Exciting news this week is coming from Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We’ve got a new table service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land!
We don’t have a date yet, so most likely it will be sometime in 2020 or even 2021. However, additional table service restaurants are needed throughout the Parks, and I think a new one themed to Toy Story Land will be a welcome addition!
Rodeo Play Area
Apparently, Andy has decided to set up a new play area in the backyard. This new area will be a rodeo play area, and lots of our favorite toys are very excited to join in the fun!
This new rodeo play area will feature western town and train station playsets, and lots of rodeo themed activities.
Toy Story Land’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Artist’s Rendering (Source: Disney Parks)
Of course, this is Toy Story Land, so this may be a really unique rodeo. Lots of toys that we know and love aren’t exactly “western” themed. Mr Potato Head, Buzz Lightyear, Slinky Dog, the green army men and the dinosaur toys are all bound to add some color and very unique elements to the rodeo theme!
We don’t know anything about the food that will be served here yet, but I suspect it will be western themed–perhaps BBQ ribs and chicken? I’m not sure, but I’m really excited to find out!
I think we WILL be able to count on a fun, family friendly atmosphere that will be lots of fun to visit.
Until this new table service restaurant opens, you can still find great food in Toy Story Land. Check out Woody’s Lunch Box, a quick service restaurant that specializes in sandwiches, lunch box tarts and more!
Toy Story Land’s Woody’s Lunch Box (Photo: Disney Parks)Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Photo: Destinations in Florida)
I’ll keep you posted as more information becomes available on this latest addition to Toy Story Land.
What do you think? Are you looking forward to a new table service restaurant coming to Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Please comment below with your thoughts.
The good news? Disney has released a new limited time offer featuring free dining for Disney Visa Cardholders. The not-as-good news? It is an EXTREMELY limited promotion, and features a very short travel window. However, if you are a Disney Visa Cardmember, and you are available to travel August 1 – 21, 2019, you might want to JUMP on this new free dining promotion.
A couple of things to be aware of: Any time Disney offers a big promotion, they are offering it to stimulate travel to the parks during a certain period. This USUALLY means projected park attendance and resort reservation bookings are lower than Disney wants them to be for that time period. While this doesn’t necessarily mean light crowds, it most likely means LIGHTER crowds. Of course, if tons of people take advantage of the promotion, crowds could be CRAZY by the dates of travel. But generally speaking, Disney offers promotions for periods where they are projecting attendance to be down.
This particular travel window closes before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on August 29, 2019. However, there are still a lot of great reasons to visit Disney World this year. Click here to check out my top five reasons to visit Disney World in 2019.
Free Dining for Disney Cardmembers
You can get free dining when you purchase a four-night/five-day Walt Disney resort and theme park ticket package that includes the Park Hopper option. If you book your package at a Value or Moderate resort, you will receive the Quick Service Dining Plan. If you book your package for a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa resort, you will receive the regular Dining Plan.
You MUST book your vacation by June 16, 2019 to take advantage of this offer.
Your vacation must begin between August 1 and August 21, 2019.
You MUST book your vacation using your Disney Visa card.
Theme park tickets purchased with this package are valid for admission beginning the day of check-in, and must be used within a limited period of time, depending on length of stay and ticket.
Here are the resorts that are eligible for this promotion, along with which Dining Plan you would get if you booked your vacation at that resort.
Disney’s Art of Animation Family Suite (Photo: Disney Parks)
Select Disney Value Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites Only
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Select Disney Moderate Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
The California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Select Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Dining Plan
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Select Disney Deluxe Villa Resort Hotels – FREE Disney Dining Plan
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Quick Service Dining Plan vs. Dining Plan
If you book your package at a Value or Moderate Resort hotel, you will receive the Quick Service Dining Plan for free with your package. The Quick Service Dining Plan includes two quick service meals and two snacks per person in your room, for each night of your stay. Several beverage options are available–including non-alcoholic specialty beverages and beer, wine and cocktails for those guests who are 21 or older.
If you book your package at a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort, you will receive the Disney Dining plan with your package for free. The Disney Dining Plan includes one quick service meal, one table service meal and two snacks per person in your room, for each night of your stay. You can use table service credits for Character Dining and other special dining experiences. Several beverage options are available–including non-alcoholic specialty beverages and beer, wine and cocktails for those guests who are 21 or older.
The Fine Print
This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
An additional charge may apply if you have more than two adults per room (any one over the age of 9) in a Disney Value, Moderate, Deluxe, or Deluxe Villa Resorts.
This offer excludes the following room types: 3 bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creed Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows at Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Children ages 3 -9 MUST order from the Children’s Menu, if there is a Children’s Menu available.
Everyone in the same room must be on the same package.
Must use a valid Disney Visa Card or a Disney Rewards Redemption Card to pay the deposit. The Disney Visa Cardmember must stay in the room.
Availability at table service restaurants is not guaranteed. Advance reservations are recommended and availability is not guaranteed.
Gratuities are not included.
Food For Thought
Many Disney vacationers LOVE the Disney Dining Plan. They love being able to budget and essentially “prepay” for the majority of their meals before their trip, and know that they won’t need to spend a whole lot of money
Character Breakfast at the Crystal Palace at the Magic Kingdom (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
on food during their vacation. If you fall into this category, and are already a fan of the Disney Dining Plan or the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan, and are already accustomed to making Advanced Dining Reservations 180 days before your trip, you are likely a good candidate for the Free Dining Promotion.
Conversely, if you tend to order in groceries, and eat a lot of meals in your room, or pack picnic lunches for your family to enjoy at the parks, you are most likely NOT a good candidate for the Free Dining Promotion.
It’s important to think about how your family dines on a Disney vacation. Do you eat in table service (sit down) restaurants for most meals? Or, do you eat primarily quick service meals? Do you do many character meals? What about sharing meals? Does your family like to snack? Are you big Mickey Bar or Popcorn fans? Are you comfortable planning your meals in advance?
Chef Mickey Character Breakfast at Disney’s Contemporary Resort (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
While the promotion is called “Free” Dining, it’s also important to recognize that by getting the dining package for “free”, you are paying full price for your room and park tickets. You are saving a LOT of money on meals, so it is a substantial savings in many, many cases–but again, it’s really important to evaluate how YOU and YOUR family vacations.
If you tend to eat more meals in the room, or pack picnic lunches, you likely will get a bigger savings from a room or package discount that does NOT include free dining.
I Can Help Make Planning Your Trip Easier!
One of the advantages of working with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner is that we have access to ALL the available discounts out there at any one time, whether Disney is actively promoting them or not. We can run comparisons for you to determine what you’ll save by booking your trip with one promotion or another. There is no cost to you to work with an authorized Disney Vacation planner to plan your vacation, and often, we have access to discounts or resort information that is not available to the general public. Working with an authorized Disney Vacation Planner will always save you headaches and aggravation, and will usually save you money as well!
In addition, we have the ability to monitor our reservations and as new promotions are released, update those reservations when it will save our customers money. For example, for all my clients that have reservations booked with me for later this year, we’ve already looked at the free dining promotion to see if it makes sense for them–and where it did, we’ve made the changes.
I don’t just love planning Disney vacations, I am obsessed with making every vacation the best it can possibly be. Planning a great Disney vacation takes time and energy and PLANNING. For a lot of busy people, that sounds like too much work. If that’s you, let me do it for you! Email me today to learn more.
To get more information, please reach out today: brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
Disney has announced another special promotion to attract guests to Walt Disney World this summer. While this is not a regular “Free Dining” promotion, this promotion DOES include one FREE quick service meal per day per guest for each night of your stay. This promotion can potentially mean significant savings for your family. Would you like free meals on your summer vacation? Read on…
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge does not open until AFTER this promotion ends; however, there are still LOTS of reasons to visit Walt Disney World this year. Check out this post for my top 5 reasons to visit Disney World in 2019!
The Details
This offer is available to guests purchasing a four-night/five-day room and theme park ticket package at select Disney Moderate and Value Resort hotels.
This offer is valid for arrivals most nights between May 28 and August 21, 2019.
The package must be booked by June 30, 2019.
Disney’s Magic Kingdom (Photo: Brooke Hudson)
Theme park tickets are valid for admission, beginning on the date of check-in, and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of stay and ticket.
Each quick service meal includes one entrée and one non-alcoholic beverage (or, if over age 21, one beer, wine or cocktail, if available).
The Fine Print
This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
This offer excludes Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and campsites.
Children ages 3 -9 MUST order from the Children’s Menu, if there is a Children’s Menu available.
Most beer, wine and cocktails are included, if available at chosen quick service venue. Some exceptions do apply. Guests must present valid ID to be served alcoholic beverages. Beverages may ONLY be redeemed with the quick service meal.
Gratuities are not included.
Food For Thought
It’s important to consider how you and your family dine on vacation to determine if this offer will be a value for you. If you usually eat meals in Disney Parks, and frequently choose quick service options, this offer could definitely fit your family, and save you money. Alternatively, if you prefer to eat every meal at a full service restaurant, you could save money with this offer, but you might not be happy as at least one of your meals each day would be a quick-service meal.
If you usually make sandwiches or leave Disney property to eat, this offer might not be for you. There are a couple of other promotions running at this time. We can check and see if one of those might be a better fit.
Generally, when one hears “free”, it always seems like a terrific deal. In this case, I think a free meal for each member of your party IS a really good deal. However, it’s important to consider how you like to travel. Also, you should consider what you normally spend on food on vacation. These factors help determine if this “free meal” promotion is a good deal for YOU.
Can I Help You?
If you’re considering a family vacation to Walt Disney World this summer, I’d love to help you book and plan that wonderful vacation. As part of my free-to-you service, I am happy to check pricing on this package. In addition, I can also review your specific travel plans, and take a look at any other discount offers currently available. I want to make sure you get the best possible value for your family.
An added bonus: When you book with me, I monitor your vacation against any new discounts that are released. I’m able to apply new discounts to your trip if they work for your trip and save you money. Basically, if new discounts become available before you travel, I have access to your reservation and the Disney system to see if you can benefit from the new discount. If so, I make it happen!
To get more information, please reach out today: brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.
It’s time to think about SHOPPING. Recently, Disney has released some information regarding the exclusive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise we can expect to find once the new lands open.
We’ve seen just the tip of iceberg, but there is some pretty exciting stuff coming. The initial fan response to all these goodies when they got to see them at the recent Star Wars Celebration in Chicago was very excited. I think my original prediction that Disney is going to get ALL our money is definitely on track!
Disney is promising that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will feature the same merchandise. Regardless of which park you visit, you won’t have to worry about missing out on something amazing.
The Resistance and the First Order
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Park Exclusive Merchandise (Photo: Disney Parks)
The first look at the park exclusive merchandise for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge focuses primarily on Resistance and First Order themed items. There are Resistance fighter pilot and Storm Trooper helmets. There are weapons and supplies favored by both sides. Also, there are uniforms and accessories that any Resistance fighter or First Order soldier would be proud to wear.
Take a look at this video, released by Disney Parks. It gives a great look at some of this park exclusive merchandise.
The FUN Stuff
After giving us a look at the Resistance and First Order themed items, Disney gave us a chance to see some of the more “fun” products that will be for sale exclusively in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge stores and market stalls.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Exclusive Merchandise (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney has told us that there will be four primary locations in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge where Star Wars fans will want to look for these exclusive items.
Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers I suspect Savi’s Workshop will be an extremely popular destination. This may be a place Mom and Dad will want to avoid if they don’t want to spend $$ on a lightsaber! The workshop Master will guide guests to customize and build their own lightsaber, while instructing them on the ways of the Jedi. (Yep, ALL the money).
Droid Depot Similarly, for those of us that adore R2D2 and BB8, the Droid Depot is bound to be financially dangerous! Here, you’ll be able to choose parts and construct your own droid to join you as you explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Then, your new friend will go with you to your home world.
First Order Cargo This hangar bay serves as a “temporary” base and landing spot for the First Order. The officers have brought in extra supplies and gear to help win the hearts and minds of locals and visitors. (And your $$ will no doubt help fund the Dark Side).
Resistance Supply Local resistance sympathizers and Resistance members manage a stall that supplies Resistance uniforms, gear and supplies.
In addition to this four “main” locations, there are also several market stalls which will sell a variety of exclusive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise and goodies.
Toydarian Toymaker Toy Sample, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Photo: Disney Parks)
Black Spire Outfitters (clothing)
The Jewels of Bith (accessories and trinkets)
Creature Stall (interesting critters to take home)
Toydarian Toymaker (toys)
Here’s a second, longer video that Disney released, spotlighting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge exclusive merchandise. This one focuses more on the toys and collectibles that we’ll be DYING to get our hands on! (ALL the money).
Pricing and Budget?
As I’m sure you have guessed, Disney has NOT yet released any pricing on ANY of these items. However, given the BILLIONS of dollars they’ve spent on park expansions over the last few years, not to mention the GIANT investment in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge? Yes, I’m thinking most of this stuff will have price tags that will make most of us uncomfortable, if not downright terrified.
If you’ve been in any of the Disney parks recently, you know that Disney parks merchandise is not necessarily budget friendly. The Disney Ears headbands that have become so popular in recent years now start at $23. Basic T-shirts usually start around $25, and long sleeve T-shirts and sweatshirts usually range from $40 – $70. Even keychains, pens and magnets, which used to be the go-to budget souvenirs, aren’t so budget friendly anymore, with many priced over $10. As much as we love it, Disney is still a business. If they can get us to pay $40 for a T-shirt and $30 for Ears, you can bet they will do it.
So while I don’t actually know any pricing yet for any of the oh-so-intriguing items shown above in the pictures and videos, I feel reasonably confident that there won’t be much under $20. In fact, I suspect there will be a LOT over $100. I could be wrong. Oh boy, I REALLY hope I’m wrong. There are several things already on my wish list 😉! As I learn more about new merchandise and pricing, I will of course share with all of you.
But come on, do you agree with me yet? Disney is going to get ALL our money. Seriously, ALL of it. 😉
What’s on YOUR List?
Did any of this stuff grab you? Or are you impervious to the draw of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise? Is there anything that you REALLY want to see in person? Are you already planning a Star Wars merchandise budget for your next trip?
I’d love to hear your thoughts, so please comment below!
Happy Dreaming,
Brooke
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!
PS: If you’d like to check out my most recent updates on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, please click on one of the topics below:
We probably should have expected this, but somehow I didn’t. Disney, Lucasfilm and Coca-Cola have worked together to create specially themed beverage packaging for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. I have to admit, I really love this. I can’t shake the feeling that the Dark Side is DEEPLY involved, but I still really love this!
Coca-Cola has been partnered with Disney Parks since the grand opening of Disneyland Park in 1955. That partnership has worked really well for both Empires, I mean corporations 😉. Disney and Coca-Cola have both made lots of money from this relationship, and I think we can fully expect that to continue WELL into the future.
Coca Cola Store, Disney Springs (Photo Credit: elisfkc, Orlando, FL)
Total Immersion in EVERY Area
For months we have been talking about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. We’ve talked at length about how much farther Disney Imagineering is going with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in terms of details and guest immersion in the Star Wars experience.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon- Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)
We’ve seen pictures of cast costumes that enable cast members to build characters and make themselves part of the story, and we’ve seen photos and videos that show us that Galaxy’s Edge will truly be unlike anything Disney has done before.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Costumes Photo Credit: Disney Parks
We’ve learned there will be beverage stations selling the famed blue milk from Star Wars, and we’ve seen pictures of specially themed drinks and cocktails–all designed to keep guests fully immersed in the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge experience.
Marketing for a New Galaxy
But the Imagineers and marketing gurus planning all the magic for us in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge knew there was one area that was a glaring “meanwhile, back on earth” disruption. Coca-Cola and other coke products for sale in the parks. Guests want their bottled water and their cokes, but can you imagine those bright red paper cups with the Coca-Cola logo on them? Or all those blue Dasani water bottles everywhere. Not exactly what Resistance fighters would expect to see, that is for sure.
Fortunately for us, Disney, LucasFilm and Coca-Cola were two steps ahead. They worked together to create a solution that fits right in to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Even better, it WON’T immediately remind you that you’re at a theme park.
Check these out!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Coca-Cola Products Photo Credit: Disney Parks
Are these creative or what?? I am honestly blown away with the detail and the look and feel for these. These bottles are PERFECT for Black Spire Outpost merchants to be selling on the streets and in the restaurants. I love that Disney and Coca-Cola planned for this. You just KNOW people are going to be collecting these. I bet there will be special editions for special events or years or something. And of course I noticed that the soft drink bottles look a little on the small side. Which means we will all be buying LOTS of them. Yes, the Empire will be getting ALL our money. But we already knew that, didn’t we?
This is a relatively small detail, but it shows just how far Disney is going to make sure that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is truly exceptional. Every single piece of information we get just further demonstrates that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be like no other land that Disney has ever given us before.
Disney Imagineering is known for creating magic with details, but with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge looks like the details are just the beginning. I truly believe that we are all going to absolutely lose our minds when we finally get to be inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. At least those of us that are Star Wars fans, that is.
I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke
I know it’s only soft drinks and water. But to me, it feels like really fabulous frosting on a truly amazing chocolate cake. The cake is really, really good, even without the frosting. Oh my goodness, that frosting adds that extra YUM.
What do YOU think? Is this a detail that gets you excited to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge? Or is it one step too far for the Dark Side? Please like this post and comment below. I would LOVE to hear your thoughts!
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. If you’d like to check out some of my other Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge updates, here are some links:
Disney Skyliner testing continues, and appears to be going very well, as we discussed in our last Skyliner update post. In this week’s Disney Skyliner Update, we get an up close and personal look at the gondolas themselves. Disney is now calling the gondolas “guest cabins”, and this week, we get to look inside a Disney Skyliner Guest Cabin!
Up Close with a Skyliner Guest Cabin
Disney Skyliner Guest Cabin Photo Credit: Disney Parks
As I mentioned last week, Disney is now sending a few guest cabins through the Skyliner system uncovered. A few cabins have been seen in the testing without their off-white protective coverings. So far, we haven’t seen any cabins actually decked out with the promised Disney characters out on the lines testing.
This week, Disney has more information about the guest cabins themselves. For the first time, Disney is taking us INSIDE a Skyliner guest cabin and answering some of the questions we’ve all been asking. Here’s what we know now, based on this latest information.
Guest cabins will have a maximum guest capacity of 10 guests per cabin
Cabins feature bench seating for guests, similar to what we’re used to on the monorail, the Walt Disney World Railroad, and other similar transportation options
Guest cabins are wheelchair accessible
Cabins do NOT have in cabin air conditioning or heating
Guest cabins do have small windows that open to let air circulate and provide cross ventilation
All guest cabins will feature Disney characters in specially shaded and reflective graphics to help protect the cabins from direct sunlight
Disney is confident that the cabins will be comfortable, even on very hot Florida days
Guest cabins will be eight different colors
Guest cabins will feature character graphics from all Disney owned properties, including classic Disney favorites, Marvel Studios and LucasFilm, including the Star Wars characters
The Skyliner system is intended to be constantly moving
There will be approximately 300 cabins in the Skyliner system
Look Inside a Disney Skyliner Guest Cabin
Disney has released a video giving you an inside look at the Skyliner guest cabins. Take a tour:
Transit Time on Disney Skyliner System
While of course we don’t have any actual riders in the system yet, we do have some idea on transit times using the Skyliner System.
Disney is still doing their very through testing. We could see SOME impact on these transit numbers once they start testing with people. It will be very interesting to see if the system will truly be able to operate continuously, once it starts testing with people.
Disney Skyliner System Testing Photo Credit: Amy Micari
Disney says we can expect transit times of five to fifteen minutes on the Skyliner System, depending on our origin and destination points. The Skyliner Transportation system will transport guests from four Disney Resorts to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The four Disney resorts being served are Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s new Riviera Resort (opening later this year).
Opening Date?
We still don’t have an official opening date for guests for the Disney Skyliner System. Disney will have to complete their current round of system and cabin tests, first. Once this round is over, testing with people will begin. If those tests go as smoothly as anticipated, I believe it won’t be long before we get some official announcements with actual opening dates, at least for some sections of the system.
Officially, we’re still being told “Fall 2019”; however I’ll be surprised if we don’t see at least some kind of soft open by August. I believe Disney will want the Skyliner System fully up and running when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens on August 29.
Disney Skyliner Gondola Graphics featuring characters from Toy Story, Star Wars, Guardians of the Galaxy and even fan favorites Donald and Daisy!
What do you think? Are you getting excited about the Disney Skyliner System? Please like this post, and comment below with your thoughts about the cabins!
We knew it was coming. Disney has announced the final show date for Epcot’s long running nighttime entertainment spectacular, IllumiNations Reflections of Earth. Knowing this announcement was coming didn’t make hearing the actual date of the final show any easier.
The final show of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth will be September 30, 2019.
IllumiNations Reflections of Earth to End September 30, 2019
An Important Part of Epcot History
IllumiNations Reflections of Earth premiered in October 1999 as part of the Walt Disney World Millennium Celebration. Airing nightly for almost 20 years, IllumiNations has been an integral component of hundreds of thousands of family vacations. (And probably MILLIONS of photographs–in my collection alone!)
IllumiNations starts every night at 9 pm, and takes place on the World Showcase Lagoon. One of the great things about the show is that there are great viewing spots for the show all the way around the Lagoon. The show is filled with fireworks, lasers, pyrotechnics, beautiful music, screen projections, and dancing water. IllumiNations is a 14 minute show that never fails to move me, no matter how many times I have seen it.
Frank and I love IllumiNations so much, we even included it as part of our wedding day for our guests! At the end of our wedding day, we hosted a private dessert party in the United Kingdom pavilion for our guests because we wanted to make sure everyone had an opportunity to see this wonderful show.
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It was a wonderful way to end our wedding day, but IllumiNations has been a beautiful way to end countless Epcot days over the years. Many families watch from the same spot every time, while others try to watch from different countries each time. I’ve found the show looks different from the Fast Pass viewing area than it does from the UK or Germany, for example, at least to me. Even the way the torches light in front of each country’s pavilion, and each pavilion lights up near the end of the show touches my heart. It just feels like the whole world coming together in that moment.
I’m really going to miss you, IllumiNations Reflections of Earth!
Inside Disney Parks “Live” Stream of IllumiNations
Inside Disney Parks live streamed last night’s showing of IllumiNations Reflections of Earth. While there is other “stuff” included in the stream, the entire show is included here in all it’s high definition video glory. It’s not quite as good as being there, of course, but if you won’t get a chance to get down to Epcot to see it one last time before it closes, this might help.
IllumiNations starts at about 6:40.
What’s Next?
On October 1, 2019, Epcot’s new show will debut. It’s called Epcot Forever, and promises to include music from favorite Epcot attractions from the entire history of Epcot. Imagineers are promising the new show will include many of the elements we have loved from Illuminations–fireworks, lasers, dancing water, pyrotechnics–and more, new technologies that we haven’t seen before. They’ve promised dancing kites in the sky, and tell us the new show is going to be a kind of “fusion” of all the things we’ve loved in the past and a celebration of the new things that are coming to Epcot in the future.
I guess we will have to wait and see. I’m sure the new show will be spectacular.
Twenty years has been a good long run for IllumiNations Reflections of Earth, but I’m still sad to see it go. I know, I know. Change is GOOD. Right? Really, I know. Change is good. I’ll just keep telling myself that….
Are You Ready for Epcot Forever?
So are you ready for the new show? Or are you sad the old show is leaving? Did you know this was coming, or did this announcement of an IllumiNations Reflections of Earth final show date catch you off guard?
What are your favorite memories from IllumiNations Reflections of Earth? Any magic moments that you’ll never forget?
If you are a fan of Epcot nighttime entertainment, please click “Like” below and share if you are excited about the new show.
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. If you’d like to plan a visit to Disney this summer to catch Illuminations Reflections of Earth, I would love to help plan your trip. Disney has select Resort Hotels at 25%, and other offers are available. Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com today!
Hello everyone! Lots of updates coming this weekend. I’ve been down with the most awful flu, so I’m a bit behind and I have SO much to tell you guys!!! First up: Disney Skyliner Updates! Disney is moving full speed ahead with their Skyliner testing. Initial tests primarily involved the main line from Caribbean Beach station to Hollywood Studios; however, Skyliner vehicles are now being tested throughout the entire system!
Pop Century/Art of Animation Station
The Skyliner station located between Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is looking great. In even better news, it’s now part of the Skyliner testing, and Skyliner vehicles are moving in and out of the station and along the Skyliner system.
Skyliner Station Pop Century/Art of Animation Photo Credit: Amy Micari
Here is a short video of Skyliner testing in action at this station:
Here’s a closer look at the Station itself:
Disney Skyliner Station at Pop Century/Art of Animation Photo Credit: Amy Micari
First Look at Gondolas Unveiled!
Last week, Disney started sending a few of the Skyliners through the testing loops without their off-white covers. The gondolas don’t yet have their “character” window dressings, but it’s fun to see them moving through the air looking like actual vehicles instead of fabric bubbles.
Disney Skyliner Gondolas: Testing Photo Credit: Amy MicariDisney Skyliner Gondola Live Testing Photo Credit: Amy Micari
The gondolas are also moving through the system at their full speed, instead of the very slow speeds they were moving during the initial phase of testing. Testing seems to be going very well, overall.
Fall 2019?
So the big question remains. With testing going so well with unmanned gondolas, at what point will Disney begin testing the gondolas with actual victims (I mean people 😉)? I am sure they have to meet very vigorous safety standards of their own, in addition to those of the state and federal government (in general, Disney’s safety standards are often higher than basic government standards).
Disney has not released an official opening date for the Skyliner transportation system yet. The only information they have provided so far is “Fall 2019”. However, with the opening date for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge bumped up to August 29 from “Late Fall”, I can’t help but wonder if Disney might be REALLY interested in having some additional transportation methods in place when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens, or very shortly thereafter. Not to mention, many people will (I suspect) view the Skyliner system as an attraction, not just a transportation system, so it will be another “crowd absorbing” measure, and we can never have too many of those!
My personal theory is that Disney is going to try and have testing completed and the Skyliner system ready for at least a soft open by late August. I have no insider information that makes me think that–they have not released any information to us yet. That is just my gut feeling, based on everything else that is going on around the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and increased crowd projections we are seeing for the fourth quarter, based on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge being open at Hollywood Studios.
Obviously the entire system will not be functional at that time: The fourth arm of the system is the new DVC resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, which is taking reservations for December at this time. So likely, that station will not be open until the resort actually opens to guests, although I’m sure it will be testing during the Fall.
Disney Skyliner System Testing Photo Credit: Amy Micari
Final Thoughts
What do you think? Do you think the Skyliner system will open ahead of schedule? Are you excited to check it out? Will you be more likely to stay in a resort that is attached to a Skyliner station to have access to the Skyliner system?
Please comment below. I’m really curious to know if the Skyliner system will have any impact on where you want to stay. I’m a pretty die hard Magic Kingdom resort girl, but I’m very intrigued by the Skyliner system. I think I will plan a visit to a Skyliner based resort, just to see what impact staying at a Skyliner station resort (Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, or Disney’s Art of Animation Resort) has on my experience. Mainly so I can take lots of pictures and videos and report back to you guys, of course!!
Let me know what you think!
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Help Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!
P.S. If you want to review any of our previous Disney Skyliner System Updates, take a look at these posts:
Today’s Construction Update focuses on Tron at Magic Kingdom.
Announced in Summer 2017, there hasn’t been a lot of activity surrounding the Tron coaster-style attraction coming to the Magic Kingdom. I suspect this is partly because Tron doesn’t have the big fanbase that Disney once hoped it would have, and partly because so much attention has been focused on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, opening this summer at Disneyland and Hollywood Studios.
This is probably a positive thing, we haven’t all been driving Disney crazy with the equivalent of “are we there yet?” for THIS attraction…unlike we did for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. (But hey, it worked, so I’m NOT complaining!)
Shanghai Disneyland’s #1 Attraction
The Tron attraction currently under construction at Magic Kingdom is based on TRON Lightcycle Power Run at Shanghai Disneyland. This attraction was an opening day attraction for Shanghai Disneyland. TRON is a giant hit for Shanghai Disneyland.
Shanghai Disneyland’s TRON Lightcycle Power Run
TRON Lightcycle Power Run is a coaster-style attraction that has passengers ride a train of two wheeled Lightcycles for a race through the digital frontier. Just like the movie, I guess. Although both Tron movies kind of confused me…I really liked the original one, though. Did any of you see the original Tron (1982) or it’s sequel, Tron Legacy (2010)?
TRON Lightcycle Power Run is the highest rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland. I’m guessing that led the powers-that-be to consider if the attraction could be a good fit another park.
Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom
It makes sense right? A popular attraction, already designed and tested. Some changes might be necessary, but basically, the heavy lifting is already done for the attraction. Imagineering already did the design, the creative work, choosing the materials, the budget, the schematics, the plans, even the way the queue works–all that’s been done before. Construction even knows what problems came up during that phase, and how they were solved.
But where to put the new attraction? It make sense in Hollywood Studios, because it’s based on a movie property…but Hollywood Studios is currently getting all the focus for Star Wars, so maybe NOT there. Epcot Future World might be a good fit–the whole digital frontier thing is vaguely futuristic…of course the original movie is almost forty years old at this point. AND there’s already a TON of stuff happening at Epcot (see last week’s post), so maybe it’s not the best choice either.
Disneyland in California is currently using a LOT of space for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, so maybe not there. California Adventure just finished the whole Pixar themed update….so maybe not there.
Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World hasn’t gotten anything new in a LONG time. And we have some room over there next to Space Mountain, on the side… WINNER!
Ok, I have no idea if that’s how the decision making process went AT ALL. But it’s fun to think about, isn’t it? Bottom line, they decided to bring Tron to Magic Kingdom, and they’re making room for it by basically expanding the footprint of the Magic Kingdom. Disney is putting Tron next to Space Mountain, into some unused land between Tomorrowland and Storybook Circus.
Tron Billboard, visible from Storybook Circus
Impact on Nearby Attractions
To accommodate construction on Tron at Magic Kingdom, a few other attractions ARE being affected.
Tomorrowland Speedway: This one is pretty short term. The Tomorrowland Speedway closed in January 2019, and is expected to re-open mid May 2019. Disney is moving and/or re-routing the track to make room for Tron.
Walt Disney World Railroad: This is painful one. The Walt Disney World Railroad is closed for at least the next year, possibly longer. To soften the blow, Disney plans to park the train at the Main Street station, and allow guest to explore the train and take pictures with it. But the lovely and relaxing (one of my FAVORITE ways to take a break) ride around the circumference of the park is not possible for the foreseeable future. They haven’t officially said, but I believe some track has to be re-routed and they don’t want the trains coming through the construction areas. Sigh. I’m excited about a new attraction, but very bummed about no train for a long period of time.
UNOFFICIAL: I haven’t been there to verify this, but there is a walking path between Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland that I suspect may be impacted by Tron construction as well. This area is often inundated with smokers, so it’s not the quiet restful path it once was. It’s always been a pretty good “cut-through” or short-cut. However, the path runs right next to the train tracks for a bit, and then along the Tomorrowland Speedway track as it approaches Space Mountain. I have a hard time believing this area has been left untouched and accessible, but I will confirm for you first chance I get.
Progress Update
Tron at Magic Kingdom: Milestone Reached
This week, the first steel support columns were put in place for the new attraction. Prior to the columns being put in place, cast members and team members working on bringing Tron at Magic Kingdom to reality celebrated a major milestone. They were invited to sign their names on one of the columns, making their “permanent mark” on the attraction. Wouldn’t that be cool? To know forever that a tiny piece of you, your signature, was part of that attraction? I think that would be pretty thrilling!
Disney hasn’t been too committal on when we can expect to take our first ride on Tron at Magic Kingdom. However, Disney is promising that the new Tomorrowland attraction WILL be open in time for the 50th Anniversary celebration in 2021.
I’m happy to see that Disney continues to invest in new attractions and expansions to our favorite parks. As crowds continue to grow, I think it’s more important than ever that new attractions arrive to absorb more people.
How do you feel about Tron at Magic Kingdom? Is this an attraction that you’re excited to check out? Were you a fan of the Tron movies?
Please comment below and let me know if you’ll be eager to check this one out when it comes on line!
This is really big news all my lovely Disney trip planners and dreamers!!! Just moments ago, Disney announced Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge OPENING DATES at BOTH Disneyland and Hollywood Studios!!!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open, AHEAD OF SCHEDULE, on May 31 at Disneyland in California. At Hollywood Studios in Florida, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open AUGUST 29–this is MONTHS before we’d anticipated!
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Artist’s Rendering
This is so exciting, I am freaking out right now. However, this isn’t ALL rainbows and roses.
Disney has decided to open ahead of schedule in response to the overwhelming response and interest from guests that want to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which is terrific. BUT the reality is that everything will not really be ready by these earlier than projected dates. So Disney has decided to open Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Phases.
Phase One, Opening Day
On opening day, guests will be able to get into Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. You’ll explore merchant shops and talk to the people living and working on Black Spire Outpost. You’ll taste galactic food and beverages unlike anything you’ve tried before.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon- Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)
Perhaps most importantly, you’ll be able to experience the first attraction of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run. You’re going to be able to get on board the Millennium Falcon, and take the controls and have your own adventure aboard the ship that has starred in so many of our beloved movies and our dreams for so long….
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Millennium Falcon – Smuggler’s Run (Photo: Disney Parks)
Phase Two, Later This Year
Later this year, the second attraction, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, will open. This attraction has been touted as the most ambitions, immersive and advanced attraction ever imagined. It’s going to put you in the middle of a battle between the Resistance and First Order.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)
Disney released this video earlier today:
What We Can Expect: Limited Capacity
Guests planning to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland between opening day (May 31) and June 23, 2019 will need valid Disneyland park admission and they will be required to make a no-cost reservation, subject to availability, to access Galaxy’s Edge. Disney has not released information yet on how to make these no-cost reservations; I will update you as soon as I know more!
Guests staying at one of the three Disneyland Resort hotels during this period (May 31-June 23) will received a reservation to access Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge during their stay (one reservation per registered guest); Disneyland Park admission is still required.
Capacity will be limited for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for both Disneyland and Hollywood Studios. Currently, Disney says no reservations will be required to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios. Also, Disney says Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be open during Extra Magic Hours for resort guests. More details will be released soon (and as soon as they are, I will share!).
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Rise of the Resistance (Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks)
So…Who’s Going to Be There Opening Day?
I cannot begin to tell you guys how excited I am about this news! I honestly believed Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge would open in late June at Disneyland, and most likely would open at Hollywood Studios in mid December. This is CRAZY to me that they are this close to being ready to open, even in Phases!!! I will keep scouring all my Disney sources for more news, and will update you as soon as I know more!
How excited are you by this news? I’m about to BURST! Are you currently checking your calendar and rearranging your life to see if you can be there for opening day?
Happy Dreaming!
Brooke
Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!
P.S. Don’t forget, if you’d like to book a Disneyland or Walt Disney World vacation, I’d love to help! Using me to book your reservation ensures you get the best availability and rates Disney has to offer, and booking with me doesn’t cost you anything–Disney pays me! AND, if any discounts come out that could save you money before your trip, I’ll apply those discounts in the Disney system to save you money! Contact me today at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com!
P.P.S If you missed last week’s article on cast member costumes for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you can check it out here.
Most beer, wine and cocktails are included, if available at chosen quick service venue. Some exceptions do apply. Guests must present valid ID to be served alcoholic beverages. Beverages may ONLY be redeemed with the quick service meal.
