Holidays at Universal Hollywood Returns on November 24th Through January 1st

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October 22, 2023

Guests can enjoy Holidays at Universal Hollywood from November 24th through January 1st

Universal Studios Hollywood is all set to immerse visitors in the festive spirit. From November 24, 2023, to January 1, 2024, the theme park will be transformed into a winter wonderland. The most enticing part? Every special holiday event is included in your theme park admission!

Hogsmeade™ is set to welcome visitors with its quaint village charm, enhanced by shimmering lights, festive wreaths, and garlands. As guests stroll through, they’ll be serenaded by the a cappella melodies of the Frog Choir. While there, it’s almost a tradition now to sip on a comforting warm Butterbeer™ or to indulge in holiday specialties at the Three Broomsticks™.

As night falls, the Hogwarts™ Castle is a sight to behold. The impressive “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle” light show will illuminate the iconic structure, syncing visuals with the enchanting music from the Harry Potter film series. For those wanting a piece of this magic to take home, exclusive holiday-themed merchandise awaits.

Holiday visits to Universal require a stop in Who-ville. The Dr Suess themed area is once again ringing in the holiday season in style. The Who-Bee Doo-Wops, the newest musical sensation from this whimsical world, will be performing jolly holiday classics. In the heart of Universal Plaza, the grand 65-foot “Grinchmas” tree will proudly stand, decked out in countless ornaments and bright LED lights. The daily tree lighting event, complemented by a soft snowfall display, promises to be a visual treat.

Guests can also capture their memories with the Grinch™ and his loyal dog Max, engage in story sessions with Cindy-Lou Who, or even send out a merry postcard from the Who-ville post office. And for the crafty ones, there’s an opportunity to create holiday-themed crafts or to relish in sweet delights like the special Grinch Donut.

Universal CityWalk is also participating in the festivities. The area will gleam with holiday decorations, crowned by a grand 40-foot Christmas tree. Culinary delights await visitors, be it the seasonal milkshake from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, or the festive offerings from Voodoo Doughnut. Several outlets, including NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Jimmy Buffett’s® Margaritaville®, and VIVO Italian Kitchen, have also rolled out special holiday drinks. However, it’s essential to remember that alcoholic beverages are strictly for those aged 21 and above, and a valid ID is a must.

More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Admission to Universal CityWalk is free. More information is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com.

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!

Disney Africa and LIFT Unveil Plane for ‘May Your Wishes Come True’ Campaign

By

Chris B

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October 22, 2023

New plane unveiled for the Disney Africa and LIFT ‘May Your Wishes Come True’ Campaign

The Walt Disney Company Africa has joined forces with LIFT Airlines to launch a distinctive aircraft livery heralding the festive South African campaign titled ‘May Your Wishes Come True’. The plane is decked out in Disney theming, featuring a variety of Disney characters including Mickey, Minnie, Moana, Black Panther, Elsa, Spidey, and Grogu.

The Disney-themed plane (bearing the tail number ZS-GAS) will grace the South African skies, operating between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Onboard, passengers will be treated to delightful Disney and LIFT surprises, making travel for families even more enchanting during the bustling holiday period.

Christine Service, senior vice president of The Walt Disney Company Africa, expressed excitement over the venture. “Our 100th anniversary is a tribute to the fans and storytellers who have fueled Disney’s enchantment for a century. We’re elated that our partnership with LIFT will amplify the joy for all ages this festive season.”

Luke Roberts, another executive from Disney Africa, highlighted the ‘May Your Wishes Come True’ campaign, dubbing it as Disney’s “largest retail campaign” that is set to be available from November. “This collaboration with LIFT captures the essence of togetherness, a sentiment we all value, especially during the holidays,” Roberts added.

LIFT’s CEO, Jonathan Ayache echoed the sentiments, stating, “Disney’s legacy of family love and magic resonates with LIFT’s brand values. Together, we’re ushering in the festive season’s spirit of unity and celebration.”

To seize the opportunity to fly aboard the ‘#DisneyandLIFT’ plane, customers can book their flights via www.lift.co.za. Besides the Disney magic, passengers can anticipate the usual LIFT amenities such as complimentary snacks, vida e caffè coffee, and exceptional cabin crew service. Moreover, LIFT continues to offer its flexible flight change policy, allowing hassle-free alterations and cancellations up to 24 hours before takeoff.

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!

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens welcomes Wekiva Island

By

Chris B

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October 22, 2023

Central Florida Zoo announces partnership with Wekiva Island

Nestled on the serene banks of the Wekiva River, Wekiva Island has long cherished Central Florida’s enchanting river otters. Such is the adoration that their very own wine and craft beer lounge is named ‘The Tooting Otter’ in tribute to these water-loving creatures.

This fondness recently took a significant leap forward. In collaboration with the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Wekiva Island will proudly sponsor the Zoo’s otter enclosure.

In its role as sponsor, Wekiva Island has made a significant contribution that will sustain the Zoo’s adorable otter, Molly, throughout the year. As a token of appreciation, the Wekiva Island emblem will grace the Zoo premises and its digital portal.

Expressing gratitude, Richard E. Glover, Jr., the Zoo’s CEO remarked, “Wekiva Island has been a pillar of strength and generosity for Seminole County. Their consistent contributions, both in kind and spirit, have been invaluable to our Zoo’s mission. We’re truly honored to have such a committed partner.”

To kick off their official patronage of the otter sanctuary, Wekiva Island is organizing a Seafood Boil fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 21. This delightful event aims to gather funds to ensure Molly’s well-being for the year. Their unwavering support for the Zoo isn’t new; they’ve been integral to events like ‘Brews Around the Zoo’ and even hold esteemed positions on the Zoo board.

Positioned beautifully in Longwood alongside the Wekiva River, Wekiva Island has been a symbol of community spirit in Seminole County for over a decade and a half. Their ethos revolves around sustainability, creativity, and knowledge dissemination. And in 2023, they’ve chosen the Zoo as their charitable focus.

Bill Weinaug, the visionary behind Wekiva Island, shared, “The ethereal beauty of the Wekiva River was our inspiration. And what better way to honor our roots and support the community than by championing the conservation endeavors of the Zoo, especially concerning a creature symbolic of the Wekiva River.”

Much like the waters of Wekiva River, North American river otters, including the Zoo’s Molly, are native to freshwater and coastal marine territories in North America. They epitomize the biodiversity of Central Florida—a treasure both the Zoo and Wekiva Island pledge to safeguard.

About Wekiva Island

Located on the beautiful Wekiva River, Wekiva Island offers visitors the chance to experience the real Florida. The natural attraction features more than 2,000 square feet of entertainment along the riverfront, including activities from canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding to volleyball and cornhole. Wekiva Island hosts regular monthly events. The Tooting Otter bar offers a selection of craft beer and wine, and Without a Paddle Café serves up a full menu, including for special events.

Guests can also purchase gifts or souvenirs at the General Store. In addition, Wekiva Island features a unique art gallery that showcases natural works from around the world, as well as offers classes, events and more. Corporate meeting space, event venues and private cabana rentals are available at Wekiva Island. Sustainability and a passion for the environment is at the heart of the organization’s mission. Wekiva Island is located at 1014 Miami Springs Drive in Longwood, Florida. For more information, visit wekivaisland.com or call 407-862-1500.

About the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to over 300 animals in Sanford, Florida. As a not-for-profit organization, it is a leader in conservation, creating connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife. More information is available at www.centralfloridazoo.org.

Prepare for adventure with Disney’s Frozen Collection from Scentsy

By

Chip

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October 22, 2023

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Take an incredible journey with the Disney Frozen Collection from Scentsy, now featuring the new Disney Anna – Scentsy Buddy and the fragrance this beloved character inspired, Born to Lead.

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Frozen continues to be one of Disney’s most popular animated franchises, so we’re also bringing back customer-favorite fragrances and products featuring Disney’s Elsa, Olaf, and Bruni just in time for the gifting season.

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The collection will be available starting Nov. 13th from your favorite Scentsy Consultant!

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Here are the purchasing options for this enchanting collection

New! Disney Anna – Scentsy Buddy + Born to Lead – Scent Pak, $55
Disney Elsa – Scentsy Buddy + The North Calls – Scent Pak, $55
Disney Olaf – Scentsy Warmer, $90
Disney Bruni – Scentsy Buddy Clip scented in The North Calls fragrance, $20
New! Born to Lead – Scent Pak, $7.50
The North Calls – Scent Pak, $7.50
Born to Lead – Scentsy Bar, $6.50 (Find the strength inside you with a daring mix of orange and melon emboldened by vanilla)
The North Calls – Scentsy Bar, $6.50 (The Frozen The North Calls Scentsy Disney Bar smells like an empowering mix of berry and grapefruit, lily of the valley and a touch of marine)
Olaf: Warm Hugs – Scentsy Bar, $6.50 (Olaf from Disney’s Frozen just wants to be loved (but also have fun!). This fragrance smells like cool mint, snow-covered woods and warm vanilla)

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Disney products cannot be purchased using Host Rewards or Perpetual Party Rewards, and this warmer is not available in Bundle & Save.

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Individual Scentsy Bars and Scent Paks can be added to licensed 3-packs or 6-packs in Bundle & Save.

You can get this fan-favorite Frozen collection online or from your favorite Scentsy Consultant.

Sleeping Beauty Castle Receives Winter Decorations in Disneyland

By

Sara

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October 22, 2023

Sleeping Beauty Castle Receives Winter Decorations in Disneyland

It may still be October, but Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland has already received winter decorations. Looks like Disneyland is getting started on decorating for the holidays well in advance.

Sleeping Beauty Castle has had snow caps added to its turrets and some of the Disney100 decorations have been removed. The snow caps are added to the castle every year for the holiday season. It seems to be a little early this year as we haven’t even celebrated Halloween yet.

This is just the first step to installing holiday decor at the Disneyland Resort. We will likely see more arrive over the coming weeks as the season begins November 10. The holidays at the Disneyland Resort will run through January 7, 2024.

At Disney California Adventure, the Disney Festival of Holidays will pay homage to a rich tapestry of multicultural music, cuisine, and traditions. In the picturesque Paradise Gardens Park, Disney ¡Viva Navidad! will exuberantly celebrate both Christmas and Three Kings Day with special entertainment, appearances by the beloved Mirabel from “Encanto,” and an array of delectable authentic Mexican dishes.

Radiator Springs undergoes a festive transformation, with Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree taking on the enchanting moniker of Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, and Luigi’s Rollicin’ Roadsters transforming into Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl.

Over at Disneyland Park, you can revel in the enchanting A Christmas Fantasy Parade featuring cherished characters such as Mickey & Friends, the beloved “Frozen” characters, iconic Disney Princesses, and the one and only Santa Claus. Meanwhile, “it’s a small world” will be adorned with its delightful holiday overlay, and the spook-tacular Haunted Mansion Holiday will continue to thrill.

As the night falls, guests will be treated to the mesmerizing “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks display at Disneyland and the captivating “World of Color – Season of Light” show at Disney California Adventure.

Ready to celebrate the holiday season at the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today 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.

It’s a Small World Closing Soon for Holiday Overlay

By

Sara

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October 21, 2023

It’s a Small World Closing Soon for Holiday Overlay

“it’s a small world” at Disneyland is closing soon to install the ride’s holiday overlay. The attraction will close on October 23 and reopen as “it’s a small world holiday” on November 10 when the holiday season officially begins at the Disneyland Resort.

Every holiday season the iconic attraction is transformed into a beautiful holiday experience. Festive lights adorn the facade of the ride while inside the ride is full of whimsical décor. The dolls sing the classic “It’s a Small World (After All)” song along with traditional holiday tunes.

The holidays at the Disneyland Resort will run from November 10, 2023 through January 7, 2024. Both theme parks will be decked out in holiday decor and feature festive offerings like holiday parades and nighttime shows. Several rides, along with “it’s a small world”, will receive holiday overlays. Downtown Disney will be transformed into a holiday wonderland as well.

Ready to celebrate the holidays at the Disneyland Resort? Contact me and let’s start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Disney Reports ESPN Profits Plummet by 20%

By

Chip

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October 21, 2023

Disney Reports ESPN Profits Plummet by 20%

Struggling sports giant ESPN, owned by Disney, has witnessed a significant 20% profit decline in the first nine months of the fiscal year, revealing the impact of cable subscribers cutting the cord. The usually private financials of ESPN were disclosed as Disney actively seeks a strategic investor for what was long considered its crown jewel.

According to a recent SEC filing, Disney disclosed that its sports segment, encompassing ESPN, ESPN-related channels, streaming service ESPN+, and sports channel Star India, experienced a 20% profit plunge to $1.48 billion in the initial three quarters of fiscal 2023. Sales also declined by 1.3% to $13.2 billion.

In the third quarter of this year, the sports unit reported a profit of $854 million on sales of $4.3 billion. More than half of this revenue, $2.6 billion, was derived from cable and satellite TV subscribers, while roughly $1.15 billion came from advertising.

Amid challenges such as cord-cutting and escalating sports rights fees, Disney CEO Bob Iger has openly acknowledged the struggles facing its cable business. In a bid to address these challenges, Disney plans to offer its ESPN cable network as a streaming service for cord-cutters and is exploring distribution partnerships, having engaged in talks with Verizon and T-Mobile.

While the exact value of the sports division is yet to be determined, one Bloomberg analyst estimated its worth at up to $22 billion for potential partners. Disney’s move to seek a strategic investor for ESPN reflects the changing landscape of media consumption and the company’s efforts to adapt to evolving consumer preferences.

Marvel Studios Deadpool 3 Delayed

By

Marc Valentine

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October 21, 2023

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Marvel Studios Deadpool 3 Delayed

Deadpool 3, initially set for a May 3, 2024 release, faces an indefinite delay, with neither Marvel nor 20th Century Studios having announced a new release date.

Anticipations of a Deadpool 3 delay were growing among fans due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, which increasingly appeared to impede the completion of the film’s production. Recent reports confirm these suspicions, as the Actors’ Strike remains unresolved, requiring the cast and crew to regroup before resuming filming.

Deadpool 3 had been in production since May of the current year, persisting through the WGA Strike thanks to a completed script but was ultimately halted in July when the Actors’ Strike came into effect. The director of Deadpool 3, Shawn Levy, had been preparing fans about this setback, suggesting its likelihood during a recent interview with The Wrap.

Levy told The Wrap, “I don’t even know if we officially have [a release date]. I know we were gonna be on May 3. Certainly, the actors’ strike and the long pause in production have put that release date at true risk. We’ve shot half the movie. I’ve edited half the movie. We’re dying to get back to work and get this movie out next year.”

There is already anticipation about Marvel’s strategy to rescue its 2024 lineup. The prevailing and most plausible expectation is that the studio will prioritize “Captain America: Brave New World,” which had completed production and was slated for a July 2024 release.

“Captain America 4” could potentially assume the May release window originally reserved for “Deadpool 3,” while the studio strives to complete filming for both “Deadpool 3” and “Thunderbolts” (with the latter being in pre-production when the strikes occurred). This might result in a release for “Deadpool 3” in the fall or during the 2024 holiday season.

Deadpool 3 was amongst the hardest-hit films during the strike. Director Shawn Levy shared that Deadpool 3 was already halfway through production before shuttering for the SAG/AFTRA work stoppage. The film’s stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman have been trying to stay in superhero form, working out daily until shooting can resume.

We will continue to update our readers on the changes to every Marvel Film and television show affected by the work stoppage.

Sneak Peek at Billy Bob’s Buffet Opening October 22nd at Disneyland Paris

By

Chip

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October 21, 2023

Sneak Peek at Billy Bob’s Buffet Opening October 22nd at Disneyland Paris

Exciting news! Starting on October 22nd, Disney Village in Disneyland Paris is elevating its dining offerings with the grand opening of Billy Bob’s Buffet, a hotspot where the flavors of the West take center stage around an irresistible all-you-can-eat Tex-Mex buffet.

This iconic saloon, situated in close proximity to Billy Bob’s and La Grange, reopens its doors after an extensive five-month period of renovation and interior design enhancements. Immerse yourself in the thematic ambiance of the American West, adorned with numerous authentic accessories. Crafted by the Walt Disney Imagineering Paris teams, this revitalized dining experience not only promises delectable Tex-Mex cuisine but also invites patrons to revel in a lively yet relaxed environment.

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As Disney Village embarks on its transformative journey, aimed at enriching the overall visitor experience, the addition of Billy Bob’s Buffet, proudly sponsored by the official partner Coca Cola, bolsters the existing dining capacity of this accessible and inclusive space. Notably, the venue will remain open throughout the entirety of the construction work, ensuring guests can continue to indulge in a delightful culinary experience amid the ongoing transformation.

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Celebrate the Season: Anaheim’s Ultimate Halloween Treats & Fall Flavors!

By

Sara

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October 21, 2023

Celebrate the Season: Anaheim’s Ultimate Halloween Treats & Fall Flavors!

Fall is in full swing and guests visiting Anaheim can celebrate the season with special Halloween treats and fall flavors! Today we’re highlighting five locations to enjoy some special seasonal delights.

Le Parfait Paris

Savor the Apple Brioche – a fusion of pastry cream, sun-kissed apples, and a sprinkle of almond crumble. Warm up with beverages like our Autumn Spice Lattes or dare to sample the Blood-Streaked Croissant and the eerie Skeleton Cake.

Popbar

Experience Halloween like never before with Mummified and Halloween-themed GelatoPops. Dip into the magic of white or milk chocolate, complete with playful drizzles, festive sprinkles, and quirky edible eyes.

Mini Monster

Enjoy a festive Pumpkin Spice Thai Tea, topped with whipped cream, sprinkled pumpkin spice, and an adorable mummy marshmallow.

House of Chimney Cakes

Dare to try their Halloween ice cream specials with choices ranging from rich dark chocolate to vibrant Ube and tropical pineapple-orange soft serve.

The Westin Anaheim Resort

Witness the mesmerizing ‘Van Helsing’ chocolate exhibit crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Andy de la Cruz and his skilled team. Over 100 pounds of chocolate artistry awaits. Additionally, the Blossom Café & Market, along with Tangerine Room & Bar 1030, have unveiled a spread of Halloween-themed goodies and brews available through the end of October.

What Halloween treats do you want to try?

Ready to plan your next visit to Anaheim? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.

Disney World Theme Park Hours Released through Late December

By

Sara

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October 21, 2023

Disney World Theme Park Hours Released through Late December

Guests visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays can plan their trip in more detail as Disney World theme park hours have been released through late December. The Disney World calendar has hours listed through December 23 for all four theme parks.

Here are the hours for the theme parks for the week of December 19, 2023.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The park will be open from 9 am to 7 pm every day Dec. 19-23. Early park entry will be from 8:30 am to 9 am.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios will be open from 9 am to 9 pm each day that week except for December 20 when the park will close at 8 pm for Disney Jollywood Nights. Early park entry will be from 8:30 am to 9 am.

Epcot

Epcot will be open from 9 am to 9:30 pm every day Dec. 19-23. Early park entry will be from 8:30 an to 9 am and Extended Evening Hours will take place on December 21 from 9:30 pm to 11:30 pm.

Magic Kingdom

On December 19, 21, and 22, the park will be open from 9 am to 6 pm. The park closes early those nights for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. On December 20 and 23 the park will be open from 9 am to 9 pm. Early park entry will be from 8:30 am to 9 am each day.

Will you be visiting Disney World in December?

There’s still plenty of time to plan and book your holiday Disney trip! Contact me today to get it planned. I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!

Disney World Extends Theme Park Hours in Early November

By

Sara

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October 21, 2023

Disney World Extends Theme Park Hours in Early November

Guests visiting Walt Disney World in early November will get more time to experience the parks as Disney has extended theme park hours during that time. Three of the four theme parks have had their operating hours extended from November 5 to 11.

The new hours for Magic Kingdom are as follows:

November 5: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)
November 6: 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)
November 7: 8:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)
November 8: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)
November 9: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.)
November 10: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.)
November 11: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom park hours have shifted as well. Those are now:

November 5: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
November 6: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
November 7: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
November 8: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
November 9: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
November 10: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
November 11: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (previous hours: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)

And the hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios have been shifted for the following two dates:

November 10: 8:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. (previous hours 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.)
November 11: 8:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (previous hours 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.)

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World during this time?

There’s still time to book your holiday Disney trip! Contact me for a free vacation quote and to get your trip planned. I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!