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.
“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.
Believe it or not, it’s Halloween at Walt Disney World! It seems to arrive earlier and earlier every year. This year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties began earlier this week, and the Magic Kingdom is decked out in its finest fall and Halloween decor. This year, Disney’s PhotoPass department has really outdone themselves and there are lots of new special magic shots for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
What is a Magic Photo Shot?
A magic photo shot is a picture taken by a PhotoPass photographer with a little “magic” added to the picture that you won’t see until you look at the photo in your My Disney Experience app. What the magic is depends on which park you are in and where in the park you are. The time of year and any special events also impact what Magic Shots are available.
Here’s an example of a commonly available Magic Shot at Magic Kingdom:
The PhotoPass photographer will ask you to put your hands out in front of you or out to the side. When you see your picture later, you might find a beautiful little fairy with an attitude.
It is important to note, there is no guarantee you will get a Magic Shot. The longer the line for the photographer, the less likely you are to end up with a Magic Shot. If there is one you really want to get, don’t be afraid to ask for it, but be nice. And please, be understanding if the PhotoPass photographer is unable to give you the Magic Shot you are requesting. Depending on the location they are working in, they will only have certain Magic Shots loaded into their software. Also, if the lines are long, or if you’re asking for a shot that is event specific and you are not at the event–the Photopass photographer will not be able to help you.
New Special Magic Photo Shots for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
You may discover a few of these shots available during your Disney vacation this fall, even if you don’t attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. However, the vast majority of the new special magic photo shots I’m telling you about in this post will only be available during the ticketed event. If you’d like more information about Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, please read this.
Here are some of my favorite new and classic special Magic Photo Shots available during this year’s Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties festivities. I’m also sharing where you’ll be likely to find these special shots available.
Location: Gardens near Casey’s Corner and The Plaza Restaurant
New this year! I really want to do this one!
Photo: Disney Photo Pass
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
Main Street U.S.A.
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks..
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
New this year!
Photo: Disney Parks
In Front of The Haunted Mansion
Another classic returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
This fun lantern shot is also returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Liberty Square Near the Hall of Presidents
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year–one of my FAVORITES!
Photo: Disney Parks
Castle Walls Near Pinocchio Village Haus
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Near the Purple Wall by Laugh Floor (Monsters, Inc.)
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Select Spots in Front of or Near Cinderella Castle
Classic returning this year. How great are these kids? Really acting their little hearts out!
Photo: Disney Parks
Returning this year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Which New Special Magic Photo Shot Do YOU Want??
There are some really fun new Magic Photo shots this year, aren’t there? Several look like fun. And of course, some favorite Magic Photo Shots from the last few years are coming back this year, too.
Hopefully at least a few of your favorite shots will be available during the regular park days this fall, but remember: most of these are special just for the Halloween parties. If you’ve never been to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, it is a special ticketed evening event featuring special Halloween themed shows, treats, special merchandise, trick or treating and a really terrific parade. Click here to learn more. It’s not to late to book your trip for this Halloween season. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a no obligation quote!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
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
The 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival starts today, March 1,2023. This year’s festival will run through July 5, 2023. This year’s Festival features new topiaries, great music and tons of great food.
Photo: Disney Parks
The 2023 International Flower & Garden Festival features more than 15 outdoor kitchens. There are returning popular favorites like the Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake from the Honey Bee-stro hosted by the National Honey Board and the Boneless IMPOSSIBLE Korean Short Rib at Trowel & Trellis hosted by IMPOSSIBLE.
There are nearly 50 brand new dishes blossoming for the first time at this year’s festival. Lots of great dishes that guests will be eager to try, like the Citrus Baked Brie from the Citrus Blossom and the Muffuletta Panini from Magnolia Terrace. For guests that are lucky enough to visit the Festival more than once during it’s 4 month run, be sure to check out the EPCOT Farmer’s Feast. The EPCOT Farmer’s Feast is featuring a seasonal menu that will change as the Festival progresses. How fun is that?
Springtime flowers and fairies at Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival
Extra Fun for Foodies
A fun activity for foodies attending the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is the Garden Graze. The Garden Graze is a kind of scavenger hunt based on food items at various outdoor kitchens around the Festival. There are 11 different tasty treats featured in the Garden Graze. After you purchase on of the treats, you’ll get a stamp in your Garden Graze passport. Once you’ve collected five stamps in your passport, you’ll receive an exclusive treat from the Pineapple Promenade. I love a scavenger hunt, and one based on food, likely with a food treat as a reward? Sign me up!
Foodie Guide for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
EPCOT Farmers Feast
Food Items:
Early Bloom Menu (Available March 1 through April 8)
Chilled Potato and Leek Soup “Vichyssoise” with bacon lardons, potato croutons, chive oil, and crispy leeks (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Char-grilled Bison Ribeye with creamy leek fondue, red wine butter sauce, and whipped red wine goat cheese
Spice Cake with cream cheese icing and candied pecans and parsnip (New)
Ice Cream Float: Tangerine soft-serve and cream soda
Beverages:
Lavender Martini: Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka with Lavender and Lemon
Lexington Brewing Tangerine Cream Ale
Blake’s Hard Cider Co. Grand Cherry Hard Cider (New)
Southern Tier Brewing Co. Juice Jolt IPA (New)
BAUERNMARKT: FARMER’S MARKET (Germany)
Food Items:
Potato Pancakes with house-made apple sauce (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Potato Pancake with caramelized ham, onions, and herb sour cream (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Toasted Pretzel Bread topped with black forest ham and melted gruyère cheese
Warm Cheese Strudel with mixed berries
Beverages:
Bitburger Premium Pils
Stiegl Brewery Radler Raspberry
Flensburger Dunkel
Apfelschaumwein: Sparkling wine and apple liqueur
Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks
Magnolia Terrace(The American Adventure)
Food Items:
Muffuletta Panini with ham, salami, mortadella, provolone, and Swiss with olive salad (New)
Spicy Chicken Gumbo with Andouille sausage and BEN’S ORIGINAL Long Grain & Wild Rice
Crawfish Pie (New)
Bananas Foster Bread Pudding (New)
Beverages:
Bayou Cocktail: Bayou Spiced Rum, coconut rum, fruit punch, and orange juice
Central 28 Beer Co. Pretty Things Ale (New)
Wicked Weed Brewing Day Light American Light Ale
Parish Brewing Co. Ghost in the Machine Double IPA
Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks
Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina(Morocco)
Food Items:
Hummus Trio: Traditional hummus, red beet and black garlic hummus, and avocado-herb hummus with Moroccan bread and crispy papadam (New) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Orange Blossom-Saffron Cake (New)
Beverages:
Pomegranate Mimosa
Keel Farms Strawberry Elderflower Hard Cider
Bold Rock Tangerine Hard Cider
3 Daughters Brewing Pomegranate Hard Cider
Cider Flight
La Isla Fresca(Between Morocco and France)
Food Items:
Braised Oxtail with pigeon pea rice (New)
Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with BEN’S ORIGINAL Long Grain White Rice, mango salsa, and coconut-lime sauce
Coconut Tres Leches: Vanilla cake soaked in oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk with toasted coconut (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Beverages:
Tropical Breeze: Minute Maid Lemonade, grapefruit, and simple syrup (Non-alcoholic)
Islamorada Beer Company Coconut Key Lime Ale
Florida Orange Groves Winery Tropical Perception White Sangria
Tropical Breeze with Don Q Límon Rum
Northern Bloom(Canada)
Food Items:
Seared Scallops with French green beans, butter potatoes, brown butter vinaigrette, and Nueske’s Applewood-smoked Bacon (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beef Tenderloin Tips, mushroom bordelaise sauce, and whipped potatoes with garden vegetables
Chocolate Maple Whisky Cake (New)
Beverages:
Maple Popcorn Shake (Non-alcoholic)
Collective Arts Brewing Honey Lager
Glutenberg Blonde Ale, Montreal
81Bay Brewing Co. Apricot with Maple Syrup
Maple Popcorn Shake with Tap 357 Maple Rye Whisky
Beer Flight
Photo: Disney Parks
Refreshment Port(Near Canada)
Food Items:
Shrimp Scampi Poutine with cheese curds, lemon-garlic cheese fondue, spinach, and artichokes (New)
Soft-serve Waffle Cone: Peanut butter, jelly, or swirl
Beverages:
Mighty Swell Purple Magic Spiked Seltzer (New)
Villa Maria Earth Garden Sauvignon Blanc (New)
Frozen Mojito with Boyd & Blair Rum (New)
Trowel & Trellis Hosted by IMPOSSIBLE(Near Port of Entry)
Food Items:
Boneless IMPOSSIBLE Korean Short Rib with cilantro-lime rice, Danmuji slaw, and kimchee mayonnaise (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
IMPOSSIBLE Lumpia with Thai sweet chili sauce (New) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Chocolate Cake with black currant ganache, mixed berry compote, and chocolate ice cream (New) (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Beverages:
Twinings Iced Green Tea with Cranberry and Lime (Non-alcoholic)
Parish Brewing Co. Bloom Hazy IPA
Lohr Wildflower Valdiguié
Twinings Iced Green Tea with cranberry and lime with Hangar 1 Makrut Vodka served in a mason jar
The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board(Near Port of Entry)
Food Items:
Chicken and Waffles: Crispy honey-brined chicken and honey sweet corn bread waffle with whipped honey butter and spicy honey (New)
Fruit and Cheese Plate: Grapes, strawberries, cheddar, and Mini Babybel Snack Cheese
Vegetable Plate: Broccoli, carrot sticks, and tomatoes with dip (Plant-based)
Pretzels with Hummus Dip (Plant-based)
Cookies ‘n “Cream” Chocolate Mousse Cup (Plant-based) (Garden Graze)
Sunshine Seasons
Beverage:
Strawberry-mango Slushy (Non-alcoholic)
Connections Café & Eatery
Food Item:
Orange Bird Liege Waffle (New)
Beverage:
Flower Drop Cocktail: St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Minute Maid Premium Lemonade (New)
Photo: Disney Parks
Jardin de Fiestas(Mexico)
Food Items:
Quesadilla de Flor de Calabaza: House-made masa tortillas with squash blossoms, bacon, onion, zucchini, and cheese (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Taco Vampiro: Barbacoa Beef in a Corn Tortilla with crispy grilled monterey jack cheese, salsa ranchera, and esquites (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Beverages:
Mala Hierba Margarita: Centinela Tequila Reposado, elderflower-chamomile tea, Abasolo Corn Whiskey, and UNA Flower-infused Vodka with a chile salt rim (New)
Cristal Margarita: 100% Agave Tequila Blanco, Ilegal Mezcal Joven, clarified lemon juice, and orange liqueur in a souvenir cup (New)
Craft Mexican Lager
Lotus House(China)
Food Items:
Spicy Mala Chicken Skewer with creamy peanut sauce
House-made Cheesy Crab Wontons
Pan-fried Vegetable Dumplings
Beverages:
Classic Bubble Milk Tea (Non-alcoholic)
Cherry Blossom Pilsner Draft Beer
Kung Fu Master: Tito’s Vodka, Triple Sec, mango, orange juice, and soda water
Tang Dynasty: Jose Cuervo Especial Tequila Gold, light rum, strawberry, piña colada mix, soda water, and white boba pearls
Tropical Moon: Smirnoff Vodka, Triple Sec, passion fruit, soda water and white boba pearls (New)
Primavera Kitchen(Italy)
Food Items:
Caesar con Gamberett: Baby gem lettuce, shrimp, Caesar dressing, and crispy bread crumble (New)
Budino alle Nocciole: Chocolate-hazelnut pudding with cookie crumble (New)
Beverages:
Peroni Pilsner
Prosecco
Moscato
Italian Sangria red or white
Italian Margarita with limoncello and tequila
Hanami (Japan)
Food Items:
Frushi: Strawberry, pineapple, and lychee wrapped in sweet rice and pink soy wrap served with whipped cream, drizzled raspberry sauce, and toasted coconut
Hanami Sushi: Assorted Nigiri sushi with lemon-cured salmon, soy-marinated tuna, and cured mackerel (New)
Creamy Shrimp Udon: Udon soup with shrimp and spring vegetables (New)
Beverages:
Sakura Cherry Blossom Pilsner (New)
Hakushika Hana Kohaku Plum Sake: Junmai Ginjo blended with Japanese plum (New)
Nigori Dragon Fruit Sake Cocktail (New)
Fleur de Lys(France)
Food Items:
Croissant au Fromage de Chèvre, Herbes et Ail Rôtie: Croissant with goat cheese, herbs, and roasted garlic
Daube de Boeuf à la Provençal, Compote de Tomate au Romarin Gnocchi à la Niçoise: Provençal-style braised beef, rosemary tomato, and niçoise gnocchi (New)
Tarte Chocolat Mogador: Chocolate tart with Valrhona single origin chocolate brownie, walnuts, and raspberry coulis served warm (New)
Beignet Caramélisé, Fourré Crème Vanille, Glacé au Caramel Fleur de Sel: Caramelized beignet filled with vanilla cream and glazed with caramel fleur de sel
Beverages:
Kronenbourg Blanc 1664 Draft Beer
VeRy Raspberry: Rosé wine with natural raspberry flavor
Kir àla Poire: French sparkling wine with Monin desert pear (New)
La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush: Vodka, Grey Goose L’Orange Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, and white and red cranberry juices
Photo: Disney Parks
Funnel Cake
Banana Split Funnel Cake: Funnel Cake topped with Banana-Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, Whipped Cream, Diced Strawberries, and a Maraschino Cherry drizzled with Chocolate Syrup (New)
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE) – Exotic Lemon Tea: A refreshing mix of Frozen Lemon and Iced Tea featuring Exotic Berry notes (Spirited option available featuring Grey Goose Vodka)(New)
Near Canada – Melonade: A tangy blend of Frozen Lemon with a burst of watermelon (Spirited option available featuring Grey Goose Vodka)(New)
World Showcase (Near Disney Traders) – Orange Cream Cold Brew: A smooth blend of French Roast Cold Brew with flavors of orange and vanilla topped with a splash of cream, whipped cream, and coconut shavings (Spirited option available featuring Kahlúa Rum and Coffee Liqueur)(New)
The American Adventure – Key Lime Cold Brew: A zesty blend of French Roast Cold Brew with flavors of Key lime and white chocolate topped with a splash of cream, whipped cream, and graham cracker crumbs (Spirited option available featuring Kahlúa Rum and Coffee Liqueur)(New)
(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)
What Food Items Are You Looking Forward To?
I don’t know about you, but I’m very excited about some of these offerings. Mom and I always plan at least two EPCOT days during our annual Flower & Garden Festival trips. Some years we’ve even gone back a third time. We go for the Flowers, but the food is a becoming more and more of a draw every year.
Photo: Disney Parks
Is there anything you are really looking forward to trying?
It’s not too late to plan a trip for this year’s International Flower & Garden Festival. I’d love to help! Reach out now for a no obligation quote! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com or call 630-538-1124.
Brooke Hudson Disney Vacation Planner
If you’d like to check out our other posts on this year’s Festival, please click here or here.
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!
I have more good news to share today! Walt Disney World has announced that they are removing the nightly parking fees at Walt Disney World Resorts for overnight guests. This is the first bit of FINANCIAL good news I’ve been able to share for a while about our beloved Walt Disney World. Could this be an early result of Bob Iger’s return? I don’t know, but it definitely makes me happy!
Free Parking Returns for Disney Resort Guests Immediately!
If you don’t drive at Walt Disney World, you may not have felt this pain. Starting in 2018, Disney resort guests were charged between $15 and $25 per night per vehicle to park at their resort. Only Disney Vacation Club guests were exempt from these charges. As I’m sure you can imagine, these costs added up quickly for guests. If you drove to Walt Disney World or chose to rent a vehicle for your Florida vacation, you felt this pain.
These fees have been an enormous source of guest frustration over the last several years. Parking fees have also served as a STRONG example in media conversations about Disney “nickel and diming” guests on top of ever increasing park ticket prices.
Walt Disney World Resort guests already get free parking at the theme parks–this has not changed. However, making the decision whether to rent a car or whether to fly or drive is a little easier when you don’t have to add in the cost of parking at your resort every night!
Is this a PR Move?
So of course, a big question is WHY is free parking returning for Disney resort guests? Is it just a big public relations move? Absolutely!! It is for SURE an effort to improve the public perception of the Walt Disney Company. Disney’s reputation, especially with the fanbase has taken a lot of hits in the past couple of years. Free parking is a pretty minor move, but it will get some press. It will also make a lot of Disney fans and travelers happy. Or at least, happier.
Photo: Brooke Hudson
What is giving this news more mileage for me personally is that Disney is sacrificing revenue. We haven’t seen Disney do this in a long time. For the last I don’t even KNOW how many years, we have seen a trend of Disney making an awful lot of decisions that are VERY bottom line focused. We have seen LOTS of decisions that seem to put guest experience and guest relations at a much lower premium than the company used to value.
The reality is, a Walt Disney World has always been expensive. But the value over the years has decreased. It is still VERY valuable, and hour for hour, you still get a TON of value from a Walt Disney World vacation. But for those of us that have been visiting Walt Disney World for many years, it’s challenging to see the guest experience degrade somewhat while the pricing of everything has increased so significantly.
Final Thoughts
I don’t know if free parking returning for resort guests is a sign of things to come or just a token PR gesture — but it IS meaningful. It HAS impact on Disney travelers, especially those that drive to Walt Disney World. And it will, very slightly, reduce how much money Disney will make from the resorts each day. Or maybe it won’t. Because if the guest doesn’t have to spend $25 to park his car, maybe he will spend it on a T-shirt instead.
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
