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Top 10 Things to Do with Kids at Universal Orlando Resort

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From the Universal Orlando Resort Blog:

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

At Universal Orlando Resort there is fun for the whole family, which means there is no shortage of activities for the little ones!

Check out these 10 things to do with kids at Universal Orlando Resort:

1. Breakfast at Voodoo Doughnut

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

When you’re on vacation, it’s ok to eat sweets for breakfast, right? Then start your day of fun with a stop by Voodoo Doughnuts at Universal CityWalk. There you’ll find the most delicious doughnuts ever – with all the flavors you can think of!

2. A Day of Fun at Universal’s Volcano Bay

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you want a place to have fun with kids and also relax while they burn some energy, Volcano Bay is the place to be. The park offers a lot of play areas, like Runamukka Reef, where kids of any age can have fun.

3. Flying on a Bike at E.T. Adventure

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

This is your chance to show your kids a little bit of your childhood memories! Who hasn’t dreamed of flying through the sky on a bike with E.T.? In this attraction, you get to make that happen with your whole family. And keep an eye on the end of the ride – he has a surprise for you.

4. Dance with Characters at Superstar Parade

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

A break during the day for a little fun and dance? Yes, please! See your favorite characters up close in the Superstar Parade, including the cute puppies and cats from The Secret Life of Pets.

5. Burn Some Energy at Fievel’s Playland

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

This themed playground inspired by the mouse Fievel Mousekewitz, from An American Tale, is the perfect place for the little ones to burn some extra energy during the day! Here they can run, jump and climb as much as they want.

6. Meet a Dinosaur

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Do you remember the first time you saw a dinosaur? Your kids will definitely never forget! At Raptor Encounter you come face-to-face with the velociraptor Blue, from the Jurassic World movies. We guarantee this encounter will result in awesome selfies.

7. Fly Over the Park on a Pteranodon

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Still talking about prehistoric creatures, how about taking your little adventurers for a ride on a Pteranodon? The Pteranodon Flyers ride will take you on a flight under the wings of a dinosaur with a great view from the park as a bonus.

8. Meet Your Favorite Characters

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

See your favorite characters come to life at Universal Orlando. Your kids will surely never forget the time they met Dora the Explorer or SpongeBob SquarePants in person.

9. Watch Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

This nighttime water and light show will amaze travelers of all ages, especially kids! You will live amazing and fun moments inspired by some of your favorite characters, all coming to life at the Universal Studios Florida lagoon.

10. Chill at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Down time during vacation is just as important. Stay with your family at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and enjoy all the comfort and play areas available. We guarantee your kids will love the pool and the awesome view of Volcano Bay water theme park.

What are your favorite things to do with kids at Universal Orlando? Share in the comments!

How to Add a Day at Universal to Your Disney World Vacation

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Many guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels or Orlando area hotels want to spend a day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Orlando Resort. Disney does not provide transportation to Universal Studios from any of the Disney Hotels, so how do you add a day at Universal without a car? The most convenient and affordable way to add a day at Universal to a Disney World vacation is by purchasing a Universal ticket that includes a round-trip shuttle!

We offer a one or two day park to park ticket that includes roundtrip shuttle transfers from any of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels. The shuttle transfers are through Quick Transportation. It is an easy process. After you book your ticket, you call at least 24 hours before you are visiting Universal Studios to schedule your pickup time. Then, you are picked up from your hotel for your day at Universal Studios.

Once you are done playing at Universal Studios, you call the same number to schedule your pickup time to head back to your Disney Hotel. The shuttle can run until 2 AM, which means that you can stay and play at CityWalk after your day at Universal Studios and then take the shuttle back to your resort.

The shuttle transfers saves you from $90 on transportation from Disney to Universal Studios. Plus, this ticket is also saving you $10 per person off the regular gates prices.  One more HUGE perk, you do not have to wait in line at the ticket windows.  You walk right up to the electronic kiosks to pick up your tickets.  This can easily save you 30 minutes!

We can even add Universal’s unlimited Express Pass to these tickets to help you enjoy as much as possible during your day at Universal by skipping the line at most attractions! Plus, if you book your tickets by March 14, 2019, you’ll get two days FREE with the purchase of a two day ticket!

Call Siera today at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to book your day (or two) at Universal Orlando Resort so you can experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Five Ways to Celebrate and Connect with the Navi in Pandora- the World of Avatar

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Since Pandora – The World of Avatar opened earlier this year, Walt Disney World Resort guests just can’t get enough. Whether it’s taking a wild adventure atop a mountain banshee at Avatar – Flight of Passage, traveling down the Na’vi River Journey to spy the Na’vi Shaman of Songs, or gazing in amazement at the intricacies of Pandora’s amazing floating mountains, there’s so much fun to be had.

And of course, there are many ways guests become even more immersed in Pandoran culture during their visit. Here are five ways we suggest celebrating and connecting with the Navi in Pandora – The World of Avatar:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Create & Personalize Your Own Avatar Action Figure – The ACE Avatar Maker at Windtraders uses state-of-the-art facial scanners to grab your image and create a human/Na’vi hybrid figure. After the image is captured, guests are free to personalize their avatar’s eye color, facial striping pattern, hairstyle and more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Visit Colors of Mo’ara – Colors of Mo’ara helps guests see themselves as one of the Na’vi by giving them Na’vi-inspired face painting with authentic Pandoran markings.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Headbands & Tails – What Na’vi look would be complete without accessories? Windtraders carries an assortment of Na’vi inspired headbands, tails, hooded jackets – and even shoes and walking sticks that interact with the land at night.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Banshee Matching – A milestone in the life of a Na’vi is when he or she is matched with a Banshee. Head into Windtraders, where cast members are ready to help you find your perfect match.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

5. Dine at Satu’li Canteen – Stop into the land’s former RDA mess hall to try a fast-casual menu that’s been inspired by Pandora’s natural abundance.

How do you plan to celebrate and connect with the Navi in Pandora- the World of Avatar during your next visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

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. 

Top Six Blue Man Group Experiences Not to Miss at Universal Orlando Resort

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

For over 10 years, Blue Man Group Orlando has delivered electrifying music, interactive art and hilarious hijinks in their nightly show in Universal CityWalk.

Get your marshmallows ready – here are the top six Blue Man Group experiences at Universal Orlando Resort that you won’t want to miss:

1. Dare to GIF in Full Color

In the lobby of the Blue Man Group theater, you’ll find a photo kiosk where you can create a personalized GIF. Plan out your three poses and smile for the camera, and you’ll end up with a GIF ready to share on social media. Make sure you tag @bluemangroup and add in #BlueManORL!

2. See Your Name on the Big Screen

We know there’s nothing quite like seeing your name on the big screen. The theater features LED screens that are ready to host your name just before each performance (feel free to nominate a friend to be featured, as well!). After you’ve booked your tickets, email the Blue Man Group Box Office at least 48 hours before the show to see if a spot is available.

3. Dinner Date with the Blue Men

Didn’t check out a CityWalk restaurant before the show? Maybe you’ll be the lucky audience member chosen to dine onstage with the Blue Men. No one can be sure of what’s in store once their dinner guest is seated, but laughs are always guaranteed.

4. Get Ready to Get Messy

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

If you’re looking to make the most of your Blue Man Group experience, look no further than the “Poncho Section.” Located in the four rows closest to the stage, this section ensures that you’ll be up close for all the action.

Blue Man Group uses over 50 gallons of vibrant paint and 32 pounds of Jell-O each week, so you’ll be thankful for the complimentary ponchos by the time the show is over.

5. The Ultimate Dance Party

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Sometimes, you just need to shake your booty. Or your “dance captain” or “sit biscuit” or “wiggle cloud”. Whatever you want to call it, the Blue Men are ready to help you move it.

Blue Man Group throws the ultimate dance party in the show’s encore, complete with thundering music, fog machines, toilet-paper streamers and larger-than-life glowing inflatable balls.

6. Get Up Close and Personal with a Blue Man

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

With Blue Man Group’s VIP Experience you’ll enjoy some seriously special treatment that takes you you behind the scenes. First, take a pre-show tour before enjoying the performance from the best seats in the house. After the show, you’ll get an exclusive meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with a Blue Man, so you can bring home truly unique photographs and autographs (signed in blue paint, of course).

What are your favorite Blue Man Group experiences at Universal Orlando Resort? Share it with us in the comments below!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando 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. 

Celebrate the Season at Disneyland with It’s a Small World Holiday

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Where better to celebrate the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort than on the happiest cruise that ever sailed? The façade at “it’s a small world” gets a festive makeover this time of year, featuring thousands of brilliant lights and a Santa hat atop the clock face. Filled to the brim with colorful characters and festive décor, “it’s a small world” Holiday offers seasons greetings from more than 300 children around the world. Sailing along these wondrous waterways, it’s easy to miss some of the smaller details. So, let’s hop in, sing along and look closer at some of the special elements of this beloved attraction.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Seasonal touches appear all around you as soon as your ship sets sail. The voyage begins in the northern regions, where snowflakes sparkle and letters addressed to Santa are scattered about. The distinct silhouette of Mr. Claus himself is visible in the upstairs window of a quaint snow-covered cottage.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Then, float over to Europe, where two ceremonial guards dressed in scarlet and gold await your arrival. On a perch adorned with holly and tinsel stands one of these two Yeoman Warders, protectors of the Tower of London commonly known as Beefeaters. In fact, Beefeaters themselves are often represented in Christmas ornaments and décor.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Soon, journey to Asia, where everything is completely decked out for Lunar New Year. Check out the vivid neon dragon positioned amongst fireworks, hand fans and celebratory drummers. Dragons are especially important this time of year, as the dragon dance has long been an essential part of Chinese festivals.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Passing through South America and Mexico, glance upwards to spot three familiar faces, the Three Caballeros! Donald Duck, José Carioca and Panchito play various musical instruments as piñatas twirl overhead. While these three best friends can be found at “it’s a small world” any time of year, be sure to catch them over at the limited-time Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party. There, they host the party from atop a colorful float adorned with streamers to celebrate the holidays, culture and friendship.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Faster than you can say “Mele Kalikimaka,” the Hawaiian phrase for “Merry Christmas,” your boat takes a turn towards the Pacific Islands. Mermaids joyfully sing “Jingle Shells,” their rendition of the famous holiday classic. Spot Ariel and two of her sisters, Adrina and Attina, swaying along to the music. Careful observers will notice the plate of fish beneath them, marked “for Santa.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Devoted Disney fans will remember how much Lilo & Stitch adore Elvis. For an extra special holiday touch, look out for an Elvis bobble head in front of the dynamic duo as the group catches a wave together.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The next section of the attraction truly captures the spirit of America. You are nearing home now, but keep your eyes peeled for a few furry friends! Every so often, gophers dressed in Santa hats pop out from a snowy knoll to say hello to visitors passing by. Across the way, look closely at the three Native Americans to discover an unexpected treat in their hands: popcorn! In fact, the practice of popping corn was common among Native Americans even hundreds of years ago.

This time of year especially, “it’s a small world” Holiday reminds us to appreciate our differences and unite in the bonds of song, friendship and happiness. Thanks for coming along with us on the happiest cruise that ever sailed, we wish you a very merry holiday season!

Seven Ways to Have a Stress Free Universal Orlando Vacation

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

Planning a vacation should be fun and easy, right? After all of the planning for a vacation, you probably want to know how to relax. Spending your hard-earned vacation at a theme park doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some tips for a stress free Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

  1. Stay on property to get free transportation to and from the parks: Don’t mess with traffic. Start the day off right with a leisurely ride on a Universal Orlando shuttle bus or water taxi and arrive right at the front gates.
  2. Stay on property and go to the resort for some pool time in the afternoon: Tired of walking? Feeling a little exhausted? Nothing a nap by the pool and a refreshing drink can’t fix!
  3. Plan a day at Universal’s Volcano Bay: The vibes at Universal Orlando’s new water theme park will always be chill. Grab a Private Cabana or float down the Kopiko Wai Winding River as you indulge in the ultimate forms of relaxation.
  4. Head for indoor attractions to enjoy air conditioning and seating: When your feet are tired and the Florida sun is a little too much, there is plenty to do indoors while you cool off. Try lounging in the lobby of Universal Studios Florida’s Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon or exploring the Discovery Center in Universal’s Islands of Adventure’s Jurassic Park.
  5. Pack a towel you can wet and put on your neck: You’d be surprised at how much your entire body cools down with this trick.
  6. Use The Official Universal Orlando Resort App to plan your day: Find wait times, ride information and more on this app while exploring on-the-go. You can even reserve a spot in our Virtual Line for the all-new Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon.
  7. Take a photo of your parking spot on your smartphone: Don’t stress over the prospect of walking for hours at the end of the day in search of your car. Simply keep a record of where it is on your phone. There is also a handy Parking Reminder section of the Universal Orlando Resort App where you can record your spot.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

What hacks do you like to use for a stress free Universal Orlando Resort vacation? Tell us in the comments below!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando 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. 

Kick Off 2019 with Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie Celebration at Disneyland

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

To commemorate 90 years of Mickey Mouse, the Disneyland Resort will kick off 2019 with Get Your Ears On – A Mickey and Minnie Celebration!

Starting January 2019, guests will be invited to the biggest celebration of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in Disneyland history. Get Your Ears On will celebrate the beloved Mickey and Minnie, with exciting new entertainment and décor at Disneyland park, plus limited-time food and beverage offerings and festive event merchandise.

Here’s how Disneyland will be celebrating:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Mickey’s Mix Magic”: The night will light up at Disneyland park with a new high-energy projection show, celebrating Mickey Mouse and creating a family-fun dance party atmosphere throughout the park. State-of-the-art projections, lighting and lasers will transform Main Street, U.S.A., the water screens of the Rivers of America and the façade of “it’s a small world” into a colorful, dazzling array of sights and sounds, with “DJ” Mickey spinning dance-tastic twists on favorite Disney melodies. And on select nights, “Mickey’s Mix Magic” will go sky high when the show is enhanced with the addition of fireworks. “Mickey’s Mix Magic,” will debut on Jan. 18.

“Mickey’s Soundsational Parade“: This popular parade returns with a rockin’ new opening to kick off the party—Mickey Mouse will lead the way in a new larger-than-life opening, inspired by classic Mickey pull toys. Chip ‘n’ Dale will arrive with a giant celebration cake, as Mickey leads a whimsical musical procession of Disney characters. “Mickey’s Soundsational Parade” returns to Disneyland park on Jan. 25.

Valentine’s Month: Celebrate the love of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse during Valentine’s month! Disneyland park will feature lovely, festive Valentine’s décor, including a new Mickey Mouse flower “portrait” on Main Street, U.S.A. Guests may also choose to partake in Minnie’s Valentine Surprise, a special scavenger hunt experience in Disneyland park. Once guests have purchased a commemorative map and stickers at select merchandise locations, they may search for the hidden valentines that Minnie has left for Mickey around the park. Valentine’s Month at Disneyland park kicks off Jan. 22 through Feb. 18.

Food, beverage, merchandise and more: Specialty food, beverage, novelty items and merchandise will be available for a limited time, including “classic” Mickey- and Minnie-shaped foods with new festive twists, exclusive Get Your Ears On-themed treats and Valentine-inspired specialty items. In addition, limited edition celebration merchandise will be available for all ages, including apparel, pins, plush, and of course, Mickey and Minnie ears.

Join us at the Disneyland Resort as we celebrate 90 years of magic with the legendary duo that started it all!

Five Ways to Celebrate the New Year and Ring in 2019 at Disney World

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Five Ways to Celebrate the New Year and Ring in 2019 at Disney World

Looking for a great way to ring in the New Year? We’ve got you covered! From dancing and dining to midnight toasts and fireworks, there’s a whole host of celebrations happening at Walt Disney World Resort to help you celebrate the New Year and ring in 2019 at Disney World!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Year’s Eve at Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk

If you’re looking for a night full of family, friends, and elegance, then Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk is the New Year’s event for you! Celebrate with a multi-course, prix fixe menu with dishes such as Aged Cognac Lobster Bisque, Wild Alaskan King Blue Crab, Chilean Sea Bass, and more. For dessert, you’ll love the Cocoa Beach (chocolate hazelnut cake with warm ganache) or the Florida Sunset (vanilla custard with lemon broth, segmented fruits, and white chocolate).

This event is available for booking via phone only. To book an available seating, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. And for more info on this event, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Year’s Eve Bash at Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s BoardWalk

For tons of fun and a swinging late-night party, you should definitely come on out to Atlantic Dance Hall for the New Year’s Eve Bash! Kick off the brand-new year with rockin’ music, tasty treats, and a dash of Disney magic as you count down to midnight. This festive holiday celebration includes fabulous views of the Epcot fireworks, a live DJ, party hats and horns, a mouthwatering light-bite menu, two beverage vouchers, and a Champagne toast at midnight. On the menu is assorted antipasto and charcuterie, cheeseburger spring rolls, pork pot stickers, vegetable samosa, a create-your-own slider and taco bar, and a dip station including veggies, chips and salsa, pretzel bites, assorted flatbreads, and more. For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll enjoy a selection of desserts including mini-cupcakes and macarons.

Guests must be 21 and older with a valid ID to attend this event. This event is available for booking via phone only. To make reservations for this event, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. And for more info, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Special New Year’s Eve Dining at Monsieur Paul at Epcot

Make a visit to the France pavilion at Epcot for an experience to remember at Monsieur Paul! This acclaimed gourmet restaurant will be open for lunch on Dec. 31, 2018. For this special lunch, Monsieur Paul presents braised ribs with bordelaise sauce, roasted halibut with beurre blanc sauce, roast turkey, and more. There is also still some limited availability for the 8:45 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. dinner seatings. Don’t forget to browse the delectable list of appetizers and side dishes, as well as a special New Year’s Eve dessert that will give you sweet memories throughout 2019!

For more info, seating times, and to make reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 to book an available seating or visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

New Year’s Eve Dinner at World Show Place Pavilion at Epcot

On Dec. 31, bid adieu to 2018 at the World Show Place pavilion where a wonderful New Year’s Eve dinner buffet awaits you. Start your meal with a selection of savory soups and a selection of salads, including an amazing antipasto salad with basil, grilled vegetable and bean salad, roasted Ruskin tomato basil soup, and creamy seafood-and-corn chowder. A smorgasbord of enticing entrees is guaranteed to please any palate – from seafood mac and cheese with butter-toasted panko and fried chicken breast with corn gravy to gluten-friendly options like oven baked cod with tomatoes, olives and peppers, demi braised beef with mushrooms and pearl onions and apple cider brined pork with roasted apples and cherries. Kids can dig into chicken fritters, meatballs with red sauce and other tasty plates. Don’t forget to save room for an incredible selection of desserts – fresh cut fruit with berries, key lime raspberry glitter tarts, snow-dusted hazelnut-stuffed chocolate Bundt cakes, assorted cookies, cheesecakes and macarons and much more. Enjoy every morsel while listening to classic Disney tunes, then strike a pose by any of the unique vignettes for a fun photo op commemorating the occasion!

For more info and to make reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 to book an available seating or visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Beach Dessert Party

There’s a party goin’ on at Clementine’s Beach on New Year’s Eve, and you won’t want to miss it! Kick off your evening at the beach with delectable sweets and eats including an assortment of yummy desserts, seasonal fruits, flavorful cheese, and refreshments including beer and wine. You’ll also have to opportunity to watch the stunning Magic Kingdom fireworks display from across Seven Seas Lagoon and toast to the New Year at midnight.

For more info and to make reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463 or visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

Top 12 Toys and Tricks to Find at Weasleys Wizard Wheezes

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley has many shops that long-time Harry Potter fans dream of visiting.

Most fans know the name of this infamous store; but for those who don’t, allow me to introduce you to Weasleys Wizard Wheezes: the joke shop founded by Fred and George Weasley. These unpredictable twins had a lifelong dream of opening a place to share their fun creations with all witches and wizards.

Some of the products are widely known, but there are many that the common Muggle may not be familiar with. Take a look at this list of 12 popular items you can find at this one-of-a-kind shop!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

 1. Fever Fudge, Puking Pastilles, U-No-Poo, Fainting Fancies and Nosebleed Nougat

This range of sweets has been useful in getting students out of class for years at Hogwarts. Each sweet will give the user a different symptom such as fever, vomit, unconsciousness, or a nosebleed. You can pick the one you want to try or experience a variety of them with the Skiving Snackbox.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

2. Screaming Yo-yo

The name definitely shrieks for itself with this magical toy. Its distracting screams can be heard from across the room!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

3. Decoy Detonator

This popular item is typically used to create a diversion in a time of need. You’ve actually seen it in action before in the film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallow: Part 1. Once dropped, there’s no way to catch it!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

4. Love Potion

This powerful brew doesn’t need much of an explanation. Give it to the person you desire and see the magic happen yourself.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

5. Chattering Teeth

Wind it up and the conversation will never stop!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

6. Extendable Ear

Looking to eavesdrop? Get an Extendable Ear to listen to any quiet conversation from up to 12 feet away. Make sure your cat doesn’t eat it though… Yes, we’re talking about you, Crookshanks.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

7. Boxing Telescope

I wouldn’t suggest taking a peek through this telescope. The Boxing Telescope is said to land a punch on whoever squeezes it, but we would never confirm or deny it.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

8. Pink Elephant

This may look easy, but it only took twenty tries. Keep you and your friends easily entertained by seeing how many attempts it takes to perfectly flip this toy to land on its feet.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

9. Duck on Bike

There’s an assortment of Muggle toys inside the shop as a tribute to the twins’ father, Arthur. He was fascinated with Muggle artifacts, so there are a few vintage toys you can get like the Duck on Bike, Elephant on Bike and Robot Lilliput.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

10. Pygmy Puff

These furry little creatures are one of the Weasleys’ most popular bestsellers. They come in different shades of pink and purple, can be found in three different sizes and you may even get one that purrs! There’s also a fun naming ceremony for each Pygmy Puff that gets adopted.  The giant bell in the store is rung to announce the adoption and the new owner gets to tell everyone the name they chose.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

11. Fanged Flyer

This type of Frisbee is just as fun as any other… as long as it is used with caution. The Fanged Flyer gets upset when you pet its teeth, which is why the handler’s glove is included with your purchase.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort)

12. Cycling Dolores Umbridge

Last, but certainly not least, is the toy everyone loves to hate. Turn it on and watch her go!

These items (and many more) can all be found in Weasleys Wizard Wheezes at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.

Which item from Weasleys Wizard Wheezes is a must-have for you during your next visit? Let us know in the comments!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando 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. 

2019 Epcot International Festival of the Arts to Offer 39 Days of Artful Fun

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

You can kick off 2019 with the return of the 2019 Epcot International Festival of the Arts – a 39-day celebration of visual, culinary and performing arts from around the world. Beginning January 18 and running through February 25, 2019 the festival offers artful activities for the entire family, from special entertainment and interactive workshops to immersive art experiences and world-class cuisine.

New in 2019, guests can now sing along to their favorite Disney Broadway tunes seven days a week during the popular Disney on Broadway Concert Series, with daily showings at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Each week, different pairs of Disney on Broadway stars will take the America Gardens Theatre stage to sing favorite songs from award-winning Disney on Broadway productions. The lineup will rotate regularly, featuring music from shows such as “The Lion King,” “Frozen” and “Beauty and the Beast”:

  • Kerry Butler (“Beauty and the Beast”) and Kevin Massey (“Tarzan”)
  • Meredith Inglesby (“The Little Mermaid”) and Steve Blanchard (“Beauty and the Beast”)
  • Arielle Jacobs and Adam Jacobs (“Aladdin”)
  • Heidi Blickenstaff (“Freaky Friday”) and Gavin Lee (“Mary Poppins”)
  • Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”) and Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)
  • Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White (“The Lion King”)

The concert series is included with park admission; reserved seating is available by booking a Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Package, which allows guests to make a breakfast, lunch or dinner reservation at a participating Epcot restaurant and later enjoy priority seating at a show. Dining package reservations open Nov. 8, and for more information, visit Disneyworld.com or call 407-939-3463.

Speaking of food … Epcot International Festival of the Arts will feature 13 Food Studios, plus other creative (and savory!) offerings around Epcot with an expanded menu of tastes and sips. Drop by The Artist’s Table for beef wellington with mushroom bordelaise, fennel cream and roasted baby vegetables, or enjoy smoked salmon and cream gâteau with egg yolk cream, paddlefish caviar and micro-herbs at The Painter’s Palate. Pop Eats! will serve up almond frangipane cake with raspberry and chocolate, while red wine-braised short rib with parsnip purée, broccolini, baby tomatoes and aged balsamic will be available at Cuisine Classique.

Guests will also find activities to the inspire artists of all ages. Here are a few fun highlights planned for the 2019 Epcot International Festival of the Arts:

  • Everyone’s invited to grab a paintbrush and help create a wall mural along World Showcase Plaza.
  • At the Artful Photo Opportunities, you can step inside masterworks of art and take photos with friends.
  • The Paint with a Disney Artist program invites guests to learn under the tutelage of a professional (offered select Fridays and Sundays, including continental breakfast, for an additional fee).
  • Performing artists are scheduled throughout the festival, demonstrating gravity-defying feats of strength, acrobatics and many other skills.
  • International musical and variety acts will share their talents with guests, including the return of Bodh’aktan to the Canada stage and Delta Q, a new group performing in Germany.
  • Guests can join in the fun of Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt by purchasing a map at select merchandise locations.
  • A variety of workshops led by professionals will teach different artistic techniques, such as floral design, ink and paint, mixed-media art and more (offered Friday-Monday for an additional fee). As a memento of what they learn, guests will take their creations home with them. Details on workshop registration
    will be released soon.
  • Complimentary 30-minute seminars will give guests helpful instruction for producing their own artwork at home.

Now, more than ever is the time to start planning your visit to the 2019 Epcot International Festival of the Arts.