New & Returning Experiences Coming to Walt Disney World in January

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December 18, 2023

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New & Returning Experiences Coming to Walt Disney World in January

Exciting Changes Coming to Walt Disney World Starting January 9, 2024

Get ready for a magical start to the new year at Walt Disney World as the resort introduces a series of enhancements aimed at providing guests with more flexibility and convenience. Beginning January 9, 2024, several updates to park access, dining plans, and reservation requirements will come into effect, promising a smoother and more enjoyable experience for visitors.

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1. Restoring All-Day Park Hopper Access:
If you have a ticket with Park Hopper benefits or hold an Annual Pass, you’re in for a treat. Starting January 9, you can explore another theme park at any time of the day during regular park hours, subject to capacity limitations. This brings back the flexibility to hop between parks seamlessly, adding an extra layer of spontaneity to your Disney adventure.

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2. Bringing Back Disney Dining Plans:
The beloved Disney Dining Plans are making a triumphant return. Disney Resort hotel guests who purchase a vacation package can once again enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of pre-paying for meals and snacks. Say goodbye to the hassle of individual transactions and hello to a more streamlined and enjoyable dining experience.

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3. Removing Theme Park Reservation Requirements for Date-Based Tickets:
A familiar change is making a comeback! Guests who opt for date-based tickets, the standard ticket option on DisneyWorld.com, will no longer be required to make theme park reservations. Enjoy the freedom to choose your park on the go and embrace the spontaneity that makes a Disney visit truly magical.

Good-to-Go Days for Passholders:
For Annual Passholders, a new concept of “Good-to-Go Days” is being introduced. Starting January 11th, 2024, Passholders can visit any of the four theme parks without the need for a reservation on these designated days. Keep an eye on the theme park reservation system, Annual Passholder admissions calendar, and the official app for the latest updates on “good-to-go” dates, which will be periodically added in batches.

On days when reservations are required, Passholders can still enjoy the flexibility to hop to another park at any time during regular park hours. Additionally, unless you’re planning a visit to Magic Kingdom Park on a Saturday or Sunday, you can continue to enter without a reservation after 2 p.m., adding more convenience to your park-hopping adventures.

As these exciting changes unfold, Disney enthusiasts can look forward to a more dynamic and enjoyable experience at Walt Disney World, where the magic continues to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs and preferences of its valued guests.

New Disney Theme Park Icon Pins Available At Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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December 18, 2023

New Disney Theme Park Icon Pins Available At Magic Kingdom!

We found new Disney Theme Park Icon Pins at Magic Kingdom that will make a great addition to your collection or to pin trade! They are super cute and a must have for sure.

The first pin we found features the 4 themed park icons like Spaceship Earth, Cinderella castle, Tower of Terror and Tree of Life at nighttime with a sky filled with fireworks! At the bottom, it features the Walt Disney World logo in yellow, you can get this pin for $14.99.

There are also Mickey shaped pins inspired in the different themed parks. This pin features Cinderella Castle with Tinkerbell flying over it and fireworks in the background, you can get it for $12.99.

The Epcot pin features Spaceship Earth with fireworks on Mickey’s ears! So cute!

This pin features the Tower of Terror with a nighttime sky in the back with fireworks and Disney Hollywood Studios logo at the bottom.

Finally, the Animal Kingdom pin features the Tree of Life looking stunning with fireworks in the back.

You can take a closer look at all of these fun pins in our Instagram post:

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Disney’s Blizzard Beach to Remain Closed Through Wednesday Due to Cold Temps

By

Chip

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December 18, 2023

Disney’s Blizzard Beach to Remain Closed Through Wednesday Due to Cold Temps

As temperatures take an unexpected dip in Central Florida, Disney’s Blizzard Beach, the popular water park known for its thrilling slides and aquatic adventures, has announced an extension of its closure through Wednesday. The decision comes in response to the uncharacteristically cold weather gripping the region.

Disney's Blizzard Beach Reopening — (Amy Smith, photographer)

Typically, the Sunshine State is associated with warm and sunny conditions, but a rare cold spell has descended upon Central Florida, prompting Blizzard Beach to take precautionary measures to ensure the comfort and safety of its visitors.

The closure is an unusual move for the water park, which is accustomed to providing a respite from the heat for guests throughout the year. However, Disney officials emphasize the importance of prioritizing guest well-being and maintaining a comfortable environment.

Disneys-Blizzard-Beach-Reopening-on-Nov.-6th-1 — (Courtney Kiefer, photographer)

While Blizzard Beach’s closure is primarily attributed to the colder temperatures, the decision also aligns with Disney’s commitment to quality experiences. Cold weather may impact the enjoyment of water-based attractions, and the temporary closure aims to avoid any potential discomfort for visitors.

Guests who had plans to visit Blizzard Beach during this period are encouraged to check Disney’s official website or contact Disney Guest Services for the latest updates and information on rescheduling or refunds. The decision to extend the closure reflects Disney’s dedication to providing an optimal experience for visitors, even in the face of unexpected weather challenges.

As Central Florida experiences this unanticipated cold front, Blizzard Beach’s closure serves as a reminder that theme parks adapt to various conditions to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their guests. Once the temperatures rise and the weather returns to typical Florida warmth starting on Thursday, Blizzard Beach is expected to resume its operations, welcoming guests back for more water-filled excitement.

Vintage Disney Dapper Dans Merch Now Available In The Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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December 18, 2023

Vintage Disney Dapper Dans Merch Now Available In The Magic Kingdom!

We found the Disney Dapper Dans Merch at Magic Kingdom that include apparel and accessories to hit all the right notes in style!

DAPPER DANS KNIT POLO

First we spotted this this soft cotton knit polo shirt with red pinstripes and a Disney ”D” chenille patch on the front plus a white collar and buttons and sleeves.

DAPPER DANS DRESS

The one piece dress features a high waisted and pleated chiffon skirt and a white crepe de chine top with an embroidered Disney ”D.” An attached scarf tie with a ”Main Street USA” charm adds the perfect note of nostalgia. With a removable slip dress underneath and a back zipper, this lovely vintage style dress is so flattering and easy to wear, it will make you sing.

MAIN STREET USA PARLOR DRESS

This one piece vintage inspired dress has cowl sleeves with screen art filigree and buttons at the cuffs. The dress has a rayon crepe blouse with a cowl neckline and a high-waisted stretch velvet fluted skirt with embroidered filigree. Effortlessly chic, it is as iconic as the place that inspired it and the person who wears it.

DAPPER DANS HANDBAG

Very dapper indeed, this simulated leather handbag is inspired by The Dapper Dans, the barbershop quartet that is a Main Street U.S.A. mainstay. It features a blue bow and Main Street U.S.A. charm, it has one main compartment and an interior slip pocket.

You can wear it over the shoulder or use the carry handle!

You can take a closer look at this collection in our Instagram post:

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Castaway Falls Coming to Adventure Island in 2024

By

Chris B

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December 18, 2023

Get ready for a splash of excitement! Adventure Island, the popular Tampa area water park known for its fun-filled attractions, has announced a brand new addition set to open in 2024 – Castaway Falls. This latest attraction promises to bring even more fun and adventure to the park.

Castaway Falls is the newest water attraction coming to Adventure Island. It’s designed to be a family-friendly experience that everyone can enjoy. With multiple slides, water features, and a unique theme, it’s expected to be a big hit with visitors of all ages.

The all-new attraction will feature over 100 play elements, including everyone’s favorite Water Park attraction-giant tipping buckets! Castaway Falls will feature not just one but two tipping buckets, which will dump more than 1,300 gallons of water combined!

Castaway Falls is also set to include various interactive water features. These features will splash pads, water cannons, and more, making it a great spot to play and cool off. With a variety of activities and slides, Castaway Falls will be perfect for families. Kids and adults alike can find something to enjoy.

Castaway Falls at Adventure Island is shaping up to be an exciting new attraction for water park enthusiasts. With its family-friendly design, variety of slides, and interactive features, it’s sure to be a hit when it opens in 2024. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Castaway Falls will provide yet another reason to plan a visit to Adventure Island.

Legendary Animator Mark Henn Retires from Disney after 43 Years

By

Marc Valentine

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December 18, 2023

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Legendary Animator Mark Henn Retires from Disney after 43 Years

Mark Henn, legendary animator at Disney during the studio’s modern era, concluded his 43-year tenure with the company this week at the age of 65. Commencing his Disney journey in 1980, Henn remained steadfastly loyal, never venturing to another studio throughout his illustrious career.

Although not as spotlighted as some of Disney’s other animation luminaries, Henn played a profound role in shaping the contemporary aesthetic of Disney animation. He continued the legacy of the studio’s original Nine Old Men animators, characterized by his ability to generate substantial amounts of footage and infuse characters with genuine, heartfelt, and restrained animation.

Within the studio, Henn earned a reputation as a low-key and unassuming figure. Despite this, his impact was far-reaching, as he significantly contributed to defining the studio’s animation style. Notably, Henn held the distinction of supervising five female leads, a record unmatched in the history of the animation studio.

His oversight included iconic characters such as Ariel (collaborating with Glen Keane), Belle (working alongside James Baxter), Jasmine, Mulan, and Tiana. Throughout his tenure, Henn’s animation work was characterized by its sincerity, warmth, and understated brilliance.

Demonstrating Henn’s enduring talent and significance at Disney, the studio creatively accommodated him in the era of computer-generated animation. This involved assigning him tasks related to 2D sequences, such as crafting the Maui tattoos in Moana or contributing to the hybrid film Enchanted.

Henn’s impact extended beyond feature films, as he made numerous contributions to short films like The Ballad of Nessie and Get a Horse!, engaged in special projects for theme parks, and played a key role in early character exploration and 2D sequences for major productions.

Notably, Henn embraced a pivotal new role as a mentor and coach within the studio. His mentorship journey commenced with Frozen and continued through films like Big Hero 6 and Ralph Breaks the Internet.

Henn has not yet revealed what he will do in retirement after 43 years with the company. Congratulations to Mark and best wishes on the next chapter of his journey.

New Pink & Blue Refillable Resort Mugs Debut at Walt Disney World

By

Chris B

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December 18, 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World soon, get ready for a fun and colorful update! The on-property resorts have just introduced brand-new refillable resort mugs in eye-catching pink and blue designs. These mugs aren’t just pretty to look at – they’re also a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks during your Disney vacation.

Refillable resort mugs have been a popular choice for guests at Walt Disney World for years. They are special cups that you can buy and then refill with drinks as many times as you want at any of the self-service beverage stations in the Disney resorts during your stay. And now, these mugs have gotten a stylish makeover in pink and blue!

The updated mugs, available in either pink or blue, join the existing Green and Orange colored mugs. The mugs feature fun art with the Fab 5 enjoying a day cruising around Walt Disney World, with fun hints to both Disney resorts (such as the Grand Floridan and All-Star Music) as well as the Disney theme parks.

You can find these new pink and blue mugs at most Disney resort hotels. They are available for purchase at the food courts and quick-service restaurants. Remember, these mugs are only for use at Disney resorts and are not able to be refilled in the parks.

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Disney Shares Indoor Look at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

By

Chris B

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December 18, 2023

ABC aired a special edition of 20/20 on December 14 titled ‘Disney 100: A Century of Dreams.‘ The focus of the special was to provide insight into “the stories behind the stories you love, as you’ve never seen before.” While most of the special focussed on the stories we all know and love, the special also provided a sneak peek into something new: our first inside look at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!

While we have been able to follow along on the progress of construction on the exterior of the transition from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, this is the first time we have been able to see the progress on the interior of the ride.

The images shared in the special appear to show a cabin deep in the heart of the bayou, which is consistent of the theme of the new attraction.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, slated to open at some point in 2024, will take guests on a journey deep into the bayou as they attempt to help Tiana find an important missing ingredient needed for a special party dish.

Are you excited to check out Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? Leave us a comment to let us know!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Prices Rise on Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane as Christmas Week Approaches

By

Chris B

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December 18, 2023

Genie+, the paid Fast Pass+ replacement that debuted at Walt Disney World in October 2021, operates on a tiered payment system in which guests can choose to purchase Genie+ for an individual park, with each park often charging a slightly different price, or for all of the parks if they intend to park hop. If you are planning on visiting Walt Disney World for Christmas Week, get ready to pay a bit more for Genie+ as the price for the skip-the-line service has been climbing.

The cost of Genie+ will vary based on the desired park, day of the week, and guest demand, with busier park days commanding higher prices. The price for Genie+ has climbed to $29 for the multi-park option, as well as the cost for just Magic Kingdom. The next highest price is Disney’s Hollywood Studios at $26, then EPCOT at $21, and lastly Animal Kingdom is currently charging $18 per guest.

The individual Lightning Lane for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train can be purchased for $12 per person, while Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is commanding $17 per person.

Over at Hollywood Studios, guests looking to skip the lines at Star Wars: Rise Of The Resistance will need to fork over $25, and skipping the line at Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom will set you back $16 per person today.

We expect these Genie+ prices to continue to rise as we get closer to Christmas week, so be sure to plan a potential jump in the Genie+ price into your budget for your upcoming park visits!

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Summer House on the Lake New Cookie Bar is the Sweetest Spot in Disney Springs

By

Sara

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December 18, 2023

Summer House on the Lake New Cookie Bar is the Sweetest Spot in Disney Springs

Summer House on the Lake’s new Cookie Bar is such a sweet spot! The restaurant opened in Disney Springs recently and we had to stop by to satisfy our sweet tooth with some cookies.

We tried five of the regular cookies and two seasonal ones. Pictured above are the following cookies:

Oatmeal Scotchie (oatmeal cookie with butterscotch chips) – $4.95
Peanut butter (topped with peanut brittle) – $4.95
Pink Lady (sugar cookie topped with pink icing and sprinkles) – $5.45
Krispy Chocolate Chip (topped with marshmallow crispy treats) – $5.45

We also tried the Sea Salt Chocolate Chip which is $4.95.

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The two seasonal cookies we tried are:

Fudge bomb (sugar cookie topped with rich chocolate icing) – $5.45
Gingersnap – $4.95

We loved the cookies! Guests can also get them heated and served with ice cream. A reservation is not required to go get cookies at Summer House on the Lake. You can also get specialty coffees, drinks and cocktails!

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Ready to plan your next visit to Disney World? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Photo Credit: Mary M

We stopped for Brunch at the All-New Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs

By

Sara

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December 18, 2023

We stopped for Brunch at the All-New Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs

Summer House on the Lake in Disney Springs is now open and we stopped by for brunch! Summer House on the Lake brings sunshine to the table year-round—with a menu that showcases garden-fresh foods and seasonal Florida ingredients.

The restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. We stopped by for brunch and had a great time! We were given a paper menu that featured all food items along with a cocktail menu.

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We also enjoyed multiple food items on the menu. Pictured above is the Cheesy Dream Puffs, Signature Guacamole, and Prime Beef Meatballs. There were a few hiccups with our brunch but it was to be expected as it was the first service. The food was good and we enjoyed out time at Summer House on the Lake!

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Have you had a chance to dine at Summer House on the Lake yet?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to Walt Disney World, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Photo Credit: Mary M

New Capture your Moment Location in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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December 18, 2023

New Capture your Moment Location in the Magic Kingdom

The Capture Your Moment photo session check-in location in Magic Kingdom has been moved to the Liberty Square Ticket Office. Previously, the check-in was at Sir Mickey’s in Fantasyland, at the Royal Portrait Studio.

Capture Your Moment is a 20-minute photo session that captures the fun and excitement of your special day—and your own unique style! The photographer will get everyone in the picture and give you lots of different shots to choose from. Then just purchase your favorites to download and share!

Sessions are $99 and can include up to eight guests. Guests can book a session online or via the My Disney Experience app. Sessions are available for Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, or Liberty Square.

The check-in location in Magic Kingdom is now located in the Liberty Square Ticket Office which is next to the Hall of Presidents.

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Have you ever done a Capture Your Moment session?

If you’d like to plan your next visit to Magic Kingdom, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.