We’ve been expecting this for a long time. Spaceship Earth was last updated in 2007, when new scenes and props were added to the attraction and Dame Judi Dench recorded a new narration. The 2007 refurbishment was the result of a six month closure of the attraction. This new refurbishment is going to be much more significant. Disney has announced that Spaceship Earth is closing for refurbishments on May 26, 2020.
Disney has not given us a firm timeline for this refurbishment; however, they have indicated a window of 18 – 30 months. I feel pretty comfortable predicting that this Spaceship Earth refurbishment will take at least 2 years.
Spaceship Earth Reimagining
Disney is calling this latest refurbishment of Spaceship Earth a “reimagining”. They are also telling us that it is going to be the most extensive refurbishment of the attraction since it opened in October 1982. The details, however, are sparse.
At last year’s D23 Expo, Disney announced the planned reimagining of Spaceship Earth. At that announcement, Disney shared that the new version of Spaceship Earth would focus on the journey of humanity through the ages. We were told that some scenes will be updated with new Disney magic, while some new scenes will be added.
It looks like the new iteration of this attraction will include new narration, telling a new story. The limited information we have indicates that light will be an important part of the new story. We will learn how light plays a role in our shared human journey, and what is possible when we all come together.
Disney has released this concept art for the updated Egypt scene in the attraction. This is a scene that is currently part of the attraction, but it is being updated and transformed to show the power of light.
Spaceship Earth Reimagining: Egypt (Concept Art: Disney Parks)
The Bad News: Spaceship Earth is Closing
There’s no getting around it. Major attraction refurbishments are a bummer. Spaceship Earth is going to close for a long time–at least 18 months, according to Disney.
Spaceship Earth is a popular dark ride, with ride vehicles constantly moving. It’s an attraction that absorbs a LOT of people per hour, and the line moves fairly quickly, when there is a line. Often, the lines are very short. Again, because the attraction is constantly moving and so many guests can be riding the attraction at once. It’s a nice break from the Florida heat, and is a fairly long attraction, so your feet and legs get a nice break.
The attraction also provides a unique souvenir: the little game at the end of the attraction results in an image that you can email to yourself (or others) featuring animation and your face(s).
Spaceship Earth being closed for such a long time is definitely bad news. However, there are some good things about this closure, too.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
The Good News
The most obvious good news is that Spaceship Earth is getting a necessary refurbishment. This attraction has needed an update for many years now. Some of the scenes are looking tired and worn and many of the vehicles have shown signs of wear for years. In addition, Disney has done so much with technology in the years since the last refurbishment, I’m excited to see what they integrate into Spaceship Earth. I’m looking forward to updated scenes, a new story and new narration. We may even get new vehicles (not confirmed).
October 2022 will be the 40th Anniversary of Epcot. I’m hopeful that the new iteration of Spaceship Earth will be open by then, if not sooner. I suspect the Imagineers are very cognizant of that anniversary date, and would really like to have the attraction completed and to be a cornerstone of that celebration.
More Good News
This is not necessarily directly related, but I have a theory. I suspect the opening of the new Ratatouille themed attraction in the France pavilion will dovetail pretty closely with the closure of Spaceship Earth for refurbishments. As I mentioned above, Spaceship Earth currently absorbs a LOT of people each hour. When it closes, those people will join the queues for other attractions, potentially making lines longer all over Epcot. However, there is a new attraction opening “this summer” that will potentially be able to absorb a lot of those people. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is a new dark ride that will feature trackless vehicles.
Ride Vehicle for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney has not given us a firm opening date for this attraction yet; however, I believe that it will closely coincide with the closing of Spaceship Earth. While I doubt that Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will move as many people through it per hour as Spaceship Earth does, a new attraction in the park will definitely help offset the loss of Spaceship Earth.
Currently, there is so much construction happening in the front of the park, the more Disney can move people through to World Showcase, the better. Getting Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ready to open has to be a pretty big priority for them right now, I believe.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Spaceship Earth closing for refurbishment is a good thing. I think the ride needs updating and an infusion of new technology. I am disappointed that I won’t get to ride it one last time before it closes, though. I’m worried about the impact of this attraction closing on the lines and crowds in the park. I’m hopeful that new attractions and activities in other areas of the park will help offset the closing of Spaceship Earth.
What do you think about this announcement? Are you excited about the changes to Spaceship Earth or do you wish they’d just leave it alone? Please let me know in the comments below!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today to start planning your next Disney adventure!
Today we have exciting news from Epcot. There’s a brand new restaurant open at Epcot. The Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue has opened at Epcot’s American Adventure pavilion. The Regal Eagle Smokehouse is named after Sam the Eagle of the The Muppets. Epcot’s newest quick service restaurant is themed to a barbecue cook-off, featuring competitors from across America.
Restaurant Logo, Disney Parks
Perhaps best of all? Mobile Ordering IS an option for the Regal Eagle Smokehouse through your My Disney Experience app, helping to minimize your time spent in LINE.
Liberty Inn Closed June 2019
For years, the food at the American Adventure pavilion was an embarrassment! It always amazed me how bad the food was at the American pavilion. It was such basic theme park food. Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and [watery] pulled pork sandwiches. None of these items stood out, and all were disappointing (especially the pulled pork!). There was no theming to speak of, in my opinion. It just felt like a big fast food restaurant.
There is so much great food in the United States; the abysmal food at Liberty Inn aggravated me for years. It made me sad that visitors from all over the world could come to Disney and think THIS represented America. But that’s all old news, thank goodness. The Liberty Inn closed in June 2019 to make way for a new quick service restaurant. Finally, we have our new restaurant: The Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue hosted by Coca-Cola.
The Regal Eagle Smokehouse
At long last, the American Adventure pavilion has an American themed restaurant to be proud of. I think the choice to include the Muppets in the theming for this restaurant is genius. It’s subtle, but it iso great to see the Muppets in Epcot! Sam the Eagle is atop the logo and featured on the menu. We see other Muppet characters in sketches around the restaurant. The Muppet presence isn’t super overt, and of course, as a big Muppets fan, I wish there were more of it. However, these days ANY sign of the Muppets at Walt Disney World is a good thing, as far as I’m concerned.
The theming throughout the interior space is sprinkled with classic Americana. It’s got a little bit of a retro feel. The walls feature lots of brick and tile. There is red, white and blue bunting on the ceiling, and even the condiment station features Americana decor. There’s a tin ceiling, and there are lots of copper pots and old timey accessories throughout. The tables are flanked by backless benches, and the indoor seating area feels very large, bright and open. The overall look is really sharp.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse (Photo: Disney Parks)
Outdoors, the large seating area is all classic picnic tables with umbrellas to help protect guests from the Florida sun. There’s also a large classic smoker on display in the outdoor seating area. I’m not sure if this is just for show, or if we may see it in use during busy periods.
Barbecue Flavors From Across the United States
I think the Regal Eagle Smokehouse’s approach to “American” by using barbecue flavors found in different parts of the country is really smart. Since summer cook-offs are such a big part of festivals throughout the country, I thought choosing to theme the restaurant as “Sam’s Centennial Cook-Off” was also a terrific idea!
Source, Disney Parks
Entrees are themed to Texas, South Carolina, Missouri, Tennessee and North Carolina. Meats are smoked for 14 hours, and the quality of the meats and sides are very high, especially for a theme park quick service restaurant.
Menu Options
There are a lot of options on this quick service menu! There are a variety of sandwiches and platters. All sandwiches and platters include a side.
Great food can be found at the new Regal Eagle Smokehouse at the American Adventure Pavilion at EPCOT (Photo: Disney Parks)
The American Platter is $18.99, and I suspect it will be VERY popular, especially for first time visitors. It includes three choices from the meat options, one side of your choice and a piece of garlic toast. The meat options include Sliced Texas Beef Brisket, Kansas City Smoked Half Chicken, Memphis Dry-Rub Port Ribs, North Carolina Chopped Smoked Port Butt, and South Carolina Smoked Sausage. The brisket and smoked sausage are available as sandwiches, and the other three meat options are available as single meat platters. There is also a BBQ Burger, which is a burger topped with pulled BBQ pork and an onion ring. A Power Greens Salad is on the menu, and includes chilled pulled chicken and fresh citrus. For those that prefer plant based sandwiches, there is a BBQ Jackfruit Burger. This is a plant based burger topped with BBQ Jackfruit.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse, The American Adventure Pavilion at EPCOT (Photo: Disney Parks)
Side options include House Made Pickles, French Fries, Beer-Battered Onion Rings, Creamy Coleslaw, Macaroni and Cheese, Garlic Toast, and Baked Beans with Burnt Ends.
For dessert, you can choose from the Fresh Watermelon Cup (But WHY? Just kidding!), the S’mores Brownie and Banana Pudding. The banana pudding even has vanilla wafer cookies in it. So classic!
The kids menu features a cheeseburger, chicken salad, BBQ chicken leg and BBQ rib platter as options. Most of these come with one or two sides, and a choice of Chocolate Milk, Apple Juice or small fountain beverage.
Beverages
Inside you’ll find the traditional quick service restaurant Coca-Cola fountain beverage station, featuring the same Coca-Cola beverage options you find all over the parks. But at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse, you’ll also find Iced Unsweetened Tea, Sweet Tea and a few varieties of flavored iced teas that I think are a nice inclusion.
The menu inside also features a variety of American draft beers and ciders, wine and some specialty cocktails. There are more beverage options at the outdoor bar as well. (Read on for more about the outdoor bar!).
Meat Lovers Paradise
While there is a plant based option on the menu, the Regal Eagle Smokehouse is primarily for those of us that eat meat. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you will be happier at one of the other pavilions around World Showcase. If, however, you are a meat lover, you will most likely find at least one item on this menu that you’ll love.
The other thing that makes me happy is that the entrees are not drenched in sauces. Regal Eagle Smokehouse offers a variety of sauces on the side at the condiment bar, and you can add as much or as little sauce to your meats as you want to. I think this will appeal to a wide range of customers.
Sauces
The condiment bar features a variety of bbq sauces for you to try with your entree. There are four sauces, plus ketchup on the condiment bar. Sauce options include:
There are options available for those with gluten or wheat allergies, egg allergies, milk allergies, peanut or tree nut allergies, and soy allergies. To review the complete menu, along with the allergy related options, please visit here.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Outdoor Bar
One of the highlights of the new outdoor area at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse is the new outdoor bar. Many of the beverages offered at the outdoor bar can also be found inside the restaurant; however, I suspect the outdoor bar will satisfy a lot of patrons that aren’t interested in a meal.
The menu features a variety of American draft beers and ciders. There is also a selection of California wines on the menu, as well as a few “specialty cocktails”. Specialty cocktails include a Frozen Mint Julep, a Tennessee Lemonade (featuring Jack Daniels), a Texas Mule, a Frozen Strawberry Daquiri and a Moonshine Sour. There are two non alcoholic options on the outdoor bar menu as well: Berry Sparkler and Frozen Iced Tea Lemonade. Prices range from $4.50 (non alcoholic specialty beverages) to $14.00 (specialty cocktails). While anyone who knows me well knows I’m am very partial to the Grand Marnier slushie available at the Champagne Kiosk in the France pavilion, I am eager to try the Tennessee Lemonade at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse!
At Last, Good American Food at the American Adventure Pavilion
I am happy to report that at long last, we have good food available at the American Adventure pavilion at EPCOT. Of course, if you prefer table service, or eat good old American barbecue fairly frequently, the Regal Eagle Smokehouse might not be high on your list. Also, I suspect it won’t be a preferred stop for vegans or vegetarians.
However, if you want a good quality quick service option, you can’t go wrong with the Regal Eagle Smokehouse. The food is flavorful and the environment is fun and well themed. And hey, there are some Muppets touches. Good pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs and old fashioned banana pudding? Count me in!
Sam the Eagle, The Muppets (Photo: Disney Parks)
What do you think? Are you going to check out the Regal Eagle Smokehouse? Please comment below. If you’ve already had a chance to try it, please share your thoughts!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. There are lots of updates coming to EPCOT this year and next. Have you heard about EPCOT’s space themed restaurant coming later this year? Check out this post to learn more.
Disney’s EPCOT theme park is well known for lots of good and even great dining options—but the fast majority of those can be found in Epcot’s World Showcase. Coming soon to Epcot’s Future World is a space themed restaurant we’re hoping will knock our socks off! Epcot’s new space themed restaurant is called Space 220, and it’s expected to open sometime this spring.
Announced last year, Space 220 was originally projected to open during the fourth quarter 2019. That was fairly aggressive, and proved to be a deadline the new restaurant couldn’t meet. Later, February 2020 appeared to be the planned opening target, but more recently I’m seeing projections of late February/early March. I suspect we may see soft openings sometime in March, with the official opening happening in April. That’s not from the powers that be, that’s just my supposition, based on what I’ve been seeing and hearing as the project progresses.
I’m excited about the theming and story of this new restaurant. The story is that you are traveling to the Centurian Space Station for your meal. The Centurian Space Station is 220 miles above the Earth’s surface (that’s where the Space 220 comes from). While you dine, you’ll have stunning day and night views of Earth below and the Space that surrounds the Space Station. Doesn’t that sound like fun? Guests will enter a special space elevator that will quickly take them to the Space Station, with spectacular views along the way.
Location
Space 220 is located backstage, behind Mission Space. The entrance for Space 220 will be part of the Mission Space building. Have you ever been to Coral Reef at the Living Seas Pavilion? Coral Reef is part of the Living Seas Pavilion, but it has its own separate entrance around to the side. I believe Space 220 is using a similar configuration.
Epcot’s Mission Space. (Photo Disney Parks)
It is my understanding that Space 220 is set in the Mission Space universe—so we are a little bit in the future but not TOO far. The Centurian Space Station is a resource for the missions that happen at Mission Space. We may see some Mission Space tie-ins inside Space 220, but that has not been confirmed.
Food
We don’t have a menu yet for this new space themed restaurant in Epcot’s Future World, however, I feel confident that we will NOT be served Tang and freeze dried Ice Cream. Space 220 is being operated by the Patina Group, a company behind many of the most successful restaurants at Disney Springs and across the country. The Patina Group already operates several of the better restaurants at Epcot, including Via Napoli and Tutti Italia. They are also responsible for Morimoto Asia, Maria and Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, Pizza Ponte and The Edison at Disney Springs. I especially love Morimoto Asia, which is very elegant and lovely. The food is really good too!
Morimoto Asia (Photo Disney Parks)
The Patina Group has more than 60 restaurants across the country, including Tortilla Joe, Napolini Pizzaria, Catal Restaurant and UVA Bar and Restaurant at Downtown Disney in California.
We haven’t been given much information yet about the food. All we know is “American Modern”. I’m not exactly sure what that will mean. Hopefully, now that we are getting closer to an actual opening, menus will be released soon.
Concept Art
We don’t have any official interior pictures from Disney yet for this new restaurant. I suspect we will get pictures when Disney is ready to give us an opening date and makes Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) available for Space 220.
We do have some concept art for this new addition to Future World, however.
Space 220 Concept Art. (Art by Disney Parks)
Based on the concept art, it looks like we can expect tiered seating, so everyone will have a view from their table of the giant windows looking out into Space and down at Earth.
Since the concept is that we are dining on the Centurian Space Station, I think we can expect the views out the windows to change as we move through Space, 220 miles above the Earth.
Space 220 Concept Art, Disney Parks
Advance Dining Reservations
As I mentioned above, we do not yet a have an official opening date for Epcot’s new space themed restaurant, Space 220. Disney has also not yet made Advance Dining Reservations available for the new restaurant. I think we can expect ADRs to be available shortly before the new restaurant opens, and the standard 180 day window to apply thereafter.
I’m sure this will be a very popular reservation, at least initially. Anytime there is anything new, we all clamor to check it out as soon as we can. Ironic, given how loud we yell whenever Disney changes anything, or god forbid, eliminates an attraction. Yes I’m still bitter that Horizons is gone. 😉
Once initial reviews are out about the food and the experience, we may see demand level off. However, if the experience is good (which I’m assuming it will be!) and the food is decent, I suspect Space 220 will join the list of “must get” ADRs for Disney trip planners.
Stay Tuned for Opening Date Announcement
As soon as Disney announces an opening date or makes Advance Dining Reservations available for Space 220, I will send out an alert and update the Blog. If you want to make sure you don’t miss the announcement, please click here to join our email newsletter mailing list. We send out email newsletters weekly. Occasionally, you will get an email alert from us when there’s big news. In my opinion, Space 220’s opening date and ADR availability is BIG news.
I’ll keep you posted as I learn more.
Update: Rumor Mill is reporting March 30 as a potential opening day for Epcot’s new space themed restaurant, Space 220.
I don’t have anything confirmed yet, but I am hearing a lot of rumors about March 30 from various sources. I will let you know once we have a confirmation from Disney.
Are you excited to check out Space 220? Do you agree that Future World needed a new restaurant? Please like this post and comment below.
Happy Tuesday, Everyone! Disney has made an exciting announcement today–FREE DINING IS BACK!! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but Disney has released another free dining promotion for 2019. It is fairly unusual for Disney to release this many free dining promotions in one calendar year. I suspect Disney is not seeing the reservations for Fall and Winter this year they’d expected.
If you’ve been thinking about planning a trip to Disney this fall or winter for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party, or to enjoy the winter holiday magic at Walt Disney World, NOW IS THE TIME TO BOOK.
The Details
Guests booking a five night/six day Walt Disney Travel Company package at a Disney resort, along with a Park Hopper park ticket are eligible to add free dining to their package.
Package must be booked BY SEPTEMBER 29, 2019.
This offer applies to packages for guests arriving during the following windows:
September 1 through September 18, 2019
November 17 – November 27, 2019
December 8 – December 23, 2019
Surprisingly, if you look at the dates above, you can see that you would be able to book a trip that includes Thanksgiving (as long as you arrive by November 28) or Christmas (as long as you arrive by December 23). That’s CRAZY unusual for a free dining promotion!
Magic Kingdom Train Station (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Guest who book stays in Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts or Disney Deluxe Resorts will be eligible for the Free Disney Dining Plan. Guests booking visits in Disney Moderate Resorts or Disney Value Resorts will be eligible for the Free Quick Service Dining Plan. Note: Not ALL resorts are included in this promotion and availability for this promotion IS LIMITED.
Resorts Included In Free Dining Promotion
Old Key West Resort (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Eligible Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Riviera Resort (after it opens, December 16, 2019)
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Eligible Disney Deluxe Resorts
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Eligible Disney Moderate Resorts
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Eligible Disney Value Resorts
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (Family Suites Only)
Disney’s All Star Music Resort (September Dates Excluded)
Disney’s All Star Sports Resort (September Dates Excluded)
Disney’s Pop Century Resort (September Dates Excluded)
The Fine Print
The number of rooms available for this promotion is LIMITED.
Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
Minimum 4 night length of stay; minimum four day theme park tickets with Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus option.
Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion
The following room types are excluded: Three bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Polynesian Villas and Bungalows, Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Table service restaurants may have limited or no availability at the time of package purchase. Meal reservation availability is not guaranteed with this promotion.
Children ages 3 – 9 must choose from the children’s menu, if there is a children’s menu available at the chosen restaurant.
Gratuities are not included.
Character Meals ARE included in the Disney Dining Plan! (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Guests staying in Value or Moderate Resorts will be eligible for the Quick Service Dining Plan. Guests Staying in Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resorts will be eligible for the Disney Dining Plan. Guests wishing to upgrade from the Quick Service Dining Plan to the Disney Dining Plan may do so by paying the difference between the two plans for each guest on the reservation.
Don’t Care About Free Dining? Here’s ANOTHER Great Offer from Disney
Disney’s Riviera Resort (Artist Rendering:Disney)
Disney also released an up to 20% off promotion for rooms at select Disney Resorts. Reservations must be booked by September 29, 2019. Most nights between September 1 and September 28 are included. Most Sunday through Thursday nights between September 29 and November 7 are included.
The up to 20% off on rooms at select Disney Resorts may also be booked by December 24, 2019 for stays most nights, November 10-December 24.
20% Discount Tier
20% discount is available for rooms at select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts and select Disney Deluxe Resorts, most nights September 1 – September 28, most nights November 10 – December 24. This discount is also available for most Sunday through Thursday nights, September 29 – November 7. (Note Stays beginning September 1 – November 7 MUST be booked by September 29, 2019. Stays beginning November 10 – December 24 MUST be booked by December 24, 2019.)
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort (for stays beginning Dec. 16 or later)
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
15% Discount Tier
15% discount is available for rooms at select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, select Disney Deluxe Resorts and select Disney Moderate Resorts. Discount available most nights September 1 – September 28 and November 10 – December 24. This discount is also available for most Sunday through Thursday nights, September 29 – November 7. (Note Stays beginning September 1 – November 7 MUST be booked by September 29, 2019. Stays beginning November 10 – December 24 MUST be booked by December 24, 2019.)
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
10% Discount Tier
10% discount is available for rooms at select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, select Disney Deluxe Resorts, select Disney Moderate Resorts and select Value Resorts. Discount available most nights September 1 – September 28 and November 10 – December 24. This discount is also available for most Sunday through Thursday nights, September 29 – November 7. (Note Stays beginning September 1 – November 7 MUST be booked by September 29, 2019. Stays beginning November 10 – December 24 MUST be booked by December 24, 2019.)
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – Studios Only
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites Only
Disney’s All Star Movies Resort (November 10 – December 24 only)
Disney’s All Star Music Resort (November 10 – December 24 only)
Disney’s All Star Sports Resort (November 10 – December 24 only)
Disney’s Pop Century Resort(November 10 – December 24 only)
The Fine Print for this Room Only Discount
The number of rooms available for this promotion is limited.
Additional per adult charges may apply if there are more than two adults per room.
This offer can’t be combined with any other discount or promotion.
Theme park admission is NOT included.
The following room types are excluded: Three bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Polynesian Villas and Bungalows.
Length of stay requirements may apply.
Florida Resident?
Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog
Florida residents can save up to 25% at select Disney resorts from September 1 to December 24 when they book by December 24, 2019. Note: the number of rooms available for this offer is limited. Proof of Florida residency will be required at check in.
25% Discount Tier
25% discount is available for rooms at select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts and select Disney Deluxe Resorts, mostly Sunday through Thursday nights; dropping to 10% for Fridays and Saturdays.
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort (for stays beginning Dec. 16 or later)
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
20% Discount Tier
20% discount is available for rooms at select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts and select Disney Deluxe Resorts, mostly Sunday through Thursday nights; dropping to 10% for Fridays and Saturdays.
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Moderate Resorts are participating too. Moderate Resorts listed below are offering a 20% discount for Florida residents for most nights, September 1 – October 3 and November 10 through December 24. Most Sunday through Thursday nights, October 6 – November 7 are also included.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter (15% Discount)
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside (15% Discount)
15% Discount Tier
15% discount is available for rooms at select Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts and select Disney Deluxe Resorts, mostly Sunday through Thursday nights; dropping to 10% for Fridays and Saturdays.
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – Studios Only
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
The Value Resorts listed below are offering a 15% discount for Florida residents for most nights, September 1 – October 3 and November 10 through December 24. Most Sunday through Thursday nights, October 6 – November 7 are also included.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s All Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All Star Music Resort
Disney’s All Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
The Fine Print for Florida Residents
Proof of Florida residency is required at check in.
This offer can’t be combined with any other promotion or discount.
This offer does not include theme park admission.
Additional per adult charges may apply if more than two adults are staying in the room.
The following room types are excluded: Three bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Polynesian Villas and Bungalows.
Length of stay requirements may apply.
Free Dining, Room Only and Florida Residents, Oh MY!!!
So, in a nutshell, there are a lot of discount offers available for you if you are considering taking a trip to Disney World this Fall or Winter. There is a LOT to think about, and it can be overwhelming to figure out which discount (or which meal plan, for that matter) is best for you and your family.
That’s where working with a Disney Travel Agent (like me!) can help. It doesn’t cost YOU anything, and I can take care of all the headaches you don’t have time or desire to take on. I can help determine which package is best for you, and I can help with your trip planning as well! I can even help with meal reservations and Fast Pass bookings. Working with me will save you time, headaches, aggravation AND money.
Reach out today, brooke@disneycastledreaming.com. I’d love to help you plan your next Disney dream vacation.
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. – If you’d like to read more on the difference between the dining plans, and what you should consider when deciding if Free Dining is right for you, please check out the following posts:
Great news! Disney has announced that the new Skyliner Transportation system will officially open for Disney World guests on September 29! Testing has been going on for several months now, and I don’t know about you, but I have been DYING for the official announcement of WHEN the Skyliner gondolas would be ready for passengers. And finally, we have our answer! The Skyliner gondolas will be ready for YOU to ride on September 29, 2019. Whooooooo Hoooooo!
Disney released this happy video along with the announcement:
Surprised?
I’m a teensy surprised that the Gondolas won’t be “LIVE” before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Hollywood Studios on August 29. I had thought Disney would try and open the Skyliner Transporation System before that deadline to provide additional transportation options for guests, PLUS provide another “attraction” to absorb guests. My thought was Skyliner Gondolas could help with crowd management. However, it makes sense that it opens a month later. I suspect Disney has their hands full already with making sure they are ready for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge when it opens.
Photo: Disney Parks
How gorgeous does that look? I mean, seriously! I am SUPER excited to ride one of these Gondolas through the whole route. Remember: The Skyliner Transportation System will visit four resorts, plus Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Here are the four resorts:
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s NEW Riviera Resort (opens in December)
Just the Facts, Ma’m.
TECHNICALLY, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort are sharing one Skyliner Station. The Station is located on the lake between the two resorts and is a short walk from either resort. So, one stop on the Skyliner Transportation System, but TWO resorts served. More bang for the buck, I guess. But it sounds like the line goes further than it does when I say it goes to four resorts and two theme parks, so I wanted to clarify.
Skyliner Station Pop Century/Art of Animation Photo Credit: Amy Micari
There are more than 300 gondolas on the Skyliner Transportation line. Each gondola (also being called “cabins”) can seat up to ten guests. All gondolas are wheelchair accessible, according to Disney.
I’ve done several articles about the Skyliner system previously. If you’d like to check those out, please go to any of the links below:
So, does knowing Skyliner Gondolas will officially open on September 29 have any impact on your vacation plans for this year? If you’ve been on the fence about a Fall 2019 visit to Disney World, does this push you over the edge? What about Holiday 2019 planning? Does the official opening of the Skyliner system make you MORE eager to visit Disney World for the Holidays this year?
There are still some great packages available for fall, and I’m expecting holiday 2019 packages to be released any day now. If you’re thinking about visiting Disney in 2019, NOW is the time to plan. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for more information or to get started!
This year marks the 24th year the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival dominates the fall season at Walt Disney World. The 2019 Epcot Food & Wine Festival will be the longest festival ever, at 87 days!
Long celebrated as a great way to try lots of different international cuisine, wines and beers, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival invites guests to explore the “international” aspect of World Showcase at Epcot.
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Photo: Disney Parks)
This year’s Festival begins August 29, 2019, and will run through November 23, 2019. The Festival is anchored by 30 Global Marketplaces throughout World Showcase. There are world flavors for everyone of all ages to discover. There are Global Marketplaces featuring food and beverages from all over the world. The choices are not limited to the nine countries already featured in World Showcase. Every year, there are returning favorites and new adventurous flavors to try.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series
Another highlight from the annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. Every night, from August 29 – November 19, a band will play at the America Gardens Theatre. Sundays – Thursdays, the shows are at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm and 8:00 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, showtimes are 6:30 pm, 7:45 pm and 9:00 pm. Epcot admission is required to attend any of the shows; however, the Eat to the Beat Concert Series itself is included with your park admission.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series. (Photo: Disney Parks)
As you might imagine, seating is limited, and guests often line up early to try and get seats. However, the music carries to the area immediately around the America Gardens Theatre, and it’s not unusual to see people standing around the area, enjoying the music. Sometimes, you’ll even see people dancing!
Not all the acts for this year’s Festival and been released yet, but a lot of them have. There are some new acts this year, along with a lot of returning favorites.
Here’s the current list and schedule (subject to change).
Plain White T’s
August 29 through 31
Sawyer Brown – NEW!
September 1 through 2
MercyMe
September 3 through 4
Grace Kelly – NEW!
September 5 through 6
Zach Williams – NEW!
September 7 through 8
Lauren Daigle – NEW!
September 9 through 10
Jimmie Allen – NEW!
September 11 through 12
TBD
September 13 through 15
The Allman Betts Band
September 16 through 17
Everclear
September 18 through 19
STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
September 20 through 22
Post Modern Jukebox
September 23 through 24
Blue October
September 25 through 26
Mark Wills
September 27 through 29
Sugar Ray
September 30 through October 2
TBD
October 3 through 9
Boyce Avenue – NEW!
October 10 through 11
Southern Avenue – NEW!
October 12 through 13
TBD
October 14 through 15
38 Special
October 16 through 17
Baha Men
October 18 through 20
Billy Ocean
October 21 through 22
Sheila E
October 23 through 25
High Valley
October 26 through 27
Hanson
October 28 through 30
Sheena Easton
October 31 through November 1
Kris Allen – NEW!
November 2 through 3
Boyz II Men
November 4 through 6
The Hooters
November 7 through 8
Big Bad Voo Doo Daddy
November 9 through 11
TBD
November 12 through 18
DCapella – NEW!
November 1
Eat to the Beat Dining Package
If there is a particular band you love, and you REALLY want to make sure you get guaranteed seats for one of their shows, there are Eat to the Beat Dining Packages available. You can reserve Eat to the Beat Dining Packages for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at a variety of Epcot restaurants. For a small premium, your meal will include guaranteed seating for a particular show on the day of meal. Eat to the Beat Dining Packages are available to book now!
Note: If you choose NOT to book an Eat to the Beat Dining Package, it does NOT mean you won’t get a seat. You just won’t have a guaranteed seat. You’ll have to wait in line with all the other non-dining package guests, and hope that you get to the front of the line before all the seats are full. This is a lot easier for some acts than others. If one show is super crowded, try the next show. It may be less crowded. Generally, the later shows are more popular than the early show.
Future World Gets in on the Action
Not to be left out of the global extravaganza that is the 2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Future World participates with a “Disney du Jour Dance Party”. This weekend Dance Party has been so popular in years past, Disney has expanded it to seven days a week for this year’s Festival. Sundays through Thursdays, a Disney DJ will manage the Dance Party, and on the weekends, stars from Radio Disney with add a little extra excitement with live performances. So far, only the opening weekend guest has been announced; Meg Donnelly from the Disney Channel original movie Zombies.
Food & Wine Festival Special Events
Throughout the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, there are a variety of culinary demonstrations and educational seminars. Celebrity chefs and well known personalities from the world of international cuisine will host culinary demonstrations throughout the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Many of these demonstrations and talks will be included with your park admission. In addition, there are a variety of extra special events that are offered; however these extra special events require reservations and cost extra.
Beverage Seminars
Reservations are required for this 45 minute seminar. It’s held at the World ShowPlace Events Pavilion, located between United Kingdom and Canada. Epcot admission is required, and the additional cost per person for this event is $19 per person, plus tax.
The Beverage Seminars are held some Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays during the Festival at 4:30 pm. These Seminars are hosted by sommeliers, cicerones and other beverage experts. They will share their knowledge and offer samples for you to taste. Depending on the seminary, you might learn about state-of-the-art winemaking, brewing or distilling techniques.
Note: Alcohol will be served to guests 21 and older. All events are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
Cheese Seminars
Reservations are required for these 90 minute seminars, held on select Saturdays throughout the Festival. Seminars are held at the World ShowPlace Events Pavilion from 9:45 am – 11:15 am. Epcot admission is required; the additional cost per person for each of these events is $95, plus tax (gratuity included).
These seminars are hosted by distinguished cheese experts. The seminars are designed to educate guests about the different textures, aromas, and flavors of popular cheeses from all over the world. Guests will have the opportunity to sample artisanal cheese selections paired with complementary wines or craft beers.
Topics include:
New World Cheeses and Old World Wines (September 14, 2019)
Mediterranean Cheeses and Wines (September 28, 2019)
Great British Cheeses and Ales (October 5, 2019)
Italian Cheeses and Wines (October 12, 2019)
French Cheeses and Wines (October 19, 2019)
The Great Cheeses and Wines of the Western United States (October 26, 2019)
Season’s Best Cheeses and Wines (November 9, 2019)
Note: Alcohol is served exclusively to guests aged 21 or older. All events are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
Party for the Senses
For many food and wine connoisseurs, one of the highlights of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is the Party for the Senses. The Party for the Senses is a special ticketed evening event featuring tasting stations, live entertainment, elegant decor and acclaimed chefs and personalities. More than 20 renown chefs are featured. International musical artists Femmes of Rock are returning this year, following their popular debut at this event in 2018. Reservations are required for this special evening event, held on select Saturday nights during the Festival. Book your reservations now.
Epcot admission is required, in addition to the event ticket.
The event is held on select Saturdays at the World ShowPlace Events Pavilion. The World ShowPlace Events Pavilion is located between the United Kingdom and Canada in World Showcase.
There are two seating options, with pricing between $229 and $359 per guest plus tax, gratuity included, based on which seating option you choose.
Category #1: Wine View Lounge
Category #1 is the VIP option, and priced at $359 per guest plus tax, gratuity included. Your Wine View Lounge admission provides early access to the event at 6:30 pm.
Your VIP event ticket includes a private, premium reserved table. When you arrive at your table, you will find an amuse-bouche and a welcome beverage. Your early entrance offers a special briefing from the chefs and a special phot opportunity. The Wine View Lounge has exclusive premium bar service and artisanal cheeses available only for the VIP guests with Category #1 event tickets. Your ticket will also include a special premium wine glass and an additional gift as your souvenirs of the elegant evening.
Also included in this VIP option is complimentary Minnie Van service to transport ticketed guests from their resort hotel to the event and return service at the end of the event. Alternatively, if you are already in Epcot on the day of your event, complimentary transportation will be provided from the Main Entrance to the event.
Category #2: Reserved Seating
Category #2 includes reserved seating on the main floor of the event. These tickets are priced at $229 per person, plus tax, gratuity included. Your ticket will include a specialty welcome beverage as well as an event exclusive wine glass. Your ticket will allow you access to the event from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
Note: Alcohol is only served to ticketed guests aged 21 or older. Events and entertainment are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
For runDisney fans, an annual highlight of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is the Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend. This year’s Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend is October 31 through November 3, 2019.
The Half Marathon and 10K races both go through the Walt Disney World Resort, and feature Disney characters and Disney style entertainment throughout each race. A very popular post-race party at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival concludes the race weekend.
RunDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon. (Photo: runDisney)
The runDisney race fun begins with the Disney Fall Feast 5K on November 1, 2019. The Disney Wine & Dine 10K is on November 2, 2019, followed by the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon on November 3, 2019. Not to be outdone by other runDisney race weekends, the Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend includes a special Wine & Dine Two Course Challenge. The Two Course Challenge combines the 10K on Saturday with the Half Marathon on Sunday. Successful Two Course Challenge finishers earn a special Disney Two Course Challenge medal, plus both Half Marathon and 10K medals. Registration is required for the Disney Two Course Challenge to be eligible for this special medal.
Wine & Dine Half Marathon (Photo: runDisney/Disney Parks)
SOLD OUT!
ALL races for the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend are already sold out, including the Disney Two Course Challenge. It is still possible to register however through participating charities, or through the purchase of special Walt Disney World Vacation packages. Contact your travel agent (I’d be happy to help!) to learn more.
To learn more about these or any other runDisney events, visit runDisney.
Epcot’s Most Popular Event
Epcot is wonderful to visit at any time of year, but it has become especially well known for its Festivals. The Epcot International Festival of the Arts dominates the beginning of each year at Epcot, running mid-January through late February.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
My personal favorite, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, premiers each year in early March and runs through the first few days of June.
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Photo: Disney Parks)
Then comes the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, the topic of this article, followed by the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. I promise to do an article about the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays soon.
It is the fall Epcot International Food & Wine Festival that is the most popular Epcot festival, however. The ever popular “drink around the world” informal drinking challenge that many adult guests love to complete takes on a whole other level when attempted during the Food & Wine Festival.
Have you ever visited the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival? Are you planning to visit this year? Please like this post and comment below. I’d love to hear your plans for this year’s Festival.
We knew it was coming. Disney has announced the final show date for Epcot’s long running nighttime entertainment spectacular, IllumiNations Reflections of Earth. Knowing this announcement was coming didn’t make hearing the actual date of the final show any easier.
The final show of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth will be September 30, 2019.
IllumiNations Reflections of Earth to End September 30, 2019
An Important Part of Epcot History
IllumiNations Reflections of Earth premiered in October 1999 as part of the Walt Disney World Millennium Celebration. Airing nightly for almost 20 years, IllumiNations has been an integral component of hundreds of thousands of family vacations. (And probably MILLIONS of photographs–in my collection alone!)
IllumiNations starts every night at 9 pm, and takes place on the World Showcase Lagoon. One of the great things about the show is that there are great viewing spots for the show all the way around the Lagoon. The show is filled with fireworks, lasers, pyrotechnics, beautiful music, screen projections, and dancing water. IllumiNations is a 14 minute show that never fails to move me, no matter how many times I have seen it.
Frank and I love IllumiNations so much, we even included it as part of our wedding day for our guests! At the end of our wedding day, we hosted a private dessert party in the United Kingdom pavilion for our guests because we wanted to make sure everyone had an opportunity to see this wonderful show.
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It was a wonderful way to end our wedding day, but IllumiNations has been a beautiful way to end countless Epcot days over the years. Many families watch from the same spot every time, while others try to watch from different countries each time. I’ve found the show looks different from the Fast Pass viewing area than it does from the UK or Germany, for example, at least to me. Even the way the torches light in front of each country’s pavilion, and each pavilion lights up near the end of the show touches my heart. It just feels like the whole world coming together in that moment.
I’m really going to miss you, IllumiNations Reflections of Earth!
Inside Disney Parks “Live” Stream of IllumiNations
Inside Disney Parks live streamed last night’s showing of IllumiNations Reflections of Earth. While there is other “stuff” included in the stream, the entire show is included here in all it’s high definition video glory. It’s not quite as good as being there, of course, but if you won’t get a chance to get down to Epcot to see it one last time before it closes, this might help.
IllumiNations starts at about 6:40.
What’s Next?
On October 1, 2019, Epcot’s new show will debut. It’s called Epcot Forever, and promises to include music from favorite Epcot attractions from the entire history of Epcot. Imagineers are promising the new show will include many of the elements we have loved from Illuminations–fireworks, lasers, dancing water, pyrotechnics–and more, new technologies that we haven’t seen before. They’ve promised dancing kites in the sky, and tell us the new show is going to be a kind of “fusion” of all the things we’ve loved in the past and a celebration of the new things that are coming to Epcot in the future.
I guess we will have to wait and see. I’m sure the new show will be spectacular.
Twenty years has been a good long run for IllumiNations Reflections of Earth, but I’m still sad to see it go. I know, I know. Change is GOOD. Right? Really, I know. Change is good. I’ll just keep telling myself that….
Are You Ready for Epcot Forever?
So are you ready for the new show? Or are you sad the old show is leaving? Did you know this was coming, or did this announcement of an IllumiNations Reflections of Earth final show date catch you off guard?
What are your favorite memories from IllumiNations Reflections of Earth? Any magic moments that you’ll never forget?
If you are a fan of Epcot nighttime entertainment, please click “Like” below and share if you are excited about the new show.
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. If you’d like to plan a visit to Disney this summer to catch Illuminations Reflections of Earth, I would love to help plan your trip. Disney has select Resort Hotels at 25%, and other offers are available. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today!
This week, I have EPCOT News! There are lots of changes coming to Epcot over the next three years. Some things you may have already heard about, some things you may have heard rumored before, and some things are brand new updates. Read on for all the latest Epcot News updates!
Former Wonders of Life Pavilion FINALLY Gets a New Lease on Life
Disney has announced that the domed pavilion that was once the Wonders of Life Pavilion, and that has served as the Festival Pavilion a few times for various festivals, is finally getting re-purposed. This new plan sounds tailor made for Epcot’s original theming and vision. Remember the original name? EPCOT: Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.
The as-yet untitled pavilion will be a “play” pavilion. It will house an innovative city that will feature interactive experiences and hands on activities. Disney promises the new space will be “devoted to playful fun” and will include favorite Disney characters and lots of entertainment.
Epcot: New Unnamed “Play” Pavilion – Artist’s Rendering
I’m fascinated by the city under the dome idea. It sounds like Imagineering is trying to capture at least a little of the spirit of Walt Disney’s original vision for a “prototype community”. It should be fun to see what they come up with! Disney also promises the newly redesigned pavilion will open in time for the 50th Anniversary celebration of Walt Disney World Resort in 2021.
Entering Epcot: Revamped & Redesigned
This bit of Epcot News has been a long time coming. Epcot’s entrance area, between the gates and Spaceship Earth is going to be revamped and redesigned. Basically, they’re moving the giant monolithic creepy “Leave a Legacy” stones from this area to an area outside the main entrance. They will be adding a fountain, more green space and pathways. But the main idea? To make the main gateway to the park look a little less like a graveyard.
I’m sure “graveyard” was not the intent when the original designers came up with the Leave a Legacy* stone idea. However, the end result (as professed by thousands of Epcot guests over the years) is, at best, cold and industrial, and, at worst, creepy and gravestone-like. Neither image is the first impression Disney wanted to leave with their guests as they enter the park, so changes are being made. Here’s an artist’s drawing of the new entrance way:
Artist’s Rendering of Planned Redesigned Main Entrance for EPCOT
*For those of you that have pictures on the giant Leave a Legacy stones, please do not interpret this change, or my celebration of it, as a negative commentary on your pictures or your investment. I think it’s a lovely idea, and I think having a piece of your family forever a part of Disney history is a beautiful thing. I desperately want a brick on the Magic Kingdom walkway, so I totally understand! I’m just not a fan of this particular presentation. I don’t think the way they set it up is visually as attractive as it could be. I also think because they didn’t sell as many as they expected and there are so many empty spaces, it just feels a bit cold. This is my opinion, your mileage may vary.
For those of you that aren’t familiar with the Leave a Legacy stones, here are a couple of pictures. (Both Photos Courtesy of Disney):
Epcot Leave a LegacyEpcot Leave a Legacy
The giant stones will still be a part of the Epcot landscape. The stones just won’t be located inside the main entrance as the first thing visitors see. So many guests just don’t understand what they are, or why they are there. I think moving them to a garden in a different part of Epcot, or creating a special area for them outside of the entrance with a plaque that explains what they are a little better would do them more justice.
Epcot News Update: Guardians of the Galaxy Themed Roller Coaster in Future World
At this point, the Guardians of the Galaxy themed roller coaster coming to Future World in 2021 is old news for many. Already under construction for more than a year, the new roller coaster will be one of the world’s longest enclosed roller coasters when it’s complete. According to Disney, this attraction will also be ready in time for the 50th Anniversary celebration of Walt Disney World Resort. But since not everyone keeps up with Disney news, I thought I would give you all an update on this “coming soon” attraction. (Soon being relative in the land of Disney construction projects!)
What we know so far:
The queue for the attraction will be in the former Universe of Energy building. Ellen and the Dinosaurs have been moved into storage somewhere backstage. Fans of the Science-themed attraction have hopes that someday, we may see them pop up in another attraction somewhere. You never know! (However, it’s more likely they will pop up in John Stamos’ living room, or that of another Disneyphile!)
The attraction will be completed sometime in 2021.
The roller-coaster will be one of the longest enclosed roller coasters in the world when it’s finished.
The show building that will house the new coaster will be so big, we are told that FOUR Spaceship Earths could fit inside it! (Now THAT’s a BIG Building!).
This is not going to be a “typical roller coaster. Imagineers have promised that there is a heavy storytelling element to this attraction.
The coaster will feature an innovative ride system, with unique ride vehicles that will be capable of moving in different ways and directions to focus the riders’ attention to the story happening around them.
Guardian’s of the Galaxy Roller Coaster Proposed Ride Vehicle – Artist’s Rendering
Epcot: France Gets TWO New Attractions
Announced in 2017, two new attractions coming to France are finally starting to look like they are within reach.
First: Coming “soon” to the same theatre where the long running film Impressions de France plays multiple times each day will be a new “sing a long” version of Beauty and the Beast. This new film is not replacing Impressions de France; it is playing in the same theatre, but the two films will play at different times. Most likely to draw new audiences to France, and to perhaps encourage them to then stay and watch Impressions de France, I think this is a great way to capitalize on the popularity of Beauty and the Beast, while still preserving the integrity of the France pavilion.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
A new dark ride, themed to the popular Pixar film, Ratatouille, is set to open in Epcot’s France pavilion in Spring 2020. This ride, rumored to be an English language version of the very popular L’Aventure Totalement Toquée de Rémy at Disneyland Paris, is a trackless adventure where the riders are shrunk down to the size of Remy and his Rat friends, and embark on a crazy chase through the kitchen.
Image provided by Disney/Pixar. Remy/Ratatouille
We don’t have much concrete information on this attraction yet. BUT, I’ve heard the original is a favorite at Disneyland Paris. Therefore, I’ve decided to be optimistic that we will be happy with this new addition. As we’ve discussed, Disney crowds get larger every year, so the more attractions we have that can absorb crowds, the better, right?
I think that adding a few dark rides in World Showcase is a good direction for Epcot to go. As long as they (Disney) choose rides that stay at least loosely connected to the country’s theming. (And no, I don’t think Frozen is a good fit in Norway! Arendelle isn’t a REAL place!!! That attraction should be in Hollywood Studios! But I digress….).
Ratatouille is a fun Pixar movie set in Paris, and the city is definitely a character in the film. Putting this attraction in France at least makes SOME sense. (And yes, I recognize I’m reaching a bit…). The purpose of World Showcase is to educate and excite people about countries around the world they may never have visited. Rides were never necessarily part of that vision. Films, shops, shows, restaurants, streetmosphere players…of course. But actual rides? Not necessarily.
However, as Walt Disney World crowds swell, and repeat visitors increase year over year, I understand the need for change. I’m not always great with change, but I do accept the necessity. Adding themed attractions to World Showcase is a change that makes sense to me. Certainly Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure might make more sense at Hollywood Studios as it is a movie-themed attraction (LIKE FROZEN). However, it also makes sense in France, as this particular film takes place in France, and it definitely focuses on France and Paris in particular, during many moments of the movie.
More World Showcase Updates
China is getting its own Circle-Vision 360 degree cultural movie experience. I don’t have a date yet, but it’s coming. Canada’s Circle-Vision movie is getting updated, and we’ll soon be seeing the updated version when we visit Canada in World Showcase.
Japan is getting a new signature restaurant. Actually, this was announced early last year, but recently it appears that construction finally began. We don’t know much about it, other than it’s “inspired by the natural beauty of Japan”. Given that construction has begun, I’m hopeful we will see this open sometime this fall.
Odyssey Pavilion Re-purposed
Epcot’s Odyssey Pavilion (Photo/Disney Parks)
The Odyssey Pavilion is that odd building that has been mostly closed for the last 20 years or so. It lives on the World Showcase Lagoon between Mexico and Test Track. This Pavilion originally opened in 1982 and started its life as a restaurant. It is a REALLY big space, and I can’t even remember the last time it was actually opened for regular use.
It’s most often used for special events. Presentations, conference events, sometimes festival events, Odyssey has served many purposes over the years. It’s even been used as a backup venue for outdoor wedding receptions in the event of bad weather.
However, last year, it got a remodel and opened again over New Year’s to offer an additional quick service food station for crowd flow. It was also used during the International Festival of the Arts to host several events.
Disney tells us that later this year, the Odyssey, or at least a portion of it, will be reclassified as The Experience Center. The Experience Center will feature interactive exhibits of upcoming park projects. The goal is to to help park guests visualize (and get excited about!) all the different park transformation projects happening over the next few years, leading up to the 50th Anniversary.
Space Themed Restaurant Coming to Epcot…Eventually?
Announced early last year, the building is finally in place in Epcot for the space themed restaurant coming at some point in the future. Well, it is Future World, so I guess that’s par for the course.
Space Themed Restaurant Coming to Epcot (Photo: Disney Parks)
The restaurant is going to be located between Mission Space and Test Track. It looks like it will be pretty big, based on the size of the building. Of course, these show buildings can be misleading. It IS expected to have some special effects.
In my opinion, this will be a very welcome addition to Future World. Currently, the only table service restaurant in Future World is Coral Reef. For a long time, I’ve thought more table service options were needed. I believe that going space themed, and setting it in Future World makes sense. The location is perfect, especially with the Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster under construction in that same area.
The restaurant will be owned and operated by the Patina Group; they already operate a number of successful and popular restaurants at Disney Springs, Downtown Disney and Epcot. Patina restaurants include Via Napoli, Tutto Italia Ristorante, Morimoto Asia, Enzo’s Hideaway and many more–not to mention many restaurants in New York, New Jersey, California and JAPAN!!
Good-Bye Illuminations: Reflections of Earth
We’ve discussed before on this blog that Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, the spectacular long running nighttime show at Epcot is coming to a close later this year. While we haven’t been given an exact “end” date for Illuminations, expectations are that it will end sometime in the summer or early fall.
Imagineers are of course working on the replacement nighttime extravaganza. I’m sure this will be bigger and include more technology and special effects than ever before. Disney tells us that construction is already underway in the World Showcase Lagoon for the new show. The new show will include custom designed LED panels, pyrotechnics, “massive” floating set pieces, moving fountains, lasers, and an amazing soundtrack, no doubt. The new show will not make it’s debut until sometime next year, however.
Between the sun setting on Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, and the sun rising on the 2020 new nighttime extravaganza, there will be a limited time nighttime experience presented at Epcot, called Epcot Forever. I have a feeling this one is guaranteed to tear at your heartstrings if you are a longtime Epcot visitor. It promises to feature a soundtrack of favorite Epcot songs, and will include lighting, lasers, fireworks, music and special effects. I’m really hoping to make it down there to check this one out later this year. I suspect it is going to really be something special.
Epcot Forever Limited Nighttime Experience Concept Art, Artist Rendering (Source: Disney Parks)
Believe it or not, they still have MORE to come!!
As you can tell by the length of this post, there are a LOT of updates coming to Epcot over the next one to three years. What is even more mind boggling is that most of these are considered Phase 1 updates. Phase 1 updates will be in place by the 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Celebration. However, there are LOTS more updates planned for Phase 2, although much of that is still early planning stages. Everything is subject to change as the world around us changes. Suffice it to say that Disney is investing a LOT of money into Epcot, now and well into the future. I’m loving all these Epcot News updates, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.
One word of advice…if you love Spaceship Earth, you may want to try and ride it a lot over the next year or so. I suspect it’s going to come up on the refurbishment list fairly soon. Once it goes down, it will be down for YEARS. Two years at least, possibly more.
What Epcot News update are you MOST excited about? What are you LEAST excited about? Does anything have you worried? Please comment below, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Hello Everyone! Lots of Disney Parks News Updates to share with you today!! Some of these updates I’ve already shared in Instagram stories or Facebook lives on the DisneyCastleDreaming page, but I know a lot of you don’t check those places…and for those of you that did catch any of those stories, I had promised to post some of the pictures and videos I mentioned.
AND I’ve got a couple of additional updates to give you as well! We will start in California, and then move on to Florida today.
Disney Parks News Updates: Disneyland/California Adventure
The Disneyland After Dark: Heroes Assemble at Disney California Adventure
Disneyland After Dark: Heroes Assemble at California Adventure
As I have discussed before, I’m a fan of the Disney After Dark events. Yes, they are a separate ticketed event BUT Disney limits the number of tickets they sell, and usually lines are fairly short for attractions that are open, and there are some fun extras included.
Disneyland has announced a new Disneyland After Dark event. It’s called Heroes Assemble at California Adventure. Tickets are already on sale for Annual Passholders, and they go on sale on Thursday, February 21st for the general public. Tickets are $109; children under 2 do not need a ticket.
So far, only two dates have been announced, and based on the dates, it looks like this is a tie in with the release of the Avengers: Endgame movie coming out in May. This event is being held on April 30 or May 1. Event hours are 9 pm to 1 am. It’s not clear yet if your ticket will grant you access to California Adventure earlier than 9 pm on the night of the event, as is usually the case for Disney After Dark events in Florida.
For this event, Disney is encouraging you to come dressed as your favorite super hero; however, they are also reminding everyone to check the rules regarding costumes and accessories. To review the rules, click here for Disneyland Park Rules, and here to view the costume guidelines for special events.
Celebrating 80 years of comic art, Disneyland After Dark: Heroes Assemble at California Adventure promises to feature encounters with superheroes, “rockin’ dance party” and heroic show moments. There’s also a fun scavenger hunt planned where you and your friends will have to hunt to find artifacts to help save mankind!
You can also expect lots of great photo opportunities, special event only merchandise and themed food and beverage offerings. Your ticket will entitle you to free downloads of all Photopass pictures taken of you that evening, so make sure to take LOTS!
The Soundsational Parade is BACK!
I mentioned this a while back, but the very popular Soundsational Parade is back at Disneyland Park as part of the Mickey and Minnie Celebration, Get Your Ears On!
Downtown Disney
In Downtown Disney news this week, Disney has announced a new ticketed event/attraction coming soon to Downtown Disney called Pop Up! Disney.
Pop-Up Disney!
They haven’t given us a whole lot of information yet, but it sounds like this will be sort of an exhibit, sort of an adventure in Photo Opps. It’s going into the space near the Monorail Station where the ESPN Zone used to be. They’re describing it as a bunch of themed rooms, all dedicated to 90 years of Mickey and Minnie. I will let you know more as soon as I actually know more! Disney did release this artist’s rendering of one of the themed rooms/Photo opportunities, see what you think:
Pop-Up Disney! Minnie Themed “Bow” Couch
Disney Parks News Updates: Walt Disney World
Epcot
A few pieces of news from Epcot this week. First from Mexico, beloved Mariachi Cobre is expanding their repertoire and adding a new show featuring the story of Pixar’s Coco. (If you haven’t seen Coco yet, go watch it now. I’ll wait. Seriously, it’s on Netflix, and you can rent it on Amazon or Vudu or YouTube. Go watch it. It’s about family and dreams and there is so much love and joy…it’s really lovely.)
Disney Pixar Coco
Ok, now that you’re back 😉, beginning March 6, Mariachi Cobre will be joined by a pair of Folklorico dancers to tell the journey of Miguel Rivera. They are also joined by a puppet of Miguel.
Miguel from Pixar’s Coco
Ralph and Vanellope are coming to Epcot!
You may have seen Ralph and Vanellope briefly in November when they popped up at Hollywood Studios to promote Ralph Breaks the Internet when it came out…but they are moving into a new (potentially) long term location at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot.
Ralph and Vanellope from Ralph Breaks the Internet
Here’s what’s happened: The Imagination Institute has been conducting a new experiment to open portals into other dimensions….and they’ve opened a portal into the Internet. This has allowed Ralph and Vanellope to come visit us at Image Works at the Imagination Pavilion!
I’m pretty happy about this. This pavilion has been largely ignored for a long time, so it’s exciting to see it get something new. I’m also really happy that Figment will have some fun company!
In somewhat related news, you will soon be able to take Ralph and Vanellope home with you on DVD with the release of the Blu Ray of Ralph Breaks the Internet on February 26.
Garden Rocks Concert Series
The Epcot Flower and Garden Festival starts in just 2 weeks! Can you believe it??
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival: Cogswell
I can’t!! As you probably know if you have been following me for any length of time F&G is one of my FAVORITE times of the year, and my absolutely favorite time to visit Epcot. One of the fun elements of F&G every year has been their Garden Rocks Concert Series. Garden Rocks concerts are held at the America Gardens Theatre in the American Adventure Pavilion, and are included in your Epcot admission.
Artists are usually nostalgic favorites from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, like Night Ranger, Tony Orlando, Berlin, Herman’s Hermits, Dennis DeYoung and Rick Springfield, among others. New this year: Air Supply, Journey former lead vocalist Steve Augeri, Wang Chung, The Smithereens, A Flock of Seagulls, Christopher Cross, Sister Sledge….the list goes on and on. Click here for the full list of performers, and the dates they will be performing during the Festival.
What’s new THIS year is that instead of Garden Rocks Concerts only happening on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the concerts are now going to be held EVERY NIGHT OF THE FESTIVAL! 7 nights a week!
Animal Kingdom
Kevin from UP! at Animal Kingdom
Pixar’s UP! Favorite Kevin has been seen at Animal Kingdom!
In one of my favorite stories of the week, Kevin, our favorite colorful bird friend from Pixar’s UP! has been seen wandering around Animal Kingdom’s Discovery island area. So far, it doesn’t look like there are any plans to set up an official character greeting area for Kevin–so his visit may be temporary–we’re not sure yet. For now it appears that he’s exploring and interacting with guests, along with his Wilderness Explorer guides.
New Pixar’s Up! Plush Kevin
Coincidentally, Disney is releasing a new Kevin plush toy in Animal Kingdom gift shops this month, so keep your eyes open for him. Look how cute he is! You KNOW that if you meet Kevin in the Park, you are going to HAVE to take one of these home, so be careful! 😉
The Lion King, 25th Anniversary
As you or may not know, this year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Lion King animated movie’s original release. As The Lion King has always been a big part of the Animal Kingdom story, I’m sure you are not going to be surprised that Disney is ramping things up a little bit for the 25th Anniversary of the Lion King.
Live musicians help guests let their inner animal loose on the dance floor during “Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Hakuna Matata dance parties are already taking place daily at Discovery Island. These feature animal inspired popular songs from the Lion King performed in a World Beat style. Timon, Rafiki, Baloo, Korda, Meeks and Terk stop by too! (Kinda feels like all the animated movies with animal characters got together and decided who could participate in this, doesn’t it?)
Disney has said they are releasing new fun photo spots themed to the Lion King. They also say we should watch for a 3D scene that looks like it leapt right out of the film. If I had to guess, I’d bet this 3D scene will be outside the main entrance, as Animal Kingdom is usually very good at preseving its theming and I can’t really picture a three dimensional cartoon scene plopped down in the middle of the park. But who knows? I could be wrong. I guess we’ll have to wait to see where they put it when it shows up.
Animal Kingdom Tree of Life Awakenings
Coming this summer, also in celebration of the Lion King’s 25th Anniversary, a special new story for the Tree of Life Awakenings projection show. The new story will depict moments from Simba’s journey in an “artistic style”, which I’m interpreting to mean NOT the art from the original film. The new story will also feature music inspired by the score of the Lion King–rather than from the movie itself.
And in another shocking coincidence, Disney’s new “Live Action” version of the Lion King is being released this summer. Have you seen the teaser trailer yet? If not, here it is:
What do you think? I suspect it will be very good, but I’m not sure how much “LIVE ACTION” it is…I’m thinking a lot of it has to be CGI, right? It looks good though, at least what we’ve seen so far, and I love the Lion King, so I’m in. I’d love to hear what you think, so post in the comments below.
Hollywood Studios
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
We are starting to get a tiny bit more information about the new show at Hollywood Studios that is coming this spring. It’s definitely a SHOW, which wasn’t 100% clear originally, and it sounds like it will allow for some audience interaction with Lightning McQueen. Check out the video below that Disney released:
I think it sounds like fun, and a welcome addition to Hollywood Studios, which still struggles a bit with all the things that closed in the last two years to make ways for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the new Minnie/Mickey ride that will replace the Great Movie Ride. Toy Story Land is terrific, but there’s still a fairly big gap at Hollywood Studios, so I think this will definitely help, and it pairs nicely with the other Pixar attractions and character greetings at Hollywood Studios. Now if we could only get our own Cars Land…
Disney Springs
In our final news story this week, Disney Springs welcomes a new store, The Art Corner. Located near The Art of Disney store, not far from Goofy’s Candy Company, this new pop up store sounds like a lot of fun!
It seems to offer several different opportunities to get one of a kind, handcrafted souvenirs–in some cases, even handcrafted by YOU.
Disney Springs’ The Art Corner
Disney is calling this a Pop Up store, which makes me think this is most likely a temporary offering…but if it’s popular, it could stick around! The Art Corner features works and hands on activities that were popular at the recent Epcot International Festival of the Arts. For example, pictured above is the ancient art of Suminigashi, also known as artistic marbling, used to custom make silk items.
The store also features:
Coffee and Canvas—Coffee themed paintings
Caricatures, both the new digital sketch version and the classic watercolor style. (I LOVE caricatures! I think they are a terrific souvenir, especially if you have kids–a really fun way to track how their interests change over the years, as usually the artist will incorporate the child’s interests into the work.)
Name Works, hand drawn names personalized with your choice of illustrations
Ron Jon Surf Shop Coming Soon to Disney Springs
Coming later this year to Disney Springs, a Ron Jon Surf Shop. The famed Surf Shop is moving into a 10,000 square foot space located near the Polite Pig. I don’t have dates yet, but will update you when I do.
Well that’s all I have for Disney Parks News Updates this week. IWhich of this week’s news stories are you most interested in? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
P.S. In case you missed it, Disney released the teaser trailer for Frozen II last week. Click here to check it out.
For lots of Disney fans, EVERY year is a good year to visit Disney World. In fact, if you ask me, almost every month of every year has lots of terrific reasons to visit Disney World!
Freezing at Disney?
I never met a Disney day I didn’t like. Croaking hot or freezing cold. Crowded, rainy, crabby people, phone calls from the office, giant group, or just me and my husband–never matters. I always love my time at Disney. (Of course, I might be just a LITTLE crazy, so there’s that).
However, this year, a lot of die hard Disney fans are deciding to wait to visit Walt Disney World until 2020, wanting to ensure their next trip includes the long anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I don’t blame them at all. If Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is a MAIN attraction for your next trip to Disney, I am recommending 2020 to a lot of my Disney travelers.
Right now, it looks like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open at Disneyland in California some time this summer. Hopeful reports say June…more practical reports are anticipating July or August. I suspect we’ll know more by March or April. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida, early reports predicted late October/early November, but more recent reports have indicated December is more likely. Again, we’ll know more later this year.
However, Disney has SO much more to offer than Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, especially THIS year. Yes, I’m SUPER excited that Galaxy’s Edge is coming and I’m DYING to check it out, but that doesn’t mean that 2019 isn’t still the PERFECT time to visit Disney World. Here are my Top 5 Reasons to Visit Disney World in 2019.
Ticket Prices
Disneyland raised its ticket prices a few days ago. I’m sure there are a variety of reasons behind this decision. Most of you are probably aware that ticket prices have been steadily increasing at BOTH Disneyland and Walt Disney World every year for quite a while now. Here are a few things to consider:
Disney has invested more money in BOTH Disneyland, California Adventure AND Walt Disney World in the last 10 years (adjusted for inflation) than they have at any other time in the Company’s history. Toy Story Land opened to record crowds and crazy long lines. Pandora’s VERY popular Flight of Passage attraction continues to routinely attract crowds and lines in excess of 90 minutes. While the Toy Story franchise is of course much beloved, it doesn’t hold a candle to the popularity of Star Wars. Avatar’s fan base is tiny in comparison to Star Wars and while it will probably grow over time as more films are released, it will never touch the popularity of Star Wars. I do believe Disney’s Pandora (as a land) will grow it’s own fan base, separate and distinct from the Avatar movie franchise, but again, a drop in the ocean against the size of the Star Wars fanbase. And of course, there are are tens of thousands of Star Wars fans that are not necessarily “Disney” fans or Disney theme park fans that will be VERY interested in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge…and may discover a previously undiscovered love of Disney in the process. (I suspect there is more than one executive at Disney betting their bonus on this possibility!)
Star Wars is a unique phenomenon in fandom. It has fans from all over the world, in almost all age groups, and in most ethnic groups. Star Wars fans are passionate and voracious for new Star Wars “stuff” and Disney hasn’t been the number one leader in entertainment for the last fifty years without learning a few things about how to provide new “stuff” and how to make lots of money related to all that new “stuff”. Disney has gambled BIG with their acquisition of LucasFilms and the Star Wars franchise, and they’ve had some major victories as well as some pretty significant setbacks. They have invested BILLIONS in these theme park expansions, and while I fully expect they will earn BILLIONS more as a result, that’s going to take a while. And Disney is a publicly traded company–some of you probably own stock.
Disney has shareholders to keep happy–and shareholders like to see VERY healthy bottom lines. So in the short term, I personally think Disney theme parks is going to justify (and help offset) those giant investments and shore up profit margins with higher ticket prices, merchandise prices and probably resort prices heading into late 2019 and 2020. (I think this is also why we have so many feature films on the docket this year. Disney movies tend to be VERY profitable and make lots and lots of money!)
Movies…boy, do we have movies…
Note: Disney’s fiscal year is unusual–it runs October through September instead of January through December like many companies. Disney’s fourth quarter ends with September.
What does this mean for you, and why do I think you should visit Disney this year? While I do suspect Walt Disney World ticket prices will see another ticket price increase later this year, I believe ticket prices are set for right now, especially in packages. Disney World released their “date based” ticket pricing last fall, and scheduled ticket prices right up through mid December 2019. I’m hopeful that indicates that tickets prices will hold steady through most of the year.
Planning ahead is always best, and booking sooner rather than later will always protect your pricing–this holds true for trips next year as well. Plan your trip as early as you can–lock your prices in early. If prices decrease, you can usually get the discounts added, especially if you work with a Disney travel agent (like me 😉), but if they increase, you won’t have to pay the higher prices. Ticket prices are lower now than they are likely to be next year: a great reason to visit Disney World in 2019!
Lighter Crowds
The reality is that many people will not have the budget to visit this year AND next year–and SO many people will want to make sure to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, they’ll be planning their trips to Walt Disney World for late 2019 or 2020. Which means you, my savvy traveler, can benefit from lighter crowds (in theory at least) THIS year.
It’s a beautiful day to be at the Magic Kingdom! Let’s pretend the crowds will be this light ALL DAY!
I’m not promising empty streets and no lines…those days are long gone, I’m afraid. And of course there are TONS of families that just don’t care about Star Wars (REALLY??? Who ARE these people??? Just Kidding). BUT, the numbers don’t lie, and current resort bookings support lighter crowds at this point for much of the year. Of course that can change at any time, especially as Disney adds special promotions designed to attract higher crowds. [FREE DINING, anyone?]
But lots of folks have already booked their trips for next year and aren’t likely to move them. And here’s the real hardcore truth: this year is probably the last year where the crowds won’t be just BANANAS all the time. If you look at how aggressively Disney has been adding resorts, expanding resorts, partnering with local “good neighbor” hotels–they are anticipating a LARGE increase in visitor volumes in the coming years, once Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens.
Here’s my thoughts on all this expansion: all those lovely people occupying all those lovely rooms are NOT going to be spending ALL their time (and money) inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. They ARE going to visit the rest of Hollywood Studios and the other three parks. They won’t be able to resist the MAGIC. We have all known it for years…The magic of Disney is irresistible. They will attracted to a particular character or attraction and they will visit a park “just for a little while to check it out” and twelve hours later, they’ll still be there. It’s happened to all of us. It’s the magic of Disney. And what it means is that crowd volumes won’t just rise in Hollywood Studios for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge…they will rise EVERYWHERE.
There simply will be no more “lighter crowd” periods, I suspect. Of course, I could be wrong. But Disney is adding capacity for thousands of additional hotel rooms. THOUSANDS. And Disney resorts, for the most part, tend to stay at 80% or better capacity most of the time–and they usually don’t have to work too hard to do it.
c Disney. Artist Rendering of Disney’s Riviera Resort, the 15th DVC Property, expected to include 300 family villas. And this is just ONE of the new resorts they’re working on…
Bottom line: Unless you are a fan of wall to wall crowds, you may want to plan a visit for this year just to bask in the glory of what will soon be fond memories of “normal” crowds and the “good old days”.
I trust Disney, and I am sure they have lots of creative ideas up their sleeve to help with crowd management…but I also know the reality is that “if you build it, they will come”…and Disney has built it, and THEY are COMING. 😉 So visit this year if you can…before they get here!
Special Celebrations
Mickey and Minnie Birthday Celebration
This year features several new limited time celebrations you won’t want to miss. First up: Mickey and Minnie’s Surprise Celebration. This begins January 18, 2019 and finds Mickey and Minnie at the Magic Kingdom wearing their fabulous new 90th birthday outfits. The “Move It! Shake! MousekeDance It! Street Party” has been updated for the celebration, and Magic Kingdom will feature new merchandise and specialty food and beverages in honor of our favorite duo. You’ll also be able to meet both Minnie and Mickey together, in their birthday outfits, at the Town Square Theatre! I’m a sucker for Mickey and Minnie together, so this is a MUST DO for me!
Linda and Brooke with Mickey and Minnie at Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Hollywood Studios turns 30! This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Disney’s Hollywood Studios (though it was originally called MGM Studios, and was conceptually quite different than the park we have today…sigh), and Disney is planning to honor this anniversary all year with a special logo and of course, special anniversary merchandise. There will also be a new “Party with Pixar Pals” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting January 18, 2019, where you can celebrate the 30th Anniversary with the Incredibles at a Dance Party–and you’ll be able to meet Edna Mode, as well as other Pixar favorites, like Mike and Sully from Monsters, Inc. and Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie from Toy Story.
Edna Mode at Hollywood Studios
The Lion King turns 25 this year, and not only do we have the new live action movie to look forward to, we have a 25th anniversary celebration happening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, starting January 18, 2019. Rafiki and Timon will lead guests in dances and games during the Hakuna Makata Time Dance Party on Discovery Island.
Farewell to Illuminations
If you are a fan of Epcot’s long running nighttime show, Illuminations: Reflections of Earth (It’s been running since October 1999!), it is scheduled to end sometime during the second half of 2019. We don’t have a final performance date yet; hopefully Disney will give us some advance warning before this beloved show goes dark–but if you want to see it one last time, don’t wait too long–you won’t be able to see it in 2020.
Epcot Illuminations Reflections of Earth
Disney will of course be presenting a new nighttime show at Epcot, but we do not have any information about the new show yet.
This one is pretty tough for me. Frank and I love Illuminations, and on our wedding day, we hosted a dessert party for our guests so that everyone could watch it together. It was really magical and is a memory I will never forget… I am definitely sad that this show will be no more.
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I still haven’t recovered from Wishes being replaced. {sigh}. I may have an issue with change. 😉 Or I’m really sentimental. Or a combination of both…
New Attractions
Believe it or not, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is not the ONLY new thing on the horizon. There are some other really big things coming, especially if you look ahead to 2021 and 2022. (Guardians of the Galaxy and Tron roller coasters, a Ratatouille attraction…lots of good stuff ahead…)
But there are some exciting things happening THIS year, too!
c Disney Jaleo Disney Springs Artist Rendering
At Disney Springs, there is a new restaurant coming. (Ok, that’s not necessarily an attraction unless you’re a foodie, but I’m excited about it, so I’m sharing). It’s called “Jaleo”. It is coming to us from Chef Jose Andres and will bring the flavors of Spain. The new restaurant will feature Spanish tapas style food and a lively atmosphere. Sounds like a winner to me!
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is opening later this year at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is officially the first EVER ride through attraction featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse. I’m not sure how I feel about this one, but I’m hopeful.
c Disney Artist Rendering Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
It’s replacing the Great Movie Ride, which has left a GIANT hole in my heart, but the Studios really needs another attraction, and I’m hoping it will be cheerful and fun and that kids will love it.
Also at Hollywood Studios this spring, Lightning McQueen is bringing his new “Racing Academy to town this spring. This will be a show featuring Lightning McQueen, and will hopefully be lots of fun for CARS fans.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is also getting a new cinematic nighttime experience…hopefully to put a little Hollywood back into the studios. This show is also part of the anniversary celebration, and will begin on the actual anniversary date, May 1, 2019. It’s called “Wonderful World of Animation” and uses technology to take us through 90 years of animation–back to where it all started…with a mouse.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Wonderful World of Animation
I’m pretty excited about this show. I saw the special Star Wars show last May 4th (may the fourth be with you) and was BLOWN away by what Disney did with technology. Hopefully they are breaking more new ground with this Animation show.
Disney Skyliner: I’m not sure this REALLY counts as an attraction as it’s considered “transportation”, but it should! (In my opinion, anyway!) I am SO excited to see these gondolas in action. What an amazing way to move from the Studios to Epcot! As a reminder, we don’t have a concrete opening date yet; all we know is “Fall“. Gondolas have been seen on site at construction locations and we’ve heard that preliminary testing of the cables is happening. It’s all very exciting.
Disney Skyliner Gondola animation graphics showing what the gondolas will look like
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Disney World in 2019
So there you have them: my top 5 reasons to visit Disney World in 2019. I actually have a much longer list, and had a difficult time paring it down! To summarize: if you CAN visit in 2019, I highly recommend it. Ticket prices are going to be climbing in the coming years. Make your reservations for travel this year before ticket prices rise.
Crowds are going to be lighter in 2019 than they will be for the foreseeable future. Once Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens up, crowd levels are likely to set new records. I suspect those crowd levels will stay high for many years to come.
There are quite a few special celebrations happening this year. Most celebrations are starting in January and will continue throughout the year. Visit this year to enjoy these limited 2019 celebrations.
Epcot’s Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is ending later this year. 2019 is definitely your last opportunity to see this show if you love it. We don’t have a final end date yet; however, Disney has confirmed the show will end in the second half of 2019.
And finally, there are several new attractions opening in 2019. Don’t you want to be among the first to check out these new attractions?
Are you considering a trip to WDW for 2019? What are YOUR top 5 reasons?
