It’s been a long time since we’ve heard Ariel sing “Part of Your World” At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but it looks like “The Little Mermaid” may be returning at long last !
After Walt Disney World reopened after the closure in 2020 due to the pandemic, shows were among the last things to reappear. In many cases, the show that reopened was a downsized version–for example, the fabulous Festival of the Lion King show at Animal Kingdom reopened in May 2021 as “Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King”. This initial reopening emphasized social distancing, both in the audience and among the performers. The show was about 10 minutes shorter than the original show, and was missing some key elements–like the tumble monkeys.
Festival of the Lion King (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Most shows eventually returned the parks, and for the most, order was restored to the Kingdom.
The Voyage of the Little Mermaid
There was one show that never reopened after the pandemic–The Voyage of The Little Mermaid at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Voyage of The Little Mermaid opened in January 1992. This show was a mixture of puppetry and actors, along with some special effects. It was a 25 minute show and told a shortened version of The Little Mermaid movie. It featured each song from the movie and it was very popular for many years. By the mid-aughts, it was apparent that the show needed to be updated. Nevertheless, the show still drew crowds and was a fun way to spend 25 minutes.
Outside the Voyage of the Little Mermaid theater. Photo: Brooke Hudson
As the years passed post-pandemic and this show didn’t reopen, speculation began to run rampant. Maybe Disney would revamp the show. Maybe they’d replace the show with a totally different show. The theater remained in place, with no signs of life. The Voyage of The Little Mermaid marquis sign stayed in place, giving hope that the show would one day return.
There was a gift shop attached to the theater that also never reopened–and we know Disney never misses an opportunity to fill a gift shop with merchandise guaranteed trigger the “I WANT” button in small children and adults as they exit an attraction that pushed emotional or nostalgia buttons! But year after year, the shop has remained closed.
At last, it appears that The Little Mermaid is returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
Walt Disney World has announced “The Little Mermaid -A Musical Adventure” is coming to the newly refreshed theater in the Animation Courtyard in Fall 2024. Disney tells us that “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will be a fully reimagined musical production inspired by the classic Disney movie, “The Little Mermaid”. It seems clear from the description that this is not a revamp of the original Voyage of the Little Mermaid show, but rather a completely new show in the same theater. Disney promises new set pieces, cutting edge effects and a bold new design. Disney Live Entertainment tells us they’ve been looking for innovative ways to tell the story of Ariel’s journey to the human world.
Photo: Disney Animation
The show will feature favorite songs from the classic film, like “Part of Your World” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls”. Disney has released concept art for the new “Kiss the Girl” scene.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
This is the only concept art they’ve released so far, and the information we have so far is pretty limited. We don’t yet know how long the show will be, or if this will all be live action actors like “The Beauty and the Beast” show that has been playing for years at the Theater of the Stars on Sunset Boulevard. Alternatively, it could be a mixture of live actors and animatronics or animation.
From the references to “classic”, I’m assuming this version of “The Little Mermaid” will lean heavily on the 1989 animated Disney film, “The Little Mermaid”. But COULD they be drawing anything in from the 2023 live action remake? Or from “The Little Mermaid” on Broadway? Anything is possible. I will be sure to keep you posted as new information becomes available.
Photo: Disney Studios
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that ANY new show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is good news. That park has long needed some additional entertainment options, and adding “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” is definitely a step in the right direction. Hollywood Studios has become fairly ride heavy in the last few years, and while we all love the rides, the entertainment was always a big part of what made Hollywood Studios so special. There are still many entertainment experiences that have never returned to the park post pandemic, and I think the losses are felt throughout the day when you visit Hollywood Studios today.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ amazing Streetmosphere players (Citizens of Hollywood) (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Missing Entertainment
For example, the streetmosphere actors that used to perform little skits involving the crowd are a giant loss. They were clever and very funny, and did a great job at involving crowd members in their little vignettes.
Another loss has been the Jedi Training Academy. Each one of these shows would involve 8-12 kids from the audience that would participate and practice with light sabers and learn the ways of the Jedi. Each show would feature a visit from a villain, like Darth Vader or Darth Maul, and the shows were entertaining and fun for both the participants and the audience members.
I hope that this new show, “The Little Mermaid-A musical Adventure” is just the first addition of shows and entertainment back in to Hollywood Studios.
What do you think? Are you excited to see Ariel’s return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Please comment below and let us know if there are other entertainment ideas you’d like to see come to life at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. – Are you planning to visit Walt Disney World in 2024? I’d love to help. Contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a no obligation quote.
P.P.S. – Check out our review of Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ newest table service restaurant, Round-Up Rodeo here.
It’s time for another Festival update for EPCOT. The next big Festival at EPCOT will be the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. The 2024 International Festival of the Arts will begin January 12 and run until February 19. EPCOT’s shortest Festival of the year, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts packs a lot of punch in a short period of time!
Photo: Disney Parks
We’ve talked before about the amazing Festivals held throughout the year at EPCOT. At this point, there are only a few weeks out of the entire year where there ISN’T a Festival of some kind going on!! My personal favorite, the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival starts in early spring and now runs through mid-summer. Almost immediately after Flower & Garden, the International Food & Wine Festival begins and runs through November each year. The Food & Wine Festival is a VERY popular Festival (and rightly so!) and has been getting longer every year. Just a few days after the end of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays begins. The 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays ends on December 30, 2023.
What is the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts?
The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts highlights the visual, culinary, and performing arts in the over-the-top way that we’ve all come to expect from Walt Disney World.
EPCOT becomes drenched in colors, and the honorary mascot of the Festival is always our imagination inspiration leader, Figment (one of my very favorite characters!).
Disney on Broadway Concert Series
One of the highlights every year of the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is the annual Disney on Broadway Concert Series. This Concert Series features a bevy of stars from various Disney shows on Broadway.
Photo: Disney Parks
During the Festival, there will be three shows per day at the American Gardens Theater featuring your favorite hits from Disney’s many Broadway shows. Daily showtimes are: 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm and 8:00 pm.
This year, “for the first time in forever”, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series will feature two stars from a VERY popular ICY Disney Broadway show on stage together.
Caissie Levy and Patti Murin from Disney’s FROZEN on Broadway Photo: Disney Parks
Disney on Broadway Concert Series Lineup:
Caissie Levy and Patti Murin (“Frozen”): Jan. 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23
Heidi Blickenstaff (“Freaky Friday” and “The Little Mermaid”) and Gavin Lee (“Mary Poppins” and “Beauty and the Beast”): Jan. 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 24
Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins” and “Beauty and the Beast”) and L. Steven Taylor (“The Lion King”): Jan. 26, 28 and 29; Feb. 1, 3, 5 and 6
Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King”) and Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”): Jan. 27, 30, 31; Feb. 2, 4, 7 and 8
Mandy Gonzalez (“Aida”) and Michael James Scott (“Aladdin” and “Tarzan”): Feb. 9, 11, 12, 15, 18, 19
Bradley Gibson (“Hercules” and “The Lion King”) and Shoba Narayan (“Aladdin”): Feb. 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19 *
*Entertainment is subject to change without notice.
Disney on Broadway Dining Packages
If you plan to attend one of the Disney on Broadway Concert Series Shows, you will need to plan on lining up well before show time if you’d like a seat in the American Gardens Theater for the show. Many of the stars performing this year are VERY popular, and will likely draw larger than usual crowds–which will mean lining up earlier and standing in line longer.
One way to avoid the long lines for these shows is to purchase one of the Disney on Broadway Dining Packages. These packages go on sale December 19, 2023. This year, there are eight EPCOT restaurants participating in the Disney on Broadway Dining Packages.
With your Disney on Broadway Dining Package, you are guaranteed seating for the show in your package! Here’s what else is included:
For Spice Road Table: 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter and a nonalcoholic beverage
For all other participating restaurants: An appetizer, entrée and dessert—or one full buffet/family-style meal (where applicable)—as well as a nonalcoholic beverage
Here are the participating restaurants, along with the pricing for their Disney on Broadway Dining Package. Note: Pricing does NOT include tax or gratuity.
Advance reservations are highly recommended for the Disney on Broadway Dining Packages–especially this year, with so many popular stars performing. Reservations can be made starting December 19, 2023.
Same Day Reservations
Planning a last minute visit for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts? You MAY be able to score a same day Disney on Broadway Dining Package. Depending Ion availability, you can purchase a same day package:
Enjoy guaranteed seats to a DISNEY ON BROADWAY concert later that day
To check availability for same-day dining packages, visit Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue on the day you wish to attend a Disney on Broadway show. Packages are subject to availability and may not be available on peak dates.
Food Studios
A hallmark of almost every EPCOT Festival are the special “available-during-the-festival-only” food booths. These food booths (called “studios” for the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts) are always themed for each Festival. There are more than 15 Food Studios for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.
Photo: Disney Parks
The EPCOT chefs add an artistic twist to the offerings at the Food Studios at the International Festival of the Arts. There are tempting new dishes and drinks to savor this year.
Figment’s Inspiration Station Photo: Disney Parks
The Rainbow Cake with freeze-dried SKITTLES® bite-sized candies is always a sweet sensation at Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey: Art, Food and Little Sparks of Magic. And don’t miss the Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with parsnip puree, broccolini, baby tomatoes and balsamic glaze at Pastoral Palate.
Pastoral Palate Photo: Disney Parks
Another culinary highlight of the Festival is the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine. This fun food stroll highlights yummy sweet and savory offerings in all the colors of the rainbow. You also have the option to complete A Journey to Savor. There are seven available options, but it only takes five out of seven treats to receive a extra special food item.
Photo: Disney Parks
The handy Festival Passport will show where to make picturesque purchases and receive stamps. Once guests have collected five stamps, bring the passport to Deco Delights Food Studio to receive a complimentary surprise.
The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine can be completed at your leisure – you can try a new treat every time you visit throughout the Festival.
Bring out Your Inner Artist
There are lots of opportunities for you to let your inner artist come out to play. Every day at the American Gardens Theater at 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm, you can attend the Animation Academy and learn how to draw a Disney character from some of the best animators available.
Photo: Disney Parks
Every day on the bridge to World Showcase Plaza from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, the youngest members of your travel group can create their very on chalk masterpieces at Kid’s Chalk Art.
Photo: Disney Parks
Have you ever wanted to paint a mural? You’ll get your chance at Expression Section: A Paint by Numbers Mural. You’ll join with other artists to leave a creative mark on a larger-than-life wall mural.
Photo: Disney Parks
And what would a visit to the festival be without artful photo ops? From Botticelli to Renoir, there are life-size tableaus invite you to become part of the painting.
Photo: Disney Parks
PhotoPass Magic Shots
There are also limited edition special Magic Shots through PhotoPass, only available at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.
PhotoPass Magic Shots Photo: Disney PhotoPass
Visual Galleries
One of the highlights of every EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is the myriad of artist galleries throughout EPCOT. You will have the opportunity to view beautiful artwork and meet the artists as you tour the galleries. New and returning favorites will be part of this year’s lineup, so be sure to visit ArtfulEPCOT.com to stay up to date on the latest news.
Photo: Disney Parks
Festival Merchandise
And, of course, what would any Festival be without limited edition Festival specific merchandise. The 2024 International Festival of the Arts will be no exception. Check out just a few selections of the merchandise available at the upcoming Festival.
2024 International Festival of the Arts Merchandise Photo: Disney Parks
The best thing about the Festival merchandise for the International Festival of the Arts? FIGMENT! Since Figment is the official Ambassador for the Festival, he is usually front and center on most Festival merchandise.
Shopping and Snacking Made Easy
A great way to make snacking around the world OR shopping around the world is the Disney gift card on a wrist band.
Photo: Disney Parks
These great little wristband gift cards are also a great way to give your kids their souvenir budget or snack money in a contained, manageable way.
Will Your Inner Artist be Visiting the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts?
This Festival looks and sounds pretty terrific, doesn’t it? Are you ready to plan your trip? Does the thought of being able to paint a mural or learn to draw a Disney character have you wanting to grab the first available flight in late January? Please comment below!
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S.: Did you know the Disney Dining Plan is finally back and available for 2024 Disney vacations? Contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for more information or to book your 2024 trip now!
“Into every life some rain must fall.” — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
When planning your Walt Disney World vacation, you are usually planning for fun-filled sunny days. But what if all your vacation days don’t end up being sunny? What should you do when it rains on your Disney vacation?
Photo: Brooke Hudson
Mindset: It’s NOT the end of the World
I promise, no matter how hard it rains, your vacation doesn’t need to be ruined. It is important to plan ahead for rainy days just in case they show up on your vacation. It is even more important to have the right attitude about a rainy day. If everyone gets all gloom and doom about a rainy day, then you will all be correct–you won’t have any fun, and it will be a no-good terrible very bad day.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
However, if you have a plan AND maintain a positive “we are going to have fun no matter what” attitude, you may find some of your favorite vacation memories happen on your rainy day(s).
What are the odds it will rain on your Disney vacation?
It’s always a good idea to check the weather for the Orlando area for the week of your trip before you leave home. We’ve been surprised a few times by much colder temperatures or a lot more rain than we expected. Forewarned is forearmed. If you know it’s going to be cold at night during your trip, you can plan ahead for that and pack a sweatshirt.
It’s also a good idea to check the weather in recent years for the time period you are going. For example, if you are traveling to Florida in April, you might check and see how much rain the Disney World area traditionally gets in April (2.72 inches, some rain on an average of 16 days).
Rainy Season
The months that get the most rain at Walt Disney World are June, July, August and September. This is considered “rainy season”. Hurricane season runs from June through November.
If you are traveling any time during rainy season, you can expect at least SOME rain most days. Torrential downpours that last all day are not common, but they do happen.
Regardless of when you travel, the odds are good that you could have rain on at least one day of your Disney vacation.
Be PREPARED for Rain on your Disney Vacation
One of the best things you can do to set your family up for fun rainy days is to be prepared! There are few low – cost items you can add to your park bag to help you stay reasonably dry and minimize the impact on your park fun.
Rain Ponchos
The single most important investment you can make to prevent rainy day misery when it rains on your Disney vacation are rain ponchos. On rainy days, you will see rain ponchos for sale at every shop around Disney property. The problem with waiting to buy a poncho until you need it is that a) you are usually already pretty soaked by the time you get into a shop to buy a poncho b) you are stuck paying Disney Parks prices for your ponchos and c) occasionally you end up at the one store that sold out of ponchos 10 minutes ago.
Rain Panchos
It’s best to pack your own ponchos in your daily park bag so that as soon as it starts to rain, you can put them on and minimize your risk of getting soaked. Bonus: wearing ponchos on rides like Kali River Rapids will help you stay dry when everyone else in your boat gets drenched.
Where to Find Ponchos?
There are tons of different ponchos you can get before your trip. You can buy them at the Dollar Store or at Sporting Goods stores or even on Amazon.
For example, if you have a big group and need lots of ponchos, you may want to consider something like this:
These are thinner than the Disney ponchos, but the whole package of eight ponchos–4 adult and 4 children sized ponchos– are only $15.99. These are also packaged up very small and are very lightweight.
Here’s a 10 pack of clear, lightweight and easy to pack rain ponchos. The 10-pack is $15.99, so about $1.59 per poncho. That’s pretty tough to beat. But keep in mind these are very thin and lightweight. They are intended primarily for one time use. If you are careful not to tear them, you may be able to get multiple uses out of one poncho, but most likely, you will want to have a few extras in case it rains multiple days on your trip and you are unable to reuse your first poncho.
This poncho is a little heavier weight than the one time use ponchos shown above. It can be re-folded and stored until the next time you need it, as long as you are careful while wearing it and when you take it off. This particular poncho is fairly similar to what you would be able to buy inside the parks. They are usually just big rectangles with hoods, with a couple of snaps under each arm to hold the sides together.
We bought a few of this style several years ago and have been able to reuse them on multiple trips. This particular poncho is priced slightly more affordable than Disney’s at $12.49 but it’s not a big savings. The advantage with buying ahead is that your family will already have ponchos when it starts to rain on your Disney vacation.
Backpack Covers
If you or someone else in your group carries a backpack as your park bag, you may want to consider carrying a backpack cover in case of rain. While a large poncho can usually go over your backpack as well, you may want stronger protection for your backpack, in case it doesn’t completely fit under your poncho or in case you want to carry it outside of your poncho.
These waterproof backpack covers come in a variety of colors and sizes. Prices range from $9.99 – $11.99, based on the size. Quick and easy to use, I really like the security of being able to protect my park backpack.
Extra Shoes and Socks
If you are traveling to Disney during rainy season, I recommend you bring at least 2 pairs of whatever shoes you are planning to wear to the parks. That way, if your first pair of shoes get soaked, you can let them dry at least 24 hours before wearing them again. Just wear your second set of park shoes the next day. If you are staying at a Deluxe Resort, you will most likely have access to a washer and dryer, so drying your shoes in the driver may be an option for you–but if there is a time crunch, or you just don’t want to bother with drying them in a dryer, you’ll be glad you have that second pair of shoes. I usually carry an extra pair of dry socks in my park bag if I’m expecting a rainy day. As long as your feet can be warm and dry, you will generally be fairly comfortable.
Phone Protectors
Another rainy day tool that can be really helpful can also do double duty if you are visiting a water park or planning some pool time is a waterproof protector for your phone.
We originally purchased these to protect our phones on lake weekends. Later we discovered that they were super useful for Disney water parks and water rides at the theme parks. They’re also super helpful on really rainy days.
What can you do when it RAINS on your Disney Vacation?
If you are prepared for the rain, there is no reason for the rain to interrupt your theme park plans. Fun fact: attraction lines tend to be much shorter on rainy days because travelers unprepared for the rain often leave and return to their resort, leaving the theme parks wide open to those of us made of sturdier stock.
On some rainy days at the Magic Kingdom, Disney will send out the Rainy Day Parade. You can only ever see this parade on a rainy day, so you can consider yourselves very lucky if you happen to see it live and in person.
Rainy Day Parade Photo: Brooke Hudson
Fireworks
Disney doesn’t cancel their nightly fireworks shows very often. Unless there is lightning or very high winds, the fireworks shows tend to go off no matter what. We have watched the fireworks in the rain many times. If you have a good poncho, you can sometimes get some great fireworks viewing spots out in the center while those that want to stay out of the rain crowd under the trees or awnings where they are available.
Fireworks in a Downpour Photo: Brooke Hudson
During last May’s mother – daughter trip, I didn’t take my own advice and we did not pack our ponchos. It started pouring while we were having dinner. It stopped briefly after dinner and we made our way towards the front of the castle for fireworks viewing–and the skies opened up on us. We found a little shelter under a tree but we still pretty much got soaked during the fireworks show.
Crowds Thin Out After the Rain
After the Rain Photo: Brooke Hudson
After the fireworks, most people left the park because of the heavy rain, which stopped about 30 minutes later. We were freezing so we bought a couple of very expensive sweatshirts. (Again, I hadn’t taken my own advice and brought one in my park bag!) We used the hand dryers in the ladies bathroom to try and dry our skorts off a little bit because the rain water kept running down our legs! It was pretty funny, honestly–and a memory I know we will never forget.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
And the best part? All the rides were pretty much walk ons the rest of the night.
Short Lines and Shopping
Rainy days are great days to ride attractions with shorter lines. Many visitors decide to wait out the rain and either leave the theme parks altogether or hang out in covered areas hoping the rain will stop.
Having the PeopleMover mostly to ourselves after the rain Photo: Brooke Hudson
This means shorter lines for everyone willing to venture out into the rain. The harder the rain, the shorter the line! Keep in mind that some outdoor rides may be shut down during a heavy rain–but most rides keep running, regardless of the rain.
We’ve ridden Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in the pouring rain. I don’t know if you can tell in this picture, but it’s raining pretty hard on us here.
Photo: Disney PhotoPass
If you’d prefer to stay out of the rain, there are lots of shops to help you stay dry. For some of us with family members that don’t really allow us time to visit the gift shops, a rainy day can be a great advantage. If your family doesn’t want to play in the rain, you can spend a lot of time playing in the stores.
Will you let a little rain ruin your Disney Vacation?
As I said at the top of this post, a little rain is likely to fall at some point during many Disney vacations. For some Disney visitors, rain on their vacation is catastrophic. But it’s important to remember, rain doesn’t not HAVE to ruin your vacation or even your afternoon.
All you need to do is be prepared for a rainy day and manage your mindset. You can have as much fun as you WANT to have. Let the kids splash in the puddles. Play in the rain. Ride all the rides with short lines.
Whatever you do, decide that you can have a great day at Disney no matter what the conditions.
What do you think? Do you think you can make rainy day fun at Disney?
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. Another bummer on your Disney vacation is aching legs and feet. Did you know that you will walk an AVERAGE of FIVE miles per day during your Disney theme park vacation? Read here to learn how to prepare.
One question we hear a lot from clients, friends and family is “Should I rent a car for my Disney vacation?” This question sparks heated debate among faithful Disney parks fans all over the world. Some people insist no car rental is necessary at Disney due to all the free Disney transportation (as long as you stay on Disney property). Others wouldn’t dream of visiting Disney World without renting a car. So what is the right answer for you?
As with most things about the “perfect” Disney vacation, the answer depends on what’s important to YOU. A Disney World vacation IS a vacation where you can rely on free or economical transportation for most everything–having a car on your Disney vacation is NOT a requirement.
Where are you Staying?
One of the quickest resolutions to the “Should I rent a car for my Disney vacation?” question is if you are staying on Disney property or not. If you are not staying on Disney property, it is a lot more likely that you might want to rent a car.
Staying Off Disney Property
While many of the hotels and resorts do offer shuttle service to Disney parks, you may prefer to travel on your own schedule and have the freedom to leave the parks and return to your resort on your timeline, not theirs. Most of the off-site properties don’t offer unlimited or frequent transportation to and from Disney. Usually, there are a few timeslots in the morning, some in the afternoon and some in the evening. But it varies a lot, depending on the resort you are staying at. If you’d prefer NOT to rent a car, make sure you check with your resort before your trip about what options they offer to get you to the parks–or what they don’t offer, as the case may be.
If you are staying at an Air BnB or a bit farther from Disney, you will need to find your own way to the Disney parks. Orlando has a thriving Lyft/Uber community, and using Lyft or Uber as your vacation transportation is VERY doable for your Disney vacation–but it can get pretty pricey, especially if you are more than a few miles outside of Disney.
Generally, I recommend guests staying off Disney property rent a car for the convenience factor. However, it is possible to stay off property and NOT rent a car. Note: Many non-Disney owned hotels charge for parking. Make sure you know if you’ll need to pay for parking and how much. Also, Disney will charge you to park your rental car at the theme parks if you are not an Annual Passholder or DVC Member. Be sure to take that extra cost into consideration because $25 per day adds up super fast, and can really inflate the cost to rent a of renting a car.
Staying on Disney Property
One of the benefits of staying at a Walt Disney World resort is that Disney provides transportation from your resort to each of the four theme parks and Disney Springs absolutely free. If you are staying on Disney property, a strong case can be made that you don’t NEED a car for your Disney vacation.
Magical Express
If have done any research for your Disney vacation, you may have heard about Magical Express. Magical Express was a terrific service that Disney used to offer to resort guests that provide free bus transport from Orlando International Airport directly to your resort. It was very popular with many guests over the years, but Disney ended the service in 2022.
Photo: Disney Parks
Mears Transportation
Mears Transportation is the company that used to provide the Magical Express service on behalf of Disney. They still offer transportation via bus from the Orlando airport to your Disney resort–it’s just not called “Magical Express” any more and it’s no longer free. The service is now called Mears Connect, and it serves multiple resorts, not just Disney. Prices are currently $13 per child and $16 per adult. Advance reservations are required, but are easy to make from your phone or computer. Learn more or make reservations at Mears Transportation.
Photo: Mears Transportation
Keep in mind that the prices above are per person and are for one way trips. They are also subject to change without notice. Those with larger groups may find it more economical to take an Uber or Lyft from the airport to their resort. We’ve done this a few times, and the total cost with tip has been between $30 and $45, depending on traffic and the tip.
Is Your Trip All About Disney or Will You Visit Other Tourist Destinations?
Another important consideration for those asking the “Should I rent a car for my Disney vacation?” question is whether their vacation is exclusively all about Disney. If your family or group wants to also visit Universal Studios or LegoLand; if they want to go visit the outlet malls; if they want to go see the mermaids at Weeki Wachee State Park; you are much more likely to need a rental car for your vacation. That is not to say you cannot do all of these things if you DON’T have a car–you absolutely can do it if you are determined. But visiting multiple unrelated destinations is much easier if you have your own car.
Photo: Weeki Wachee Calendar
Combining Disney and Universal Studios
Surprisingly, it is pretty easy to visit both Disney World and Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure in the same vacation without renting a car. At Universal, both parks are within walking distance of each other and they are also in walking distance or a short water taxi ride from many of the Universal resorts.
Both Disney and Universal offer shuttle service from one resort to the other. I recommend you plan in advance if you want to use this, and make your reservations early. Prices range from $35-$50 per person, depending on whether you are purchasing them in a package with Universal park tickets (or Disney park tickets if you are starting at Universal.)
Photo: Universal Parks
Much like hotel shuttles, the shuttles between Universal and Disney usually run on a specific time schedule. Depending on the number of guests with reservations, your shuttle might be a small van or it could be a full size coach bus. The trip between the two resorts takes about thirty minutes–more if multiple pickups or drop-offs are involved. Make sure you allow for extra time when you are planning for this.
If you don’t want to take advantage of the Disney or Universal shuttles, Uber or Lyft is also a great option. We’ve never had to wait more than about 15 minutes for an Uber or Lyft on Disney property. Note: We have waited longer than 15 minutes at both the airport and Disney Springs. Traffic and demand have a BIG impact on wait times in both apps.
So, do you need a rental car if you are staying at Disney but also want to visit Universal? No, you don’t. But having a rental car does make it a lot easier and more convenient, that’s for sure. You can travel on your own schedule, and you don’t have to stop at other resorts to pick up other travelers.
Shopping
What if you like to go shopping on your vacation? Should you get a rental car for your Disney vacation if you like to shop? Not necessarily.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
If you are planning to shop for groceries, grocery delivery is a great option and has become very common on Disney property. If you want to visit the Disney Character Warehouse or the outlet malls, you CAN use Uber, Lyft or a taxi service. However, the more running around you want to do, the more convenient it is to have your own car.
We almost always do a grocery run at the start of our trips, stocking our room with breakfast and snack items, wine and water. We’ve also found the Publix near Disney property to have some really great Disney souvenirs at prices much more affordable than at Disney World. It’s not the Disney branded stuff, of course, but especially if you are buying for little kids, it’s good stuff at decent pricing.
Convenience versus Cost
For many of us, the choice to rent a car or not comes down to the question of convenience versus cost. When Disney offered Magical Express transportation from the airport for free, many guests chose to skip the rental car and take advantage of the free Disney transportation on property. From a cost savings perspective, it’s hard to beat the free Disney transportation available for Disney resort guests.
Now that transportation from the airport is no longer free, the decision of whether to rent a car has gotten a little murkier for some folks.
Modes of Transportation
Some of the fun of a Disney vacation is all the different modes of free Disney transportation available. You can travel by bus, monorail, boat or Skyliner. The most common method of Disney transportation is the bus. You can take a bus from every resort to every theme park and to Disney Springs. Note: You cannot take a bus from one theme park to another, so if you are a park hopper, you’ll want to be hopping between Monorail or Skyliner resorts to minimize your travel times. Alternatively, you need to plan on taking the bus back to your resort and then taking the resort bus to the theme park of your choice.
Photo: Linda Harkness
Monorail
There are two Monorail runs. The original Monorail track joins together the three deluxe resorts closest to the Magic Kingdom. This track loops in the Ticket and Transport Center at the Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Polynesian Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, the Magic Kingdom, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The second Monorail line runs from the Ticket and Transport Center at the Magic Kingdom to EPCOT. That is a nice long ride, especially if you really want to “ride” the monorail for the sake of riding it.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
Boats and Water Taxis
One of my favorite modes of transportation at Walt Disney World are the boats. When you visit the Magic Kingdom via car, you are required to park at the Ticket and Transport Center, and then take the Monorail or the Ferry to the Magic Kingdom. I love the Ferry, and will almost always choose the Ferry if offered the option. The Magic Kingdom resorts all offer a boat or water taxi to the Magic Kingdom. Port Orleans, Saratoga Springs and Old Key West all offer boats that go to Disney Springs. Finally, anyone staying at any of the Boardwalk area resorts has the option to take a boat to Epcot or Hollywood Studios.
Magic Kingdom Ferry Photo: Brooke Hudson
Skyliner
The Skyliner is a mode of Disney transportation but it’s more than just getting from point A to point B. The Skyliner is also an attraction that many guests love to ride just for the fun of it. The Skyliner offers transportation to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios from Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort. Each Skyliner cabin features different colors and characters, and the ride itself is smooth and offers gorgeous views of Disney World property.
Photo: Disney Parks
The Rental Car Advantage
The biggest advantage to having a rental car at Walt Disney World is the convenience. You can go to whichever theme park you want at whatever time you want to, without waiting for Disney transportation. Having a rental car also makes it much more convenient to visit a second theme park in the afternoon or evening. I’ve found having a car makes it so much easier and faster to take an afternoon break and return to our resort, returning to the park for evening fireworks.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
Freedom and Flexibility
I have learned over my many trips to Disney over the years that I am a control freak, and I really prefer to have a car for my Disney vacations. I like the freedom of being able to grocery shop on our way in from the airport, and the ability to leave property to go shopping or to find someplace to eat for less than $50/person.
Generally, it doesn’t really matter to me that I could get anywhere on Disney property for free and that I don’t NEED a car. I like to have control over where we go and when. I’m not very patient, and I don’t like waiting for the bus (or the boat or the monorail or whatever.)
Photo: Brooke Hudson
A Possible Disadvantage for Some
However, many people don’t like to worry about driving while they are on vacation. Disney signage is not always the best, and sometimes navigating Disney property can be frustrating. So while freedom to manage your schedule the way you want and the convenience of having a car is significant, you have to weigh that against the INCONVENIENCE of having to navigate Disney roadways and driving while on vacation. If the thought of that stresses you out, renting a car for your Disney vacation is probably not for you!
Lyft/Uber
After Covid, there was a severe shortage of rental cars for a couple of years, and renting a car was extremely cost prohibitive. For our first trip during this time, we originally planned to take an Uber or Lyft from and back to the airport and use Disney transportation for everything else. We ended up using Lyft and Uber for transportation to and from the parks and to Disney Springs as well. By the end of the week, we’d spent about $230 on Lyft and Uber. This was a 7 day trip, and we also took Lyft/Uber to and from the airport. We visited one park per day, but we did take afternoon breaks on a couple of days. Usually, we spend a little more than that on a rental car for the week, so we felt the Lyft/Uber solution was a good fit for us on that trip.
However, now that rental car prices are mostly back to normal and good deals can be found, we usually rent a car for our Disney vacations.
Final Answer: Should I Rent a Car for my Disney Vacation?
The answer that is right for you comes down to what is most important to you and your family. Cost or convenience? If you are trying to keep costs down, I recommend you don’t rent a car. Take advantage of Disney’s free transportation. Allow extra time each day in case you have to wait a bit for the bus. If you are going to a theme park or Disney Springs for a meal reservation, it’s good to allow yourselves at least an hour when using Disney transportation.
If convenience is more important than cost, I really love the convenience of having a car. Yes, it costs more money, but it saves TIME–which depending on your perspective, can be just as valuable as money.
What’s YOUR final answer? Will you choose to rent a car on your next Disney vacation or will you skip the rental and rely on Disney transportation to get around?
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
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
Hollywood Studios has needed more table service dining options for a long time. We were very excited when Disney announced that Toy Story Land was getting its own Western themed table service restaurant, Roundup Rodeo BBQ. Roundup Rodeo BBQ opened in April fully booked, and it remains a popular table service option. This is likely to be a hard to get table service reservation for months, if not years, to come.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Brooke Hudson
Most of the preliminary reviews I read for Roundup Rodeo BBQ were positive if not glowing. We went into this meal primed to love it. We were excited to have a new option for lunch or dinner, and I was thrilled to have secured a dinner reservation for our first planned Hollywood Studio visit of the trip.
The Good
Roundup Rodeo BBQ is themed perfectly to Toy Story Land. It fits right in, and the decor feels very similar to Toy Story Mania or Slinky Dog Dash. The design and decor of the restaurant itself, as well as the exterior waiting area and entrance to the restaurant area, are really well done and very cute. The colors are bright and cheerful, and there is a LOT to look at.
Linda in Roundup Rodeo BBQ. Photo: Brooke Hudson
The final design looks a lot like the original concept art Disney gave us when they first announced Roundup Rodeo BBQ was coming. You can check that out Here orHere.
We absolutely loved the theming. If you aren’t aware, the premise of Roundup Rodeo BBQ is that Andy has assembled all his toys in the backyard for a Rodeo. There are audio tracks playing throughout your meal that feature Toy Story characters announcing various Rodeo events or activities. A fun element is that every so often the Green Army Men will announce that Andy is coming, and all cast members in Roundup Rodeo BBQ (and lots of participating restaurant guests) freeze.
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Another good thing we liked about Roundup Rodeo BBQ is the price point. Adults are $45 per person plus tax for all you care to enjoy, and children 9 and under are $25 per person plus tax, again for all you care to enjoy. The food is served family style, and guests are welcome to request more food if they desire. Meals include biscuits with jam, three salads, four meats, dessert and a soft drink, tea, coffee, milk or juice. Specialty beverages are available for an additional cost.
The Bad
You can review the full menu for Roundup Rodeo BBQ Here.
Unfortunately, as happy as we were with the theming and the price point, we were disappointed by the food. Specifically, we really did not like the entree options for this meal. Disney has elected to go with hickory smoked for the entree meats, and hickory smoked is a very strong flavor. I have no doubt that the meats themselves are of high quality; however the hickory smoked flavor overrode the taste of the meats themselves. If you are a fan of hickory smoked, I’m sure you will love these meats.
Here are the meats you get with your meal: (Note there’s a plant based option that you can order instead of the meats—we did not try that option.)
Enjoy a Platter of all the Following House-Smoked Items
Evil Dr. Smoked Ribs | Buttercup’s Beef Brisket | There’s a Sausage in my Boot – Fire-grilled Pork Sausage | BBQ Chicken – with Style!
Photo: Disney Parks
While I normally really enjoy barbecue, I have to admit that the overpowering hickory smoked flavor of these meats was NOT something I liked. Rodeo Roundup BBQ provides three different BBQ sauces for guests to add to their meat selections, and I tried all three. All three sauces were flavorful and tasty on their own, and offer BBQ flavors popular all over the United States. One sauce was sweet (my favorite), one was tangy and the third had more kick.
I was hoping that adding the sauce would temper the overpowering hickory smoke flavor—this was most successful with the chicken, but it still didn’t make this a successful meal for us.
The ribs, in my opinion were inedible. They were very hard, almost a beef jerky texture. The beef brisket was cooked well, but again that hickory smoke flavor was so strong, the brisket was difficult to enjoy. We had suggested to our waiter that he leave the fire grilled pork sausage out of our meat basket, since neither one of us are big fans. Our waiter was insistent that we should try it—he said it was SO good, and that we really needed to try it. So we did. It was good, I’ll agree, but the andouille sausage I’d had the day before at Tucker House was better!
The Ugly
Photo: Disney Parks
I’m sorry to say that we found the sides even more disappointing than the meats were. We were told to choose four options from the various side options available. Sides offered include:
Mean Old Potato Salad
Homestyle Red-skinned Potatoes
The Married Spuds
Loaded Potato Barrels
The Claw! Veggie Slaw
(Plant-based)
Force Field Fried Pickles
Campfire-roasted Vegetables
(Plant-based)
Slinky Doooooooooog’s Mac & Cheese
Buckin’ Baked Beans
(Plant-based)
Cowpoke Corn on the Cob
Grilled Street Corn
The four choices we chose were Force Field Fried Pickles, Cowpoke Corn on the Cob, Campfire Roasted Vegetables, and Mean Old Potato Salad. Of these, the best was the Mean Old Potato Salad, but it was kind of boring.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Mean Old Potato Salad
The biggest disappointment was the Cowpoke Corn on the Cob. The description on the menu said “Grilled Street Corn”. We weren’t expecting the corn to have so much “stuff” on it. When we asked the waiter, he explained that it was “Mexican Street Corn”. I have had Mexican Street Corn before, but it was nothing like this. I’m sure there are lots of different ways to make the dish, but I’m not sure this preparation is the best choice for such a large and varied audience that includes so many children. I could see a lot of kids refusing to eat this corn. The waiter told us that the corn can be ordered as just buttered grilled corn on the cob—that would likely be more appealing to a wider audience.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Cowpoke Corn on the Cob. Photo: Brooke Hudson
We ordered the fried dill pickles just to try them — we weren’t expecting to love them, but we wanted to try them. I thought they would be crispy, but they were soft and kind of soggy. We didn’t like them at all, but I can imagine that they would appeal to some people.
The campfire roasted vegetables were just ok. We had high hopes for these as we both love roasted vegetables, but they were kind of soggy and not very flavorful.
We will most likely not be returning to Roundup Rodeo BBQ for a table service meal in the future, unless we hear they make changes to the menu. While we loved the theming, the atmosphere and most of the cast members we talked to, the food just was not enjoyable for us.
I loved the biscuit with the sweet pepper jam, and could have cheerfully eaten more of those—they were buttery soft, warm and scrumptious. Another highlight for me was my adult beverage. I tried the Rattler Rum Punch and loved it!
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Rum Rattler Punch. Photo: Brooke Hudson
We both got Billy’s Chocolate Silk Pie for dessert—that was a perfect sized portion, and all the dessert options looked terrific.
I’m glad we tried it, and we really enjoyed the environment and the theming. I’m also really happy that there is an additional table service restaurant available in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and specifically in Toy Story Land. While I’m sure Roundup Rodeo will appeal to many families—please keep in mind the strong hickory smoke flavor—if your family does not like that flavor, this meal will not be the success it could otherwise be.
You Might Love it!
As I said at the beginning, I really wanted to love Roundup Rodeo BBQ. I’m sad that I didn’t love it—and I’m even more disappointed that I didn’t even like it enough to return. Please keep in mind that these are my opinions, and your mileage may vary. Anecdotally, I did talk to a few other guests during our trip that had also tried Roundup Rodeo BBQ, and they shared similar thoughts and opinions—but that could absolutely have gone the other way, I’m sure.
Photo: Disney Parks
So, here’s the big question: Have you tried Roundup Rodeo BBQ? What did you think? If you haven’t tried it yet, do you plan to? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
One of the highlights of the annual EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Throughout the Festival, internationally recognized musical artists perform every weekend, Friday through Monday. During the week, Tuesdays through Thursdays, locally celebrated Orlando artists perform for EPCOT guests.
To learn more about the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, please read here.
Photo: Disney Parks
Garden Rocks Concert Series Schedule
Garden Rocks Concerts take place each evening at the America Gardens Theatre in the American Adventure Pavilion. The Garden Rocks Concerts run three times each evening throughout the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival: 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Concerts begin March 1, 2023 and run through July 5, 2023.
This year’s Garden Rocks Concert Series is filled with familiar returning favorites like the Plain White T’s, Simple Plan, and Kool and the Gang. This year, there are new legends joining the lineup, like legacy guitarist AJ Croce, Grammy award winner Switchfoot and Blue Oyster Cult.
The Garden Rocks Concert Series offers diverse music styles throughout the festival. The current schedule is below:
March 3-4 – Journey former lead vocalist STEVE AUGERI
March 5-6 – Daughtry
March 10-11 – Tommy DeCarlo
March 12-13 – Smash Mouth
March 17-18 – Mike DelGuidice
March 19-20 – Blue Oyster Cult – NEW
March 24-25 – Berlin
March 26-27 – The Pointer Sisters
March 31 – Luis Figueroa – NEW
April 1-2 – Piso 21 – NEW
April 3 – TBD
April 7-8 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
April 9-10 – Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles
April 16-17 – Switchfoot – NEW
April 21-22 – A Flock of Seagulls
April 23-24 – Jo Dee Messina
April 28-29 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett, The Voice Of Player
April 30, May 1 – Kool and the Gang
May 5-8 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 12-15 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
May 19-20 – A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce – NEW
May 21-22 – Casting Crowns – NEW
May 26-27 – Jason Scheff, longtime lead singer of Chicago – NEW
May 28-29 – Rick Springfield
June 2-5 – Plain White T’s
June 9-10 – The Spinners
June 11-12 – The Commodores
June 16-17 – Vertical Horizon
June 18-19 – Tony Orlando
June 23-26 – Simple Plan
June 30, July 1 – Living Colour
July 2-3 – Wang Chung
Photo: Disney Parks
Garden Rocks Dining Packages
The America Gardens Theatre has open, bleacher style seating. The seating for each show is first come, first serve, unless you’ve purchased guaranteed seats via a Garden Rocks Dining Package. The America Gardens Theatre has a maximum capacity of 1800 seats.
For really popular acts, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, the line for seating for Garden Rocks shows can get fairly long. If you want to be sure of getting a seat for your preferred date, a Garden Rocks Dining Package is a good way to go.
When you book a Garden Rocks Dining Package, you pay a fixed price. The price depends on the restaurant you choose. Your fixed price includes an appetizer, an entrée, a dessert or one (1) full buffet or family-style meal (where applicable) and a non alcoholic beverage. Your fixed price also includes one (1) guaranteed seat per person to the Garden Rocks concert for that day.
If your chosen restaurant is Spice Road Table, the fixed price includes two small plates, a shared dessert platter and a nonalcoholic beverage. It also includes one (1) guaranteed seat per person to the Garden Rocks concert for that day.
Advance reservations are highly recommended for the participating table service restaurants.
After you’ve dined at your restaurant, you’ll be given a Garden Rocks seating badge. The badge will specify the date and show time you’ve reserved.
For each show, there will be two queues. One for guests with the Garden Rocks Dining Package badges and one for guests without Garden Rocks Dining Package badges.
Guests with Garden Rocks Dining Package badges will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is guaranteed.
Guests who have not reserved a Garden Rocks Dining Package will be seated at the Garden Rocks concert on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is based on availability due to limited capacity.
Keep in mind that to attend the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival or the Garden Rocks Concert Series, both a theme park reservation and valid theme park admission are required. EPCOT admission is not included in the price of the dining package.
I’ve Seen Rick Springfield at Least 20 Times Over the Years….
But never at Disney. At least not yet. Yes, I went to high school in the 80’s.
This year’s Garden Rocks Concert Series has quite the lineup isn’t it? There’s quite a few acts I’d really like to see this year–not just Rick Springfield, I promise.
Herman’s Hermits are playing the weekend Mom and I will be there for our annual Mother/Daughter trip. They’ll be fun to watch for sure. I’m bummed we’ll be missing Rick Springfield and Plain White T’s. I’d love to see The Commodores, Daughtry, Jo Dee Messina, Berlin, or a Flock of Seagulls. Really, there are a LOT of great acts this year.
Who would you want to see?
There’s still time to make reservations for this year’s International Flower & Garden Festival. If you’d like a no obligation quote, please call 630-538-1124 or email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today to start planning your next Disney adventure!
We are getting closer to the long awaited opening date for TRON Lightcycle/Run at the Magic Kingdom on April 4, 2023. The closer we get, the more information Disney makes available to us. In our last post about the new attraction (read here), I theorized that TRON Lightcycle/Run would open using a virtual queue. Disney has confirmed this theory. When it opens on April 4, TRON Lightcycle/Run will use a virtual queue. There will be NO standby lines for TRON Lightcycle/Run initially.
TRON Lightcycle/Run Photo: Disney Parks
How Will the TRON Lightcycle/Run Virtual Queue Work?
Disney has been using the virtual queue for all new attractions for the last several years. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure both used virtual queues when they first opened. Both stopped using the virtual queue more than a year ago. Currently, EPCOT’s newest attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is using a virtual queue. That attraction will have been open for almost ten months by the time TRON Lightcycle/Run opens. Based on the pattern Disney has set with the previous attractions, I suspect Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will stop using the virtual queue sometime in March, if not sooner.
That way, when TRON Lightcycle/Run needs to start using the virtual queue, it will be the only attraction using it. I’m assuming Disney’s system COULD allow more than one attraction to use virtual queues at a time, especially if they are at different parks. But guests might find the booking experience confusing or frustrating. If an attraction doesn’t NEED the virtual queue, why not simplify things and eliminate it?
Why will TRON Lightcycle/Run use a Virtual Queue?
Disney uses a virtual queue when a new attraction opens primarily to maximize their ability to manage crowd flow through the attraction. The virtual queue system enables them to slow boarding groups arrival times if the attraction breaks down (common with new attractions) or if there are any quirks that arise with loading or unloading that they didn’t anticipate.
Using the virtual queue also adds a bit of mystery around a new attraction. There’s no way for the average guest to really know how many guests rode an attraction on a particular day.
A virtual queue also really helps Disney control the standby line flow, especially if the standby areas might get really tight if the lines get super long. For example, the area back by Ratatouille isn’t super big. If that line got too long, it could easily extend way out into the rest of France and cause a lot of congestion. By using a virtual queue, Disney was able to control the length of the length until the “newness” of that attraction wore off enough to keep that standby line down to a manageable length.
I haven’t seen the area for the TRON standby line inside the attraction, but there isn’t much space outside the attraction. The Speedway is RIGHTTHERE. I suspect that Disney will want to the line from extending out into this area if at all possible. Using the virtual queue will help Disney control this.
TRON Lightcycle/Run will be an Individual Lightning Lane Attraction
Guests with park tickets and park reservations for the Magic Kingdom will have the opportunity to purchase an individual Lightning Lane entry (a la carte) for TRON Lightcycle/Run, based on availability. Pricing and availability for the TRON Lightcycle/Run Lightning Lane entry will vary based on the season, demand, crowd levels and demand.
Locker System for TRON Lightcycle/Run
TRON Lightcycle/Run features a new double sided, digitized locker system inside the attraction queue. These lockers will be used to store guests’ bags and loose items while they ride the attraction. These complimentary lockers will pair with the guest’s Magic Band, Magic Band+, or ticket media so that the guest can either lock or reopen their locker easily with a quick tap. Guests without a Magic Band or ticket media (like a card) will be provided with a card to access a locker. All items must be placed either in a locker before guests board their Lightcycle or inside a small compartment located on the attraction vehicle. The small compartment can hold small items like a wallet, glasses or a cell phone.
Photo: Disney Parks
Disney PhotoPass and Videos
If you’ve been following for any time at all, you know that I am a BIG fan of PhotoPass. Photos are some of the best souvenirs from your vacations. Photos will outlast the TShirts, the sweatshirts and the snacks. As any new attraction should be, TRON Lightcycle/Run is equipped with some terrific on ride video and photo offerings. (Is anyone else still surprised that there ISN’T a PhotoPass photo on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance???)
If you are wearing a Magic Band or a Magic Band+, your attraction photo and video will automatically be linked to your My Disney Experience account.
Photo: Disney Parks
If you don’t have a Magic Band or a Magic Band+, you can still have access to your ride photo and video by using the My Disney Experience app. To use the My Disney Experience app to capture your ride photo and video, follow the steps below.
Enable Bluetooth® for the My Disney Experience app before riding.
Make sure to be logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day.
Keep your device out of low power mode.
Make sure your mobile device boards the Lightcycle with you and is safely stored in the small Lightcycle compartment to use this method.
Will You Try the TRON Lightcycle/Run Virtual Queue?
Will you take your changes and try to get a boarding group for TRON Lightcycle/Run via the virtual queue? Or will you purchase an Individual Lightning Lane via Genie+ if it’s available? Individual Lightning Lane prices for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind peaked at $17-$18 last year during Thanksgiving week and again during Christmas week. How much would you be willing to pay to ride TRON Lightcycle/Run?
If you’d like to plan a trip to check TRON Lightcycle/Run out for yourself and you’d like a no obligation quote, email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com or call 630-538-1124 today!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
We have more information about the new table service restaurant opening soon in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney has announced that Roundup Rodeo BBQ will open on March 23, 2023. Note: Even though we are within the sixty day window, you cannot yet make reservations for Roundup Rodeo BBQ. I’m sure Disney will make an announcement soon about when reservations will open up. I’ll keep you posted!
Even more exciting, Disney has shared details with us about the Roundup Rodeo BBQ menu! We’ve posted about Roundup Rodeo BBQ before, but we didn’t know anything about the menu at that time. All we knew is that the restaurant would be table service and western themed. We could be fairly certain there would be barbeque involved, given the “BBQ” in the restaurant name, but you never know! <wink>
Toy Story Land Table Service Restaurant Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Disney Parks
Theming
Roundup Rodeo BBQ is a rodeo arena that Andy has created in the backyard for his toys. All honorary toys visiting Andy’s backyard are also invited (that’s us!). Andy has used a variety of his toys, games and playsets to create his Roundup Rodeo arena, and when we visit, we’ll all get to see the world through the eyes of Andy’s toys.
While we’re there, we’ll be offered house smoked meats, a roundup of sides, some sweet surprises and more in this western-themed family-style restaurant.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Menu
First up, we will start with the Prospector’s Homemade Cheddar Biscuits. These are served with sweet pepper jelly. They look awfully good, don’t they? Of course, I’m a sucker for biscuits of almost any kind….
Photo: Disney Parks
Salads
Next up, there are three delicious different salads for toys and honorary toys alike to enjoy.
Tomato Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled red onions tossed in a white balsamic vinaigrette and garnished with fresh dill (plant-based)
Rex’s Romaine and Kale Salad: Romaine and kale mixed with green apples, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries tossed with green goddess dressing
Watermelon Salad: Cubed watermelon garnished with freshly torn mint leaves (plant-based)
Photo: Disney Parks
Smoked Meats
Now comes the good stuff! (if you like smoked meats, that is!)
Guests can enjoy a hearty serving of house-smoked meats, including:
Evil Dr. Smoked Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, slow-cooked for hours in our onsite smokehouse
Buttercup’s Beef Brisket: Hand-sliced beef brisket, smoked then slow-cooked to juicy perfection
There’s a Sausage in My Boot: Spiced pork sausage fire-grilled over live oak to give it an added kick
BBQ Chicken – with Style! Chicken brined for 48 hours, rubbed with our secret backyard BBQ spice and smoked to tender juiciness
Photo: Disney Parks
Plant-Based Options
No worries. If you aren’t a meat-eater, there are savory plant-based offerings available upon request.
Slow-smoked Cauliflower topped with sweet harissa drizzle and crunchy walnut gremolata
Oven-roasted “Bratwurst” that is tender and juicy, sliced to perfection
Impossible “Rib Chop” seasoned with spices, then roasted and glazed with sweet BBQ sauce and skewered on a sugar cane “bone”
All entreés served with an assortment of sweet, traditional, and spicy BBQ sauces.
Photo: Disney Parks
Sides
Next up, there are a bunch of sides to choose from. Guests can choose four sides for the table from the list below.
The Married Spuds: Loaded potato barrels drizzled with green goddess dressing, cheese sauce, and seasoned BBQ spices
Force Field Fried Pickles: Jumbo pickle spears coated with a dill-flavored breading and fried to perfection
Slinky Doooooooooog Mac & Cheese: Spiral pasta in a creamy house-made cheese sauce topped with crumbled cheddar crackers
Buckin’ Baked Beans: A traditional BBQ picnic favorite (plant-based)
Cowpoke Corn on the Cob: Grilled and seasoned with a chili-lime spice blend, cilantro, cotija cheese, and lime juice
Mean Old Potato Salad: Homestyle with red-skinned potatoes
Veggie Slaw: Crunchy shredded veggie slaw that is a summertime favorite! (plant-based)
Campfire-roasted Vegetables: A variety of roasted seasonal vegetables (plant-based)
Photo: Disney Parks
Desserts
Now, we get to the sweet stuff: Desserts!! These perfectly portioned chuckwagon desserts offer a sweet take on the BBQ picnic classics. Guests can choose from a selection for the table.
Cupcake à la Forky: Forky is up to something sweet! A classic chocolate cake with a gooey chocolate ganache center topped with velvety graham cracker buttercream and a sugar cookie
Lemon and Blueberry Cheesecake: An iconic creamy dessert that balances the tanginess of the cheesecake with the natural sweetness of blueberries and lemon
Billy’s Chocolate Silk Pie: Layers of graham cracker crust and silky chocolate mousse topped with chantilly cream
Goat’s Apple Pie: A picnic classic! Tart apples and warm pie spices balance perfectly with the creamy sweet filling under a crumble crust
Gruff’s Peach-Strawberry Pie: With its silky sweet peaches and tartness of strawberries, this dessert is a fruit-centric delight! (plant-based)
Photo: Disney Parks
Beverages
The Roundup Rodeo BBQ menu would not be complete without some craft cocktails and nonalcoholic beverages on offer. Not to worry, guests feeling nostalgic for backyard picnics will find plenty here to enjoy.
Grown-up Craft Cocktails:
Snake Eye Margarita: Inspired by a summertime BBQ featuring watermelon, smoke, and a bit of spice!
Rum Punch: Rum punch with vibrant flavors of passion fruit and pineapple finished with a smoky spiced garnish
Chocolate with a Grown-up Twist: A blend of chocolate rum, horchata liqueur, cocoa, and flavors of toasted marshmallow
Frozen Peanut Butter & Jelly: A fun frozen twist on the classic peanut butter & jelly featuring peanut butter whiskey
Whiskey Lemonade: A fresh take on a strawberry lemonade made with Tennessee whiskey and Italian bitter aperitif
The Rodeo Mule: A classic “patio sipper,” this mule mixes vodka with fresh juices and ginger beer
A selection of beer, hard cider, and wines by the glass are available.
Photo: Disney Parks
Nonalcoholic offerings:
Molly’s Frozen Iced Tea: A frosty concoction with iced tea and citrus flavors
Frozen Cocoa: A frozen blend of cocoa and vanilla topped with miniature marshmallows
Partysaurus Tex: Strawberry lemonade is even more fun when you garnish it with gummy worms!
Will YOU be Making Reservations?
So, now that you’ve seen the Roundup Rodeo BBQ menu, are you going to be making reservations for this table service restaurant for your next Disney vacation? Mom and I are going down for our annual mother daughter trip in May. I’m planning to try and get reservations for that visit so that we can report back to all of you. I also need to know if I want to recommend this restaurant to my clients in the future.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Concept Art
However, a new table service restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is very welcome! I think this one is in a good location, and will appeal to a lot of families. The Imagineers have done a great job so far in Toy Story Land; I love the details throughout Andy’s backyard. I am very hopeful that Roundup Rodeo BBQ will not disappoint. Time will tell.
If you’d like to visit Disney this year, I’d love to help! Please contact me for a no obligation quote. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com or call 630-538-1124.
Happy dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
It’s almost time! The 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival opens March 1, 2023 and will run through July 5, 2023. The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is my favorite EPCOT festival. Every spring, my mom and I plan our annual mother daughter Disney trip around the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.
Springtime flowers and fairies at EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival
EPCOT is never more beautiful than during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. Even during these painful “construction walls” years of growth, EPCOT still sparkles during Flower & Garden. The glorious flowers everywhere and the beautiful topiaries manage to make the construction walls recede somehow—or maybe just make them less noticeable? But EPCOT just looks a little prettier every where during this festival than it does during the rest of the year.
Three Cabelleros Topiaries Photo: Brooke Hudson
The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival features gorgeous themed gardens throughout all areas of EPCOT. There are special seating areas in some gardens where you can just sit and enjoy the beauty around you. Planters are every where, filled with flowers and greenery. There are even floating planters with flowers in them. Throughout EPCOT, you will find amazing topiaries themed to your favorite Disney and Pixar characters.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
What’s new for this year’s EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival?
This year, there are a couple of NEW things to look forward to. Anything new, quite frankly, is a bit exciting. As much as I love this particular Festival, EPCOT hasn’t really done much in the way of “new” for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival in a few years. So I am really excited that there IS some new stuff to look forward to this year.
New Topiaries
This year, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is going to be featuring several new topiaries. First, near the main entrance of the park, we will meet several characters from the beloved Disney movie Encanto. Mirabel, Isabela, Luisa, and Antonio are all making their debut as topiaries this year.
Also new this year: Princess Tiana from The Princess and The Frog will grace the American Adventure in World Showcase.
Figment Topiary Photo: Brooke Hudson
Of course all of our classic favorite topiaries will still be featured all over EPCOT. We will still be able to find Figment, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Anna and Elsa, Lady and the Tramp, and many, many more.
Snow White and Dopey Photo: Brooke Hudson
2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Merchandise
One of the highlights for mom and I every year at the Festival is investigating all the new Festival merchandise. Every Festival has its own merchandise line. Mom almost always gets a coffee mug. We always get a pin from each year’s festival for our park backpacks. I almost always end up with a T-shirt or something.
In addition to Flower & Garden Festival Merchandise, the Festival also features Orange Bird 70’s retro themed merchandise. This line has everything from apparel and pins to housewares.
I haven’t seen anything yet for this year’s Festival merchandise. As soon as Disney releases images of this year’s Festival merchandise I will update this post.
Here’s some of the merchandise we found at last year’s Festival:
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Garden Rocks Concert Series
Throughout the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, various musical acts are featured at the America Gardens Theatre. Disney has not yet released the musical act lineup for 2023. I will update this post once Disney releases this year’s information.
Outdoor Kitchens
One thing we all know about Disney is that they are VERY good at making money. Disney learned very early on with the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival that there was LOTS of money to be made from Food Booths installed around World Showcase during the Festival. As a result, Disney started including smaller scale versions of the “Food” portion of the Festival at their other EPCOT Festivals.
For the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, these food booths are called Outdoor Kitchens. This year’s Festival will include more than 15 Outdoor Kitchens. Each Outdoor Kitchen will have a different theme and will feature 1-3 food items and 1-2 beverages according to the theme.
We don’t yet have much information about the 2023 Outdoor Kitchens. The only one we know so far is The Citrus Blossom, which will be located at The Odyssey.
The Citrus Blossom Outdoor Kitchen Photo: Disney Parks
As soon as more information is released, I will update this post.
Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration
Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is a springtime Scavenger Hunt that adds a fun layer to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. Mom & I did this last spring and really enjoyed it.
In 2022, the cost was $9.99. For $9.99, you got a Scavenger Hunt board and a sheet of stickers. As you worked your way around the Festival, you looked for Spike in various gardens located all over the Festival. When you found him, you placed the sticker for the flower he’s with on that Garden on your board. When your board was completely filled out, you turned it in at a Festival gift shop for a prize. It was educational, fun and encouraged us to pay more attention to the different gardens as we moved around the Festival.
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I highly recommend playing. We plan to play again this year!
Blossoms of Fragrance
On the bridge from the “Construction Zone” 🙂 to World Showcase, you will pass through the Blossoms of Fragrance Exhibit area.
Blossoms of Fragrance Photo: Disney Parks(Courtney Kiefer, Photographer)
This exhibit area offers some great photo opportunities. Blossoms of Fragrance is presented by Scentsy. Guests will be surrounded by butterfly topiaries. There are six different scent stations for guests to explore. Each aroma will inspire memories and enhance your experience.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say it enough. I love visiting EPCOT during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival every year. EPCOT is so beautiful. It’s just an explosion of colors. There are flowers everywhere, and it’s just something that fills me with joy every time.
Flower & Garden Festival Mickey & Minnie Topiaries
This year, Mom and I are going from May 3 – May 10. Not quite in the middle of the Festival, but close. That is another thing to consider when planning a visit to the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival. The Festival itself changes throughout the growing season. The gardeners update plants and flowers as the season goes on. In a perfect world, I’d visit (at least) monthly throughout the Festival to see the evolution of the florals. But for now, we try to visit mid-Festival. It’s close to Mom’s birthday and Mother’s Day, and about a month before my birthday, so we use our trip as a celebration for all of that stuff.
Will you attend the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival?
What do you think? Will this be the year you visit for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival? If you’d like a no obligation quote, email now brooke@disneycastledreaming.com or call 630-538-1124.
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today to start planning your next Disney adventure!
