Believe it or not, it’s Halloween at Walt Disney World! It seems to arrive earlier and earlier every year. This year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties began earlier this week, and the Magic Kingdom is decked out in its finest fall and Halloween decor. This year, Disney’s PhotoPass department has really outdone themselves and there are lots of new special magic shots for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
What is a Magic Photo Shot?
A magic photo shot is a picture taken by a PhotoPass photographer with a little “magic” added to the picture that you won’t see until you look at the photo in your My Disney Experience app. What the magic is depends on which park you are in and where in the park you are. The time of year and any special events also impact what Magic Shots are available.
Here’s an example of a commonly available Magic Shot at Magic Kingdom:
The PhotoPass photographer will ask you to put your hands out in front of you or out to the side. When you see your picture later, you might find a beautiful little fairy with an attitude.
It is important to note, there is no guarantee you will get a Magic Shot. The longer the line for the photographer, the less likely you are to end up with a Magic Shot. If there is one you really want to get, don’t be afraid to ask for it, but be nice. And please, be understanding if the PhotoPass photographer is unable to give you the Magic Shot you are requesting. Depending on the location they are working in, they will only have certain Magic Shots loaded into their software. Also, if the lines are long, or if you’re asking for a shot that is event specific and you are not at the event–the Photopass photographer will not be able to help you.
New Special Magic Photo Shots for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
You may discover a few of these shots available during your Disney vacation this fall, even if you don’t attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. However, the vast majority of the new special magic photo shots I’m telling you about in this post will only be available during the ticketed event. If you’d like more information about Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, please read this.
Here are some of my favorite new and classic special Magic Photo Shots available during this year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties festivities. I’m also sharing where you’ll be likely to find these special shots available.
Location: Gardens near Casey’s Corner and The Plaza Restaurant
New this year! I really want to do this one!
Photo: Disney Photo Pass
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
Main Street U.S.A.
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks..
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
In Front of The Haunted Mansion
Another classic returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
This fun lantern shot is also returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Liberty Square Near the Hall of Presidents
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year–one of my FAVORITES!
Photo: Disney Parks
Castle Walls Near Pinocchio Village Haus
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Near the Purple Wall by Laugh Floor (Monsters, Inc.)
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Select Spots in Front of or Near Cinderella Castle
Classic returning this year. How great are these kids? Really acting their little hearts out!
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Which New Special Magic Photo Shot Do YOU Want??
There are some really fun new Magic Photo shots this year, aren’t there? Several look like fun. And of course, some favorite Magic Photo Shots from the last few years are coming back this year, too.
Hopefully at least a few of your favorite shots will be available during the regular park days this fall, but remember: most of these are special just for the Halloween parties. If you’ve never been to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, it is a special ticketed evening event featuring special Halloween themed shows, treats, special merchandise, trick or treating and a really terrific parade. Click here to learn more. It’s not to late to book your trip for this Halloween season. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a no obligation quote!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
If you prefer to read this information, keep reading!
Disney PhotoPass and Disney Memory Maker
One question I get asked a lot from my clients and friends and family is “Should we purchase the Memory Maker?” The short answer? It depends.
Ok, for me, it’s pretty much always YES. BUT, I’m a HUGE photo nerd.
For more NORMAL people, there are several things to consider, and I will get to those in tomorrow’s video. Today we are going to start with the basics: What is Disney PhotoPass and how does it work? In tomorrow’s video (Part 2 in this series), we will focus on the memory maker product, and will answer the question of whether or not to buy.
But first for those of you that DON’T know, let’s start with:
What is Disney PhotoPass?
Disney PhotoPass is a service that Disney added years ago, and I think it’s absolute GENIUS. Basically, they have photographers stationed at numerous locations around each park to take pictures of you and your group.
This completely solves the “Did Mom even GO on that vacation? She’s not in ANY of the pictures” dilemma. For many families, there is always one person that takes all the pictures and they are never in any of the shots. Or, people rotate who takes the pictures, but there are never any pictures of EVERYONE together, because one person always steps out to take the picture. Most people don’t carry around tripods and take the time to set up timed tripod shots on vacation. For some, Selfies have helped to address this problem, but with a Selfie, it’s still really tough to get a group or to include people AND a landmark in the picture.
Photo: Disney PhotoPass
With PhotoPass, Disney has solved that problem. Basically, the PhotoPass photographer will take your group’s picture, usually with a park icon or landmark in the background, and then they will either scan your magic band (the easiest) or give you a PhotoPass card with a 16-digit number on the back. Note: If you are given a Photopass card, immediately take a picture of the back of the card just in case. If you lose the card, but have the number, you can still locate your pictures.
Not All PhotoPass Photos are Created Equal
A couple of caveats: The skill of the various photopass photographers varies. Some are very experienced, fun to work with, and very talented. Others are more point and click—with varying degrees of success. Therefore I always recommend that you get a LOT of photopass photos taken. Take advantage of the opportunities whenever they present themselves. Odds are, if you take a BUNCH of photopass pictures, you end up with at least a few you really like. Here are a couple examples of PhotoPass pictures that didn’t really work out so well.
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In NON COVID times, you could also ask the photographer to take a picture of your group with your phone or camera. This is not an option currently due to Covid related restrictions, but I’m assuming this option will return at some point in the future—but current rules prohibit the photographers from touching your phone or camera.
Disney PhotoPass and Special Moments
If you look on Facebook or the internet, you will see THOUSANDS of PhotoPass pictures that people have posted. There are tons of examples of people using PhotoPass to announce they have a baby on the way, the sex of the baby, that they got engaged or married.
In our case, my husband proposed to me at the Magic Kingdom after the fireworks. Because he’s brilliant, he surprised me with the proposal when we went to take a PhotoPass picture, so we have the moment captured forever.
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Are they great pictures? No, it was very crowded, and I at first thought he fell (he’d done the marathon the day before and was in a lot of pain), and then there was lots of crying and laughing. But I feel so lucky that I have that moment forever captured by that PhotoPass photographer. And the next day, we found another PhotoPass photographer that was SO excited about our engagement, she spent TONS of time with us (there was no line,I promise) and took a gazillion pictures of the ring, and the two of us. It was really fun.
Disney PhotoPass and Group Attractions
There are normally even photopass photographers at big group attractions (Enchanted Tales with Belle, for example). These attractions aren’t operating right now, but once they return, I’m sure the PhotoPass photographer will return with them.
The PhotoPass photographer takes lots of pictures of the group and they will hand out PhotoPass cards at the end; once you enter the number on your computer, you’ll have access to ALL the pictures they took during that particular event. If your kid had a role in the show, you do NOT want to lose that number! So take a picture of the back of the card, just in case!
Disney PhotoPass and Attraction Photos!
Lots of Disney rides take your picture at some point during the ride, some rides even take video! These pictures and videos are now PhotoPass pictures, and can be attached to your Magic Band or PhotoPass card. The RFID technology in your MagicBand communicates with the reader at the attraction and automatically adds the photos or videos to your account.
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Character Dining and PhotoPass?
Character dining can also (sometimes) include PhotoPass. Granted, right now, character dining isn’t happening, but it WILL return eventually, I promise! Some character dining meals offer PhotoPass pictures, but not all of them. Also IF there is a PhotoPass photographer at a character meal, it will usually just be for a picture you take before you enter the restaurant. For example, if you are dining at a Character Meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table, there is usually a Photopass photographer in the lobby with Cinderella waiting to take your picture before you head upstairs for your meal. (Please note that Cinderella’s Royal Table HAS reopened for lunch and dinner, however, Cinderella has NOT yet returned.)
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PhotoPass photographers do not go around with the characters as they visit your table at ANY character meal, so ALWAYS bring your camera to character meals.
Customize your Photos!
After your trip, you will be able to visit the PhotoPass website to view all your pictures. You can add borders and stickers to the photos, and you can make products like Photobooks, calendars and mugs featuring your pictures on the Disney PhotoPass website. One picture can easily turn into 10 or 15 by the time you are done playing with borders, cropping, black and white, etc. Some borders are unique to particular locations, seasons, or events, adding a little extra magic to those photos.
NOTE: Pictures are only available on the PhotoPass site for 30 days (unless you are an Annual Passholder.) Right now, if you are visiting this fall between October 15 and November 30, Disney is extending that 30 days through the end of the year. So you’ll have a little extra time to play with your pictures.
Magic Shots
Lets talk about Magic Shot. Magic Shots are pictures taken by a PhotoPass photographer with a little something extra magical added later. The most common Magic Shots feature TinkerBell standing on the palm of your hand, or a bunch of balloons added to your upstretched arm.
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There are a variety of Magic Shots available at different times. During Star Wars Weekend a few years ago, we got Magic Shots with light sabers added. Recently, they added some pirate themed Magic Shots near the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.
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During the Halloween season, you might find Magic Shots with ghosts near the haunted mansion, or Flaming jack o lanterns throughout the Magic Kingdom. During the Winter holiday season, you may find snow or Wooden Soldiers added to your photos.
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Over at Hollywood Studios, we’ve learned there’s a new special magic shot that includes the child (frequently called baby Yoda, although he isn’t in fact Yoda) from the Mandolorian. Here’s a look at this one from Disney Parks and Resorts.
Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot – The Child, Mandalorian
Special holiday themed magic shots become available November 6.
Disney PhotoPass Photos and the My Disney Experience App
Disney PhotoPass pictures are available in the My Disney Experience app, so you’ll be able to look at them as your trip goes along. Most photos and videos appear in your app within 20 minutes.
Unless you’ve purchased the Memory Maker product, the pictures will have a watermark on them, preventing you from having a sharable, downloadable image without paying for it. If you’ve already purchased Memory Maker, your pictures will appear completely clear and fabulous.
One of the highlights of my last trip was overhearing a young family showing their daughter a picture they had just taken on Main Street. She was AMAZED to see that Tinkerbell had joined them in the picture and she was so dazzled by the magic!
Tips for Getting that “Magic” Shot
Disney changes what Magic Shots are available from time to time, and not all PhotoPass photographers will offer to do them. Your odds are better if there’s no line and if you’re nice and friendly. PhotoPass photographers work very hard, and are on their feet for many hours a day, usually in pretty hot temperatures and sometimes not treated very well by guests. In my experience, if you are nice and there’s not a line, they’re more likely to spend a few extra minutes with you, and that can often result in some Magic Shots. To see what Magic Shots are currently available, visit the albums at the Disney Photo Pass Facebook Page.
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Coming Up in the Next Video (And Post!)
In tomorrow’s video, we’ll talk about Memory Maker, and how you can have PhotoPass without Memory Maker, but you can’t have Memory Maker without PhotoPass.
Thank you for watching, and please tune in Monday for the second video (and blog post) in this series, discussing Disney’s Memory Maker product.
In this week’s Disney Parks News Update, we have GUNS confiscated on Disney property, refurbishment updates, LOTS of food news, scary clowns and more! Please watch this week’s Disney Parks News Update video below.
EPCOT currently looks a little bit like a construction zone, as EPCOT Future World is in the midst of a major overhaul. There are a number of projects in progress around EPCOT’s Entrance and throughout Future World. Among these projects is the Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster, scheduled to open sometime next year. We are happy to report that construction appears to be moving ahead on all these projects. We don’t have completion dates or opening dates for any of the work going on, but we are hopeful that Disney is on track with their plans to have this work complete in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary next October.
Frozen Ever After
Frozen Ever After (Photo: Disney Parks)
A VERY popular attraction, Frozen Ever After, is closing for refurbishment in a couple of weeks. Don’t worry—it’s only for a few days. The attraction will be closed from November 2 – 6, 2020. This is likely just for cleaning and general maintenance; this is not enough time for Disney to do any major overhauls. Not to mention, this is still a fairly new attraction. It really shouldn’t need any major refurbishment yet.
We’ll be in the park the following week, and will let you know how the attraction looks when it reopens!
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is reopening at long last on November 1, 2020. If you aren’t familiar with the Art of Animation resort, it is a very popular Value Resort, and one of our favorites. Check out our blog post about this resort here.
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During the shutdown, Art of Animation got some minor refurbishments, including new flooring and updates in the lobby area. The rooms themselves got minor updates to furnishings and room details.
If you haven’t had a chance to check out Art of Animation, it is located on the Skyliner line, and it’s a worthwhile stop to check it out. All the themed icons from Cars, The Lion King, Finding Nemo and the Little Mermaid make terrific backdrops and props for unique family pictures.
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The Big Blue Pool, Art of Animation’s largest pool, did not get it’s refurbishment done during the closure, however. As a result, the Big Blue Pool will be closed for refurbishment from January 1, 2021 through early April 2021.
Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts
Guests are encouraged to use the Flippin’ Fins Pool (Little mermaid area) or the Cozy cone Pool (in the Cars area) during the closure. The Schoolyard Sprayground play area is NOT being affected by the closure.
Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts
Guests staying at Art of Animation during this time should expect to see or hear construction during their stay; however, construction does not occur between dusk and 9 am, so your rest time should not be impacted.
If you have a reservation during this time and are concerned about this refurbishment, please reach out to your travel agent (or me!).
Boardwalk Inn: Luna Pool
A highlight for me personally in this week’s Disney Parks News Update is about the CLOWN over at the Luna Pool at the Boardwalk Inn.
The pool at the Boardwalk Inn, the Luna Pool is currently being refurbished while the Boardwalk Inn is closed. The pool area at the Boardwalk Inn is themed to the turn of the 20th century Coney island. The area has a sort of “Circus-y/Old timey amusement park” vibe.
Boardwalk Inn Luna Pool Area (Photo: Disney Parks)
The centerpiece of the pool area has always been a giant clown face. The mouth of the clown is a waterslide. I’m not a giant fan of clowns to begin with but this clown? Totally creeps me out. In fact, I’ve avoided booking there for my family because of the creepy clown.
Boardwalk Inn Luna Pool (Photo: Disney Parks)
I mean, look at that thing. Don’t you think it’s a little creepy? (OR A LOT CREEPY???!!!)
Here’s the big news: locals have reported that the giant clown head has been REMOVED as part of the Luna Pool refurbishment!!! It has been seen being taken away from the pool area (although no one actually saw it dismantled, thrown in the trash or burned in a ceremonial cleansing so we do not know for sure it is not coming back). The area where the clowns head WAS is still covered with tarps, but work is continuing.
Dare we hope that the clown is gone for good? Could the Imagineers have something new and creative for that area that doesn’t terrorize small children (or ME)??? I do not know, unfortunately. We will definitely scope out the pool area when we visit next month; hopefully we will be able to give you a more definitive update then. But for now? I’m happily booking a reservation for my mom and I at Boardwalk for May, assuming the clown will be GONE.
Food News
We have lots of FOOD NEWS in this week’s Disney Parks News Update!
ABC Commissary
Over at Hollywood Studios, the ABC Commissary has reopened with a brand new menu. Some old favorites are still there, but the menu has had a major overhaul. Tacos and curry rice bowls have taken center stage. New items include Pork carnitas tacos, Shrimp tacos, curry rice bowl with shrimp and a plant based curry rice bowl with tofu. Two new chicken sandwiches also join the lineup. Kids can choose from a Pork taco, grilled cheese sandwich, a turkey sandwich or their old favorite, uncrustables.
ABC Commissary (Photo: Disney Parks)
Minnie’s Halloween Dine
Also at Hollywood Studios, we have a new menu for Minnie’s Halloween Dine over at Hollywood and Vine.
Photo: Disney Parks
This meal does feature character appearances. The characters will parade through the dining area and wave and let you take pictures. However, they won’t be stopping at your table for individual pictures as you are probably used to from character meals pre Covid.
This is a fixed price, three course meal, featuring a salad, entrée and dessert.
Photo: Disney Parks
Entrée choices include prime rib, roasted turkey breast, macaroni and cheese with shrimp, Salmon, Pork osso bucco and plant based pan seared king trumpet mushrooms.
Photo: Disney Parks
Desserts include your choice of apple blueberry pie, banana crème pie, chocolate smores pie, vanilla crème brulee and a plant based cherry lemon pie.
Photo: Disney Parks
Cocktails, wine and beer are available for an additional price. Beer starts at $7.50, Wine by the glass starts at $10, and cocktails start at $13.
In the past I have NOT enjoyed Hollywood & Vine, however, I have to admit this sounds pretty good. We may have to check this out for ourselves!
Chef Mickey’s
Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts
Next up in Food news: Chef Mickey’s Character Dining is coming back! One of the most popular character meals on property, Chef Mickey’s will soon be visited by Chef Mickey himself (and a few of his friends!).
Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts
Starting on December 16, 2020, Mickey and Minnie and their friends will be back at Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It’s not quite the same—this is NOT a buffet at the moment, and the characters will not be coming to your table. However, the characters will “pop up” at surprise intervals and parade through the dining rooms, waving at guests for pictures. Reservations for Chef mickey’s character dining open up October 17.
Photo: Disney Parks
Its important to note that Chef Mickey’s IS currently open. Right now, it’s an all you care to eat family feast WITHOUT characters. Pricing for adults is $25 and kids are $14 (plus tax). However, once the characters return, pricing will jump to $42 for adults and $27 for kids (plus tax).
Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts
In addition to the characters joining diners, there are three new entrees being added to the menu. Mickey’s celebration pancakes, a loaded potato cheese casserole with smoked bacon crumbles and chives and finally, Goofy’s Banana Bread French Toast—which looks and sounds like a heart attack on a plate.
Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts
It will probably taste AMAZING though. If you plan to check out this very popular character dining experience, reservations are HIGHLY recommended (really, required).
Updated Mask Warnings
New mask warning signs appeared throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks last week. These signs more specifically state that guests must wear their masks properly, at all times, and further state that guests who do not wear their masks will be asked to leave the parks.
In addition to the new signs located throughout the parks, Disney has added an audio announcement about the mask policy that plays in the parks several times each day. Finally, they’ve added the message to the My Disney Experience phone app. Disney is very serious that guests understand this policy.
I know there has been some confusion on this: Florida was recently moved to Phase 3, which means the Florida state government is no longer requiring masks in all public places, and the state has rescinded the fines for not wearing a mask. HOWEVER, it is important to recognize that each business has the right to establish and follow their own protocols, based on what they believe is safest for their guests or customers.
Disney is SERIOUS about their Mask Policy
Completely separate from what the state dictates, Disney has their OWN policies. Disney has determined, based on their research and advice from scientific advisors and guidelines from the CDC (Center for Disease Control) that masks help prevent the spread of Covid-19 (and other airborne spread diseases). Disney is requiring all guests over the age of 2 to wear masks at all times while in the theme parks, and while in public areas of Disney resorts.
Photo: Disney Parks
I understand this is a hot button topic for some people. Bottom line: If you aren’t willing to wear a mask during your Disney visit, do not visit Disney.
If you don’t wear a mask, you will not be permitted entry to the theme parks. If you remove your mask (other than while dining), you will be asked to leave the theme park. It’s very simple. If your aren’t comfortable wearing a mask during your Disney theme park visit, do not visit Disney until masks are no longer required. Hopefully, sometime next year. Disney has a very good refund policy right now, due to the challenges raised by Covid-19, and I am confident they will work with you to cancel or reschedule your trip.
Walt Disney World Theme Parks Capacity
In last week’s Disney Parks News Update, we talked about capacity at the theme parks. We expressed our belief that Disney has been quietly increasing capacity at the theme parks. This belief is based on anecdotal and observational evidence. The theme parks are feeling more crowded. We are seeing much longer lines for attractions. It’s getting more difficult to social distance in main traffic areas throughout the parks. Park reservations are fully booked up, and then Disney releases more availability for certain days, especially weekends. In general, it just “feels” like the parks are getting more crowded every week.
Bob Chapek, Disney CEO
However, Bob Chapek, Disney’s CEO told CNBC this week that Walt Disney World theme parks are still capped at 25% capacity. He also stated that the parks will remain capped at 25% capacity until the CDC guidelines change.
We have to assume that Bob Chapek knows what he’s talking about. He’s the boss of all the bosses, and while he’s not in the trenches admitting guests into the park, we figure he’s heavily involved with the decisions related to capacity. Especially as those decisions will affect the overall profitability of the theme parks dramatically, right?
We’re NOT at 25% Capacity?
So what could explain the discrepancy between what we (and many others who have visited over the last few weeks) are feeling and what Bob Chapek tells us must be true?
1) It’s likely that when the parks first opened, they were not any where near 25% capacity. Perhaps they opened at 5 or 10% and hovered there for a while. We saw lots of pictures and comments that the parks were like ghost towns, and all the attractions were walk-ons during the first couple of months. That has certainly changed. So perhaps what we are seeing now is truly 25% capacity?
2) Another factor in longer lines could be staffing related. If Disney is staffing fewer cast members on attractions, perhaps some “lanes” are closed in attractions? This could slow down the movement of guests through those rides, resulting in longer lines and more congestion?
I’m not sure. It sure seems like the crowds we are seeing, especially in Hollywood Studios and the Magic Kingdom, are higher than 25% capacity. But we don’t work at the parks, and Disney is fairly tightlipped about what they consider FULL capacity to be. So the short answer right now? We don’t know. We will update you next month with our perspective when we are actually there ourselves.
Assault Weapons at Disney World?
Our final story this week is a troubling one. We have learned, courtesy of the Orlando Sentinel as well as several other news outlets, that a Disney guest brought an AR-15 rifle and 9 mm handgun with him on his Disney vacation!
The guest, a 43 year old man from Palm Beach Gardens, checked into the Polynesian Villages Resort over Labor Day Weekend. When the guns were discovered in his luggage, Disney contacted the local sheriff. The man had a concealed weapons permit, and therefore was not arrested.
However, Disney does not allow weapons of any kind on property, so Disney confiscated and held the man’s arsenal for him until the end of his vacation. He stated he brought the weapons because he was worried about his family’s safety during the social justice protests in the Orlando area last month.
Personally, I think if you are worried enough about the safety of your family that you need to bring an assault rifle, a hand gun and more than 100 rounds of ammunition with you to DISNEY WORLD where there are THOUSANDS of unarmed adults and children, perhaps you should postpone your vacation until a time when it feels safer for you to visit.
Again, Disney is being extremely flexible with cancellations, refunds and rescheduling. I would never want anyone to feel unsafe, but we can’t have assault rifles and other deadly weapons making their way onto Disney property.
To be clear: Disney does not allow guests to bring weapons of any kind onto its property. If you have issues with this policy, please contact Disney directly.
Disney Parks News Update: Final Thoughts
That’s it for this week’s Disney Parks News Update. It’s good to see that in some ways, things at the parks are starting to look a little more normal. However, it is a sign of the times that we are seeing stronger mask warnings from Disney, and that we had a story this week that included the word “assault rifle”. I’m hopeful that we will have more stories about things getting back to normal as time goes on.
Thank you for reading!
Happy dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
Now that we are “officially” in the Halloween season (which apparently begins in August these days), Disney is working hard to get guests excited about visiting Walt Disney World during Halloween. It sounds like we can count on more Halloween fun at Disney World this fall. Previously, we talked about Minnie’s Seasonal Dining bringing Halloween Festivities to Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We also shared Disney’s announcement that adults will be able to wear costumes this year when they visit the Magic Kingdom between September 15 and October 31. Read more about that announcement and other related news in this post.
The Cadaver Dans
Good news! The beloved Dapper Dans are returning to Walt Disney World this Halloween season. Beginning September 20, 2020, guests will be able to see the Dapper Dans appearing as their Halloween alter egos, the Cadaver Dans.
The Dapper Dans (Photo: Disney Parks)
The Cadaver Dans will emerge from their Tomb several times each day to thrill (or is that chill?) guests with their acappella performances. Personally, I’m hoping that the Dapper Dans are back for good. These wonderful performers have been missed. Hopefully this news means MORE of the streetmosphere performers all over the parks will soon be returning.
Here’s a video from a few years ago of the Cadaver Dans in action at Disneyland.
Halloween Character Cavalcades
As you may (or may not) already be aware, Disney’s response to Covid-19 has included a lot of restrictions to help ensure social distancing. Among these restrictions are no character greetings and no parades. In lieu of both, Disney has been sending out Character Cavalcades several times each day. The Character Cavalcades are essentially mini “spontaneous” parades that give guests an opportunity to wave at their favorite characters and take pictures of them. The guiding principal is that these cavalcades aren’t scheduled. This way, guests don’t congregate and create crowds lining up for a parade.
Halloween Character Cavalcades coming this Halloween Season (Photo: Disney Parks)
From September 15 – October 31, the Character Cavalcades will be Halloween themed, featuring characters in costume. Several times each day, Character Cavalcades will pop up on the parade route and journey down Main Street.
In addition, Disney promises that guests may get an opportunity on some days to see a cavalcade of their favorite villains! Other than the Halloween season, most villains are rarely seen by guests. Getting a chance to see Maleficent, the Queen of Hears or Jafar will be exciting for many! Disney says we may also get to see a Cavalcade led by the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington. Dare we hope to see Sally at his side? (unconfirmed, I’m just hopeful.)
Halloween Fun at Disney World
I’m glad to see Disney injecting a little more “Halloween” into this Halloween season. So many guests have been disappointed by the cancellation of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween parties this year. It will be fun for guests to be able to get little snippets of the party fun in their regular park day. And who can resist the Cadaver Dans? Creepy but SO fun.
The Cadaver Dans (Photo: Disney Parks)
Fans of Disney villains will have fun hunting for sightings of their favorite villains, as well.
Are you planning to enjoy some Halloween fun at Disney World this season? Or will you be adding some Disney magic to your home Halloween celebrations? Please like this post and comment below.
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. I was at Costco earlier today and they have their CHRISTMAS stuff on display. September 11, people. That is WAY too early. I love Christmas, but come on! Halloween in August and Christmas in September. We need to slow down and enjoy this tail end of Summer while we can. I know fall is coming, but I refuse to accept winter is on the way!
P.P.S. Looking for Disney themed Halloween merchandise to bring some Disney to your home Halloween celebrations? Check out this post. (and yes Disney is also selling Christmas merchandise but I’m going to tell you about that until the proper time!)
Walt Disney World is taking one more step back towards normal. This week, more Disney restaurants are reopening.
Cinderella’s Royal Table
One of the most popular Disney restaurants reopening is Cinderella’s Royal Table. This restaurant, “hidden” inside Cinderella Castle, is reopening September 24, 2020. Reservations will open up on September 11, 2020.
A couple of things to keep in mind: the Princesses will NOT be visiting every table as they have in the past. In addition, you will not take a picture with Cinderella before your meal like you used to. The official release says “the princesses will be taking a break from their royal duties greeting guests”, so at least initially, there will be no royal visitors during your meal. Perhaps in the future, the Princesses may come through the dining area so you can take pictures from a distance, (this is how Beast sightings are handled at Be Our Guest) but this is not confirmed.
Be Our Guest: The Beast Does a Walk Through (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
At this time, it appears that Cinderella’s Royal Table is opening for lunch and dinner. It doesn’t appear that it will open for breakfast, at least not initially.
No pricing information has been released, but the cynic in me suspects it will be the same as it was before, despite the lack of character interaction and photo opportunities.
If you haven’t been to Cinderella’s Royal Table, it is a beautiful dining room. The food is fairly good, but it is a very pricey meal. In the past, Disney also required full payment at the time the reservation was made. I don’t know if that will still be the case; we will find out once reservations open on September 11.
The Fairy Godmother at Cinderella’s Royal Table (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Update: Reservations are Open
**Update: September 11, 2020: Reservations officially opened today for Cinderella’s Royal Table. In the interest of research, I tested booking a reservation for two adults for both lunch and dinner. The price has NOT been reduced; it is $62.00 per adult plus tax. In addition, Cinderella’s Royal Table is one of the few table service restaurants that requires full payment in advance in order to make a reservation.
Full Payment Required at the Time of Reservation
So book a table for two adults at Cinderella’s Royal Table for either lunch or dinner, the total cost that you must pay AT THE TIME YOU MAKE THE RESERVATION is $154.38 (including tax). This is not a new thing; CRT has required full payment in advance for at least the last 10 years, probably longer. I think this policy is due to the popularity of this dining location. Disney wants to be sure you aren’t making a “maybe” reservation that might be canceled; you are DEFINITELY planning on keeping this reservation. (Note: As with any other reservation, you ARE able to cancel a Cinderella’s Royal Table reservation and get your money back; however, your money is tied up from the moment you make the reservation until you either a) use the reservation or b) cancel the reservation.
My husband and I have eaten at Cinderella’s Royal Table a few times in the past. One of my favorites was the morning after we got engaged. All the princesses made a very big deal out of my ring (and my handsome prince!). It was a lot of fun.
Sleeping Beauty Greeting, January 2013
Is it worth it?
The quality of the food does not really warrant the $62/person price tag–it’s the added value of the experience that gives Cinderella’s Royal Table a boost. Being inside the Castle, entering where you are not allowed to enter UNLESS you have a reservation–that’s pretty cool. The dining room itself is nice, if rather loud. They pack every table in the room (Most likely that is different right now due to Covid), and with the high ceilings, the sound really builds. This is not a quiet, elegant dining experience. It’s FUN, but not so much with the elegance.
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Honestly, it’s the combination of being in the Castle and the Princess interactions that have always made Cinderella’s Royal Table so special for us. I don’t think the experience is worth $62/person without the character interactions. Your mileage may vary, of course.
Gaston’s Tavern
Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland returned to operations on September 4, 2020. Guests have been enjoying the unique quick service menu at Gaston’s for a few days now.
Gaston’s (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
If you’ve never visited Gaston’s, the menu includes roasted pork shank, cinnamon rolls, mixed vegetable cups, mixed fruit cups, apple slices with caramel, and chocolate croissants, as well as some unique beverages and souvenir mugs.
It’s a fun place to visit, and in the past, was made more so by visits from Gaston himself. I’m not sure if those are still common, but I promise to check it out when we visit in November!
ABC Commissary
Over at Hollywood Studios, the ABC Commissary is reopening on October 8, 2020. Disney calls the ABC Commissary “Fast Casual”, but it’s a pretty decent quick service restaurant with LOTS of indoor seating. (Great when you need a break in the air conditioning!)
The announcement specifically mentions the Commissary reopening for lunch and does not mention dinner, so dinner service may not open for a while yet. However, the ABC Commissary does support mobile ordering for your quick service meal, and is another option for burgers, sandwiches and salads.
Hollywood & Vine
Another Disney restaurant reopening at Hollywood Studios is the Hollywood & Vine family-style table service restaurant. I have eaten at Hollywood & Vine TWICE in the last 10 years, and vowed never to return (found the food quality very poor, and the experience WAY overpriced). However, our last visit was several years ago, so we may give this one another shot…eventually. However, any additional Disney restaurants reopening are a good thing, so we’ll view this positively.
Minnie’s Seasonal Dining is scheduled to return to Hollywood & Vine starting Friday, September 25, 2020. In seasons past, this was a character meal where the characters would come to your table. Of course in this era of Covid and no character greetings, things will be different this year. Hollywood & Vine will be decked out in Halloween glory. Your party will be served a “monster” feast at your table. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse and their friends will make appearances so you can wave and snap photos. Unfortunately, there will be no table side character interactions, but you will be able to see the characters in their Halloween finery, at least.
Minnie Mouse Hollywood & Vine (Photo: Disney Parks)
The official release states there were be Halloween decor and music, as well as “scary” good food. The jury will remain out on how “good” until the first guests start to report back to us.
Update: Reservations are Open
**Update: September 11, 2020. Reservations officially opened today for Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine. I tested booking reservations over a few different days. Surprisingly, several of the days I tried were already completely booked up. This really isn’t too strange; with Covid-19 precautions in place, this restaurant is probably only reserving about 20-25% of it’s normal capacity. It’s not a huge space, so it makes sense there weren’t that many reservations available to begin with.
Is it worth it?
The good news: this is NOT a dining experience that requires full payment in advance. The bad news: This is still a fairly pricey dining experience, reflecting pricing that you’d expect with most character meals. $35.99 – $59.99 (kids and adults), except you have no character interactions. My bad dining experiences pre-date these Minnie Seasonal Dining events, and the updated menu sounds good, so perhaps the food had gotten better? I will have to investigate and get back to you on that. These meals include a salad (choose from two options for the table), an entree (choose from six entree options), and a dessert (choose from five dessert options).
What does this mean?
The good news is that Disney is trying to return to more normalcy, and they obviously believe they have enough business to support these additional restaurant locations opening up.
Mom at Gaston’s (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
I don’t think things are returning to normal as quickly as any of us, especially Disney, had hoped. However, even small baby steps in the right directions are positive.
If you are planning to visit the parks this fall, will you be visiting any of these Disney restaurants reopening soon? Please like this post and comment below.
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. Want more information about the reopening of Disney theme parks? Check out this post.
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but fall is fast approaching. Halloween candy is suddenly out at all the grocery stores. Those “Spirit of Halloween” temporary shops filled with costumes and decorations for Halloween are starting to pop up around every corner. It’s true. Autumn is coming, and with it, Halloween. Halloween at Disney World has been an extremely popular time for many years. Usually, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties (a separate, ticketed event) start in late August and run through Halloween weekend. This year, Halloween at Disney World will look a bit different.
Disney prepares for Halloween (Photo: Disney Parks)
No MNSSHP Events–Cancelled
All the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties (MNSSHP) originally scheduled for this late summer and fall have been cancelled and refunded. While this is disappointing, it is also extremely easy to understand. With tickets for this event approaching $100 per person, attendee expectations are high. Many of the cornerstones of a MNSSHP would be impossible under the current restrictions due to Covid-19.
Hallowishes fireworks Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (Photo: Disney Parks)
The Boo-to-You Parade, a staple of the MNSSHP, and my personal FAVORITE Disney parade, can’t happen in this era of social distancing. Nighttime fireworks displays are NOT happening at the moment, again due to the gathering of crowds. The special Halloween themed fireworks extravaganza is another vital component of MNSSHP.
One of the big highlights of the annual MNSSHP is that you can see characters you don’t often see, and most characters are in Halloween costumes of their own. That’s very fun, but again, character greetings are not possible right now due to social distancing needs due to the pandemic. Even the various shows and dance parties that are part of any MNSSHP can’t happen right now due to social distancing requirements. Finally, you can’t trick or treat at the candy sessions in our current climate, because the social distancing lines would be EVERYWHERE, and it would be a mess. So the parties are not happening this year.
Halloween Decorations at Magic Kingdom
There may be no Halloween parties this year, but Halloween is still coming to Disney World. Disney will decorate the Magic Kingdom for the fall season, with lots of pumpkins and grinning jack o’lanterns. Traditionally, most of the Halloween and fall decor is mainly on Main Street. Some years, there’s been a little overflow into Frontierland.
It’s Time for Halloween at Disney World! (Photo: Disney Parks)
Main Street USA will be decked out for Halloween from September 15 through October 31.
Halloween merchandise, however, is another story. That will be (and already is, in many cases!) EVERYWHERE throughout the Magic Kingdom. For more information on what Halloween merchandise has been released this year on ShopDisney.com, please visit this post. Most of the Halloween merchandise featured at ShopDisney.com is also available in the park. Disney has a short window of opportunity to sell their Halloween merchandise, so they will make it very easy for us to find!
Halloween merchandise has arrived! Candy spiral ears—so cute! (Photo: Disney Parks)
Cavalcade of Characters
Since the parks reopened in July, character greetings have been off limits due to social distancing requirements. Disney’s solution has been periodic “character cavalcades” where the characters come out on floats and interact with guests from a distance. These happen a few times each day, and are vaguely reminiscent of the Move it, Shake it “mini parades” that they were doing the last couple of years.
For this Halloween at Disney World, Disney plans to jazz up the character cavalcades. The characters will be dressed in their Halloween costumes! I love this idea, and am happy that guests will be able to see the characters in their Halloween costumes without purchasing a pricey Halloween party ticket.
Characters in Costume Photo: Disney Parks
The really cute thing is that it seemed that each character had at least a couple of different costumes, so if you went every year to the party, the characters would be in different costumes.
Piglet in Costume (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Keep in mind these pictures are from MNSSHP from a few years ago, so we have no way of know which characters you might see this year in a character cavalcade, or what costume they might be wearing.
Mickey and Daisy in costume. (Photo Brooke Hudson)Mickey and Minnie at Halloween (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Adult Guests can Dress Up, TOO!
For the first time, Disney is letting adult guests wear costumes into the Magic Kingdom during regular business hours. Previously, the only time adult guests (and children over 14) could wear costumes was to the separate ticketed event, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Costume masks are NOT allowed, however, for adults or kids. Approved face coverings are still required, however.
Maria loves her new Disney Princess themed face mask. (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
All guests may wear their Halloween costumes or favorite Disney themed (or inspired) costumes into the Magic Kingdom this year, during regular park hours. The Halloween season at Disney World this year is from September 15 and October 31. It will be a TON of fun to see what everyone wears.
Just leave the costume weapons at home. Consider the heat, and think about safety. As Edna Mode would say “No Capes!”. They get caught, stepped on, ripped, dirty AND they’re heavy. Capes are technically allowed, but we recommend against them! Do YOU want to argue with Edna?
Edna Mode at Hollywood Studios
ShopDisney.comhas a lot of fun options for all ages (see last week’s blog post for more examples).
Halloween at Disney World: Snacks!
Let’s face it, when we start talking Halloween, most of us immediately start thinking of CANDY. Sweets and treats, right?
Halloween at Disney World means LOTS of sweet treats, all themed to the season.
Halloween goodies at Disney World (Photo: Disney Parks)
There are Halloween themed cupcakes and cookies and candy treats all over the Magic Kingdom during the Halloween season. You’ll find Halloween themed drinks, special Halloween ice cream flavors, even Halloween themed popcorn buckets! If you have the budget (and the sugar tolerance), you could quite happily indulge in different Halloween sweet treats for DAYS.
PhotoPass Halloween Surprises!
If you’ve read many of my other posts, you’ve probably recognized that I am a BIG fan of Disney PhotoPass. I love that there are so many opportunities throughout the parks where you can get pictures of your family or group without one of you having to NOT be in the picture in order to take the picture.
I also tell you all the time to take LOTS of Disney PhotoPass pictures when you are in the parks, because the quality of the photographers vary, as do the lighting conditions and the surrounding crowds. You just don’t know what you’ll get, so play the odds!
One favorite Disney PhotoPass treat are the “Magic Shots”. These are the pictures where the photographer “magically” adds something to your picture that will show up later, when you see the picture.
For example, you might see Tinkerbell sitting on your hand, or you might see a character sitting next to you on a bench.
Minnie Mouse Magic Shot (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)
Halloween Magic Shots
For Halloween, Disney has had a few Magic Shots in their arsenal, but USUALLY those were reserved for MNSSHP guests. This year, some special Halloween themed Magic Shots will be available in some areas of the Magic Kingdom throughout the day between September 15 and October 31. Keep in mind that not all PhotoPass photographers will have access to all Magic Shots. If the line is long, and the photographer is busy, they may not have time to set up a Magic Shot. These are special “extras”, not automatic or to be expected.
Here are a few sample Halloween Magic Shots that have been available in the past. We don’t know yet what Magic Shots will be available this year. I’ll keep you posted as I learn more.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (Photo: Disney Parks)
Are you ready for Halloween?
It still feels a bit early for me, but looking at all this stuff is starting to get me in the Halloween mood. We won’t make it Disney World this year for the Halloween fun; our trip is in November this year. But next year’s big family trip is in October, and I’m really looking forward to seeing the Magic Kingdom all decked out for Halloween. I’m hopeful that at least some of these changes for day guests to the park will stay in place for next year, even if they have the ticketed parties next year.
Costume silliness from a couple years ago. I was a witch (too easy!) and my husband went as Iron Man. (Photo: Linda Harkness)
Are you ready for Halloween at Disney World, or even in your neck of the woods? Do you add any Disney touches to your at home celebrations? Please comment below.
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. If you are thinking about a Disney vacation in 2021, now is the time! Vacation packages are available for most of the year. Please email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote.
Disneyland and Walt Disney World may have cancelled this year’s ticketed Halloween parties, but there is a LOT of fun Disney Halloween merchandise available for 2020!! Earlier this year, Disney made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s scheduled Mickey’s Very Scary Halloween Parties. A fairly large fall revenue source for Disney, these popular Halloween themed special events require a separate ticket for admission, and featured activities, entertainment and merchandise exclusive to the parties. (For more on this annual event, please see our posts here or here.)
Disney’s decision made sense to us. With social distancing requirements already impacting so much Disney entertainment, fireworks and parades, there was just no way to provide guests with the value they expect for the price of the party ticket. The decision was disappointing, but certainly the correct decision on Disney’s part. Guests that had already purchased tickets are being refunded.
Disney may be losing out on party ticket revenue but they are NOT going to let that merchandise revenue slip through their hands. Halloween is an extremely popular holiday in the United States, and Disney Halloween themed merchandise is second only to Disney Christmas/Holiday themed merchandise.
If you are unable to visit either of the Disney parks this year, don’t worry. ShopDisney.com has got you covered. This year’s shopDisney Halloween shop is filled with fun Disney Halloween merchandise. If you are a Disney Halloween merchandise fan, read on with caution. I take no responsibility for your credit card melting. 😉
*The fine print: There are some links provided on our site and in this article. If you follow one of these links and ultimately make a purchase, we receive a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay in anyway. We provide information about Disney related products that we believe you will enjoy. Thank you.
Halloween Costumes
One of my favorite departments in the Halloween Shop at shopDisney.com this year is the Halloween costumes section.
I mean look at some of these…couldn’t you just die from the cute?
When I was little, my mom made our costumes, and they were the BEST. But these days, most parents don’t have time to go the homemade route. If you can’t go do homemade, I think these Disney costumes look like a great alternative. (And if you ARE going the homemade route, I think you can find some terrific inspiration looking at all the Disney costumes!)
The kids costumes have the widest variety of options. If your kid loves Disney or Marvel or Star Wars, you are likely to find something they will love. Looks at some of these adorable options.
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The pricing on the kids costumes covers a wide range. The lowest price I found was $29.99, and the highest was a whopping $500!!!
Disney has even included a couple of costumes for kids that have a wheelchair that also needs a costume. Check these out!
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Finally, we have the “not a costume” costume. I love this idea for the kids in colder climates who always have to put a coat on over their cute costumes. These are hoodies, themed to various characters. Your kid can warm and cozy AND be channeling their inner Monster (or Princess). There are a bunch of these, here are just a couple.
Of course, the adults can’t be left out of the mix, right? A word for my fellow plus size Disney fans—these costumes are not for us. Most adult costumes come in S,M and L. A few offer size XXL, but not many. And based on my experience with Disney sizing, I predict these probably run small. No plus size options at all.
There aren’t a lot of options in the Adult Costume category. And like most Halloween stores, you’ll notice most of the women’s costumes walk the “sexy” line and most of the men’s are “heroes” costumes.
Here are some of the costumes I found:
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The Sanderson Sisters would be fun if you were going to a party in a group, and all loved Hocus Pocus!
I didn’t even think this was a real thing. Over the years, I have seen some animals in costumes, but those were generally pretty simple and handmade. I had no idea that Disney pet costumes were a real thing. But they are!!
These pet costumes are pretty intricate and detailed. Would your pet actually be willing to wear one of these?
My favorite is the Ewok. So darn cute. But what dog would actually wear it and not chew on it? If you dress your pet up for Halloween and they enjoy it, please send me a picture for the blog! I’d love to post your pictures and show off your pet costumes. They do not need to be Disney themed!
Well, it’s pretty hard to beat the costumes, but Disney does try in the home decor section.
If you are a fan of the Haunted Mansion, the Nightmare Before Christmas or Hocus Pocus, Disney has a home decor item for you to help get you home in the Halloween spirit.
Check out this cute collectible featuring the Sanderson sisters from Hocus Pocus. (Did you hear Hocus Pocus is getting a reboot? More on that in a future post!)
Click the photo for more information
The Nightmare Before Christmas stuff is really cute. It also includes some party decorations (balloons, photo booth props,etc.) if you are planning a Nightmare Before Christmas Halloween party!
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There is so much stuff! I love the Minnie themed Halloween kitchen towels. There are several Mickey head pumpkin designs as well. Take a look at just a few of the items below.
And of course, there’s the Haunted Mansion merchandise. Disney’s line of Haunted Mansion themed merchandise is actually available all year round, but it seems particularly popular and appropriate around Halloween, doesn’t it? There are TONS of items in the Haunted Mansion “shop”, but here are a few that could add to your spooky theme for Halloween.
If you want to add a little Halloween into your every day wardrobe, this department is for you. Lots of Disney Halloween themed backpacks, T-shirts, sweatshirts, face masks and socks. There are pins and “ear hats” and even light up pumpkin Mickey head necklaces. Here’s just a sample of all the goodies up for grabs at shopDisney.com.
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Will Your Halloween Be Disney-Themed?
I don’t usually dress up for Halloween. However, I have been known to throw on a pair of Mickey or Minnie ears for the occasion. This year, I’m really thinking the Minnie Witch Hat ears and the light up Mickey head pumpkin necklace might just be my go-to.
What about all of you? Do you decorate for Halloween? Do you take your kids trick or treating? Do you wear a costume or go to any Halloween parties?
Please like this post and share below. I would love to know how you all celebrate Halloween, and whether any of you include Disney in your celebrations!
Photo: Disney Photo Pass
