Walt Disney World has announced Disney After Hours BOO BASH will be coming to the Magic Kingdom on select nights from August 10- October 31, 2021. This 3 hour hard ticketed event will include some of our old Halloween favorites and some new ones too!

While we are still pining away for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, BOO BASH will give us Halloween spooks and treats…without the amazing parade and fireworks. in a Covid careful way. Now that fireworks are coming back to the Magic Kingdom on July 1st, guests are petitioning Disney to add fireworks to Boo Bash but, as of now, Disney has not announced that this will be happening.

BOO BASH Happenings

• Special cavalcades full of characters popping up throughout the night including “Mickey’s Happy Halloween Cavalcade” featuring Mickey Mouse and friends dressed for the occasion. In the “Disney Villains Halloween Cavalcade,” villains will take to the street and celebrate their favorite time of the year. “Jack’s Nightmare Cavalcade” will feature Jack Skellington, Sally and Oogie Boogie riding down the parade path to “This Is Halloween.” Maleficent will also make an appearance in the form of a fire-breathing dragon.
• Favorite friends lurking about, from the lovely Miss Carlotta at the Haunted Mansion to Goofy and Chip ‘n’ Dale in their Halloween best, with other surprise guests spotted across the park. Guests can also stop and listen to the Cadaver Dans during performances on Main Street, U.S.A.
• Complimentary snacks such as ice cream novelties and popcorn, along with select beverages included in event admission.
• Halloween, decor, music, and lighting
• Treat stops with plenty of candy
• Halloween-themed food and beverages for sale
• Disney PhotoPass available to capture magical and spooky shots throughout the night.
• Less wait times at 20 attractions including Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Haunted Mansion attraction, Jungle Cruise, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Peter Pan’s Flight, Space Mountain and more.

Costumes

All guests attending BOO BASH may wear costumes! You must also wear and approved face covering that meets the current safety guidelines. Guests under the age of 14 may wear a costume mask as well, if they wish. You can see all of Disney’s costume guidelines here. My friendly reminder about costumes at Disney is that it is HOT in August, September, and early October. Wear comfortable, lightweight costumes and bring a change of clothing for the young kiddos. Overheated meltdowns aren’t fun for anyone, take these hints into consideration when choosing your family costumes.

Boo Bash Ticket and Pricing Info

Boo Bash Tickets range from $129-199 for the 3 hour event. The $199 October 31st date sold out quickly. As of this update (6-20-21) 7 other dates are sold out as well. Prices are the same for adults and kids for this 3 hour Disney After Hours event.

• 8/10/21 Sold Out
• 8/17/21 $129
• 8/20/21 $139
• 8/24/21 $129
• 8/27/21 $139
• 8/31/21 $129
• 9/5/21 $129
• 9/7/21 $129
• 9/10/21 $139
• 9/12/21 $129
• 9/14/21 $129
• 9/17/21 $139
• 9/19/21 $129
• 9/21/21 $139
• 9/24/21 Sold Out
• 10/5/21 Sold Out
• 10/8/21 Sold Out
• 10/10/21 $159
• 10/12/21 Sold Out
• 10/15/21 Sold Out
• 10/17/21 $159
• 10/19/21 Sold Out
• 10/22/21 $169
• 10/24/21 $169
• 10/29/21 Sold Out
• 10/31/21 Sold Out

Boo Bash event tickets will allow you in the park as early at 7pm and depending on the night, BOO BASH will take place from either 9pm-midnight or 9:30pm-12:30am.

All Disney After Hours events are open to a limited number of guests and offer low wait times to more than 20 attractions including The Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

The post BOO BASH Coming to the Magic Kingdom appeared first on The Mom Maven.

We were at EPCOT Saturday, December 5, 2020, Walt Disney’s birthday by the way. The park was busy, we later learned all 4 parks reached their 35% capacity Saturday. We had a great day hearing 3 of our favorite musical acts Joyful! in the World Showplace, the Jammitors as the Jammin’ Chefs at the Mill Stage in Canada, and The Voices of Liberty-The Voices of the Season in the American Gardens Theater.

We thought we’d try something new and try and complete Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition. I told you about this new fun add-on last month when I shared the overview of the Taste of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, and we decided to check it out. EPCOT has had a few of these scavenger hunts available during the different festivals, but we had never done one before.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure

The storyline for this scavenger hunt around World Showcase comes from the 22 minute film Olaf’s Frozen Adventure which was released in 2017. This holiday film finds Olaf, Anna, and Elsa searching for their own holiday traditions. Olaf goes door-to-door across Arendelle asking families how they celebrate “That Time of Year”.

Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition

To get started on Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition, you purchase your map and stickers for $7.99 at either Mouse Gear,  Port of Entry, World Traveler at International Gateway, and at the merchandise cart in Canada.

On the map there is a clue for each country in World Showcase, plus World Showplace, and the L’Chaim Holiday Kitchen. Once you locate Olaf in each location match the sticker with whatever Olaf has on his sled from that location. When you complete the hunt, bring your map to Disney Traders, Mouse Gear, or World Traveler at International Gateway where you will receive a completion sticker and a prize. I’m not going to share what the prize is because I want you to enjoy the surprise.

I hate spoilers but I will give you a few hints.

• Look high
• Look low
• He is not in attractions
• He is not in stores

Ron and I succeeded in completing the hunt! We enjoyed searching throughout each country as well as giving and receiving clues from cast members and other guests as we went about our quest.

Even as a couple with no kids this activity was enjoyable. Many families and others traveling without kids were on the hunt as well. I recommend giving it a try if you are visiting EPCOT between now and December 30, 2020.

The post Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Festival of the Holidays Food

Holiday Kitchens located throughout World Showcase will offer tasty treats of the season, such as Duck Confit and Dumplings at Festival Favorites, the Gingerbread Milkshake from the Holiday Hearth, slow-roasted turkey from the American Holiday Table, pork schnitzel at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen or the beef bourguignon from the Yukon Holiday Kitchen. YUM!

I’ve got my eyes set on some of the sweet treats that are to be found during the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. My list includes the Maple Bûche de Noël at Yukon Holiday Kitchen, the  Salted Caramel Spaceship Earth Cookie at Holiday Hearth, a Peppermint Sundae at Holiday Sweets & Treats and a Minnie Peppermint Cookie at Holiday Sweets & Treats.

Festival of the Holidays Activities

The Holiday Cookie Stroll returns this year, with a complimentary cookie as reward for completing the confectionary collection. The delicious array of sweet treats to choose from will include cookies from five different locations throughout the park.

The whole family will have fun with everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, as he invites kids of all ages on the new “Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition,” a festive adventure around World Showcase to round up holiday traditions Olaf misplaces. You can purchase the expedition map at Mouse Gear, Disney Traders or World Traveler at International Gateway, then look for hidden Olafs throughout the World Showcase pavilions. Once you find them all, you’ll receive a gift worth melting for (while supplies last). 

Music of the Season

• Inside World Showplace at EPCOT, JOYFUL! will take guests on a magical journey of holiday music.
• Also inside World Showplace, an EPCOT pianist will perform holiday music from around the world.
• Voices of Liberty will use their harmonies to share songs of the season at America Gardens Theatre.
• Also at America Gardens Theatre, Mariachi Cobre will bring to life Las Posadas, a celebration of Mexican holiday customs through music and dance.
• At the Canada pavilion, the JAMMitors will grace the Mill Stage with playful percussion full of merriment.

Characters

Characters dressed in their holiday best will travel around World Showcase, including Queen Anna and Elsa in the “Frozen Holiday Promenade” and Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Goofy making merry on the “Mickey and Friends Holiday World Tour.” Santa will be taking a grand horse-drawn tour around World Showcase, calling out happy holiday wishes to all.

Plan Your Trip

It’s not too late to plan your trip! I’ll be spending Saturday, December 5th at EPCOT. I can’t wait to hear JOYFUL! and the Voices of Liberty perform, they are holiday must-sees for us.

The post Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Wreaths are hung, lights are strung and trees are trimmed with care as holiday celebrations have begun throughout most of the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, with EPCOT and Disney resort hotels joining the festive fun soon. Through Dec. 30, guests will discover enchanting décor, special merchandise, delectable treats and new entertainment experiences all across The Most Magical Place on Earth that celebrate the spirit of the season.

Magic Kingdom

• Several times daily, favorite characters don their holiday best and celebrate the season in a series of special cavalcades, complete with Christmastime floats and music:
  • “Mickey’s Holiday Cavalcade” is a holiday celebration with Mickey Mouse and his friends.
  • “Goofy’s Scrumptious Cavalcade” features Goofy cooking up some holiday fun from his gingerbread house and bake shop floats, joined by dancing gingerbread men.
  • “A Royal Christmas Processional” heralds the arrival of Disney princesses on a crystal castle float.
• Main Street, U.S.A., is the place to catch the Holiday Trolley, delivering festive harmonies from the Dapper Dans barbershop quartet, while toy soldiers march with the Main Street Philharmonic as they bring musical cheer for all to hear.
• Holiday treats include Chip ‘n’ Dale Christmas Churros, a Pistachio Chai Tea Float and An Orange Bird Christmas – an orange-scented white chocolate mousse.
• When night falls at Magic Kingdom, projection effects 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 provides the perfect colorful background for guests seeking a magical holiday portrait.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• “Donald’s Dino Bash” takes its seasonal celebration to the waters of Discovery River, with Donald Duck and pals waving to everyone as they pass.
• Chip ‘n’ Dale jingle through the jungle, bringing their own style of holiday flair to the river on their own flotilla.
• The Discovery Island Drummers cruise along, entertaining guests on the shore with an energetic holiday beat.
• Beginning Dec. 1, the park will feature special holiday-themed food, such as White-Chocolate Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse and a Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwich.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” adds a festive finale featuring Olaf and celebratory songs of the season.
• Minnie Mouse hosts a yuletide dining experience at Hollywood & Vine, inviting some of her best pals – including Santa Goofy – to join the fun.
• Festive foodie items include Mickey’s Holiday Cookie, Holiday Whoopie Pie and Olaf’s Snow Flurry – a yellow cupcake with vanilla buttercream and snow-flurry sugar.
• After dark, the Hollywood Tower Hotel on Sunset Boulevard twinkles with projection effects as it becomes the Hollywood Holiday Tower Hotel. The icon magically transforming into a Muppets gingerbread masterpiece, a Toy Story hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle and a Dickensian village inspired by “Mickey’s Christmas Carol.”

Disney Springs

• The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth invites guests to gaze with wonder at elaborately decorated, Disney-trimmed trees as they explore the shopping, dining and entertainment district.
• Seasonal treats will be available throughout Disney Springs, such as Holiday Mickey Mousse at Amorette’s Patisserie and a Mickey Santa Pinata at The Ganachery.
• Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar transforms into Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar with delightful décor and a limited-time menu of festive favorites.
• Outdoor DJs play holiday music during the day to get guests in the spirt of the season.
• In the evening, stilt-walking toy soldiers, skating snowflakes and a snowfall add a touch of magic for holiday shoppers.

EPCOT

The Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by Advent Health begins Nov. 27, 2020 and will be featured in next week’s travel blog post.

Santa Claus

This year, Santa Claus is checking his list twice as he makes his way around Walt Disney World for special appearances:

• At Magic Kingdom Park, he glides down Main Street, U.S.A., in his sleigh, led by prancing reindeer.
• He makes the trek to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park to spread the joyous spirit of the season from his very own flotilla as he sails down Discovery River.
• Led by an entourage of elves and riding in his red convertible packed with presents, he brings glitz and glamour to a motorcade down Hollywood Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
• Beginning later this month, he’ll be joined by Mrs. Claus at Disney Springs as the merry couple soaks up their last bit of Florida sunshine before their big night. They’ll cruise Lake Buena Vista at Disney Springs in colorfully decorated pontoon boats.
• And starting Nov. 27 at EPCOT, he will take a grand, horse-drawn tour around World Showcase.

Plan Your Visit to Experience 2020 Holiday Fun at Walt Disney World

I have travel clients visiting Walt Disney World throughout this holiday season. Our annual vacation is December 4-7th. I’ll also be enjoying Disney Springs and Winter-Summerland Mini Golf with friends on December 16th. Christmastime at Walt Disney World is my favorite time of the year to visit.

It’s not to late to plan your trip. Just Email me and we will get everything planned!

The post 2020 Holiday Fun at Walt Disney World appeared first on The Mom Maven.

One of the most anticipated restaurant reopenings was Cinderella’s Royal Table. Located in Cinderella Castle, this restaurant reopened September 24th for lunch and dinner. Meals are $62 for adults and $37 for children plus tax and gratuity. I have a few guests who already have this dining experience reserved.

Walt Disney World Dining: ABC Commissary New Menu

ABC Commissary is offering a terrific new menu. From sandwiches and rice bowls to tasty tacos and returning favorites, this menu has it all! 

Sandwiches and Salads

California Burger (Plant-based) – Seared farm-fresh plant-based burger with Sriracha mustard, balsamic-glazed grilled peppers and onions, a “mayonnaise”-ketchup blend, lettuce, and tomato and served with arugula-farro salad, steak fries, or apple slices

NEW Chicken Club Sandwich – Marinated chicken breast on a toasted brioche bun with bacon, provolone cheese, guacamole, ranch dressing, lettuce, and tomato served with arugula-farro salad, steak fries, or apple slices

NEW Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Grilled sourdough toasted with buffalo chicken, Monterey, provolone, cheddar, cream cheese, side of buffalo sauce, and served with arugula-farro salad, steak fries, or apple slices

Mediterranean Salad with Chicken – Chicken breast served over mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumber, pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, and feta tossed in Mediterranean vinaigrette served with hummus and flatbread

Tacos

NEW Pork Carnitas Tacos – Pork carnitas on flour tortillas with salsa verde, pickled onion, and radish served with Mexican rice and black beans

NEW Shrimp Tacos – Sautéed shrimp on flour tortillas with cabbage slaw, chipotle mayo, and mango salsa served with Mexican rice and black beans

Rice Bowls

NEW Curry Rice Bowl with Shrimp – Sautéed shrimp and vegetables with red curry sauce served with Jasmine coconut rice

NEW Plant-based Curry Rice Bowl with Tofu – Pineapple-marinated tofu and sautéed vegetables with red curry sauce served with Jasmine coconut rice

Kid’s Options

NEW Kid’s Pork Taco – Pork carnitas on a flour tortilla served with Mexican rice and black beans

NEW Kid’s Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Grilled American cheese on sourdough served with choice of two sides.

NEW Kid’s Turkey Sandwich – Turkey sandwich served with choice of two sides.

Kid’s Uncrustable – Uncrustable served with choice of two sides.

Walt Disney World Dining: Chef Mickey’s Breakfast Additions

Mickey Mouse and his best pals are returning to breakfast at Chef Mickey’s restaurant in Disney’s Contemporary Resort on December 16, bringing some new items to the menu inspired by their favorite dishes. 

Along with traditional breakfast favorites, you will be able to try the new Mickey’s “Celebration” Pancake, featuring whipped cream, celebration sprinkles, shimmering pixie dust and more. Prefer something a bit more savory? They’re adding a new “Loaded” Potato-Cheese Casserole topped with smoked bacon crumbles and chives.

Last but not least, Goofy’s Banana Bread French Toast will combine unique flavors of banana bread baked in zesty orange-scented French toast batter, topped with Espresso-mascarpone cream, toasted bananas and chocolate crumbles.

Can’t decide on which new item to try? Taste all three as part of an all-you-care-to-eat family style feast with other traditional breakfast favorites. 

When Mickey and friends return, the experience may look a little different than the last time you visited, but you can still expect to smile, wave and make unforgettable memories with some of your favorite characters as they parade through the restaurant in their chef’s best.

Reservations for Chef Mickey’s character breakfast will open on October 17, based on availability. In addition, Disney Resort hotel Guests can make reservations up to 60 days in advance plus the length of their stay (up to 10 days).

As always, I am available to help you plan your magical Walt Disney World vacation, and help you plan all your Walt Disney World Dining plans just Email me and we will get started. 

The post Walt Disney World Dining Updates 10-12-2020 appeared first on The Mom Maven.

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.

From September 15-October 31, 2020, Magic Kingdom guests can experience extra magical Fall fun. As always, Main Street, USA will be decked out in its Fall finery of beautiful orange and gold leaves and wreaths, pumpkins, etc. There will also be a Halloween themed Character Cavalcade with Mickey and Pals in their favorite Halloween costumes!

Magic Kingdom Fall Themed Treats

Favorite Fall treats will also be available! Here is a list of foods and locations:

• Mickey Cinnamon Roll- Main Street Bakery
• Headless Horseman Rides Again- Sunshine Tree Terrace
• Hades Nachos-Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn & Cafe

• Orange and Black Sugar Churros-Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn & Cafe and various Churro Carts
• Cinnamon Donuts served in a Hitchhiking Ghost Novelty Container- Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn & Cafe
• Pumpkin Spiced Waffle Sundae-Sleepy Hollow
• Madame Leota Sipper- Sleepy Hollow

• Constance’s For Better or For Worse Wedding Cake-Liberty Square Market
• Hitchhiking Ghosts Premium Popcorn Bucket- Liberty Square Popcorn Cart
• Poor Unfortunate Souls Float-Storybook Treats
• Not So Poison Apple Cupcake- Pinnochio Village House
• Pumpkin Spice Milkshake- Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
• Pumpkin Spice Soft Serve Sundae-Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

• Mickey Monster Mash Burger- Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe
• Oogie Boogie Dice Novelty Glow Cubes- Various Quick Service Restaurants
• Jack Skellington Sipper- Various Quick Service Restaurants and Outdoor Vending Locations
• Oogie Boogie Premium Popcorn Bucket-Various Popcorn Carts

• Mickey Pumpkin Premium Popcorn Bucket- Various Popcorn Carts
• Halloween Base Popcorn Bucket-Various Popcorn Carts
• Hitchhiking Ghost Sipper- Various Quick Service Restaurants

Halloween Costumes

You read that correctly, guests of all ages will be allowed to wear costumes in the Magic Kingdom during normal business September 15-October 31, 2020!!! Costume masks are not permitted for those over age 14 and approved Covid face coverings must still be worn. To see all of the Disney Costume Guidelines, click the link and scroll to the bottom of the page.

We will be at the Magic Kingdom October 16th. I don’t know if we will be in costume or not. In the past I have gone as Dole Whip, Olaf, and Ursula. Some years we have just worn our fall themed Mickey t-shirts because it’s been to hot for costumes. Do you plan to visit Walt Disney World this Fall? I’m here to help you plan a magical Disney vacation. Just Email me to get started.

The post Fall Fun Coming to the Magic Kingdom appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Back in March I wrote Walt Disney World is Closed and I’m Struggling. Walt Disney World is my escape from reality, it’s what I do to forget the tough parts of life for a little while. Going 135 days between park visits was hard, but I survived.

My Magic Kingdom Trip Report

I arrived at the Magic Kingdom parking lot about 10:00am. I was parked in the back row of Peter Pan, row 208. To help with physical distancing, Disney parked cars in every other space. When a row was full, they went back and filled in the empty spaces. That way the first group is on their way to the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC) before the second group was being parked.

Trams are not running so I had to take the short walk to the TTC.. First stop was the temperature check tent. There was no line. I just walked up, had my temperature checked, and walked on through.

Security has changed again and is a bit different from what it was a week ago. No longer are they using the clear plastic bags for your metal items. You put metal item in a bin and walk through the metal detector with your bag then pick up the items in your bin.

When you arrive at the touch points the finger scan has a cover over it so just scan you Magic Band or Card and go. It’s so quick and easy.

Before I even walked under the train station I could feel my emotions welling up, I was HOME! I cried as I walked out onto Main St USA, I couldn’t even put my emotions into words. I was kind of glad this was a solo trip, I needed time to process what I was feeling.

I wandered around town square and up Main St USA. I saw my first Character Cavalcade with Piglet, Rabbit, and Eeyore one the trolley. I heard cast members reminding people to wear there face masks properly, and I meandered down the street towards the castle.

Cinderella Castle got is almost done with her makeover. You will see lifts, some with painters on them, in my photos. The caste is stunning, and brought me to tears the closer I got to her. Photographs don’t do her justice, you have to see her in person. Hopefully next month the construction vehicles will be gone and I can get some even better shots.

Since wait times were low across the park I decided to start my day in Tomorrowland and work my way around the park. It was nice not to have to worry about planning out the day and running to a Fastpass at a specific time.

Magic Kingdom Attractions

I don’t want to give you specifics on every attraction I visited so I’ll try to respect your time and give you the important information in bullet points.

• The longest wait time I incurred was 15 minutes for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train!
• Due to Physical distancing lines look a lot longer than they are, posted wait times were accurate.
• Sometimes the wait is slightly longer because they are cleaning the ride vehicles. There is an announcement made to let those in the line know what the brief hold up is for.
• Theater style attractions-Every other row is roped off. The rows that are open have 4 open seats and then 3 seats labeled as not available, then the 4/3 split continues down the row. Parties of more than 4 will be split up.
• It’s easier to get a higher score on Buzz Lightyear’s’s Space Ranger Spin when you are the only person in the room. You know for sure which red dot is actually yours. I got my highest score ever.
• There is hand sanitizer at every ride exit. Use it. You touch a lot of things entering, riding, and exiting each attraction,
• Other rides were either skipping entire ride vehicles between parties or at least skipping a few rows between parties.

Magic Kingdom Entertainment, Dining, and Shopping

• I LOVE the Character Cavalcades. I didn’t get to see them all this visit but I saw 4 different ones and two of those I saw twice. I love the parade, but we don’t watch it every time we are in the park because of the crowds and having to find a spot an hour in advance. You don’t have either of those issues with the Character Cavalcades.
• Character sightings-I saw Stitch in Tomorrowland, some of the Country Bears in Frontierland, and Jack Sparrow in Adventureland. I feel like I saw more characters in one day than I have in a long time.
• Dining-Check My Disney Experience to see what is open. Many of the smaller quick service snack places were closed. Mobile ordering on the app is the way to go so make sure you have a credit or debit card attached to your account before you leave home.
• Shopping, some of the smaller stores are still closed. Big Top Souvenirs is closed, I enjoy shopping there and I walked all the way back there to find out it was not open.

Health and Safety Precautions

Disney, as always, is doing a wonderful job. I remember we had a big Disney trip planned with out of state family members a month after 9/11 happened. Lots of people were canceling travel plans, but we didn’t. We knew Disney would do there best to keep us safe, even though bag checks were new and felt very strange at that time.

• Temperature checks
• Masks, like the n95 mask, must be worn by everyone over age 2, some exceptions apply. Masks must have ear loops or ties, no neck gaiters and must cover mouth, nose and chin.
• I tested 3 different types of mask on this trip. The most comfortable was the typical blue surgical mask. My rectangular cloth mask was second best and I lasted about 3 hours in that one. My cloth mask with the point on the nose barely lasted 45 minutes. It was hotter to wear and harder to breathe. It also caused my glasses to fog up the most.
• Hand sanitizer stations are everywhere.
• Attraction seating and lines are physically distanced.
• Plexiglass barriers up in ride queues where needed.
• Restaurant seating is physically distanced.
• Cast Members are constantly cleaning. I saw one wiping down a light pole!

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

If you are a Disney regular, book your trip, the park is clean, the crowds are low. If you don’t think you’ll miss the parade and the fireworks, book your trip. If this is your once in a lifetime, I want all the bells and whistles, book your trip for 2021. I was sure I’d have something negative to say about my first day back but I really don’t. I was sad that they are out of the large Pixar face masks but other than that the day was a wonderful day filled with joy and lots of smiles under my mask.

As always I am here to help you plan your magical Walt Disney World vacation for either 2020 or 2021.Just Email me and we’ll get started.

The post My July 2020 Magic Kingdom Trip Report 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.

About Gideon’s Bakehouse

Multi-award-winning Orlando area business Gideon’s Bakehouse will be opening its long-anticipated second location in Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Gideon’s original location opened in late 2016 at Orlando’s East End Market with one employee and an $800 budget. The Bakehouse quickly gained international recognition for its almost ½-pound, small-batch handmade cookies. Word quickly spread, and lines up to 80 minutes long became a regular sight – with locals and visitors alike all hoping to get their hands on their favorite flavor before Gideon’s sold out.

Anticipating to open later this year, Gideon’s Bakehouse plans to bring an expanded menu of its cookie and cake slices to The Landing at Disney Springs. Taking advantage of this larger space, Gideon’s will add its own line of unique iced coffees, like the Original Peanut Butter Iced Coffee, built to pair flawlessly with their desserts.

Guests can expect to see all of their favorite cookie flavors, plus new limited editions available exclusively during timed daily releases. Guests will be able to enjoy the ever-popular Coffee Cake Cookie (previously only available one month a year) every morning at Gideon’s in Disney Springs. For those looking for something extra special after dinner, Gideon’s is introducing a Hot Cookie Hour each evening.

“We’re also excited to bring more cake flavors to our new location, offering never-before-seen creations like our special line of Double Frosted Cakes,” said Lewis. “There are more than a few secrets we have up our sleeves, but you’ll have to wait and see. It’s not Gideon’s if it isn’t a little dark and mysterious.”

Gideon’s is also known for its uncommon visual presentation. Their original location takes inspiration from artists like Edward Gorey while paying tribute to a similarly eerie fan-favorite attraction at Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park. Its flagship location will look to build on that experience. Not only can guests expect a whimsical Victorian design to the new shop, but they can also look forward to collectible art becoming a part of their product packaging. “We aim to make the wait in line entertaining by immersing everyone in a transformative environment that will share our story as they progress towards the counter. Experience is everything to us, so memorable sweets and whimsical atmosphere exist hand in hand. This opportunity is truly a dream come true and will allow us to flex all of our creative muscles in both desserts and decor. We’re passionate, inspired, and ready,” said Lewis.

If your mouth is watering as much as mine is right now, take a look at the menu from their original bakery to get you even more excited for what’s to come.

The post Gideon’s Bakehouse Coming to Disney Springs appeared first on The Mom Maven.