First Holiday Decorations Arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The first holiday decorations have begun to arrive at the park even though we haven’t even celebrated Halloween yet.
Once again, the sparkly red and white holiday stars are lining Sunset Boulevard. They are the first of the holiday decorations to arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and seem to be the only decor so far. The stars also aren’t super obviously holiday decor.
With Halloween just a few days away, and the start of holiday events like Jollywood Nights happening in early November, more holiday decorations will be arriving soon. Disney Jollywood Nights begins on November 11 and runs on select nights through December 20.
Will you be celebrating the holidays at Walt Disney World this year?
There’s still time to plan your holiday getaway to Disney World! 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.
Exclusive Hoop-Dee-Doo Holiday Events for DVC Members Coming in November and December
Disney Vacation Club members will get to experience exclusive Hoop-Dee-Doo Holiday events in November and December! Hoop Dee Holidays will take place at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue on select nights this holiday season.
During specific evenings in November and December, Disney Vacation Club Members who qualify are extended a warm invitation to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit with a nostalgic touch at Disney Vacation Club’s Hoop Dee Holidays. Embrace the joyous atmosphere with a musical and comedic performance, relish a magnificent feast alongside your fellow Members, and savor the exclusive pre-show experience, complete with a keepsake to commemorate your special evening. Reservations open on November 1st.
Event Information
Tuesday, November 28, 2023
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Show Times 4:00 PM and 6:15 PM Eastern Time
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your reservation time to check in. The doors open at 4:00 PM and 6:15 PM Eastern Time. Seating will begin immediately at these times; the Hoop Dee Holidays show begins 20 minutes later.
Eligibility Disney Vacation Club Members who are eligible for Membership Extras benefits may attend this event.
Party Size Limit A Member can attend and bring up to 11 additional Guests per Membership (for a total 12).
Location Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Seating and Prices Seats are allocated based on party size and category. Choose from 3 different seating categories. Wheelchair-accessible seating is located in Category 1 and Category 2. Category 3 seating is located on the second floor of Pioneer Hall, which has no elevator access. Prices include tax and gratuity. Advance booking is required; payment in full is due at the time of booking.
Category 1: $79.00 per person (Ages 10 and older), $49.00 per person (Ages 3 to 9)
Category 2: $74.00 per person (Ages 10 and older), $45.00 per person (Ages 3 to 9)
Category 3: $71.00 per person (Ages 10 and older), $44.00 per person (Ages 3 to 9)
How to Book Hoop Dee Holidays Starting November 1, 2023, Members can call Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to check availability and book.
Will you be attending Hoop Dee Holidays this year?
If you’d like to celebrate the holidays at Walt Disney World, 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.
First Look at the Menu for New Palm Breeze Bar Opening Nov. 2nd at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
The new Palm Breeze Bar will be opening at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel on November 2, 2023. This delightful outdoor venue will feature modern décor inspired by the imaginative artistry of Disney Legend, Mary Blair. The food will be just as fun as the decor and today we got a first look at the menu.
Heirloom Beet Salad: Roasted and marinated beets, baby kale, Persian cucumber, whipped Stracciatella mozzarella, candied walnut, and herb vinaigrette
Southwest Salad: Little gem lettuce, avocado, black beans, charred corn, heirloom tomato, cheddar and Jack cheeses, and cilantro dressing (Also available with grilled chicken breast, salmon filet, or grilled prime flat iron steak)
Sandwiches:
Jumbo Lump Crab Roll: Tarragon and lemon aïoli and fresh dill on a brioche bun served with potato chips
Palm Breeze Burger: Sun-dried tomato and basil pesto, burrata, and arugula served with french fries
Spicy Crisp Chicken Sandwich: Zesty slaw, spicy aïoli, and bread and butter pickles served with french fries
Artisan Personal Pizzas:
Charcuterie Pizza: Artisan-cured prosciutto, pepperoni, sausage, and sun-dried tomato
Four Cheese California Pizza: Mozzarella, cheddar, and Jack cheeses with chevre, marinated tomato, and fresh basil
Enjoy one of the new beverages coming to Palm Breeze Bar with Grove Grown Inspirations, Stirred and Strong, and Chilled Delights!
Signature Breezy Marg: Código Reposado Tequila, charred Meyer lemon juice, Cointreau, and agave nectar garnished with charred Meyer lemon wheel
Tropical Shandy: Flor De Caña Rum, pineapple shrub, lime juice, and Smog City Mango Pango Ale
Seasonal G & T: Sipsmith Gin, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, black pepper, rosemary syrup, charred Meyer lemon juice, and elderflower tonic water
Basil Grapefruit Sour: Del Maguey Mezcal, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, grapefruit syrup, egg white, and Thai basil with a Thai basil garnish (Egg white substitute available upon request)
Marcie ’55: Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Malahat Cabernet Rested Rum, Averna Amaro, Fernet Branca, plum and burlesque bitters, and lemon essence
Chilly Mango: Don Julio Blanco Tequila, frozen mango purée, chamoy, and chile-lime seasoning
Fifty-Five-Fifty: Selva Coconut Rum, frozen coconut purée, peach juice, and mint
An assortment of wines and beers
Are you looking forward to dining at the Palm Breeze Bar when it opens next week?
If you’d like to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort, 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!
Disney has provided a glimpse into World of Frozen’s Cast Costumes
Stepping into the magical world of Disney, one often marvels at the enchanted ambiance and meticulous attention to detail. As the much-anticipated “World of Frozen” prepares to be unveiled at Hong Kong Disneyland on November 20th, there’s a behind-the-scenes story that’s as enchanting as the land itself: the detailed and immersive cast member costumes.
Eva Chan, celebrating 25 years as a Disney cast member, along with the talented Angel Sin, was tasked with dressing the citizens of Arendelle. With Eva’s vast experience spanning attractions to hotels and Angel’s impressive stint, which includes the Disney Explorers Lodge, their collaboration promised to be nothing short of magical.
Drawing from the traditional Norwegian bunads, the outfits are a blend of authenticity and adaptability. With reversible vests and a spectrum of shirts in shades from royal purple to icy blue, customization is at the heart of their design. To add a hint of personal touch, cast members can choose accessories like sunflower hair clips and hair scarves. And for those visitors enamored by these touches, Tick Tock Toys & Collectibles offers these accessories for purchase!
Floral elegance encapsulates the costumes of Arendelle village. Infused with rosemaling embroidery, these outfits echo the rich Scandinavian Viking heritage, merging with the baroque and rococo influences of the 18th and 19th centuries. This theme doesn’t just stop at the attire; it’s intricately woven into the land’s architecture and even Arendelle’s crest.
Venturing into the forest, Oaken’s iconic style prevails. Think sweaters paired with cropped breeches and suspenders. The color palette here is rooted in earthy tones, mirroring the forest’s lush surroundings, especially evident in the attire at Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs.
Hong Kong’s humid climate posed a unique challenge. However, Eva and Angel masterfully combined form and function, choosing light, moisture-wicking fabrics to ensure comfort. Even the themed raincoats and water bottle covers resonate with the rosemaling motifs prevalent in the land.
Each cast member’s name tag is a badge of honor, depicting locations within the “World of Frozen”. But what’s most enchanting is the Summer Snow Day celebration symbol: a sunflower. Its yellow petals gracefully transform into blue icy crystals, perfectly embodying the spirit of Arendelle.
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!
The U.S. Air Force conducts a special Independence Day flyover of Magic Kingdom Park on July 4, 2023. A squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets flown by the 33rd Fighter Wing made two passes over the world-famous theme park. The first included a KC-135 tanker to mark the 100th anniversary of the Air Force’s 100 years of aerial refueling capabilities. (Abigail Nilsson, Photographer)
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Will Soar Over Walt Disney World on October 30th
On a clear October morning, the skies above Walt Disney World are set to come alive with an electrifying display of patriotism, history, and aerial mastery. For the very first time, guests at the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT will be treated to an awe-inspiring flyover high above not one but TWO Walt Disney World theme parks by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flight demonstration team.
The Thunderbirds’ flight path will take them above two of the most iconic structures in the Disney realm: the timeless Cinderella Castle and the futuristic Spaceship Earth. Scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. – weather permitting – this demonstration will paint the sky with precision and grandeur for a brief yet unforgettable 5 minutes.
Disney’s decision to host the Thunderbirds is far more profound than a mere display of aerial prowess. This flyover symbolizes a tribute to those who serve with valor, echoing the sentiments of National Veterans and Military Families Month, which commences in November at Walt Disney World.
This occasion underscores Disney’s long-standing reverence for members of the United States military and their families. The Disney lineage and military support are inextricably linked, with founders Walt and Roy Disney both having served their nation during the First World War. Their personal commitment to the armed forces set the foundation for Disney’s continued dedication to honoring the military community.
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 New Details & Release Date for Live-Action Snow White
Disney’s live-action “Snow White,” a captivating musical reimagining of the timeless 1937 film, is set to enchant audiences in theaters on March 21, 2025.
Starring the talented Rachel Zegler, the film welcomes viewers back to the magical world of Snow White, featuring cherished songs and iconic characters, including the Evil Queen and the lovable dwarfs—Dopey, Grumpy, Sneezy, Bashful, Happy, Sleepy, and Doc.
Directed by Marc Webb (The Amazing Spider-Man 2) and produced by Marc Platt (The Little Mermaid), this cinematic journey also boasts original songs from the acclaimed duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman).
Disney’s live-action “Snow White” has experienced a HUGE scheduling change, moving from its initial release date of March 22, 2024, to the new date of March 21, 2025.
First Look at Family Comedy Dashing Through the Snow
Today, Disney+ has unveiled the trailer for the upcoming original family holiday comedy “Dashing Through the Snow,” set to premiere on November 17, 2023, exclusively on Disney+. This heartwarming and comical tale follows a dedicated social worker from the Atlanta police department on a Christmas Eve adventure. His journey helps rekindle his love for the holiday season. The movie features Lil Rel Howery and Chris “Ludacris” Bridges in the lead roles.
Chris “Ludacris” Bridges portrays Eddie Garrick, a compassionate and kind man who has distanced himself from Christmas due to a traumatic childhood event. At the behest of his estranged wife, Allison Garrick (Teyonah Parris), Eddie embarks on a Christmas Eve outing with his 9-year-old daughter, Charlotte (Madison Skye Validum).
During their journey, they encounter a mysterious man in a red suit named Nick, played by Lil Rel Howery. Eddie, who works as a social worker, initially believes Nick to be delusional and in need of professional assistance. However, a confrontation with a local politician (Oscar Nuñez) leads to a magical adventure that just might help Eddie rediscover his faith in Christmas.
Directed by Tim Story and written by Scott Rosenberg, “Dashing Through the Snow” is produced by John Jacobs and Will Packer, with Tim Story, Johanna Byer, Ross Fanger, and Zac Unterman serving as executive producers. The film also features Teyonah Parris, Madison Skye Validum, Oscar Nuñez, Ravi V. Patel, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Gina Brillon, Sebastian Sozzi, Kevin Connolly, and Zulay Henao.
New Disney Munchlings Advent Calendar Available At Walt Disney World!
Get ready for the holiday season with this Disney Munchlings Advent Calendar available now at Walt Disney World, as well as, online at shopdisney for $149.99! You will get a different plush every day for all 12 days of Christmas from the Season’s Sweetings collection. It comes in a tasteful holiday house-shaped box with sprinkles that opens to reveal 12 windows plus a ”Nice List” and a ”Naughty List.”
The tumbler is very colorful like Lizzie herself with a see through pink color, lime green lid and reusable straw with a flower straw topper. It also features animated Lizzie in different poses and “stickers” with different saying all around, super cute!
You can take a closer look at this tumbler in our Instagram post:
If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing Disney magic mixed with the amazing views of Australia and New Zealand, your dreams are about to come true! On October 28, the Disney Cruise ship started its first journey from Australia.
These exclusive sailings aboard the Disney Wonder are nothing short of magical, offering durations ranging from a quick two-night getaway to an immersive six-night adventure. What’s more exciting is that these cruises depart from four strategic home ports – Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane in Australia, and the vibrant city of Auckland in New Zealand. These itineraries will continue through February 2024, ensuring plenty of opportunities for families in the region to hop on and experience this enchantment.
For those new to the Disney Cruise Line experience, it’s not just about the destinations. It’s about the journey too. ‘Disney Magic at Sea’ cruises are the epitome of Disney’s commitment to providing world-class entertainment, unique spaces, and immersive dining experiences. It’s a voyage where guests don’t just explore new destinations but also the quintessential charm that has made Disney Cruise Line a coveted vacation choice for many.
Thankfully, the magic doesn’t end in early 2024! The enchantment continues as Disney Cruise Line has already announced its plans to return to the pristine waters of Australia and New Zealand for a second season of vacations. This time, with a set of itineraries that can only be described as ‘bucket-list worthy’.
Starting in the Fall of 2024, the Disney Wonder will embark on an awe-inspiring journey from Vancouver, Canada. It will touch the sunny shores of Honolulu, Hawaii, in late September with pit stops at the exotic islands of Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii, finally docking in the bustling Oahu. From Hawaii, families will be treated to a transpacific voyage, a journey to Sydney that will weave through the serene waters of the South Pacific. Guests will have the golden chance to visit dream destinations like Fiji, American Samoa, and New Caledonia, making memories that will surely last a lifetime.
For Disney enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, these new sailings offer a unique blend of the Disney magic we all adore and the unmatched beauty of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. With such a promising itinerary and the promise of unparalleled Disney entertainment, this is one cruise experience you wouldn’t want to miss!
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’s Jollywood Nights is proving to be a very popular holiday event. The event, which is in its inaugural year, promises a night of glitz, glamor, and fun befitting the golden age of Hollywood theme of Hollywood Studios. If you have not yet purchased your tickets, you may want to do so sooner or later: another night has sold out!
Jollywood Nights runs on select nights in November and December. Here is the lineup of dates for this year:
Saturday, November 11 – SOLD OUT
Saturday, November 18 – SOLD OUT
Monday, November 20
Monday, November 27
Wednesday, November 29
Monday, December 4
Wednesday, December 6
Saturday, December 16 – SOLD OUT
Monday, December 18
Wednesday, December 20
The price for tickets ranges from $159 to $179. Annual Passholders and eligible Disney Vacation Club Members are able to snag a discount on tickets for select nights. During the event, guests can experience an all-new stage show inspired by the glitz and glamour of vintage Hollywood TV specials, appearances from special guest stars, including Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Tiana, Belle, Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse, a dreamlike adventure inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas featuring Jack Skellington, after-hours access to favorite rides and coasters, and more!
Will you be attending Jollywood Nights this year? So are we! Leave us a comment to let us know when you will be going!
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!
Comcast has released the 3rd Quarter Earnings Report for Universal Theme Parks
Universal Theme Parks provide epic thrills in parks located around the world. The strength of Comcast’s theme park division is evident when analyzing the third quarter earnings report, which demonstrates record-breaking earnings. Let’s dive into the numbers factors driving this impressive growth.
The numbers for Q3 reflect a positive momentum in Universal Theme Parks’ operations:
Revenue: For Q3 2023, Universal Theme Parks reported a robust revenue of $2,418 million, marking an increase of 17.2% compared to $2,064 million in Q3 2022.
Operating Expenses: Expenses went up to $1,435 million from $1,244 million in 2022, a rise of 15.4%. This rise in costs can be attributed to the demands of catering to increased guest attendance.
Adjusted EBITDA: Standing at $983 million for Q3 2023, the Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) witnessed an increase of 20.0% from $819 million in the same period of the previous year.
What is driving this stellar performance? Here are some insights highlighted by Comcast:
Bounce Back from COVID-19: The revenue growth was particularly evident in Universal’s international theme parks. These parks had been shackled by COVID-19 restrictions during the prior year. The lifting of these restrictions meant that the parks could operate at fuller capacities and entertain a larger number of guests.
Domestic Growth: Stateside, Universal Studios Hollywood saw a surge in revenue, with the star of the show being Super Nintendo World. Its continued success is a testament to the timeless appeal of beloved Nintendo characters and the immersive experiences the theme park section offers and demonstrates how well Epic Universe will do in Orlando once it is open.
Orlando’s Resilient Performance: Although there was a slight dip in the revenue for Universal’s theme park in Orlando, it’s essential to note that it’s still performing admirably above its pre-pandemic 2019 levels. This suggests that while there may be some shifts in preference or competition, Orlando remains a strong performer for Universal.
Universal Theme Parks’ impressive Q3 results underscore the pent-up demand for quality entertainment and experiences. As the world continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, this upward trend for theme parks, especially giants like Universal, looks promising.
The slight uptick in operating expenses is a natural outcome of handling increased guest attendance and is expected given the current rate of inflation. The substantial growth in Adjusted EBITDA demonstrates higher revenues the parks are experiencing more than compensate for these costs, considering the parks showed a 20% increase in revenue despite facing a 15.4% increase in operating costs.
Universal Theme Parks’ stellar performance in Q3 2023 is a bright spot in the entertainment industry’s recovery narrative. With innovative offerings like Super Nintendo World and a dedicated fan base, the future looks sunny for this entertainment behemoth.
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando 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 Universal 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 Universal vacation package through me!
