Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park reopened November 13, 2022 providing guests with an array of arctic adventure amid the warm climate in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Guests experienced the new touches from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Frozen inside Tikes Peak, as well as plenty of mouthwatering culinary creations and popular polar attractions (Amy Smith, photographer) .
(Amy Smith, photographer) .
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Reopening on Nov. 6th
Prepare to dive into a winter wonderland like no other as Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park eagerly announces its reopening on November 6th, marking the start of another season of enchanting aquatic adventures. As temperatures cool outside, the magic heats up at Blizzard Beach, offering guests a unique and thrilling experience in the heart of the festive holiday season.
Nestled within Walt Disney World Resort, Blizzard Beach is a beloved destination that seamlessly combines the thrill of water attractions with a whimsical winter theme. Whether you’re racing down the exhilarating water slides, lazily drifting along the lazy river, or enjoying the family-friendly attractions, Blizzard Beach promises a magical escape for visitors of all ages.
(Amy Smith, photographer).
As the park welcomes guests back, it’s not just about the thrilling water attractions. Blizzard Beach embodies the spirit of the holidays, creating a festive atmosphere that adds an extra layer of magic to the entire experience. From the snowy-themed decor to special holiday-themed events and activities, visitors can expect a perfect blend of winter enchantment and water-filled fun.
So, gear up for a season of joy and laughter as Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park opens its gates once again, inviting guests to embrace the magic of winter in the most unexpected and delightful way possible.
Universal Annual Passholders receive a bevy of benefits throughout the year. From expansive in-park discounts on food and merchandise to exclusive hotel discounts at Universal Resort Hotels to free parking and valet parking (depending on pass type, of course), the perks are seemingly endless. Universal also offers additional seasonal perks throughout the year, and we have the full lineup of this years holiday Annual Passholder perks ready to share with you.
Annual Passholders can snag a discount of $10 off the regular price of the Universal Holiday Tour. The tour is a walking tour that includes all things holidays at Universal, including Grinch meetings, reserved show seating, tasty food and more!
All Passholders eligible to receive discount, Seasonal Passholder block out dates apply. Restrictions apply
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast Discount
This discount is applicable for Premier and Preferred passholders only, and provides a 20% off the regular price of the breakfast. This fan-favorite event, which always sells out quickly, provides a good morning feast with the mean, green one himself!
Select Dates: November 17–19, 22–26, 30 December 1–3, 7–10, 13–27
Offer valid for Premier and Preferred Passholders only. Separate theme park admission or a valid Annual Pass is required and must be valid for the same date as the breakfast. Advance reservations are required. Restrictions apply.
Lounge Hours Extension
The UOAP Lounge in Universal Islands of Adventure will open early and stay open late so you can relax and recharge a little longer. Stop by from park open to park close Nov. 17—Dec. 31, 2023.
Valid Annual or Seasonal Pass and photo ID required for entry. Space is limited and is first come, first served.
Special Holiday Parade Passholder Viewing Area
Passholders can take in Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s on select dates from a special viewing area in front of Mel’s Drive-In in Universal Studios Florida.
Visit the Universal Orlando Resort App for more information on Universal’s Holiday Parade schedule.
Space is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Unique UOAP Car Decal
Spruce up your ride with this festive new decal. From Nov. 17—Dec. 31, 2023, Passholders can receive one (1) free UOAP Holiday Magnet, while supplies last.
Pick-up locations:
Universal Islands of Adventure – UOAP Lounge in Toon Lagoon in during operating hours
Universal Studios Florida – Five and Dime from park open to park close
Passholder Holiday Merchandise Offer
Passholders who spend $125 (post-discount/pre-tax) in one (1) single transaction at select Universal Orlando-owned and operated merchandise locations will receive a $25.00 discount to be used toward one (1) future single purchase of at least $75.00 or more (pre-tax).
Discounts will be available to use on future purchases beginning the day after the qualifying purchase through January 31, 2024. Not valid on Game Plays, photos, collectibles, Universal Express Passes, gift card purchases, Merchandise Shopping Card purchases, or non-discountable merchandise, or on purchases at third-party locations and other non-retail locations.
Exclusive Menu Items
Don’t miss these Passholder exclusives! From Nov. 17—Dec. 31, 2023, Passholders can purchase an exclusive menu item at select locations.
To order a Passholder exclusive menu item, ask the venue Team Member for assistance.
Universal Islands of Adventure – Confisco Grille NEW – Winter Squash and Mushroom Risotto
Creamy arborio rice tossed with caramelized butternut squash roasted wild mushrooms, and shaved Parmesan cheese
Vegetarian – $18.95 + tax
Chicken – $20.95 + tax
Salmon – $24.95 + tax
Shrimp – $21.95 + tax
Starbucks® NEW – Snickerdoodle Latte
Blonde White Mocha Latte with Cinnamon Dolce Syrup and cinnamon in steamed milk. Topped with whipped cream and cinnamon Dolce topping.
Tall: $7.02 + tax
Grande: $7.77 + tax
Venti: $8.52 + tax
Passholder Exclusive Resort Offerings
Passholders can enjoy exclusive 2023 Holiday offerings at participating Universal Orlando Resort hotels daily, while supplies last.
Must present a valid Annual or Seasonal pass at the time of purchase.
Hard Rock Hotel® Mint Cookie Crunch Sundae – $9 + tax Mint ice cream, whipped cream, a cookie crumble, and chocolate sauce.
Location: Emack and Bolio’s Marketplace
Passholder discounts cannot be used for this item.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort Fig and Mascarpone Gelato – $5.50 + tax single scoop, $8.00 + tax double scoop.
Location: Tuk Tuk Market
Discounts: Standard Passholder food and beverage discounts apply and can be used for this item. Cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, or discounts.
Holiday White Sangria – $13 + tax (Gratuity not included) Sauvignon Blanc, pear vodka, Tequila, fresh cranberries, fresh pomegranates, rosemary, and sliced pears.
Location: Orchid Court Lounge & Sushi Bar, Jake’s American Bar
Must be 21 or older with a valid photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Passholder discounts cannot be used for this item.
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Fig and Mascarpone Gelato – $5.50 + tax single scoop, $8.00 + tax double scoop.
Location: New Dutch Trading Co.
Discounts: Standard Passholder food and beverage discounts apply and can be used for this item. Cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, or discounts.
Holiday White Sangria – $13 + tax (Gratuity not included) Sauvignon Blanc, pear vodka, Tequila, fresh cranberries, fresh pomegranates, rosemary and sliced pears.
Location: Strong Water Tavern, Amatista Cookhouse
Must be 21 or older with a valid photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Passholder discounts cannot be used for this item.
Holidays Food and Beverage Tent Discounts
Premier Passholders receive 15% off and Preferred Passholders receive 10% off at all Universal Orlando-owned and operated Holidays Food and Beverage Tents in Universal Studios Florida during normal operating hours.
Early Access to Holiday Tribute Store
On November 9, 2023, from 11:00 am–park close, Passholders will have early access before the general public to the Holiday Tribute Store.
Passholder Exclusive Coca-Cola Freestyle Souvenir Cup
Passholders can purchase an exclusive Coca-Cola Freestyle® souvenir cup for $18.99 plus tax, while supplies last.
Valid Coca-Cola Freestyle® Souvenir Cup required to dispense Coca-Cola Freestyle®. Refills are limited to no more than one (1) pour from the Coca-Cola Freestyle® machine per 10 minutes and valid day of purchase only at participating Coca-Cola Freestyle® locations. Sharing is not permitted. Non-refundable. No additional discounts apply.
Passholder Exclusive Fudge Offer
Passholders who purchase any four pieces of fudge will receive another three pieces of fudge of equal or lesser value for free. Offer valid from Nov. 17—Dec. 31, 2023.
Locations for purchase: Universal Islands of Adventure
Island Market and Export Candy Shoppe
Snookers & Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers
Honeydukes™
Universal Studios Florida
Sugarplum’s Sweetshop
San Francisco Candy Factory
Studio Sweets
Offer not available at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen.
Early Park Admission for 3-Park Passholders at Volcano Bay
On Select dates from Nov. 17—Dec. 31, 2023, 3-Park Power and Seasonal Passholders receive Early Park Admission at Universal Volcano Bay up to thirty (30) minutes prior to park opening.
Passholder Exclusive Merchandise
Starting November 17, 2023, Passholders can purchase exclusive Passholder Holiday merchandise, while supplies last.
Available Products:
Adult Tee – $27.00 + tax
Ornament – $12.00 + tax
These discounts will only be around for a limited time, so plan your holiday trip to Universal Orlando Resort and explore all of the discounted holiday offerings Universal has to offer!
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!
Joyous traditions from around the globe return to the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth Nov. 25 through Dec. 30, 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Guests will discover seasonal food and beverages, festive merchandise, holiday storytelling and uplifting entertainment, including the return of the beloved “Candlelight Processional” featuring celebrity narrators with three performances nightly. (Abigail Nilsson, Photographer)
Candlelight Processional Dining Packages are now available for booking
The Candlelight Processional is an annual holiday event at EPCOT that fans look forward to each year. Celebrity narrators help bring the story to life and often draw huge crowds. Booking a Candlelight Processional Dining Package is a great way to ensure you get a seat without waiting for hours in the stand-by line only to be turned away due to the theater being booked to capacity. I am happy to report the Candlelight Processional Dining Packages are now on sale, and once again offer a mix of advanced reservations and some same-day availability!
The Candlelight Processional will be offered this year on select nights from November 24th to December 30th, 2023. The event invites attendees to be captivated by the tale of Christmas narrated by celebrated personalities. With three showtimes available — 5:15 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:30 PM — there’s ample opportunity to schedule your evening around this highlight event.
Eight exquisite EPCOT eateries are participating in the Candlelight Processional Dining Package:
Spice Road Table (Morocco Pavilion): Dive into two small plates with a nonalcoholic beverage, and then share a tagine and dessert platter.
Other Participating Restaurants: Enjoy an appetizer, main course, and dessert or opt for a full buffet/family-style meal complemented by a nonalcoholic beverage.
Here’s a glimpse of the dining package prices (excluding tax and gratuity):
Looking for a last-minute reservation? You may want to consider the same-day dining packages at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue. Dine without reservations and then be guaranteed a seat at the evening’s Candlelight Processional performance.
The candlelight processional, and by extension the dining packages, are always in high demand, so it’s recommended to book in advance. If your selected day/time is currently not available, keep checking back; plans change, and guests due end up canceling their reservations!
Note: EPCOT admission isn’t included in the dining package price. Both valid theme park admission and a reservation are required for entry.
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!
Walt Disney Company Names New Chief Diversity Officer
Effective immediately, Tinisha Agramonte assumes the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) at The Walt Disney Company. In her capacity as Chief Diversity Officer, Agramonte will directly report to Sonia Coleman, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. Charged with leading Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy, Agramonte will play a pivotal role in guiding the company to inspire a world of belonging. This will be achieved through stories and storytellers that authentically reflect the rich diversity of our world.
“Among each of our teams and in every community where we live and work around the world, Disney is committed to building a more inclusive and respectful world,” Coleman said. “Tinisha Agramonte is an integral member of our executive leadership, and a dedicated, well-respected leader within Disney. As our new CDO, Agramonte’s expansive knowledge and expertise, having worked in a variety of industries, will allow us to continue creating a welcoming environment for our employees globally.”
Agramonte joined Disney a year ago, as Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Talent Outreach & Development with Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. She is passionate about supporting military families, veterans, and first-generation college students and corporate professionals, and is known for her strategic, data-driven approach to DEI. Throughout her career she has helped organizations become more inclusive and recognize the impact DEI has on business optimization.
“I’m honored to take on this role at a beloved brand, which impacts people around the world,” Agramonte said. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege to help foster environments where all voices are heard, where individuals from all backgrounds have equitable access and opportunities to thrive, and where innovation flourishes because of our collective strengths. I am proud to continue those efforts alongside our incredible leaders and employees here at Disney to optimally achieve our company’s mission to entertain, inform and inspire people around the globe through the power of unparalleled storytelling.”
Prior to joining Disney, Agramonte was named the first CDO at Motorola Solutions. She also served in senior executive positions with the federal government as the CDO and Director for the Office of Civil Rights in the Department of Commerce; Assistant Administrator for Diversity, Inclusion and Civil Rights with the U.S. Small Business Administration; and Director of Diversity and Inclusion Outreach and Retention with the Department of Veterans Affairs. She architected and launched the First-Generation Professionals Initiative, a first-of-its-kind federal government diversity and inclusion program. She has nearly 30 years of experience working in the U.S., Europe, and Asia in the diversity, civil rights, equal employment opportunity, and human relations arenas as a civil servant, consultant, university instructor, and trainer/facilitator.
She holds a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from California State East Bay.
The new Christmas at Hogwarts – Scentsy Warmer puts a frosted twist on the beloved Hogwarts – Scentsy Warmer design, with an enchanting addition: a projected “Christmas at Hogwarts” message, complete with a silhouette of Harry Potter™ on his broomstick.
The Christmas at Hogwarts™ – Scentsy Warmer will be available starting at 10 a.m. PT on Oct. 23rd.
You can get this amazing Christmas at Hogwarts Warmer online or from your favorite Scentsy Consultant.
Disney World & Universal Orlando Accident and Incident Report for Third Quarter 2023
The Florida theme park accident and incident report has been released for the third quarter of 2023. The report lists any incidents where guests needed at least 24 hours of hospitalization. Both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando reported multiple incidents.
Aug. 23 – 69-year old man injured his neck and back on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
Aug. 25 – 73-year old woman suffered motion sickness and fainted after riding Slinky Dog Dash
Sep. 8 – 50-year old woman had a seizure after riding Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (she had an unknown pre-existing condition)
Epcot
July 8 – 43-year old woman “became disoriented” after riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Aug. 7 – 33-year old woman had “abdominal pain” after riding Mission: SPACE (she had an unknown pre-existing condition)
Sep. 28 – 69-year old man felt dizzy after riding Mission: SPACE (he had a pre-existing cardiac condition)
Magic Kingdom
19-year old woman “felt faint and had abdominal pain” after riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (she had an unknown pre-existing condition)
Universal Orlando Resort
July 14 – 26-year old man had “inability to speak” after riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
July 29 – 39-year old woman felt motion sick after riding Volcano Bay’s Honu of Honu ika Moana water slide
July 31 – 18-year old man had a seizure at Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket
Have you ever witnessed an accident or incidents at a theme park?
If you’d like to plan your next magical (and safe) visit to Disney or Universal, contact me for a free vacation quote. I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.
Adorable Mickey And Minnie Holiday Plush Spotted At Hollywood Studios!
These Mickey And Minnie Holiday Plush will make a great addition to your home this holiday season! We found them at Hollywood Studios as part of the new Disney Classics Christmas Collection and immediately fell in love with them.
They are dressed in their holiday best ready to impress anyone that visits your home! Mickey is wearing green velvet pants with a red best and Santa jacket and hat, while Minnie is looking beautiful in her red and white stripped dress, red shoes and Santa hat.
You can take a closer look at them in our Instagram post:
New Frozen Loungefly Backpack To Take On New Adventures!
A new gorgeous Frozen Loungefly Backpack appeared at Hollywood Studios and we are in love with it! And to make it even better, you can get it online at shopDisney as well with a markdown price of $70.40!
The backpack features a mix of purple, pink and light blue colors with iridescent details. On the front pocket, Anna makes an appearance while Elsa takes over the main part of the backpack showing her icy powers with the Arendelle castle and snowy mountains in the back.
Definitely a must have backpack fit for royalty! You can take a closer look at it in our Instagram post:
Fans can again enjoy Christmas at Hogwarts this holiday season
Universal fans, we finally have details about all of the holiday events that will be coming to Universal Orlando resort this year. We can confirm that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will once again be decked out in Christmas decor, and the Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle will be returning this year!
The breathtaking nighttime spectacle, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” is making its glorious return to Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure this holiday season. This projection show brings to life cherished Christmas moments, showcasing a tapestry of holiday spirit drawn from the iconic characters and tales of the “Harry Potter” films, leaving spectators in awe and drawing them deeper into the magical world of Harry Potter.
More AboutHolidays at Universal
Universal Orlando Resort is calling all guests to unleash their festive spirit as it unveils a spectacular holiday celebration set to commence next month. Embark on a journey through a magical blend of merriment and mischief, drawing inspiration from both holiday classics and pop culture icons.
This enchanting holiday atmosphere, unlike any other, will captivate visitors daily from Friday, November 17, through Sunday, December 31. Click here to view all of the details!
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!
You will feel powerful and regal just like Elsa when you wear these Frozen Crocs we found at Hollywood Studios! You can also order yours online at shopDisney with a markdown price of $48.99, pretty cool if you ask us!
The Crocs are white with an ombre design of blue glitter from the top down and Jibbitz charms of Elsa, Anna, snowflakes, a castle and gemstones. They are super cute and also feature a slight platform making them more stylish and fit for royalty!
Holidays at Universal Orlando Returns on November 17th Through December 31st
Universal Orlando Resort is calling all guests to unleash their festive spirit as it unveils a spectacular holiday celebration set to commence next month. Embark on a journey through a magical blend of merriment and mischief, drawing inspiration from both holiday classics and pop culture icons. This enchanting holiday atmosphere, unlike any other, will captivate visitors daily from Friday, November 17, through Sunday, December 31.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting spectacle of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. Encounter the iconic green grouch himself, the Grinch, during the whimsical Grinchmas festivities. Marvel at the dazzling floats and larger-than-life balloons parading through Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. Universal Orlando is your ultimate destination for a holiday season filled with boundless opportunities for joy and wonder.
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure
Holiday magic fills The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as the streets of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade transform into a wizarding holiday wonderland overflowing with festively themed décor, lights, garland and more. The nighttime spectacle, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” returns to Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure bringing to life a stunning projection show highlighting Christmas moments and holiday spirit inspired by the beloved characters and stories of the “Harry Potter” films.
The Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant croaking frogs also returns to Hogsmeade with a special holiday-themed performance, plus guests can groove to the music of the wizarding world’s most popular singing sensation, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, in Diagon Alley.
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida Guests will gaze in awe as beloved pop culture-inspired stories from Illumination’s Despicable Me and DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar fill the streets of Universal Studios Florida during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. These beloved stories come to life as larger-than-life balloons, colorful holiday floats and hundreds of jolly performers embark on a picturesque journey that culminates in a stunning finale including a special appearance by Santa Claus and the lighting of the magnificent 80-foot Christmas tree.
Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure Revel in the spirit of Grinchmas at Universal Islands of Adventure where the Grinch stars in the live retelling of the Dr. Seuss holiday classic, the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.”
Seuss Landing will transport guests into a whimsical atmosphere decked out with oversized candy canes, twisty Christmas trees, stunning tinsel ornaments and more. There will even be appearances from the Whos from Who-ville and a special photo opportunity that brings guests face-to-face with the mean, green one himself, the Grinch.
Mannheim Steamroller at Universal Studios Florida The top-selling holiday artist of all time, Mannheim Steamroller, will return to Universal Studios Florida to get guests into the holiday spirit with live performances on December 2, 3, 9 and 10.
If that wasn’t enough, there’s even more Holiday cheer to be found around every corner at Universal Orlando Resort with a wide variety of additional, unique add-on experiences.
Universal’s Holiday Tour Guests can enjoy a guided tour that gives them special access to all the beloved holiday entertainment experiences taking place across the destination, including:
A chance to meet the maven of mischief himself, the Grinch, and his dog, Max, while enjoying small bites, desserts and non-alcoholic beverages
Reserved seating at the “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” in Universal Islands of Adventure
A meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Santa Claus in Universal Studios Florida
An exclusive, after-hours showing of “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle”in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure to complete the night’s festivities
Universal’s Holiday Tour is available on select dates beginning November 19 through December 30, 2023 and can be booked by visiting www.UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays. Pricing begins at $79.99 per person (plus tax) and separate theme park admission with a 1-Day 2-Park Park-to-Park ticket is required.
Annual and Seasonal Passholders can get a $10 off discount per ticket per passholder with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass. Tickets for passholders can be purchased by calling 1-866-346-9350 or by visiting the UOAP Lounge in Universal Islands of Adventure. Regular Seasonal and Power Pass blockout dates apply.
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Universal Islands of Adventure The popular dining experience, “The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast,” allows guests to start their day with a deliciousbreakfast and fun appearances by the Grinch and other favorite Dr. Seuss characters.
The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast takes place in Confisco Grille in Universal Islands of Adventure on select dates November 17 through December 27 for $58.99 + tax per adult and $32.99 + tax per child (ages 3-9) and can be booked by visiting www.UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays.
Premier and Preferred Annual Passholders can receive a 20% discount on purchases of The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast for select dates by calling 407-224-7554.
The Holiday Celebration Continues at Universal CityWalk and Universal Orlando’s Hotels Guests can keep the celebration going at Universal CityWalk with seasonal food and beverage and special entertainment. Plus, all eight Universal Orlando Resort hotels will be decked out with festive décor that enhances each hotel’s theme – and the whole family can indulge in holiday feasts and activities. Special menus will be available at Universal hotels for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, and there will also be menorah lighting ceremonies and more. Select hotels even offer special holiday entertainment like Christmas tree lightings and strolling carolers. Guests can now save 20% on a four-night stay in the 2-bedroom suites at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites & Surfside Inn and Suites and the family suites at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.
Get 2 Days of Park Admission Free with a Can’t-Miss Ticket Offer Access to Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration is included with regular admission to the theme parks. U.S. and Canada residents can now take advantage of an incredible deal giving them five days of access to Universal Orlando Resort’s thrilling theme parks for the price of a three-day ticket to enjoy the ultimate holiday getaway. Guests also have the option to upgrade their ticket to include Universal Volcano Bay. Click here for more information and to purchase.
Special Experiences for Annual Passholders In addition to discounts on select holiday experiences, Annual Passholders will get special access to enjoy Universal’s Holidays Parade featuring Macy’s from a viewing area just for Passholders, as well as exclusive merchandise and early access to the Holidays Tribute Store.
The Holidays celebration runs daily from November 17 through December 31 at Universal Orlando Resort and from November 24 through January 1, 2024 at Universal Studios Hollywood. For more information about Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays.
Disney Legends Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of The Walt Disney Company at Walt Disney’s Historic Mansion
On the evening of Monday, October 16, 2023, the Friends of Woking Way hosted an intimate gathering at Walt Disney’s historic Mansion to commemorate the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company. Event coordinator Dusty Sage and publicist Jeffrey R. Epstein brought together a distinguished group of attendees, including Disney Legends like Tony Baxter, Bill Farmer, Bob Gurr, and Floyd Norman, along with Bret Iwan, Michael-Leon Wooley, John Stamos, Caitlin McHugh Stamos, and members of the Disney family.
[We’re celebrating] the fact that Roy talked his brother Walt into coming to California and that [their] Uncle Robert welcomed them into his home… and gave them the garage of his house when he saw that grandpa needed someplace to do his art,” said Walt’s granddaughter Joanna Miller. “Thank you so much for having this party, so we can be in this special place to thank Roy and Walt.”
During the event, guests savored delectable hors d’oeuvres provided by Well Done! Catering while mingling in the enchanting mansion that Walt Disney constructed for his family in 1932. The Disney family resided in this remarkable residence until 1950, a period during which the Disney team created iconic cinematic masterpieces such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Dumbo, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Bambi, and Cinderella.
The evening’s program included a special tribute to the legacy of Disney, a sneak peek at the upcoming season of the “Wonderful World of Walt” shorts, skillfully crafted by Creative Capers. The celebration also featured a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” in honor of Bob Gurr, who will celebrate his 92nd birthday next week, humorously noting that he is only eight years younger than the company itself.
“We put together this little soiree so we could do a proper celebration of the gentlemen who made the Disney company something we all love so much,” said event organizer and house historian Dusty Sage. “Here’s to Walt and Roy Disney—and all the people with us here today who are themselves a piece of Disney’s magical century.”
Dusty Sage – MiceChat
Guests had the opportunity to explore the historic mansion through guided tours and were treated to a soul-stirring performance of Walt’s favorite song, “Feed the Birds,” delivered by Michael-Leon Wooley. As a remarkable parting gift, attendees received a unique print of Walt Disney, drawn by Floyd Norman and autographed by both Norman and Bob Gurr.
