Tag Archives: Disney World

BaseLine Tap House Coming to Grand Avenue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Debuting this fall, the new Grand Avenue area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is being re-imagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to capture the spirit of present-day Downtown Los Angeles, showing vintage office buildings and warehouses representing the different vibrant districts and cultures of the city. One prominent hot spot to spring up is the BaseLine Tap House, a cheerful corner pub specializing in beer and wines from California.

In a quaint brick building, BaseLine Tap House celebrates the revitalization of Downtown Los Angeles by paying homage to the building’s former life as the Figueroa Printing Company, a mom-and-pop print house that had ties to the Disney studios in nearby Burbank. The space retains many of its cool architectural and mechanical details with exposed walls and old printing equipment and artifacts, blending the past and present in an inviting space. Outside is a charming tree-shaded terrace, perfect for a relaxing break in the day.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

California craft ales, lagers and cider will be the stars of the drink menu. You won’t want to miss California wines on tap along with specialty cocktails, either. A gourmet non-alcoholic lemonade and soda on tap will round out the drink selection.

If you’re feeling hungry, be sure to try one of the small bites, including a Bavarian pretzel with mustard and beer-cheese fondue, spiced almonds or a charcuterie board featuring California cheeses.

Are you excited to visit the new BaseLine Tap House when it opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

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. 

Back to School 2017 Shopping at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Before you know it, the first day of school will be here. So today, we’re visiting Disney Springs for a first look at some “must have” back to school 2017 items and accessories to make this year extra magical.

At Disney Springs, finding a great school outfit is easy. Levi’s has a large selection of kids’ clothing, and offers custom tailoring, hemming and embroidery to help create a comfortable, unique look. Also, UNIQLO is packed with back to school essentials and has a variety of Disney-inspired clothing to show off your favorite character in style.

There are also some great deals on school outfits at Disney Springs. Superdry is offering $50 off your purchase of $200 or more August 18 through September 5, and when you spend more than $100 at Shore, you’ll receive a drawstring backpack August 18 through August 20.

For more back to school staples, check out Columbia SportswearVolcom and LACOSTE.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Finding a perfect backpack is simple at Disney Springs. CURL by Sammy Duvall has a variety of Disney-inspired Jansport backpacks. And Vera Bradley and Kipling in the Town Center also have backpacks and bags in a wide assortment of styles and colors. Both locations offer custom embroidery on all products, including pencil cases, lunchboxes, and more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Need accessories? World of Disney is now offering an impressive assortment of pens, pencils, notebooks, and tablet cases. Francescas also has a fun selection of back to school items as well as a variety of stylish jewelry and accessories.

If you’re looking for shades, be sure to stop by Sunglass ICON and APEX by Sunglass Hut. Both are offering $40 off a second pair of polarized glasses when you purchase one full-priced pair. Edward Beiner, a location that can fill your eyeglass prescription in-store, is another great option to eyewear – offering the latest lens and frame styles for all ages.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

You can “pair” your new school outfit with a perfect pair of socks at the World of Disney or sock-specialty store Stance, carrying DisneyStar Wars, and Marvel-inspired collections for your feet.

Specialty footwear retailers Sperry and UGG are offering promotions during the back to school shopping season. Visit Sperry for 30% off select styles, now through August 18. At UGG, enjoy complimentary customization up to $20 on any purchase of Kids’ Classic II product. Fit2Run, the Runners Superstore and Melissa Shoes both offer Disney character-inspired footwear selections to complete your first day of school outfit.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

College-bound students looking to fill their toiletries bags should stop by Basin. The store is offering $10 off when you purchase a body butter, scrub, and three bath bombs together from August 4 through 6. And Sugarboo & Co. has all of your dorm essentials. When you purchase any pillow August 11 through 20, you can purchase a second one at half off.

If you build up an appetite during back to school shopping, Wolfgang Puck Express in the Marketplace is offering a free kids meal with the purchase of one adult entrée from August 4 through August 13. If you’re looking for some refreshing sorbetto, Vivoli il Gelato in the Landing will cool your palate with their seasonal pineapple, watermelon and cherry flavors. And stopping by Ghirardelli is the perfect way to enjoy that end-of-summer sundae, as well as satisfy that sweet tooth.

Check out Disney Springs for your back to school 2017 shopping and share your favorites with us using #DisneySprings on Twitter and Instagram.

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. 

Mission Space Will Relaunch at Epcot on August 13, 2017 with New Experiences

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re a thrill seeker, one of your favorite attractions at Epcot may be Mission: SPACE. Mission Space gives you the feeling of lifting off into outer space and gives you an incredible view of the Earth as it appears from outer space. Many guests love the authentic, NASA-style training and space travel aboard the Mission Space “rocket.”

Although Mission Space has been closed for refurbishment since the beginning of June, it will officially relaunch on August 13, 2017 with a brand new experience and an enhanced version of the “classic” Mission: SPACE.

  • If you think you’ve got “the right stuff,” take on the Orange Mission for a truly intense experience that lets you feel the force of an actual space launch en route to Mars. On this mission, you’ll dodge meteoroids, slingshot around the moon and attempt a precision landing on the Red Planet’s alien surface. This “mission” has been enhanced with new, HD video to make it even clearer – I can’t imagine!
  • Or, embark on the more family-friendly Green Mission – a new mission that takes you on an exciting orbit around Earth. On this amazing new adventure, you’ll take in sites like the Hawaiian Islands, Italy’s “boot” and the Northern Lights—as seen from space, of course—before finally landing at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. No matter which mission you choose, it’ll be a journey that’s totally out of this world.

In addition to all the “mission” updates, Walt Disney Imagineering has also made this attraction MORE family-friendly. Younger astronauts will now have the opportunity to ride because the height restriction will be changed for the Green Mission side with the addition of new X-2 booster seats in order to allow children 40-44” to ride.

Do you prefer to experience the Orange Mission or Green Mission on Mission Space? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

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. 

Incredible Photo Opportunities and Magic Shots in Pandora- The World of Avatar

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Incredible Photo Opportunities and Magic Shots in Pandora- The World of Avatar

Expeditions to Pandora – The World of Avatar have begun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

When you’re not trekking among mountains, drifting down a Pandoran River deep into the bioluminescent rainforest, or soaring on the back of a mountain banshee, you’ll find the striking beauty of Pandora offers many locations to take photos of your interplanetary travel.

Disney PhotoPass Service photographers are placed in the best locations in Pandora – The World of Avatar to capture your entire group’s adventure into this exotic world. There are some incredible photo opportunities and magic shots in Pandora – The World of Avatar that you won’t want to miss on your visit!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney PhotoPass photographers are also able to capture a number of Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots in Pandora featuring some of your favorite Pandoran inhabitants. Check them out below!

When you visit a PhotoPass photographer in front of the floating mountains during daylight hours, you’ll have the opportunity to include a banshee in your photo.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In the evening, PhotoPass photographers can capture a woodsprite floating into your photos in both a Magic Shot and Animated Magic Shot:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Remember, Animated Magic Shots can only be downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement, which allows you to take home all of your Disney PhotoPass photos and videos from your Walt Disney World Resort vacation for one price.

Enjoy your adventure!

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. 

Full List of Announcements Made for Disney Parks at D23 Expo 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney hosted the D23 Expo 2017 last week and made many exciting announcements about the future of Disney Parks and Resorts. There are a number of changes and additions planned for Disney Parks and Resorts from an opening date for Toy Story Land, a new Star Wars hotel, three new ships coming to Disney Cruise Line, and so much more. Here is a recap of the plans announced at D23 Expo 2017:

Walt Disney World Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Toy Story Land to Open at Walt Disney World Resort in Summer 2018: In 2018, you’ll find yourself shrunk to the size of a toy to explore the world of Andy’s backyard with your favorite Toy Story characters, including Woody and Buzz, in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Toy Story Land will feature two attractions, Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. Slinky Dog Dash will be a family coaster attraction where you’ll zip, dodge and dash around many turns and drops that Andy has created to really make Slinky and his coils stretch to his limits. Alien Swirling Saucers was designed as a toy play set that Andy got from Pizza Planet, inspired by the first “Toy Story” film. Aliens are flying around in their toy flying saucers and trying to capture your rocket toy vehicle with “The Claw.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Star Wars-Inspired Themed Resort Coming to Walt Disney World Resort: According to Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, this revolutionary new vacation experience will be a living adventure that allows guests to immerse themselves in an entirely new form of Disney storytelling.

“It’s unlike anything that exists today.” Bob said. “From the second you arrive, you will become a part of a Star Wars story! You’ll immediately become a citizen of the galaxy and experience all that entails, including dressing up in the proper attire. Once you leave Earth, you will discover a starship alive with characters, stories, and adventures that unfold all around you. It is 100% immersive, and the story will touch every single minute of your day, and it will culminate in a unique journey for every person who visits.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

First Mickey- Themed Ride-Through Attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios: A new attraction featuring international icon Mickey Mouse is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort! On Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, you’ll step through the movie screen and join Mickey and his friends like never before. The attraction will put you inside the wacky and unpredictable world of a Mickey Mouse Cartoon Short where you’re the star and anything can happen. This zany out-of-control adventure features surprising twists and turns, dazzling visual effects and mind-boggling transformations that happen before your very eyes. In order to begin to prepare the new home of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at the Chinese Theatre in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, August 13, 2017 will be the final day of operation for The Great Movie Ride presented by Turner Classic Movies.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney Skyliner to Transport Guests Around Walt Disney World Resort: A brand new transportation system is coming to the Walt Disney World Resort to add even more magic to your future vacation experiences. The Disney Skyliner will soon give guests a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort. The transportation system will connect Disney’s Art of AnimationPop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts and other locations with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. And many of the gondolas with Disney Skyliner will feature favorite Disney characters.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Tron Attraction Coming to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort: Tron – the highest-rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland– is coming to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida! The new Tron attraction will sit in an entirely new area right next to the Space Mountain attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. The TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders board a train of two-wheeled Lightcycles. It offers access into the energy, lights and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe and is one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Guardians of the Galaxy Replacing Universe of Energy in Epcot: A “Guardians of the Galaxy”-inspired attraction will be added to Future World, adhering to the original vision of Epcot’s Future World as the place to experience the excitement and adventure offered by space travel. Epcot’s brand new E-ticket attraction will be based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and is the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at the Walt Disney World Resort. Epcot just may be the perfect place for a “Guardians”-inspired attraction as you can see in the photo above – Peter Quill (aka Star Lord) actually visited Epcot as a kid! (Note: This new attraction will replace the current Universe of Energy attraction, which will close August 13, 2017).

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Ratatouille Attraction Coming to The France Pavilion in Epcot: A Disney•Pixar’s “Ratatouille”-inspired attraction will be added to the France Pavilion in World Showcase. The attraction will expand the pavilion. Similar to the 4-D attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure that opened at the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2014, guests will be able to shrink to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Minnie Vehicle Service Begins in July at Walt Disney World Resort:new transportation service featuring vehicles themed to the one-and-only Minnie Mouse will soon be taking you everywhere you want to go at the Walt Disney World Resort. Starting later this month, guests at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts will be able to arrange their own private Disney vehicle right from their smartphone. It’ll be simple to do. Just arrange a Minnie vehicle and a Disney cast member will arrive and drive you anywhere you wish at the Resort in a magical way that only Disney can do.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Space Restaurant to Offer “Out of this World” Dining Experience at Epcot: Disney will be creating a new restaurant at Epcot that’ll offer amazing meals with spectacular views high above Earth – from space! The restaurant, which will be located adjacent to the park’s Mission: SPACE attraction, will invite guests to travel into space for amazing dining experiences in the stars.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Theater Inspired by Kansas City’s Willis Wood Theater to Debut at Walt Disney World Resort: A new venue for world-class entertainment is coming to Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. If the image of the theater looks familiar, that’s because the new entertainment venue will be based on the iconic Willis Wood theater in 1920s Kansas City, where Walt lived after he left Marceline. And as you can see from the design, it’ll fit well right off Main Street, U.S.A.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Announced as Name for Star Wars Lands at Disney Parks: The official name of the Star Wars-inspired lands that are currently under construction at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, will both be called Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. These new areas 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.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

One attraction will make you feel like you’re on a Star Destroyer inside a hangar bay. The second attraction will give guests the opportunity to fly the Millenium Falcon, piloting the ship, shooting blasters or preparing for hyperspace – all while completing a critical mission. But how you perform on the mission holds even bigger stakes: perform with skill and you may earn extra galactic credits, while bringing the ship back banged up could put you on the list of a bounty hunter. End up on Harkos’s list and you may face a problem if you show up at the local cantina!

Guests will also encounter many familiar faces inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including BB-8, Chewbacca, members of the First Order and – among many others – Rex, the troublesome pilot you may remember from the previous version of a certain Disney attraction who takes on a new role in this land as the DJ at the cantina. And speaking of the cantina, here guests will be able to try unique concoctions like blue milk. Nearby, they’ll also be able to acquire trinkets and treasures from across the galaxy.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in 2019, first at the Disneyland Resort and later in the year at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Disneyland Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Immersive Super Hero Experience Coming to Disney California Adventure Park: Soon, the Guardians of the Galaxy will be joined by Spider-Man and the Avengers in what will become a completely immersive Super Hero universe at Disney California Adventure Park. These new stories will build on the success of the new and already popular Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT! and create a place where you can team up with your favorite Super Heroes like never before.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Pixar Pier to Bring Favorite Pixar Stories to Life at Disney California Adventure Park: In 2018, more of your favorite Pixar stories will come to Disney California Adventure park with the new Pixar Pier. Pixar Pier will feature a brand-new look for the area now known as Paradise Pier, as some of your favorite characters come to life on this seaside waterfront. You will discover whimsical neighborhoods filled with your friends from “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out” and even more of your pals from “Toy Story.”

This permanent addition to the park will open during a new limited-time celebration taking place throughout the Disneyland Resort in 2018 — Pixar Fest! Experience the magical worlds of Pixar in brand new ways as the entire resort comes alive with some of your favorite stories.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Limited Time Pixar Fest Celebration Coming throughout Disneyland Resort: At Disneyland park, Pixar Fest will feature a brand-new fireworks spectacular as well as the return of the guest favorite, Pixar Play Parade. The popular “Paint the Night” parade will also return — this time, to Disney California Adventure park! There may even be a new float joining this already amazing nighttime parade.

Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney Cruise Line Adding Three New Ships in 2021, 2022, and 2023Disney Cruise Line is planning not two, but three new ships in the next phase of expansion. By the time these three ships are sailing, Disney will have nearly doubled the size of their fleet, which means that more families than ever before will be visiting spectacular destinations around the globe and creating magical memories at sea! All three ships are going to be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany with scheduled completion dates of 2021, 2022, and 2023.

All ship names, design plans and itineraries are still in development, with each of the ships expected to have their own unique experiences. The three new ships will be powered by clean-burning liquefied natural gas and be the same size – approximately 135,000 gross tons with about 1,250 guest staterooms planned – which is slightly larger than the newest Disney Cruise Line ships, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

Disneyland Paris

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disneyland Paris Brings Favorite Marvel Characters to Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel: Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel is coming to Disneyland Paris! Disney is planning a “reImagination” of the Disney’s Hotel New York into a new Marvel-themed wonderland. Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel will transport guests to the action-packed, inspiring world of Super Heroes including Iron Man, The Avengers, and Spider Man among others!

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. 

Celebrate Christmas in July at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

For the first time in 2017, the holidays will begin a bit early at Walt Disney World Resort with the celebration of Christmas in July at Disney Springs. Beginning July 15 through July 30, 2017, you can start searching for the perfect Holiday gift throughout the Disney Springs Marketplace while experiencing special holiday-themed treats, merchandise and entertainment offerings.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

In July, The Art of Disney is featuring holiday inspired art with artist meet and greets, Dockside Margaritas is pouring the Snowflake Margarita, and Disney’s Days of Christmas is hosting a special meet and greet with Santa – dressed for the Florida heat. “Summer Santa” will be on hand for photographs 1:00pm to 10:00pm.

For this limited-time Disney Springs celebration, a DJ will be spinning Christmas-beats and Enjoy Your Face will be celebrating with holiday face painting designs. Even the Disney Springs fountains will be decked for the season.

Also, Starbucks in the Marketplace is offering their holiday themed drinks and you can stock up on sweets at Goofy’s Candy Company or Disney’s Candy Cauldron, featuring peppermint bark and gingerbread cookies. You’ll also find a few holiday-themed treats, including Santa Mickey and Minnie specialty apples and krispy treats, to delight children of all ages. Head over to AristoCrepes to indulge in a gingerbread crepe.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The special events continue in July with UNIQLO celebrating their 1-year anniversary with a Japanese Night Market inspired celebration. Now through July 30, 2017, guests can experience a taste of a traditional Japanese night market, complete with prize-winning games, special photo opportunities, origami and calligraphy classes, and more. This event is a first of its kind at UNIQLO, and special activities run from 7:00pm to 11:00pm daily. Visit UNIQLO’s event page event page for more information.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

And, if you’re looking for a spot to relax before checking out the nighttime entertainment, multiple venues have enhanced their daily drink special offerings. Throughout the month of July, the bar located inside the House of Blues Restaurant & Bar will offer drink specials daily, from 11:30am to 5:00pm. STK Orlando recently rolled out daily drink specials, and now Joffrey’s Tea Traders has also joined in on the fun. Stop by Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s in the Landing between 4:00pm and 7:00pm daily to try discounted “spiked specialties,” including the Kahlua-Tini and Frozen Cappuccino with Bailey’s.

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. 

Three Exciting New Years Eve 2017 Celebrations at Disney World

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Three Exciting New Years Eve 2017 Celebrations at Disney World

Reservations open July 11 for three New Years Eve 2017 celebrations at Disney World which offer ways to ring in the New Year at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. These experiences are part of the Enchanting Extras Collection, which gives guests “can’t-miss” experiences that enhance the Walt Disney World experience.

Disney Countdown to Midnight

For an evening of dining and dancing, “Disney Countdown to Midnight” includes delightful dining, live music, libations and more. An interactive band and DJ will fill the dance floor (and we hear that Mickey and Minnie may make a special appearance). Then welcome in 2018 with a flute of bubbly and a viewing of those legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks in the Magic Kingdom.

Hours are 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom. This party is designed for guests 18 and older.

Pixar Party: A New Year’s Eve Celebration

“Pixar Party: A New Year’s Eve Celebration” is for children of all ages, a family-friendly way to ring in the New Year with a Disney•Pixar-inspired dinner.

Sarge welcomes you to the Ballroom of the Americas that features vignettes of beloved Pixar movies. From Andy’s Room in “Toy Story” to and Metro City with The Incredibles, the immersive celebration will include theatrical backdrops, dramatic set pieces and fun props that re-create the fantastic worlds of the Pixar films. And, of course, favorite characters will be on hand from “Toy Story,” “The Incredibles,” “Cars” and “Up.”

Kids can have fun at Pixar face painting, a balloon artist and a boot camp with Sarge, while an interactive DJ will spin hits from Radio Disney (he’s going to be in a “Cars”-inspired DJ rig from Radiator Springs). Dinner is buffet style.

At midnight, head outdoors to ring in the New Year with a viewing of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Hours are 8 p.m.-12:15 a.m.

Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience

Fine dining is the theme of the third party, “Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience” in the Grand Republic Ballroom. Inspired by the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog,” the room is beautifully decorated French Quarter style to transport you to the Big Easy.

Actions stations will feature flavors such as oyster beignets, smoked salmon mousse cones with caviar, Kobe beef tartare and sheep’s milk ricotta gnocchi. Signature dishes will include herb-crusted Louisiana redfish, crayfish etouffee, Black Angus beef cooked two ways, braised short ribs and filet of beef with truffled celery root silk.

A N’awlins jazz band will entertain during dinner, joined later in the evening by a vocalist who will bring to life the Academy-Award-winning classics from the film. Then slip outside with a glass of bubbly just before midnight to ring in 2018 with a private viewing area for the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Hours are 7 p.m.-12:15 a.m.

For reservations for any of these New Years Eve 2017 celebrations at Disney World, call 407-WDW-DINE.

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. 

Fourth of July 2017 Disney World Celebrations and Festivities

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Independence Day is coming up, and the parks at Walt Disney World Resort are planning to celebrate our nation’s birthday with some star-spangled salutes to America!

If you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort for the fourth of July 2017 Disney World celebrations, here are some highlights of the special entertainment planned for that day:

  • Magic Kingdom Park – “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” rockets into the air above – and all around – the park. This special, fireworks spectacular will be presented two nights in a row, at 9 p.m. on both July 3 and 4. You can also rock out each night to DJ dance parties in Tomorrowland and Frontierland, each a great location from which to catch the fireworks!
  • Epcot – On July 4, enjoy special evening concerts of great American songs by Voices of Liberty at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the America Gardens Theater. Throughout the day, you can also meet Mickey and the gang in patriotic attire outside The American Adventure, and at 9 p.m. that night “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” joins the celebration with the addition of a heart-pounding, all-American grand finale!
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Spend the Fourth celebrating some of the great icons of American popular culture at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, with “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters” at 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m., the all-new “Disney Movie Magic” experience at 9 p.m. and “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” which takes to the skies at 9:30 p.m. with fireworks, lasers, projection effects and more!

Looks like the fourth of July 2017 Disney World celebrations are going to be a blast all across Walt Disney World Resort.

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. 

Candlelight Processional 2017 Dining Packages Now Available

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Candlelight Processional is always a popular holiday event at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort. As a part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional presents the traditional story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. Even with three shows held every night beginning Thanksgiving weekend, it is always hard to find a seat for these incredible performances which is why the Candlelight Processional 2017 dining packages can be invaluable!

Candlelight Processional dining packages include a meal at a participating delicious restaurant in or around Epcot and then reserved seating for one of the three shows that evening. Candlelight Processional 2017 dining packages are available with the Disney dining plan for two table service credits.

Newcomers to the celebrity narrator spotlight this year include Daytime Television Legend Pat Sajak and TV star CCH Pounder, who was recently at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for the Grand Opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Returning favorites include television, film and stage superstar Neil Patrick Harris, country megastar Trace Adkins and Contemporary Christian music artist Jaci Velasquez.

Here are the Candlelight Processional 2017 narrators confirmed so far:*

  • Nov. 24- Dec. 3 – To Be Announced
  • Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak
  • Dec. 6-14 – To Be Announced
  • Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins
  • Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris
  • Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder
  • Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez
  • Dec. 28-30 – To Be Announced

The Candlelight processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the America Gardens Theatre. These Candleight Processional 2017 dining packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

As with last year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite restaurants in and near Epcot again this year like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and The Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort,** with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $35 plus tax per person for adults and $21 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $44 plus tax per person for adults and $15.50 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

Holidays Around the World is an extravaganza of holiday entertainment, merchandise, food, beverages and festivities where guests can celebrate at Epcot throughout the holiday season. Time-honored traditions come alive through the sights and sounds of the countries of World Showcase, and live performances enliven the park throughout the day.

Click here to book Candlelight Processional 2017 dining packages or to find out more information, call
407/ WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

Holidays Around the World, including the Candlelight Processional, runs November 24 – December 30, 2017 at Epcot.

*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Epcot admission is required and not included in the dining package price.

**  (NOTE: Captain’s Grille is currently under refurbishment. Candlelight Packages will be available once it reopens.)

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. 

Cool Off with Frozen Summer Games at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Frozen Summer Games have officially returned to Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park for another summer of fun!

In addition to the return of the games, families can now meet the team captains, Kristoff or Olaf, near the Beach Haus merchandise shop! Disney’s Blizzard Beach is the only location at Walt Disney World Resort where guests can meet Kristoff, so be sure to take the opportunity to say hello to the “Frozen” star.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Meeting a few of your “Frozen” friends is the perfect way to kick off the Frozen Summer Games, where once again guests visiting Blizzard Beach can join Team Kristoff or Team Olaf to participate in a variety of friendly competitions, including Ice Pail Relays, Ski Pole Limbo and Slide Races.

With family activities, crafts and a DJ playing the “coolest” hits, you’ll definitely want to check out the Frozen Summer Games when you visit Disney’s Blizzard Beach. And with the weather heating up, this is a really fun way to “chill” out!

What Frozen Summer Games activity are you most excited about? Tell us in the comments.

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.