Category Archives: Disney

Three New Story Elements Added to the Pixar Play Parade at Disneyland

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Pixar Play Parade returns April 13 to the Disneyland Resort – this time, at Disneyland park! Part of the limited-time Pixar Fest celebration, this delightful parade will bring even more of your favorite Pixar stories to life with the addition of three new story elements.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The parade will begin as all Pixar films have, with an appearance by the iconic and adorable Pixar Lamp. Rolling ahead of the famous lamp will be the familiar yellow Pixar Ball, making a cameo in Pixar Play Parade, as it has in many Pixar films.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Also joining the parade are characters from the beloved film, “Up.” Wilderness Explorer Russell will appear astride the colorful flightless bird, Kevin, with Carl Fredricksen and Dug following behind amid green foliage and snipe chicks, with Carl’s tethered house floating above.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Another popular Pixar story coming to Pixar Play Parade is “Inside Out.” Perched atop colorful memory orbs, Joy and Sadness take flight aboard Bing Bong’s rocket wagon, with Bing Bong himself cheering them on!

Don’t miss these new story elements and the return of Pixar Play Parade, beginning April 13 at Disneyland park.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Treat Yourself to the Free Summer 2018 Meal Offer at Disney World

We’ve cooked up a sweet surprise!

Enjoy a FREE meal at a Quick-Service location, per person ages 3 and up, per night when you buy a non-discounted 5-night/6-day Walt Disney Travel Company room & ticket package at a select Disney Value Resort.
For arrivals most nights 5/29–8/25/18. Book through 2/11/18.

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Tickets valid for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. First use must occur on or before 12/31/18. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

Offer excludes campsites and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort––The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms. Everyone in the room must be on the same package.
Each Quick-Service meal includes one entrée and one nonalcoholic beverage (or, if age 21 or over, one beer, wine or cocktail). Children ages 3–9 must order from the children’s menu, if available.Walt Disney Travel Company CST# 1022229-50 ©Disney WDWRST-18-62450

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

18 Reasons to Book a 2018 Disney World Vacation

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With a new whimsical land set to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this summer, plus the return of some amazing annual festivals and a multitude of new dining locations, 2018 will be an exciting year at Walt Disney World Resort.

If you’re considering planning a 2018 Disney World vacation, be sure to check out these 18 reasons why the new year should be the year for your Disney vacation!

1. Star Wars: The Last Jedi-Inspired Additions Are On Display At Star Wars Launch Bay – New props and models from Star Wars: The Last Jedi were recently put on display to Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

2. Experience Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire Hyper-Reality Experience by ILMxLAB and The VOID – This newly opened experience is guaranteed to be a hit for Star Wars fans in 2018. Located in Disney Springs, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire transports guests deep into the Star Wars universe, allowing them to walk freely and untethered throughout a multisensory experience with friends and family. In groups of four, teams will go undercover as stormtroopers to capture Imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Star Tours – The Adventures Continue Now Offers Two New Destinations – This attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios now takes passengers to two exciting new destinations: Crait, the site of an epic battle in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and Batuu, the remote outpost guests will discover when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at the park in 2019.

4. 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration Begins January 3 – The Walt Disney World Marathon will mark its 25th anniversary this year. The race weekend will “run” from Jan. 3-7, and include a 5K, 10K, half-and-full marathon.

5. Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts Expands To Run January 12-February 19 – Epcot’s art festival returns for a second year, with this year’s event offering seminars, workshops classes on drawing animation, photography and the art of making topiaries. Guests can also enjoy world-class cuisine at the food studios, or enjoy a Disney on Broadway series performance.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

6. Disney After Hours Event Nights Return to Magic Kingdom Park January-March – Disney After Hours event nights will return to Magic Kingdom Park on January 19, 26, and 30, February 8 and 15, March 1 and 8. Experience an event that takes place after the park closes and is only open to a limited number of guests (which means much shorter lines) at 25 attractions and experiences.

7. Disney Springs Will Welcome Eight New Dining Locations – A total of eight exciting new F&B locations are set to make their grand debuts at Disney Springs in 2018. The Edison, along with Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Enzo’s Hideaway and Pizza Ponte are scheduled to open early in 2018, while Terralina Crafted ItalianWine Bar George, Jaleo and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill are set to debut later on in the year.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

8. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary – This year’s festival will run from February 28-May 28. The 90-day event brings with it a multitude of Disney character topiaries, tasty offerings at 15 Outdoor Kitchens, garden tours, the Garden Rocks music series, new kids’ activities, the Egg-Stravaganza scavenger hunt and much more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

9. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates It’s 20th Anniversary – Walt Disney World’s theme park dedicated to celebrating life in the animal kingdom will mark a milestone 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22, this year.

10. An “UP”-Inspired Show Will Debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom This Spring – A new show featuring Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s film “UP” will offer guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure at the Caravan Theater in Anandapur Village. Stay tuned for more on this new experience.

11. Celebrate The Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Disney Springs – Raglan Road is the place to be for St. Patty’s Day, this March 17. The annual event features live music and Irish dance performances, plus plenty of great food.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

12. Toy Story Land Opens in Summer 2018 – The highly anticipated expansion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will debut to guests this summer, and with it, two new attractions: Alien Swirling Saucers and the Slinky Dog Dash family coaster. Guests can already catch a glimpse of what’s in store inside the park’s Walt Disney Presents attraction, where they can view the model and some attraction vehicle maquettes.

13. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Enhancements Will Debut This Summer – Several areas of this resort are currently undergoing enhancements, including a transformation for the resort’s existing lobby, an expansion of Centertown Market, and the addition of a new Caribbean-inspired restaurant and pool bar.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

14. Get Into The Halloween Spirit At Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – This event is a must-do for guests visiting in the fall. Get ready to collect candy, dress in costumes, and enjoy Halloween entertainment like only Disney can create. Highlights of this special-ticket party include “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks, the “Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” and more.

15. Fall Will Be Unforgettable With The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – Plan for a fantastic fall with the return of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The 2018 event will feature many guest favorites – including global marketplaces, the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, guest chef appearances, culinary demonstrations, beverage seminars and so much more.

Toy soldiers parade down Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom during “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” The festive processional is one of the happy highlights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a night of holiday splendor with lively stage shows, a unique holiday parade, Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season nighttime fireworks, and snow flurries on Main Street, U.S.A. The special-ticket event takes place on select nights in November and December in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Ryan Wendler, photographer)

16. Holiday Favorite Events Will Return – There are so many wonderful things to see and do during the most wonderful time of the year! With Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties at Magic Kingdom Park, the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, the Flurry of Fun celebration Disney’s Hollywood Studios, holiday shopping and entertainment at Disney Springs, and more, the holiday fun is never ending.

17. ESPN Wide World of Sports Will Expand – ESPN Wide World of Sports will open a new multi-use sports and entertainment venue in 2018. It will seat more than 8,000 guests and have the ability to host six regulation basketball courts, six regulation volleyball courts or concert configurations. For cheer and dance events, it will accommodate performance and warm-up space and include a flexible design for one large competition space that can be set up for as many as four competition areas. Additional areas can be tailored for warm-up and practice, along with areas for judges and officials. There will be concessions throughout the building, and additional box office and entry to the complex.

18. Look For More Updates on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2019 – Slated to open in 2019, this entire land will allow guests to visit a remote trading port on the edge of wild space, where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life – and where guests will find themselves in the middle of the action. The lands will feature two major attractions that put guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. Each attraction – and even the land itself – will offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe like never before.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Six Reasons to Book a 2018 Disney Cruise Line Vacation

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Happy New Year! It’s time to ring in 2018, and with the new year comes new adventures on the high seas. From the return of both Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea, to new enhancements coming to the Disney Magic and more, you won’t want to miss all the fun to be had aboard a 2018 Disney cruise.

Here are some of the highlights for a 2018 Disney Cruise Line vacation:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Star Wars Day at Sea
Star Wars Day at Sea returns on 15 special Disney Fantasy sailings from January through April 2018. The epic day-long celebration will once again transport guests to a galaxy far, far away to celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Wars saga. Plus, new for 2018, Rey will take the stage in the “Summon the Force” nighttime deck show.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Marvel Day at Sea
Marvel Day at Sea returns with eight special Disney Magic voyages from Miami departing January through April 2018. All-day entertainment includes interactions with some of the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and the menacing foes who oppose them, an extraordinary deck show spectacular, Marvel-themed youth activities, special merchandise and unique food and beverage offerings.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Enhancements to the Disney Magic
Exciting new spaces for guests of all ages are coming to the Disney Magic in March 2018. Headlining the enhancements is an enchanting dining experience for families at the new Rapunzel’s Royal Table, the first table service restaurant themed to “Tangled” that features characters and live entertainment.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Itineraries and Ports
In 2018, Disney Cruise Line will make first-time visits to destinations in Italy and Ireland during the summer and to Bermuda and Quebec City, Canada in the fall. Throughout the year, Disney Cruise Line will continue to take guests to favorite destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, Canada and Mexican Riviera.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Halloween on the High Seas
From September through October, all four Disney Cruise Line ships transform into a ghoulish wonderland. The extra-spooky celebration features Halloween-themed parties, lively entertainment, unique menu items and elaborate décor, including The Pumpkin Tree, which magically transforms throughout the cruise.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Very Merrytime Cruises
Starting in early November, Disney Cruise Line adds some extra sparkle to each ship with special holiday décor, traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow!

So, grab your passport and your loved ones and make going on a 2018 Disney cruise your New Year’s resolution!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Kakamora Chaos with Moana Experience at Aulani, a Disney Resort in Hawaii

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Moana’s travels take her to many exciting destinations – and one of her favorites is Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. Starting today, guests can visit with the Disney heroine during a new premium experience!

During “Kakamora Chaos with Moana” at Aunty’s Beach House, Moana is eager to learn more about her new friends, especially the games they play. During the interactive 90-minute experience, young guests will learn to play children’s games from Hawai‘i, as well as a game from Moana’s home island of Motunui: the Kakamora Relay!*

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There are other fun ways to see Moana during her visits to Aulani Resort. Guests can join Moana and Aulani Resort’s beloved storyteller “Uncle” as they share the importance of the canoe—or wa‘a—during Kahakai Canoe Racing. The interactive activity concludes after building a canoe model and racing in the lagoon!

In the evenings, resort guests may choose to wind down around the fire pit as Moana and Uncle recount tales of adventure during Mo‘olelo Firepit Storytelling. Guests attending the the resort’s KA WA‘A lū‘au will also be delighted when Moana makes a special appearance during the lively pre-show, which pays homage to the incredible journey the Hawaiian people made across the ocean.

*Advance reservations for Kakamora Chaos with Moana are strongly recommended. Please call the Reservation Center at (808) 674-6200. This premium experience is available at an additional charge.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Exciting New Star Wars Day at Sea Experiences Planned for 2018

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Brand new experiences featuring the Dark Side, the Resistance, the droids and more are coming to the Disney Fantasy when Star Wars Day at Sea returns on 15 special sailings this January through April. Check out some of the new out-of-this-galaxy Star Wars Day at Sea experiences that are setting sail in 2018:

The Dark Side

  • To kick off Star Wars Day at Sea celebrations, in a one-time experience the night before the event, Darth Vader and Stormtroopers will march into the ship’s atrium for an Imperial takeover.
  • Kylo Ren will appear in “Jedi Training Academy,” where young Jedi-in-training summon their courage and the Force to face off against Darth Vader and Kylo Ren.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Resistance

  • Rey will take the stage in the “Summon the Force” nighttime deck show that celebrates great moments from across the Star Wars galaxy including iconic characters and new favorites, complete with an epic fireworks finale accompanied by John Williams’ iconic music.
  • In “Porgs Onboard! Scavenger Hunt,” Chewbacca needs your help to track the Porgs that have been wreaking havoc throughout the ship. You’ll find and decode secret messages to solve a ship-wide quest and be greeted by everyone’s favorite Wookiee at the end of your adventure.
  • In the days leading up to the epic celebration, check out all of the Star Wars feature films in the Buena Vista Theatre, culminating in a showing of the newest film, “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Fun for the whole family

  • New in 2018, you are guaranteed a time to meet and take photographs with C-3PO and R2-D2, Chewbacca and Darth Vader. Before you even step onboard, you have the chance to reserve these character encounters online under the My Disney Cruise section of disneycruise.com.
  • Guests can step into the saga and pose with a life-size replica of Han Solo frozen in Carbonite, as well as other cool Star Wars-themed backdrops.
  • In Star Wars Drawing Academy, guests can learn to draw some of their favorite Star Warscharacters and a new character from “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” Is it a Porg? You’ll just have to wait and see!
  • Star Wars-themed interactive games, trivia and activities for the whole family will be hosted by your Disney cruise staff on the pool deck and in the D Lounge.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

These are the droids you’re looking for

  • C-3PO will make an appearance in Star Wars: Command Post in Disney’s Oceaneer Club. During a special activity, children train to be members of the Resistance and fend off the First Order. C-3PO pays a visit to check on their training and further human-cyborg relations.
  • Droid Racing is a fast-paced activity that the whole family will enjoy where guests can race BB-Unit droids around a course in the ship’s atrium.
  • In a hands-on activity for families, everyone tests their skills to become master droid builders and create an intergalactic droid.

All of these cool new experiences are included in a Star Wars Day at Sea cruise, and just some of the ways you can celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Warsgalaxy.

It’s not too late for your family to join in on the exciting experiences during Star Wars Day at Sea during your family’s Caribbean cruise vacation! Contact us today for details!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.

Adventures by Disney Germany Itinerary Heads to Berlin in 2018

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Germany is one of my favorite countries in Europe to visit for the culture, cuisine, history and beauty of this country. And, now there will be yet another reason to head back to this charming country – in 2018, the Adventures by Disney Germany vacation will take travelers to Berlin, for the first time ever.

This newly reimagined Adventures by Disney Germany trip will still include a visit to the storybook town of Rothenburg, as well as a mesmerizing tour of the breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle. But, next year you’ll also have the chance to experience both the South and the North of Germany in a whole new way.

Grab a Bavarian pretzel because these are the top five “must-do” activities on this Adventures by Disney Germany itinerary:

1. Bike along the Berlin Wall
New for 2018, take a scenic trip on a train from Bamberg to the storied city of Berlin. While in Berlin, bike along the Berlin Wall, an iconic symbol of the Cold War. Prepare to be blown away by the unique mix of old and new, including stunning architecture and a vibrant art scene.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Explore Neuschwanstein Castle
Journey to the idyllic grounds of Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most popular castles in all of Europe, for a fairytale-esque tour of this 19th-century masterpiece. Fun fact: This architectural marvel was Walt Disney’s inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Park!

3. Master the Art of Graffiti
Also new for 2018, learn firsthand how the vivid street art of Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt got its start. Beginning in the vibrant streets of Kreuzberg and Friedrichhain, the tour will conclude at Humboldthain Music Club for a colorful Graffiti workshop, where you can create a graffiti canvas of your own.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Journey to Rothenburg
Travel to the Bavarian village of Rothenburg, which served as the inspiration for Pinocchio’s village. Take in the view of the cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses, and learn to twist pretzels from the head chef at the Striffler Bakery.

5. Indulge in German Fare
Speaking of food, Germany offers a variety of culinary adventures. One of the best experiences will be your dinner at the world famous Hofbrauhaus! Enjoy partaking in a meal of traditional and scrumptious Bavarian fare.

Start planning your Adventures by Disney Germany vacation today!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Stop by the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs for Virtual Backgrounds

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Disney PhotoPass Studio located in the Disney Springs Marketplace is a favorite among princesses and knights who have visited Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, but you don’t have to be on your way to the ball to have your photo taken here!

You can take a classic – or goofy – family or individual portrait on one of our standard backdrops.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re looking for a slightly more specialized photo experience, this studio also offers those of all ages the opportunity to pose in front of virtual backdrops using a green-screen technique.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Here are just a few of the numerous virtual backdrop themes currently available: “Aladdin;” “Beauty and the Beast;” “Brave;” “Cars;” “Cinderella;” “Elena of Avalor;” “Inside Out;” “Jake and the Never Land Pirates;” “The Lion Guard;” “The Little Mermaid;” “Mickey and the Roadster Racers;” “Moana;” “Monsters, Inc.;” “Mulan;” “Peter Pan;” “Pirates of the Caribbean;” “The Princess and the Frog;” “Sleeping Beauty;” “Snow White;” Star Wars; “Tangled;” “Toy Story” and more!

So smile and say cheese, arrr, Agrabah, McQueen or Mickey – the choices are endless! Your photographer will make sure you have the best backdrop for your photo.

These photos can be linked to your My Disney Experience account and downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement or purchased individually.

If you’re looking for an even more customized offering that allows your little princess to step right into a classic Disney story, be sure to ask a photographer at the studio about a Personalized Storybook!

No reservations are needed to visit the studio, so stop by for your photo shoot whenever it fits into your day at Disney Springs!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Five Ways to Feel the Force at the Star Wars Command Post on Disney Fantasy

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With the recent arrival of Star Wars Command Post aboard the Disney Fantasy, the Force is growing strong on the high seas! Young Padawans have been busy training with members of the Resistance and heroes of the Star Wars saga to embark on missions against the First Order throughout this new youth space in Disney’s Oceaneer Club.

Check out some of the activities that take kids from Padawans to Jedi in no time at Star Wars Command Post:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

5. Kids can take a seat and set course for some pretty far out places in the galaxy via Starfighter Training Simulators. From the icy planet of Hoth to the vast forests of Endor, epic missions have them traversing the galaxy in less than 12 parsecs!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. When training to become one with the Force, children are visited by BB-8 himself, guiding them to success in a vital mission against the First Order. Keep an eye out, because you never know where this skittish but loyal astromech droid will show up!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. While exploring this hidden Resistance base, young ones can virtually join the cause and engage in games via tablets showing them what it takes to become a part of the Resistance. Remember, the location of this Command Post MUST be kept a secret!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Children can step up to the one-of-a-kind “holotable” and choose their larger-than-life vehicles or droid companions for their missions. Warning, if you don’t choose your droid, they might just choose you!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Once their training is complete, Jedi in-the-making are put to the test and able to channel their new-found Force in an ambitious battle against First Order Stormtroopers. Devotion to the Resistance and strength in the Force are a must in order to move objects and play Jedi mind tricks on unsuspecting foes.

The out-of-this-world adventures don’t stop here. With seven-night cruises aboard the Disney Fantasy, there’s enough time for lots more epic fun.

All this and much more are also available on special Star Wars Day at Sea sailings aboard the Disney Fantasy in early 2018. Throughout the day-long celebration, your family will enjoy encounters with the galaxy’s most formidable and heroic characters, a deck party spectacular with fireworks and other Star Wars-themed family fun. So, grab your droid and prepare to visit a galaxy far, far away in a whole new way!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

10 Unique Experiences at 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

As many of you know, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts is back in 2018 to celebrate all things art – performing, visual and culinary. With seminars, workshops, and more planned, we wanted to highlight ten unique experiences at 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There are many seminars and workshops from top Disney, local and nationally-renowned artists but here are a few you don’t want to miss:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Art of Topiaries – Our Disney horticulture team will be showing you how we create some of the amazing signature Walt Disney World topiaries you see here on the Disney Parks Blog. After this seminar, you’ll be inspired to create Disney sculptures at home to amaze your neighbors.

Watermelon Carving – You need to see this to believe it. A watermelon will be artfully carved while you receive great tips and tricks to use at your next party. This seminar is hosted by the National Watermelon Promotion Board and will be something to talk about!

Magic with Water – The same Disney Photo Imaging team you read about here on the Disney Parks Blog will discuss tips and tricks for taking great photos around water; including swimming pools, play fountains, waterfalls, and even in the rain. You’ll also learn about using camera settings, lenses, and locations to get the best results.

Animated Flip Books – This session is animation 101 where you’ll have the opportunity to create your own animated Flip Book while going over the fundamental principles of animation with one of our Disney animators. Drop by this seminar and watch your drawings come to life!

Food Styling 101 – If you love taking photos of amazing dishes, this is your experience. The session will look at the basics of what goes into making food photo- and video-ready. Lessons include going from ingredients to a beautiful hero shot, talking tricks and tools of the trade and sharing tips to make your own food photography shine.

Inspiring Floral – Over the years, the Disney Parks Blog has covered some of the amazing work created by Disney Floral Designers. This workshop will share floral design principles along with Disney-inspired creations to help you bring the magic of Disney home at any time of the year.

Handcrafted Calligraphy – It’ll be difficult not to have fun learning the basics of pointed pen calligraphy. This workshop will cover topics such as mastering faux calligraphy, how to hold your oblique pen, letter formation, common issues you may run into, and which paths you can take with your new skill.

Phone Cam Photography – This photography session from Disney Photo Imaging is for everyone! You will learn how to maximize the capabilities of your phone’s camera to improve your photos. Lighting adjustment, color adjustment, taking High Dynamic Range photos, time lapse, and how to edit your photos are just a few of the topics on the agenda.

Handwritten Typography – Nothing is more personal than typography created by hand and at this workshop, a Walt Disney World Resort creative service manager will teach you how to draw your own hand drawn typography to create personalized gifts and cards.

Storytelling Drawings – A single drawing can tell a story – and this workshop will show you how to do it. A Disney animator will share the art of quick sketching from life. Gesture drawing of people covered in this session is a foundational practice for animators, storyboard artists, and directors.

What sounds good to you? Let us know in the comments below.

And to book any of these experiences at 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts, call 407-WDW-TOUR or 407-939-8687 or ask your travel agent for assistance.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote.