Disney Starlight Parade Soft Opening Tonight at the Magic Kingdom

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July 18, 2025

Disney World Annual Pass Reservations Fully Booked for Magic Kingdom on Disney Starlight Parade Premiere Date

Disney Starlight Parade Music Coming to potify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music

Disney Starlight Parade Shines Bright with Soft Opening Tonight at Magic Kingdom

Excitement is building at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom as Disney has officially confirmed the soft opening of its highly anticipated new nighttime parade, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” tonight, July 18. This marks the first opportunity for guests to experience the magical procession before its official debut on July 20.

“Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” represents a significant return for Magic Kingdom, bringing a nighttime parade back to the park after a nearly decade-long hiatus. The parade promises a breathtaking spectacle featuring floats inspired by beloved Disney stories, including Encanto, Disney Princesses and Princes, Moana, Coco, Wish, Peter Pan, and Frozen.

Further details, revealed in an episode of “We Call it Imagineering,” highlight an original character joining the Disney family: Whimsy, a charming train engine that will serve as the parade’s grand finale float. The creative team has also woven in nostalgic elements, with new animation of Jiminy Cricket paying homage to the classic “Spectromagic” parade. Guests can also look forward to brand-new costumes for all performers and a captivating musical score that incorporates references to past Magic Kingdom nighttime parades. Even Mickey Mouse and his pals will be sporting fresh, starry blue costumes for the occasion.

Tonight’s soft opening, scheduled for 9 p.m. in Magic Kingdom, is described as a full dress rehearsal with an audience, indicating that guests can expect to see the complete parade with all floats and performers. The procession will follow its announced route, commencing at the front of Main Street, U.S.A., and concluding in Frontierland.

While the official release does not explicitly mention a second performance tonight, “Disney Starlight” is slated to have two nightly performance times upon its official debut. To accommodate this, Magic Kingdom’s closing time will be extended to 11:00 p.m. starting July 20, 2025.

Elegance Meets Adorableness: Discover the Exclusive Minnie Mouse Polka Dot Pearl Mini Backpack!

By

Ana Leal

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July 18, 2025

Elegance Meets Adorableness: Discover the Exclusive Minnie Mouse Polka Dot Pearl Mini Backpack!

This isn’t your average Minnie Mouse mini backpack, folks! Get ready to embrace an elegant polka dot moment with Loungefly’s exclusive Minnie Mouse Polka Dot Pearl Mini Backpack, available now at Loungefly.com for $90.

This little beauty is absolutely covered in classic black and white polka dots, giving it a timeless yet playful vibe. And of course, you’ll find those iconic 3D Minnie Mouse ears sticking up from the top, just begging for a photo op. But here’s where it gets extra special: between those adorable ears sits a truly charming take on Minnie’s signature bow. This one’s made of plush velvet, adorned with shimmering faux pearls, and finished with a delicate tulle accent. Talk about sophisticated!

And the pearl party doesn’t stop there! You’ll find even more of those lovely faux pearls gracing the front pocket, adding an extra touch of glamour. This backpack isn’t just cute; it’s chic, sophisticated, and ready to elevate any outfit you’ve got planned. So, who’s ready to add this dazzling piece to their collection?

Credit: Loungefly

Bring Home the Magic: The Plush Cinderella Castle Ornament is Here!

By

Ana Leal

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July 18, 2025

Bring Home the Magic: The Plush Cinderella Castle Ornament is Here!

Looking for a magical touch to your holiday decor? Get ready to light up your tree with the enchanting Cinderella Castle Ornament, available now at Walt Disney World stores for just $34.99!

Forget those hard plastic ornaments; this year, Disney is bringing us something extra special. Imagine a soft, huggable Cinderella Castle gracing your tree, made from a beautiful blue plush material. It’s a delightful change that makes this ornament stand out from the crowd, adding a touch of cozy elegance to your festive display.

This isn’t just a plush castle, though. It’s adorned with stunning details that sparkle and shine. You’ll find the iconic castle surrounded by an array of beads and jewels, catching the light and adding a serious dose of Disney magic. And the best part? The intricate beading and star-shaped jewel designs don’t stop at the front; they continue all the way around the back of the ornament, ensuring it looks spectacular from every angle. To top it all off, delicate thin golden ribbons gracefully wrap around the body and ears of the castle, adding a final touch of regal charm.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, or just dreaming of a little Disney magic at home, be sure to pick up this charming Cinderella Castle Ornament. It’s the perfect way to bring a piece of the most magical place on Earth to your holiday celebrations!

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Get Your Villain On: The Yzma Tee Has Arrived at Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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July 18, 2025

Get Your Villain On: The Yzma Tee Has Arrived at Hollywood Studios!

Get ready to add some villainous flair to your wardrobe because there’s a new tee that’s just dropped at Hollywood Studios, and it’s all about everyone’s favorite fashion-forward antagonist: Yzma!

So, if you’re heading to Hollywood Studios and want to show off your love for The Emperor’s New Groove and its most unforgettable characters, definitely keep an eye out for this Yzma Tee.

This isn’t just any t-shirt; it’s a statement piece for anyone who appreciates the finer, more chaotic things in life. For just $29.99, you can snag this awesome pale purple shirt featuring the one and only Yzma from The Emperor’s New Groove. She’s looking as fabulous as ever, rocking her iconic purple dress with those signature feathers. Seriously, who else can make villainy look so chic?

The design is super cool, with Yzma front and center, framed by a stone-style border that gives it a really ancient, maybe even a little ominous, vibe. She’s clutching a purple vial of her infamous poison, and there’s some eerie blue smoke swirling behind her because, of course, there is. But wait, there’s more! In the bottom right corner, you’ll spot Kronk, looking adorably confused with his hand on his chin. It’s the perfect touch, really capturing the dynamic (and hilarious) duo.

It’s the perfect way to bring a little bit of Pacha-destroying, llama-transforming fun into your everyday style!

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Mel’s Die-In and Club Horror Street Experiences Announced for Halloween Horror Nights 34

By

Chris B

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July 18, 2025

Mel’s Die In and Club Horror Street Experiences Announced for Halloween Horror Nights

Mel’s Die-In Zombies & Club Horror Street Experiences Revealed for Halloween Horror Nights 34

Get ready to scream (and dance?) in the streets of Universal Studios Florida this fall. Universal just dropped a killer update for Halloween Horror Nights 34, announcing two brand-new street experiences that are anything but your typical scare zones: Mel’s Die-In Zombies and Club Horror.

Yes, you read that right. Zombie carhops and undead DJs are crashing the party this year, and they’re bringing a terrifyingly good time to the streets of HHN like never before.

🧟 Mel’s Die-In Zombies will take over the iconic Mel’s Drive-In area, where ghoulishly reanimated diner staff are ready to serve up some scares with a side of brains. Think 1950s vibes meet apocalyptic horror as zombie servers roam around the neon-lit eatery. Who’s hungry?

🎧 Over in Club Horror, the undead are spinning sick beats—and possibly spinning heads. This twisted nightlife-inspired zone will feature masked partiers, eerie lights, and a rave-like atmosphere that’s equal parts party and panic. Let’s just say you might dance… or run for your life. This will likely take place on the stage area over in front of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, which will not be open for Halloween Horror Nights this year.

These “street experiences” seem to represent a bold new evolution for HHN, possibly hinting at a more immersive, performance-driven format than traditional scare zones. While Universal is keeping the blood-soaked details under wraps (for now), they’ve promised that more info is coming soon.

These two new additions will join the already-announced scare zones:

Mutations: Toxic Twenties
The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane
Masquerade: Dance with Death
The Origins of Horror

And let’s not forget the house lineup, which is already a scream-worthy mix of originals and IPs. So far, we’ve got:

Originals: Gálkn: Monsters of the North, Grave of the Flesh, Dolls: Let’s Play Dead, Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters, and El Artista: A Spanish Haunting
IPs: Terrifier, Fallout, JASON UN1V3RSE (Friday the 13th), and Five Nights at Freddy’s (appearing on both coasts!)

Tickets are on sale now for both Universal Studios Florida and Hollywood. And if you’re hoping to skip the lines—beware: many Express options have already sold out!

Ready to haunt the streets with zombie servers and rave-crazed reapers? This year’s HHN is raising the bar—and possibly the dead.

Magic Kingdom Annual Pass Reservations Fully Booked for Days After ‘Disney Starlight’ Premiere

By

Chris B

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July 18, 2025

Disney Starlight Finale Float WDW Magic Kingdom x

Annual Passholder Reservations Vanish Following Disney Starlight Parade Debut at Magic Kingdom

It’s a starry, starry sold-out night over at Magic Kingdom! Annual Passholders hoping to catch the new nighttime spectacular, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” might need a little extra pixie dust (or a Park Hopper strategy) because Park Pass reservations for the two days after the parade’s debut have filled up.

“Disney Starlight,” the first year-round nighttime parade to grace Magic Kingdom since the Main Street Electrical Parade flickered its final farewell in 2016, officially premieres on July 20. While that date has been fully booked for nearly a month, July 21 and 22 have now joined the “no-go” list for Annual Passholders hoping to snag a reservation.

But there’s still hope for those determined to bask in the glow of those dazzling floats. Reservations are still available for EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Passholders can enter those parks and then hop their way over to Magic Kingdom after 2 p.m.—just remember, capacity rules still apply and there’s no guarantee you’ll make it in.

Disney Starlight Dream the Night Away Parade Times & Route Revealed

And here’s where things get a little more glowingly complex: Starting July 20, new rules go into effect for Passholder park entry. While most days still allow Passholders to stroll into any park after 2 p.m. without a reservation, Magic Kingdom now requires a Park Pass every day of the week—unless you’re entering via Park Hopper. Yes, even weekday evenings are no longer a reservation-free ride at the Kingdom.

Marvel Strike Force Welcomes the Fantastic Four

By

Robbie

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July 18, 2025

Get ready, Marvel fans! To celebrate the theatrical release of Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps on July 25, MARVEL Strike Force is launching an epic in-game event: the “Fantastic Force” Showcase!

Starting July 21, dive into a four-week-long adventure within the action-packed, turn-based mobile game from Scopely. This special event is packed with rewards designed to help you assemble and power up your very own Fantastic Four (MCU) team. Don’t miss out on the fun and the chance to build your ultimate squad of Marvel characters!

You can download and play on iOS, Android, Steam and PC.

During the “Fantastic Force” Showcase, six missions will be released each week for four weeks. Requirements include:

• Week 1: Fantastic Four (MCU) or Hero Character
• Week 2: Fantastic Four (MCU) or City Character
• Week 3: Fantastic Four (MCU) or Global Character
• Week 4: Fantastic Four (MCU) or Cosmic Character

Baxter Building Tower Event
Starting July 24th at 2:00 PM PT, players can clobber enemies and climb the floors of the Fantastic Four’s base of operations for rewards and a special final boss during the in-game Baxter Building Tower event. Fantastic Four characters are required for each tower, and there are two towers available:

Tower 1: Open to Level 25+ and meant for early-game players
Tower 2: Open to Level 85+ and meant for more experienced Commanders

A New Fantastic Family
Arriving to help Nick Fury with a special S.T.R.I.K.E. assignment is the new Fantastic Four (MCU) team, featuring Mister Fantastic (MCU) and Invisible Woman (MCU).

Mister Fantastic (MCU): Family Protector
The man with an elastic body shows how a father bends so others don’t break! His Protector kit shields his family from damage while also dishing out attacks.

Invisible Woman (MCU): Stealth Punishment
The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world, so watch out! Invisible Woman (MCU) not only slugs anyone in her path, but she does so from the shadows.

Mister Fantastic (MCU) and Invisible Woman (MCU) bolster each other with Passive Abilities that fire off when a Fantastic Four (MCU) ally uses either their Special or Ultimate Ability.

Mister Fantastic (MCU) Barriers himself and all allies.
Invisible Woman (MCU) attacks the most injured enemy for Piercing Damage before gaining Stealth.

The Thing and The Human Torch are redesigned with new MCU costumes inspired by Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps and equipped with new updates to prepare them to face a wave of modern enemies.

Additional Content and Rewards

Play the Roguelike game mode “Danger Room” to earn a high score and more rewards.
Battle in the Baxter Building with your Fantastic Four team for a chance to earn 100 Invisible Woman (MCU) character shards.
Visit the Command Center for objectives and to claim rewards, including Legendary character shards.
Play Showcase Campaigns to try out the new Fantastic Four (MCU) characters and earn more rewards.
Play Showcase Challenges to test drive the complete Fantastic Four (MCU) team and increase your rewards.
Log in daily for rewards that feature key resources and character shards.
Redeem the promo code “FOUR” to unlock the original Fantastic Four team for free.

Visit the MARVEL Strike Force blog for more information on the “Fantastic Force” Showcase and weekly updates.

Pixar’s Toy Story Is Returning to Theaters for 30th Anniversary!

By

Catherine

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July 18, 2025

Pixar’s Toy Story Is Returning to Theaters for 30th Anniversary

The Toys are back in town! Get ready for a wave of nostalgia, as Disney and Pixar announce the return of Toy Story to U.S. theaters this fall! To celebrate the beloved film’s 30th anniversary, Woody, Buzz, and the whole gang will be back on the big screen starting September 12. This is a fantastic opportunity for fans new and old to experience Pixar Animation Studios’ groundbreaking first feature film in all its glory.

But the celebration doesn’t stop at the cinema! Disney and Pixar are pulling out all the stops for this milestone, offering a wide array of ways to join the Toy Story festivities.

Shop Products from Fan-Favorite Brands

You can relive your favorite Toy Story adventures with a fantastic collection of new products inspired by Andy’s toys. From playful popcorn makers to stylish sunglasses, there’s something for every fan:

Select Brands Toy Story Kettle Popcorn Popper
Lego Toy Story Celebration Train & RC Car
PopMart Toy Story Andy’s Room Series Scene Sets
Ray-Ban Disney – Toy Story Sun Kids Sunglasses
ColourPop Toy Story Collection

Mattel Disney and Pixar Storytellers Pack
Woody Ear Headband for Adults from Disney Store
Mattel Disney and Pixar Woody & Jessie Action Figure Pack
Funko Pop! Moment Woody and Buzz (30th Anniversary)
Miniso Toy Story Collection

Rex Interactive Talking Action Figure from Disney Store
Unilever Popsicle® Buzz Lightyear Rocket Ice Pops
RSVLTS Disney and Pixar Toy Story “Andy’s Playtime Pals”
Hot Topic Disney Pixar Toy Story Take Off T-Shirt
Baublebar Disney Toy Story Pixar 2D Bag Charm
Stoney Clover Andy’s Toys Pouchette Crossbody Bag
Pizza Planet Truck Play Set with Lights and Sounds from Disney Store

Stream the Complete Toy Story Library on Disney+

Once you’ve enjoyed the big-screen return, you can continue the 30th-anniversary celebration by streaming the entire Toy Story collection on Disney+. From Woody and Buzz’s very first adventure to their most recent journeys, every film in the beloved saga will be available to watch from September 12.

Celebrate Toy Story at Disney Parks

The fun extends to Disney Parks around the world! At Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, guests can experience the return of “Better Together: A Pixar Pals’ Celebration” Parade or snap a memorable photo with the lovable dinosaur, Rex, at Pixar Pier. And for even more Toy Story magic, you can visit Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disney Resort, and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

Explore Special Toy Story Books

Immerse yourself further in the heartwarming world of Toy Story with special books released for the 30th anniversary. These timeless stories promise to bring heart, imagination, and adventure to your bookshelf:

Disney and Pixar Toy Story Little Golden Book Library
Pop-Up Peekabo! Disney Pixar Toy Story
Disney and Pixar Toy Story Manga: 30th Anniversary Edition
Disney and Pixar The Color of Toy Story: A 30th Anniversary Celebration of Colorscripts and Creativity

Toy Story 5 Hits Theaters In 2026

The adventures aren’t over yet! Look forward to Toy Story 5, hitting theaters in 2026. Directed by Toy Story alum Andrew Stanton and co-directed by Kenna Harris, the new film promises to bring an exciting twist to the beloved franchise with a “toys meet tech” theme.

So mark your calendars for September 12 and get ready to celebrate three decades of friendship, adventure, and beloved characters with Toy Story back in theaters! Which part of the 30th-anniversary celebration are you most excited about?

Heat Advisory Issued for Central Florida Including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts

By

Chip

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July 18, 2025

Heat Advisory Issued for Central Florida Including Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts

Visitors and residents in Central Florida, including guests at Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, should prepare for dangerously hot conditions today. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Melbourne, Florida, has issued a Heat Advisory effective from 9:28 a.m. EDT until 6 p.m. EDT on July 18, 2025.

This advisory signifies a major heat risk, designated as Level 3 out of 4 by the NWS. The affected areas include Orange County, home to Universal Orlando Resort and a significant portion of Walt Disney World Resort, as well as Osceola County, where the remainder of Disney World is located. Surrounding counties such as Volusia, Lake, Seminole, Okeechobee, Indian River, Saint Lucie, Martin, and Brevard are also under the advisory.

Universal Orlando Resort Moving Designated Smoking Areas Closer to Exits Starting May

“Feels like” temperatures, or heat index values, are projected to reach approximately 108°F. Such extreme heat combined with high humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses. The NWS strongly recommends that everyone take precautions:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Seek cool environments: Remain in air-conditioned rooms or out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing if you must be outdoors.
Limit strenuous activity: Reduce outdoor exercise and other physically demanding tasks.

Guests at the theme parks should be particularly mindful of these recommendations, as prolonged exposure to these conditions can quickly become dangerous. Stay safe and stay cool!

New DOLE Whip Peach Flavor Debuts in Disneyland

By

Catherine

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July 17, 2025

New DOLE Whip Peach Flavor Debuts in Disneyland for 70th Anniversary

Get ready, foodies and Disney fans! As if DOLE Whip Day wasn’t already a highlight for sweet treat enthusiasts, Disneyland is sweetening the deal with an exciting new flavor: DOLE Whip Peach!

Making its grand debut today, July 17, DOLE Whip Peach is available for a limited time only at Disneyland. This launch is particularly special as it coincides with the official 70th Anniversary of Disneyland Resort, making it an extra magical treat to celebrate seven decades of the Happiest Place on Earth.

The Only Place to Peach Out!

For now, the Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland park is the only place in the entire world where you can get your hands on this delectable new flavor. So, if you’re a peach fan, or just a DOLE Whip connoisseur, a trip to Disneyland is in order!

This satisfying swirl offers a fresh, juicy peach flavor that’s a delightful twist on the classic Disney dessert. Sweet yet incredibly refreshing, its vibrant pink hue makes it the perfect summer indulgence. It delivers that authentic peach taste with the tropical flair that only a DOLE Whip can master.

Commemorate with a Collectible Cup!

What better way to cool off this summer amidst the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration than with a DOLE Whip Peach in hand? And to make the experience even more memorable, you can have your DOLE Whip served in a brand-new, collectible Disneyland 70th Celebration Cup!

This special cup can be purchased with the new DOLE Whip Peach, or with the classic DOLE Whip or Pineapple Upside Down Sundae with DOLE Whip Pineapple, caramel drizzle, pineapple upside down cake, and a maraschino cherry. You can find these at The Tropical Hideaway, Tiki Juice Bar, and Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, starting today, July 17, while supplies last.

Curious about where else you can find DOLE Whip goodness at Disneyland Resort? Disney Eats has compiled a comprehensive list to help you plan your next spoonful. Did you know you can even get a DOLE Whip Float with a Splash of Rum at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar? From classic pineapple to mango and everything in between, these lists will guide your taste buds.

And for those on the East Coast visiting Walt Disney World, don’t feel left out! From the iconic Aloha Isle in Magic Kingdom Park to a DOLE Whip Float with Sangria at Animal Kingdom, and even a DOLE Whip Watermelon with chamoy and chili-lime spice at Typhoon Lagoon, or a Key Lime sundae with DOLE Whip lime at Disney Springs – Walt Disney World offers its own incredible array of DOLE Whip delights.

Best Place to Grab a Dole Whip at Walt Disney World

With these tasty adventures, the possibilities are endless when you visit Disney Parks. And remember, DOLE Whip Peach is just one of many new offerings available throughout Disneyland Resort during the 70th Celebration. From limited-time treats and celebratory merchandise to unforgettable entertainment, there are memories to be made and eats to enjoy around every corner!

Disneyland Offers $70 Tickets Exclusively for Anaheim Residents

By

Sara

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July 17, 2025

Exclusive Deal: Disneyland Debuts $70 Tickets Just for Anaheim Residents

Anaheim residents now have an incredible opportunity to experience Disneyland Resort’s 70th-anniversary celebration this year for the special price of just $70.

This exclusive offer provides 1-Day, 1-Park tickets valid for visits between August 4 and September 25, 2025. It is available specifically to Anaheim residents residing within ZIP codes 92801 through 92809, 92812, 92814 through 92817, 92825, 92850, and 92899.

Please note that proof of eligible residency, including a valid government-issued photo ID, is required for both ticket purchase and park admission, and all individuals using these tickets must be Anaheim residents.

These discounted tickets are exclusively available for purchase by calling (844) 695-1240; callers must be 18 years or older. It is important to note that these special tickets will not be sold at Disneyland Resort ticket booths. Eligible residents may purchase a maximum of 8 tickets per day. Guests are reminded that park reservations are required for entry, and any Park Hopper or Lightning Lane upgrades will incur an additional charge.

Will you be taking advantage of this special ticket offer?

Magic Key Holders Save Big on Disneyland Resort Hotel Stays for Fall/Winter 2025

By

Sara

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July 17, 2025

Magic Key Holders: Save Big on Disneyland Resort Hotel Stays for Fall/Winter 2025

For a limited time, Magic Key holders have an exclusive opportunity to save on select hotel stays at the Disneyland Resort throughout the upcoming fall and winter seasons.

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Magic Key holders can now enjoy savings of up to 15% on select Sunday through Thursday night stays at Disneyland Resort hotels, valid from August 17 to December 19, 2025.

This exclusive offer extends to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel, and The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, covering a wide array of room types including Standard, Premium, Deluxe, Duo Studio, Deluxe Studio 1-Bedroom Villas, Preferred, Woods/Garden/Courtyard, and select Concierge rooms and Suites. Reservations must be made by December 16, 2025, with all travel completed by December 20, 2025.

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Please note, this offer is not valid for certain room types, including select Concierge rooms, Signature or Premium suites, and 2- or 3-Bedroom Villas, nor is it applicable at all hotels. It cannot be applied to previously booked rooms and is nontransferable.

At check-in, the Magic Key holder who made the reservation must present their valid Magic Key pass and must occupy one of the rooms on that reservation. Failure to present a valid Magic Key pass will result in the nondiscounted room price being charged for the entire stay. There is a limit of two rooms per reservation, and occupancy restrictions are enforced.

Are you a Magic Key holder?