All new popcorn buckets and sippers coming to Walt Disney World this holiday season
Popcorn Buckets and Sippers have become popular collectible items for Walt Disney World fans, with limited edition offerings often finding themselves on display on a shelf rather than in use to hold popcorn or drinks at the parks. Get ready to sip and snack in style as we unveil the festive Disney World treasures that are sure to top the wish list of every guest this holiday season!
The Donald Duck Christmas Tree Sipper is making its grand entrance this year. This adorable sipper will surely quack up a smile with its unique design and festive flair, becoming an instant hit amongst guests looking for that perfect holiday quencher. The sipper is launching at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at select locations in Magic Kingdom Park starting Nov. 9, and will then be available in select locations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, EPCOT, Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting Nov. 11.
The super cute Mickey Mouse Toy Soldier Bucket is also new this year. The bucket provides a fun Disney twist on the classic Christmas icon. The bucket will march into the hearts of Disney fans and collectors on November 9th, exclusively available at popcorn carts dotting the Magic Kingdom Park during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. There are no current plans announced to add these buckets to any other park or make them available outside of the Christmas party.
The Gold Musical Rotating Tin brings a touch of elegance to the holiday lineup this year. Starting November 11th, these golden treasures will be spinning their way through popcorn carts across all four parks, and will also be available at Disney Springs.
All of these items have a limit of two per person, per transaction; available while supplies last. These buckets and sippers are always very popular and do sell out, so be sure to snag one if you see one!
Do any of these buckets or sippers catch your eye? Leave us a comment and let us know which is your favorite!
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!
Food and Beverage Guide to the Holidays at Disney World Theme Parks & Hotels
‘Tis the season for delightful treats, and Walt Disney World Resort is ensuring that this year’s holiday goodies are nothing short of magical. The culinary maestros across the Resort have been working tirelessly to bring the joy of the season to every corner of the property. Their passion and creativity are evident on every plate, making it clear that they’ve all earned a spot on the nice list.
Whether you find yourself in a winter wonderland at the Resort, you’re in for a treat with delectable bites and sips that will dazzle your taste buds.
If you’re lucky enough to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, explore the enticing array of bites and sips available at Magic Kingdom both during the day and exclusively at the event, as detailed in the Food & Beverage Guide.
And for an extra sprinkle of sweetness, don’t miss the enchanting gingerbread displays at various Disney Resort Hotels and EPCOT.
Mickey Santa Hat Tart: Vanilla tart with pistachio cake, chai mousse, and caramel ganache
Jambo House Lobby Pop-up Shop (Available Nov. 22 through Dec. 31)
Gingeraffe Cookie: Sugar cookie, gingerbread cookie, white chocolate, M&M’S chocolate candies, and a holiday wreath (New)
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Available Nov. 27 through Dec. 31; mobile order available)
Deer Holly Day Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake filled with chocolate ganache and topped with a peanut butter-cream cheese buttercream
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop (Available Nov. 26 through Dec. 31)
Holiday Shake: Cookie butter milkshake with caramel drizzle and holiday sprinkles topped with a Christmas tree cupcake
Disney’s BoardWalk
BoardWalk Deli (Mobile order available)
Frosted Croissant Roll: Rolled croissant dough filled with a hot chocolate-marshmallow filling (New) (Available Nov. 27 through Jan. 2)
Peppermint Brownie Cheesecake: Brownie base, peppermint cheesecake, and holiday sprinkles (Available Nov. 27 through Dec. 26)
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Centertown Market (Mobile order available)
Snowman Blondie: Chocolate chip and peppermint blondie topped with brown butter-chocolate mousse, vanilla bean whipped cream, and white chocolate (Available Nov. 27 through Jan. 2)
Peppermint Brownie Cheesecake: Brownie base, peppermint cheesecake, and holiday sprinkles (Available Nov. 27 through Dec. 26)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Contempo Café (Available Dec. 1 through 31; mobile order available)
Holiday Cranberry Frangipane Cake: Almond frangipane with cranberry-cherry gel, white chocolate mousse, and salted honey whip (New)
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Gasparilla Island Grill (Available Dec. 1 through 31; mobile order available)
Present Peppermint Brownie Pop: Brownie filled with house-made peppermint patty enrobed in white chocolate (New)
Snowman Choux: Pâte à choux filled with spiced mousse and chocolate Bavarian cream
Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available through Jan. 2; mobile order available at The Artist’s Palette only)
‘Olu Mel Holiday Float: DOLE Whip lime float with pineapple juice, ‘Olu Mel White chocolate piece, and strawberry popping candy
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace (Available Dec. 1 through Jan. 7)
Jingle Jammer: Cranberry, pineapple, cinnamon, falernum, and a splash of fresh lime juice (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Mele Kaliki Mai Tai: Plantation Original Dark Rum, Bacardí Superior Rum, St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram Liqueur, cranberry juice, orgeat, and cinnamon with a splash of fresh lime juice and a cinnamon stick
Tropical Snowstorm: Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, coconut cream with cinnamon, orgeat, and falernum topped with cinnamon and nutmeg
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory and Riverside Mill Food Court (Available Nov. 27 through Dec. 26; mobile order available)
Peppermint Brownie Cheesecake: Brownie base, peppermint cheesecake, and holiday sprinkles
Scat Cat’s Club – Café at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Hot Cocoa Beignets: Trio of Mickey-shaped beignets with a dusting of hot cocoa powder, fudge drizzle, snowflake sprinkles, and a pipette of chocolate milk (New) (Available Dec. 1 through Jan. 31)
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Le Petit Café (Available Nov. 26 through Jan. 2)
Chocolate-Peppermint Santa Hat: Dark chocolate mousse, white chocolate-peppermint mousse, and a mint marshmallow
Gingerbread Cookie: European-style gingerbread, dark chocolate, and sugar glaze
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Roaring Fork (Mobile order available)
Peppermint Igloo: White chocolate igloo filled with white chocolate-peppermint mousse and dark chocolate cake (New) (Available Nov. 15 through Dec. 30)
Available at Various Disney Resort Hotel Food Courts (Available Nov. 27 through Jan. 31; mobile order available)
Walking in a Plant-based Snow Land: Chocolate cupcake with vanilla buttercream and a flurry of snowflake sprinkles (Plant-based); Available at the following locations:
World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Available at Various Table-Service Restaurants(Available through Jan. 7)
Gingerbread Martini: Grey Goose Vodka, RumChata Liqueur, and gingerbread spice featuring a rim of homemade gingerbread from the bakery teams
Available at Select Deluxe & Specialty Resort Locations (Available Nov. 27 through Jan. 1)
Holiday Fruitcake Mule: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, Hella Cocktail Co. apple blossom bitters, cranberry juice, and rosemary topped with ginger beer (New)
Holiday Fruitcake Old-Fashioned: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, Hella Cocktail Co. apple blossom bitters, cranberry, lemon, and rosemary (New)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
ABC Commissary (Available Nov. 11 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)
Holiday Minnie Bundt Cake: Spice cake rolled in cinnamon-sugar with apple pie filling topped with spiced maple buttercream and salted caramel icing
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa with Cherry Bourbon topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce
Backlot Express (Available Nov. 11 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)
Red Velvet Whoopie Pie: Red velvet cake, candy cane buttercream, and holiday sprinkles
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa with Cherry Bourbon topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce
Hollywood Scoops (Available through Jan. 1)
Candy Cane Milkshake: Chocolate cake doughnut, mint doughnut icing, and candy cane sprinkles
PizzeRizzo (Available Nov. 11 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)
Melted Snowman Sugar Cookie: Sugar cookie with red and green sugar, white chocolate, marshmallow, dark chocolate top hat, raspberry-chocolate twigs, orange sprinkle, and chocolate-covered cocoa nibs
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa with Cherry Bourbon topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce
Rosie’s All-American Café (Available Nov. 11 through Jan. 1; mobile order available)
Santa Mickey Cupcake: Chocolate cake filled with mocha fudge and topped with red almond buttercream, white chocolate, and dark chocolate Mickey ears
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce (Non-alcoholic beverage)
Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa with Cherry Bourbon topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate sauce
The Trolley Car Café (Available Nov. 11 through Jan. 1)
Mickey Gingerbread Cookie
Red Velvet Whoopie Pie: Red velvet cake, candy cane buttercream, and holiday sprinkle
Woody’s Lunch Box (Available Nov. 11 through Jan. 31; mobile order available)
Hot Chocolate Lunch Box Tart: Chocolate fudge filling, hot chocolate-marshmallow fondant, and mini marshmallows
Dockside Diner and Outdoor Vending Carts Near Grand Avenue, the Tip Board, and the Main Entrance(Available through Jan. 1)
Holiday Mickey Brownie: Mickey-shaped chocolate brownie with holiday sprinkles
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Creature Comforts (Available Dec. 22 through 31)
Mickey Holiday Mousse Dome: Amaretto-chocolate mousse, cherry-cranberry coulis, orange-chocolate cake, white chocolate glaçage, and chocolate Mickey ears
Pizzafari and Restaurantosaurus (Available Dec. 1 through 29; mobile order available)
Merry Menagerie Cupcake: Gingerbread cupcake with cream cheese filling and frosting
Satu’li Canteen (Available Dec. 22 through 31; mobile order)
(Nov. 5, 2023) Ian Borderlon and Renee Kearns pose with their Encanto-themed medals after finishing the 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon. Bordelon was the overall race winner while Kearns finished first in the women’s division. (Harrison Cooney, photographer)
(Harrison Cooney, photographer)
Orlando Runner Repeats as Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Winner
Ian Bordelon needs no convincing that Walt Disney World Resort is truly The Most Magical Place on Earth. The local Orlando runner, residing just minutes from the Disney resort, once again showcased his prowess by clinching victory at the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon for the second consecutive year.
Making the short drive to EPCOT on Sunday, Bordelon dominated the competition, crossing the finish line nearly two minutes ahead of the closest contender. His impressive winning time of 1:11:38 falls only about a minute short of the race record set by Jason Simpson in 2016.
(Nov. 5, 2023) Renee Kearns of Littleton, Colo. wins the 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon women’s division with a time of 1:23:55. Kearns’ husband, Ryan Kearns, placed second in the men’s division at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Harrison Cooney, photographer)
“Yeah, it’s a blast,’’ Bordelon said of racing at Disney. “You train really hard. And so to come to an event like this where you can kind of relax a little bit and let loose and have a little bit of fun with all the other runners here, it’s a blast and a blessing to be able to finish first.’’
(Harrison Cooney, photographer)
For the top female finisher, Renee Kearns, the 13.1-mile race was a family affair. Not only was she the first woman to cross the finish line (1:23:55), but her husband, Ryan Kearns (1:13:12), finished second among the men. Plus, they brought along their toddler son with them from their Littleton, Colorado home, making this his first trip to Walt Disney World. Now, they plan to spend Monday celebrating her win on her husband’s birthday.
“It feels amazing,’’ Kearns said of winning with her family along for the ride. “It’s just good feelings all around.’’
Kearns said after the race that she didn’t come to Disney expecting to win because, frankly, she had spent the last couple of days having a ball in the parks, experiencing attraction after attraction.
“We’ve been hitting the parks hard this week, so the legs are a little sore,’’ Kearns said. “But I had a good feeling around mile 4 that it was a potential for me.’’
(Harrison Cooney, photographer)
In the wheelchair division, Heather Sealover from Bossier City, Louisiana finished first with a time of 1:02:33, while Nicholas McCoy of Boerne, Texas was the first male finisher at 1:10:34.
Sunday’s RunDisney half marathon was themed around the Disney animated film “Encanto.’’ The course took runners from EPCOT to Disney’s Hollywood Studios before finishing back at EPCOT. This evening, the runners will toast their achievements at an exclusive post-race party at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.
(Nov. 5, 2023) Thousands of runners participated in the 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon, which was the final course during the four-day event weekend at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Wine & Dine weekend featured a 5K, 10K and half marathon with Disney-themed medals for all who crossed the finish line. (Harrison Cooney, photographer)(Nov. 5, 2023) Thousands of runners participated in the 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon, which was the final course during the four-day event weekend at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Wine & Dine weekend featured a 5K, 10K and half marathon with Disney-themed medals for all who crossed the finish line. (Harrison Cooney, photographer)(Nov. 5, 2023) Thousands of runners participated in the 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon, which was the final course during the four-day event weekend at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Wine & Dine weekend featured a 5K, 10K and half marathon with Disney-themed medals for all who crossed the finish line. (Harrison Cooney, photographer)(Nov. 5, 2023) Thousands of runners participated in the 2023 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon, which was the final course during the four-day event weekend at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Wine & Dine weekend featured a 5K, 10K and half marathon with Disney-themed medals for all who crossed the finish line. (Harrison Cooney, photographer)
Next up in the runDisney race series is its signature event – the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (Jan. 3-7, 2024). The event features a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon, plus the Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge (half marathon and full marathon) and the Dopey Challenge (5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon).
The following week the runDisney race series returns to Disneyland Resort in California for the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend (Jan. 11-14, 2024). That event includes a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and the Dumbo Double Dare (10K and half marathon), plus kids’ races, yoga, and a health and fitness expo.
Peyton’s Places heads to Magic Kingdom to investigate the origins of the iconic Disney Super Bowl spots
Peyton Manning, the former NFL quarterback who racked up 2 Super Bowl rings and wins against all 32 teams in the NFL during his 18-year career, is bringing his popular ESPN+ Show ‘Peyton’s Places‘ to Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. The episode explores the origins of the iconic ‘What’s Next’ Disney Super Bowl Spots.
For those unaware, ‘What’s Next’ is a now-staple commercial that appears at the end of the Super Bowl. The ads go something like this: interviewer “Peyton Manning, you just won the Super Bowl, What’s Next.’ Peyton: ‘I’m going to Disney World (or Disneyland, depending on what park the team is heading to).’
The day after the Super Bowl, the winning team gathers at Walt Disney World (or Disneyland) for a celebration that includes parades and interactions with a variety of Disney characters. The first ‘What’s Next’ spot aired with Phil Simms exclaiming ‘I’m going to Disney World’ in 1987 following the New York Giants 39-20 wins over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI. Disney Parks blog relates the following origin of the ‘What’s Next’ idea:
In December 1986, pilots Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager had just completed the first flight around the world without stopping or refueling. Then Disney CEO, Michael Eisner and his wife Jane, were having lunch with the pilots and asked the simple question “What are you going to do next?” Their response was, “We’re going to Disneyland!” And just like that, the idea for the iconic “What’s Next?” campaign was born.
Watch Phil and Peyton traverse around Magic Kingdom while Phil gives us all the inside story behind the famous spots (such as the fact he in initially didn’t even want to film the commercial) in the “When You Wish Upon A Star” episode of “Peyton’s Places” airing now on ESPN+.
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!
Broadway Fans Can Look forward to 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Broadway enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as event organizers unveiled the Broadway show lineup set to perform during this year’s spectacle. A notable first for the parade, it will kick off nationwide at 8:30 AM on November 23, extending the parade by 30 minutes from previous years.
Taking the stage will be performances from & Juliet, Back to the Future, How to Dance in Ohio, Shucked, and Spamalot. The stars of Gutenberg!, Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells, will be making a special guest appearance. Moreover, the parade will feature appearances by Cher, Brandy, David Foster, and Katharine McPhee, along with Ashley Park, who will be joined by the Muppets of Sesame Street. Additional participants will be announced soon.
For those looking to witness the festivities in person post up somewhere along the parade’s route, which runs from 77th Street and Central Park West to Columbus Circle. From there, it turns onto Central Park South and proceeds down Sixth Avenue. The final leg of the route involves a turn at 34th Street, culminating in front of Macy’s Herald Square on Seventh Avenue, where the Broadway performances will take place.
There will be designated public viewing areas along the parade route, and attendees are encouraged not to bring large bags, umbrellas, backpacks, or strollers. Millions of Americans can watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade when it airs at 8:30 AM, irrespective of the local time zone, the broadcast is live only for those in the Eastern Time Zone.
What Broadway show are you looking forward to most on this year’s red carpet? Let us know your thoughts in a comment.
Holiday Decorations have Arrived at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom has received holiday decorations! From a giant Christmas tree to wreaths and garland throughout the resort, guests can enjoy festive and unique decorations.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s giant Christmas tree can be found outside the entrance to the park. The tree is decorated with ornaments in the shape of animals, snowflakes, and other colorful ornaments. At the base of the tree you’ll see gifts and toys. Characters from Winnie the Pooh are around the base along with other favorite characters like Stitch and Chip & Dale.
The holiday decorations start at the entrance to the park. Garland and wreaths decorated with ornaments and bows adorn the stores and even the ticket office.
The holiday decorations begin inside the park as you walk over the bridge into Discovery Island. The village is in the middle of celebrating the winter season, so you’ll see lots of sparkling white holiday decorations. On light posts throughout the park you’ll see other holiday decor.
There are even some unique holiday decorations in the park. These two Christmas trees seem to be made from bicycle parts and other repurposed materials.
We can’t forget Donald’s Dino-Bash in DinoLand USA! The area is decked out in festive wreaths, lights, ornaments, and garland. There’s even a giant snowman!
Ready to plan your next visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
A Festive Guide to the Christmas Season at Disney Springs
The Christmas season has arrived at the Walt Disney World resort but you don’t need a park ticket in order to enjoy the festive offerings at the resort. You can experience multiple holiday offerings at Disney Springs without purchasing a park ticket!
Be joyful and indulge in one-of-a-kind experiences together in a winter wonderland.
Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth
Starting November 10, 2023, pick up a complimentary map to help you find 19 trees shimmering with a festive glow. Use the included stickers to match the correct icon to each tree. Once your map is complete, bring it to one of the redemption locations for a special surprise!
Santa Greetings at Once Upon a Toy
Visit with jolly old Saint Nick at Once Upon a Toy from November 10 through December 24, 2023. Virtual queue will be in place for this experience (subject to availability).
Nightly Snowfall at Town Center
Watch in awe as “snow” falls in Disney Springs Town Center—creating a whimsical winter scene. Snow will flurry every half hour beginning at sundown near the Town Center tree.
Nightly Live Holiday Entertainment
Behold holiday-themed stilt walkers and a rollerblade duo roaming Town Center, Santa Sleigh DJ serving up joyful tunes throughout the Marketplace, and many dazzling displays designed to put you in the spirit of the season.
Holiday Dining
Enjoy seasonal sips and bites for a limited time at the following locations:
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
Amorette’s Patisserie
The Ganachery
Marketplace Snacks
Swirls on the Water
D-Luxe Burger
Dockside Margaritas
Outdoor Bars
Holiday Shopping
Classic Christmas Collection Discover that perfect something for the young and young-at-heart in your family.
Highlights from this collection include:
Mickey Mouse Holiday Plush 2023
Minnie Mouse Holiday Plush 2023
Mickey Mouse and Friends Holiday Countdown Calendar
Holiday Family Matching Sleepwear Collection – Woven Plaid
Mickey Mouse and Friends Disney Parks Holiday Train Set
Holiday Homestead Collection Update your holiday look with items from this festive collection.
Highlights from this collection include:
Minnie Mouse and Friends Holiday Homestead Sweater
Goofy Holiday Homestead Pullover Sweatshirt
Minnie Mouse Seasonal Homestead Tote Bag
Mickey Mouse and Friends Homestead Clogs
Homestead Collection Set your table and decorate your home with Disney-meets-yuletide flair.
Highlights from this collection include:
Fantasyland Castle Homestead Throw
Mickey Mouse Icon Homestead Mug
Mickey Mouse Icon Homestead Throw Pillow
Mickey Mouse Icon Homestead Pitcher
Mickey Mouse Icon Homestead Serving Tray
Hanukkah Collection Celebrate the Festival of Lights with new Hanukkah-inspired items.
Highlights from this collection include:
Hanukkah Light-Up Ear Headband
Mickey and Minnie Mouse Hanukkah Light-Up Loungefly Backpack
Mickey Mouse Hanukkah Plush
Munchlings Seasons Sweetings & Festive Fare Enjoy a taste of the holidays with our Disney Munchlings Seasons Sweetings and Festive Fare series.
Characters have been reimagined as delicious looking plush inspired by holiday sweets and dishes. Highlights from this collection include:
Dug Beef and Gravy Pie Disney Munchlings Plush
Disney Munchlings Mystery Plush
Minnie Mouse Holiday Toffee Pudding Disney Munchlings Plush
Stitch Snowflake Cupcake Disney Munchlings Plush
Baymax Festive Berry Pavlova Disney Munchlings Plush
Ready to celebrate the holidays at Disney Springs? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
How to get the Fan-Favorite Candy Canes in Disneyland!
The holiday season is almost here and guests will be excited to know the fan-favorite candy canes are returning to the Disneyland Resort! Let’s go over all we know about the traditional, hand-made candy canes and how you can get one this year.
Each year, Disneyland’s skilled confectioners undertake the meticulous task of handcrafting thousands of flawless candy canes. The process begins as a cast member delicately pulls a glob of delicate yellow sugar mixture on an old-fashioned candy-pulling hook, with a second cast member carefully infusing peppermint oil into the batch. This candy-pulling step introduces air bubbles into the mixture, transforming it into the classic white candy base.
Once perfected, this candy is combined with long ropes of dyed sugar, creating the iconic red and green stripes that gracefully encircle the cane. With great care and precision, the candy mound is shaped into slender tubes. To conclude, two cast members collaborate to cut, weigh, and mold the canes before they are packaged. This entire labor-intensive process spans approximately 40 minutes for a single batch.
This demanding and time-consuming procedure results in a minty candy cane of unparalleled smoothness and freshness. While many modern factories churn out mass-produced, mediocre canes during the holiday season, there are still a few places in the world, such as Disneyland, where the tradition of crafting these exceptional candy canes endures.
Each candy cane measures about 18 inches long and weighs 5 ounces. Because of their size and quality, they cost more than your average candy cane. Last year they were $19.99 each.
The candy canes are extremely popular and Disneyland only sells them on select days. Last year guests were able to join a mobile wait list once they entered the park. Still, not everyone on the list will get a candy cane. They are limited to one per guest and there are only about 135 available each day.
There are two locations where the candy canes are sold and the alternate days for selling the treats. Candy Palace in Disneyland and Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure sell the candy canes. We don’t know the 2023 sale dates yet but last year there were a total of 14 dates (7 in each park) and they were all in December.
Keep an eye out for when those dates are announced if you want a chance at getting your hands on a Disneyland candy cane!
Ready to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me for a free vacation quote. I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
Disney Cruise Line Welcomes New Environmental Manager, Eraise Thompson
Disney Cruise Line has announced Eraise Thompson as the new Island Environmental Manager. Eraise, who grew up in Freeport, is now in charge of a new role in which she will lead eco-friendly projects at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, and at the upcoming Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera.
Thompson’s job is to help Disney Cruise Line cut down on air pollution, save water, and make less trash. She’s also going to teach other crew members on the island how to help with these green efforts.
Eraise is thrilled to join Disney. She shared, “Being from The Bahamas, I love our oceans and wildlife and can’t wait to help Disney meet their strong environmental goals. This work will help our local area a lot.”
Before joining Disney, Eraise spent almost ten years working on health, safety, and environmental projects. She was an environmental specialist at Grand Bahama Power Company. Eraise has advanced degrees in environmental safety and health, and biology, making her well-equipped for her new role.
Disney Castaway Cay’s director, Earle Bethell, is happy to have her onboard, noting her track record of running successful environmental programs.
Eraise is joining other Bahamian experts at Disney, including Bradley Watson and Pachancia Knowles, who were hired in 2022. Together, they work on environmental and conservation plans for Disney’s island destinations.
Disney Cruise Line is excited to have Eraise Thompson as part of the team, ensuring the beauty of The Bahamas is protected for generations to come.
About Disney Cruise Line: For more than 25 years, Disney has introduced countless families to the beauty and spirit of The Bahamas and has provided significant economic impact while demonstrating a strong commitment to the environment and the community. Approximately 70 percent of the cruises offered by Disney have at least one stop in The Bahamas, all five of its ships are registered in The Bahamas and it is estimated that DCL operations currently contribute more than $70 million toward The Bahamas gross domestic product annually.
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!
Guests visiting Walt Disney World during Thanksgiving week will have extra hours to enjoy the parks
Walt Disney World has announced an exciting update for visitors planning to spend their Thanksgiving week at the renowned theme parks. In anticipation of the holiday crowds and to ensure guests have the most festive and memorable experience, the park hours at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom have been extended! Guests will now have extra time to enjoy the plethora of attractions, parades, and seasonal festivities that Disney has to offer.
At Magic Kingdom, the park will open at 8:00 AM from the 19th through the 23rd, and 9am on the 24th and 25th. On nights when Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is not scheduled, the park closing hours have been extended with some nights staying open as late as midnight!
Sunday, November 19 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Monday, November 20 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early); closing at midnight (3 hours later)
Tuesday, November 21 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Wednesday, November 22 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Thursday, November 23 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early); closing at midnight (3 hours later)
Friday, November 24 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early); closing at 11:00 pm (2 hours later)
Saturday, November 25 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early); closing at 10:00 pm (1 hour later)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios will open at 8:30 am throughout the week of the 19th through the 25th (1/2 hour earlier); the closing time for each day remains the same.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a list of earlier opening and closing during Thanksgiving week. The opening and closing hours vary day to day, so you will want to keep a close eye on the park calendar as you plan your itinerary:
Sunday, November 19 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Monday, November 20 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Tuesday, November 21 – Opening at 8:30 a.m. (1/2 hour early); Closing at 8 p.m. (1 hour later)
Wednesday, November 22 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early); Closing at 8 p.m. (1 hour later), resulting in Extended Evening hours being pushed to 8 p.m. through 10 p.m.
Thursday, November 23 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Friday, November 24 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Saturday, November 25 – Opening at 8 a.m. (1 hour early)
Are you visiting Walt Disney World during Thanksgiving week? If so what do you think of the extended park hours? 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!
New Holiday Treats Now Available at Main Street Confectionery in the Magic Kingdom
Along with the holiday decorations now at Magic Kingdom guests will find new holiday treats as well! The Main Street Confectionery on Main Street USA is offering some tasty, and adorable, holiday treats this year.
We saw three holiday candy apples at the Confectionery. A red Mickey apple with white stripes and red & green M&Ms. A red Mickey apple with red sugar and a Christmas tree decoration. And a white Minnie apple with a red bow and red M&M polka dots.
There are some fun pre-packaged treats available as well! There’s a holiday cotton candy, a three-pack of hot cocoa flavors, and a 5-pack assortment of chocolate bars. All items feature Disney characters in holiday attire on the package.
Other holiday treats guests can enjoy include rice crispy treats decorated like Mickey and Minnie, chocolate covered rice crispy pops, and holiday cupcakes.
Ready to plan your next holiday trip to Walt Disney World? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
More Christmas Decorations Arrive in the Magic Kingdom for the Holidays
Yesterday we shared that the giant Christmas tree has been installed in Magic Kingdom. Today, we have a look at more Christmas decorations in the park! The holiday season hasn’t officially started yet, but the park is decked out and ready for it to begin.
The Magic Kingdom at Disney World is a truly enchanting place during the holiday season, with Christmas decorations that transport visitors into a winter wonderland of magic and merriment. Main Street, U.S.A. is adorned with sparkling lights and garlands, while the towering Christmas tree at the end of the street acts as a beacon of holiday cheer.
Throughout the park, you’ll find an array of festive decorations, from festive wreaths and twinkling lights to larger-than-life nutcrackers and beautiful bows. Everywhere from Main Street to Cinderella Castle, and even inside the stores has been touched with magical holiday decor.
The Magic Kingdom’s Christmas decorations are a sight to behold, creating an unforgettable experience for families and visitors of all ages, where dreams come true in the spirit of the season.
Will you be celebrating the holidays at Magic Kingdom this year?
If you’d like to see the holiday decorations in person, 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!
