ALL YEAR
EVENTS:
Year of a Million Dreams:
Now through the end of 2008, Disney World theme park guests can enjoy "The Year of a Million Dreams." This very special event
emphasizes special experiences that are only available at Disney's theme parks.
Guests have an opportunity to experience fabulous Disney "dreams" such as
spending a night in Cinderella Castle, enjoying a meeting with a Princess, or receiving a special FASTPASS
allowing the bearer to jump to the head of the line.
In 2006, Disney began The Year of a Million Dreams, and it was
originally scheduled to run only through 2007. Now,
it has been been extended through the end of 2008! The Year of a Million Dreams, provides Disney opportunities which you can't buy for any amount
of money…if you are lucky enough to win them.
Through Disney Dreams Giveaway, guests have an opportunity to win
fabulous Disney "dreams" such as the night in Cinderella Castle, or traveling around the world as a parade Grand Marshal visiting all
the Disney theme parks. The giveaway also includes hundreds of thousands of smaller items
such as a special FASTPASS allowing the bearer to jump to the head of the line on every
FASTPASS attraction for one day, or a lanyard and pin set. Good luck from Paulette and
Lee!!
Attraction Previews
(a special hint from Paulette and Lee):
We thought you might like to know, that, from time to time, Walt
Disney World offers special previews of new attractions on an informal basis,
before the attractions officially open. These previews are called "soft
openings." During previews, the attraction may be open intermittently or not at all. Attractions
that are in the "soft opening" stage are usually NOT listed in the official Park
Times & Information guide. You'll have to check the Park Tip Board upon arrival at
the theme park or, better yet, ask a Cast Member. Since previews are used to test
new attractions, there may be delays, the ride/show may shut down, etc. However, if you want to be the very first to ride
the very latest, be sure to ask!
WINTER EVENTS
(but
it really is never “winter” here):
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 2007 holiday season, this display is
offered 11/12/07-1/6/08. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights is included in
regular admission to Disney-MGM Studios and certainly should not be missed.
Harlem Gospel Choir:
The world-renowned Harlem Gospel Choir appeared at Disney-MGM Studios
for the first time in the 2007 holiday season. Three performances (at 5:00, 6:00 and 7:30 pm) were offered at Theater of
the Stars (Beauty and the Beast show location) on Sunset Blvd each night between
November 30 and December 25. Performances
included holiday favorites such as "Joy to the World," "Silent Night"
and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." The show is included in regular admission
to Disney-MGM Studios.
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 2007 is
to be offered on November 12, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, and 30; December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13,
14, 16, 18, 20 and 21, from 7:00 pm to midnight.
Epcot Holidays Around the World:
Epcot is where we get our exercise!
We walk around the lake a couple of times to see if we can stay in shape (a
winning battle for Paulette, but a losing one for Lee)!
But, for Holidays Around the World, Epcot's World Showcase has far too many distractions just for
exercise. It transforms into a splendid
display of international Christmas traditions and storytelling. For
2008, the special holiday fun takes place daily from November 28 through December 30.
Holidays Around the World is included with regular Epcot admission.
Don’t forget to be sure you little ones get to meet the Santas Around the World. Christmas icons delight children around the globe
-- such as France's Père Noël and Italy's La Befana – and many more make special
appearances in their respective countries, while (the real) Santa Claus himself pays
visits to the American Adventure showcase. Guests also see holiday traditions and legends
as they are observed around the world, with Hanukah and Kwanzaa customs on display as
well.
At 6 pm nightly, Mickey Mouse and his friends host a giant tree-lighting ceremony, complete with
music and storytelling, in World Showcase Plaza. A dazzling synchronized light show -- "The Lights of Winter" --
illuminates a canopy adorning the World Showcase breezeway bridge. The Epcot evening
spectacular of lights, lasers and fireworks, "Illuminations:
Reflections of Earth," completes your celebration
with a magical holiday finale. But, don’t forget to take in the Candlelight Processional!
Candlelight Processional:
The Candlelight Processional is an annual event at Epcot that includes
a celebrity narrator presenting the Biblical Christmas story, plus a very large
choir and full orchestra performing traditional religious Christmas carols. In
2007 it is held at the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase area of Epcot from
November 23 through December 30. There are three performances each night, at 5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 pm. (No 5:00 show on December 2.) Each show
runs about 40 minutes. There is no additional
charge for the performance over and above your Epcot admission.
Candelight Processional Lineup for 2007
- 11/23-11/25 - David Robinson
- 11/26-11/28 - John O'Hurley
- 11/29-12/01 - Neil Patrick Harris
- 12/02-12/04 - Dennis Franz
- 12/05-12/07 - Monique Coleman
- 12/08-12/10 - Steven Curtis Chapman
- 12/11-12/13 - Chita Rivera
- 12/14-12/16 - Andie MacDowell
- 12/17-12/19 - Kirk Cameron
- 12/20-12/22 - Edward James Olmos
- 12/23-12/25 - Gary Sinise
- 12/26-12/28 - Rita Moreno
- 12/29-12/30 - Marlee Matlin
Holiday Sleigh Rides (Little
known fun!):
Most folks visiting Disney miss the many “other” things to
do. We certainly want you to be aware of some
thinks most folks miss! From December
1-December 30, Disney offers 25-minute "sleigh" rides through the
woods from the Wilderness Lodge. (The horse-drawn vehicle is wheeled but made to look like
a red sleigh, complete with sleighbells!) The
sleighs depart from the Porte Cochere (covered entry) in front of the Lodge every
half-hour, with departures between 5:30 pm and 9:30 pm. The cost in 2007 is $35
(includes tax but not tip) per sleigh. A sleigh can hold up to 4 adults, or 2 adults and 3
kids. Reservations are strongly suggested.
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day:
In addition to the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, and the Osborne
Family Spectacle of Lights at Disney-MGM Studios and the special parades, shows, "Florida snow" experience and
fireworks at Magic Kingdom, there are special meals
available at certain restaurants on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Note that
"holiday pricing" (i.e. higher prices) may be in effect for some restaurants
(particularly the buffets and character meals) December
16, 2007-January 5, 2008. Others are only charging a
premium on the actual holidays, so be sure to ask when booking reservations.
Religious services are held on Christmas Day only in the Fantasia
Ballroom at the Contemporary Resort. Catholic Mass will be held at 8:00 am and 10:15 am. A Protestant service
will be held at 9:00 am. You may not park at the Contemporary for these services, so to get
there, you must do one of the following:
- take the monorail to the Contemporary
- take a boat to the Contemporary
- take resort transportation (monorail, boat or bus) to the Magic Kingdom and transfer to
a shuttle bus serving the Contemporary resort
Paulette and Lee thinks you might like to know that, if you plan to
visit one of the theme parks on Christmas Day, you should be aware the parks usually reach
full capacity at some point during the day. For that reason it's best to arrive first
thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Stow the “stuff” you may
need later in the day in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get
FASTPASSes right away if you think you will want to ride anything, because the lines will
be very long by noon. Now, having said that, Christmas Day at Disney is a
wonderful experience!
New Year's Eve & New Year's Day:
Theme
Parks
Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Disney-MGM Studios all
stay open late on New Year's Eve and offer extra excitement and entertainment, usually
including live performances, extra parades and fireworks. These festivities are included
in regular park admission and you really do not need to make any other plans for New
Years.
Special theme park events for New Year's Eve:
- Epcot celebrates the New Year "around the world"
with DJs and evening dance parties located throughout World Showcase and lasting late into
the evening, as well as a special presentation of the fireworks.
- Disney-MGM Studios celebrates New Year's Eve not only with multiple presentations of
Fantasmic, a spectacular of Disney movies and music, but also with a special Happy New
Year fireworks spectacular.
- Magic Kingdom features special presentations of the SpectroMagic parade and multiple
nighttime fireworks displays. The Holiday Wishes fireworks show lights up the sky early in
the evening, and guests who make it to midnight can also see Fantasy in the Sky fireworks,
which begins just before the New Year kicks off.
New Year Epcot Event for 2007: New Year's Eve at Carnation Gardens
This is one of our favorite ways
to bring in the New Year - New Year's Eve at Carnation Gardens! The
World Showcase Events Pavilion, located between Canada and the United Kingdom in Epcot, hosts a special all-you-can-eat dinner (Lee’s favorite
words) and dancing event for New Year's Eve 2007. The evening is inspired by Date Night at
Disneyland, which was
held at Disneyland's Carnation Gardens on Friday nights in the 1950s
and 60s. The price, including tax and
gratuity, is $59.99 for adults (age 10+) and $24.99 for children (age 3-9). If you go, you may see
Paulette and Lee dancing the night away!
Cirque du Soleil
Cirque du Soleil presents special New Year's Eve performances of La
Nouba. Guests are treated to a champagne toast, a limited-edition full color souvenir
program and a special show finale. We think you should know that tickets for these New
Year's Eve performances are more expensive than usual.
Atlantic Dance Hall
New Year’s Eve at the Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort includes champagne toast at midnight, snacks and dancing to tunes
from the ‘80s through today. You must be 21 years of age or older (with ID) to enter Atlantic Dance Hall on New Year’s Eve.
Tickets for this event are $20 and go on sale on December 31 at the Atlantic Dance Hall box office. Doors open at 9:00 pm.
Pleasure Island
Every December 31, Pleasure Island hosts a New Year's Eve Party with live entertainment. This party
requires a special ticket and is not included in regular admission or Pleasure Island
Annual Passes. You must be 21 or older (with ID) to attend.
The New Year's Eve party is held from 8:00
pm to 2:00 am and includes bands and DJs mixing it up all night long. Music
includes Top 40, Latin, Tropical, Hip-Hop, 70s and 80s, and Techno. You'll enjoy a wide
variety of performers, plus a special fireworks show and a champagne toast at midnight. The food menu is expected
to include such items as skewered shrimp, smoked salmon and seared beef medallions. The
clubs are open as usual during this event. Regular
2007 tickets are on sale now at $99 plus tax per person.
Walt Disney World Marathon and Half Marathon:
In 2008, the Walt Disney World
Half Marathon will be held on January 12 and the Walt Disney World Marathon, a 26.2-mile
trek through all four Walt Disney World theme parks and hotel resort areas, will be on
January 13. 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. Events for the Marathon Weekend will take
place January 10-13, 2008. Registration for the 2008 Marathon and Half Marathon have
already opened online. (Don't wait too long to register for the 2008 Marathon -- the 2007
Marathon and Half Marathon registration filled up by August 2006!)
Disney's Pirate & Princess Party: 2008-January 21, 26, and 29; Feb. 2, 5, 9, 14, 22, and 26; March 1,6,11,14
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 eight select nights in August and
September 2007, and now it's returning for January-March 2008.
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. (Note from Mary: in my opinion, this is
the most impressive fireworks display Disney has ever created!)
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.
The Pirate & Princess Party
will return in 2008. Dates are January 21, 26, 29; February 2, 5, 9, 14, 22, 26; March 1,
6, 11, 14.
- Advance purchase price $36.16 ages 10 & up (tax included) and $31.90 ages 3-9 (tax
included). Ticket prices will be higher at the gate, if the event is not already sold out.
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. The next
Chinese New Year will be on February 7, 2008.
Valentine's Day
Pleasure Island becomes Sweetheart Island, celebrating the romance of
Valentine's Day each year. In 2007 the Pleasure Island events were February 9, 10 and
14, from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am. 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. Admission to the Pleasure Island nightclubs requires a separate
ticket.
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. 2008 Spring Training tickets go on sale 1/5/08. The
2008 schedule has not yet been announced but will be in February-March for sure!
For 2007, the game schedule ran February 28-March 29.
Mardi Gras (Disney):
"Parti Gras" puts a Pleasure Island spin on the famous Mardi Gras tradition each year. In 2007 the Pleasure Island events were February 16, 17
and 20, from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am. 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. Admission to the Pleasure Island nightclubs requires a separate
ticket.
Mardi Gras –
(Universal Studios) February 2 - April 19, 2008
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
2008 ESPN The Weekend will be February 29-March 2.
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.
SPRING EVENTS:
St. Patrick's Day
Pleasure Island turns green for St. Patrick's Day each year with
"Sham Rock 'n' Roll" festivities. In
2007, the Pleasure Island events were March 15, 16 and 17 fro 7:00
pm to 2:00 am. So
far, we’ve been unable to find the specifics for this year, but it is sure to be on
St. Patrick’s Day! In 2007,
the celebration included live music by Irish artists, leprechauns and green specialty
beverages. The outdoor elements of the St.
Patrick's Day Celebration are free of charge, but admission to the nightclubs requires
a ticket.
You can also celebrate St.
Patrick's Day in Downtown Disney. In 2007, the Irish owners of Raglan Road Irish
Restaurant & Pub at Downtown Disney lined 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). There was a $10 cover charge until 3:00 pm and a $15 cover charge after 3:00 pm.
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.
In 2007, special religious services were offered at the Fantasia Ballroom of
the Contemporary Resort:
- 8:00 am - 9:00 am - Roman Catholic Mass 9:00 am - 10:00 am - Protestant service
- 10:15 am - 11:15 am - Roman Catholic Mass
Epcot International
Flower and Garden Festival
The
Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is an outstanding annual event, not to
be missed. The 2008 festival will be held March 19 - June 1.
CELEBRATING 'FUN
IN THE SUN'
One
of the most welcome signs of spring is Epcot's annual International Flower & Garden
Festival. While the grounds at Epcot are always beautiful, the Flower and Garden
Festival takes them to the next level. The 2008 theme is "Fun in the Sun"
with 70 amazing topiaries featuring your favorite Disney characters. When you come through
the main entrance, you'll find a 14 foot tall Goofy 'surfing' a 6 foot 'wave' of plants
and blossoms. Mickey and Minnie will be at the beach party posing on a flowery beach towel
surrounded by starfish, tropical palms and sandcastles. If you're looking for Donald and
Daisy Duck, head to the World Showcase. They'll be depicted in topiaries playing a game of
beach volleyball. You may not want to go near the water when you see Stitch on the
lifeguard stand. Pluto will be close at hand playing with sand crab topiaries. Mexico's
'Gran Fiesta Tour Featuring the Three Caballeros' will come to life with Jose Carioca,
Panchito and Donald Duck featured in greenery.
Sailors
will be put to the test as they try to decode the message spelled out in the flower beds
with nautical flags. These will line the shores of the East and West lakes in Future
World. If you're missing last year's pirates theme, don't despair. You'll find topiaries
of Captain Hook at 'Peter Pan's Neverland Garden' along with Tinker Bell, the Croc and of
course, Peter Pan. This pirate ship garden will feature a shaded play area that will be
great for the kids.
Perennial
Flower and Garden favorites such as the Flower Power Concert series, Minnie's Butterfly
Garden, I dig Bugs, Art in the Garden, Mother's Day festivities, Growing Future Gardeners,
Great American Gardeners and Disney Gardening at Home will be returning. For the kids,
there will be Pluto's Play Zone, daily ladybug releases and the Peter Pan Neverland Garden.
Over at
the France Pavilion, there will again be a "lift and sniff" Fragrance Garden
focusing on some of the flowers used in making the Guerlain line of perfumes. Throughout the event, Disney horticulturists will
conduct seminars, sharing tips and secrets for you to try at home.
The
2008 International Flower & Garden Festival has expanded from 60 to 70 days and will
include Easter weekend. For more information, you may be interested in knowing 2007 festival features included:
- The Festival Center, where guests could find program guides and festival merchandise
and attend speaker presentations and demonstrations.
- The popular Great American Gardeners series, opening with Paul James of HGTV's
"Gardening by the Yard." .
- A "Lift and Sniff" Fragrance Garden at the France pavilion showcasing flowers
and plants used to create several Guerlain perfumes.
- Disney Gardening at Home presentations during which Disney horticulturists shared tips
and secrets for at-home gardening.
- Kids' activities, including an upgraded, fun-filled Tinker Bell's Fairy Garden, Disney
character meet and greets and daily ladybug releases.
- Flower Power
Concert Series (We can hardly wait!)
2008
Flower Power Concert Series – Lee’s Favorite
part of the Flower Show (he was, and still is, a 60s guy, but now it is his age!) Featuring music from the 60's and 70's
(Show Location America Gardens Theatre): Show times 5:45pm, 7:00pm & 8:15pm
So you can look forward to the Flower Power Concert Series as much as we do, here are the “oldies”
we here will perform:
- March 19-22 - The Guess Who
- March 23-24 - Petula Clark
- March 25-29 - Paul Revere and the Raiders
- April 6-9 - Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone
- April 10-12 - The Grass Roots starring Rob Grill
- April 14-16 - The Happenings
- April 17-18 - Peter & Gordon
- April 19-23 - Starship starring Mickey Thomas
- April 24-26 - The Ventures
- April 27-30 - B.J. Thomas
- May 4-5 - The Searchers
- May 6-10 - The Tokens
- May 11-15 - Davy Jones
- May 16-17 - Jose Feliciano
- May 21-24 - Gary Puckett
- May 25-27 - The Cowsills
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 May 2 - 4, 2008
Disney's Minnie
Marathon Weekend presented by Lady Foot Locker returns May 2-4, 2008. Registration
is now open for the 2008 Disney's Women Run the World 15K and Disney's Go Red for Women
5K! 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.
2008 Event Schedule
- Disney's Minnie Marathon Weekend Expo, Friday-Sunday, May 2-4, 2008
- Disney's Go Red for Women 5K, Saturday, May 3, 2007
- Women Run the World 15K, Sunday, May 4, 2008
Registration through Disney is required, and usually necessary far in
advance.
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 2007 Mother’s Day brunch was $45.99 adult,
$19.99 child (age 3-9). If you are interested in 2008 reservations, be sure to call Disney
early!
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. In
2007, dates for Star Wars weekends were June 1-3, 8-10, 15-17 and 22-24. 2007 Celebrities 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. Here are a few of the 2007 Star
War Weekend events:
- Jedi Training Academy – Selected audience members can train with a Jedi Master,
and test their skills against Darth Vader and Darth Maul.
- Star Tours Attraction – Blast your speedster through the ultimate Star Wars
adventure.
- Behind the Force – Get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the films.
- Padawan Mind Challenge – Compete in a kid trivia contest complete with Star Wars
prizes.
- Hyperspace Hoopla – Join together with Star Wars characters and Guests for an
entertaining conclusion to each day's events.
SUMMER
EVENTS:
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 2007 "Sounds Like Summer"
concerts was offered June 11-August 12, 2007. Three shows nightly at 5:15 pm, 6:45 pm and 8:00 pm are included in park admission. These
are all the "soundalike" bands from last year:
- June 11-17 - Kevin White (Garth Brooks)
- June 18-24 - Stayin' Alive (Bee Gees)
- June 25-July 1 - Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi)
- July 2-8 - Charlene Bedassie (Aretha Franklin)
- July 9-17 - Bjorn Again (ABBA)
- July 18-24 - Hotel California (The Eagles)
- July 25-29 - 52nd Street (Billy Joel)
- July 30-August 5 - Captain Fantastic (Elton John)
- August 6-12 - Transit Authority (Chicago)
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 featuring a DJ dance party and
fireworks. In 2007 there was 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. Admission to the Pleasure Island nightclubs requires a separate ticket.
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. The 2007
Bastille Day events were offered from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Disney's Magical
Beginnings
Magical Beginnings is a program devoted to families with little
ones. Designed to make a Disney vacation with young children easy and fun, it's the
perfect introduction to an enchanting visit. With age-appropriate attractions,
entertainment, special services and awesome special events, Magical Beginnings is just
wonderful. In 2007, it was from 8/26/07 through 10/28/07. Your family could have also danced and sung along
with Playhouse Disney in Concert and Playhouse Disney favorites - The Doodlebops, Johnny
and the Sprites and Dan Zanes – and more!
Disney's Pin
Celebration Weekend
The biggest Disney pin trading event of the year is the annual
Disney's Pin Celebration. The three-day event features a unique collection of specially
designed pins, trading activities and much more. Disney's
Pin Celebration 2007 was held at Epcot from September
7-9, 2007 during regular park hours. For
2008, the current schedule has it on Sept. 5-7. It is a private, separately
ticketed event. Admission to Epcot is not included in the price of event admission, but is
required for attendance. Registration is required.
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. The 2007 Night of Joy concerts were
September 7 & 8 from 7:30 pm - 12:30 am. 2007 single-night
tickets were $44.68 plus tax in advance. Two-night tickets were $76.63 plus tax. Reportedly the 2008 Night of Joy event
will be held at Disney's Hollywood Studios (the new name for MGM). Keep a close
watch to see when tickets are available.
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 2007 event was held on September
15 and 16, from 7:00
to 10:00 pm.
FALL EVENTS:
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 2007 Triathlon was held September 23, 2007. The Triathlon
capped a weekend full of events for athletes beginning 9/21/07.
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 2008 Epcot International Food and Wine
Festival is currently scheduled for Sept. 26 – Nov. 9.
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. The 2007 Food
& 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 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.
2007 Food and Wine Festival (extra ticket required)
Certain International Food and Wine Festival events, including special
dinners, vertical wine tastings, cooking classes and Party for the Senses, require advance
reservations and cost extra. Here are just a
few:
Afternoon Tea with Stephen Twining
Cheese Tastings
Chefs A'Field
The Cook, The Book and the Bottle
Discovering Wine
Exquisite Evenings at Epcot
Food and Wine Pairings
Odyssey Kitchen Conversations
Party for the Senses
Regional Feasts
Signature Dining Events
Sweet Sundays
Vertical Wine Tastings
Wine Schools
and more!
If you are interested in any specially ticketed event, check early!
These events are very popular and it is advisable to book as early as possible.
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 for 2007 was:
- 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 2007 was offered on September
14, 21, 28 and 3; October 4, 5, 8, 11, 12,14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 and 31;
November 2, 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 2007 the hayrides took place on
October 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31. The wagons depart
across from Pioneer Hall beginning around dusk. October 12-27, there were 6 rides per
night, starting at 7:30 pm. October 28-31, there were 9 rides per night, starting at 6:00 pm. Wagons depart approximately
every 20 minutes. The 2007 Haunted Hayrides
cost $15 adult, $10 child (3-9), plus tax.
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
2008 Festival of the Masters is currently scheduled for Nov. 7-9. 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.
Other highlights of the Festival of the Masters include:
- House of Blues Folk Art Festival – Enjoy the annual "Where the Art Meets the
Soul" festival, featuring 40 local and national folk artists, great music and
captivating children's activities.
- Central Florida Chalk Artists Association – Watch as over 6,000 square feet of
sidewalk at Downtown Disney Marketplace are turned into a giant canvas for more than 50
chalk artists. And kids can create their own works of art in a special chalk-art area just
for them!
- Children's Activities – Show your children the world of art as they're taught by
experts how to draw some of their favorite Disney characters outside DisneyQuest. Families
can enjoy other art-related activities throughout Downtown Disney, and kids can boogie at
a special DJ Dance Party at the Dock Stage every afternoon.
- Live Entertainment by performers from Cirque du Soleil La Nouba as well as face
painting and balloons outside Cirque du Soleil.
- Performance Artists – Experience this unique event where an artist transforms a
blank canvas into a colorful painting featuring a favorite Disney Character — right
in front of your eyes!
- Additional Live Entertainment – Keep your groove going all weekend with live
performances throughout Downtown Disney.
ABC Super Soap Weekend
This annual event held at Disney-MGM Studios offers soap opera fans an
opportunity to see their favorite ABC Soap stars at
various events, including autograph sessions, motorcades, interviews, talk shows, game
shows and performances.
The 2007 Super Soap Weekend was held November 10 & 11.
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) November
18-24, 2007.
Others are only charging a premium on the actual holiday, so be sure to ask when booking
reservations.
Disney World
