Before we get to what will and won’t be happening in the parks this holiday season I want to talk about just getting into the parks. As of now, Disney isn’t renewing annual passes. Our passes currently expire 11/27/20, thanks to the month that Disney extended us due to the closure. We have a timeshare booked December 4-7th. We are gifted timeshare points every year by my in-laws so we get to stay for free.

If we aren’t able to renew our passes, we won’t be visiting the parks. If we are allowed to renew our passes, we have to hope and pray that we are able to get Park Passes that close in to our travel dates, which is highly unlikely. Passholders can only hold 3 Park Passes at a time, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios is very difficult to get, especially on the weekends. This trip has us rather stressed out!

Walt Disney World Holiday Cancellations

The 2020 Candlelight Processional at Epcot has been cancelled. This has been a staple of our Christmas tradition for over 20 years. We usually attend the Candlelight Processional 2-3 times during the month of December. I own the CD and I will listen to it often, but it isn’t the same.

The 2020 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party has also been cancelled. While we don’t attend the party every year, it is a lot of fun, and it will be missed.

While we had hoped the Candlelight Processional and Christmas Party weren’t going to be cancelled, I don’t think anyone thought the Castle Dream Lights would be cancelled as well!

What to Expect while Celebrating the Holidays at Walt Disney World in 2020

A reimagined holiday celebration will begin Nov. 6, 2020, at Walt Disney World Resort, with the four theme parks, Disney Springs and Disney resort hotels decked for the season. Through Dec. 30, guests will discover seasonal food and drinks at The Most Magical Place on Earth, as well as special merchandise and enchanting new entertainment experiences.

When night falls at Magic Kingdom Park, projection effects will transform Cinderella Castle with a kaleidoscope of designs, including a whimsical Christmas sweater and a regal overlay of red, green and gold ornamentation. The iconic castle will provide the perfect colorful background for guests seeking a magical holiday portrait.

Highlights from the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays will begin Nov. 27. Holiday kitchens will return around the World Showcase promenade, offering favorite dishes such as Slow-roasted Turkey with Stuffing at the American Holiday Table.

• At Magic Kingdom, characters synonymous with the season – including gingerbread men and elves – will join Disney characters in cavalcades through the park. On Main Street, U.S.A., toy soldiers will march with the Main Street Philharmonic as they bring musical cheer for all to hear.
• Favorite Disney characters dressed in their holiday finest will appear in festive flotillas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, holiday promenades at EPCOT and merry motorcades at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
• At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Minnie Mouse will host a yuletide dining experience at Hollywood & Vine, inviting some of her best pals – including Santa Goofy – to join the fun.
• Inside World ShowPlace at EPCOT, JOYFUL! will take guests on a musical journey of holiday music, while Voices of Liberty will use their eight-part harmonies to share songs of the season at the America Gardens Theatre.
• Elaborately decorated Christmas trees will spring up throughout Disney Springs, and a magical snowfall will occur within Town Center, West Side and The Landing. In addition, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will transform into Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar with delightful décor and a limited-time menu of festive favorites.
• Disney resort hotels will deck their halls for the holidays, including iconic Christmas trees in lobbies and other festive flourishes.
• Santa Claus will wave to guests as he makes pop-up appearances at each park, as well as Disney Springs. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, for example, he will sail down Discovery River on a special flotilla.

Book Now for Holiday Travel

Even though the Christmas celebrations at Walt Disney World will look different this year, we will still be there, one way or another. I hope you will be there too. We need all the holiday cheer we can get this year and no place does that better than Walt Disney World! If you are ready to plan your magical holiday vacation, I am here to help you every step of the way.

Just Email me and we will get started. I am a certified Disney vacation planner with Destinations 2 Travel, LLC a Disney Earmarked travel agency. I love helping families plan their Disney vacations.

The post Celebrating the Holidays at Walt Disney World in 2020 appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Before I get to that information though I wanted to update you on my plans to visit Walt Disney World. I tried to get in on the Passholder Preview for later this week, before the official reopening, but after 20 minutes in the virtual waiting room, we were told all the Park Passes for the event had been distributed

I was able to snag a Park Pass for me to make a solo day trip to the Magic Kingdom next week on Thursday, July 16th. Make sure you are following me on Instagram, Facebook, and my Travel Facebook to follow along.

I also got Disney’s Hollywood Studios for August 14th for Ron and I as well as August 15th at the Magic Kingdom. Jordan and Savannah also got Park Passes for the 15th so we will have a fun family day! Hopefully, after my July 16th visit I can get a Park Pass for Epcot so I can check out A Taste of the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival. Passholders can only have 3 Park Pass reservations at a time, so planning is more difficult than ever!

Magic Kingdom Attractions

Most of your favorite Magic Kingdom attractions will be open when the park reopens. We know there will be no parades, fireworks, or character meet and greets but Disney is working on other ways for us to see our favorite characters, in a socially distanced manner.

Adventureland Attractions

• Jungle Cruise
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Swiss Family Treehouse
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Frontierland Attractions

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Country Bear Jamboree
• Splash Mountain
• Tom Sawyer Island

Liberty Square Attractions

• Liberty Square Riverboat
• The Hall of Presidents
• The Haunted Mansion

Fantasyland Attractions

• It’s a Small World
• Mad Tea Party
• Mickey’s Philharmagic
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Prince Charming Regal Carousel
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Under the Sea-Journey of the Little Mermaid

Storybook Circus

• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• The Barnstormer

Tommorowland Attractions

• Astro Orbiter
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
• Space Mountain
• Tomorrowland Speedway
• Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover
• Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress

Epcot Attractions

Future World Attractions

• Awesome Planet
• Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival
• Journey into Imagination with Figment
• Living with the Land
• Mission: SPACE
• Soarin’ Around the World
• Spaceship Earth
• Test Track
• The Seas with Nemo and Friends
• Walt Disney Imagineering Presents The EPCOT Experience

World Showcase Attractions

• Canada Far and Wide
• Friendship Lagoon Boats
• Frozen Ever After
• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros
• Impressions de France
• Kidcot-modified experiences
• Reflections of China
• The American Adventure

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Attractions

• Alien Swirling Saucers
• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run
• Muppet*Vision 3D
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
• Slinky Dog Dash
• Star Tours-The Adventure Continues
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
• Toy Story Mania!
• Walt Disney Presents

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Attractions

Discovery Island

• Discovery Island Trails
• It’s Tough to be a Bug
• Wilderness Explorers

Pandora

• Avatar Flight of Passage
• Na’avi River Journey

Africa

• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail aka Pangani Forest Exploration Trail
• Kilimanjaro Safari

Rafiki’s Planet Watch

• Affection Section
• The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
• Wildlife Express

Asia

• Expedition Everest
• Kali River Rapids
• Maharajah Jungle Trek

Dinoland, USA

• DINOSAUR
• TriceraTop Spin

Of course, I am always here to help you plan your most magical Walt Disney World vacation! I’m sure, even with some Disney World attractions closed, we can plan a fun time for your family. just Email me and we will start planning.

The post Which Walt Disney World Attractions Will Be Available Upon Reopening? appeared first on The Mom Maven.

10. Coronado Springs Resort

In summer 2019, Walt Disney World Resort will unveil a completely reimagined Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, featuring hundreds of new guestrooms and a plethora of new amenities. Walt Disney Imagineering is reinvigorating the resort with fresh storytelling and functional enhancements that will make a dramatic impact on the experience for guests.

The biggest addition to the property will be a 15-story tower offering a two-level entrance lobby, 545 guest rooms (including 50 suites), a themed and unique rooftop table-service restaurant, two presidential suites and more.

A second new restaurant will be located on an island in the middle of the resort’s 14-acre lake, Lago Dorado. New walkways will stretch across the lake, allowing quick and convenient passage to and from all areas of the resort.

9. Hakuna Matata Time

It’s been 25 years since Simba, Timon, Rafiki and all the other treasured characters from Walt Disney Pictures’ “The Lion King” first roared into our hearts. In 2019, guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be able to celebrate the classic animated film more than ever.

Each day from Jan. 18 to Sept. 30, guests will feel the love during the “Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party,” a raucous celebration where young adventurers will let their inner animals roam free on the dance floor. Timon and Rafiki will engage everyone in entertaining dances and games inspired by “The Lion King,” as wildly talented musicians provide the perfect soundtrack in a World Beat style.

Also from Jan. 18 to Sept. 30, guests will imagine themselves in scenes from the film via new three-dimensional photo opportunities at the park. These backdrops will allow guests to re-create iconic “Lion King” moments ideal for sharing on social media platforms.

8. Walt Disney World Skyliner Gondolas

The Skyliner Gondolas will begin transporting guests around Walt Disney World in the fall of 2019! Once operating, the gondola system will connect Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot to four resort hotels- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort as well as the proposed 15th Disney Vacation Club property, Disney’s Riviera Resort.

7. Disney on Broadway Concerts

The Disney on Broadway Concert Series, held during the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, expands to seven days a week during the 2019 festival, providing more opportunities than ever before to hear pairs of Disney on Broadway stars sing favorite tunes from award-winning productions. The lineup will rotate regularly, featuring music from “The Lion King,” “Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast” and other hit shows. The festival runs January 18-February 25, 2019.

6. Epcot Forever Fireworks

IllumiNations is finally going away, yay! An all-new, transformative spectacular is set to debut in 2020. It will celebrate how Disney music can inspire people from around the world, featuring massive floating set pieces, custom-built LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics and lasers.

Before that new show debuts, there will be a limited-time experience Epcot fans will love, called Epcot Forever, a true celebration of this timeless park. Debuting in fall 2019 and set to classic Epcot tunes, the show begins with a spark of imagination that quickly grows into an epic spectacle of fireworks, music, lighting, lasers, and choreographed, special effects kites.

5. Garden Rocks Concerts

Welcome spring’s arrival with the 2019 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, returning March 6-June 3. This year’s event will feature delectable bites at outdoor kitchens, as well as dozens of world-renowned, Disney-themed topiaries. For more fun than ever, the Garden Rocks Concert Series expands to seven days a week in 2019, offering a mixture of new artists and returning favorites. With three concerts per day for all 90 days of the festival, Garden Rocks will deliver an amazing 270 concerts next year at the America Gardens Theatre.

4. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Imagineers have been hard at work creating Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, using breakthrough technology to transform a two-dimensional cartoon into an amazing real-world experience. The first-ever ride-through attraction themed to Mickey Mouse – set to open in fall 2019 – will feature a new original story and lovable theme song as it takes guests on a journey inside the wacky and unpredictable world of Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts.

3. Lots of Fun with Pixar Pals

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is transforming into a place where guests experience their own adventures in the immersive worlds of their cinematic imaginations. This reimagining of the park came to life in 2018 with the debut of Toy Story Land, an 11-acre immersive land dedicated to Pixar Animation Studios’ Toy Story films. As Disney’s Hollywood Studios prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary May 1, now, more than ever, Pixar pals in the park will ensure 2019 is a blockbuster year.

Beginning Jan. 18, Pixar Place will transform into a Municiberg city block from Pixar’s Incredibles films. Guests will meet super suit designer Edna Mode and see some of her greatest creations. They will look for clues to the whereabouts of the youngest Incredible, the mischievous and multi-powered Jack-Jack. And at the end of the block, guests will celebrate the heroic deeds of Mr. Incredible, Mrs. Incredible and Frozone, who will make appearances throughout the day during a party featuring lively music, dancing, interactive games and lots more Super fun.

Also starting Jan. 18, two popular guest favorites return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios when a door to the monster world opens inside Walt Disney Presents, welcoming Mike and Sulley from Pixar’s Monsters, Inc.

And then in spring 2019, Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy will speed into Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This new show experience will welcome guests to the world of Pixar’s Cars films, bringing them face to face with racing legend Lightning McQueen. As the next generation of rookie racers, guests will learn from Lightning’s years of experience on the track. This will be the untold story of Lightning McQueen … as told by Lightning McQueen!

2. Mickey and Minnie’s Surprise Celebration

The fun begins Jan. 18 when Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration kicks off at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, honoring those true originals, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, with new entertainment, merchandise and specialty food and beverage. A highlight of the celebration will be the new “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party.” Several times daily, this colorful procession will parade up Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle, where guests will be invited to join in the energetic dance party. Singing hosts will keep things hopping with modern remixes of favorite “Mickey Mouse Club” melodies and more. Joining Mickey and Minnie in all the fun will be a bevy of beloved Disney characters, including Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Max, Chip ’n Dale and others.

1. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Since Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was announced at D23 Expo 2015, fans have been eager to learn more. Now we know that beginning in the fall of 2019, guests can take the controls in one of three unique and critical roles aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. On Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, guests can join an epic battle between the First Order and the Resistance – including a face-off with Kylo Ren. These two new incredible experiences, paired with the land’s interactive components and optional integration with the Play Disney Parks app, will invite guests to become galactic travelers and live their own Star Wars stories in a galaxy far, far away.

Wow! 2019 is going to be an amazing year at Walt Disney World, I hope to see you there!

The post Top 10 Reasons to Plan a Walt Disney World Vacation for 2019 appeared first on The Mom Maven.

The Caravan Theater didn’t undergo any noticeable changes or upgrades during the almost 4 month closure. There is now a Fastpass line for UP! A Great Bird Adventure. We took advantage of using a Fastpass for this show. Normally I wouldn’t do that but since it is new and I hoped that a Fastpass would allow us to sit closer to the front, which it did.

Russell meets an African Crowned Crane

UP! A Great Bird Adventure is hosted by Annika who is joined by bird handlers and of course, Russell and Dug from the movie UP!. Here is a brief overview of the show.

Mom Maven’s Thoughts on UP! A Great Bird Adventure

We, Jordan and I, enjoyed UP! A Great Bird Adventure, but it won’t make it onto our ‘must-do” every visit list. It was a cute 25 minute show but we felt Flights of Wonder was more entertaining than this new show. I understand that adding familiar characters will entice more families into the Caravan Theater and that is a good thing, but for me, it isn’t a big enough draw.

We will see the show on a future visit because Ron is a huge UP! fan and he wasn’t with us on this particular day but we won’t be visiting often. If you’d like to watch the show our friends at Inside the Magic have a full show video for you to enjoy.

If you would like to see the show in person, I am happy to help you plan your next Walt Disney World vacation. My services are FREE to you. Just Email Me and we will get started.

The post UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Pandora The World of Avatar

Pandora the World of Avatar is like no other land at Walt Disney World. As you enter you are transported to the world of the Na’vi people who, in partnership with Alpha Centauri Expeditions, welcome you. You enter into the beautiful Valley of Mo’ara. You are surrounded by beautiful, otherworldly plants, native craftsmanship and the awe-inspiring floating mountains. Everywhere you look there is something more beautiful. My mouth was agape as I took in the beauty of Pandora. I have heard and seen pictures of how beautiful Pandora is at night and I cannot wait to see it glowing some evening this fall.

Na’vi River Journey

We wandered through the queue of the Na’vi River Journey ride. This beautiful, peaceful family boat ride takes you through a Pandoran rainforest that glows with a mesmerizing bioluminescence. On your journey you will encounter exotic creatures and plants that bring this alluring world to life. The exquisite Shaman of Songs will keep you guessing if it is and animatronic or a human, it is that amazing.

Avatar Flight of Passage

The thrill ride in Pandora the World of Avatar is Avatar Flight of Passage aka the “banshee ride”. Anyone who has watched the movie has thought about what it would be like to climb on the back of a mountain banshee and fly through Pandora. Thanks to Disney, you can, and it is amazing!

You may have seen that during the Passholder preview many people were having trouble because they don’t fit on the ride. This isn’t just a weight issue but a height issue and a where you carry your weight issue as well. I was afraid I wouldn’t fit. I tried the demo seat before I got in the queue line. The cast member couldn’t get the seat to lock in, but said I was very close and it really depended on how I sat. He said I was close enough he would suggest I get in line and try. For me, that was fine because there was no wait to ride during this media preview. IF there was a 3-5 hour wait, as there was on May 27, opening day, I wouldn’t want to wait and not be sure I could ride.

The queue for Avatar Flight of Passage is looong and very detailed, especially when you get inside the building. I could have stayed in the lab area of the queue for hours looking at everything. Finally, you arrive and are put in groups of 16 riders. You are matched with an Avatar and you will be riding that Avatar’s banshee. When you enter the simulator room the seats are in 2 sections of 8 with a partial wall dividing them. Our party of 3 “Pooh-sized” riders straddled our seats and waited for the cast member to check the latches. My other 2 friends had ridden previously and told the cast member to “just push, it will click”. She pushed and they both locked in. My friend said, “You didn’t push Cindy’s” and the cast member said “she clicked in without pushing”. I FIT!!!!

The ride starts and you feel your Avatar link to the banshee then you are flying through Pandora, through arches, diving under mountains, and over rivers-I really don’t have words to describe the feelings this ride evokes. It is the closest you will feel to flying on your own. While you are riding you can feel your banshee breathing, its muscles moving as you soar and dive through the breathtaking Pandoran scenery. It is an overwhelming sensory experience.

Avatar Flight of Passage is an intense ride, not for the weak of stomach or those who don’t tolerate simulators well. Unfortunately, my husband will never be able to ride this amazing ride.

Elsewhere in Pandora the World of Avatar

Pandora also has a gift shop, Windtraders, conveniently located at the exit of Avatar Flight of Passage. Pongu Pongu is the lounge offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage to thirsty travelers. Satu’li Canteen is the quick service restaurant in Pandora serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This restaurant offers mobile ordering via the My Disney Experience app. When you order it gives you a window of time in which you can pick up your order. Currently it is only accepting credit cards for mobile ordering but Disney Dining Plan credits should be available to use with mobile ordering soon.

Cheeseburger Steamed Pods-Bao Buns fromSatu’li Canteen.

Plan your Visit to Pandora

If you are thinking of planning your own trip to Pandora, I am here to help. As a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, and Earmarked Disney Agency, my services and knowledge are FREE to my customers. It only takes a $200 deposit to start planning your magical Walt Disney World vacation. Please Email Me so we can get started.

The post Pandora The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom appeared first on The Mom Maven.

photos courtesy of Disney

Rivers of Light-Disney’s Animal Kingdom

We have waited an extra year for the public debut of Rivers of Light. Recently attendees of Disney’s Social Media Moms Conference were able to watch a preview of this long-awaited nighttime spectacular. Rivers of Light, an all-new nighttime show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will begin delighting Walt Disney World Resort guests February 17, 2017. Rich in symbolism and storytelling, the elaborate theatrical production takes guests on a breathtaking emotional journey – a visual mix of water, fire, nature and light all choreographed to an original musical score.

photo courtesy of Disney

The new 15-minute show is the latest addition to the lineup of nighttime experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Celebrating the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world, the performance combines live performers, beautiful floating lanterns, glistening fountains, special effects and authentic animal imagery projected on giant water screens.

Happily Ever After Fireworks and Projection Spectacular-Disney’s Magic Kingdom

“Now it’s time to say goodbye…” to Wishes. I love Wishes, but it is time for something new. We have had 13 years of amazing Wishes fireworks and that amazing soundtrack but all good things must come to an end.

It’s no secret that every ‘once upon a time’ story ends with ‘happily ever after.’ Beginning May 12, 2017, Walt Disney World Resort guests will discover just how magical and emotional that fairy tale ending can be with the newest, most breathtaking fireworks show in the history of Magic Kingdom Park – “Happily Ever After.”

In addition to fireworks, the stunning new nighttime extravaganza will feature more lasers, lights and projections than any Disney show before it. “Happily Ever After” is also an entirely new kind of Disney storytelling, one that will take guests on an inspiring journey filled with heart, humor and emotion. Guests become part of the journey themselves as they follow favorite Disney characters on an adventure to seek out their destiny, face adversity and ultimately fulfill their dreams on the road to their happily ever after.

Pandora-The World of Avatar-Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The magical new land of Pandora, which will open May 27, 2017, will transport guests to a mystical world of bioluminescent rainforests, floating mountains and soaring Banshees. Two main adventures will beckon Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests:

Riding a magnificent Mountain Banshee, guests will soar across Pandora on Avatar Flight of Passage. This high-tech adventure will offer a thrilling flight through the jungles and floating mountains, and over the majestic oceans of this colorful world. On the family-friendly Na’vi River Journey guests will sail down a sacred river hidden within a glowing rainforest. The expedition will end in an unforgettable encounter with a Na’vi Shaman, a figure who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora.

photo courtesy of Disney

Guests will also be able to dine at Satu’li Canteen, grab a drink at Pongu Pongu or shop for Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits, and more at Windtraders.

Plan your 2017 Walt Disney World Vacation Now

WOW! It is going to be an amazing 2017 at Walt Disney World! I am here and ready to help you find the best, most magical travel package for your family. Just Email Me and we will start planning.

Current Offers-Limited Availability

• Summer Meal Offer-Free Quick Service Dining Plan with a 5 night stay. Book by 2/12/17. Travel between 5/30-8/28/17.
• Fun & Sun-Up to 25% off room with 4 day ticket. Book by 2/26/17. Travel between  2/20-6/10/17. OR Book by 3/30/17 and travel 4/9-6/10/17.
• Kindermoon-3 nights All-Star Resort, 2 day base ticket, 2 bonus Fastpasses. Book by 2/26/17. Travel between 2/20-6/10/17. OR Book by 3/30/17 and travel 4/9-6/10/17.
• Family Fun & Sun-4 night All-Star Resort, 5 day ticket. Book by 2/26/17. Travel between 2/20-6/10/17. OR Book by 3/30/17 and travel 4/9-6/10/17.
• Destinations to Travel FREE Disney Day-4 Night stay, 4 Day ticket get 5th day ticket FREE. Book by 4/1/17 travel between 6/1-8/31/17. Add Disney Dining plan and get free gifts for kids ages 2-9! (Not Valid for Florida Residents)

The post Look What’s Coming to Walt Disney World in 2017 appeared first on The Mom Maven.

We checked in at the kiosk and then were sent to wait for our buzzer to go off. We didn’t wait long at all before we were escorted into the restaurant and given a tour of the buffet stations. We were then shown to our table which was in the back of the restaurant over on the side. We were informed by our waitress that we were in the VIP area where celebrities, including Leonardo DiCarprio, dine when they are in the restaurant. She explained to us that when we saw characters in the large room next to us we should stay put because they would be in our small room next.

We are pretty basic, picky eaters so the menu at Tusker House was a little scary for us. We both ventured out of our comfort zone and tried some foods that were new to us. Most were very delicious, except the watermelon and Feta salad which just tasted like red onions  I finally tried Curry Chicken. I also enjoyed the Spit Roasted Beef, Mojo Pork and Oven Roasted Red Skin potatoes. I tried other item that I can no longer remember the names of. There is also a kids buffet with mac ‘n cheese and other kid favorites.

The character interaction at Tusker House was very good. The characters each took their time with each table taking lots of pictures and signing autographs as they went. We spent time with Mickey, Donald, Daisy and Goofy during our meal.

Prices at Tusker House vary by meal and season. Adult breakfast ranges from $15-29.99. Adult lunch and dinner range from $30-59.99. A meal at Tusker Houseis worth 1 Disney Dining Plan credit and it is also available on Tables in Wonderland.

We enjoyed our dinner and would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a unique menu and character dining experience. When you book you Walt Disney World vacation with me, I take care of all the details, including dining reservations! Email Me to start planning your trip!

The post Enjoy Character Dining at Tusker House appeared first on The Mom Maven.

An incredible lineup of new attractions and experiences open to guests starting this Memorial Day Weekend and kickoff summer vacation season with new magic across all four Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney Springs and beyond.

What’s New at Walt Disney World

The fun heats up starting May 27 when new nighttime experiences awaken at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with stunning animation on the Tree of Life, new after dark adventures on favorite attractions such as Kilimanjaro Safaris, Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids and more, as well as festive new nighttime entertainment across the park.

A day later on May 28, Disney’s hit live-action film The Jungle Book provides inspiration for a new nighttime show, The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic, that comes to life on Discovery River.

And starting June 17, guests can experience the enhanced Soarin’ Around the World attraction at Epcot; the star-studded new stage show “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” at Magic Kingdom Park; and the new “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Starting June 21, the all-new Frozen Ever After attraction and Royal Sommerhus, where Anna and Elsa will greet guests in authentically Norwegian-inspired settings, opens to guests at Epcot.

More Magic, More Memories, More Fun

Across its four theme parks, multiple resort hotels and diverse shopping and dining offerings, guests will find unforgettable experiences to share with family and friends at Walt Disney World Resort, making every moment as magical as it can be.

photo courtesy of Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

For the first time in its 18-year history, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will debut new day-into-nighttime experiences that celebrate the magic of nature, starting May 27.

The park’s iconic Tree of Life will awaken each night amid a lively celebration of Discovery Island music and dance. Through stunning visuals, animal spirits appear and enchanted fireflies reveal stories of wonder as the tree morphs to showcase the magic of nature.
Kilimanjaro Safaris transitions to a new nighttime adventure in the extended orange glow of a setting sun. For the first time, hyenas and African wild dogs join the safari trail creature feature.

Discovery River becomes the stage for music and pageantry in a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film The Jungle Book. Premiering May 28, The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic is a live show filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.
Hungry adventurers can have lunch or dinner at the new Tiffins signature restaurant on Discovery Island beginning May27. Guests seated in the restaurant’s travel-themed dining rooms or on the waterfront patio can sip libations and savor dishes featuring African, Asian and South American flavors.

Across the park, guests can experience wondrous new nighttime experiences and entertainment celebrating marvels in nature and enjoy long-time favorites such as Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, Kali River Rapids and more – in a whole new light.

photo courtesy of Disney

Epcot

Anna, Elsa and other beloved characters from the blockbuster film, “Frozen,” will give the summer season a warm hug at Epcot beginning June 21. Meanwhile “Turtle Talk with Crush” makes fun waves and Soarin’ Around the World takes guests to new heights starting June 17.

Anna, Elsa and their “Frozen” friends will welcome guests aboard the new Frozen Ever After boat ride that sails into a “Frozen” world at the Norway Pavilion starting June 21. Passengers on their way to Arendelle’s Winter in Summer Celebration for Queen Elsa visit the ice palace and hear beloved film tunes plus new lyrics by Oscar-winning “Let It Go” songwriters Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez. Also at the Norway Pavilion, Anna and Elsa will greet guests in the new Royal Sommerhus, modeled after a traditional Norwegian cabin.

In Future World, guests will celebrate the U.S. debut of the expanded Soarin’ Around the World attraction at The Land Pavilion on June 17. Now with a third Epcot theater, plus new digital screens and projection systems, the enhanced attraction takes guests on an exhilarating “flight” above spectacular global landscapes and man-made wonders.
Guests can now find new additions at “Turtle Talk with Crush” with characters from Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory”. When Crush the sea turtle swims up to the “Human Tank” at Epcot, he’ll be joined by Dory and some of her new friends that guests will get to know better when “Finding Dory” swims into theaters on June 17, 2016.

photo courtesy of Disney

Magic Kingdom

Classic Disney characters will join contemporary animated film stars beginning June 17 in a new extravaganza on the grand Cinderella Castle stage, and Magic Kingdom guests can experience a new dining adventure.

For the first time, Tiana of “Princess and the Frog,” and Rapunzel of “Tangled,” co-star with Anna and Elsa of “Frozen,” and a host of favorite Disney characters in the new Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire. Performed on the grandest stage in the kingdom, the star-studded tale of friendship presents Mickey Mouse and his troupe of Merry Makers – Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Goofy – who invite 10 new friends from different animated worlds to join the celebration. This “timeless fairytale” of a show combines grand dance, fireworks and stunts with memorable music, an original song and special effects.

Disney Parks will welcome Elena of Avalor, Disney’s first princess inspired by diverse Latin cultures. Elena of Avalor will appear at Walt Disney World Resort later this summer and at Disneyland Resort in the fall, following her television debut in a new animated series this summer on Disney Channel.
Next door to the legendary Jungle Cruise, guests can enjoy the bold flavors of “World Famous Jungle Cuisine” served by the wisecracking crew of the new Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen. It’s the first Disney full-service restaurant themed after a specific park attraction.

photo courtesy of Disney

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

In the galactic wake of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, new Star-Wars-themed experiences shift into light speed.

The next generation of Star Wars-themed fireworks shows, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” will premiere June 17 with new themed fireworks, lasers, special effects and video projections of iconic characters and scenes from the complete saga, all set to the unforgettable score of the film series.
The live stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away” debuted April 4, celebrating iconic moments from the Star Wars saga with live vignettes featuring popular characters such as BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Darth Maul. First Order Stormtroopers led by Captain Phasma march from Star Wars Launch Bay to the park’s Center Stage, adding menace to the entertainment. Star Wars Launch Bay showcases large-scale artifacts and encounters with characters including Kylo Ren. The re-imagined Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple experience also features new characters. And at Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests buckle up for an enhanced high-speed journey with new Star Wars: The Force Awakens characters and a visit to Jakku.

Also at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, two new character meet and greet areas opened up recently. Minnie Mouse greets guests inside a specially themed area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios called “Mickey and Minnie Starring in Red Carpet Dreams.” Minnie appears as a Tinsel Town starlet in a ritzy setting straight out of a colorful musical extravaganza. Here, guests can get Minnie’s autograph, snap their own photos with her, and a Disney PhotoPass photographer is on hand to capture all of the special moments. Olaf, the lovable snowman from “Frozen” greets guests inside a specially themed area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios called “Celebrity Spotlight.” Olaf appears in a beach scene living his dream “In Summer,” ready to give warm hugs to all his new friends.

photo courtesy of Disney

Disney Springs and Water Parks Make a Splash

Inspired by Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, Disney Springs is a charming district filled with unique retailers and restaurants from award-winning chefs. Throughout the summer, new stores and restaurants will open as Disney Springs more than doubles the number of retail, dining and other venues for guests.

As Disney Springs continues to expand and diversify its dining, shopping and entertainment, more exciting high-profile tenants are coming onboard, including Anthropologie, Under Armour, kate spade new york, Sephora and Lucky Brand, among others. Other new shops opening in 2016 include Zara, Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, UNIQLO and PANDORA. More than 30 new tenants will be coming to Disney Springs this summer, including retail shops and dining venues.
Home to world-class dining, Disney Springs is shaping up to be a culinary dream. With its chic style and Pan-Asian flavors, Morimoto Asia offers just a taste of what’s to come as more new eateries are gearing up to open in the coming year, including Tablas Frontera by Chef Rick Bayless; Homecoming – Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar by Chef Art Smith; STK Orlando, a modern steakhouse with the ambience of a sleek lounge; Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, a modern-day “pizza joint” with artisanal pies; and the reimagined, Planet Hollywood Observatory with new outdoor terrace and live entertainment. Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless and Chef Art Smith join master Chef Masaharu Morimoto in a growing collection of James Beard Award winning chefs at Disney Springs.
At Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba,” the new B-Boys hip-hop, breakdancing threesome showcases a rare mix of rhythm, strength and “how-did-they-do-that?” moves. As part of the show’s ongoing evolution, the masterful Aerial Bamboo act joins recent additions of madcap clowns and a breathtaking rolla bolla juggling act.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Water Parks ramp up with playful spirits and summer fun faster than Olaf can beg for warm hugs.

At Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, Olaf from Disney’s animated hit “Frozen,” will be living his “In Summer” dream as he and Kristoff host The “Frozen Games” of friendly, fun competitions that begin May 27 and run through Aug. 21.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park castaways can splash down on a sandy summer beach with a cold ale and savory snack after a wild slide on Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.
Disney guests will have a magical summer experience wherever they play, dine, relax or celebrate at Walt Disney World theme parks, entertainment venues and resort hotels. For more information about Walt Disney World Resort, Email Me!

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photo courtesy of Disney

Fastpass+ Upgrade

Starting April 10, 2016 you will notice the following enhancements to how you make FastPass+ selections:

• You will now be able to choose individual FastPass+ experiences and times, and will no longer need to make all selections for the same day at the same time.
• While you will continue to be able to select up to three experiences in advance, you now will be able to book fewer than three selections, if desired.
• In addition, when you have used your first three FastPass+ selections, you will now be able to make an additional FastPass+ selection via the My Disney Experience mobile app, in addition to in-park kiosks. Once you’ve used the fourth, you will be able to select another, and so on.

Why these Fastpass+ Enhancements were Needed

Personally I don’t understand why anyone would want to make fewer than 3 Fastpass+ choices at one time, but I guess some people do. If you are one of these people please leave me a comment and enlighten me as to why

The second enhancement makes perfect sense, it will save time! On last weekend’s trip to the Magic Kingdom I needed to change the time of a Fastpass, normally that is easy to do on the My Disney Experience app. The app kept freezing and couldn’t pull up any of the Fastpasses or my dining reservation. I re-started the app, re-started my phone and even signed out of the app and back in. My only option at this point was to get in the dreaded Fastpass kiosk line. Why do I say dreaded? This line is always long and slow moving. We watched numerous people finally get to the kiosk and have no idea which ride they wanted a Fastpass for. It was just like the people who stand in line at a counter service restaurant and when they finally get to the cashier they have no idea what they want to eat! Ugh!

Every time we have to get in a Fastpass kiosk line, we wait at least 30 minutes! Now that we can get our additional Fastpasses one at a time on the app, we just saved 30-90 minutes of park time! I can’t wait to try the enhanced system out when we visit Disney next month! Are you excited for these upgrades?

If you are thinking about planning a Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney’s Aulani, Disney Cruise Line or Adventures By Disney vacation please let me know. I’d be happy to help you plan and book your next magical vacation! Email me cindys@d2travel.

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photo courtesy of Disney

How Does Disney’s New Tiered Ticketing Seasons Work?

For years Disney has used Seasonal Pricing on their resort accommodations. The prices were based on seasons with rooms costing the least in Value season and the most in Holiday season. Now Disney is translating those seasons to their 1-day ticket prices as well. In Value season a 1-day ticket to the Magic Kingdom will cost $105, in Regular season it will cost $110 and in Peak season it will cost $124. Prices for the other 3 Walt Disney World Resort parks are slightly less at Value $97, Regular $102 and Peak $114.

In addition, although in the past 1-Day tickets for Walt Disney World Resort did not expire, 1-Day tickets sold on or after Sunday, Feb. 28 for Walt Disney World Resort will expire at the end of the next calendar year. For example, 1-day tickets sold in 2016 will expire on Dec. 31, 2017. The amount paid for an unused, expired ticket may be applied towards the purchase of a new ticket at the current price.

Each month is divided into value, regular and peak days with an 8-11 month calendar available for viewing online. Here’s an example, if you plan a visit for March, you’ll have a variety of options, including March 1-3 in the Value season, March 4-10 in the Regular season and March 11-31 in the Peak season. If you plan to visit during a peak period, like the spring break, you will pay more. Purchasing a 1-Day ticket in a non-peak period, or choosing multi-day ticket and annual passes, will provide additional flexibility and value.

How Does the New Disney Ticket Pricing Effect My Vacation?

Right now, it probably doesn’t. Currently, this price change only effects 1-day tickets not multi-day tickets. If you are coming to the parks for a 2+ day vacation, you will probably have a multi-day ticket and that isn’t included in this change. The 1-day Disney ticket has been the most expensive Disney ticket to buy for a few years now and it is one I never recommend to my travel clients.

Why is Disney Doing This?

In a nutshell, they are doing this to spread out visitation. Disney doesn’t want you to wait 2+ hours in line for an attraction. Unfortunately that is a regular occurrence during peak season. By offering a more expensive 1-day ticket during Peak season, Disney hopes to deter some of those guests into coming when the tickets are most expensive, theoretically helping to reduce crowds and shorten wait times. I am rather confident that in the future we will see tiered pricing on multi-day tickets as well and that is when I feel it will truly impact crowds.

I hope this helps clear up the muddy waters of Disney Parks new tiered 1-day ticket pricing structure. If you have any questions please leave me a comment or if you want to start planning your magical Disney vacation, fill out my travel quote request form.

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