If you love Disney fireworks like I do, trust me, you want to know about Disney Fireworks Cruises. These exceptional experiences offer some of the best fireworks views around AND you get to avoid the crowds!
I am a Disney fireworks junkie, I admit it. Over the last 20 years, I have seen ever incarnation of Disney fireworks at all of the Florida Disney World parks, from regular shows to limited runs to holiday spectaculars. I LOVE Disney fireworks. If my fellow travelers would allow, we would watch Disney fireworks from SOMEWHERE every night of our Disney vacations.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Where to watch the show from is just as important as which show on what night. And I have watched from every location I could. In front of the castle, behind the castle. The rooftop at Bay Lake Tower, the catwalk at the Contemporary Resort. The porch at Narcoossee’s. The Beach at the Polynesian.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks from Bay Lake Tower Photo: Brooke Hudson
We’ve watched EPCOT fireworks from every country around the World Showcase and have watched from the spot between Port of Entry and Mexico or Canada. I’ve even watched from parking lots and the Skyliner.
Illuminations Reflections of Earth, Wedding Dessert Party Photo: Vicki and David Arndt
Until last night, I would have told you that the very best fireworks viewing to be had was from Disney fireworks dessert parties. We hosted a fireworks dessert party in the UK after our wedding and it was AMAZING—and offered a wonderful view of the fireworks. We’ve become big fans of the Seats and Sweets Fireworks Dessert Party over at the Magic Kingdom (Click Here to read my blog post about fireworks dessert parties.) While I would still highly recommend Disney fireworks dessert parties, the Disney fireworks cruise is has climbed to the top of the list for me. This is the BEST way to view Disney fireworks—and to have a terrific overall experience as well.
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Disney Fireworks Cruises – The Basics
First off, let me caution you: this is not an economical experience. However, it is also not an exceptionally overpriced extravagant experience. The current price for a Disney Fireworks Cruise is $449 + tax, and you can include up to 10 people on your cruise. This is a private, chartered cruise, and includes the services of a captain. The cruise also includes snacks, as well as pop, juice and water. If you shared the cost over all 10 people, each person would pay less than $60, and that would include the tip for the captain!
Disney Fireworks Cruise Oct 2024 Captain Kayleigh
You are also allowed to bring your own treats and/or alcoholic beverages if you wish.
Disney Fireworks Cruise Family Time Photo: Brooke Hudson
Children under 12 must wear a life jacket—provided by the marina team. Your cruise can also include a birthday or anniversary banner (provided by the Marina team) at no additional charge and may also include balloons for no additional charge if the winds are not too high.
Happy Birthday Banner Disney Pontoon Boats Photo: Deidra Ocampo
EPCOT Fireworks Cruises
EPCOT fireworks, currently “Luminous, a Symphony of Us”, are always at 9 pm. EPCOT fireworks cruises board at the Yacht Club Marina, located near the lighthouse at the Yacht Club on Crescent Lake. Each night, up to five pontoon boats may be chartered for the fireworks cruise. Your group (again, up to a maximum of 10 people) will board your boat at approximately 7:45 pm, with your captain setting sail at 8pm.
Crescent Lake Boat Tour – Swan & Dolphin Photo: Brooke Hudson
Your boat will tour Crescent Lake for approximately 35-40 minutes, traveling past the Swan and Dolphin to Disney’s Hollywood Studios before heading into EPCOT to tie up with the other fireworks cruise boats, just inside the park, between the UK and France.
Crescent Lake Boat Tour Photo: Brooke Hudson
Your group will float happily in this perfect location to watch the entire Luminous show. Once the show is over, the boats will separate and gradually return to their home dock. The entire experience lasts about an hour and a half.
Disney Fireworks Cruise, Boats Tied Together Before Show Starts Photo: Brooke HudsonDisney EPCOT Fireworks Cruise Photo: Brooke HudsonDisney Fireworks Cruises Pontoon Boats Photo: Brooke Hudson
Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruises
Magic Kingdom fireworks start at different times, depending on sunset and/or holiday parties or special events. So the Magic Kingdom fireworks cruises are not quite as consistently scheduled as the EPCOT fireworks cruises are. The experience is quite similar though. Your experience will last approximately an hour and a half, and your boat will depart approximately one hour before the fireworks are scheduled. Your cruise will board at the Marina at the Contemporary Resort. Your boat captain will tour Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon with your party, making sure that your party has a great view of the fireworks, once they are ready to begin.
Disney Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruise Boats Photo: Brooke Hudson
The main difference between the two experiences is that the Magic Kingdom fireworks cruise boats do not tie up together like the EPCOT fireworks cruise boats do. The Magic Kingdom fireworks cruise boats continue cruising throughout the fireworks show, albeit at a much slower pace. After the fireworks are over, the captain will return your boat to the Marina.
Note: Some Magic Kingdom fireworks cruises will launch from the Marina at the Grand Floridian resort. Please confirm your launch location when reserving your cruise.
How to Book a Disney Fireworks Cruise
Booking a Disney Fireworks Cruise is relatively easy; however, you cannot book your cruise until 60 days before the date of your cruise. You can book a Disney Fireworks Cruise through the My Disney Experience app, through this link, or by calling (407) WDW-PLAY (407) 939-7529. Alternatively, if you are working with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner like myself, your planner may also reserve your cruise for you.
The cost of your cruise is $449 + tax (and a tip for your captain!).
Disney Fireworks Cruise Family Photo Octo 2024
Rent a Pontoon Boat
Did you know that you can rent a pontoon boat during the day for up to 10 passengers during your Disney vacation? Rentals are available at the Yacht Club Marina, the Contemporary Resort Marina and the Grand Floridian Marina. You can rent the boat as long as you have a valid driver’s license, state ID or Military ID and are over 18 years old.
Things to keep in mind:
Cost $49 + tax for 3o minutes
Children under 12 years old must wear a complimentary life jacket
Reservations are not required
Rentals are available on a first come, first served basis
These boat rentals do NOT include a captain; YOU will be responsible for driving the boat.
Smoking is not allowed on board any Disney boat or watercraft
Only Resort guests or guests with Resort dining reservations will be permitted to park in the Resort parking areas
Final Thoughts
One thing to keep in mind. Once you have done a Disney Fireworks Cruise, you will have a hard time ever going back to standing shoulder to shoulder with 25,000 of your closest friends to watch Disney fireworks in a theme park! My mom and I were joking the other evening that we have been completely spoiled now–between the Seats & Sweets Fireworks Dessert Parties we’ve attended and now this amazing Disney Fireworks Cruise, regular old fireworks standing out in the Magic Kingdom or at EPCOT just isn’t going to feel as good as it used to!
We all had such a wonderful time on our Disney EPCOT Fireworks Cruise!
What do YOU think? Would you like to try a Disney Fireworks Cruise sometime? Comment below.
I have a Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruise on my Wishlist now. I’m going to see if I can collect a few friends next trip to split the cost with me…
I am a Disney World fireworks junkie, I admit it. Combining desserts WITH Disney fireworks? Sounds like a win to me! This is where Disney Dessert Parties come in. But are they worth it?
For many Disney theme park fans, myself included, Walt Disney World’s nightly fireworks displays can be the highlight of their Disney Day. These amazing displays of pyrotechnics artistically themed and perfectly choreographed to music are beautiful and often emotionally stirring. (And also REALLY expensive and not great for the environment. But that’s a topic for another blog!).
However, finding a great spot to watch the fireworks from can be challenging. Don’t get me wrong–There are LOTS of places to stand (or occasionally, to sit) and watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But a GREAT spot? Where, if you are so inclined, you can capture good pictures or video? Without a child on someone’s shoulders dead center in all your photos? THIS is a nightly challenge! The best spots are often staked out 2-3 hours in advance–and even then, I’ve seen park guests enraged when after two hours of carefully guarding their “spot”, latecomers encroach and crowd into their space. Remember, these shows come at the end of long, very active and often very hot days. I love Disney fireworks shows with all my heart, but standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of sweaty strangers can, at times, be uncomfortable.
But what options do we have? We all want to watch the fireworks. 60% of us want to photograph or record video of the show. So we suck it up, find a spot as early as we are willing to, and take turns running to the closest Mickey Bar kiosk to get a sugar rush to (hopefully) carry us through.
Disney has an option for you–but it will cost you. Disney offers several different varieties of a Fireworks Dessert Party for some of their shows in some of their parks, depending on the time of year and whether the park is open to regular guests. These Disney Dessert Parties are offered at several price points, but none of them are what we would think of as an “economy” option. Disney Dessert Parties are growing in popularity, and are often sold out. The question is, are Disney Dessert Parties worth the money?
What is a Disney Dessert Party?
Basically, Disney Dessert Parties are a semi private event that you can buy a ticket to for a particular fireworks show at a particular theme park on a particular night. Your Disney Dessert Party ticket includes 45 minutes – 1 hour access to a generous buffet of desserts, cheeses and beverages. Beverages do include an assortment of beer and wine for guests age 21 and over. Your Disney Dessert Party ticket will also include access to a protected viewing area for that evening’s fireworks presentation. This area will ONLY be accessible to Disney Dessert Party guests, and Disney is careful not to oversell these events. This ensures that the Disney Dessert Party protected viewing areas are not crazy crowded. At minimum, your viewing experience will be more comfortable and you’ll have some breathing room.
Disney Dessert Party tickets are a separate purchase from your theme park ticket, but a theme park ticket is required for entry into the park. If you are visiting the park on a one-day ticket during a peak season, your day’s ticket could be as high as $160. If you add on a Disney Dessert Party, you could be adding another $100 – $150 to that day’s ticket costs. It’s important to keep that in mind–this is an additional ticket. You have to have a park ticket to enter the park, and you have to have a paid Disney Dessert Party reservation to attend the Disney Dessert Party and to have access to the protected fireworks viewing area.
In this post, we’ll focus on Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties. We’ll talk about Disney Dessert Party options at the other parks in a future post.
What does a Disney Dessert Party Cost?
Short answer? It depends. Currently, Disney is offering three different Disney Dessert Parties at Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park for the Happily Ever After evening fireworks shows.
The first Disney Dessert Party option available is the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Party Pre-Party. A reservation is required for each member of your party to attend this event, and your card will be charged when you make the reservation.
Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant Photo: Brooke HudsonTomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, Magic Kingdom Dessert Party Check In. Photo: Brooke Hudson
You will check in at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, where you will be given a wrist band. You will then be directed to the upper area of Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, where your party will be taken to a seating area. Your dessert buffet, beverage area and bar area will be located on this upper level. Please note that you may be sharing tables with other groups. You can visit the dessert buffet stations and the various beverage stations in your area as often as you want to, during the time you in your designated dessert party area in the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. About 30 minutes before the fireworks are due to begin, dessert party cast members will circulate through the seating area and let you know that they will begin leading guests to the designated fireworks viewing area for party goers.
Current pricing is $99 per adult (ages 10+) and $59 per child (ages 3-9). Taxes are included. Per the Walt Disney Company, gratuities are not included or necessary
Fireworks Viewing Area
I’ve done a few of these parties over the years. Usually, a cast member will carry a red flashlight and lead a line of dessert party guests from the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant to the designated fireworks viewing area in the Plaza Garden. Depending on how crowded the park is that day, this may happen quickly or it may take a while as you are led through the surrounding crowd to the designated area in the Plaza Garden. For the fireworks viewing, the Plaza Garden is blocked off from the rest of the park guests. Only guests with a paid dessert party admission are allowed into this area for approximately 2 hours before the fireworks and including the show itself. It is a standing area, but it won’t be super crowded.
If you aren’t familiar with the Plaza Garden, it is located to the right after The Plaza Restaurant and the seating area across from the Plaza restaurant. During the day, the Plaza Garden usually features a couple of PhotoPass photographers, as this area offers a lovely view of the castle. This is also the spot where, during the day, you can take the PhotoPass photo where you are photographed from a camera located on the roof of The Plaza Restaurant building.
Plaza Garden Photo Spot Photo: Disney PhotoPassPlaza Garden Photo Spot and Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties Fireworks Viewing Area. Photo: Disney PhotoPass
Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Post-Party
The next Magic Kingdom Dessert Party option is the Post-Party. This party is very similar to the Pre-party described above; however, in this version, you watch the fireworks FIRST, and attend the Dessert Party itself after the fireworks.
You will still check in at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant and get your wristband approximately 45 minutes to one hour before the fireworks. Once you have your wristband, you will be shown to the same fireworks viewing area described above. This area is the viewing area for both the Pre-Party Dessert Party and the Post-Party Dessert Party.
After the fireworks display is over, cast members will lead you back to the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant for your Post-Party Dessert Party. Your party will be led by a cast member to the upper level of Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, where you will be shown to a seating area. Depending on the size of your party, you may be sharing a table with other guests.
Once you have your seating area, you have the freedom to visit the dessert buffet or any of the beverage stations as often as you’d like until the end of the party, approximately 45 minutes after the end of the fireworks.
Current pricing for the Magic Kingdom Post-Party Dessert Party: $99 per adult (aged 10 and over) and $59 per child ages 3-9. Tax is included. Gratuity is not included and not necessary per the Walt Disney Company.
The final Magic Kingdom Dessert Party option is my personal favorite: Seats and Sweets. This Magic Kingdom Dessert Party allows you to “keep your seats” during fireworks show itself, not just before the show or after the show, like the previous two parties I’ve described.
Check in for the Seats and Sweets Dessert Party is similar to the other parties. You check in at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant and receive a wristband. The entrance for this particular party is actually on the Tomorrowland side of the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. Don’t worry if you forget—whichever party you are attending, no matter where you try to check in, the cast members will make sure you get to the right place.
Once you have your wristband for the party, a cast member will show you to your table on the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant patio area. This is your table until the party is over. Yes, you can sit and watch the fireworks in comfort at this Dessert Party.
Magic Kingdom Seats and Sweets Dessert Party Photo: Brooke Hudson
Once you have your assigned table, you are free to visit the dessert buffet or the various beverage stations as often as you like. There’s no rush to finish your desserts before the show starts though. You don’t have to relocated to watch the show, or scramble to find a good viewing spot. I walked around the patio area quite a bit during our last Seats & Sweets Dessert Party, and I think all the tables offer a good viewing spot!!
Magic Kingdom Seats and Sweets Dessert Party. Photo: Brooke Hudson
There are cast members working throughout the party, busing the tables to clear away your empty plates or glasses. If you attend this party, I recommend arriving at or before the start time, so you have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your desserts and beverages before the fireworks begin.
Current pricing is $114 per adult (ages 10+) and $69 per child (ages 3-9). Taxes are included already. Gratuity is not included and not necessary, per the Walt Disney Company on its website promoting the party. note: this price is about $10 per person less than it was the last time I attended this party. Prices on all three Dessert Party options are subject to change — and they do change—especially during busier seasons.
Magic Kingdom Seats and Sweets Dessert Party Fireworks View. Photo: Brooke Hudson
It depends. $100- $150 (depending on the season) per person for approximately 1 hour’s worth of food, beverages and entertainment is a lot of money for many of us. If money is no object, I would definitely encourage to book a Magic Kingdom Dessert Party for your traveling group on your next trip. Whether you watch from the reserved standing viewing area in the Plaza Garden or you watch from the comfort of your seats on the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant patio, the fireworks experience is much more enjoyable this way.
For most of us, money is a concern. And if you have a large group or family, this event could cost your group $1,000 or more!! I’ve had people tell me that I’m crazy for spending $100+ for a 15 minute fireworks display that I can watch from all over the park. But I’m not really paying for the fireworks display itself—I’m paying for the comfort before, during and after the fireworks display.
Now, if fireworks aren’t your thing, or if you don’t care one way or the other about watching the show—clearly you are not the target audience for any of these parties. Save your money and get in shorter ride lines during the show.
However, if you are like me and you LOVE Disney fireworks, I recommend you give strong consideration to whether your budget can extend to include a Magic Kingdom Dessert Party for your family or traveling group.
What exactly are you paying for?
Each Magic Kingdom Dessert Party includes the same dessert buffet. I’ve double checked at each party I’ve been to, and the options at the other parties were the same. The dessert buffet will include 8-12 small dessert pastry options. It will also include some cheese and some fruit. Sometimes, there might be a soft serve ice cream machine. At our last party, there was no ice cream, but there was a cookie decorating station and there was someone making fresh dessert crepes while you watched.
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Your Disney Dessert Party ticket also includes unlimited access to the various beverage stations. Coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and water are always included in the beverage options. In addition, there is an assortment of beer and wine available for those guests that are age 21 and over with a valid ID.
The Value Proposition
Let’s do the math: if the average glass of wine on Disney property is $11, and you have two glasses of wine at the party, you would have spent $22 on that wine. Food on Disney property is not economically priced, so if you were to order a dessert at most Disney restaurants, you’d probably spend around $12. So far, we’re at $34. Add in that you can revisit the buffet multiple times and also get a cup of coffee — I think you could round out the food and beverage component at around $40 of comparative value—less if you don’t drink alcohol.
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If your party won’t be drinking alcohol, the beverages will offer much less value for your family. You may find that without alcohol, the Disney Dessert Party ticket may not have enough value for you personally.
Your Disney Dessert Party ticket also includes a seat at a table during the dessert party portion of the party. For the Pre-Party and Post-Party, your ticket also includes access to the Plaza Garden private fireworks viewing area. This area is only open to Dessert Party attendees. Yes, it is a standing area. However, if you weren’t attending the Dessert Party, you’d be standing to watch the show—but for much longer and much more uncomfortably. You are not standing shoulder to shoulder in the Plaza Garden Dessert Party fireworks viewing area. There is usually plenty of space to spread out from your neighbors. It’s a prime viewing location, and the extra breathing room makes for a much more comfortable viewing experience.
If you’re going to the Pre-Party, you are going to be sitting for most of the 45 minutes leading up to the fireworks display. If you are going to the Post-Party, you have a guaranteed spot inside the Plaza Garden viewing area. There is no need to stake out a spot 2 hours before the show. You can access the Plaza Garden as early as 1 hour before the show and as late as 30 minutes before the show. (I wouldn’t personally cut it any closer than that—but I’m sure there are risk takers who would be comfortable arriving a few minutes before the show starts!)
For the Seats and Sweets Dessert Party, you will be sitting for the entirety of your experience. This makes for a much more relaxing and enjoyable experience, in my opinion.
Linda and Brooke at Magic Kingdom Seats and Sweet Dessert Party. Photo: Dessert Party Cast Member
The Bottom Line
Attending a Disney Dessert Party is definitely more of a luxury experience. If you are super budget inclined, a Magic Kingdom Dessert Party may not be for you. However, if you are going to splurge on something during your trip, this is one experience I would strongly consider.
I cannot stress enough how nice it is not to have to stake out a spot to watch the fireworks 1.5 – 2 hours before the show. And of course, if you do arrive early to stake out your spot, you are going to be standing there for a long time. Which, let’s face it—after long day of walking 4-7 miles in the park and standing in various lines—can really put a damper on how much you enjoy the show.
Personally, I think there is a lot of value in being able to sit down and relax for 45+ minutes before the show. Even more value in being able to sit and relax for the hour leading up to the show and to stay seated during the show.
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If the Post-Party is on your menu, there is a lot of value to not having to arrive super early to find your spot. And, as soon as the show is over, you know that you will be able to sit down and enjoy desserts and beverages for 45 minutes to an hour.
How much value you place on these things is an individual decision. If you do want to attend a Magic Kingdom Dessert Party during your trip, make sure you are making your reservations at the earliest possible date. If you are staying on Disney property, that’s 60 days prior to the first night of your reservation, and for the length of your reservation. If you are not staying on property, you’ll be able to book 60 days prior to the date of the party you want to attend.
Final Thoughts on Disney Dessert Parties
I definitely recommend Disney Dessert Parties to my clients, family and friends that can budget for it. I recommend planning your party for near the end of your trip. You’ll appreciate the extra time sitting more later in your trip. Earlier in the trip, when everyone’s legs are still fresh, you won’t benefit as much from the extra sitting time.
Also, do not plan a big lunch or dinner on Dessert Party day. Skip your popcorn, churros, and Mickey Bars on Dessert Party day. If you fill up before the party, you won’t get eat or enjoy your desserts as much.
Another suggestion: if your resort room includes a refrigerator, consider bring ziploc baggies or take out boxes and take some extra dessert pastries back to your resort with you.
What are your thoughts? Are any of the Disney Dessert Parties on your wishlist? Please share your thoughts below.
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
We have breaking news this morning. At last, Disney has opened up reservations for next fall. Disney fall 2021 vacation packages are now available.
Winter Icicle Castle (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
As you may already be aware, next October will mark the 50th Anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. There are many refurbishment projects currently underway, intended to spruce up the parks and resorts for Disney’s big 50th Anniversary. We are all hopeful that by next fall, many of the restrictions imposed by Covid-19 will be lifted, and we’ll all be able to fully enjoy the complete Disney experience.
Spaceship Earth (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)
Many guests have been waiting for Disney fall 2021 vacation packages to book their 2021 Disney vacations because they want to be on Disney property during the celebration. There are also thousands of Disney fans (my family included!) that had to cancel their 2020 vacation plans due to the impact of Covid-19. These fans have been anxiously waiting for Disney to open up fall 2021 vacation packages.
Enjoy Animal Kingdom at Night (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney Fall 2021 Vacation Packages Available NOW
Today is the day. Vacation packages and resort reservations are now available from September 27, 2021 through December 31, 2021. If you are interested in booking your Disney fall 2021 vacation, please contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Photo: Disney Parks)
If you think you might want to visit Disney next fall, I highly encourage you to book sooner rather than later! Disney is going to be applying the full court marketing press, and doing their best to make sure that EVERYONE wants to be at Disney World next fall.
I was at Disney for the 45th Anniversary and it was PACKED! Hotels were at full capacity for most of that fall, and dining reservations were super tough to get. It’s better to lock in your plan early–even if you may need to make changes later.
Work with a Travel Agent
One of the (many!) benefits of working with an authorized Disney vacation planner is that we have direct access into the Disney systems. We often have access to unpublished or limited discounts not available to the general public. If you book your vacation through an authorized Disney vacation planner, and Disney releases a discount later that would save you money, we can go in to their system and apply that discount to your package. (As long as final payment has not been made.)
Linda and Brooke with Mickey and Minnie at Animal Kingdom
Working with a Disney vacation planner does not cost you ANYTHING. We are paid by Disney. But by working with me, you have my expertise, Disney love, and hundreds of amazing vacations on your team. This can be a challenging time to navigate planning a Disney vacation. Let me help make it magical!
Have a wonderful week!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. Did you get this week’s Disney Parks News Update? Check it out here.
Disney World parks have now been reopened for two weeks. How it’s going seems to depend a lot on who you talk to. Now that the dust has settled a little bit on the reopening, we wanted to update you on a few announcements Disney has made since the parks reopened. Disney has announced Disney attraction closures, both temporary and permanent. There are also several highly anticipated upcoming attractions that have been put on the back burner, modified or cancelled altogether.
Resort Opening Changes
Disney has decided NOT to reopen Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Boardwalk Inn until further notice. Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter and Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resorts will both remain closed until further notice. In addition, the three All Star value resorts and Pop Century resorts remain closed at this time.
Disney has pushed back the reopening of both Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Here is the new schedule of the resorts that are scheduled to reopen this year.
July 29:Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
August 24: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
September 21: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
October 4: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
October 14: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
November 1: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
It is important to remember that all these dates are still subject to change. Disney continues to evaluate the health situation and what is happening in the state of Florida.
Spaceship Earth Refurbishment
Previously, Disney had planned to close Spaceship Earth in May 2020 for a two to three year refurbishment. Read about that here.
When the parks reopened, fans were happy to see that Spaceship Earth reopened, right along with the rest of EPCOT attractions. Shortly after reopening, Disney announced that plans to refurbish/reimagine Spaceship Earth had been paused indefinitely.
Spaceship Earth (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)
At this time, no additional information has been released. If you’ve ridden Spaceship Earth anytime over the last year or two, you’ve probably noticed that it needs refurbishment. Some areas of the ride, and many of the ride vehicles look worn.
Why the pause? In short: Money. Disney lost more than $1 billion during the first month the parks were closed, and when the next quarter’s results are released, that loss will no doubt be mind boggling large. As a result, it is likely that Disney will be scaling back on planned projects, or even canceling projects to control spending until the parks start to recover financially. This, unfortunately, is likely to take YEARS.
We suspect that Spaceship Earth will close at some point either in 2021 or 2022 for a few months for cleaning and refurbishment, but it is doubtful that the substantial refurbishment originally planned will happen at all. This is not official, this is just our opinion. On the upside, if you are planning to visit the parks over the next 18 months, most likely Spaceship Earth will be open.
Mary Poppins Attraction
For as long as Disney has been building attractions, there have been rumors that a Mary Poppins themed attraction would be built. For many, the very brief Mary Poppins scene in the now-gone Great Movie Ride was a favorite scene. When Mary Poppins Returns was released in 2018, a resurgence of interest in Mary Poppins was born. When Disney announced that at long last, a Mary Poppins themed attraction was going to land in the UK Pavilion at EPCOT, many fans were THRILLED. While very few details were ever released about the planned attraction, it was officially announced. The attraction was included in the presentation at the Epcot Experience in the Odyssey Events Pavilion. The attraction has now been removed from that presentation.
Disney officially announced that the planned Mary Poppins attraction has been “postponed”. In this case, it is likely that the attraction will never materialize. It doesn’t appear that the attraction had gotten very far down the imagineering road, and given the financial losses Disney sustained this year? It doesn’t look good for our girl Mary. Hopefully, we are wrong, and we will eventually see this attraction move ahead. It is unlikely to happen for several years, however, and we suspect other properties will be higher priorities by then.
Disney Attraction Closures
Along with announcing postponements, Disney also announced some attraction closures. For the most part, these were not surprising.
Stitch’s Great Escape
Disney has permanently closed Stitch’s Great Escape. This controversial ride was (in our opinion) a ham fisted overlay of the failed scary attraction, Alien Adventure. After many guest complained, Alien Adventure was closed and a new “story” was created to make the attraction less scary and more funny, using the same basic attraction features. Stitch was stuck into the “story”, assumably to attract younger children and families to try the new version of the attraction.
The attraction was never very popular. In our opinion, it didn’t really work. The story was neither fun nor funny, and including Stitch didn’t really make much sense. The ride wasn’t as scary, it was more gross—and while that can be both fun and funny, in this case…it really wasn’t.
For the last couple of years, Stitch’s Great Escape has been closed more than it’s been opening. The attraction has opened a few times a year when crowds are particularly high to try and give people another attraction to visit. Disney’s decision to permanently close the attraction and no longer use it for overflow suggests it wasn’t really working in that capacity either. We suspect even the most loyal Stitch fan will not be sorry to see this attraction go.
We hope this space will be used for a really terrific Tomorrowland attraction at some point in the future. Unfortunately, this is unlikely to happen any time in the next 2-5 years.
Primeval Whirl
Primeval Whirl is another not-very-popular attraction that is now officially closed, per Disney’s recent announcement. Located in Dinoland at Animal Kingdom, Primeval Whirl is part of the “carnival” section of Dinoland. It’s very much an “off the shelf” attraction, similar to basic attractions you’d find at an actual carnival or very basic theme park. It certainly lacked any “Disney Magic”.
Much like Stitch’s Great Escape, Primeval Whirl has been mostly closed for the last couple of years. Disney opened Primeval Whirl occasionally, when crowds were especially high. We doubt there is a plan to replace Primeval Whirl. Likely, Disney just decided to close it permanently to reduce training and operating costs for a rarely used, unpopular attraction.
Rivers of Light
The announcement that Animal Kingdom’s nighttime show, Rivers of Light, would NOT be returning permanently was a surprise and a disappointment. Part of the Animal Kingdom expansion when Disney decided the park needed to be a full day “experience”, Rivers of Light was a unique nighttime show unlike anything else on Disney property.
Disney built a gorgeous waterside theater near the Finding Nemo the Musical theater to house Rivers of Light when it was designed. Because of the animals, nighttime entertainment at Animal Kingdom cannot include fireworks, explosions or loud pyrotechnics like we are used to seeing at most Disney nighttime shows.
Animal Kingdom’s Rivers of Light (Photo:Disney Parks)
Rivers of Light uses hauntingly beautiful music, stained glass floats, dancing waters and water projections to entertain. It’s a slower, quieter show, but very beautiful to look at and a nice way to unwind at the end of a busy day.
We are disappointed that Disney will not be bringing the show back, but we hope those beautiful floats and that theater will be used for SOMETHING in the future. Again, due to financial constraints, it is unlikely we will see anything for a few years. (SIGH).
Projects in Process
There are quite a few projects in process around Walt Disney World. Unfortunately, we don’t know the current status on most of these projects. We are assuming work is progressing, but we’ve had no announcements.
For example, the Ratatouille themed attraction originally slated to open in “Summer 2020” has not opened. The signs outside the attraction building that used to say “Summer 2020” have been removed. The attraction was in fairly good shape prior to the parks closing in March. We would have thought the attraction would be opening perhaps late summer or early fall at the latest, based on construction delays caused by Covid-19. However, Disney has not made any announcements or been talking about this attraction at all. We suspect that with the parks opened with limited capacity and the health crisis still looming, Disney has decided to save this attraction for when the parks are welcoming more guests, and they can generate positive buzz for the attraction. Just speculation on our part, but we think they may want a bigger “good news” announcement than they would likely get right now.
Space 220 Concept Art, Disney Parks
Similarly, Space 220 is a new table service restaurant, originally planned to open late 2019 and pushed back to Summer 2020. There has been no news on this restaurant for months, so we suspect it will not open this year. We hope to be wrong as we are very anxious to check this one out. Unfortunately, we doubt we are wrong.
Big Coming Attractions
The Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster and the Tron Lightcycle coaster ride are both projects scheduled for completion sometime in 2021. We’ve had no information on these, but hopefully they are still on track.
Tron Billboard, visible from Storybook Circus
We’ve also had no significant updates on the reconfiguring of EPCOT’s main entrance and future world. This is another project not expected to finish until sometime next year. This is a project that we think will be scaled WAY back from the original plans. It will be interesting to see what happens with this fairly massive project over the next 12 months.
Disney Attraction Closures: What About the PARKS???
The big question, of course, is will Walt Disney World close the parks again. We just don’t know the answer to that one. It is possible, especially considering how fast new cases are emerging in Florida every day. While we are confident that Disney will do everything in its power to keep from closing down, they also don’t want to jeopardize public health, their image or their bottom line. There are a lot of things that could (and should) factor into a decision to close the parks again. Hopefully, it will not become necessary. We will keep you posted as we learn more in the days ahead!
Are you upset or worried by any of the closures or postponements mentioned above? Please like this post and comment below.
Disney has released more information about the reopening of Walt Disney World. The big news today? Disney cancels ALL dining reservations through the end of the year.
Disney has also cancelled all Fast Pass reservations. For more information about Disney’s reopening plans, please check out this post. The plans submitted to Orange County have been approved, and Disney is on track to reopen on July 11, 2020.
Disney Cancels Dining Reservations
Disney has officially cancelled all dining reservations through the end of this year. This is a pretty significant indication that Disney does NOT expect theme park operations and capacity to return to normalcy any time this year.
For those of us planning to visit Disney later this year, the canceling of dining reservations may have a big impact on our trip plans.
In their statement, Disney has told us that the cancellations are due to social distancing requirements. They have said that when they reopen, restaurants will be limited in capacity.
Disney plans to reopen dining reservations with limited numbers “closer to when the parks reopen”. They are also shrinking the Advance Dining Reservations window from 180 days to 60 days. This seems to be an “until further notice” change.
Fast Pass+ Reservations Suspended
In addition, Disney has suspended the Fast Pass+ reservation system. Fast Passes will not be available for any attractions when the parks reopen on July 11, 2020. Any existing Fast Pass+ reservations will be automatically cancelled. Disney will use additional queue space to manage capacity and social distancing. Disney has not provided any information as to if and when the Fast Pass+ reservation system will be reinstated. Fast Pass+ information has already been removed from the My Disney Experience.
Extra Magic Hours Suspended
Disney has also decided to suspend Extra Magic Hours temporarily as the parks reopen. Again, we don’t know how long this will last. It may end up that Extra Magic Hours will be suspended briefly, and will return quickly. It’s also possible that Extra Magic Hours will be suspended through the end of the year.
Reservations for Tours and Other Experiences
Disney has also cancelled reservations for all behind the scenes tours and other experience that require reservations. Disney has indicated that some experiences will remain closed for the time being. Other experiences will be available with limited capacity. Reservations for these experiences will likely become available closer to the parks reopening. As with everything else, the situation is fluid and frequent changes are likely.
Ticket Sales and Hotel Reservations
All NEW ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations are temporarily paused. The priority right now for Disney is Guests with existing tickets and reservations. Guests that already have tickets and Annual Passholders will be able to make theme park reservations before new tickets are sold. There are no specific instructions yet on how those guests will be able to make their reservations. Disney has said they are going to be reaching out to those Guests soon to provide details.
New ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations will resume at some point. Disney has stated their initial priority is taking care of existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders. The parks will be reopening with limited capacity, so I’m not sure when exactly when new reservations will be available. I will update you as soon as I have more information.
Masks ARE Required
As we mentioned in our previous post about the parks reopening, face masks or coverings WILL be required for all theme park guests and Cast Members. They will also be required for all Guests and Cast Members in Resort public areas.
Disney themed face masks? Let’s go! Click the picture above.
Summary of All Changes
So, in short, visiting Walt Disney World this summer (and potentially, for the rest of the year) is going to look VERY different.
No character greetings–at least for now!
Face masks required
No Extra Magic Hours
Fast Pass+ system suspended
No fireworks
Nighttime spectaculars canceled
Social distancing
All dining reservations have been canceled
New reservation window of sixty days instead of 180 days
All reservations for tours and other experiences have been canceled
No character greetings
Playgrounds closed
No water play areas
“Makeover” experiences (Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo Boutique, for example) are canceled
Character greetings have been canceled. Character meals are most likely canceled, too. (Unconfirmed)
Disney is working with the CDC (Center for Disease Control) and other health experts to do everything they can to protect the health and safety of both Guests and Cast Members.
Should You Visit Disney This Year?
Of course, many of these changes are disappointing. If you’ve been looking forward to your trip all year (or longer!), canceling or postponing can be really sad. However, if you have a “first” trip planned during this time, I highly recommend you reschedule. So many of the experiences are going to be limited, I think you will be disappointed. If you are a frequent visitor, and know you’ll be visiting again next year, you may not be as disappointed by some of the “missing” features during this phased reopening time. Canceling or postponing can be a very difficult decision. If you need advice, or would like to talk it through with someone, please feel free to reach out. I’m here, and I understand. brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
All nighttime fireworks and spectaculars are canceled due to social distancing requirements
It is important to keep in mind that Disney is trying to keep everyone safe. If you have a trip booked, and want to cancel as a result of these changes, Disney is working with everyone to reschedule or offer refunds. Contact your travel agent or Disney to learn more.
Personally, I think with the reduced capacity and all the other changes, the best visitors during these early phases are going to be local Florida residents and Disney Annual Passholders. Likely to be frequent visitors, I think locals and Passholders will be less impacted by all the changes. They’ll also be less likely to feel disappointed or that they’re “missing out” on experiences that have been canceled for the time being.
What Can We Expect in 2021?
Information about next year and the impact of this pandemic on the theme parks in 2021 is pretty sparse. I suspect we will learn more as the theme parks reopen, and we see how Guests respond. In China, Guests have been very cooperative with Disney. Chinese Guests have responded well to new rules and restrictions. This has resulted in Shanghai Disneyland expanding capacity.
However, it is important to recognize that visitors to Disney World in Florida come from all over the world and from many different cultures. We don’t yet know if Guests in Florida will be as cooperative as those in China. We hope so, and we hope that we don’t see an increase in new Covid-19 cases as the parks reopen. This is going to be a “wait and see” situation.
Other Florida Theme Parks
Universal Theme Parks open next week, as does Legoland. Gatorland has already reopened. Sea World is reopening June 11, followed by Disney World on July 11. Busch Gardens in Tampa has submitted plans for reopening, which have been approved. No reopening date has been announced yet.
Hopefully, by mid August we will have more information on how the reopening plans are succeeding for all the Florida theme parks.
The good news is that all the theme parks ARE reopening. It will be different, but it is happening. Hopefully, as the months pass, things will return to something closer to normal for theme park visitors. It is time, I believe, to start planning our vacations for next year. If you need help, I am available! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
Great news today, everyone! Walt Disney World has presented their plan for reopening the parks in Florida to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force for approval. Pending that approval as well as state approval, Disney World is reopening July 11, 2020.
Disney World is NOT opening all at once, however. Like everything else, Disney World is going to reopen in phases.
Disney World’s Phased Reopening Approach
Initially, the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom will open on July 11, 2020. A few days later, July 15, 2020, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios will open.
Disney’s Magic Kingdom (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Disney is very focused on managing this reopening very carefully and more importantly, very responsibly. They’re going to significantly limit attendance and guest density throughout the parks, once they reopen.
A Very Different Theme Park Experience
It’s important that we adjust our expectations to a new theme park experience. Covid-19 unfortunately has not been eradicated, nor do we (yet) have a vaccine. So it is very important that we continue to be careful and prioritize our health and safety. Social distancing, washing your hands, and wearing face masks are going to continue to be very important–at least for the foreseeable future.
Cinderella Castle from Bay Lake Tower at Night (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Some of Disney’s trademark experiences that draw large crowds are NOT returning to normal operations until further notice. This means there will be no fireworks, parades, or nighttime spectaculars. This also means that experiences that are considered “high touch” experiences are also not returning at this time. This includes “makeover” experiences (think Bibbidi Bobbidi Doo), character meet and greets, water play areas and playgrounds.
To summarize, while the parks ARE reopening, the following experiences are NOT reopening during these early phases.
Parades
Character Meet and Greets
Fireworks and Nighttime Spectaculars
Makeover Experiences
Water Play Areas
Playgrounds
Linda & Brooke with Mickey & Minnie at Animal Kingdom (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)
Disney has not specifically mentioned popular stage shows that also draw crowds, like the Indiana Jones Stunt Show or Beauty and the Beast. I suspect those will either be limited or cancelled as well. It’s possible Disney is holding off decisions on these types of attractions until they get closer to opening the parks. I also think they may do limited seating to accommodate social distancing. Similar to ideas that have been floated for reopening movie theaters, Disney could close alternate rows, and suggest distance between families or groups. At this point we just don’t know.
Reservations for Park Entry
During this phased reopening of Disney World, Disney is going to require guest to make advance reservations to enter the park. This is how they intend to limit attendance at each park. They have not specifically stated how many guests will be allowed to enter each park once they are reopen; I suspect this is so they can test a variety of crowds as they see how things go. Initially, Shanghai Disney reopened with a capacity of 24,000 versus their normal capacity of 80,000.
While we don’t have official numbers, the Magic Kingdom has a max capacity of 100,000 people. (Personally, I find it pretty unpleasant any where NEAR that crowd level but different strokes for different folks!) I’m expecting that Disney will limit attendance at MK to 30,000 OR LESS during this first phase of reopening. Keep in mind, there are also THOUSANDS of cast members to support guests at the same time.
How to Make Reservations
Disney has not shared exactly HOW we are going to be able to make reservations for park entry. They HAVE indicated that guests with existing tickets and annual passholders will be able to make reservations for park entrance before the system will be opened up for new ticket sales.
Disney has temporarily halted new ticket sales and new resort reservations until they work through the existing and rescheduled reservations. Note: Disney Vacation Club members are the exception to this: they can still make resort reservations. Disney has indicated that they will be reaching out to existing ticket holders and annual passholders “soon” to discuss the process for making park reservations with them. The official statement says “more details about this new reservation system will be available soon”.
What Resorts are Reopening and When?
Disney has announced that Disney Vacation Club resorts in Orlando and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground are opening to guests June 22, 2020. In addition, Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida and Hilton Head, South Carolina are opening to guests beginning June 15, 2020. These resorts are reopening with new safety and cleanliness protocols in place. In addition, plans to support social distancing and enhanced cleaning measures are in place, according to Disney.
Old Key West Resort (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
At this time, Disney has not announced when additional resorts will be opening. My prediction is that they will roll out additional resorts as they gradually increase attendance thresholds at the parks. I’m sure there will be a lot of training for cast members at each resort as they prepare for reopening.
Will I Have to Wear a Mask?
Disney is putting various measures in place to protect health and safety of both guests and cast members as Disney World prepares to reopen July 11, 2020.
All guests over the age of three and all cast members will be required to wear face coverings inside the theme parks and in public areas of the resorts. On the upside, Disney is selling really cute face masks (of course!) at shopDisney.com now for pre-order. Check them out below. I mean, if you have to wear one, they might as well be adorable, right?
Disney themed face masks? Let’s go! Click the picture above.Star Wars themed face masks! Click the image above!Toy Story themed face masks at shopdisney.com. Please click the picture above!
In addition, both guests and cast members will be required to undergo temperature checks prior to entering a theme park. Disney already has the temperature check system in place for guests entering Disney Springs.
Disney is also recommending cashless transactions whenever possible, encouraging guests to plan on using their magic bands or credit cards to minimize the handling or exchange of (potentially bacteria carrying) cash.
High traffic areas will get additional cleaning and disinfection procedures with higher frequency than other areas. Disney has also stated that procedures will be reviewed and updated frequently as we all get used to the new normal.
What Does it All Mean?
So, the good news: Disney World is reopening July 11, 2020. The not-as-good news is that things are going to be different. But let’s face it. There are a LOT of things in our lives that are going to be different going forward. Perhaps permanently different.
Disney has stated that the phased opening at Shanghai Disneyland has been going very well, and that they are encouraged by the guest response there. Let’s hope guests in Orlando will be as cooperative and understanding.
Disney continues to work with the CDC and other health officials to implement best practices for reopening. I suspect this will be an evolving situation as time goes on, and we all have a chance to see the impact that reopening has on our citizenry. Hopefully, we are going to continue the number of new cases shrink as life gradually returns to normal. However, it is important to recognize that public safety is critical, and should we see a surge in new cases, it is entirely possible that Disney will have to close again.
We’re All in This Together
It is vital that any guests intending to visit the parks in the next couple of months (and perhaps longer still) are prepared to wear masks, practice social distancing, wash their hands frequently and get their temperatures checked.
It is also important that guests weigh their desire to visit the parks against the potential risks to their own health, and the health of others. Finally, it is critical to understand that some experiences will NOT be happening for the first few weeks and months the parks are open. If those changes are going to make you unhappy, or cause you to question the expense, I recommend you reschedule your trip for later in the year or even to next year.
We must all work together to help this phased reopening of Disney and the rest of our country be successful. We must be respectful of the new safety protocols in place for the protection of EVERYONE. Wearing a mask in the Florida heat this summer may not be fun, but it may also help to save lives. I, for one, think that’s a small price to prevent other people getting sick, or even worse.
What We Don’t Know
There’s still a lot we DON’T know, and I expect information will become available in the weeks to come. I know I still have questions about dining and transportation. Are you wondering about Fast Passes and the virtual queue for Rise of the Resistance? I’d like to know about shows and the stretching room at the Haunted Mansion. I bet you are wondering about the new Space 220 restaurant at EPCOT and all the other construction projects in progress.
Lots of questions, and very few answers. I’m excited Disney is opening, and I’m anxious to see what’s to come!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. ShopDisney.com is having a great summer sale right now. If you’re jonesing for a little Disney magic, check it out!
Full disclosure: I am a shopDisney.com affiliate. If you visit shopDisney.com using one of my links, and your purchase results in a purchase, I will earn a small commission. This does NOT cost you anything. Thank you!
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!
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?
The good news? Disney has recognized that the near constant high volume of crowds has dampened some fans’ enthusiasm for Disney’s beloved theme parks. Over the last couple of years, Disney has piloted a few different ideas to offer visitors the opportunity to visit their favorite park or parks with significantly lower crowds, and the “After Hours” events seem to have won the battle, at least for the short term, as Disney has recently announced a slew of new Disney After Hours Events dates for 2019.
The bad news? Disney has also recognized that many fans are willing to pay a premium for that “lower crowd level” experience. Based on Disney’s raging success with the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties, Disney already had a fairly good idea that some guests would be willing to purchase an extra ticket to attend a “special event” at the Magic Kingdom–but they weren’t sure if that willingness would extend beyond special holiday themed parties or beyond the Magic Kingdom.
Last year, Disney tried several experimental “After Hours” events, with varying degrees of success. Early reviews from attendees raved about the low crowd levels, and being able to walk on favorite rides (something I remember from the early days of the MVMCP and MNSSHP, too) and taking pictures of an almost empty park near the end of the night… But those events were very limited, not publicized a great deal, and in many cases, priced significantly lower than these new offerings.
In the current round of After Hours events, there are dates scheduled through April 2019, and events are being held at three of the four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.
Here’s a video Disney has released from a recent Disney After Hours Event at Animal Kingdom:
The Bottom Line: What Does An After Hours Event Cost?
Tickets for each Disney After Hours Event are $125 per person + tax if purchased in advance. Tickets purchased the day of the event will be $129 per person + tax. Discounts are available for Annual Passholders and DVC Members. Contact me for more information.
Technically, this is officially a three hour event. The event begins when the regular park day “ends” and runs for three hours after that. Guests without After Hours event tickets will not be permitted to enjoy the After Hours events or attractions.
What’s Included in my Disney After Hours Event Ticket?
Enjoy the parks after dark with an After Hours event ticket!
There is some really good news about these events, in addition to the lower crowds and easy access to your favorite rides.
Ice Cream, popcorn and select beverages are included in your Disney After Hours Event Ticket. (Most likely “beverages” is limited to soft drinks).
Your After Hours event ticket will grant you access to the park where your event takes place as early as 7 pm–so if your park “closes” at 11 pm that day, that’s an extra four hours of park time you’ll be able to enjoy on your park ticket, in addition to the three hours of “After Hours” event time. BUT, there are some event days where the park closes at 8 pm, so you’ll only be getting 1 extra hour. It’s important to consider the total amount of time you’ll have in the park when determining if this ticket will have value for you and your family.
Character Greetings with little or no lines! If you are a person who enjoys Character Greetings, but hates sacrificing valuable park time to stand in lines for Characters, you may really enjoy the short lines or no lines to be found at the Character Greetings at After Hours events.
There are usually some “special” After Hours “experiences, including Dance Parties, unique Character Greetings or Streetmosphere.
Some quick service places will be open during each party, so you will have some options for late night dining if you are so inclined.
Generally speaking as these events run pretty late into the night, there will be fewer very young children and strollers in the mix. These events are not being actively marketed as adults only, but there are no discounts for children ages 3-9, which is a fairly good indicator that Disney does not expect much participation from that age group.
With some proper planning, you can sleep in the day of the event and have a mostly “lazy day” and not spend a “park ticket” day on the day of the event, enter the park at 7 pm and stay until the party ends to maximize your value. If you’re an annual passholder, this doesn’t really help, but if you’re purchasing park passes or a package, you could theoretically, reduce your ticket package by one day.
If you are someone who struggles with large crowds or too much overstimulation from all the noise associated with the crazy mid day crowds, you may discover the later night lighter crowds are much more comfortable for you.
What Dates Are Available?
Animal Kingdom: January 8, 16, 22 and 31, 2019; and February 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 26, 2019; and March 5, 20 and 27, 2019; and April 3, 2019.
Magic Kingdom: The event takes place from 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM on the following dates: March 21 and 28, 2019; and April 4 and 11, 2019.
The event takes place from 9:00 PM to midnight on the following dates: February 14 and 21, 2019 and March 7, 2019.
The event takes place from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM on the following dates: January 7, 17, 24, and 28, 2019; February 7 and 28, 2019.
Hollywood Studios: January 5, 12 and 19, 2019; February 2, 9 and 16, 2019; March 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2019; and April 6 and 13, 2019.
Disney After Hours Events: Are They Worth It?
Short answer? It depends. You’ve heard me say it before, and I’m sure you will hear me say it again–everything is relative, based on what is important to you and your family or travel group. It also depends on your financial situation, and what kind of park ticket or vacation package you’ve purchased.
For me personally, lower crowds and shorter lines are becoming a higher priority. Having a day to sleep late on vacation? That might also be a nice change. I’m not sure it’s worth $125, though.
I love the idea of getting more pictures without hundreds of strangers in them, especially for the blog. And I would like to attend a couple of parties as the year goes on to see what changes Disney makes. I’m just not sure 3 hours is enough time to really justify the expense. I feel that three hours with light crowds is probably enough time (although for me personally…10 hours would probably never be enough, much to my poor husband’s chagrin!), but I think $125 is a pretty high price for three hours. Of course, that’s probably the point. If it was affordable for everyone, you wouldn’t have the lighter crowds and shorter lines they’re promising. So they don’t WANT to sell this to everyone. They want to sell this to a few thousand people for each party and that’s it.
I think for me personally, it would be worth it. At least so I can report back to all of you! 😉
What do you think? Do you think Disney After Hours Events would be worth it for you and your family? Are you anxious to attend one? Please comment below, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
P.S. If you are interested in booking tickets for a Disney After Hours Event, I can book them for you. We can add them to an existing package, look for discounts, and/or book them all on their own. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com to get started.
Do you have a favorite nighttime show that you MUST SEE every trip? For Frank and I, it was always Wishes. While we enjoy Happily Ever After a lot, I’m not having quite the same emotional response to it that I used to have with Wishes…but I suspect that may come in time…Happily Ever After is SO spectacular and there is SO much going on…I think my brain stays super active, and my heart just doesn’t have time to catch up!
I also have a soft spot for Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, and am sad that I most likely won’t be seeing it before that show is over forever to make way for whatever the next extravaganza will be…
I have seen Rivers of Light at Animal Kingdom several times now, and I really like it. It’s different from the other shows, but really pretty.
And of course, Fantasmic. I’ve always loved that one…but it occurs to me I haven’t made time for it in a few years….Hmmmm….Maybe next trip….
Check out the video below for Disney’s brief summary of the nighttime shows at Walt Disney World currently:
Which show is a MUST NOT MISS? Or would you rather ride attractions during the shows, or get to bed early to be raring to go for the next day? I’d love to hear what your approach is to nighttime entertainment!
