Roundup of New Years Eve Dining and Experiences Coming to Central Florida

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December 3, 2023

We have compiled several Orlando-area New Years Eve Dining and Experiences for you

Get ready to bid farewell to the old and embrace the new in the heart of Orlando as we approach the most anticipated night of the year – New Year’s Eve. The Orlando area is gearing up for a spectacular celebration, promising a night filled with excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable moments. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a sneak peek of the upcoming New Year’s Eve festivities in the Orlando area.

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“The Experience 2.GLOW” — New Year’s Eve Street Party

Ring in 2024 at the Promenade at Sunset Walk during Central Florida’s most immersive nonstop street party, Rocking New Year 2024 — “The Experience 2.GLOW.” This all-ages event will include DJ’s, live music, street performers, a laser light show, complimentary “GLOW” party favors, and of course, a special midnight fireworks spectacular. Plus, enjoy access to over 25 restaurants, shops, and experiences through the course of the night. The event kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. at Promenade at Sunset Walk. Cost is $49 plus taxes and fees, Free for Children under 5. Tickets can be purchased here.

Jaleo Disney Springs

Ring-in 2024 at Jaleo Disney Springs. This New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will feature a chef’s tasting menu, curated by Executive Chef, Kristoffer Anderson. The five-course tasting showcases a selection of fifteen dishes from the restaurant’s various activations held throughout 2023 including Jaleo’s 30th Anniversary, Strawberry Festival in partnership with Southern Hill Farms, and wine-pairing dinners. Upon being seated, guests will begin their New Year’s celebrations with a complimentary glass of Spanish Cava as their culinary journey begins. Menu items will showcase Jaleo’s festive and celebratory spirit, in addition to its homage to Spanish cuisine.

Jaleo’s New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu will be available on December 31 and is $160 per person. For reservations, visit https://www.jaleo.com/location/jaleo-disney-springs/.

Caribe Royale Orlando

The Venetian Chop House – The Venetian Chop House at Caribe Royale Orlando is hosting a special New Year’s Eve dinner to mark the end of 2023 and welcome in the new year of 2024. This dining experience will take place on Dec. 31 from 5pm to 10pm. Known as the city’s most classy fine-dining location, guests can anticipate a delectable prix-fixe menu with dishes designed by the chef to bring good luck in the coming year. Those interested in attending must make reservations in advance. The cost for adults is $135 per person, plus tax, and optional wine pairings are also available. To make a reservation, click here.
Rum Bar featuring BACARDÍ® Rum – Caribe Royale Orlando’s Rum Bar is a vibrant and immersive lounge experience that allows guests to celebrate in the spirit and spirits of Havana. With an extensive selection of Bacardí® Rum, the bar offers craft cocktails and delicious tapas, making it the perfect spot to ring in the New Year. Guests can also enjoy viewing the televised festivities from Times Square while indulging in the bar’s offerings. The Rum Bar is open from 4pm to 2am.
Calypso’s Bar & Grille – On December 31st, Calypso’s Bar & Grille is hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration. With a DJ playing your favorite songs, guests can enjoy frozen drinks, delicious bites, and creative dishes in an open-air setting. As they celebrate, they can also watch the ball-drop in Times Square on televisions placed throughout the venue. Calypso’s will be open from 11 am to 1 am that day.

Buca di Beppo

For classic food and fun, celebrate the new year at “Joe’s Small Place,” or better known as: Buca di Beppo. The Italian hot spot will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 11 am to 9:30 pm, serving its beloved menu of signature specialties enjoyed by Italian Americans for generations. The restaurant also offers catering options for groups of all sizes, available for pick-up and delivery. See here for full details to begin planning your holiday gathering.

BRIO Italian Grill

Wrap up or welcome the new year with the pleasures of Tuscan country villa at BRIO Italian Grille. Serving signature cocktails, premium wines and food that celebrates the freshest and finest ingredients. BRIO Italian Grille welcomes guests on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 11 am to 10 pm. The restaurant also offers catering options for groups of all sizes, available for pick-up and delivery. See here for full details on catering options.

TooJay’s Deli

TooJay’s Deli will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 8 am to 9 pm, serving its beloved menu of diner classics and holiday favorites. New Year’s Eve catering packages, platters and catering meals will also be available for dine-in, curbside, pick-up and delivery.

What are your plans for New Years Eve? Leave us a comment to let us know!

First Look Images Revealed For Upcoming Disney+ Original Series “Renegade Nell”

By

Marc Valentine

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December 3, 2023

First Look Images Revealed For Upcoming Disney+ Original Series “Renegade Nell”

Disney+ just dropped a sneak peek at the upcoming UK Original Series, “Renegade Nell.” It’s set to hit screens worldwide in Spring 2024, exclusively on Disney+. The series is the brainchild of BAFTA award-winning writer Sally Wainwright, the genius behind “Happy Valley” and “Gentleman Jack,” and it’s being directed by Ben Taylor, known for his work on “Sex Education” and “Catastrophe.”

Louisa Harland, from “Derry Girls,” is taking on the lead role of Nell. She’s this quick-witted and fearless young woman who gets wrongly accused of murder and ends up becoming the notorious highwaywoman of 18th-century England. And just when things can’t get any wilder, a magical spirit named Billy Blind, played by Nick Mohammed from “Ted Lasso,” enters the scene.

The cast is stacked! Frank Dillane is Nell’s unpredictable friend Charles Devereux, Adrian Lester is the cunning Earl of Poynton, and Alice Kremelberg plays Sofia Wilmot, a widow on a mission for power. Joely Richardson is an eccentric newspaper magnate, and Pip Torrens is Lord Blancheford, Sofia’s dad. Jake Dunn is Sofia’s bullying brother, and Ényì Okoronkwo is a spirited stable boy named Rasselas, joining Nell and her sisters on their quest for freedom.

“Renegade Nell” promises to be a wild ride with eight episodes, each running for 45 minutes. It’s a Lookout Point production, exclusively for Disney+. The directors include Amanda Brotchie and MJ Delaney, with Jon Jennings as Series Producer and Stella Merz as Producer.

The team of Executive Producers includes Sally Wainwright, Ben Taylor, Faith Penhale, Will Johnston, Louise Mutter for Lookout Point, and Johanna Devereaux for Disney+. Get ready for some action and fantasy!

Walt University Presents “The Life of Walt Disney” In-Person Course Coming to Marceline, Missouri

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Chris B

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December 3, 2023

Walt University is set to offer its first course about the life of Walt Disney

Walt University has announced the launch of its inaugural course centered around the life and legacy of the legendary Walt Disney. This unique in-person class, hosted in Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri, offers students an immersive experience to learn about the life and legacy of the legendary Walt Disney.

Each day of the course will feature engaging video presentations, recommended reading materials, in-class activities, informative lectures, interactive games to enhance learning, and lively discussions. Students will also embark on excursions throughout Marceline, allowing them to absorb and cherish Walt’s memories of small-town America. Additionally, the course may feature guest lecturers sharing their expertise within the realm of Disney.

Seating for this exclusive opportunity is limited, and the course fee includes all meals, along with comfortable accommodations at the Hotel Marceline. Meals will also provide the opportunity for students foster connections and camaraderie with each other. Upon completion, alumni will have the chance to contribute articles based on their newfound knowledge of Walt Disney.

Leading this immersive journey into Walt Disney’s world is Dave Tavres, an former Disneyland Tour Guide who conducted the iconic “Walk in Walt’s Footsteps” tour. He also served as an Apartment Host for Walt’s Apartment above the firehouse and as an attractions Host at Autopia, with a rich background in guest interaction. Dave’s passion for trains and Disney history later led him to become a locomotive Engineer on the Disneyland Railroad. He is a dedicated volunteer at Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn in Burbank and co-founded the Carolwood Foundation, dedicated to preserving Walt Disney’s railroad legacy.

Interested quests can visit www.WaltUniversity.com with any questions

Grand Opening Date Announced For eet by Maneet Chauhan at Disney Springs

By

Chris B

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December 3, 2023

eet by Maneet Chauhan at Disney Springs has announced an official opening date

Breaking news fellow Disney foodies. The official grand opening date for Eet by Maneet Chauhan has been announced! The restaurant, which has been the subject of a great deal of anticipation since it was announced, is set to open its doors on December 4, 2023.

Maneet Chauhan, a celebrated chef known for her innovative approach to Indian cuisine, has already made a significant mark in the culinary world with her other successful restaurants and appearances on popular television shows like “Chopped.” Her new venture, “Eet,” promises to be no exception, with a menu filled with delectable dishes that showcase her signature blend of flavors and creativity.

Located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs, eet by Maneet Chauhan will be a quick service restaurant that will offer visitors a unique culinary experience. Guests are invited to indulge in a delightful array of shareable dishes designed for everyone at their table. Options abound, from the tempting Eet Bread Service accompanied by Pimento Whipped Paneer to the mouthwatering Tandoori Chicken Poutine. Guests seeking a lighter fare can explore the selection of market-fresh salads, or create your own customized bowl with fragrant rice and a succulent kebab of their choice. To cap off your meal on a sweet note, be sure to save room for one of the many delectable desserts, such as the luscious Chocolate and Strawberry Naan or the irresistible Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.

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What menu items at eet by Maneet Chauhan are you looking forward to most? Leave us a comment and 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!

Mickey & Friends Meeting Guests in Holiday Outfits Onboard Disney Cruise Line Very Merrytime Voyages

By

Chris B

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December 3, 2023

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Disney Cruise Line Guests traveling on Very Merrytime Voyages can meet Mickey and friends in Holiday Outfits!

As the holiday season sails in, Disney Cruise Line transforms into a winter wonderland, bringing an extra touch of magic to the Very Merrytime Cruises. The festive holiday theme is brought to life by Mickey & Friends who, donned in their festive best, meet and greet guests onboard!

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The Fab 5 are decked out in super cute outfits for the holidays. Mickey and Minnie are all set for a holiday dinner party, while Goofy is having a ton of fun in a Christmas sweater.

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Chip and Dale are also joining in on the holiday fun, decked out in holiday outfits that include holiday paddy caps!

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Daisy is wearing a great holiday dress, complete with bow (and plenty of sass), while her main man Donald is wearing a great Christmas jacket.

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Mickie did not forget about Pluto, and has swapped out his normal collar for a fun Christmas collar.

The fun doesn’t stop at character Meet and Greets! Additional holiday activities aboard the Disney Cruise Line Very Merrytime Cruises may include:

Tree Lighting Ceremony
Gather round the tree with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse for a time-honored Disney tradition at sea.
New Holiday Deck Show
Join your Disney friends on the upper decks for good tidings, music and cheer as you celebrate friendship, love and family during this special time of year.
Santa Claus Sightings
Meet the one-and-only Kris Kringle himself—he’s looking forward to meeting you and is eager to hear all your holiday wishes.
Themed Activities and Crafts for Kids
Have some festive fun and get creative with Christmas cheer for the young and young-at-heart.
Holiday Merchandise
‘Tis the season to pick up exclusive, holiday-themed Disney Cruise Line gifts for family and friends—and make Christmas wishes come true.

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Note these events are subject to change and may vary between ships and itineraries.

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The Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime Voyages offer a unique way to celebrate the holiday season. It’s a magical blend of the high seas adventure and the festive cheer, with Mickey & Friends at the heart of it all. Whether you’re a family with kids or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, the holiday cruises promise unforgettable memories. Contact your travel agent or head over to the Disney Cruise Line website to book your Very Merrytime Cruise today!

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!

Dig into this Boozy Gingerbread Cheesecake from Amorette’s in Disney Springs

By

Sara

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December 3, 2023

Dig into this Boozy Gingerbread Cheesecake from Amorette’s in Disney Springs

Another holiday treat available at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs is the Gingerbread Cheesecake. It is a tasty treat but definitely one just for the grown ups!

This holiday dessert is cheesecake with gingerbread spice, Chantilly cream, and Bourbon caramel sauce. It also comes with a cute green holiday tree on top! You can enjoy this yummy cheesecake for $9.00. Keep in mind, there is alcohol in this treat!

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There is no shortage of tasty holiday treats at Amorette’s! Which one are you wanting to try?

If you’d like to plan your next Disney trip, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Photo Credit: Mary M.

New Caramel Apple Pie Shake from D-Luxe Burger in Disney Springs

By

Sara

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December 3, 2023

New Caramel Apple Pie Shake from D-Luxe Burger in Disney Springs

D-Luxe Burger in Disney Springs is offering a tasty new shake for the holiday season! The Caramel Apple Pie Shake is the perfect treat for the apple pie lover.

This decadent treat features vanilla gelato blended with dark caramel sauce, Granny Smith apple syrup, cinnamon syrup, and graham cracker crumbs topped with whipped cream, caramel, and graham cracker crumbs. It’s like an apple pie in drink form! You can enjoy this shake for $7.75.

At D-Luxe Burger you’ll find all-American staples like the Classic Cheeseburger and the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich—as well as the delicious Plant-Based Burger. Feeling saucy? Try the popular Barbecue Burger, which features 2 pressed signature blend patties topped with a fried onion ring, Muenster cheese, bacon, barbecue sauce and lettuce.

There’s also a great section of the menu devoted to shakes and floats. It’s the perfect all-American combo!

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

Shanghai Disneyland Shares First Look at Zootopia Popcorn Bucket and Sipper

By

Sara

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December 3, 2023

Shanghai Disneyland Shares First Look at Zootopia Popcorn Bucket and Sipper

The new Zootopia-themed land coming to Shanghai Disneyland is opening on December 20th! Two souvenirs are also coming-a Zootopia popcorn bucket and a Zootopia sipper.

The Hopps Family Popcorn Bucket looks like the Hopps Family Farm stand seen in “Zootopia.” Judy and two of her siblings are inside selling carrots. The top of the bucket opens and a carrying strap is attached.

The sipper is a Nick Wilde Pawpsicle sipper and features a young Nick Wilde. He can be seen peeking over a giant “pawpsicle.” The stick of the “pawpsicle” hides the straw of the sipper. It also comes with a carrying strap.

Which souvenir would you like to add to your Disney collection?

Ready to plan your next Disney vacation? 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 Donates Additional 75,000 Toys to Toys for Tots

By

Sara

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December 2, 2023

Disney Donates Additional 75,000 Toys to Toys for Tots

This past week for Giving Tuesday Disney announced that its Toy Drive has provided grants to Toys for Tots that will deliver 75,000 toys to children in need. That’s in addition to over 16,000 toys that have been collected so far this holiday season for the Marine Toys for Tots Program.

The donation was announced earlier this week on ABC’s “Good Morning America” by host Ginger Zee, where Staff Sergeant (SSgt) James Caldwell, a true hero and volunteer with a decades-long connection to Toys for Tots, was on hand with fellow Marines to help start wrapping some of the donated toys.

SSgt Caldwell previously served as the coordinator of the local Worcester, Massachusetts, Toys for Tots chapter for the past two years, though his personal connection with the organization stretches back to his early childhood.

Born into the foster care system, James found his forever family at just 6 months old when foster parents Bill and Judith Caldwell took him in. At 4 years old, James was officially adopted, a day he describes as “winning the lottery” and “the greatest thing that ever happened” to him.

SSgt Caldwell remembers receiving Toys for Tots gifts every Christmas for the first decade of his life, and he credits receiving these gifts as part of the reason he was inspired to join the Marine Corps to serve his country.

Now, he embraces the opportunity to give back to other children in need, carrying forward the legacy that shaped his own life. SSgt Caldwell has been involved with Toys for Tots throughout the entirety of his career and says he doesn’t remember a time when it wasn’t a part of his life.

Since Toys for Tots was founded in 1947, the same year Walt Disney and his team of animators designed the Toys for Tots logo that is still used today, Marines and volunteers have distributed 652 million toys to over 291 million children. You can be part of these efforts to inspire hope when it’s needed most this holiday season.

There are two ways to donate toys:

Donate a toy online at shopDisney.com through December 24, 2023. -OR-
Donate a new, unwrapped toy in person at one of our drop-off locations now through December 15, 2023. For locations across the United States, visit Disney.com/toydrive.

Disney’s Frozen the Musical Performs at The White House

By

Marc Valentine

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December 2, 2023

Disney’s Frozen the Musical Performs at The White House

On Monday, November 27, First Lady Jill Biden hosted a special event at The White House for the official unveiling of the holiday and seasonal décor. The distinguished guests included the stars of Frozen – Caroline Bowman (Elsa), Lauren Nicole Chapman (Anna), Jeremy Davis (Olaf), Dominic Dorset (Kristoff), and Preston Perez (Hans) – who delivered a captivating performance featuring highlights from the Tony®-nominated Best Musical.

In line with her Joining Forces initiative aimed at supporting military families, the First Lady extended a warm invitation to National Guard families, making them the first members of the public to witness the festive White House decorations. Following her holiday message, the children of National Guard families were treated to a magical performance by the talented cast from the North American tour of Disney’s stage musical, Frozen.

The audience responded with a resounding ovation, and the First Lady expressed her gratitude, commending the cast as “amazing” for their outstanding performance.

Celebrated by The New Yorker as both “thrilling” and “genuinely moving,” Frozen has dazzled audiences with its smash engagements, “thawing hearts from coast to coast!” (The Hollywood Reporter). Critics unanimously declare its enchantment, with the LA Daily News affirming, “It’s simply magical!”

Frozen boasts four global productions, currently enchanting audiences in Tokyo, London, and Hamburg. The Tony®-nominated Best Musical concluded its Broadway run in March 2020, breaking four house records at The St. James Theatre. Since its 2019 Los Angeles premiere, the North American tour has welcomed over 2 million guests.

Produced by Disney Theatrical Group and helmed by Andrew Flatt, Anne Quart, and Thomas Schumacher, Frozen’s stage adaptation features the beloved songs from the original Oscar®-winning film, along with a dozen new numbers by Oscar winner Kristen Anderson-Lopez and EGOT winner Robert Lopez. The creative team, with a collective 16 Tony Awards, includes Oscar winner Jennifer Lee (book), Tony and Olivier Award winner Michael Grandage (director), and Tony winner Rob Ashford (choreographer).

For information, visit FrozenTheMusical.com/Tour, Facebook and Instagram.

Unwrap a Holiday Sweets Petite Cake from Amorette’s in Disney Springs

By

Sara

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December 2, 2023

Unwrap a Holiday Sweets Petite Cake from Amorette’s in Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs has lots of holiday treats! We tried the Holiday Sweets Petite Cake recently and it was delicious.

The Holiday Sweets Petite Cake is layers of spice cake, cream cheese icing, and apricot jam with fresh apple compote and Italian buttercream. It’s decorated with holiday sweets like a gingerbread man, candy cane, and chocolate chip cookies.

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You can enjoy this holiday treat for $22. It tastes just like Christmas!

Ready to plan your next visit to Disney World? Contact me today to start planning! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.

Photo Credit: Mary M

New Mickey & Friends Tree Lighting Ceremony on Very Merrytime Cruises

By

Sara

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December 2, 2023

New Mickey & Friends Tree Lighting Ceremony on Very Merrytime Cruises

Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime sailings are offering a new Mickey & Friends Tree Lighting Ceremony! On the first night of the sailing, guests can enjoy a small festive show in the atrium with Mickey Mouse and friends. There’s even a special guest at the end!

Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto invite guests to join them in singing Christmas carols in the atrium of the ship. All four characters are dressed in fun holiday attire. They all sing and dance to songs like “Deck the Halls”, “Jingle Bells”, and “Let it Snow”. During that last song, Pluto throws fake snow into the audience.

After singing a few holiday tunes, Mickey and his friends lead the audience in a countdown to light the tree and other holiday lights around the atrium. After the tree is lit, some special guests come down the staircase.

Santa and Mrs. Claus greet all of the guests and then join Mickey and friends in singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”. You can see the full show in our video below:

Are you ready to join Mickey & friends on a Very Merrytime cruise? 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.