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John and Donna Gross "The Full Mickey - At a Discount!" The Wall Street Journal
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Disney Planner: Special Holiday Edition Glistening Ice Palace Illuminates Magic Kingdom to Begin Walt Disney World Resort Transformation Into Festive, Fun-Filled Winter Wonderland The ‘Turn On’ of the Season LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Walt Disney World Resort blings in the holidays Nov. 10 with sparkling, jewel-like crystals adorning the iconic Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom - a glistening light-show spectacular signaling the beginning of Disney seasonal merriment. By late November, festivities will blanket the Vacation Kingdom as Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney take the wrappings off their own Santa sleighfuls of yuletide gaiety. But guests can get in the spirit beginning Nov. 10 by beholding the 200,000 twinkling lights of Disney’s newest holiday tradition - Castle Dream Lights! - in Magic Kingdom. Donning their holiday finest, Cinderella and friends take to the Cinderella Castle stage daily for a dream-come-true, light-the-night moment. Nov. 10 also marks the first of 18 select evenings when Magic Kingdom hosts the long-running Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. During this popular special ticket event, guests are treated to "Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade," "Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season" fireworks spectacular plus special holiday-themed shows featuring Disney characters decked out in their seasonal finest, carolers, festive tree lightings and more. The "Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" celebrates the festive moods of the season with dancing snowflakes, marching toy soldiers, horse-drawn sleighs, enchanting floats and spirited characters all proceeding through the streets of the theme park in a merry and melodic cavalcade. During "Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season," the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes. Favorite attractions also are open throughout the evening, and while forecasters predict the first snowfall of the season will swirl a winter-like effect down Main Street, U.S.A, guests can take heart: there’s hot cocoa and cookies to add a warm spirit, plus apple slices and apple juice as the perfect trimming for a not-to-miss outing for the whole family. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates are: Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30; Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19. Advance tickets and information are available now at disneyworld.com/holidays or by calling 407/W-DISNEY. Holiday Allure Galore in Store Walt Disney World Resort unwraps more wintertime wonderment throughout property beginning Nov. 28. Here’s the lineup: * Epcot Presents Holidays Around the World - International holiday traditions unfold throughout World Showcase Nov. 28-Dec. 30 when storytellers portraying cultural icons of the season - such as France’s Pere Noel, Italy’s LaBefana and America’s Santa Claus - spread messages of goodwill. Nighttime sparkles with a luminous light bridge adorning the breezeway to World Showcase Plaza, where guests can see a magnificent holiday tree. And to cap off the day, Epcot’s kaleidoscope of lasers, lights, fireworks and music - "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" - takes on a spirited holiday finale. * Candlelight Processional at Epcot - A heartfelt holiday tradition led by a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra showcases the reason for the season Nov. 28-Dec. 30. Staged at America Gardens Theatre at 5, 6:45 and 8 p.m., Candlelight Processional features a celebrity narrator who retells the joyous Christmas story. The narration is interspersed with memorable music. Performances are included with Epcot admission. Special dining packages that include preferred seating for this beloved event also are offered by calling 407/WDW-DINE. Scheduled celebrity narrators include (subject to change):
11/28-30 John O’Hurley * The Osborne Family’s Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios - Bathed in bulbs of brilliance, New York Street glows with millions of dancing lights and animated displays in a revered Disney holiday tradition Nov. 28 through Jan. 4, 2009. Amidst gently falling snow, guests will bask in the glow as twirling carousels, melodic angels, colorful wreaths, marching toy soldiers and Santa and his reindeer move to high-energy music and 3-D effects, creating a dazzling symphony for the senses. This enchanting spectacle results from a crew of 18 electricians working some 14 weeks using six miles of rope lights, 84 angels and 66 snow machines. * Disney’s Animal Kingdom - "Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade" gets a holiday makeover Nov. 28 through Jan. 4, 2009, when it is magically transformed into "Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade." This rompin’ spectacle is a theatrical showcase of characters with whimsical floats and puppetry with a holiday world-beat twist. Guests also can meet Disney characters decked out in their holiday best at Camp Minnie-Mickey which also features live seasonal entertainment, holiday photo opportunities and decorative Christmas trees. * Festival of the Seasons at Downtown Disney - There are enough toys to fill up Santa’s sleigh at stores such as Once Upon a Toy, World of Disney, Team Mickey’s Athletic Club and the LEGO Imagination Center. Guests can finish their holiday shopping at this one-stop mecca featuring something for everyone on their list - Basin bath and body shop, Arribas Brothers, Disney’s Days of Christmas holiday shop, Fuego by Sosa Cigars and more - and enjoy the dazzling light display and holiday décor that adorns the Downtown Disney streets Nov. 28-Dec. 24, 2008. To make arrangements for a holiday vacation at Walt Disney World Resort, guests can visit www.disneyworld.com, call the Disney Reservation Center at 407/W-DISNEY, or consult with a local travel agent. (Source: Press Release, 07/07/08) |
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Independence Day Sparkles Across Walt Disney World Resort With Star-Spangled Pyrotechnics Performances LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- A popular July 4th tradition at Walt Disney World Resort will continue this year as star-spangled salutes to America's independence are presented all across the Florida Vacation Kingdom. Here's some of the fireworks fun scheduled for July 4 this year: * A Fourth of July "Concert in the Sky" will light up the night at Magic Kingdom in honor of Independence Day. Featuring a magnificent display of aerial fireworks, dazzling pyrotechnic effects and dynamic music, the show, entitled "Disney's Celebrate America!-A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky," is a grand tribute to the United States, its people and traditions. The special show is scheduled for 9 p.m. Magic Kingdom also will feature two performances of the "SpectroMagic" nighttime parade, first at 10:30 p.m. and then again at 12:30 a.m. that same night. * A holiday-inspired finale will be added to Epcot's nightly fireworks extravaganza, "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth." The park's American Adventure pavilion also will feature enhanced entertainment throughout the day, with visits from historic characters who will share their stories. American Adventure also will feature additional performances of its signature musical group, Voices of Liberty, performing patriotic classics. * Disney's Hollywood Studios will present a special July 4th fireworks show at 9 p.m., with skyrockets and patriotic music filling the air at the showbiz-themed park. The park's popular "Fantasmic!" show, featuring fireworks, animation, dancing waters and Disney characters, will be presented on July 4 at 10:30 p.m. * Downtown Disney will present July 4th fireworks at 10:30 p.m. for the revelers, shoppers and diners enjoying the nighttime entertainment district. (Source: Press Release, 06/17/08)
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party dates for 2008:
November 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30 Tickets go on sale May 1. You can call or use the consumer web site. These tickets are non returnable and non changeable.
Beth, a subscriber, writes:
We understand that Disney does NOT allow Santa outfits in the parks. I assume the same rule applies to Downtown Disney and the resort hotels as well. Disney is probably afraid of some predator using the outfit to attract children. It also confuses the children who may see 15 different santas in one day! And - perhaps the real reason - Disney wants to have absolute control over anyone wearing a costume on their property.
Elsewhere Around the Vacation Kingdom… Spectacle of Dancing Lights Brightens Disney-MGM Studios -- The Streets of America backlot again will sparkle brightly as millions of twinkling lights dancing to music illuminate the area Nov. 12 through Jan. 6, 2008, during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by SYLVANIA. Amid "Florida snow" flurries, the building facades, trees and streets of the Disney-MGM Studios backlot dazzle with three-dimensional and motion-based displays -- some originally created at the Osborne home in Arkansas by businessman Jennings Osborne as a holiday display for the delight of his daughter. After the Arkansas home exhibit grew larger and brighter over the years, the million-light display was transported to Disney-MGM Studios in 1995, where the spectacle continues to grow larger and brighter each year. Some of Osborne's original creations still sparkling brightly at the park today include dozens of flying angels and Santa Claus light designs. Holiday cheer continues with the daily "Hollywood Holly-Day Parade" decked with favorite Disney characters in their holiday best, parading down Hollywood Boulevard. Disney's Animal Kingdom Decked for the Holidays -- Celebrate safari style as Disney's Animal Kingdom is wilder than ever this winter season. Mickey and his pals rejoice in traditional holiday music with a world beat twist during the daily "Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade," from Nov. 12-Jan. 6, 2008. At Camp Minnie-Mickey, guests can meet Disney characters dressed in their holiday best or enjoy carolers performing seasonal classics at Santa Goofy's Holiday Village. The village is decorated with Christmas trees and features live entertainers and holiday photo opportunities. (Source: Press Release)
For Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers' photos of Disney's Christmas
Parade, see:
Christmas by the Numbers at Walt Disney World Resort LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Miles of garland, ribbon, twinkling lights and glitter transform Walt Disney World Resort into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Here's a sample of what guests will experience throughout the Vacation Kingdom: * 1,500 decorated trees throughout property * A wreath 25 feet in diameter adorning the Cirque du Soleil building at Downtown Disney West Side * 34,000 feet, or 6 miles, of twinkling rope lights in the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney-MGM Studios * 150 tractor-trailer truckloads of decorations adorning 22 resorts, 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, Downtown Disney and more * 15 miles of garland strung throughout the Vacation Kingdom * More than 300,000 yards of ribbon and bows draping over Christmas trees across property * 8 million lights hung throughout Walt Disney World Resort * 11 countries dressed for Holidays Around the World at Epcot World Showcase * 1 tree at Disney's Contemporary Resort with a base 26 feet wide * One 45-foot-tall centerpiece tree in Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa lobby featuring nearly 60,000 miniature LED lights * 6 life-sized creations cooked up by Walt Disney World pastry chefs featuring: One 16-foot-tall gingerbread house at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa baked with 1,050 pounds of honey and decorated over 160 hours One life-size gingerbread carousel at Disney's Beach Club Resort made with 100 pounds of sugar, 50 pounds of dark chocolate and 36 pounds of honey * 800+ holiday musicians, characters, storytellers, singers and entertainers performing daily throughout all four theme parks * 100% chance of snow flurries during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, taking place on select holiday evenings in Magic Kingdom * 365 days of the year that guests can shop for holiday merchandise at the Disney Christmas Shop in Downtown Disney Marketplace (Source: Press Release)
Delicious Holiday Designs on Display at Walt Disney World Resort LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Pastry chefs throughout Walt Disney World Resort make things a little sweeter with deliciously decorative displays and sugar shacks made of yummy ingredients during the winter holidays. These candy-decked dwellings adorn the lobbies at various Walt Disney World resort hotels beginning in November. On the menu this holiday season at Walt Disney World Resort: Disney's Beach Club Resort A fully detailed, life-sized carousel in the resort's lobby is created from a recipe that uses gingerbread, chocolate, sugar paste and tons of enthusiasm, energy and talent. Guests who wish to take home a treat of their own can buy small gingerbread houses from the Beach Club Marketplace. Pastry chefs give demonstrations on select days to provide guests with tips on creating a gingerbread invention at home. Carousel fun fact: seven "hidden Mickeys" can be found on the carousel. Ingredient fun facts:
36 lbs. of honey
The lobby of Disney's Yacht Club Resort becomes home to a delectable scene in motion: A miniature New England-style train races through a sugary rock mountain surrounded by a candy-coated model village in this don't-miss edible display. One lucky guest will be chosen daily to meet Chef Stefan Riemer for treats and a photo during "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration at Walt Disney World Resort.
The lobby of Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a "Home for the Holidays" scene with an artfully crafted miniature train made of gingerbread and chocolate. Walt Disney World pastry chefs also create small souvenir gingerbread houses which are offered for sale at the BoardWalk Bakery.
A holiday toy shop made of sugar and chocolate, featuring Pinocchio himself, is the sweet spot for guests to purchase treats and toys on the first floor of the tower building.
Opening to guests Nov. 19 is a gingerbread house large enough that it doubles as a real bake shop in the Grand Floridian lobby. Featuring gingerbread using a classic Austrian recipe, the bake shop offers freshly baked items such as cookies and gingerbread ornaments. Other homemade items for sale include Stollen Bread, chocolate peppermint bark, lollipops and special Grand Floridian logo boxes filled with truffles. Demonstrations of how to decorate a gingerbread house take place in front of the Gingerbread House six days a week. Gingerbread house fun fact: Chefs spend 400 hours baking the gingerbread and 160 hours decorating the house. Structure Composition:
16 feet high
1,050 lbs. honey Santa's Gingerbread Bake Shop at Liberty Inn at American Adventure enchants guests of all ages. Guests peer inside the life-sized gingerbread house at goodies galore. The giant structure, made entirely of gingerbread, cookies and icing, features more than 800 pounds of sugar and more than 1,000 eggs. Inside the bake shop, Christmas cookies and hot and cold beverages, as well as souvenir gingerbread recipe cards, may be purchased. Opens in late November. (Source: Press Release)
Walt Disney World Resort Rings in a Happy New Year With Parties, Extended Hours and Fireworks Galore Walt Disney World guests can count down to midnight and ring in 2008 with a dazzling display of entertainment, parades, fireworks and extended hours throughout the Vacation Kingdom on New Year's Eve. Throughout the final evening of the year, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island will be transformed into one big, high-energy street party for partygoers 21 and older: six-hours of fun overflowing with live music, dancing, a sampling of gourmet delights, a champagne toast, plus spectacular fireworks. The party will take place from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. and will include a countdown to 2008 and a special fireworks celebration only Disney can deliver. Each guest on New Year's Eve will welcome 2008 with festive hats and noisemakers, plus a delectable dinner buffet and a midnight champagne toast -- all part of the admission price. Admission to this special-ticket New Year's Eve party is $99 plus tax and includes entry to all seven themed nightclubs at Pleasure Island. Annual passholders can purchase up to two tickets at $89 each plus tax. For more information or to order advance tickets, call 407/W-DISNEY. Other Disney celebrations and New Year's Eve theme park hours: # Disney-MGM Studios is aglow with the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by SYLVANIA. Millions of sparkling lights adorn the Streets of America backlot through Jan. 6, 2008. Special New Year's Eve park hours: 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Special entertainment includes a trio of "Fantasmic!" fireworks shows -- at 6:30, 8:30 and 10 p.m. -- plus a special showering of fireworks at midnight. # Donning hats and noisemakers, revelers can party on until 1 a.m. at Magic Kingdom with double the parades and fireworks. Guests can count down to the magical hour with the "SpectroMagic" parade at 7 and 10:30 p.m., plus "Holiday Wishes" fireworks at 8:30 p.m. and "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks at 11:50 p.m. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m. # A special version of "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" laser-light spectacular will be presented at 7:30 and 11:40 p.m. at Epcot. Latin crossover band Papo's Groove and the energetic DJ Indio Davila will entertain partiers at America Gardens Theatre, while the big band swing music of the Tom Butler Orchestra will fill World Showplace. Rockers can boogie down at Scooter's dance party at the Fountain Stage, plus techno rock at the China pavilion and classic rock 'n' roll at the Italy pavilion in World Showcase. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m. # "Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Expedition" parade, an outrageous street party starring favorite Disney friends, winds through Disney's Animal Kingdom at 3:45 p.m. Park hours 8 a.m.-8 p.m. # At Downtown Disney, Cirque du Soleil fans can celebrate the New Year La Nouba style with two presentations of the theatrical production, at 6 and 9 p.m. A champagne toast celebration, souvenir program, glow sticks and gift are included in the special ticket price. Tickets are from $67 to $139, plus tax, depending on category. # Disney Cruise Line brings in the new year with ship-wide festivities on New Year's Eve and a New Year's Day tailgate party. (Source: Press Release)
For a video of the Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld, see:
To read the Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers' review of "ICE"
- a walking tour of ice sculptures - at the Gaylord Palms, see:
"Cypress Gardens' Old Fashioned Christmas begins today at 6:30 p.m.
with the lighting of its Christmas tree. Among this Winter Haven park's offerings
are a living nativity show, an ice-skating presentation, carolers and some
of Cypress' Gardens original decorations on display."
"Walt Disney World is giving its Cinderella Castle a new nighttime,
ice-palace look for the holiday season, starting tonight... The ice-palace
look will be the big special effect of a new evening show running through
the holiday season, featuring the characters of Cinderella, including her
fairy godmother."
Disney is taping segments for its Christmas parade November 30 and
December 1. Donna and I were there once when Regis and Kathy Lee were taping.
They stopped the parade so many times that we felt it was easier to watch
it on TV! Orlando Sentinel's Theme Park Rangers talk about what you may or
may not see.
Disney Season: Dateline Disney - November/December 2007 It's a season of cheer during November and December 2007 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., as elaborate holiday decorations begin to sparkle and yuletide traditions get underway across the Vacation Kingdom. But Mickey has plenty more "gifts" tucked under his holiday tree for guests, including special events to delight art lovers and collectors, followers of daytime drama, PGA TOUR fans and more. Here's a peek at what's in store: # Disney-MGM Studios: Largest soap opera fan event in the world returns to Disney's showbiz-inspired theme park # Disney Sports: Fore! Children's Miracle Network Classic continues tradition of PGA TOUR events at Walt Disney World Resort # Downtown Disney: Long-running Festival of the Masters showcases the best in fine art # New Disney Merchandise: New Cinderella Castle artwork by "Painter of Light" Thomas Kinkade released # Epcot: Theme park's 25th anniversary inspiration for new exhibit # Disney Resorts: Mickey Mouse, phone home; Segways go "off-road" in new guest tour # 'Tis the Season: Annual holiday fun begins all across the Florida Vacation Kingdom -------------------------------- ABC Super Soap Weekend Features More Than 30 of America's Favorite Daytime Stars in 12th Annual Theme Park Fan-Fest "The View's" new co-host, Sherri Shepherd, will join Susan Lucci from "All My Children" and more than 30 other ABC Daytime stars for the 12th annual ABC Super Soap Weekend, Presented by Colgate Total, Nov. 10-11, at Disney-MGM Studios. Also featured at this year's event: Cameron Mathison, who stars on "All My Children" and the ABC smash-hit primetime show, "Dancing with the Stars," plus stars from SOAPnet's original primetime drama, "General Hospital: Night Shift." Event festivities include celebrity motorcades, autograph sessions, talk shows, interviews and the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind memorabilia from each of the shows. The Colgate Total Street Jam will close the event each day with live musical performances by favorite Daytime stars. Throughout the star-studded weekend, fans will have the opportunity to meet favorite stars from "All My Children," "One Life to Live," "General Hospital" and "General Hospital: Night Shift" in autograph sessions. For updates and more information about ABC Super Soap Weekend, guests may call the Super Soap Hotline recording at 407/397-6808 or check online at abcdaytime.com. Activities are included with regular admission to the Disney-MGM Studios theme park. -------------------------------- Children's Miracle Network Classic Brings PGA TOUR Pros to Disney The 2007 Children's Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart will be played Nov. 1-4 on Disney's Magnolia and Palm courses, with practice rounds Oct. 29-31 on the same Walt Disney World Resort layouts. While the event has a new name and sponsor, the 2007 Children's Miracle Network Classic marks a continuation of the longest-running PGA TOUR event in Central Florida -- a 37-year heritage that has produced a champions list which includes Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Vijay Singh, Payne Stewart and many more top professional golfers. As the last event on the 2007 TOUR schedule, the Classic takes on added significance for many golfers striving to earn full playing exemptions for 2008 by finishing among the top 125 money winners in 2007. The purse is $4.6 million, with a share of $828,000 to the winner. Tickets ($30 for one tournament day, $50 for the whole week including practice days) can be purchased online at childrensmiraclenetworkclassic.com or at the tournament entrance. Guests can call the Classic hotline at 407/824-2250 for more information. -------------------------------- Festival of the Masters Art Show Returns to Downtown Disney with More Than 150 Artisans, Folk Art and Interactive Fun for the Family The lakeside setting of Downtown Disney becomes the canvas for more than 150 artisans to display original creations during the 32nd annual Festival of the Masters presented by Sharpie Nov. 9-11 at Walt Disney World Resort. Sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, and digital art are just some of the art genres showcased at the judged art show annually ranked among the country's best outdoor art festivals. The fine arts awards ceremony will take place Saturday at 3 p.m. on the stage near Virgin Megastore. This year's event also will feature: # street painters from the Central Florida Chalk Artists Association who will decorate some 6,000 square feet of sidewalk with unique drawings # live music, face painting and interactive zones for young art lovers # the 9th annual "Where the Art Meets the Soul" Folk Art Festival, House of Blues' celebration of folk art at Downtown Disney West Side # Disney Performance Artists Trevor Carlton and Stephen Reis, who will create an original masterpiece just outside Virgin Megastore on Saturday, Nov. 10, at 1 p.m. The original artwork will be available for purchase through a silent auction. Festival hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission is complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, contact 407/824-4321 or visit disneyworld.com/artfestival. -------------------------------- Famed 'Painter of Light' Thomas Kinkade Creates Cinderella Castle Art World-renowned "Painter of Light" Thomas Kinkade has created a work of art commissioned by Walt Disney World Resort entitled "A New Day at the Cinderella Castle" featuring the luminous light and serene ambiance that is a hallmark in each of Kinkade's paintings. It is the first Kinkade painting to feature the famous Walt Disney World theme park icon. The new rendering is offered as a giclee on canvas and a giclee on paper at Art of Disney locations at Walt Disney World Resort. -------------------------------- Epcot History Now on Display to Mark Theme Park's 25th Anniversary The Epcot 25th Celebration Gallery, an exhibit showcasing archived images, music, artwork, storyboards, design models, costumes and memorabilia from Epcot's opening day on Oct. 24, 1982, is now open at Epcot. The 1,300-square-foot gallery is located inside Innoventions West. Some of the notable items on display, all lovingly restored for the exhibition: # the original model for Spaceship Earth, featured just inside the exhibit entrance # original models of three World Showcase pavilions -- Germany, Canada and The American Adventure # the original "Dreamfinder's Dream Machine" # the Horizons robot character The gallery also celebrates the people who brought Walt Disney's dream and the legacy of Epcot to life. The exhibit includes several elements used by Imagineers to illustrate the design process, including concept art, color boards, maquettes, props and costume design. -------------------------------- Surprise Them with a Disney Vacation ... and a Phone Call from Mickey What could be more exciting than opening presents on Christmas morning? How about this: getting a call from Mickey Mouse announcing the ultimate gift -- a 2008 Walt Disney World vacation? Between Nov. 23 and Dec. 23, guests who book select vacations to Walt Disney World Resort can sign up to receive a very special call from Mickey Mouse on Christmas Day, surprising their family with the vacation news. And the time has never been better to visit the Vacation Kingdom in Florida, with more than a million dreams being given away during the extension of "The Year of a Million Dreams" celebration in 2008. Vacation rates including theme park tickets start as low as $58 per person per day based on a 6-night, 7-day stay for a family of four in one standard room at a select Disney Value Resort. To book a vacation and schedule a surprise call from Mickey, guests may visit disneyworld.com/gift or call 407/W-DISNEY between Nov. 23 and Dec. 23. -------------------------------- Segways Take Guests 'Off-Road' in New Recreational Tour at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground A new "off-road" Segway experience is now available at Walt Disney World Resort, taking guests along backwoods trails at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground aboard the Segway X2 personal transporter featuring deeply treaded tires and higher ground clearance than other Segway models to provide a smooth, stable ride through trail-like terrain. The two-hour "Wilderness Back Trail Adventure," which starts with a training session about the X2, is offered twice a day on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Cost is $85. Guests must be 16 years or older to participate and reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407/WDW-TOUR. -------------------------------- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Returns to Magic Kingdom For a quarter century, Walt Disney World guests have been entertained and mesmerized by Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, a special after-hours event in Magic Kingdom that has added an extra night this season -- meaning there will be 19 evenings of holiday fun: Nov. 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30 and Dec. 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21. The fun begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours. Guests can enjoy festive surprises including an all-new Castle Light Show. Cinderella Castle is adorned with thousands of shimmering white lights, covering the turrets and towers like a glistening blanket of ice. The twinkling lights create an elegant wintry effect perfect for the seasonal celebration. "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" celebrates the many festive moods of the holiday season, showcasing a series of holiday themes including a Friends and Family Christmastime Party, a sleigh ride through a Winter Wonderland, a romantic Fairy Tale Christmastime, a scrumptious display of Christmastime sweets, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus in a grand finale. And for longtime Disney Christmas parade fans: soldiers, snowflakes and dancing deer are all still in the parade. The parade features original music as well as both classic and current holiday tunes. Admission to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party requires a separate ticket. Tickets are $47.95 plus tax for ages 10/up and $40.95 plus tax for ages 3-9 (but with advance purchase, guests can save $7 per ticket for select dates). Note: Many party nights are sold out in advance. To purchase tickets, guests can call 407/W-DISNEY or visit disneyworld.com/holidays. -------------------------------- Spectacle of Dancing Lights Brightens Disney-MGM Studios The Streets of America backlot at Disney-MGM Studios will sparkle brightly with millions of twinkling lights Nov. 12 through Jan. 6, 2008, during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by Sylvania. Amid "Florida snow" flurries, the building facades, trees and streets of the cityscape backlot dazzle with three-dimensional and motion-based displays. The millions of lights are synchronized and "dance" to festive holiday tunes nightly. Elsewhere in the theme park, the seasonal fun continues with the daily "Hollywood Holly-Day Parade" decked with favorite Disney characters in their holiday best. -------------------------------- Disney's Animal Kingdom is Decked Out for the Holidays Guests to Disney's Animal Kingdom can celebrate "safari style" with Mickey, Minnie and their pals in "Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade," from Nov. 12-Jan. 6, 2008. Meanwhile at the park's Camp Minnie-Mickey, guests can meet Disney characters dressed in their holiday best and enjoy carolers performing seasonal classics at Santa Goofy's Holiday Village. The festive village is decorated with Christmas trees and features live entertainers and special holiday photo opportunities. -------------------------------- Epcot Presents Holidays Around the World with Candlelight Processional World Showcase transforms into a splendor of international holiday traditions and storytelling when Epcot presents Holidays Around the World Nov. 23-Dec. 30. Holiday icons -- such as France's Père Noël and Italy's La Befana -- make special appearances in their respective countries, while Santa Claus himself pays visits to The American Adventure. Hanukah and Kwanzaa customs are also showcased. A highlight of Holidays Around the World, Candlelight Processional, treats guests to a grand musical performance featuring a mass choir and a full orchestra, accompanied by a celebrity narrator who retells the beloved story of Christmas. Presentations are daily at America Gardens Theatre (seating is limited). Scheduled celebrity narrators include (subject to change): # Nov. 23-25: basketball legend David Robinson (NBA's San Antonio Spurs) # Nov. 26-28: actor John O'Hurley (Seinfeld, Dancing with the Stars) # Nov. 29-Dec. 1: actor Neil Patrick Harris (Doogie Howser, M.D., How I Met Your Mother) # Dec. 2-4: actor Dennis Franz (Die Hard 2, NYPD Blue) # Dec. 5-7: actress/singer Monique Coleman (High School Musical, High School Musical 2) # Dec. 8-10: contemporary Christian singer Steven Curtis Chapman (Speechless, The Moment) # Dec. 11-13: Broadway theater legend Chita Rivera (Kiss of the Spider Woman, The Rink) # Dec. 14-16: TBD # Dec. 17-19: actor Kirk Cameron (Growing Pains, Left Behind: The Movie) # Dec. 20-22: actor Edward James Olmos (Miami Vice, Battlestar Galactica) # Dec. 23-25: actor Gary Sinise (Forrest Gump, CSI: NY) # Dec. 26-28: singer, dancer & actress Rita Moreno (The Electric Company, West Side Story) # Dec. 29-30: actress Marlee Matlin (Children of a Lesser God, The West Wing) There's still more holiday fun included with Epcot admission: # At nightfall, Mickey Mouse and his friends host a gala tree-lighting ceremony -- Mickey's Tree Lighting Treat -- complete with music and storytelling, in World Showcase Plaza. # A dazzling synchronized light show -- The Lights of Winter -- illuminates a canopy adorning the World Showcase breezeway bridge. # The laser, lights and fireworks spectacular, "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth," complete with a holiday finale, caps the celebration. -------------------------------- Pleasure Island Plans 6-Hour 'Street Party' on New Year's Eve Throughout the final evening of the year, Downtown Disney Pleasure Island will be transformed into one big, high-energy street party for Walt Disney World partygoers 21 and older: six-hours of fun overflowing with live music, dancing, a sampling of gourmet delights, a champagne toast, plus spectacular fireworks. The party will take place from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. and will include a countdown to 2008 and a special fireworks celebration only Disney can deliver. Each guest on New Year's Eve will welcome 2008 with festive hats and noisemakers, plus a delectable dinner buffet and a midnight champagne toast -- all part of the admission price. Admission to the special-ticket party is $99 plus tax and includes entry to all seven themed nightclubs at Pleasure Island. Annual passholders can purchase up to two tickets at $89 each plus tax. For more information or to order advance tickets, call 407/W-DISNEY. -------------------------------- Walt Disney World Theme Parks Ring in a Happy New Year With Extended Hours and Fireworks Galore Walt Disney World guests can count down to 2008 with a dazzling display of entertainment, parades, fireworks and extended hours throughout the Disney theme parks on New Year's Eve. Here's what's in store: # Disney-MGM Studios is aglow with the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights presented by Sylvania. Millions of sparkling lights adorn the Streets of America backlot through Jan. 6, 2008. Special New Year's Eve park hours: 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Special entertainment includes a trio of "Fantasmic!" fireworks shows -- at 6:30, 8:30 and 10 p.m. -- plus a special showering of fireworks at midnight. # Donning hats and noisemakers, revelers can party on until 1 a.m. at Magic Kingdom with double the parades and fireworks. Guests can count down to the magical hour with the "SpectroMagic" parade at 7 and 10:30 p.m., plus "Holiday Wishes" fireworks at 8:30 p.m. and "Fantasy in the Sky" fireworks at 11:50 p.m. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m. # A special version of "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" laser-light spectacular will be presented at 7:30 and 11:40 p.m. at Epcot. Latin crossover band Papo's Groove and the energetic DJ Indio Davila will entertain partiers at America Gardens Theatre, while the big band swing music of the Tom Butler Orchestra will fill World Showplace. Rockers can boogie down at Scooter's dance party at the Fountain Stage, plus techno rock at the China pavilion and classic rock 'n' roll at the Italy pavilion in World Showcase. The park is open from 8 a.m.-1 a.m. # "Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade," an outrageous street party starring favorite Disney friends, winds through Disney's Animal Kingdom at 3:45 p.m. Theme park hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. -------------------------------- Cirque du Soleil Toasts New Year with La Nouba Presentations Cirque du Soleil fans visiting Walt Disney World Resort for the holidays can celebrate the New Year La Nouba style with two presentations of the theatrical production, at 6 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 31, at Downtown Disney West Side. A champagne toast celebration, souvenir program, glow sticks and gift are included in the special ticket price. Tickets are from $67 to $139, plus tax, depending on category. (Source: Press Release)
'Spooktacular' Fun Awaits Magic Kingdom Guests During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in 2007 With 20 spooktacular party nights scheduled, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a one-of-a-kind Halloween bash that immerses guests in the fantasy of Magic Kingdom -- and it's bigger than ever in 2007. The lightly frightful fun for the whole family begins at 7 p.m. (after regular park operating hours) and continues until midnight. Separate admission is required. Each date features trick-or-treating throughout the park and the Halloween-themed fireworks spectacular "Happy HalloWishes." The event also showcases the newly expanded "Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade." Guests, who are welcome to attend wearing Halloween costumes, can also experience some of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions. Guests looking for ghostly tricks during the party are in for a very special treat -- a newly refurbished Haunted Mansion attraction has re-opened its gates just in time for the fall season. The supernatural classic has received an "Extreme Mansion Makeover" including: new show scenes, enhanced sound and visual effects and even a few ghoulish surprises. Guests can save $7 per ticket for all event nights except Sept. 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 18, 25, 26 and 31 by purchasing tickets in advance, by calling 407/W-DISNEY or visiting disneyworld.com/halloween. Advance tickets are $38.95 plus tax for ages 10 and above, $32.95 plus tax for ages 3-9. Children under 3 are admitted at no charge. Day-of tickets and tickets for the Sept. 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12, 18, 25, 26 and 31 event nights are $45.95 plus tax for ages 10 and above, and $39.95 plus tax for ages 3-9. Entertainment is subject to change without notice. (Source: Press Release, 09/24/07) For a video of Disney's current Halloween parade and fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom see: http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_orlando/2007/10/boo-to-you.html
Disney Season - Fall 2007: It’s a Party Spirit at Walt Disney World Resort Here's what's in store in late 2007 across Walt Disney World Resort: Playhouse Disney in Concert: A playful musical extravaganza with headliner The Doodlebops will have tykes laughing, dancing and singing during the return of Playhouse Disney in Concert performances Aug. 30-Oct. 28 at the Disney-MGM Studios theme park. The lively weekend concerts are taking place as part of Little Ones Travel Time, a specially created travel season featuring resort hotel packages, targeted online planning tools, Little Ones Magic Hours in Fantasyland, new guidemaps, and services devoted to families traveling with toddlers or preschoolers. In addition to The Doodlebops, kids can bop to the catchy tunes of Disney Channel favorites including Imagination Movers, Johnny and the Sprites and Dan Zanes and Friends. Scheduled acts include:
Shows will be presented at 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. at Coaster Courtyard Concert Stage near Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and The Twilight Zone(TM) Tower of Terror. For more information on Little Ones Travel Time, guests may visit disneyworld.com/PreK. Night of Joy 2007: Celebrating its milestone 25th year, Disney's contemporary Christian music event will feature Third Day, Chris Tomlin and David Crowder*Band on the marquee of a nine-act lineup of Christian music artists Sept. 7 followed by newsboys, Steven Curtis Chapman and Salvador spearheading a nine-act lineup Sept. 8 at the Magic Kingdom theme park. The talent bill, a combination of celebrated Christian music veterans and heralded newcomers, will showcase:
The Saturday entertainment lineup also will include a "Best of Show" winner from the Gospel Music Association's 33rd annual Music in the Rockies event. Night of Joy, which requires a special ticket, begins at 7:30 p.m. (after regular theme park closing) and continues to 12:30 a.m. Advance tickets ($41.95 plus tax for one night, $71.95 plus tax for both nights) are available by calling 407/W-DISNEY or by visiting disneyworld.com/nightofjoy online. Tickets purchased on the date of the event will be $46.95 plus tax, if available (Note: Night of Joy is frequently sold out in advance). Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Spreads Pixie Dust to Magic Kingdom: A second Walt Disney World location of Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Disney's magical makeover salon for young princesses and cool dudes, opens in September in Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom theme park. For guests outside the park, the first salon is located at Downtown Disney Marketplace, inside the World of Disney Princess Room. Princesses can choose from three makeover packages -- the Coach makeover (hairstyle and shimmering makeup), the Crown makeover (hairstyle, nails and shimmering makeup) and the Castle makeover (hairstyle, nails, shimmering makeup, an imaging package and princess costume complete with crown, wand and shoes). Within each makeover package, young princesses can choose from three different hairstyles -- the Disney Diva, the Pop Princess or the Fairytale Princess. The Magic Kingdom salon will be open every day from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Children must be three years or older and theme park admission is required. Reservations are recommended, and can be made by calling 407/WDW-STYLE (407/939-7895) up to 180 days in advance. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: On select nights between Sept. 14 and Nov. 2, the Magic Kingdom theme park will be full of treats -- no tricks! -- during the popular Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Scheduled dates for the special-ticket event are: Sept. 14, 21, 28, 30; Oct. 4, 5, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31; and Nov. 2. Guests are invited to dress in costumes (Disney characters are decked out in their Halloween attire as well) and trick-or-treat through the park, after-dark (the party begins at 7 p.m. -- after park closing -- and ends at the wonderfully witching hour of midnight). The family-friendly fun includes the "Boo-to-You" Halloween parade and the bewitching "Happy HalloWishes" fireworks spectacular. The most popular Magic Kingdom attractions are operating, too. Tickets are $45.95 plus tax (ages 10-up) and $39.95 plus tax (ages 3-9), with advance-purchase savings available for 12 select evenings. For additional ticket information, guests can visit disneyworld.com/halloween online or call 407/W-DISNEY. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: A showcase of paintings inspired by food and wine sets the scene for sipping and sampling at the 12th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 28-Nov. 11. More than 25 international marketplaces serve tapas-sized portions of regional specialties ($1.50-$4.50) with wine and beer pairings, daily seminars offer complimentary tastes of wine, beer and food from around the world, and nightly Eat to the Beat! concerts performed at America Gardens Theatre offer a lineup of classic rock, oldies, jazz and funk hit-makers. To pop the cork on each week, a special-ticket Party for the Senses grand tasting features entertainment by Cirque du Soleil on Saturday evenings. Other festival highlights include:
Most activities are included with admission. Activities that require reservations and separate admission include Party for the Senses, Food and Wine Pairings at Epcot restaurants, Exquisite Evenings at Epcot dinners, Epcot Wine Schools, Regional Feasts and other specialty events. Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (407/939-3378) to make reservations for special events and programs. Festival details are available at: disneyworld.com/foodandwine. PGA TOUR Event -- In recognition of the 20 years of Children's Miracle Network support from Wal-Mart and Sam's Club, the full name of the 2007 tournament will be the Children's Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart. Part of the PGA TOUR's Fall Series, it is scheduled for Oct. 29-Nov. 4 as the final official-money event of the year. It will be held on the Magnolia and Palm courses, with GOLF CHANNEL televising all four rounds. Defending champion is Florida native Joe Durant. A money-saving weekly badge which provides admission to the general grounds during all four tournament days and during practice rounds costs $50. A single-day ticket for a tournament round costs $30, while a single-day ticket on practice days costs $10. All tickets can be purchased online. Guests can call the Children's Miracle Network Classic Hotline at 407/824-2250 for more information. New Dining Options at Disney's Animal Kingdom: Beginning in November, guests who travel to the land of Asia in Disney's Animal Kingdom will get a real taste of that exotic part of the world with the opening of Yak & Yeti Restaurant. Inspired by the western Himalayan foothills in India and Nepal, this Asian-fusion establishment will offer table-service dining and a full-service bar, as well as quick-service food and beer-garden options, plus retail offerings from Pan-Asia ranging from silk purses, incense and saris to fine teapots. It will seat 250 inside for table-service dining and 350 in a quick-service courtyard. Elsewhere at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Tusker House Restaurant in the Africa section of the park reopens in November, converted to a buffet restaurant that includes a character breakfast, Donald's Safari Breakfast. Hours are 8-10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. until the park closes. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating. At the same time, Restaurantosaurus in the DinoLand U.S.A. section will alter its operation, opening daily at 10:30 a.m. (Donald's Breakfastosaurus at Restaurantosaurus closes Nov. 5) and offering quick-service until park close. Festival of the Masters: More than 200 award-winning national and local fine artists will showcase their diverse creations at Downtown Disney West Side Nov. 9-11 during the 32nd annual Festival of the Masters. This art festival for all ages includes live music and entertainment, chalk art sidewalk displays at Downtown Disney Marketplace and a children's activity area where budding young artists can create their own masterpieces. Event hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. each day of the festival. Admission and parking are complimentary. For more information about Festival of the Masters, guests may contact 407/824-4321 or visit disneyworld.com/artfestival. ABC Super Soap Weekend: The largest annual soap opera fan event held anywhere in the world, ABC Super Soap Weekend, returns to the Disney-MGM Studios theme park Nov. 10-11. More than 30 stars from the ABC Daytime dramas "All My Children," "One Life to Live" and "General Hospital" step off the television screens and into the theme park in meet-and-greet autograph and photo sessions, celebrity motorcades, star conversations, interactive games and special Street Jam concert performances. Celebrity-worn costumes, props and exclusive event merchandise also are available at the event's Soap Central merchandise gallery. Admission to the event is included in regular admission to Disney-MGM Studios. Event details are available at: disneyworld.com/supersoap. Holiday Fun, Disney-Style!: The holidays sparkle all across Walt Disney World Resort, with a sleigh-full of seasonal celebrations to put everyone in the yuletide spirit. Here's a sampling of the fun in store ... * Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: On 19 select evenings -- the most ever! -- in November and December, guests can experience the enchantment of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" and the excitement of a holiday-themed fireworks spectacular inside the Magic Kingdom theme park. Dates for 2007 are: Nov. 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30; Dec. 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 21. The jingle-jolly event also features live entertainment, character greetings, cookies and cocoa, and even "snow" on Main Street, U.S.A. Plus, the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions are open to party guests. Admission to this event requires a separate ticket. (Tip: Guests are advised to purchase tickets in advance, as many nights are expected to sell out.) * Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights: As "snow" falls overhead, the Streets of America backlot cityscape at Disney-MGM Studios comes alive Nov. 12-Jan. 6, 2008, with millions of sparkling -- and dancing -- holiday lights during the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. Snowflakes glisten, carousels twirl, toy soldiers march and Santa and his reindeer take flight in animated displays. The synchronized music and light show is presented in collaboration with famed Arkansas businessman Jennings Osborne, who developed the dazzling display for his daughter more than a decade ago at his Little Rock, Ark., home. The spectacle is included with Disney-MGM Studios admission. * Holidays Around the World/Candlelight Processional: An Epcot tradition continues with holiday customs from around the globe, international storytellers, a nightly tree-lighting ceremony featuring Disney characters and a stunning display of snow-white and colored lights. From Nov. 23-Dec. 30, Candlelight Processional -- a longtime and beloved Disney tradition -- will feature celebrity guest narrators accompanied by a mass choir and 50-piece orchestra for a retelling of the Christmas story. Shows are at 5, 6:45 and 8 p.m. (Tip: Candlelight Processional is a popular show, so guests are advised to arrive early.) All of the Epcot holiday fun is included with regular theme park admission. (Source: Press Release, 08/01/07)
Disney needs choirs to apply for its Walt Disney World Candlelight Processional that takes place at Epcot every holiday season. Click here for the application. Celebrity narrators for this year's event include:
David Robinson Nov. 23-25 (Source: disneyyouthgroups.disney.go.com)
"The toy soldiers have survived another year! And so have their peers, the roller-skating snowflakes and the dancing reindeer." They're all set to make their appearance in Disney’s Christmas parade. (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com, 07/20/07)
Beth, our travel agent, writes: "I thought I'd toss in my comments for what it's worth because so many families head to WDW for Thanksgiving. I agree with you that it's fun to go when the decorations are all up, but they aren't ALL up until the day after Thanksgiving, at which point the Candlelight Processional and other holiday activities begin. It's like getting two holidays for the price of one! When it comes to room rates, though, you have to be careful... There will almost certainly be some sort of offer out for November and early December, but the days right around Thanksgiving are usually considered "soft blackout" dates. That means that if you're arriving at the resort prior to those dates the discounted rate can carry through, but you can't arrive ON one of the blackout dates and get the discount. Last year the blackout dates were Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Thanksgiving week so that's a good bet for this year. Also, while the discounts may technically apply to the dates if you arrive before the blackout, they have very few rooms at the discounted rates. Many people don't understand that only a certain number of rooms per night at each resort are set aside as "discounted inventory" and the number of rooms given to that inventory varies based on many factors. Thanksgiving is a really popular time, so those nights will only have a fraction of the inventory available - and if even one night out of the dates you ask for isn't available Disney reservationists will just say that your dates aren't available. You have to push them to tell you what night or nights are messing up your request. Then you can either try another resort for the whole time, or split your stay amongst two or more resorts so that you're getting a discount the whole time. And as always, the key is to BOOK EARLY if you have your heart set on it. I always keep a list of people already booked that are waiting for discounts so that I can try to convert the rates within the first few hours of an offer, but if you've booked directly you'll need to be watching and jump right on it. And that's my two cents!"
Lisa writes: "Hi John. I will be taking my second WDW trip w/all your tips in hand with my exchange student from Thailand. She is thrilled beyond words to be going to the most All-American place there is!!! I know last year our trip nearly coincided with Disney’s "Gay Days" - I definitely want to avoid that this trip as well. When does this week run thru? I won’t book my hotel until I hear back from you!!! Thanks a million -- again."
Cynthia writes: "My niece, and my best friend's daughter, are graduating from high school in May. We decided to take them to WDW in celebration of this event. We have planned to go May 23-27, however, I wanted to find out from you if this is a good time to go. We will only have three days in the parks so I want to go during a time when we can cover a lot of ground and the girls can get the most out of their experience. I believe that is the week before most schools let out for the summer, but I'm not sure. Thanks so much for the great newsletter and online book. We always enjoy out Affordable Disney breaks! God bless." It is the week before many schools let out. However, the regular season includes April 17 - August 27. Crowds will be heavier than if you were going during the value season: January 1 - February 16, August 28 - October 4, November 27 - December 19. Still, you will be out of there before the Memorial Day weekend visitors crowd the parks. Thanks for your kind comments!
"Sure, there are the theme parks, especially the Disney ones, all bedazzling in their Christmas finery... But, for me, it isn't Christmas until I've toured Central Florida hotel lobbies... And seeing a decorated hotel lobby is a lot cheaper than visiting a theme park..." Gaylord Palms: 54-foot Christmas tree in the 4.5-acre atrium-lobby; brunches with Mrs. Santa at Villa de Flora. Disney's Grand Floridian: old-fashion decorated tree in the atrium-lobby; 16-foot-high gingerbread house and gift shop; pianist playing Christmas music; free roasted chestnuts The Ritz at Grande Lakes Orlando: Santa's Bakery in the lobby; baking demonstrations at 11 AM and 5 PM; free samples of Christmas goodies; Dickens Era Carolers; a Teddy Bear Tea for kids
Renaissance Resort (opposite SeaWorld): bow-wrapped glass
elevators with views of the atrium; Venetian aviary in the lobby with tree
and poinsettias Hard Rock Hotel: big tree with red ribbons and white lights; two Nutcracker sentinels guard the tree Hyatt Regency Grand: huge tree in the lobby Disney's Beach Club Resort: life-sized gingerbread carousel
Disney's Yacht Club Resort: miniature train with village and mountain
-------------------------------- "These 'Haunted Hayrides' have become a Halloween tradition at the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. And folks who have actually experienced this after-dark excursion through the woods will tell you that it's the scariest thing that they've ever done." Tickets are only available on the day of the hayride at the Fort Wilderness Kennels. To get one of these tickets before they're sold out, be sure to be at the Kennels at 9 AM when the office opens.
Times: 7 PM - 10 PM For more information, call 407/824-2900. (Source: JimHillMedia.com)
Sarah writes: "Do you know when WDW takes down their holiday decorations and concludes the holiday celebrations? We are trying to plan a trip for Jan. but would like to see all the holiday shows. I can't get anyone to talk to on the phone at Disney World. Any help is appreciated. Thank you!" Celebrations end New Years. They will begin taking the Christmas decorations down January 1, but there's a lot of them. If you arrive the first week in January, you may still be able to see some of them before they're all packed away.
Amy, a Lifetime Member, writes: "I was writing to see if anyone has ever written in about the Night of Joy concerts at the MK. I was looking into it for my 9 and 11 year old, but don't want to waste the time and money if the crowds are too big and if we won't be able to enjoy it. Thanks for the help." The place is full of teens who can be pretty loud and hyperactive. If it's crowded, expect long waits to get on the rides and buses will be crowded at closing time.
Beth, our travel agent, sent us her Halloween trip report: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party "None of us (three adults and two children, ages 5 and 6) had done this event before and really didn't know what to expect. First of all, the Magic Kingdom was really all decked out for this. They even had orange spot lights on the trees as you approached the Magic Kingdom, and a thick blanket of "fog" creeping into the area. Inside the gates, pumpkins and haystacks and Halloween balloons were everywhere, and the park music for the evening was Halloween-appropriate. We arrived right about 7:00 as the party officially started, and we were all given small black and orange trick-or-treat bags as we entered. The candy locations were clearly marked with giant green balloon-like things, and there were plenty of these stations all over the park, but for the most part the candy was pretty disappointing. We got a lot of Jolly Ranchers and Starburst Fruit Chews. Tweedle Dum took a liking to my daughter and showered her with tiny boxes of Junior Mints and bite-sized Nestle chocolate bars, but that's about as good as it got. In other words, don't bill this as an alternative to trick-or-treating at home. The vast majority of children were in costume, and a good number of adults were as well (although adults not in costume were numerous enough that you couldn't really go wrong either way). HINT: Don't bring hand-held props (like magic wands or light sabers) because you need your hands for other things, and because children tend to flail their props around, making them a potential safety hazard. Also, be sure costumes fit loosely enough so as not to hamper getting on and off attractions. The parade was done twice, but we only watched the first one. We grabbed a great spot on the wall in Frontierland about ten minutes before the starting time of the parade - and then we waited, and waited, and waited. The Headless Horseman rode through as the parade began at the foot of Main Street - and that was REALLY a wondrous thing to behold, given that the rider can't see a thing and it's up to the horse to get through the parade route at a gallop - but then it took a long time for the rest of the parade to catch up. It was worth the wait, though, despite it's shorter-than-normal length. Every costume and float that I saw was unique to what I've seen in other Disney parades. By the time we saw the 8:00 parade, it was time to go find a spot for the 9:15 fireworks. We raced through the square and then toward the Crystal Palace, cutting across Main Street and heading up to my favorite terrace for watching fireworks. If you go during the day you can see the wire that Tinkerbell flies on and it goes right over the tables and chairs of the Plaza Pavilion, but the terrace was closed and roped off! So we turned around and ran back a few steps to the outdoor seating area of Main Street's Plaza Restaurant. The dining terrace along the water is normally closed off for VIP fireworks viewing, but this night it wasn't and so we ran down and grabbed a table and five chairs. We were in place by 9:05, but the 9:15 fireworks didn't start until 9:20 so we found ourselves entertaining the children yet again. Finally, the fireworks started and they didn't disappoint. Tink didn't make her usual flight, but a witch decked out in green lights took her place, and the fireworks surrounding the MK were - as always - a sight to behold. Finally, we went back to doing attractions. The longest line of the evening was about 20 minutes at the Speedway, but otherwise the lines ranged from nonexistent to minimal. We accomplished six things in 90 minutes. We'd knocked out a few attractions prior to the parade as well, and out little darlings were beginning to get pooped. So, while there was still a good hour of party time to go, we headed for the exit. Apparently, other people had the same idea because there was a mass exodus heading down Main Street. It must have been WONDERFUL doing attractions that last hour, because almost everyone was gone by then! In short, I think this is a really fun thing to do if you're at WDW in October on one of the designated nights. If you've been to the Magic Kingdom numerous times then you can probably make this your one and only MK visit, and since the ticket costs just $32 for adults and $26 for kids (plus tax) if purchased in advance, it's a bargain compared to using a park hopper day to get in. If you've never been to the MK before or your children are small and will have a hard time with the 7 PM-midnight timing of the party, then you might still want to go because it's fun to see the characters in Halloween costumes, but you'll probably still need to go back for a half day or so at some point in your trip to finish up anything you didn't get to."
"Gay Days, which is expected to bring about 140,000 people to the Orlando area in early June, is advertised as "creating a gay and lesbian atmosphere" throughout the region by organizing "theme park visits, over-the-top dance parties, and round-the-clock good times." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/06/04)
Lisa writes: "we spent the extra money to get in for Mickey's Christmas at Magic Kingdom and we all agreed it was well worth the $38.00. Parade was awesome and the fireworks were great. The Christmas concert at Epcot was truly amazing. The night we were there, Rita Moreno was the reader for The story of Jesus. It was a show I will never forget..."
Rob complained that he "stayed at movies resort [in November], very noisy even at 3 in the morning." A subscriber writes: " In regards to Bob's email.....the reason it was so noisy with kids at the All Stars Resort was because the POP WARNER teams and cheerleaders were there for competitions.....we too stayed at the All Stars and next time will call to see if there are cheerleaders or ball teams staying there too....A call to the front desk did result in them sending someone out to check the noise level and break up the group."
Beth, our travel agent, writes: "And speaking of Mickey's Party... This was the sixth year that I've attended. The complimentary cookies aren't as good as they were when I started going, but the hot chocolate to wash them down with is as good as ever. It no longer snows on Main Street all night long, but it flurries frequently enough to keep everyone happy. The giant Christmas Tree is as lovely as ever, and the shows and two parades are equally good. I applaud Disney for finally wising up and providing more dining opportunities this year than before. (It used to be mighty hard to get a bite to eat!) For those that aren't familiar with the event, Disney selects about a dozen evenings every December (usually Thursday, Friday and Sunday) for this extra-special celebration. They shut down the Magic Kingdom at 6:00, then reopen at 7:00 just for those with special party tickets (sold in advance, or at the gate if still available). There are a limited number of tickets sold, so the lines tend to be significantly shorter than what you encounter during the day. Not all attractions are open, but the majority are. Cookies and hot chocolate are complimentary (and as we found out this year, so are stroller rentals!), and every guest can have a complimentary holiday photo taken as well. It's mailed to you - or anyone else you designate - several weeks later. There are two special Christmas parades, several shows, and a fireworks display that has to be seen to be believed. The Main Street snow flurries with the huge Christmas tree at one end and Cindy's Castle at the other - and all those incredible holiday decorations in between - add a really magical touch. We also attended the Candlelight Processional in Epcot. It was significantly colder that evening than it was for Mickey's Party, so we had the long-Johns and mittens on, but it was still great. (Yes, it does get that cold in Florida!) The Candlelight Processional occurs several times nightly starting right after Thanksgiving. Students from high schools all over the country process to the American Gardens Amphitheatre wearing golden choir robes and holding tall candles to light their way. They join a "tree" of Disney castmembers in green robes already on stage in tree formation. A fabulous 50-piece orchestra and six of Disney's best vocalists are gathered in front, and the most incredible sign language interpreter I've ever seen (she truly sings with her hands) returns each year. About a dozen of the most beloved carols and holiday music are performed to perfection, and in between a celebrity guest narrator tells the Christmas story. We saw Rita Moreno this year, but other narrators include Robby Benson, Edward James Olmos, David Ogden Stiers, and Gary Sinise, to name a few. The Processional may be seen by anyone that cares to wait in line for a long time or stand in the back, but if you want a guaranteed seat you need to purchase the dinner package. There are three tiers of Epcot restaurants participating, the least expensive of which are the ones offering buffet-style meals. We once again opted for Chefs de France, a top tier location. We paid about $45 per adult, but that includes an appetizer, soup or salad; an entree; dessert; a non-alcoholic beverage; tax and gratuity. I quickly added up my choices, and I'd have spent about $52 if I'd done it without the package so the guaranteed show seating is really just a nice bonus to what would otherwise be a bargain meal. The theatre holds about 2000 people, and we were told that there were just under 1000 packages sold for the 8:15 performance we saw Saturday night, so the first 1000 or so that stood in the general admission line got in (after the rest of us were seated). You don't know what the availability will be, though, so if you have your heart set on it and don't want to pay for it then be prepared to stand in a very long line for a very long time! Also, note that every person needs a regular admission to Epcot to enter the park in the first place, that if you wait until the narrators are announced before you book your room you'll probably miss out on the best deals, and that dinner packages for kids are available for around $10 + tax. It's a great way to get in the holiday mood, whether you happen to be Christian or not!"
Greg and Kelli write: "We just returned from our 3rd trip to Disney World. This newsletter has provided us with so many tips and useful information. I thought I should pass on a few ideas. We attended the SOLD OUT Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. It was wonderful. I do think we could have gotten in a little early, but we did not know that. We just heard some people talking about it. So be sure to ask - I am sure it will be the same for the 'Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.' This trip we let our children begin pin trading. They loved the concept and were very excited to get new pins and trade with cast members. However, they were very disappointed that they didn't get the Halloween Party pin. We decided to wait until we were ready to leave to get the pins and little did we know that was a big mistake. They were all sold out - at least to the general ticket holder. If you had an Annual Pass, then they still had a stash to sell. We learned a big lesson - GET YOUR PINS FIRST. We had 4 girls dressed as Minnie Mouse and 1 boy dressed as Mickey -- they were all adorned with glow sticks that we bought from an online auction and carried from home. The characters loved them and really paid special attention to them. The Halloween Party is a MUST I am trying to figure out how to get back to WDW for the Christmas Party. Can't wait for our next trip!"
Melinda writes: "We just got back from Disney we had a wonderful time. we wanted to tell you that if you have not seen it Wishes is wonderful it made me cry. We also attended the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. it was great. we had a wonderful time. our only complaint was that we could have gotten in at 4.00pm instead of 7:00pm. we did not ask so that was partially our fault, but it would have been nice to know that we could have gotten in. so I wanted to tell everyone to ask so that they know if they can get in early. No matter what it was worth every penny. We all dressed up. We ate with Cinderella that morning and met the fairy godmother as well and told her that my daughter was going to be Cinderella and I was going to be the Fairy Godmother. The fairy godmother wanted to make sure we came to see her that night because she wanted to see me as her. it was great because she remembered us and thought I was beautiful. I just wanted to tell you how are trip was - it was great. This was our first time at a All Star and it was great as well. a big change from the Polynesian but it was still the Disney spirit."
Donald writes: "We recently returned from our second year of attending the Night of Joy at the Magic Kingdom; it might be something people haven't considered before. It is held the weekend after Labor Day (so there are often hotel specials available) and the MK has at least four stages set up for popular Contemporary Christian music acts to perform. The event runs from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. A single night ticket is $32.50. As always at MK, arrive early. This is usually a sold-out event, so arriving at 7:00 or before is advised - you can mill around Main St. USA until the ropes drop. If you like riding the feature rides at MK, this is a great opportunity to hit a lot of them without lines, especially at the start. The reason is that the multiple music concerts begin right at 7:30 also and lots of people head straight to them. My son and I were able to walk on to Buzz Light year twice, Peter Pan's Flight, the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean all in less than an hour with very little or no lines. The musicians usually play two sets each during the evening, so I started going to those after we had our fill of walking on to rides which normally had 20-60 minutes waits during the day. As the evening wears on, a few rides get lines (most notably Space Mountain), but most rides have shorter-than-normal lines for the entire evening (a lot of the folks there are really into the music and will hop from stage to stage most of the night without riding rides). Even though it is only a 5-hour event each night, we view it as win-win: we get to see uplifting concerts (they're 45-minute sets) from top names in Christian music (some new, some old), and ride as many "big" rides as we're often able to do only in a full day at MK. Even if the music isn't a big attraction to you, you could hit rides to your heart's content for 4-5 hours. There are some drawbacks:
* No Fast Passes (but there's usually no need) In all, though, it's a different and interesting way to experience the MK."
A subscriber writes about Gay week which runs the first week in June at WDW: "We ALWAYS book our trip for this week (annually) because the lines in the MK are shorter than normal this time of year. My kids are 8 and 5 and really don't notice it...there's always so much Disney fanfare to catch their attention. As for my husband and I, we have seen some interesting things that are more humorous than anything.....but we love the short lines! Thanks for a great newsletter!"
Gay Week at Walt Disney World Beth writes: "I have no problem with those who prefer to pair up with partners of the same sex... I have every intention of teaching my daughter not to judge people because of their sexual preference, but she's only five now and I really don't want to start teaching her the principles of tolerance and understanding in the middle of the Magic Kingdom while we're on vacation. Anyone that can relate to that and plans to be at WDW June 3-9 might want to take a quick look at the schedule below because those are designated "Gay Days" for 2003. I don't know who designates them, but that's the way it is. Sure, there are gay people in the parks all the time and no one cares or even gives it another thought because it's a non-issue. But during Gay Days many people that would never, ever walk around the parks groping their partner in public displays of affection seem overcome by the knowledge that on these four days they are much less a minority than usual. Not everyone, mind you. Not even most. But many more people than usual, and if you are in the "park of the day" then you will most assuredly see what I mean. If you're looking forward to the event, then good for you. Go and have a wonderful time. If you're of the other ilk and you're thinking of NOT going because of the event, don't deny yourself the pleasure of the parks. Just avoid the places on the schedule at those times, relax, and have fun. They are very big parks, and there's plenty of room for everyone. Whatever your thoughts may be on the subject, set them aside for a few days and concentrate on the things that are really important in life. A spin or two through "It's a Small World" ought to do the trick." For Gay Days schedule of events, click here.
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