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Packing For The Unpredictable Disney World Weather

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ponchos

ponchos

Packing for your Disney World vacation can be a formidable task – especially if you’re packing for yourself AND your kids (and maybe even your significant other too?!). I recommend making a list and starting well in advance of your departure for WDW – but even if you aren’t into planning ahead, you’ll want to read on and make sure you’re including these in your suitcase:

Rain Gear: Bringing your own ponchos is a MUST – I cannot stress this enough! It is pretty likely that it will rain sometime during your trip to Disney World – and you’ll want to be prepared for when it does! The Parks sell ponchos and umbrellas of course, but it’s much easier and cost effective to bring your own – local dollar stores sell thinner ones, and more durable versions can be purchased at stores like Wal-Mart or Target. Ziploc baggies and shopping bags in assorted sizes can also be a lifesaver to help protect valuables (wallets, cell phones, cameras, etc) from the rain. I like to also bring along a smaller hand towel, to help dry off exposed areas like arms/legs once the rain is done – not a necessity but certainly something that’s nice to have!

Keeping Comfortable In The Heat: Make sure you and your family are packing outfits that are loose, comfortable, and light colored as they will be the best at keeping you cool when the Florida sun makes its appearance. Sunscreen (multiple bottles) is also a must-have – I prefer the spray on kind – I find it more easily applied and absorbed, but whatever your family prefers, make sure to stock up ahead of time so you can bring it along to Disney. You’ll want to tuck a few empty water bottles in your suitcase alongside the sunscreen, as staying hydrated is really important, especially when it’s so hot out (bonus – you’ll save money by bringing your own water bottles and not having to buy bottled water at the Parks!)

It just might get cool at night: While it’s not likely that you’ll need a parka or mittens, you’ll want to make sure you’re packing at least a pair of jeans and a hoodie/sweatshirt in your bag. It can get cooler once the sun goes down, and you’ll be grateful for that hoodie, believe me!

Bag It: When heading to the Parks, stow all these items in a comfortable, easy to wear bag (since you’ll be carrying it around all day!) – I prefer a backpack with padded straps, and I like to choose one that’s gender neutral so that my husband and I can switch off carrying it and he doesn’t have to be embarrassed to tote around a pink glittery Minnie backpack (not that I own one of those…)

The weather in Orlando can change quickly – it can go from being hot and sunny to cold and rainy in a flash, so be prepared and pack for the WDW weather to save time, money, and frustration and help ensure your visit is the happiest it can be!

Hollywood Studios: Out With The Old & In With The New

Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is in a state of transition. Although brand new attractions, stage shows, fireworks displays and character meet and greets are all very exciting, it is often difficult for Disney guests to say goodbye to some of their old favorites. Change is inevitable and in the words of Walt Disney himself, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” Below is a list of the unfortunate casualties of the changes happening throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios along with the eye-popping new attractions that have replaced them:

Out with the old…

stunt show

The following will be closed permanently on April 2, 2016:

  • Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
  • Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure
  • Monsters, Inc. Meet & Greet with Mike and Sulley at Streets of America
  • Studio Catering Co.
  • High Octane Refreshments
  • New York News
  • Watto’s Grotto
  • Youse Guys Moychindise
  • Prop Shop
  • Writer’s Stop – Update! Writers Stop will reopen on April 3rd with a new menu and operating hours.

The following have either closed or have been discontinued within the past two years:

  • Hollywood Studios icon – The Sorcerer Mickey Hat
  • The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
  • Star Wars Weekends
  • Magic of Disney Animation
  • American Idol Experience
  • Lightning McQueen & Mater Meet and Greet
  • Phineas & Ferb Meet and Greet
  • The Legend of Jack Sparrow
  • Studios Backlot Tour
  • American Film Institute Showcase
  • Joffrey’s coffee kiosk
  • Pizza Planet – currently closed for a lengthy refurbishment. Possibly re-opening with a new theme.

In with the new…

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  • “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show. This nightly Star Wars themed fireworks display will be revamped this summer and renamed “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.” The show will combine fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that will put guests right in the middle of the action.
  • Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away” – This new stage show debuts on April 4th in front of the Chinese Theater and will feature some of your favorite Star Wars characters.
  • Captain Phasma will lead a procession of Storm Troopers on a march from the Launch Bay to Center Stage multiple times each day.
  • Star Wars Launch Bay – Features replica movie props, models, concept artwork and artifacts from the Star Wars films.
  • New character Meet & Greets with Kylo Ren and Chewbacca
  • Star Wars: Path of the Jedi – a 10 minute film that summaries the blockbuster Star Wars saga.
  • Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. The attraction now includes scenes from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. 
  • Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple – the show has been revamped to include elements from the popular Disney XD series Star Wars Rebels.

Olaf-Parks

  • Olaf Meet and Greet – visit your favorite lovable snowman from Frozen at the all-new Celebrity Spotlight.
  • Mickey and Minnie Starring in Red Carpet Dreams – Walk the red carpet with Minnie Mouse and find Mickey Mouse portraying the Sorcerer’s Apprentice from “Fantasia.”
  • Club Villain – a special ticketed event at Sunset Showcase, which is hosted by Dr. Facillier and four wickedly wonderful villains.

Coming Soon…

star wars land

  • Star Wars Land – This new 14 acre land will bring the Star Wars galaxy to life. Guests will be able to step aboard The Millennium Falcon and will even find themselves in the middle of an epic battle between stormtroopers and Resistance fighters.  Star Wars Land is expected to open sometime in 2018.

toy story land

  • Toy Story Land – Guests will shrink to the size of a toy and explore the world of Andy’s backyard in this new land inspired by Toy Story films. A family-friendly roller coaster and an alien saucers attraction will join the current guest favorite Toy Story Midway Mania!  Toy Story Land is expected to open sometime in 2018.

If you would like to explore the exciting new attractions, experiences and elements of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, then contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation. 

New Deleted Scenes from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”

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starwarsbluray 1

starwarsbluray

The release date for the Digital HD and Blu-Ray Combo Pack of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is fast approaching, and I couldn’t be more excited! Not only to see the movie again (and as often as I like!) but also to check out the amazing, in-depth bonus features included!

Today Disney & Lucasfilm released a teaser trailer for the deleted scenes, which include some stunning clips, I especially love the one of Kylo Ren on top of the mountain in the snow–it looks breathtaking:

The deleted scenes you can look forward to seeing are: “Finn and the Villager”, “Jakku Message”, “X-Wings Prepare for Lightspeed”, “Kylo Searches The Falcon”, “Snow Speeder Chase,” and “Finn Will Be Fine”. And, if you purchase the Digital HD copy or redeem your digital copy with via the code included in your Blu-Ray Combo pack, you can see the bonus deleted scene “Tunnel Standoff.” Earlier this week, another sneak peek of a bonus feature clip featuring Maz Kanata was also released.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” will be available on Digital HD on April 1st, and Blu-Ray Combo Pack and DVD on April 5th. Stay tuned for when we release our review of all the bonus features here on Chip & Co!

Sing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers

Disney Speakers
Disney Speakers

Disney Speakers

There is something about Disney songs that always make me want to sing out loud. So if I’m jamming out to my favorite Disney songs, what better way to listen in style than with MickeySing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers and Minnie themed speakersSing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers? Especially when they are portable so I can take them where ever I go!

These rechargeable Disney inspired speakers are ready to travel with you anywhere you wherever you go. They have cool character designs with size-defying high quality sound. The speakers connect to any audio device with the supplied cable for charging speakers and connecting. A remarkable design gives surprising volume and bass response in a compact and fun speaker. How fun are these?

Mickey Mouse Rechargeable SpeakerSing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers

Disney Speaker 2

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E! Mickey Mouse!

Minnie Mouse Rechargeable SpeakerSing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers

Disney Speaker 1

She’s just BOW-tastic!

If you’re looking for something a little different than the fabulous mouse duo, there is also other fun character designs like Perry the PlatypusSing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers from Phineas & Ferb, Darth VaderSing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers, and Captain AmericaSing Along with Mickey and Minnie With these Adorable Speakers!

Which one will you rock out to Disney music with? I think I need to have a Mickey and Minnie pair!

You Gotta Try This: The Tangerine Cafe in Epcot’s Morocco Pavilion

Tangerine Cafe Interior
Tangerine Cafe Interior

Tangerine Cafe Interior

The Morocco pavilion at Epcot is one of my favorite spots. I love the architecture, the music, the shops featuring Moroccan clothing, jewelry, and so much more, and, especially, the food. Every year I look forward to having lunch at the Tangerine Café – an open air, counter-service restaurant featuring a variety of Moroccan dishes.

The décor of the Tangerine café features an abundance of Moroccan tiles giving the café an authentic feel, and the slowly rotating ceiling fans add to the atmosphere while keeping it cool. Seating is somewhat limited compared to other counter-service restaurants, so I recommend arriving a little before or after the lunch or dinner rush.

My personal favorite meal is the Vegetarian Platter, which includes hummus, tabouleh, lentil salad, falafel, olive salad and Moroccan bread. The hummus is creamy and pairs wonderfully with the Moroccan bread. The tabouleh has a fresh lemony taste. The lentils are tender and flavorful. The falafel adds a little extra body to the meal, and the olive salad is a nice salty kick. This is a perfect meal on a hot, humid day Epcot – it will fill you up, but not weigh you down!

The menu at Tangerine Café also has a good variety of chicken, lamb and kefta (spiced ground beef) dishes, including wraps loaded with your choice of meat, hummus, marinated red onions, lettuce, tomatoes and cool and creamy Taziki sauce. If you are a looking for something a little more adventurous, opt for a Shawarma platter which includes your choice of meat with hummus tabbouleh, Tangerine Couscous Salad and Moroccan bread.  I strongly recommend ordering an extra side of the Tangerine Couscous Salad – this is a delicious, light salad with a slightly fruity, but not overly sweet, finish.

Kids meals are a little more tame. You can choose either a hamburger or chicken fingers paired with carrot sticks, apple slices and your choice of juice or milk.  For guests on the Disney Dining Plan or Quick-Service Dining Plan, a meal at the Tangerine Café is a single counter-service credit, and includes a non-alcoholic beverage and baklava for dessert.

Before you leave, make sure to stop by the pastry counter in the back of the restaurant. Here you can choose from a variety of Moroccan sweets, including baklava, almond cookies, semolina cookies, and other Moroccan specialties, as well as a traditional Moroccan mint tea and a selection of coffee drinks. Adults will appreciate some of the more grown-up options, including frozen fruit drinks, as well as a good selection of Moroccan beer and wine. Personally, I can’t leave the Tangerine Café until I have at least one glass of their red Guerrouane – not too sweet, not too dry, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a great afternoon at EPCOT.

If you would like to try the Tangerine Café or any of the other amazing restaurants at Walt Disney World, please send me an e-mail at [email protected]. I can help you plan a magical vacation at Walt Disney World or any of Disney’s other destinations.

Top five reason’s I love Disney World!

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DSC00632

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Walt Disney World is always thought of as the most magical place in the world, but why? With the 4 major theme parks, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, the water parks, Disney Springs, endless resorts and restaurants there is so much going on yet every detail feels so personal and magical. What make Disney World so magical?

Here is my list of the top 5 reason why I love Disney World:

  1. Character Interaction – True some of the character’s meet and greets have been taken away recently but there are still tons of places to meet your favorites. Meeting characters is not just a chance to take a picture or get an autograph of a loved character but it is also a way to bring back childhood innocence, when I’m standing there next to Mickey I’m not thinking of any adult responsibilities, I am completely happy, like a child. This is one of my favorite parts of visiting the parks.
  2. Themed Restaurants/Character dining – Ok everyone needs food to survive, that’s a fact. But Disney does food in a fun and magical way. Whether you having a family dinner at O’hana with the Hula dancers and the bano Singer performing for you, or you are having breakfast at the Crystal Palace with Winnie the Pooh and gang visiting your table and parading through the restaurant, there is something fun happening to remind you there is magic at every turn.
  3. The classic ride – How could anyone not get happy singing their way through It’s a Small World or yo-ho-ho-hoing their way through Pirates of the Caribbean, or being scared silly in The Haunted Mansion? Classic Disney rides are classic for a reason, they bring you to a point of happiness that surpasses all the rest. Although they get updates and refurbishment they are the same ride you grew up loving and now can pass that enjoyment onto your children. These are rides I could ride over and over.
  4. The Mountains – Whether I’m riding in the dark through space on Space Mountain, coasting over the wild west on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, getting soaked along with Br’er Rabbit on my favorite of all the mountains Splash Mountain or chasing that Yeti on Expedition Everest, the mountains are one of the best parts of my visits to Disney World. I enjoy most of the rides in all of the theme parks but these are definitely my most must do’s
  5. The overall feel – Customer service is one of the most important factors in all businesses. Disney goes above and beyond in this aspect, you feel it from the second you board the Magical Express where you watch Disney related cartoons until you arrive at your resort. From the resort to the transportation to the theme parks there is not one part of this vacation that doesn’t make you feel like you are a VIP guest.

I know there are so many other experiences that could be added to the above list, Star Wars, the many shows, all of the night-time entertainment, but I went with my top 5, what do you include in your top 5?

Comment below! 

Paul McCartney Joins the Cast of Pirates of the Caribbean 5

potc5
potc5

potc5

According to a Deadline exclusive, among some other sources, the former Beatles band member Sir Paul McCartney has joined the cast of the fifth installment of the “Pirates” franchise, “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.” The film, starring Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom, Javier Bardem, Brenton Thwaites and Kaya Scodelario has already wrapped up production for the film, making the addition of McCartney an even bigger mystery. As the rest of the film is already completed, it seems that they are bringing in McCartney to do a completely new additional scene, and was not a part of the rest of the film.

The 5th “Pirates” film is set to be released May 26, 2017, so until then we can only guess what McCartney’s role will be. The Rolling Stones band member Keith Richards played Captain Teague (Captain Jack Sparrow’s father) in the 3rd and 4th “Pirates” movies, as Keith Richards is who largely inspired Johnny Depp’s look and swagger of the character Jack Sparrow.

Although we have no definite answers as of now, I like to think that perhaps this additional scene will be a bonus after-credit sequence (as most of the “Pirates” films have had), where we see Captain Teague (Keith Richards of the The Rolling Stones) have a dual with a pirate opponent that Paul McCartney would play. What do you think McCartney’s role might be? And do you think his scene might be an introduction for possibly a larger role in a future “Pirates of the Caribbean” film?

Universal Studios Hollywood raises ticket prices by 20%

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12498750 10153625200703983 1557843643 n

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Remember last month when Universal Studios said they would offer discounts for any tickets for off-season that were pre-ordered? Well that great gesture was canceled out this past weekend when Universal Studios Hollywood, without warning, raised their prices 20%.

Universal Studios Hollywood is not the only theme park to raise their prices, a while ago Disney announced its new tier pricing, however now Universal Studios Hollywood is the highest price theme park at $90 for low-demand days to $115 for on peak-demand.

 

There are a lot of people saying the price raise has a lot to do with the new Harry Potter attractions noting when a similar attraction opened in Islands of Adventures in Orlando the two-day two park ticket price went up 36%, and brought sales at the park up 20%. This also seems to be following Disneyland which upped prices once Cars Land was open.

A spokesman for Universal Studios said the price increase is consistent with what the park is offering.

How will this affect your decision to visit Universal Studios Hollywood?

Are you ready to book your trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, Island of Adventures or Universal Studios Orlando? You can contact me here and we can plan and book a perfect vacation for you and your family!

Happy HalloWishes Dessert Premium Package Coming Soon

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It appears as though Happy HalloWishes Dessert Premium Package will be available again for this year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom.

The dates for the 2016 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party are:

  • September – 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, 30
  • October – 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31

 

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According to this screenshot from the MyDisneyExperience App, this package will include reserved viewing for Mickey’s “Boo-To-You” Halloween Parade, a delicious dessert party and a prime viewing spot for the Happy HalloWishes Fireworks display.

boo

Prices for this package have not been announced yet.

If you would like to be notified when prices become available for the Happy HalloWishes Dessert Premium package then email [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here. I will let you know as soon as pricing and availability are released.

Photo Credit: Disney

Enjoy Early Access to Fantasyland with an “Early Morning Magic” Ticket

2016 03 24 09 02 05 Seven Dwarfs Mine Train   Walt Disney World News
2016 03 24 09 02 05 Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Walt Disney World News

dwarf

It appears that Disney will now be offering early morning access to the Magic Kingdom with “Early Morning Magic“.  Guests will be allowed entrance to the park starting at 7:45am and guided to Fantasyland where they’ll have early access to just three attractions: The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Peter Pan’s Flight. Tickets are available for $69 per adult and $49 per child plus tax. This price also includes a continental breakfast at Pinocchio Village Haus that will be available from 8:30am until 10:00am.

This event will not replace Extra Magic Hours and is available for all guests to purchase.

Here are the details:

Fantasyland Fun Before the Park Opens
Make your Walt Disney World mornings more magical than ever with a first-access experience in the park!

Rise with the sun on select mornings, Disney Early Morning Magic gives you the chance to be among the first to enter Magic Kingdom park and experience a trio of Fantasyland attractions:

  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
  • and Peter Pan’s Flight.

Plus, in addition to the early-morning fun, you can get your fill of a wonderful continental breakfast at Pinocchio Village Haus—featuring such scrumptious breakfast fare as:

  • Chilled juices, coffee and teas
  • Seasonal fruit and berries
  • Freshly baked pastries
  • Cheese and cured meats
  • Scrambled eggs with assorted toppings
  • Vegetable frittata
  • Smoked bacon
  • Pork and turkey sausages
  • Fried potatoes with caramelized onions
  • Mickey Waffles

Available with the purchase of a separate ticket, Disney Early Morning Magic takes place on select dates from 7:45 AM to 10:00 AM. However, admission is limited—be sure to buy your tickets before it’s too late!

Purchase Tickets Online or Buy Phone
Don’t miss this all-new special event at Disney’s Magic Kingdom park. Purchase your tickets today!

Admission to Disney Early Morning Magic is available $69 per adult and $49 per child (tax not included).

For tickets, please make your purchase online or call the Disney Reservation Center at (407) 934-7639 for assistance. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Know Before You Go
Learn all you need to know about this special event—including where to check-in and when you can enter the park.

  • Official check-in will take place near the far left turnstiles of the Main Entrance to Magic Kingdom park beginning at 7:30 AM. Ticketed Guests will receive an event sticker for identification.
  • Starting at 7:45 AM, Guests will be admitted into the park and guided into Fantasyland.
  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Peter Pan’s Flight are the only attractions that will be operational during this special event.
  • Beginning at 8:30 AM until 10:00 AM, breakfast will be available at Pinocchio Village Haus.
  • At 9:00 AM, the theme park will open to Guests with standard theme park admission tickets and exclusive attraction access will end.
  • Please note that standard theme park admission tickets are required for this event, in addition to a Disney Early Morning Admission ticket.
  • The number of tickets available is limited. In addition, all tickets are non-refundable, non-transferrable and are only valid for admission during the special event date and hours.
  • All attractions, entertainment and experiences are subject to change without notice.

 

If you are interested in a Walt Disney World vacation and would like to take advantage of the new Early Morning Magic, then contact [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to start planning.

 

H/T Kenny the Pirate

Last Chance for Spring Savings – Book by March 31st

Flower and garden
Flower and garden

Save up to 25% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for stays most nights April 14 – June 11, 2016 if booked by March 31st. Plus, receive 1 more ticket day FREE when your package contains a minimum 4 day Magic Your Way Ticket.

Flower and garden

Enjoy Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival that runs from now until May 30th. Treat your senses to beautiful topiary and flower displays, fresh eats at outdoor kitchens and music from the Garden Rocks Outdoor Concert Series.

Chewwy

Discover all-new Star Wars adventures at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Explore the Star Wars Launch Bay and get up close and personal with some of your favorite Star Wars characters. Be mesmerized by Star Wars themed fireworks and catch an all new stage show called Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.

ÒRivers of LightÓ at DisneyÕs Animal Kingdom Ð Expected to open next spring, ÒRivers of LightÓ will be an innovative experience unlike anything ever seen in a Disney park, combining live music, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery. ÒRivers of LightÓ will magically come to life on the natural stage of Discovery River, delighting guests and truly capping off a full day of adventures at DisneyÕs Animal Kingdom. (Disney Parks)

Experience all new nighttime entertainment at Animal Kingdom this Spring with Rivers of Light, the awakening of the Tree of Life and a sunlit safari ride.

Offer Exclusions: Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Fort Wilderness Campsites, 3 Bdrm Villas, Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Bay Lake Tower, the Villas at Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and the Bungalows at Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

It’s not too late to book your Spring vacation to Walt Disney World and I can help you pull it all together!  Email [email protected] or visit my Facebook page here to get started. 

Photo credit: wdwnews.com

2016 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates Announced

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mickeys very merry christmas party 00 full

Holidays Santa Mickey

Disney has announced the dates for their 2016 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party that will be held on select evenings from 7pm – 12am at the Magic Kingdom:

  • November 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 27 and 29
  • December 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 22

Separate admission is required for this special event although ticket prices for 2016 have not been released yet nor are they currently available to purchase.

During Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, the Magic Kingdom will light up with excitement for guests of all ages to enjoy.  Cinderella’s castle will shimmer while joyful music fills the air.  Favorite attractions take on a holiday theme and Disney characters will be wearing their most festive attire.

If you would like to experience Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom this holiday season, then contact [email protected]  or visit my Facebook page here to start planning your next Walt Disney World vacation.

Photo credit: Disney

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