season by Joshua Snyder

Published November 26, 2014 by jpmdo

four seasons hotel

If you’re one of the thousands of people that want to escape the wintry doldrums to someplace nice and warm, the Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World has holiday excitement to spare as it celebrates its first Christmas season.

As you enter the lobby of the resort, you’re greeted by a beautifully decorated 12 foot Christmas tree, along with festive wreaths and columns wrapped in garland, seasonal floral arrangements, and a few surprises. You’ll also get a chance to view Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber’s gingerbread masterpiece while sipping on complimentary cider and hot chocolate from 2:00pm to 5:00pm daily.

If you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth, you’re covered too. Throughout the resort there are chances to try sweet delicacies, such as peppermint bark, gingerbread cookies, ice cream (served each afternoon in The Hideout) and an awesome chance to decorate your own holiday cookies with Chef Saber on select dates. Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi has even created some gelato masterpieces for the season such as chocolate peppermint, gingerbread, and cranberry (yum).

The resort also offers a complimentary kids camp each day for kids 4-12 years old. Open from 10:00am to 6:00pm, the Kids For All Seasons has all sorts of offerings for children, ranging from lazy river races to face painting and candy cane scavenger hunts. Each week the KFAS camp will also offer classic holiday movies along with a chance to write a personalized letter to Santa.

four seasons hotel kids club

And of course you can’t forget the adults. The resort offers Mixology Classes each week, taking place in the Ravello demonstration kitchen from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. These classes are led by a highly qualified team of master mixologists and range from rum based cocktails to cocktails from exotic locales. These classes are sure to be a hit and may fill up quickly. And for those looking to catch a quick NFL football game, they can visit Ravello Bar, which will be transformed into Cigar City Brewery’s Fan Club. And don’t forget to check out the spa and golf course for special holiday offerings as well.

Of course, who can pass up an excellent dining adventure during the holidays? Not this writer. In addition to the character breakfasts offered daily from the resort, they will offer special holiday dinners at several of the resorts restaurants. In PB&G, you can find a Craft Beer & Holiday Cheer event, held on December 19th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. At a cost of $49.00 per person, this event includes small hors doeuvres and unlimited (yes, unlimited) beer tasting on more than 20 season beers across the country with a souvenir 5-ounce glass to take home with you. The resort’s Cuban American restaurant, Plancha, will be offering an amazing family style dinner Cuban-style. Chef Pedro Sanchez Negron will be presenting a few of his family’s favorite holiday recipes, offering a new and exciting take on the traditional Christmas dinner. Dinner at Plancha will be served December 22nd from 7:00pm to 10:00pm and will cost $55 per adult and $22 per child. On December 29th, Plancha will transform and offer a unique Turkish take on Christmas dinner. At a cost of $75 per adult and $26 per child and will feature fresh vegetables, herbs, and fish with a Turkish flair. On Christmas Eve, Ravello will offer a five-course prix-fixe dinner menu for $95.00 per person. Also, Capa will serve a prix-fixe dinner menu for the same price on Christmas Eve. On Christmas Day, look for a brunch buffet served at Ravello at a cost of $95.00 per adult and $35.00 per child. Capa will once again offer a prix-fixe dinner menu at a cost of $95.00 per person. On New Year’s Even the resort comes to life with several different dining options. At Ravello, enjoy an amazing holiday buffet for $115.00 per adult and $45.00 per child. At Capa, they will offer two seating options for dinner: between 5:00pm and 7:00pm they will offer a three-course prix-fixe seating at a cost of $145.00 per adult and $65.00 per child. They will also offer a second, five-course prix-fixe seating between 8:00pm and 11:00pm at a cost of $295.00 per adult and $95.00 per child. Both seatings at Capa will offer access to the amazing New Year’s Eve “After Party”, held in the grand Ballroom. Featuring a DJ, dance floor, balloon drop, cash bar, appetizers, deserts, and more, this event is not to be missed. Resort guests also have the option of attending the “after party” with dining reservations for a rate of $65.00 per adult and $35.00 per child. Kids For All Seasons will be open New Year’s Eve for Resort guests only at a cost of $95.00 per child.

four seasons hotel ravello restaurant

Space for most of these options is limited, so make sure to make your reservations early by calling the resort at 407-313-6161.

What holiday options will you and your family enjoy most at Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World? I’d love to hear your stories and see your pictures. You can send them to joshua@mousehunterstravel.com with the subject line “Four Seasons Holidays”.

Joshua Snyder is a Disney fanatic and Travel Agent, working with MouseHunters Travel. He is an annual passholder for Walt Disney World, Sea World, Aquatica, and Universal Studios. In his spare time, he enjoys reading everything he can about the parks and visiting as frequently as possible. He currently resides in the Orlando, FL area. He can be reached at joshua@mousehunterstravel.com.

Grateful

Published December 27, 2013 by Disneyways.com

I was what you might call a “surprise” Christmas baby. Born on December 26th – my Mom said I was her “Christmas Joy” so she named me Krista Joy. She always went out of her way to make sure my birthday was special and totally separate from Christmas. This year was no different. December 14th, 2013 I arrived at her house to meet with everyone for family portrait day. After a few hundred pictures or so family portraits – this amazing group of people totally surprised me with a cake, presents and a song! To say I was surprised is an understatement. THANK YOU to all my wonderful friends and family for your birthday wishes.

The day of my actual birthday I was overwhelmed by about 175 birthday messages on facebook. I love you all…and thank you for filling up my facebook wall with such sweet messages. I can’t begin to tell you how touched I am that so many of you wonderful people took time out of your day to leave me a note.  My day was so much more brighter knowing that you’re all a part of it.

I am so very GRATEFUL for each of you.

 

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