An Insider Tip:

Disney World Celebration Buttons for your First Visit, Just Married,Anniversary, Birthday, and more:

If you're celebrating a special event at Walt Disney World, make sure you stop by ‘City Hall’ in the Magic Kingdom or ‘Guest Services' in EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom and  ask for a complimentary button to wear during your visit. (They'll give (free) you a special button with you name!) These ALWAY generate very special attention from the Cast Members as well as other guests. The buttons are 3 inches round.  Take a look and be sure to get yours – they’re free!

For more information, or to make reservations:

Please call 407-351-9530 or

e-mail us at drherron@mindspring.com,

If you would prefer, simply email us your telephone # and we’ll call you!

***2010 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Oct. 1 - Nov. 14):

If you visit Mickey from the start of Oct. through the middle of Nov., you can take a tour of the world's food at the 2010 International Food & Wine Festival.  Celebrating its 15th year, the 2010 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is going to be held from October 1- November 14th and your Epcot admission is all that’s needed to participate.  (There are, however, additional charges for several of the Festival's dinners, etc.)  There are marketplaces featuring food, wine and beer. The appetizer sized portions usually have ranged in price from $3.00 - $5.00 and provide the perfect opportunity to try traditional cuisine from around the world.  This year's International Food and Wine Festival will play host to seminars, tasting events and sumptuous dinners overseen by top Disney Chefs as well as renowned guest Chefs.  Over the course of the Festival, there will be 1,200 beer and wine seminars scheduled with complimentary samples.  AND...we hear that two restaurants will hold their grand opening in time for the Festival: Via Napoli at the Italy pavilion and La Hacienda de San Angel at the Mexico Pavilion.  Not only can you sample delicious foods and fine wines, but can also enjoy popular musicians at the nightly Eat to the Beat concerts!  You'll experience celebrity-chef cooking demonstrations, children’s activities, and the talents of street performers from acrobats to musicians. The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will take place from October 1 through November 14, 2010.

The six-week festival will showcase tastes from countries on six continents and more than 25 international marketplaces will serve tapas-sized portions of regional specialties at $3-to-$5 each (if they charge as in the past), and recommended wines and beers make perfect pairings at each kiosk. Daily complimentary wine and beer tastings serve up sips from around the world, and culinary demonstrations dish up featured taste treats. If you're like us, you'll spend several days "eating your way around the world" as Lee says!  Here are some photos of years past. Oh yes, the musical groups are "Chubby Checker" and THE Temptations (but only one of them are still with us!

***MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY (September 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30, October 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14,17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31, and November 1, 2010):

This Halloween (actually from Sept. 14^th) you can join Mickey and his friends at the Magic Kingdom for "not so scary" fun at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. The Magic Kingdom is transformed into a kid-friendly "Spooky" Party. There will be Halloween fireworks and a specially themed parade starring all of your favorite Disney characters.  During Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. Even better, you can collect delicious candy as you trick-or-treat around Magic Kingdom theme park.  You must get a separate ticket for this very special evening and ticket prices vary by the date you choose.  Remember, the tone of the event is, well, "Not-So-Scary", and is appropriate for children of all ages.

Last year our guests enjoyed:

• Trick-or-Treating in the Magic Kingdom – Where they were given Trick or Treat Bags to be used at the candy stations found throughout the Magic Kingdom. Tip: Some cast members will give more than others, but there's no limit to how many times you can go back to the same location for more.)
• " Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade " Our Mousekateers saw their favorite characters dressed up in Halloween costumes as well as the floats with Disney Villains and their beloved Disney friends. The Haunted Mansion float was incredible. This is a must see and sure don’t want to miss the ride of the Headless Horseman that precedes the parade. 8:15 and 10:30 p.m.Happy HalloWishes Fireworks – Last  year you could have seen the Disney Villains as they "trick or treat" in the sky.  By the way this is one of the best fireworks shows that Disney does. 9:30 p.m.
• Halloween Dance Parties – Folks danced the night away with their favorite Disney Characters.  There were two locations for these parties. "Stitch's Cosmic Dance Party" at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland, and "Up and Boo-gie Dance Party" at Ariel's Grotto in Fantasyland.
• Villian's Mix & Mingle - Jafar, Malificent, Cruela DeVille, The Wicked Queen, Captain Hook, The Queen of Hearts, and Judge Claude Frollo took center stage in a great Halloween production and after the show, they came down to pose for pictures.
• Remember: Characters are in their Halloween costumes so be sure to wear yours.

***Christmas at Disney -well, actually Thanksgiving THROUGH Christmas (Holiday fun begins Nov. 8 and continue through Jan. 3, 2011.):

 If you want to celebrate Christmas twice, we have the way!  Guests who believe “there’s no place like home for the holidays” can curl up in one of our cozy VacationEARS homes away from home BEFORE Christmas Week arrives and still enjoy all the Disney Christmas shows and decorations...AND...still spend Christmas at their own home!  However, Christmas week hear at Disney is the MOST MAGICAL TIME OF THE YEAR!  All the sights and sounds of the season transform our little corner of the world into a winter wonderland where holiday fun begins as early as Nov. 8!  While holiday fun begins as early as Nov. 8, many seasonal happenings continue through Jan. 3, 2011.  Remember though, while the calendar says "Winter," the temperature says "Summer."

Disney’s stocking full of cheer includes:
 

Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – On 19 magical nights between Nov. 8 and Dec. 19, you can sip cocoa, catch a “snowflake” on a fingertip and catch the spirit of the season through enchanting entertainment that includes live shows, fireworks, carolers and special character meet and greets.  The "snowflakes" are however Disney Magic!   

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which kicks off at 7 p.m. on select evenings (after regular Magic Kingdom closing), is pure Disney magic: 
Dancing gingerbread, marching soldiers and Santa’s sleigh parade down Main Street, U.S.A. to Christmas melodies during the twice-nightly “Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade” … Cinderella Castle is draped radiantly with 200,000 glistening white lights … and “Holiday Wishes, Celebrate the Spirit of the Season” fireworks lights the night sky during a pyrotechnics show orchestrated to holiday melodies.

The night wouldn’t be complete without the forecasted flurry of snowflakes (artificial of course) along Main Street, U.S.A. and a warming cup of cocoa in hand (although you'll probably be in shorts). Party-goers also enjoy complimentary cookies and apple slices and enjoy unlimited admission to favorite attractions.  This after-hours family-friendly outing takes place Nov. 8, 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 28, 30 and Dec. 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17 and 19. The evening kicks off at 7 p.m. and continues until midnight. Day-of-party ticket pricing is $59.95 ($53.95 for ages 3-9). Advance tickets are available with $6 savings for most dates.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Spectacle of Dancing Lights – Millions of brilliant bulbs blanket the backlot with dancing lights and animated displays synchronized to high-energy holiday tunes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Nov. 8, 2010, through Jan. 3, 2011.  Colorful wreaths, twirling carousels, flying angels and Santa and his reindeer bedazzle park-goers amid swirling snow flurries during The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, the ultimate Americana Holiday lights display.

Imagine, a private citizen (Jennings Osborne), overwhelmed by the spirit of the season, created his own ‘Holiday Wonderland,’ complete with a giant rotating globe with ‘Peace on Earth’ above it and a massive canopy of red lights that people could walk under. He said he wanted the people to feel like they were inside the lights, looking out. Only in America!”  In fact, originally it was only in Little Rock, at the home of Arkansas businessman Jennings Osborne. The rich tradition began some 20 years ago when he strung 1,000 lights as a Christmas gift to his daughter. After the exhibit grew larger and brighter – into millions of lights – it was transported to Walt Disney World Resort in 1995, where the light display now delights guests from all over the world each year.
 

Epcot

Holidays Around the World – Throughout World Showcase, storytellers share customs and lore from their heritage from Nov. 26-Dec. 30. Strolling around the promenade during the Holidays Around the World celebration may put you face-to-face with the good-hearted witch La Befana, known in Italy for filling children’s shoes with treats, or the jolly gift-bearer Father Christmas in the United Kingdom. There are meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus in The American Adventure, plus other legendary icons who share messages of goodwill. The celebrations of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are showcased as well.

The evening is capped by the visual splendor of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” the mesmerizing Epcot spectacular featuring fireworks, laser and water – all spruced up for the season with a spirited holiday finale.

Candlelight Processional -THE REAL CHRISTMAS STORY – The Christmas Story unfolds during this renowned event featuring celebrity narrators, a mass choir and 50-piece live orchestra at America Gardens Theatre. On Nov. 26, Isabella Rossellini is scheduled to lead off the star-studded celebrity lineup that later in the season is scheduled to include Whoopi Goldberg and Jodi Benson among. To ensure a seat for this joyous favorite, THE REAL REASON FOR THE SEASON, arrive early!  Having experienced it, we do not recommend the realated dinner package.  Restaurant seating is usually crowded, and frequently results in you missing the "special" seating at the pageant.  We find that all seats are just fine for this not to be missed event!

 

AND TONS OF SHOWS!

***MICHAEL JACKSON BACK AT EPCOT!

A week after the one year anniversary of Michael Jackson's death, Disney brought his on-screen persona of Captain EO back to life.  Apparently, after Michael's death, his fans demanded the return of Captain EO.  The film stars a much younger Jackson playing the captain of a crew whose mission is to save the world from an evil-doing character played by Oscar winning actress Anjelica Huston. It's a 17-minute film with a pre-show giving guests a look at just how a feature of this magnitude was made.

Guests will now see a new, cleaner, digitally re-mastered version of the film, along with new special effects in the theater.  You'll be surprised with the moving floor, a water gag, and more, and be amazed at all the new touches (that is if you recall the film when Reagan was president!).  The story line remains the same, including the two original songs and Jackson's iconic dance moves.  Now twenty-four years after Captain EO first debuted, you can take a new generation of Mousekateer to see Jackson in this rare on screen performance.

How is this for "When you wish upon a star!"  This is the space shuttle Discovery on April 5th lifing off over Cinderella's Castle!

and landing at Kennedy!

Oil Tragedy in the Gulf of Mexico:

Some folks are concerned that the oil tragedy in the Gulf of Mexico will derail their long-planned Orlando vacation.  As summer gets into high gear, families who planned to head to Orlando are worried about clean beaches and safe crystal clear waters. Believe it or not, we’ve had a phone call or two from folks who were concerned whether the oil spill would impact their Orlando vacation.  With Orlando located in the center of the state, our response was “absolutely not!”  When asked if a trip to the beach was still ok, our response was, currently there is no problem, but ORLANDO BEACHES are super clean and will remain that way!  There is absolutely no doubt that Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, and Sea World’s Aquatica and Discovery Cove will allow you to enjoy ocean waves,  swim with Dolphins (and even sharks), and enjoy a full day at the beach!  Who knows, even Mickey or Shamu may stop by your beach umbrella!

 If you have ANY questions, or if there is ANY thing we can do to help as you plan your trip, simply email us at <drherron@mindspring.com>or call 407-351-9530.

SUN-cerely…..Paulette and Lee

Disney Dining (Japan):

Disney Dining (Mexico with Granddaughter):

***GREAT NEWS: MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE (Begins June 6).

The “Main Street Electrical Parade” is returning to the Magic Kingdom on June 6^th. We hear Tinker Bell is to sprinkle her pixie dust to illuminate the classic parade and that the parade’s highly recognizable musical theme will be brightened by new technology.  The parade, last at Disney World in 2001, is to return to the Magic Kingdom to headline “Summer Nightastic!” June 6 through Aug. 14, 2010, and we’re told the “Main Street Electrical Parade” will be showcasing lots of features never before seen – or heard – in Florida.  Tinker Bell will lead the procession on an all-new float, and her trail of pixie dust is sure to enchant all the parade floats with new beauty along the way.  The popular pixie is supposed to wave from the basket of a balloon floating gracefully above a magical garden shimmering with fairy light.  In addition, enhanced versions of two classic favorites will return to the lineup after a 13-year hiatus – the shimmering diamond mine of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and the Pleasure Island haunts of Pinocchio.  Tech folks at Disney tell us the parade is to twinkle with approximately a half a million lights and, of those, nearly 10,000 are new “pixie dust” lights spread over the 23 parade floats.  

WHEN: Nightly beginning Sunday, June 6, and continuing through Saturday, Aug. 14, in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.

***Living with the Land (at Epcot’s The Land)

Living with the Land is a gentle 14-minute boat ride through unique indoor plant growing areas.  The first part of the ride shows tropic, desert and prairie biomes that existed before humans arrived but the best part is The Land’s experimental growing areas:

• The Production Greenhouse - where tons of tomatoes, peppers, lettuce and other vegetables are actually grown for use in The Land’s Garden Grill Restaurant and other Epcot restaurants.
• The Tropics Greenhouse -  you can see crops such as rice, sugar cane, peanuts, cacao, and bananas which are usually grown under the 60-foot dome.  
• The Aquacell -  crops include fish, alligators, catfish, tilapia, sunshine bass and American eel.
• The Temperate Greenhouse - featuring the concepts and technologies of sustainable agriculture, including intercropping, integrated pest management and specialized irrigation systems that reduce waste and increase crop production.

The Creative House , showing imaginative ways to grow crops -- without soil, hanging in the air, even on a space station. USDA scientists currently are working at The Land to develop fruit with a longer shelf life.

***DISNEY’S SUMMER SPECTACULAR SUMMER NIGHTASTIC!

From June 6 through Aug. 14, 2010, our guests will not only be able to see Disney's “Main Street Electrical Parade,” but also, experience new special effects at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, thrill to the new “Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular,” and groove to a dance party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as well as to the “Sounds Like Summer” concert series at Epcot.  Disney’s Summer Nightastic! is to run from June 6 through August 14.

Disney’s Mainstreet Electrical Parade: As noted above, you’ll certainly brighten your night with the return of one of our favorites, the Main Street Electrical Parade in Magic Kingdom Park.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: You can take a plunge or down the elevator shaft of the once-glamorous Hollywood Tower Hotel in Disney’s Hollywood Studios where new special effects make this ride almost chilling!  You see, a ride on the “fright elevator” could be down, then up, or maybe down again, or up and up—every experience is different and randomly selected by the Tower itself. There’s no way of knowing which direction you’ll go on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Summer Nightastic! Fireworks Spectacular:  (We hear this may not be entirely new, but great)'   Insiders tell us the popular firework show Magic, Music and Mayhem from Disney’s Pirate and Princess Party, complete with perimeter fireworks, will return to the Magic Kingdom during regular park hours, but will be renamed, and will have new introductory dialog. We’re told the actual show however, will be identical to 'Magic, Music, and Mayhem’ as it was shown in the second and final season of 'Disney's Pirate and Princess Party'. This probably means that it will have the small cut to the Cinderella portion of the show that was made following season 1, but will be otherwise unchanged. All 8 of the perimeter launch locations are to be in place, running from Splash Mountain around to Space Mountain.  The show will replace Wishes for the summer period for around 70 nights, beginning June 6 2010 and ending on August 14 2010.

Keep in mind, Epcot Center will be doing their classic and popular Illuminations Fireworks show over the summer, as well.  The Fantasmic show at Hollywood Studios will also probably be performed nightly. 

Sounds Like Summer Concert Series: All our guest can “rock and roll” to some of the best sounds in music played by great tribute bands that recreate classic hits of legendary music icons. These live concerts are at Epcot, only from June 12 through July 31, 2010 (three shows shows nightly: 5:45 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 8:15 p.m.).

If you are as old as lee, you’ll remember them all!  You can take them in at America Gardens Theatre—adjacent to the American Adventure Pavilion. Certainly youthful memories will return!  Just take a look

• June 12 – June 19: Stayin’ Alive – A Tribute to The Bee Gees
• June 20 – June 26: Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles
• June 27 – July 3: TBD
• July 4 – July 10: Satisfaction – The Rolling Stones Tribute Band
• July 11 – July 17: Slippery When Wet – The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute
• July 18 – July 24: 2U – A Tribute to U2

·         July 25 – July 31: Beginnings – Chicago Tribute Band

***DISNEY UNVEILS BIGGEST MAKEOVER IN MAGIC KINGDOM HISTORY!

The big news around here is that Disney is about to embark on its biggest “overhaul” in the park’s 38 year history – a huge, huge addition and revision of the Fantasyland section of the Magic Kingdom. The “overhaul” represents the largest single expansion ever, and is supposed to double the size of the existing Fantasyland.  Plans seem to call for adding a lavish ride based on The Little Mermaid, greatly expanding the very popular Dumbo children's attraction, and adding totally new interactive areas featuring Disney's best-known princesses, and more.  In addition, we hear that Disney plans to update Star Tours, the Star Wars themed simulator ride in Hollywood Studios, with new 3-D effects.  The refurbished Star Tours is supposed to debut in 2011 and the Fantasyland “overhaul” is to be completed by 2013.
 
From what we hear, the expansion at Disney’s will focus on their princesses.  We’re told that the vast majority of the Fantasyland overhaul will focus on Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and other princess heroines.  There are to be three new Princesses Experiences which will expand the traditional character meet-and-greet locations and invite guests of all ages to actually interact with Disney Princesses.  In these immersive new attractions, your little princess and you will be able to take a magical journey from Belle's cottage to the Beast's castle to meet Belle, visit Cinderella's Chateau and help her prepare for the royal ball, and celebrate Aurora's 16th birthday inside the forest cottage of the Three Fairies. But there is even more!  Insiders tell us Disney will construct individual areas -- be it a castle, cottage or chateau -- where guests can fully interact with even more of the company's best-known princesses and other characters from their movies. Children will be able to actually dance with Cinderella, celebrate Aurora's birthday with the Good Fairies, and play a role with Belle in a performance in the library of the Beast's castle.  Oh yes, the Beast's castle, taken from the 1991 film Beauty and the Beast, will also include a three-room themed restaurant.  Anyone who has a daughter or granddaughter will not want to miss this!  Each of these Princess Experiences will offer magical moments and create special memories that little princesses will still be talking about when they have little princesses of their own (and so will you)!!  

  The biggest addition is to be a Little Mermaid attraction, an enclosed ride that will carry guests through Ariel's underwater realm. It is supposed to use a ride system similar to that of the Haunted Mansion, and will move through scenes featuring characters and songs from the 1989 movie.  The Under the Sea-Journey of The Little Mermaid will be the first family musical adventure into the world of the Disney animated classic, The Little Mermaid.  Friends tell us the attraction will feature state-of-the-art special effects, new Audio-Animatronics characters and a magical and memorable musical score. 

We’ve found out that plans call for doubling the size of and relocating Dumbo the Flying Elephant to a new "circus grounds" that will include an interactive queue under a big-top tent to entertain children waiting in line.   The all new Dumbo the Flying Elephant will bring the Big Top to Fantasyland!   We’re told that Imagineers have already expanded the Dumbo story and created an entire circus filled with fun for guests who visit this beloved classic attraction.   Before boarding your favorite Flying Elephant, you will be invited inside the Big Top to enjoy the sights and sounds of Dumbo's magical circus.  The fun is doubled when even more elephants take flight in this exciting new addition to the Fantasyland skyline. 

Also, we hear that Disney will add a new Pixie Hollow character-greeting area, home to Tinker Bell and other fairies.  There is a sad note however!  To accommodate the expansion, Disney will raze most of Mickey's Toontown Fair, the smallest of the Magic Kingdom's "lands." Gone will be both of the walk-through country houses where guests were guaranteed to meet Disney's most famous characters: Mickey and Minnie Mouse.  But, folks in the know say Mickey and Minnie will get new homes near the front entrance of the park. The children's roller coaster, the Barnstormer at Goofy’s  Wiseacre Farm, will remain, though it will most likely be re-themed, probably with a circus overlay linking it to Dumbo.

The first phase of the Fantasyland expansion, including the Mermaid ride and the princess areas, is scheduled to open in 2012. Pixie Hollow will follow in 2013.

For Star Tours, which debuted in Hollywood Studios in 1989, Disney plans to add new video and dialogue sequences recorded by George Lucas’ Lucasfilm studio. The updated 3-D effects are supposed to incorporate characters from the three Star Wars prequel films released between 1999 and 2005.

Pirate Transformation at the Magic Kingdom:

Well, the little princesses have always had their day at Disney, and now the little pirates can have their day too!   As you go through Adventureland, you’re certain to see a bunch of little scoundrels, rogues and ne’er-do-wells.  It seems as if Captain Jack and the crew of the Black Pearl landed.

The Pearl has dropped anchor in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom for The Pirates League; a recruiting and training spot for buccaneers of all ages.   Each little future pirate checking in at the plunder-filled pirate’s lair gets an official pirate name. Then it’s off to Muster Station for applications of beards and eye patches, scarves and scars, earrings and gold teeth – all done with the savvy skill of a veteran pirate who shares his own tales of sea-sailing adventures.  After the new buccaneers recite a sacred pirate oath, they are officially part of Captain Jack’s motley crew, leaving their old identities behind. Past a hidden portal and into the treasure room, the shipmates have their “pirate portrait” taken before being turned loose on an unsuspecting Magic Kingdom!  While is certainly is not inexpensive, you can treat your little pirate to one of three pirate packages:

First Mate Package: Includes bandana; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax.

Empress Package: Includes bandana; shimmering makeup; face gem; tattoos; nail polish; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; one 5x7-inch photo; and personalized pirate oath -- $49.95 plus tax. 

Captains Package: Includes choice of costume/outfit from selection; choice of facial effects; scars; tattoos; fake teeth; earring and eye patch; sword and sheath; pirate coin necklace; three 5x7-inch photos; and personalized pirate oath -- $124.95 plus tax.

Try the Harmony Barber Shop at the Magic Kingdom!

*One of Lee’s Favorite Spots:  If you had just a little too much of “the mouse,” and need a relaxing break, why not go back to your youth!  Try the Harmony Barber Shop at the Magic Kingdom. Sit back in a real barber's chair and experience a good old-fashioned haircut at Harmony Barber Shop on Main Stree in the Magic Kingdom. Located near the Emporium and with a signature candy-striped pole outside, the shop transports guests to a simpler time when barbershop quartets entertained and getting a haircut was and still is a real treat. If you want to take your little Mousekateer along,"First Haircuts," the establishment's specialty, treats young'uns to pixie dust, bubbles, Mickey Mouse stickers and an extra-special "My 1st Haircut" set of Mouse Ears. Haircuts for children are $14; adults are $17; first-come, first-serve.  You're right!  Lee's haircut does not take a lot of time.....no much there! 

Kris Allen (the NEW American Idol Winner) Comes to Disney:

The NEW American Idol Experience at Hollywood Studios:

To Help You Plan,

Here is Disney' Schedule for the Entire Year

(at least as much as our memories will allow):

Disney Specials Month by Month: In general, Disney has special attraction throughout the year.  Over the years, the information below seems to happen every year.  So, if you ar planning to attend for a special event, this might help.

Walt Disney World Marathon and Half Marathon:

In most years, the Walt Disney World Half Marathon is help around early to mid-Jan.  and the Walt Disney World Marathon, a 26.2-mile trek through all four Walt Disney World theme parks and hotel resort areas, about the same time, but a day or two later.  The Walt Disney World Marathon and Half Marathon highlight an entire running weekend at Walt Disney World Resort. Other highlights include Disney's Health and Fitness Expo at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex.  

Disney's Pirate & Princess Party: Usulally in late January, Feb. and March:

If you have either a little pirate, or a beautiful princess of your own, you may want to consider one of these Pirate & Princess Parties.  Guests embark on a quest for beads and chocolate treasures as they are immersed in a world of pirates and princesses during the “Pirate & Princess Party” at the Magic Kingdom. The first run of the Pirate & Princess Party in January-March 2007 was so successful, Disney brought it back for many years.

The party is held after regular park closing, from 7:00 pm - 12:00 midnight. Entry to the party requires separate admission. (You don't have to have paid admission on the same day to the Magic Kingdom in order to attend the special after-hours event.) Reportedly guests with Pirate & Princess Party tickets have been admitted to the park as early as 4:00 pm. You will need to get a wristband that allows you to stay in the park after the party begins.

With an adventure map and treasure pouch in hand, families can enjoy a quest for colorful beads, chocolate doubloons and fun throughout the Magic Kingdom theme park. Adventurers can explore Magic Kingdom on a quest for pirate coves and princess courts brimming with specially themed entertainment, participate in character meet-and-greets and experience some of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions open throughout the evening. Guests are invited to dress up as a wily pirate or favorite Disney princess.

Adding to the magic of the event are two nighttime entertainment spectaculars:

• "Disney's Enchanted Adventures Parade" features a new 39-foot-long raucous pirate ship overflowing with swashbuckling adventurers, plus a treasure-filled float with Captain Jack Sparrow himself. The colorful cavalcade moves down Main Street, U.S.A. with the twirling Jolly Roger Flag Corps -- plus royal knights on horseback, court dancers and a regal processional of Disney princesses and princes.
• "Magic, Music and Mayhem," a fireworks display orchestrated to an original musical score, fills the sky above Magic Kingdom.

Party highlights:

• Adventureland: Captain Jack Sparrow leads a pirate tutorial offering young buccaneers sword fighting tips; plus a chance for photos with Jasmine and laughs with the hilarious Genie.
• Fantasyland: A fish called Flounder and crazy crab Sebastian kick it up with an "Under the Sea" dance party, and meet-and-greets with Ariel.
• Toontown: Court musicians and strolling jugglers hail princesses Cinderella, Belle and Aurora in a princess pavilion. Pirate Mickey and Donald invite guests to step right up and try their luck at carnival games in a themed play area.
• Frontierland: Singing sensation Riverboat Roulettes lure guests to a haunted river boat where the ghost of Jolly Roger spins tales amidst magicians and more.
• Tomorrowland: Young guests meet a space pirate, boogie down at Stitch's cosmic dance party, and enjoy break-dancing pirates and other entertainment.

It's fun to have dinner at Tony's Town Square or Liberty Tree Tavern just before the party. This allows you to be in the park right when the festivities begin. The two restaurants book up quickly, so make reservations as early as possible.

Chinese New Year:

Each year the China Pavilion in Epcot has a Chinese New Year celebration. Usually there are Chinese acrobats and special activities for kids. Chinese New Year is usually on, oddly enough, Chines New Year.

Valentine's Day

Pleasure Island becomes Sweetheart Island, celebrating the romance of Valentine's Day each year.  There are usually several Pleasure Island events. The Love Prophets foretell guests' romantic futures in the West End plaza and Cupid roams the streets. A Matchmaker-Matchbreaker character pushes her way into everyone's business, a Lovelorn Loser tries desperately to land the love of his life, and there are other surprise performers.  Guests may experience the outdoor elements of the Sweetheart Island celebration free of charge.

 Mardi Gras (Disney):

"Parti Gras" usually puts a Pleasure Island spin on the famous Mardi Gras tradition each year. Pleasure Island events usually begin in early Feb. Jester heads and giant beads feature in this colorful celebration, where the Krewe of Confusion and the World's Dinkiest Mardi Gras Parade are among the tongue-in-cheek acts seizing the night. There are a wide range of special entertainment offerings such as Mardi Gras stilt walkers, jugglers, a unicycle artist, a bead dancer, a yo-yo professional and a beaded person (a person literally covered with beads).  Guests may experience the outdoor elements of the Parti Gras celebration free of charge.

Mardi Gras – (Universal Studios) Early Feb. - mid-April

Universal Orlando offers guests a perfect way to experience the idea of Mardi Gras in a very safe, clean, and fun environment. If you have the opportunity to see this, you must! Cast members walk the streets dressed in crazy costumes and stilt walkers tower above the crowds. With 13 original floats from New Orleans, authentic Cajun food, extravagant costumes, and live jazz music, you'll feel like you’re in the French Quarter.

ESPN The Weekend:

Each year ESPN and Disney offers fans the opportunity to see and hear ESPN personalities and athletes during "ESPN The Weekend," a special event at Disney-MGM Studios.  The SPN The Weekend is uslally in late Feb. - early March.  Typically ESPN The Weekend features on-site ESPN telecasts including SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight, Cold Pizza and BassCenter; star motorcades and Q&A sessions featuring athletes and ESPN personalities; appearances by Disney characters; sports shows in the ESPN Theater with ESPN commentators and athletes; a visit from ESPN The Truck; live ESPN Radio broadcasts; ESPN Deportes SportsCenter telecasts and interactive sports activities.

St. Patrick's Day

Pleasure Island sometimes turns green for St. Patrick's Day each year with "Sham Rock 'n' Roll" festivities.  Pleasure Island events surround St. Patty's Day.  The celebration included live music by Irish artists, leprechauns and green specialty beverages.

You may also be able to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Downtown Disney. The Irish owners of Raglan Road Irish Restaurant & Pub at Downtown Disney usually line up a non-stop program of Irish music, song and dance to match anything found in their native Dublin, Ireland. That's in addition to a heady mix of Celtic Cocktails, Irish Dance Competitions and Raglan's Irish cuisine and Irish beers -- all the ingredients needed to create one fine Irish hooley (party).

Easter

Spring is in full swing at Easter, with tons of blooming flowers and outdoor displays.  You can just feel the anticipation of great things to come! Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny appear in several meet and greet times for your little Mousekateer.  As a special activity, Disney usually offers very special meals available at many restaurants on Easter Sunday. Note that "holiday pricing" (i.e. higher prices) may be in effect for Cinderella's Royal Table, and perhaps others. Too, you can celebrate the joy of Easter by participating in one of the special church services offered by Disney. 

Atlanta Braves Spring Training at Disney's Wide World of Sports:

The Atlanta Braves hold their Spring Training season at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. After two weeks of workouts, the Braves play a series of games against major rivals at The Ballpark at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex.  However, if you are a fan of another team, just let us know and we’ll give you specifics since 7 Major League Baseball teams train in the area surrounding our homes.  Individual game tickets for the Braves home spring training games are at Disney's Wide World of Sports box office.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo (5th of May) is a celebration of Mexican heritage.   There usually is a relatively low-key Cinco de Mayo celebration centered on the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot, and it usually features some sort of special activity for families.  In addition, there is a Pleasure Island Cinco de Mayo Party with live music. The outdoor elements of the Cinco de Mayo celebration are free of charge. Admission to the clubs however, requires a ticket.

Minnie Marathon Weekend  

Disney's Minnie Marathon Weekend presented by Lady Foot Locker has bee in early May.  Disney's Minnie Marathon Weekend is a Women's Endurance event. With a 15K, a 5K and Kids' Races Disney's Minnie Marathon Weekend truly has something for everyone and every fitness level.  Disney's Minnie Marathon Weekend is THE Women's Endurance Event at the Walt Disney World with something for everyone and every fitness level. Bring your grandmothers, your daughters, and, in our case, granddaughters!  The whole family for a weekend of fun and fitness.

Mother's Day

While all of the Disney World restaurants will be open on Mother's Day, one of our favorite Mother's Day dining experiences is the brunch hosted at Epcot as part of the International Flower and Garden Festival. A talented team of chefs prepare culinary specialties amidst colorful blossoms. A strolling guitarist provides entertainment while you dine.  This brunch is held at the World ShowPlace Pavilion which is located between the Canada and United Kingdom Pavilions. Continuous seating begins at 9:00am and ends at 3:00pm.    Regular Epcot admission is required.   The Mother’s Day brunch is around $50 adult, $20 child (age 3-9). I

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is an outstanding annual event, not to be missed. Currently the Festival is scheduled from very early Mach to mid-May..

Wow, have we got news: the 17th annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival kicks off March 3 – earlier than ever – and continues for 75 days through May 16, 2010!   Last year’s festival began March 18, but this year you can get a head start on the gardening season as you explore exhibits and activities geared toward gardening and outdoor fun.  We hear that even before it is officially spring, Donald Duck and his topiary pals will set up camp in full floral color to celebrate the Great Outdoors at the Epcot front entrance. We’re told that the elaborate topiary has a North American theme, live waterfall & pond and features Goofy in a fly-fishing misadventure!  You’ll also find Daisy Duck roasting marshmallows over a campfire and Pluto in his “pup tent.” It’s a must-stop photo op for our VacationEAR guests as soon as they pass through the park turnstiles.

Insiders tell us there are several venues new this year!   Up to 700 butterflies are to flutter into an expanded and relocated, futuristic-themed Bambi’s Butterfly House – double the size of previous years’ Minnie’s Magnificent Butterfly Garden. The new butterfly abode in Future World West, at 3,500 square feet,  is to allow hundreds of the winged beauties to flit among the lush foliage of a larger screened enclosure, where you can wander and watch as multiple butterfly species light on flowers filled with nectar and as caterpillars emerge from their chrysalis in a special discovery exhibit. Bambi is to join the butterfly floral topiaries to welcome guests to the enclosure.

Special gardens, events and children’s play areas throughout the park will offer more reasons to visit the 17th annual festival:
 

·          New Victory Garden – Disney’s “fab five” topiary pals – Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto and Goofy are to gather at American Adventure to tend tomatoes, beans, peppers, herbs and other edibles in their first Victory Garden as a salute to the history of World War II gardens, the new White House vegetable garden and the many community gardens being planted across the country.
 

·          Newly Expanded Pixie Hollow Fairy Garden – Colorful topiaries of Tinker Bell and friends from Walt Disney Pictures’ latest DVD “Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure” will sprinkle pixie dust over this playful, expanded garden for kids. New characters on display with returning fairy favorites are supposed to be the fast-flying, sharp-tongued Vidia and charming Terence, dispenser of pixie dust. Tinker Bell’s Nook will have a hands-on gardening activity for children. 
 

·          First-Ever American Gothic Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse – Topiary experts are to pull out all the stops to create an American Gothic Mickey and Minnie topiary scene based on the 1930 Grant Wood painting.  At World Showcase Plaza.
 

·          Pirates Adventure Zone – Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Croc topiaries will lure young swashbucklers to this interactive space designed for exploration and adventure. Next to the Germany pavilion.

Insiders tell us that throughout the festival, more than 70 topiaries plus sweeping floral beds and exhibits will decorate the park landscape and showcase the craftsmanship of Disney gardeners. A Fragrance Garden at the France pavilion will tell the “love story” of plants and perfume, and the art of bonsai will “wow” guests at the Japan showcase. 

Festival highlights are also to include: 

·Flower Power concerts – Popular bands will rock the open-air America Gardens Theatre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m. Jose Feliciano is scheduled to kick off the concert series March 5-7. On subsequent weekends, the lineup is slated to feature pop favorites like Davy Jones, Chubby Checker & The Wildcats, Tony Orlando, former Boston lead singer Fran Cosmo, and other top acts.
 

·          Disney Gardening at Home presentations – Disney horticulturists will share gardening tips and lead guests in a hands-on, take-home activity.
 

·          The Great American Gardeners series – Gardening celebrities and authors from across the country will reveal their gardening secrets. Opening weekend, Robert Bowden, author and director of lush Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando, kicks off the series.
 

·          The Garden Town Festival Center – Guests can shop for festival merchandise, attend speaker presentations and demonstrations and ask gardening questions of the experts.
 

·          Special Festival Celebrations – An Art in the Garden celebration of open air artists is scheduled March 26-28; a Florida Farmer’s Market celebration is April 23-25, and the popular I Dig Bugs event is set for April 30-May 2.

Star Wars Weekends

Each year for several weekends in early summer, Star Wars actors and characters in costume appear in special motorcades and autograph sessions at Disney-MGM Studios. Other fun events such as Star Wars trivia contests are also held.   The pary begins usually on weekend in very early June!I  Celebrities have included: Jay Laga'aia ("Captain Typho"),Warwick Davis ("Wicket the Ewok"), Kenny Baker ("R2-D2"), Ray Park ("Darth Maul"), Daniel Logan ("Boba Fett" - Episode II), Jeremy Bullloch ("Boba Fett"), Peter Mayhew ("Chewbacca"), Anthony Daniels ("C-3PO"), Bonnie Piesse ("Beru Lars"), etc. Too Star Wars celebrities will certainly be participating in daily autograph sessions, the Legends of the Force Celebrity Motorcade and Stars of the Saga Talk Show.  Specials may include the Jedi Training Academy, and other very special "out of this world experiences!"

Sounds Like Summer

All summer long you can dance to classic rock n' roll hits under the skies of the open-air America Gardens Theater at Epcot. Last summer, the summer concert series featured a lineup of bands covering timeless tunes from Billy Joel, ABBA, The Eagles and Chicago.  Get the family together and groove to the songs you all know and love! The "Sounds Like Summer" concerts are usually offere early June to mid-Aug. 5:15 pm, 6:45 pm and 8:00 pm are included in park admission.   

July 4

Theme Parks:  Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney-MGM Studios all offer special fireworks shows in the evening on July 4. These festivities are included in regular park admission.  Disney's Animal Kingdom does not offer fireworks since they would disturb the animals.

Downtown Disney/Pleasure Island:  An evening of special July 4 family fun is in store at Downtown Disney and may feature a DJ dance party and fireworks. In the past, there has been live entertainment at Pleasure Island and the Marketplace from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm. A special fireworks display took place at 11:00 pm.  Guests may experience the outdoor elements of the July 4 celebration at Downtown Disney free of charge.

Bastille Day

On July 14 the France Pavilion in Epcot celebrates Bastille Day, which commemorates the beginning of the French Revolution. This is a low-key event, but there are special activities for kids and adults.  

Night of Joy

Contemporary Christian music acts perform at Magic Kingdom on two nights each September. This is an after-hours event that requires a separate ticket.  Plan early because the Park usually fills early!

US Open Water Ski Championships

This annual event takes place on the lake adjacent to Downtown Disney. Spectators can watch the competition from the waterfront areas of Downtown Disney. Carts selling food and beverages are set up along the viewing areas during the event.  The vent is usulally in mid-Sept..

Walt Disney World Triathlon

Each fall, athletes exhilarate the body and mind as they swim, bike, and run through the Walt Disney World Resort in this USA Triathlon sanctioned event. This event consists of a 1.5K swim, a 40K bike ride, and a 10K run in and around Walt Disney World.  The Triathlon usually is help in Sept. The Triathlon capped a weekend full of events for athletes.

Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

Each fall, Epcot hosts the International Food and Wine Festival, a several-weeks-long celebration that includes both "free" (i.e. included in Epcot admission) and separately ticketed events such as Food and Wine Pairings, Specialty Dinners, wine classes and Party for the Senses.  The International Food and Wine Festival is usually scheduled from Sept. to Nov.

More than 100 wineries offer tastings, and guests can sample the food from the various countries in tasting portions ranging from $1.50 to $4.50. Past Wine Festival Marketplaces included foods and beverages from the following countries and categories: Argentina; Australia; Canada; Champagne; Chile; China; France; Germany; Greece; Hops & Barley; India; Ireland; Italy; Japan; Mexico; Morocco; New Zealand; Poland; Scandinavia; South Africa; Spain; Turkey; USA.

Other highlights have included:

• The Festival Welcome Center, with a Champagne and Sparkling Wine Bar, commemorative posters and other festival keepsakes.
• Some 250 Disney chefs and guest chefs conducting culinary demonstrations and hosting elegant dinners and tasting events.
• Up to 1,200 wine and beer seminars providing complimentary samplings.
• Elegant dinners, the weekly Party for the Senses grand tasting with entertainment by Cirque du Soleil and other by-reservation-only events.
• Along with the music, dance, acrobatics and avant-garde entertainment showcased at Epcot pavilions, festival guests can enjoy EAT TO THE BEAT CONCERTS performed three times each evening at America Gardens Theatre.  Once again, these are the “oldies” or 60s and 70s groups Lee just loves!

Entrance to the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, plus wine and beer seminars and cooking demonstrations, is included with regular Epcot admission.

ANOTHER ONE OF LEE’S FAVORITES during the Food and Wine:: Eat to the Beat Concerts

Enjoy 60s and 70s musical evenings during the Food & Wine Festival with the "Eat to the Beat!" concerts scheduled daily at 5:45, 7:00 and 8:15 pm on the America Gardens Theatre stage, and they are “free” if you have an Epcot admission.

"Eat to the Beat!" Concert Series Lineup in the past has been:

• September 28 & 29 - Al Stewart
• September 30-October 1 - Otis Day and the Knights
• October 2-3 - Beach Boys
• October 4-6 -The Original Family Stone
• October 7-9 - Sheena Easton
• October 10-13 - Starship featuring Mickey Thomas
• October 14-16 - David Cassidy
• October 17-18 - Little Richard
• October 19-21 - TBD
• October 22-25 - The Four Tops
• October 26-27 - The Village People
• October 28-30 - The Outlaws
• October 31- November 3 - John Secada
• November 4-6 - Chubby Checker and the Wildcats
• November 7-8 - The Contours featuring Sylvester Potts
• November 9-11-David Sanborn

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (and an insider tip from Paulette and Lee):

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is held on selected nights in October each year. It is offered from 7:00 pm to midnight, after the regular closing of Magic Kingdom, and requires separate admission. (You don't have to have paid admission on the same day to the Magic Kingdom in order to attend the special after-hours event.)  Admission to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party includes trick-or-treating for adults and kids, costume parades for little ones, character meet-and-greets, fortune tellers, Halloween riverboat ride, two performances of a unique holiday parade, and a special fireworks display. Attendees can wear costumes (subject to a few rules based on safety and appropriateness). Plus, most of the major attractions are open.

You may wonder, is Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party worth the money? Depends on how much you are "into" Halloween. Some of the experiences available during the party are not offered at any other time, so it allows you to enjoy Magic Kingdom in a unique way. We thought it was a lot of fun and would gladly pay to attend again.    Although the number of people admitted each night is limited, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party can be quite crowded, particularly on weekend nights and Halloween night, so it's not always a good way to avoid lines. Don't necessarily expect to get on a lot of rides. The party is more about the parade, shows and Halloween "atmosphere."  It's fun to have dinner at Tony's Town Square or Liberty Tree Tavern just before the party. This allows you to be in the park right when the festivities begin. Make reservations as early as possible.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party has been offered ofrom mid-Sept,. to early Nov.from 7:00 pm to midnight.  This event closes very early, so if you plan to attend, secure your reservation early!

Haunted Hayrides at Fort Wilderness

Here is one of those things most people don’t know about.  Each October Fort Wilderness offers a Haunted Hayride based on the classic Washington Irving story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow". These wagon rides include a performer who tells the story of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman. In the past, the hayrides took place in most of Oct.. The wagons depart across from Pioneer Hall beginning around dusk. There were 6 to 9 rides per night, starting at 7:30  Wagons depart approximately every 20 minutes.  .

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 13K

Wow, with all these athletic events, Mickey and Minnie must be in great shape!  This new nighttime running event (along with a 6.5K race) debuted on October 27, 2007. This endurance event, which began and ended at Disney-MGM Studios, was tied into the 13th anniversary of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror attraction. The entry fees included access to an exclusive party in Disney-MGM Studios from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am. The party offered a live band and Tower of Terror, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and The Great Movie Ride were open.

Halloween

In addition Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and the Haunted Hayrides there are also special events at Downtown Disney and Pleasure Island for Halloween.  Family-oriented events such as trick-or-treating, a pumpkin patch and a dance party are usually offered at Downtown Disney from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm on October 30 and 31. Trick-or-treat bags are distributed at Disney's Wonderful World of Memories, Once Upon a Toy and World of Disney. Kids can visit close to a dozen locations that were distributing treats (most or all of the Disney-owned stores and carts participate). A Dance Party is held at the Dock Stage.  Pleasure Island offers Halloween-themed entertainment and dancing on Halloween (October 31) as well as the Friday and Saturday nights prior to Halloween (if Halloween doesn't fall on a Friday or Saturday).

Festival of the Masters

Award-winning visual artists transform Downtown Disney into a vast outdoor gallery during the Festival of the Masters each November. The Festival of the Masters usually happens in early Nov.  To qualify for Festival of the Masters, artists must have earned a primary award in a juried art festival within the last three years. Prospective exhibitors submit award verification and slides of their works to a jury of art experts, who then have the formidable task of reviewing the slides and selecting the participants. This process ensures that visitors to the Festival will be treated to one of the finest displays of art in the nation. Hence, Festival of the Masters has become one of the most sought-after shows among artists.  Over 200 honorees from art festivals around the country showcase painting, photography, glass works, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, jewelry and digital art. Live entertainment and children's activities are also part of the weekend-long event. Festival guests can experience culinary offerings and dance to live music.

Thanksgiving

While Disney does not offer a Thanksgiving parade, the Christmas decorations are in full place the day after and most of the Christmas shows get under way!  There are special meals available at most Disney World restaurants on Thanksgiving. Note that "holiday pricing" (i.e. higher prices) may be in effect for some restaurants (particularly the buffets and character meals).

Christmas Decorations:

Paulette and I thought you might like to know that Disney’s Christmas decorations usually begin going up around the first of November, and are gradually added at night until they are fully completed by Thanksgiving weekend.  The Disney parks are wonderfully decorated for the holidays with each park also having special shows and events.  So, if you are thinking about visiting Disney at Christmas, remember, Christmas in the land of THE Mouse begins Thanksgiving Weekend!     

Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights:

This is certainly one of our favorite Christmas things to see!  Watching our grandkids enjoy the lights and snow (yes, “Florida snow”) is an absolute delight. The display uses millions (really) of Christmas lights, “Florida snow” and various vignettes to get you in the Christmas spirit.  It was originally created by Jennings Osborne at his home in Little Rock, Arkansas. After he was forced to remove the display due to complaints by his neighbors, Disney happily agreed to use it at Disney-MGM Studios, where it has become an annual event.  In 2006, the spectacle was enhanced to include choreographed “dancing” lights which swirl and soar to an exhilarating medley of holiday music every 15 minutes, thanks to electronic wizardry featuring more than 400 dimmers. Every building façade on New York Street, all the trees, wreaths, bells and holiday figures dance to classic tunes among “Florida snow” flurries. For the holiday season, this display usually begine in early Nov. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights is included in regular admission to Disney-MGM Studios and certainly should not be missed.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (and an inside tip from Paulette and Lee):

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is held after the regular closing of Magic Kingdom and requires separate admission. (You don't have to have paid admission on the same day to the Magic Kingdom in order to attend the special after-hours event.) The event is held from 7:00 pm to midnight on selected nights, usually running from the weekend after Thanksgiving through approximately December 20.  Admission to the event includes complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, "Florida snow" on Main Street, holiday stage shows, carolers, two performances of the holiday parade, and a special fireworks display. Plus, most of the major attractions are open.

Is Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party worth the money? Well, we think it really depends on your plans. Be aware that the same parades, shows, "snow" experience and fireworks (but not the hot chocolate and cookies) are offered as part of regular admission if you visit Magic Kingdom starting the day after Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party ends (@ December 22) through New Year's Eve. So if you will be visiting Magic Kingdom between December 22-31, there is very little reason to spend the extra money to attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.  However, if you will be visiting Mickey before that date, the party is certainly wonderful event not to be missed. – but remember to be sure the little Mousekateers are well rested for this evening event.

Although the number of people admitted each night is limited, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party can be quite crowded, particularly on weekend nights and the last couple of nights it's offered, so it's not always a good way to avoid lines. It can be a lot of fun to attend if you want to get into the Christmas spirit in late November or early December, but don't necessarily expect to get on a lot of rides. The party is more about the parades and Christmas "atmosphere."

We think it is fun to have dinner at Tony's Town Square or Liberty Tree Tavern just before the party. This allows you to be in the park right when the festivities begin. Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party usually starts in early Nov., from 7:00 pm to midnight in 2007.

Please email us at drherron@mindspring.com or telephone us at 407-351-9530 or 800-749-3573, for more information!

To see many, many photos of recent events at Disney and all the parks, simply click on "Special Photos on the navigation bar at the top of the page.  Enjoy!

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SUN-cerely,
Paulette and Lee
Last Updated July 29, 2010
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