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Disney PhotoPass: What is it and How Does it Work?

Today we are going to talk about Disney PhotoPass, and Disney’s Memory Maker product.

We released a video over on YouTube for today’s topic. Here’s that video:

If you prefer to read this information, keep reading!

Disney PhotoPass and Disney Memory Maker

One question I get asked a lot from my clients and friends and family is “Should we purchase the Memory Maker?” The short answer? It depends.

Ok, for me, it’s pretty much always YES. BUT, I’m a HUGE photo nerd.

For more NORMAL people, there are several things to consider, and I will get to those in tomorrow’s video. Today we are going to start with the basics: What is Disney PhotoPass and how does it work? In tomorrow’s video (Part 2 in this series), we will focus on the memory maker product, and will answer the question of whether or not to buy.

But first for those of you that DON’T know, let’s start with:

What is Disney PhotoPass?

Disney PhotoPass is a service that Disney added years ago, and I think it’s absolute GENIUS. Basically, they have photographers stationed at numerous locations around each park to take pictures of you and your group.

This completely solves the “Did Mom even GO on that vacation? She’s not in ANY of the pictures” dilemma. For many families, there is always one person that takes all the pictures and they are never in any of the shots. Or, people rotate who takes the pictures, but there are never any pictures of EVERYONE together, because one person always steps out to take the picture. Most people don’t carry around tripods and take the time to set up timed tripod shots on vacation. For some, Selfies have helped to address this problem, but with a Selfie, it’s still really tough to get a group or to include people AND a landmark in the picture.

With PhotoPass, Disney has solved that problem. Basically, the PhotoPass photographer will take your group’s picture, usually with a park icon or landmark in the background, and then they will either scan your magic band (the easiest) or give you a PhotoPass card with a 16-digit number on the back. Note: If you are given a Photopass card, immediately take a picture of the back of the card just in case. If you lose the card, but have the number, you can still locate your pictures.

Not All PhotoPass Photos are Created Equal

A couple of caveats: The skill of the various photopass photographers varies. Some are very experienced, fun to work with, and very talented. Others are more point and click—with varying degrees of success. Therefore I always recommend that you get a LOT of photopass photos taken. Take advantage of the opportunities whenever they present themselves. Odds are, if you take a BUNCH of photopass pictures, you end up with at least a few you really like. Here are a couple examples of PhotoPass pictures that didn’t really work out so well.

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In NON COVID times, you could also ask the photographer to take a picture of your group with your phone or camera. This is not an option currently due to Covid related restrictions, but I’m assuming this option will return at some point in the future—but current rules prohibit the photographers from touching your phone or camera.

Disney PhotoPass and Special Moments

If you look on Facebook or the internet, you will see THOUSANDS of PhotoPass pictures that people have posted. There are tons of examples of people using PhotoPass to announce they have a baby on the way, the sex of the baby, that they got engaged or married.

In our case, my husband proposed to me at the Magic Kingdom after the fireworks. Because he’s brilliant, he surprised me with the proposal when we went to take a PhotoPass picture, so we have the moment captured forever.

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Are they great pictures? No, it was very crowded, and I at first thought he fell (he’d done the marathon the day before and was in a lot of pain), and then there was lots of crying and laughing. But I feel so lucky that I have that moment forever captured by that PhotoPass photographer. And the next day, we found another PhotoPass photographer that was SO excited about our engagement, she spent TONS of time with us (there was no line,I promise) and took a gazillion pictures of the ring, and the two of us. It was really fun.

Disney PhotoPass and Group Attractions

There are normally even photopass photographers at big group attractions (Enchanted Tales with Belle, for example). These attractions aren’t operating right now, but once they return, I’m sure the PhotoPass photographer will return with them.

The PhotoPass photographer takes lots of pictures of the group and they will hand out PhotoPass cards at the end; once you enter the number on your computer, you’ll have access to ALL the pictures they took during that particular event. If your kid had a role in the show, you do NOT want to lose that number! So take a picture of the back of the card, just in case!

Disney PhotoPass and Attraction Photos!

Lots of Disney rides take your picture at some point during the ride, some rides even take video! These pictures and videos are now PhotoPass pictures, and can be attached to your Magic Band or PhotoPass card. The RFID technology in your MagicBand communicates with the reader at the attraction and automatically adds the photos or videos to your account.

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Character Dining and PhotoPass?

Character dining can also (sometimes) include PhotoPass. Granted, right now, character dining isn’t happening, but it WILL return eventually, I promise! Some character dining meals offer PhotoPass pictures, but not all of them. Also IF there is a PhotoPass photographer at a character meal, it will usually just be for a picture you take before you enter the restaurant. For example, if you are dining at a Character Meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table, there is usually a Photopass photographer in the lobby with Cinderella waiting to take your picture before you head upstairs for your meal. (Please note that Cinderella’s Royal Table HAS reopened for lunch and dinner, however, Cinderella has NOT yet returned.)

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PhotoPass photographers do not go around with the characters as they visit your table at ANY character meal, so ALWAYS bring your camera to character meals.

Customize your Photos!

After your trip, you will be able to visit the PhotoPass website to view all your pictures. You can add borders and stickers to the photos, and you can make products like Photobooks, calendars and mugs featuring your pictures on the Disney PhotoPass website. One picture can easily turn into 10 or 15 by the time you are done playing with borders, cropping, black and white, etc. Some borders are unique to particular locations, seasons, or events, adding a little extra magic to those photos.

NOTE: Pictures are only available on the PhotoPass site for 30 days (unless you are an Annual Passholder.) Right now, if you are visiting this fall between October 15 and November 30, Disney is extending that 30 days through the end of the year. So you’ll have a little extra time to play with your pictures.

Magic Shots

Lets talk about Magic Shot. Magic Shots are pictures taken by a PhotoPass photographer with a little something extra magical added later. The most common Magic Shots feature TinkerBell standing on the palm of your hand, or a bunch of balloons added to your upstretched arm.

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There are a variety of Magic Shots available at different times. During Star Wars Weekend a few years ago, we got Magic Shots with light sabers added. Recently, they added some pirate themed Magic Shots near the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

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During the Halloween season, you might find Magic Shots with ghosts near the haunted mansion, or Flaming jack o lanterns throughout the Magic Kingdom. During the Winter holiday season, you may find snow or Wooden Soldiers added to your photos.

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Over at Hollywood Studios, we’ve learned there’s a new special magic shot that includes the child (frequently called baby Yoda, although he isn’t in fact Yoda) from the Mandolorian. Here’s a look at this one from Disney Parks and Resorts.

Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot Mandalorian — Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot – The Child, Mandalorian

Special holiday themed magic shots become available November 6.

Disney PhotoPass Photos and the My Disney Experience App

Disney PhotoPass pictures are available in the My Disney Experience app, so you’ll be able to look at them as your trip goes along. Most photos and videos appear in your app within 20 minutes.

Unless you’ve purchased the Memory Maker product, the pictures will have a watermark on them, preventing you from having a sharable, downloadable image without paying for it. If you’ve already purchased Memory Maker, your pictures will appear completely clear and fabulous.

One of the highlights of my last trip was overhearing a young family showing their daughter a picture they had just taken on Main Street. She was AMAZED to see that Tinkerbell had joined them in the picture and she was so dazzled by the magic!

Tips for Getting that “Magic” Shot

Disney changes what Magic Shots are available from time to time, and not all PhotoPass photographers will offer to do them. Your odds are better if there’s no line and if you’re nice and friendly. PhotoPass photographers work very hard, and are on their feet for many hours a day, usually in pretty hot temperatures and sometimes not treated very well by guests. In my experience, if you are nice and there’s not a line, they’re more likely to spend a few extra minutes with you, and that can often result in some Magic Shots. To see what Magic Shots are currently available, visit the albums at the Disney Photo Pass Facebook Page.

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Coming Up in the Next Video (And Post!)

In tomorrow’s video, we’ll talk about Memory Maker, and how you can have PhotoPass without Memory Maker, but you can’t have Memory Maker without PhotoPass.

Thank you for watching, and please tune in Monday for the second video (and blog post) in this series, discussing Disney’s Memory Maker product.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Parks News 11.04.20

In this week’s Disney Parks News, we have big changes coming for the virtual queue at Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. We also have Disneyland Paris closure news, and Disney’s official statement on the entertainment layoffs we saw last week. For these stories and more, please check out our YouTube video below.

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For those of you that prefer reading to watching, the written version is provided below. Last week’s Disney Parks News can be found here.

Disney Parks News

The Holidays have Arrived at Disney World!

Halloween is over and the Holidays have arrived at Walt Disney World! It’s amazing how quickly Disney makes the transition from Fall and Halloween décor to winter holiday décor.

Here is the full statement from Disney:

“Walt Disney World Resort offers a treasure trove of experiences for guests of all ages. We recognize that part of the magic of visiting any Disney park is seeing favorite Disney friends and discovering one-of-a-kind shows and performances. Since reopening, we’ve continued to offer modified character experiences and entertainment throughout our resort, while also taking the appropriate steps for the health and safety of our guests and cast members.

Recently, we’ve had to make some difficult decisions to reduce our workforce as the business impacts from the Covid-19 pandemic have become more long-lasting than anyone could have predicted. As a result, we’ve had to pause many live shows and entertainment experiences at our resort for longer than originally anticipated.

While it’s impossible at this time to fully replace the incredible entertainment that existed throughout our parks before the pandemic, we are offering live entertainment in new ways wherever possible, including character cavalcades in all four parks and pop-up appearances, like discovering Joy from “Inside Out” frolicking on the lawn near the Imagination! pavilion in EPCOT.

Additionally, we’re featuring modified shows such as the popular “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and live musical performances like the Main Street Philharmonic in Magic Kingdom or the Discovery Island Drummers at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This extends to our seasonal offerings, with Halloween underway and the holidays right around the corner. In fact, the fan-favorite Voices of Liberty are set to make their return and join the JAMMitors and Mariachi Cobre at the American Gardens Theatre during the upcoming Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, beginning on Nov. 27.

Determining which shows can return and when is a complex process. As with the rest of our phased reopening, we will also consider the guidance of health officials and government agencies in determining when the time will be right to adjust capacity, and as soon as it is appropriate, we will start to bring additional entertainment back.

Like most of our fans, we know that our beloved entertainment cast are an incredibly special and essential part of the Disney experience. We look forward to the day when we can welcome back more live entertainment to our parks, and we will share more news about these announcements as we’re able to do so.”

Reactions

I find this statement both disappointing and frustrating. Do I understand that Disney feels they cannot allow most shows to resume due to social distancing requirements? Honestly? Yes and no. They have been able to re-introduce the Frozen Sing Along Celebration successfully, and that’s a show. And many of the theatres in the parks are outdoor venues. It seems that some shows could return, with seating clearly marked and restricted to provide proper social distancing.

Disney Entertainment Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage — Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage (Photo: Disney Parks & Resorts)

To me, it seems almost convenient to blame the ongoing (and perhaps escalating) Covid-19 crisis as the reason there is almost no entertainment, rather than the more probably budget cuts. Why are the JAMMitors ok to perform in EPCOT on the Mill Stage in Canada, but not the amazing Taiko Matsuriza drummers in Japan?

Disney has also made a very important, very helpful change to the virtual queue situation. Now, guests who hope to ride Rise of the Resistance can request to enter the virtual queue at 7 am from their hotel room (or breakfast or wherever). The only thing that is required is a park reservation for Hollywood Studios that day (which of course requires a ticket).

Why does this change to the required location to join the virtual queue matter? Here’s why: OPTIONS. For example, let’s say you really want to ride Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. You have a park reservation for today, and you are planning to visit Hollywood Studios. Let’s say you try, but are unable to join the virtual queue and get a boarding group at 7am. Now, you have some OPTIONS.

- - You can go back to bed. You don’t need to make sure you are in Hollywood Studios by 10am.
  - Based on reservation availability, you could decide to save Hollywood Studios for a different day. In that scenario, you would cancel your Hollywood Studios park reservation. Then, you could book a new park reservation at a different park. (Note: I highly recommend you check park reservation availability before you pull this trigger.)
  - You might decide NOT to visit Hollywood Studios until the afternoon.
    - - Spend the morning playing at the pool
      - Enjoy a round of golf
      - Ride the Skyliner for a while
      - Relax at your resort
      - Visit Disney Springs

The 2 pm virtual queue does still exist. That virtual queue DOES require guests to be physically inside the park to join the queue.

Star Wars Rise of the Resistance Review — Star Wars Rise of the Resistance (Photo: Disney Parks)

It is my hope that these changes will loosen up the stranglehold that Rise of the Resistance has been having on visitors for months. With these changes, perhaps more guests will be able to ride. If that happens, theoretically fewer guests will crowd into Hollywood Studios in the hopes of riding that one attraction.

Our Upcoming Disney Vacation

Next week, we will be at Walt Disney World ourselves, and will be able to test out the new system. I will update you on our success (or lack thereof) with Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Next week’s Disney Parks News Update will be filmed while we are on site at Walt Disney World. As a result, the video may end up a little on the rough side. However, we will do our best to still get the video posted on Wednesday. Thank you in advance for your patience. We are really looking forward to updating you with our in person, on the ground experiences in the parks.

Happy dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Parks News Update 10.21.2020

In this week’s Disney Parks News Update, we learn that Disneyland may be forced to stay closed until next summer! We also talk new Disney world discounts for 2021, attraction refurbishments, the value resort that is reopening early next year and much more. Please check out this week’s video below.

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If you missed last week’s news, you can get it here.

For those of you that would rather read your news, please continue on.

Disney Parks News Update 10.21.20

Disneyland

This week’s top story is DISNEYLAND. We’ve all been waiting for months to find out when Disneyland in California would be allowed to reopen. Originally, Disney planned to reopen Disneyland and California Adventure in July, right after Walt Disney World reopened. However, those plans were not approved by Orange County or the State of California, and Disney had to push pause. Ever since, it’s been a waiting game for Disney fans, and a frustrating battle for Disney and Disney cast members that want to get back to work!

Yesterday, the state of California announced (finally) their guidelines for theme park re-openings in their state. The important part for Disney fans? Large theme parks cannot reopen until their home county (Orange County, for Disneyland and California Adventure) are in California’s YELLOW TIER.

Disney Parks News CA Covid Tiers — Table: covid19.ca.gov

To be in the yellow tier, the county must see less than 1 new Covid-19 case per 100,000 residents, and less than 2% positivity rate for tests. Right now, Orange County is in the red tier, reporting between 4 -7 new cases per day per 100,000 residents and a 5-8% positivity rate.

There is a long way to go for Orange county to get from the Red Tier to the Yellow Tier. Dr. Clayton Chau, Director of the Orange County Health Care Agency said, “…I think that we can look forward to a yellow tier by next summer, hopefully. Hopefully.”

Disneyland Monorail (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

What does this mean for Disneyland?

Based on current information, state policies, and recent Covid-19 trends in Orange County, CA, it appears that the soonest we can hope to see Disneyland and California Adventure reopen is sometime NEXT SUMMER (2021). This is obviously devastating news for the thousands of people employed by Disney to work in the two theme parks, as well as in the Disney owned hotels in the Disneyland area. However, there are COUNTLESS other business that are completely dependent on the tourist traffic that Disneyland brings to Anaheim. If Disneyland and California Adventure remain closed through next summer (or later), many of those businesses are doomed to fail. This will no doubt have a huge impact on the Anaheim economy, and by extension, on Orange County and Southern California.

Disneyland Hotel Disney Parks News Disneyland will NOT open in 2020 — Disneyland Hotel (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

Many Southern California officials, including Anaheim mayor Harry Sidhu and Disneyland President Ken Potrock have come out publicly against the new guidelines. I don’t think Disneyland or the other large California theme parks are likely to let these new guidelines go uncontested. I suspect we will be hearing a lot more about this in the coming weeks. For now, unfortunately, it appears impossible for Disneyland to reopen this year.

Walt Disney World

Moving over to Walt Disney World news, let’s talk about attractions.

Tomorrowland Transit Authority

One of my favorite attractions, the PeopleMover (Tomorrowland Transit Authority) over at the Magic Kingdom is definitely NOT going back online this year. The attraction was originally scheduled to be reopening in late October, which then got pushed back to late November. This week, that got pushed back AGAIN to early January. That is as far out as the current refurbishment schedule goes right now, so I suspect this particular attraction will not be open until sometime next spring. BUMMER.

The PeopleMover is a great attraction for many reasons: it absorbs a TON of people every hour as it is a constantly moving loading and unloading attraction. It’s also a TERRIFIC ride to sit and relax and give tired legs and feet a little break. On hot days, it’s also a great place to get some rest out of the sun and moves fast enough that you have a cooling breeze as you ride. Alas, no people mover for us anytime soon. {Sigh}

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Over at Epcot, we’ve been anxiously awaiting news on an opening date for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, along with the expanded France pavilion in World Showcase. Originally planned to open this Summer, Ratatouille’s opening got pushed back along with everything else when the parks closed this Spring. Disney has been completely MUM on when we can expect this attraction to open.

Disney Parks News — Ride Vehicle for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (Photo: Disney Parks)

Personally, I suspect Disney will hold off on opening this attraction until sometime next spring, when crowds are more likely to be at normal capacity (we hope) and Disney can get some good publicity (and hopefully guest reservations) in response to opening a new attraction. I’m disappointed, as I’d originally thought they would try to bring the attraction online in time for the holiday crowds, but with the parks still operating at such a big loss, I think it makes sense to hold off until the opening can be celebrated.

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure Gusteau's — Gustaeau’s Sign Installed in France Pavilion (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

You can see progress on the France pavilion expansion from the Skyliner—It’s looking really good. The Gusteau’s sign (from Ratatouille) has been installed. We’ve heard reports that it lights up at night, which is definitely progress. I’ll give you an update on this project with pictures from Epcot when we are there next month.

Tron Lightcycle/Run

It seems that this week’s Disney Parks News Update has more bad news for us. Another “under construction” project we’ve been keeping an eye on is the Tron Lightcycle Coaster in progress at the Magic Kingdom. This GIANT project has already been underway for a couple of years, and was long planned to be ready in time for next year’s big 50^th Anniversary of Walt Disney World.

Disney Tron Construction Update Artist Rendering — Disney Tron Attraction Coming to Magic Kingdom: Artist Rendering

Unfortunately, we are now hearing lots of rumors that construction is going to be suspended on this project later this year, and that it is extremely unlikely that this attraction will be ready in time for October 2021 and the big anniversary.

Tron Lightcycle Grid Installed — Tron Lightcycle/Run Grid Installed at Magic Kingdom (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

No official confirmation from Disney; however, if the rumors are true, I have to assume this is financially based decision. I’m not sure it’s a wise decision, as new attractions always bring in big crowds, but I think maybe they were hoping to see Disneyland reopened and increased crowds in Florida before Disney continues investing in this project. Just speculation at this point though. I will keep you posted as I learn more.

Winter/Summerland and Fantasia Mini Golf

In the category of non-theme park attractions, Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf is reopening for a limited time: November 6, 2020 – January 30, 2021. Winter Summerland features 2 18 hole miniature golf courses, each one themed to a season, either Winter or Summer. Adults are $14, Kids are $10.

Winter Summerland is reopening primarily to offset Fantasia Gardens closing for the season (primarily for cleaning and maintenance). Fantasia Gardens closes November 5, 2020 and will reopen January 31, 2021. These fun themed mini golf courses are a popular destination for families to visit on non-theme park days, or even during a break on a theme park day.

Walt Disney World License Plate

Here’s a fun Disney Parks News Update for Florida Residents. For the first time, the Walt Disney World Resort is going to be releasing a license plate in honor of their 50^th anniversary. The best part? Proceeds will go to the Make a Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida. Disney’s been working with Make a Wish for 40 years now, with more than 140,000 Disney inspired wishes granted since 1980. An average of 8,000 wishes are granted at Disney World every year.

Disney hasn’t shown us the design of the license plate just yet; however interested Florida car owners can purchase a presale voucher now for $25+state admin fees by appointment at local County Tax Collections or license plate facilities (DMVs). Online presale for the plates will be available soon!

Friendship Boats

In the good news category, Disney has been testing the Friendship boats over on Crescent lake. These are the boats that provide Disney resort guests in the boardwalk area with water transportation to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. While the Friendship boats have been operating in the World Showcase Lagoon at Epcot, shuttling guests across the Lagoon, the boats have not been operating in the resort areas. It looks like that is changing very soon. No word yet on the boats that travel from various resorts to Disney Springs—we’re watching for updates on all the water transportation—and will keep you posted! Water transportation is one of my favorite ways to get around Walt Disney World. So relaxing, and terrific scenery. Can’t wait until ALL Disney transportation is back to normal!

Disney Parks Reservation System

Last week, we discussed that Disney vacation packages are now available for booking through the end of 2021 and into January 2022. A couple of additional details related to this news: The Disney Parks Reservation System is available for reservations well into 2022—So this new system, requiring guests to decide which parks they will visit on each day of their Disney vacation is NOT going away. The system does not yet accommodate park hopping; however packages for 2021 do offer park hopping as an option, so we have to assume this functionality is on the way?

Magic Bands: Are They Being Phased Out?

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Also: in 2021, many of the functions currently performed by your magic band (hotel room key, park admission, payment for food and merchandise) will also be able to be performed by your smartphone. As a result, Magic Bands for Disney vacations beginning in January 2021 will no longer be provided to all guests free of charge. Magic Bands will be available for purchase if guests prefer to continue to use their Magic Bands.

I’m not loving this new development. I love the convenience of the magic bands, and we have quite the collection at our house (they make a really nice chain for the Christmas tree!)—and I love choosing new ones for each trip. For our upcoming trip, we upgraded from the “free” solid color magic bands and each picked “special” bands. Aren’t they fun?

The ones we ordered were $10.99 each. There are at least 20 different designs, and they change fairly often. There are also special “limited edition” bands. $10.99 – $24.99 is the current price range for upgraded Magic Bands.

Is Putting EVERYTHING on our Smart Phones the Best Idea?

I don’t really like increasing the dependence and draw on our cell phones. As it is, I already need to carry portable battery packs to charge our phones a couple of times a day when we are in the parks. I’m not super thrilled with needing to use the phones even more. And I’m not convinced that there won’t be glitches that will render guests unable to access their rooms or enter the parks. Makes me nervous. And what about other family members?

Disney World Magic Bands Disney Parks News — Magic Band as Park Ticket (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

A lot of kids don’t have cell phones. Also, I like the Magic Band’s ability to help identify kids if they get lost. I don’t know. Not loving this idea. Anyways, guest that want to continue to use magic bands will be able to purchase them. They just won’t automatically receive the solid color ones for free.

All Star Movies

We have good news this week for those of you that prefer to stay in Disney’s Value Resorts. So far, since Walt Disney World reopened, the only Value Resort that has reopened was Pop Century. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is reopening on November 1, but that’s mostly family suites and more expensive than the regular Value Reorts. Until now, we’d heard nothing about the three All Star resorts. At last, we have confirmation that one of the All Star Resorts, All Star Movies, is reopening on February 9, 2021. This is great news for Spring Breakers. They tend to prefer the cost savings of the All Star Resorts. All Star Movies is now available for booking for dates on or after February 9, 2021.

First Discount of 2021

And there’s more good news. Disney has released it’s first discount for 2021. You can save up to 35% on rooms at select Walt Disney World resorts from January 3 – April 17, 2021. Reservation must be booked before March 15, 2021. The amount of the discount is dependent on which resort you book. Rooms allocated for this offer are limited, and length of stay requirements may apply. If you’d like a free no obligation quote, please drop me an email at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

That’s it for this week’s news. I hope you found it helpful!

Happy dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Fall 2021 Vacation Packages Available!

We have breaking news this morning. At last, Disney has opened up reservations for next fall. Disney fall 2021 vacation packages are now available.

As you may already be aware, next October will mark the 50th Anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. There are many refurbishment projects currently underway, intended to spruce up the parks and resorts for Disney’s big 50th Anniversary. We are all hopeful that by next fall, many of the restrictions imposed by Covid-19 will be lifted, and we’ll all be able to fully enjoy the complete Disney experience.

Spaceship Earth Disney Fall 2021 Vacation Packages Available — Spaceship Earth (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)

Many guests have been waiting for Disney fall 2021 vacation packages to book their 2021 Disney vacations because they want to be on Disney property during the celebration. There are also thousands of Disney fans (my family included!) that had to cancel their 2020 vacation plans due to the impact of Covid-19. These fans have been anxiously waiting for Disney to open up fall 2021 vacation packages.

Disney Fall 2021 Vacation Packages Available Disney's Animal Kingdom Map — Enjoy Animal Kingdom at Night (Photo: Disney Parks)

Disney Fall 2021 Vacation Packages Available NOW

Today is the day. Vacation packages and resort reservations are now available from September 27, 2021 through December 31, 2021. If you are interested in booking your Disney fall 2021 vacation, please contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge — Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Photo: Disney Parks)

If you think you might want to visit Disney next fall, I highly encourage you to book sooner rather than later! Disney is going to be applying the full court marketing press, and doing their best to make sure that EVERYONE wants to be at Disney World next fall.

I was at Disney for the 45th Anniversary and it was PACKED! Hotels were at full capacity for most of that fall, and dining reservations were super tough to get. It’s better to lock in your plan early–even if you may need to make changes later.

Work with a Travel Agent

One of the (many!) benefits of working with an authorized Disney vacation planner is that we have direct access into the Disney systems. We often have access to unpublished or limited discounts not available to the general public. If you book your vacation through an authorized Disney vacation planner, and Disney releases a discount later that would save you money, we can go in to their system and apply that discount to your package. (As long as final payment has not been made.)

Animal Kingdom Mickey and Minnie vacation planning top reasons to visit Disney trip planning tips — Linda and Brooke with Mickey and Minnie at Animal Kingdom

Working with a Disney vacation planner does not cost you ANYTHING. We are paid by Disney. But by working with me, you have my expertise, Disney love, and hundreds of amazing vacations on your team. This can be a challenging time to navigate planning a Disney vacation. Let me help make it magical!

Have a wonderful week!

Happy Dreaming,

Brooke

P.S. Did you get this week’s Disney Parks News Update? Check it out here.

Disney Parks News Update 10.14.2020

In this week’s Disney Parks News Update, we have GUNS confiscated on Disney property, refurbishment updates, LOTS of food news, scary clowns and more! Please watch this week’s Disney Parks News Update video below.

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For those of you that prefer reading your Disney Parks news Update to watching the video, please read on!

Disney Parks News Update

Refurbishments

We are starting this week’s news update with refurbishments.

EPCOT

EPCOT currently looks a little bit like a construction zone, as EPCOT Future World is in the midst of a major overhaul. There are a number of projects in progress around EPCOT’s Entrance and throughout Future World. Among these projects is the Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster, scheduled to open sometime next year. We are happy to report that construction appears to be moving ahead on all these projects. We don’t have completion dates or opening dates for any of the work going on, but we are hopeful that Disney is on track with their plans to have this work complete in time for Walt Disney World’s 50^th Anniversary next October.

Frozen Ever After

A VERY popular attraction, Frozen Ever After, is closing for refurbishment in a couple of weeks. Don’t worry—it’s only for a few days. The attraction will be closed from November 2 – 6, 2020. This is likely just for cleaning and general maintenance; this is not enough time for Disney to do any major overhauls. Not to mention, this is still a fairly new attraction. It really shouldn’t need any major refurbishment yet.

We’ll be in the park the following week, and will let you know how the attraction looks when it reopens!

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Disney World 2020 Vacation Packages — Art of Animation Resort (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is reopening at long last on November 1, 2020. If you aren’t familiar with the Art of Animation resort, it is a very popular Value Resort, and one of our favorites. Check out our blog post about this resort here.

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During the shutdown, Art of Animation got some minor refurbishments, including new flooring and updates in the lobby area. The rooms themselves got minor updates to furnishings and room details.

If you haven’t had a chance to check out Art of Animation, it is located on the Skyliner line, and it’s a worthwhile stop to check it out. All the themed icons from Cars, The Lion King, Finding Nemo and the Little Mermaid make terrific backdrops and props for unique family pictures.

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The Big Blue Pool, Art of Animation’s largest pool, did not get it’s refurbishment done during the closure, however. As a result, the Big Blue Pool will be closed for refurbishment from January 1, 2021 through early April 2021.

Art of Animation Resort Big Blue Pool Refurbishment Disney Parks News Update 10.14.20 — Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts

Guests are encouraged to use the Flippin’ Fins Pool (Little mermaid area) or the Cozy cone Pool (in the Cars area) during the closure. The Schoolyard Sprayground play area is NOT being affected by the closure.

Art of Animation Cozy Cone Pool — Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts

Guests staying at Art of Animation during this time should expect to see or hear construction during their stay; however, construction does not occur between dusk and 9 am, so your rest time should not be impacted.

If you have a reservation during this time and are concerned about this refurbishment, please reach out to your travel agent (or me!).

Boardwalk Inn: Luna Pool

A highlight for me personally in this week’s Disney Parks News Update is about the CLOWN over at the Luna Pool at the Boardwalk Inn.

The pool at the Boardwalk Inn, the Luna Pool is currently being refurbished while the Boardwalk Inn is closed. The pool area at the Boardwalk Inn is themed to the turn of the 20^th century Coney island. The area has a sort of “Circus-y/Old timey amusement park” vibe.

Boardwalk Inn Luna Pool Area (Photo: Disney Parks)

The centerpiece of the pool area has always been a giant clown face. The mouth of the clown is a waterslide. I’m not a giant fan of clowns to begin with but this clown? Totally creeps me out. In fact, I’ve avoided booking there for my family because of the creepy clown.

I mean, look at that thing. Don’t you think it’s a little creepy? (OR A LOT CREEPY???!!!)

Here’s the big news: locals have reported that the giant clown head has been REMOVED as part of the Luna Pool refurbishment!!! It has been seen being taken away from the pool area (although no one actually saw it dismantled, thrown in the trash or burned in a ceremonial cleansing so we do not know for sure it is not coming back). The area where the clowns head WAS is still covered with tarps, but work is continuing.

Dare we hope that the clown is gone for good? Could the Imagineers have something new and creative for that area that doesn’t terrorize small children (or ME)??? I do not know, unfortunately. We will definitely scope out the pool area when we visit next month; hopefully we will be able to give you a more definitive update then. But for now? I’m happily booking a reservation for my mom and I at Boardwalk for May, assuming the clown will be GONE.

Food News

We have lots of FOOD NEWS in this week’s Disney Parks News Update!

ABC Commissary

Over at Hollywood Studios, the ABC Commissary has reopened with a brand new menu. Some old favorites are still there, but the menu has had a major overhaul. Tacos and curry rice bowls have taken center stage. New items include Pork carnitas tacos, Shrimp tacos, curry rice bowl with shrimp and a plant based curry rice bowl with tofu. Two new chicken sandwiches also join the lineup. Kids can choose from a Pork taco, grilled cheese sandwich, a turkey sandwich or their old favorite, uncrustables.

Minnie’s Halloween Dine

Also at Hollywood Studios, we have a new menu for Minnie’s Halloween Dine over at Hollywood and Vine.

This meal does feature character appearances. The characters will parade through the dining area and wave and let you take pictures. However, they won’t be stopping at your table for individual pictures as you are probably used to from character meals pre Covid.

This is a fixed price, three course meal, featuring a salad, entrée and dessert.

Disney Parks News Update 10.14.20 — Photo: Disney Parks

Entrée choices include prime rib, roasted turkey breast, macaroni and cheese with shrimp, Salmon, Pork osso bucco and plant based pan seared king trumpet mushrooms.

Minnie's Halloween Dine — Photo: Disney Parks

Desserts include your choice of apple blueberry pie, banana crème pie, chocolate smores pie, vanilla crème brulee and a plant based cherry lemon pie.

Cocktails, wine and beer are available for an additional price. Beer starts at $7.50, Wine by the glass starts at $10, and cocktails start at $13.

In the past I have NOT enjoyed Hollywood & Vine, however, I have to admit this sounds pretty good. We may have to check this out for ourselves!

Chef Mickey’s

Next up in Food news: Chef Mickey’s Character Dining is coming back! One of the most popular character meals on property, Chef Mickey’s will soon be visited by Chef Mickey himself (and a few of his friends!).

Chef Mickey's Character Dining Returns Disney Parks News Update 10.14.20 — Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts

Starting on December 16, 2020, Mickey and Minnie and their friends will be back at Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It’s not quite the same—this is NOT a buffet at the moment, and the characters will not be coming to your table. However, the characters will “pop up” at surprise intervals and parade through the dining rooms, waving at guests for pictures. Reservations for Chef mickey’s character dining open up October 17.

Its important to note that Chef Mickey’s IS currently open. Right now, it’s an all you care to eat family feast WITHOUT characters. Pricing for adults is $25 and kids are $14 (plus tax). However, once the characters return, pricing will jump to $42 for adults and $27 for kids (plus tax).

Mickey's Celebration Pancakes Chef Mickey's Character Dining Disney Parks News Update 10.14.20 — Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts

In addition to the characters joining diners, there are three new entrees being added to the menu. Mickey’s celebration pancakes, a loaded potato cheese casserole with smoked bacon crumbles and chives and finally, Goofy’s Banana Bread French Toast—which looks and sounds like a heart attack on a plate.

Chef Mickey's Character Dining Disney Parks News Update 10.14.20 — Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts

It will probably taste AMAZING though. If you plan to check out this very popular character dining experience, reservations are HIGHLY recommended (really, required).

Updated Mask Warnings

New mask warning signs appeared throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks last week. These signs more specifically state that guests must wear their masks properly, at all times, and further state that guests who do not wear their masks will be asked to leave the parks.

In addition to the new signs located throughout the parks, Disney has added an audio announcement about the mask policy that plays in the parks several times each day. Finally, they’ve added the message to the My Disney Experience phone app. Disney is very serious that guests understand this policy.

I know there has been some confusion on this: Florida was recently moved to Phase 3, which means the Florida state government is no longer requiring masks in all public places, and the state has rescinded the fines for not wearing a mask. HOWEVER, it is important to recognize that each business has the right to establish and follow their own protocols, based on what they believe is safest for their guests or customers.

Disney is SERIOUS about their Mask Policy

Completely separate from what the state dictates, Disney has their OWN policies. Disney has determined, based on their research and advice from scientific advisors and guidelines from the CDC (Center for Disease Control) that masks help prevent the spread of Covid-19 (and other airborne spread diseases). Disney is requiring all guests over the age of 2 to wear masks at all times while in the theme parks, and while in public areas of Disney resorts.

Disney News Updates — Photo: Disney Parks

I understand this is a hot button topic for some people. Bottom line: If you aren’t willing to wear a mask during your Disney visit, do not visit Disney.

If you don’t wear a mask, you will not be permitted entry to the theme parks. If you remove your mask (other than while dining), you will be asked to leave the theme park. It’s very simple. If your aren’t comfortable wearing a mask during your Disney theme park visit, do not visit Disney until masks are no longer required. Hopefully, sometime next year. Disney has a very good refund policy right now, due to the challenges raised by Covid-19, and I am confident they will work with you to cancel or reschedule your trip.

Walt Disney World Theme Parks Capacity

In last week’s Disney Parks News Update, we talked about capacity at the theme parks. We expressed our belief that Disney has been quietly increasing capacity at the theme parks. This belief is based on anecdotal and observational evidence. The theme parks are feeling more crowded. We are seeing much longer lines for attractions. It’s getting more difficult to social distance in main traffic areas throughout the parks. Park reservations are fully booked up, and then Disney releases more availability for certain days, especially weekends. In general, it just “feels” like the parks are getting more crowded every week.

Bob Chapek, Disney CEO

However, Bob Chapek, Disney’s CEO told CNBC this week that Walt Disney World theme parks are still capped at 25% capacity. He also stated that the parks will remain capped at 25% capacity until the CDC guidelines change.

We have to assume that Bob Chapek knows what he’s talking about. He’s the boss of all the bosses, and while he’s not in the trenches admitting guests into the park, we figure he’s heavily involved with the decisions related to capacity. Especially as those decisions will affect the overall profitability of the theme parks dramatically, right?

We’re NOT at 25% Capacity?

So what could explain the discrepancy between what we (and many others who have visited over the last few weeks) are feeling and what Bob Chapek tells us must be true?

1) It’s likely that when the parks first opened, they were not any where near 25% capacity. Perhaps they opened at 5 or 10% and hovered there for a while. We saw lots of pictures and comments that the parks were like ghost towns, and all the attractions were walk-ons during the first couple of months. That has certainly changed. So perhaps what we are seeing now is truly 25% capacity?

2) Another factor in longer lines could be staffing related. If Disney is staffing fewer cast members on attractions, perhaps some “lanes” are closed in attractions? This could slow down the movement of guests through those rides, resulting in longer lines and more congestion?

I’m not sure. It sure seems like the crowds we are seeing, especially in Hollywood Studios and the Magic Kingdom, are higher than 25% capacity. But we don’t work at the parks, and Disney is fairly tightlipped about what they consider FULL capacity to be. So the short answer right now? We don’t know. We will update you next month with our perspective when we are actually there ourselves.

Assault Weapons at Disney World?

Our final story this week is a troubling one. We have learned, courtesy of the Orlando Sentinel as well as several other news outlets, that a Disney guest brought an AR-15 rifle and 9 mm handgun with him on his Disney vacation!

The guest, a 43 year old man from Palm Beach Gardens, checked into the Polynesian Villages Resort over Labor Day Weekend. When the guns were discovered in his luggage, Disney contacted the local sheriff. The man had a concealed weapons permit, and therefore was not arrested.

However, Disney does not allow weapons of any kind on property, so Disney confiscated and held the man’s arsenal for him until the end of his vacation. He stated he brought the weapons because he was worried about his family’s safety during the social justice protests in the Orlando area last month.

Personally, I think if you are worried enough about the safety of your family that you need to bring an assault rifle, a hand gun and more than 100 rounds of ammunition with you to DISNEY WORLD where there are THOUSANDS of unarmed adults and children, perhaps you should postpone your vacation until a time when it feels safer for you to visit.

Again, Disney is being extremely flexible with cancellations, refunds and rescheduling. I would never want anyone to feel unsafe, but we can’t have assault rifles and other deadly weapons making their way onto Disney property.

To be clear: Disney does not allow guests to bring weapons of any kind onto its property. If you have issues with this policy, please contact Disney directly.

Disney Parks News Update: Final Thoughts

That’s it for this week’s Disney Parks News Update. It’s good to see that in some ways, things at the parks are starting to look a little more normal. However, it is a sign of the times that we are seeing stronger mask warnings from Disney, and that we had a story this week that included the word “assault rifle”. I’m hopeful that we will have more stories about things getting back to normal as time goes on.

Thank you for reading!

Happy dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Parks News Update 10.07.20

This week’s Disney Parks News Update includes more information about Disney’s recent announcement that 28,000 cast members from the theme parks division will be laid off. Critics and analysts weigh in on Disney’s decision. Also featured this week: Disney resort news from Hawaii, Walt Disney World Discounts, and runDisney virtual race updates. Please watch this week’s video below.

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For those of you that would rather read than watch the video, today’s Disney Parks News Update is detailed below.

Disney Layoffs

This week’s top story continues to be Disney laying off more than 25% of its 100,000 theme park employees. We have learned that 67% of the 28,000 theme park employees being laid off are part time employees. Also, 6,700 of the employees being laid off are Walt Disney World non union employees.

Disney is still negotiating the terms of the layoffs with the various unions. Therefore, we don’t yet have numbers for union employees being impacted by the layoffs.

However, we are hearing that all departments and all levels within the theme park division are being affected. From Imagineers to Janitorial staff, every department is being impacted. Of the employees so far that have gotten the call, it seems that December 4, 2020 is the effective date for most of the layoffs so far.

We won’t know the impact on the guest experience until after December 4. However it seems pretty obvious that the guest experience WILL be significantly impacted.

Orlando Sentinel’s Scott Maxwell Weighs In

Scott Maxwell at the Orlando Sentinel had a terrific commentary piece this week addressing the Orlando area’s dependence on tourism as the primary economic driver and primary source of employment. Maxwell included information about many of the other tourism related layoffs happening in and around the Orlando area, including 1,900 Sea World employees, 2,300 Universal Studios employees, and thousands of employees from various hotel employers. It’s a really interesting commentary and I encourage you to check it out.

Abigail Disney Chastises Disney

Also weighing in on Disney’s decision to layoff 28,000 employees was Abigail Disney. Abigail Disney is the granddaughter of Disney co-founder Roy Disney. She took to twitter to make her feelings about the layoffs known. In her Twitter thread about the layoffs, Abigail Disney chastised Disney for underpaying its theme park employees. She also emphasized the impact these layoffs will have on employees and their families.

She went on to say “If Disney had not spent down every penny of its cash on share buy-backs in 2019 (11.5 billion worth), perhaps there’d have been some dough on hand to ensure that even at a partial level they could continue to keep some of these workers on until things return to normal.”

Strong words, to be sure. However, it is important to realize that her words are likely to have little effect on Disney, a giant publicly traded company. Ms. Disney does not currently hold a position of power or influence at Disney. She is, nonetheless, a member of the Disney family and is expressing her personal opinions.

Disney World Reopens — Disney Cast Member (Photo: Disney Parks)

October Hours

In more optimistic news, Disney has recently been increasing park hours here and there. Most weekends in October now feature extended hours, with each park staying open about one hour later than the rest of the week. I think this is a result of increased capacity as well as Disney’s attempt to drive more guests to quick service and table service restaurants open later in the day.

We are hopeful that we will continue to see this happen into November and December. Keep in mind that Disney always reserves their right to change park hours, at their discretion, based on anticipated crowds, staffing levels and other parameters.

Crowd Levels

As we mentioned last week, Disney has been quietly increasing capacity levels and adding park reservation availability for both annual passholders, resort guests and ticket holders. We are seeing longer lines, especially on the weekends. This trend is expected to continue as Disney moves closer and closer to normal.

We can pretty confidently say that we do not expect crowd levels to return to the extremely low levels we were seeing in the first couple months the parks reopened. Guests are gaining more confidence both in traveling in general, and in Disney’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic specifically. I think Disney will continue gradually increasing capacity in response both to the State of Florida’s movement to Phase 3 and to guest reservations and demand.

We don’t yet know when (or even IF) we can expect Fast Pass+ to return. For now, the lack of Fast Pass+ actually helps the overall speed of the stand by lines. This is the result of cast members not needing to merge Fast Pass+ holders into the standby lines.

Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa

While this is not theme park news, this is a Disney resorts news story. Disney has announced that Disney’s Hawaiian resort, Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa will begin gradually reopening on November 1, 2020.

Disney is working with the State of Hawaii to coordinate their reopening plans. Potential guests are encouraged to check with the Hawaiian tourism board for specific travel restrictions that may include mandated quarantines or pre travel testing. Visit gohawaii.com/travel-restrictions to learn more.

Aulani Flexible Cancellation Policy

To encourage guests to visit Aulani, Disney has some new policies and discounts in place.

First, there is a flexible cancelation policy in place for Aulani guests through May 20, 2021. This policy enables guests to cancel their Aulani reservations up to 24 hours before arrival without penalty!

If you have been thinking about planning a Hawaiian vacation, but have been concerned about future Covid-19 developments, this flex policy is terrific. You can plan with confidence, knowing that if you need to reschedule or even cancel your trip you can do so without worry about losing money.

Disney Parks News Update Aulani — Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)

Aulani Discounts

Also in place to encourage guests to visit Aulani are discounts of up to 35%, depending on your dates and room types. This resort is truly extraordinary, and is an amazing vacation destination. If you’d like more information on planning an Aulani vacation, please contact me at Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Walt Disney World Vacation Package Discounts

Staying on the topic of discounts but returning to the theme parks, Walt Disney World is currently offering a few discounts I wanted to make you aware of.

First up, Vacation package discounts. These are room and ticket packages, and require a minimum 4 night stay/4 day ticket package. You can save up to $500 over the non discounted prices of room & tickets for the same dates.

Discounts vary by resort type, and are good for stays through December 25, 2020. As we’ve discussed before, the Disney theme park experience is limited right now. Much of the entertainment is not happening. Character meals and character greetings are not happening. Fireworks and parades are not happening.

While this is a decent discount, it’s not outstanding. Especially when you consider the given the current limited hours and entertainment offerings. However, if you really want to visit between now and December 25, I want to make sure you save as much money as possible. This discount may make a winter trip possible for some of you.

Southern State Disney Discounts

Disney is actively wooing guests from “southern” states. I think the game plan here is to appeal to guests within driving distance. Especially since so many travelers are still not comfortable flying right now.

To take advantage of this discounts, you must have residency in one of the following states:

- - - - Alabama
      - Georgia
      - Kentucky
      - Louisiana
      - Mississippi
      - North Carolina
      - South Carolina
      - Tennessee
      - Virginia
      - West Virginia

These discounts are room only packages. Discounts are up to 30% for guests staying in a deluxe resort, and up to 20% for guests staying in a value resort. If you want to price out a potential trip for your family, please contact me at brooke@disneycastledreaming.com or by commenting below.

Florida Resident Discounts

The biggest discounts at the moment are for Florida residents, which makes a lot of sense. Florida residents are most likely to be able to visit in the immediate short term.

If you are a Florida resident (note: they do make you prove residency), there are some really terrific discounts right now. The big win: you are eligible for a four day flex ticket at $49/day, which is a savings of about 50% over a regular priced four day ticket.

Florida residents are also eligible for room only hotel discounts of up to 35% for deluxe resorts and up to 25% for Art of Animation (a Value resort, but value Plus in my opinion.) These Florida resident discounts are really good, even with the current limitations of hours, entertainment, character greetings etc.

runDisney Virtual Races

In runDisney news, the virtual races for both the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and the Princess Half Marathon Weekend for 2021 are still available to for registration. Race dates are:

- - Walt Disney World 2021 Marathon Weekend: January 7 – January 10, 2021
  - Princess Half Marathon 2021 Weekend: February 20 – 21, 2021

If you choose to do a virtual runDisney event, you are still going to train for your event. You will still complete the distance of the race you register for. Ideally, on the date the original runDisney onsite race was planned. The big difference? You will complete the race at home, on a route of your choosing or on your treadmill.

Your completion of the race is “required” for you to receive your finisher’s medal, which will be mailed out by Disney after the race weekends are complete. However, these virtual races are essentially done on the “honor system”. So if you do the race on a different day, or take more than 16 minutes per mile to complete the race, that will be ok.

Prices range from $49 – $500, depending on the race and/or the challenge you want to do, and whether you want to include the race tech shirts with your purchase.

Mom/Daughter Challenge

My mom and I have decided to do the Princess 10k virtual race together; I am also doing the Princess half marathon to complete the Fairy Tale Challenge. We’ll be posting our training updates both here and on the blog.

If you want to follow along, please make sure you subscribe both to our YouTube channel and to this blog.

If you’re considering a runDisney event, I offer “Couch to 10K”, “Couch to Half Marathon” and “Couch to runDisney Challenge” training programs that include weekly email coaching, training schedules and personalized support. Contact me to learn more. (Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com)

If you want to learn more about the runDisney experience, please check out this post.

And that’s it for this week’s Disney Parks News Update. If you have a topic you would like us to cover in the blog or on YouTube, please let us know by commenting below. You can also send an email to brooke@disneycastledreaming.com with your suggestions.

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Disney Parks News Update 09.30.20

It’s time for another Disney Parks News Update. In this week’s report, we discuss Governor Ron DeSantis’ decision to move the State of Florida to Phase 3. This removes capacity restrictions on theme parks, restaurants and bars throughout Florida. We also discuss Disney’s announcement that they are laying off 28,000 employees from their theme parks division.

We also report on changes to entertainment at Walt Disney World in the coming weeks. In addition, there was fireworks testing going on after hours and the ongoing refurbishment at the Polynesian Villages Resort. Finally, we give you an update on runDisney’s virtual race registrations and report a parade sighting on this week’s Dancing With the Stars.

Please check out this weeks Disney Parks News Update below.

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For those of you that prefer reading, here’s the written version of this week’s Disney Parks News Update.

Disney Parks News Update

Florida moves to Phase 3

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis officially moved Florida to Phase 3, effectively lifting Covid-19 restrictions on theme parks, restaurants and bars. The state is no longer issuing fines for failure to comply with mask regulations, and is no longer restricting capacity.

Disney released a statement, essentially stating that they will continue to adhere to their reopening plans, and continue to exercise caution and above and beyond safety protocols. As we mentioned last week, Disney has been quietly increasing capacity in its theme parks; however I would not expect any drastic or sudden changes in response to the Governor’s actions.

Disney Lays Off 28,000 Employees

Yesterday, Disney announced upcoming layoffs of 28,000 employees from its theme parks division. While many Disney theme park employees were furloughed following the closure in April due to the Pandemic, this announcement is a major blow to theme park employees both hoping to be brought back to work soon, and those currently working in the parks.

Disney’s official statement cites California’s failure to allow Disneyland to reopen as a major factor; however, the travel industry as a whole has been VERY hard hit this year, and it may take years for it to fully recover. Sea World, Universal and other Florida theme parks have also been announcing layoffs, just not quite this large.

Our hearts go out to all the employees that will soon learn they are among the 28,000. This has been such a difficult year for so many, and this giant layoff by one of the worlds largest corporations is certainly an indicator that no one is immune from the pain, not even the happiest places on Earth.

Fireworks Testing

In the “good news” category, there was some after hours testing of Fireworks over at EPCOT a few nights ago. The testing went on for several hours. Most likely, this is Disney testing the new nighttime show for EPCOT, Harmonious. Harmonious was originally scheduled to be added to EPCOT this summer or fall; however, it is more likely that it will be added in the spring. This new show is supposed to be the biggest and most technical of any of the nighttime Epcot spectaculars, and it is likely that months of testing lie ahead before the show is released to guests.

Disney Epcot Updates Epcot 2020 Nighttime Show — Epcot Nighttime Show, Harmonious, Concept Art, Artist’s Rendering (Source: Disney Parks)

When fireworks DO return to Disney, I do think EPCOT is a great candidate for the first shows as it is more spread out and will allow for more disbursement of crowds and less congestion. However, fireworks shows like Disney does are very expensive and I highly doubt they will resume until the parks are returned to normal capacity and the hotels are all back open and full of guests.

Magic Kingdom Attraction Closures

Magic Kingdom announced a couple attraction closures this week. The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer island will be closed from October 5 through at least Jan 21 2021 for refurbishment. This may mean that the Rivers of America will be drained during that period, although that is not confirmed.

Magic Kingdom Liberty Square Riverboat — Liberty Square Riverboat (Photo: Disney Parks)

Polynesian Villages Resort Refurbishment

Last week we discussed that the Polynesian Villages Resort will be closed until next year as it is getting refurbishment. At that time Disney had not released any concept art.

Disney has now released this concept art for the new entrance and Port Cochere for the Polynesian Villages Resort. Further, Disney stated the resort will reopen in Summer 2021. The Polynesian’s 50^th anniversary is October 1 2021, and it seems the refurbishment is designed to coincide with that anniversary as well as with Walt Disney World’s 50^th Anniversary, also October 2021.

Polynesian Villages Resort Refurbishment — Concept Art: Polynesian Villages Resort (Concept Art: Disney Parks and Resorts)

The statement released by Disney with the new art stated that the new entrance will feature a bold new facade that will complement the longhouses throughout the resort. Disney also stated that the gardens and fountains are getting refurbished as well, with new dramatic lighting elements, and new chandeliers, inspired by glass floats, fishing nets and bamboo. The new outdoor chandeliers will match the existing chandelier in the resort lobby and bridge the two spaces.

Disney World guests can still access the Grand Ceremonial House and its operating retail and dining venues during the refurbishment project.

I think this is preliminary art is a good sign. The Polynesian’s ground entrance has always been a little underwhelming, and it looks like Disney is finally fixing that, and making it more worth of this beautiful resort.

The Grand Floridian Orchestra

After 32 years, Disney has ended the run of the Grand Floridian Orchestra. This six piece orchestra has entertained guests at the Grand Floridian from high above the lobby for years, and is beloved by many.

While the Grand Floridian remained closed to guests when the parks reopened, the Grand Floridian Orchestra was performing several times per day over at Hollywood Studios in the Beauty and the Beast theater as the Disney Society Orchestra.

The Grand Floridian Orchestra announced a few days ago that their final Walt Disney World performance will be at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on Saturday October 3, 2020. Disney’s official statement was pretty brief and vague, but seemed to indicate that it was time for a change at the Grand Floridian.

More likely, the cut is budget related, and is a troubling indicator of things to come. In March, many of the entertainment acts featured throughout EPCOT World Showcase found their contracts canceled. I am very concerned that we are losing, perhaps permanently, that “extra” entertainment that is part of what makes Disney parks so very special.

Entertainment Coming to Hollywood Studios

However, there is some good news on the entertainment front. At Hollywood Studios, we have some entertainment coming back very soon. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing A Long Celebration is returning to Hollywood Studios on October 5, 2020.

Frozen Sing a Long Celebration — For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-a-long Celebration (Photo: Disney Parks)

Disney has stated that there are no changes to the show, other than minor staging and audience seating to allow for social distancing.

Also coming soon to the animation courtyard is Disney Junior Play and Dance. These dance parties will feature a DJ playing songs and encouraging kids to dance. Disney Junior stars like Mickey Mouse and Vampirina will appear on stage during the dance party.

Pop Up Motorcades at Hollywood Studios

Pop up motorcades are coming to Hollywood Studios. These motorcades will allow guests to see their favorite characters safely, and provide photo opportunities. Much like the character cavalcades we’ve been seeing at Magic Kingdom, these themed motorcades will not appear on the daily schedule. This will discourage crowds from gathering to see a motorcade. These motorcades will pop up throughout the day.

Disney Parks News Updates Pop Up Motorcade Incredibles — Pixar Pals Character Motorcade (Photo: Disney Parks)

There are three different motorcades, all featuring custom colorful convertibles, powered by Chevrolet. Gotta love those sponsorships. The Mickey and Friends motorcade will feature Minnie, Mickey, Pluto and Chip and Dale. The Pixar Pals Motorcade will feature the Incredibles, Woody, Buzz lightyear and others. The Disney junior stars motorcade will feature Fancy Nancy, Doc McStuffins and Vampirina.

Disney Parks Updates Pop Up Motorcade Vampirina — Disney Junior Character Motorcade (Photo: Disney Parks)

runDisney Virtual Race Registration Update

Last week we shared runDisney’s announcement that the 2021 Marathon Weekend and 2021 Princess Half Marathon weekend were both transitioning to virtual races, and that registration for the races was opening up for those races for a limited time.

Registration is currently still open for all the virtual races for both weekends, if you are interested. I don’t know how long registration will remain open, so I wouldn’t wait too long.

If you’re not familiar with a “virtual” race, basically you will run the race on the scheduled date, but you will run it in a location of your choosing, not on Disney property and without the porta-potties and water stations we rely on for major races. For marathon weekend, prices range from $40-79 for the 5K, $49-$99 for the 10k, $59-$118 for the half, and $65-$120 for the full marathon. The lower price includes a digital bib, digital race tool kit including mile markers, digital goody bag, virtual playlist. The higher price adds an event tech shirt.

The challenges are also available: Goofy (the half and full completed on consecutive days) is $129 – $275, and Dopey (all four races completed on consecutive days) is $225 – $480.

Pricing for the Princess half marathon weekend is very similar. We are posting a more detailed post about the runDisney virtual races tomorrow. Please check back to visit that post.

Disney and Dancing with the Stars

Finally, loosely tied to Parks news, it was Disney week on Dancing with the Stars. Host Tyra Banks sported Minnie ears and a Minnie inspired dress throughout the show, and every dance featured Disney songs.

Disney Parks News Updates Dancing with the Stars Tyra Banks — Disney Week on Dancing with the Stars. Host Tyra Banks (Screenshot: Hulu)

The highlight for me was the inclusion of elements from the Main Street Electrical Parade during the beginning segment of the show. The “floats” were displayed and the little snail even drove around the dance floor.

Disney Parks News Updates Dancing with the Stars Main Street Electrical Parade — The Main Street Electrical Parade Visits Disney Week on Dancing with the Stars (Screenshot: Hulu)

I’ve always loved this little parade, and was happy to see the floats and elements still exist. Hopefully we will all get a chance to see this beloved nighttime parade at a Disney park sometime soon!

Tune in Next Week for More Disney Parks News Updates!

We hope you have enjoyed this week’s Disney Parks News Update. Please join us next Wednesday for next week’s news!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

P.S. Looking for last week’s Disney Parks News Updates? Please visit our YouTube video here.

Disney Cancels Dining Reservations Through Year End

Disney has released more information about the reopening of Walt Disney World. The big news today? Disney cancels ALL dining reservations through the end of the year.

Disney has also cancelled all Fast Pass reservations. For more information about Disney’s reopening plans, please check out this post. The plans submitted to Orange County have been approved, and Disney is on track to reopen on July 11, 2020.

Disney Cancels Dining Reservations

Disney has officially cancelled all dining reservations through the end of this year. This is a pretty significant indication that Disney does NOT expect theme park operations and capacity to return to normalcy any time this year.

For those of us planning to visit Disney later this year, the canceling of dining reservations may have a big impact on our trip plans.

In their statement, Disney has told us that the cancellations are due to social distancing requirements. They have said that when they reopen, restaurants will be limited in capacity.

Disney plans to reopen dining reservations with limited numbers “closer to when the parks reopen”. They are also shrinking the Advance Dining Reservations window from 180 days to 60 days. This seems to be an “until further notice” change.

Fast Pass+ Reservations Suspended

In addition, Disney has suspended the Fast Pass+ reservation system. Fast Passes will not be available for any attractions when the parks reopen on July 11, 2020. Any existing Fast Pass+ reservations will be automatically cancelled. Disney will use additional queue space to manage capacity and social distancing. Disney has not provided any information as to if and when the Fast Pass+ reservation system will be reinstated. Fast Pass+ information has already been removed from the My Disney Experience.

Extra Magic Hours Suspended

Disney has also decided to suspend Extra Magic Hours temporarily as the parks reopen. Again, we don’t know how long this will last. It may end up that Extra Magic Hours will be suspended briefly, and will return quickly. It’s also possible that Extra Magic Hours will be suspended through the end of the year.

Reservations for Tours and Other Experiences

Disney has also cancelled reservations for all behind the scenes tours and other experience that require reservations. Disney has indicated that some experiences will remain closed for the time being. Other experiences will be available with limited capacity. Reservations for these experiences will likely become available closer to the parks reopening. As with everything else, the situation is fluid and frequent changes are likely.

Ticket Sales and Hotel Reservations

All NEW ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations are temporarily paused. The priority right now for Disney is Guests with existing tickets and reservations. Guests that already have tickets and Annual Passholders will be able to make theme park reservations before new tickets are sold. There are no specific instructions yet on how those guests will be able to make their reservations. Disney has said they are going to be reaching out to those Guests soon to provide details.

New ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations will resume at some point. Disney has stated their initial priority is taking care of existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders. The parks will be reopening with limited capacity, so I’m not sure when exactly when new reservations will be available. I will update you as soon as I have more information.

Masks ARE Required

As we mentioned in our previous post about the parks reopening, face masks or coverings WILL be required for all theme park guests and Cast Members. They will also be required for all Guests and Cast Members in Resort public areas.

Disney has really cute face masks for sale — Disney themed face masks? Let’s go! Click the picture above.

Summary of All Changes

So, in short, visiting Walt Disney World this summer (and potentially, for the rest of the year) is going to look VERY different.

Disney cancels dining reservations and character greetings — No character greetings–at least for now!

- - Face masks required
  - No Extra Magic Hours
  - Fast Pass+ system suspended
  - No fireworks
  - Nighttime spectaculars canceled
  - Social distancing
  - All dining reservations have been canceled
  - New reservation window of sixty days instead of 180 days
  - All reservations for tours and other experiences have been canceled
  - No character greetings
  - Playgrounds closed
  - No water play areas
  - “Makeover” experiences (Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo Boutique, for example) are canceled

Disney Cancels Dining Reservations — Character greetings have been canceled. Character meals are most likely canceled, too. (Unconfirmed)

Disney is working with the CDC (Center for Disease Control) and other health experts to do everything they can to protect the health and safety of both Guests and Cast Members.

Should You Visit Disney This Year?

Of course, many of these changes are disappointing. If you’ve been looking forward to your trip all year (or longer!), canceling or postponing can be really sad. However, if you have a “first” trip planned during this time, I highly recommend you reschedule. So many of the experiences are going to be limited, I think you will be disappointed. If you are a frequent visitor, and know you’ll be visiting again next year, you may not be as disappointed by some of the “missing” features during this phased reopening time. Canceling or postponing can be a very difficult decision. If you need advice, or would like to talk it through with someone, please feel free to reach out. I’m here, and I understand. brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Disney cancels dining reservations and other experiences — All nighttime fireworks and spectaculars are canceled due to social distancing requirements

It is important to keep in mind that Disney is trying to keep everyone safe. If you have a trip booked, and want to cancel as a result of these changes, Disney is working with everyone to reschedule or offer refunds. Contact your travel agent or Disney to learn more.

Personally, I think with the reduced capacity and all the other changes, the best visitors during these early phases are going to be local Florida residents and Disney Annual Passholders. Likely to be frequent visitors, I think locals and Passholders will be less impacted by all the changes. They’ll also be less likely to feel disappointed or that they’re “missing out” on experiences that have been canceled for the time being.

What Can We Expect in 2021?

Information about next year and the impact of this pandemic on the theme parks in 2021 is pretty sparse. I suspect we will learn more as the theme parks reopen, and we see how Guests respond. In China, Guests have been very cooperative with Disney. Chinese Guests have responded well to new rules and restrictions. This has resulted in Shanghai Disneyland expanding capacity.

However, it is important to recognize that visitors to Disney World in Florida come from all over the world and from many different cultures. We don’t yet know if Guests in Florida will be as cooperative as those in China. We hope so, and we hope that we don’t see an increase in new Covid-19 cases as the parks reopen. This is going to be a “wait and see” situation.

Other Florida Theme Parks

Universal Theme Parks open next week, as does Legoland. Gatorland has already reopened. Sea World is reopening June 11, followed by Disney World on July 11. Busch Gardens in Tampa has submitted plans for reopening, which have been approved. No reopening date has been announced yet.

Hopefully, by mid August we will have more information on how the reopening plans are succeeding for all the Florida theme parks.

The good news is that all the theme parks ARE reopening. It will be different, but it is happening. Hopefully, as the months pass, things will return to something closer to normal for theme park visitors. It is time, I believe, to start planning our vacations for next year. If you need help, I am available! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Happy Dreaming,

Brooke

Authorized Disney Vacation Planner — Ready to Plan Your Disney Vacation!

Waiting in Line at Disney Parks

What to do While Waiting in Line

It is time to accept that if you are visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland, you are GOING to spend some time waiting in line. What’s more, spending some time in lines is NOT the end of the world. Yes, having a Fast Pass+ reservation and bypassing the line is AWESOME. Riding during an After Hours event or Early Morning Magic and having mostly no lines is really, really fun.

However, the reality is that during your average park day, even if you’ve expertly managed your Fast Pass+ reservations and arrived at the park before it opened, you are going to wait in some lines. During busy times, like Spring Break or Christmas week, you are going to wait in a LOT of lines.

Waiting in line for an attraction you love is not a terrible thing. We’ve all gotten a wee bit spoiled by Fast Pass+, and I’m the first to admit I can be a brat if a ride I want to ride has a line longer than I’m willing to wait in. We have skipped Toy Story Mania on a few trips because of the lines and I LOVE that ride. BUT having the right attitude goes a long way in managing the lines.

If the line is too long, skip it

Be honest with yourself. If the line is longer than you are willing to wait, don’t get in it. If the sign says 90 minutes, trust the sign. Yes, Disney does sometimes exaggerate their wait times a few minutes to help improve guest satisfaction. They DON’T exaggerate them by 45 minutes, though. If you are going to be mad that you waited 90 minutes, don’t get in line. Your resulting mood will make it difficult for you to enjoy the ride and might impact the rest of your family.

Tower of Terror attraction photo (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)

It is not going to be the most tragic thing ever if you skip a few attractions because the lines are too long. There are so many great attractions and things to do at Disney, you can’t fit everything in, even if all the lines are short. It’s ok if you decide to skip an attraction here or there.

Snacks

If you’ve got little kids that are going to get hungry while you are waiting in line, don’t get in line unless you have something for them to snack on. Or, take a break before you get in line and grab a snack. If your kids are hungry or thirsty, and you get in a 20 -40 minute line, you’ll end up frustrated. You won’t be happy that your kids are whining or crying, and your fellow line mates may end up annoyed with you and your kids.

Pay attention to the heat

If you are already super hot, and the majority of the line is outside, don’t get in line until you’ve taken a break. Seriously, the Florida heat is no joke. Take a break, sit down and have a cool drink or visit an air conditioned attraction where you can sit for awhile. Cool off and relax a bit for heading into the line.

Splash Mountain Attraction Photo (Photo: Disney PhotoPass)

Play!

Use the line as an opportunity to play with your family. Often you will end up playing with your line-neighbors as well. Heads Up!, the popular phone game is a great choice, as long as you have a back up charger for your phone. One person holds the phone up to their forehead, with the screen facing out. A word pops up on the screen. The rest of you try to give the phone holder clues that will help them guess the word on the screen. There are levels and categories for all ages and interests.

Waiting in Line for Flight of Passage — Waiting in line for Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom. We had so much fun playing games with our neighbors in line! (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

There are other phone games that work well in line-but try to stick with group games that include everyone. Again, you are on vacation to enjoy each other and spend time together. Everyone buried in their own phones is not what you are going for.

Hunting for hidden mickeys can also be a fun way to pass the time. Hidden mickeys are elements in the decor around you that are secretly shaped to resemble Mickey’s head (or sometimes hands). There are THOUSANDS of hidden mickeys located throughout the parks and resorts at Disney.

Enjoy each other!

Line is also a good time to regroup. Ask each other questions. Make everyone stop and think about where they are. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in running from attraction to attraction, we miss how much fun we are having. That sounds silly, but you’d be surprised how often it’s actually true!

What have been the favorite attractions of the day so far? Why? What’s one thing each person wants to do tomorrow? Is there one thing they’ll want to tell their friends about when they get home? What is one thing they’d like to do again later in the day (or week)? Is there a character they’d like to meet?

We sometimes will even play with friends or family back at home. I’ll take a picture of some element in the queue area, and text it to a friend, asking them to guess what attraction I’m on. This is also a good time to post an update to social media. However, as I mentioned above, don’t get drawn into surfing social media. Make your post, and get back to spending time with your family.

Try not to mix short line attractions with long line attractions

This can be tough during busy periods when everything seems like it has long lines. However, when it IS possible, try not to stack attractions with long lines. For example, if you just waited 45 minutes to ride Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, don’t head to Peter Pan, where you will likely have a line at least that long, if not longer. Check wait times around you and choose something with a short line, like It’s a Small World, or the Carousel.

Green Army Man Vinnie Toy Story Mania — Heading to Toy Story Mania (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

Also, if you’ve spend a lot of time in line on your feet, try to fit in a show-type attraction where everyone can sit down for a while and give their legs and feet a break. Alternatively, take a sit down snack break and let everyone rest a bit before heading to the next attraction with a line.

Take a break!

If you find yourself feeling frustrated, overheated or aggravated, it’s time for a break. Trust me, you will enjoy the rest of your day a lot more if you take a few minutes or a few hours and take a break.

We often go back to our resort for 3 – 5 hours in the afternoon. We like to give everyone a chance to cool off or to rest. Sometimes we go to the pool, sometimes we nap, sometimes we just rest for a bit. Over the years, I’ve learned that a break like this ultimately adds a lot of enjoyment to the rest of our day.

If you aren’t staying on property, or if your resort is a long distance from the park you are visiting, returning to your resort for a break may not be practical. However, you can still take a break and rest for a bit. If you are at Magic Kingdom, ride the monorail loop for a while. Or take the ferry over to the ticket and transport center and back. The WDW Railroad is closed until 2021, but once it reopens, it is another great way to sit down, enjoy the breeze and relax.

If you’re at Epcot or Hollywood Studios, you can take the Skyliner for a ride. You can visit the boardwalk. Or just find a shady spot, grab a bottle of water or a drink and relax for a while. This works at Animal Kingdom too! Lots of great places to sit and relax.

Parades and Fireworks can be your friends

Personally, I am a fireworks junkie. I love Disney fireworks and they are often the highlight of any day I spend at Disney. However, I recognize that not everyone feels this way.

Fireworks Waiting in line — Magic Kingdom Fireworks (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

If fireworks aren’t your thing (or if you’ve seen them once and don’t need to see them again) you can take advantage of shorter lines during fireworks shows. Unless the fireworks happen after the park closes, you will usually find that so many people go to watch the fireworks, the lines for attractions drop dramatically in the hour leading up to and during the fireworks.

Also, a lot of people leave the parks following the following a fireworks show–which can also lead to shorter lines. This doesn’t always work, but can be helpful when it does. For example, the fireworks shows at Epcot and Hollywood Studios usually take place at park close, so the attractions close as the show starts (in most cases). BUT, if you’re visiting a park that stays open AFTER the fireworks, you should enjoy shorter lines.

Similarly, lines are usually a little shorter leading up to and during parades. Guests claim viewing spots up to one hour before the parade, and take about 15 minutes to disperse after the parade. The difference isn’t as dramatic as during fireworks shows, but it can be a good window to try and ride a popular attraction with a shorter line.

Boo to You Halloween Parade — Halloween Parade (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

We tend to skip the afternoon parades in favor of returning to our resort for a break, but I’m a sucker for both the Halloween parade and the Christmas parade. If you’re attending a party, and the parade is running twice? Skip the first parade in favor of riding attractions! The second parade will be less congested, and you’ll benefit from slightly shorter lines during the first parade!

VIP Tours

If you are visiting during a very busy time or truly have no patience with lines, you may want to consider a VIP Tour. VIP Tours are pricey, but they offer a luxury experience for the guests and completely or mostly eliminate lines. You won’t ride every attraction, but VIP Tour guides will make sure you ride the attractions that are most important to you and your family. If you would like more information about VIP Tours, email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com.

Attitude = Happy Vacation

Honestly, the healthier your attitude is about waiting in line, the happier your vacation at Disney will be. It is unavoidable. You will have to wait in some lines, and you will often be surrounded by lots of people.

The choice is yours. You can choose to let the lines make you cranky, or you can appreciate the quality time you are spending with your family. Choose to appreciate that you are seeing families from all over the world, enjoying the same activities that you are and your family are enjoying. You can notice the details in the queues, and enjoy those queues that feature interesting scenes, cooler climates or interactive games.

Flight of Passage Queue Animal Kingdom — The queue for Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom has some cool scenes (Photo: Brooke Hudson)

Some of the memories that stick with me the most are silly moments in line. Playing with the kids, getting the giggles, meeting people from all over the world, people watching-these moments are the real magic! In fact, the moment I realized I was in love with my (then future) husband happened in line for It’s a Small World during our first trip together. Who knows? Maybe if there hadn’t been a line that day, we wouldn’t have ended up here!

Waiting in line isn’t a terrible thing. Yes, I spend a lot of time on this blog and with my clients planning to avoid lines as much as possible. But it’s important to realize that some lines are going to be part of your trip. It’s up to you how you’ll respond to them. Choosing to make the lines you end up in a magical moment of your trip? That is the secret to a truly memorable vacation!

Wedding Trip: Toy Story Mania (Photo: Brooke and Frank)

Happy dreaming,

Brooke

Disney World and Disneyland Closing Due to Coronavirus

Breaking news! The Walt Disney Company announced today that Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris and Disneyland will be closing due to the coronavirus. In addition, Disney Cruise Line departures are cancelled through the end of March.

These new Disney theme park closures follow the closures of Shanghai Disney, Tokyo Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland earlier this month.

Earlier this week, we gave you an update regarding Disney’s policies and procedures for both U.S. Disney Parks and Resorts and Disney Cruise Line. If you’d like to review that article, please visit here.

However, in just a few days, the coronavirus has caused increasing concerns worldwide, affecting the decisions of people all over the globe. As a result, Disney has announced that Disney Parks in the U.S. and France will close beginning March 16, 2020. The parks will remain closed through the end of the month.

Disney World and Disneyland Closing due to coronavirus — Photo: Brooke Hudson

Disney’s Official Statements

Disney released these statements late Thursday afternoon.

Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris and Disney Cruise Line

“In an abundance of caution and in the best interest of our Guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of our theme parks at Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida and Disneyland Paris Resort, beginning at the close of business on Sunday, March 15, through the end of the month.

Disney Cruise Line will suspend all new departures beginning Saturday, March 14, through the end of the month.

The Walt Disney Company will pay its Cast Members during that closure period.

The hotels at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris will remain open until further notice. The retail and dining complexes, Disney Springs at Walt Disney World and Disney Village at Disneyland Paris, will remain open.

Domestic Walt Disney Company employees who are able to work from home are being asked to do so, including those at The Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Television, ESPN, Direct-to-Consumer, and Parks, Experiences and Products.

We will continue to stay in close contact with appropriate officials and health experts.”

Disneyland and California Adventure

“While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Disneyland® Resort, after carefully reviewing the guidelines of the Governor of California’s executive order and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, beginning the morning of March 14 through the end of the month.

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will remain open until Monday, March 16 to give guests the ability to make necessary travel arrangements; Downtown Disney will remain open. We will monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state officials and health agencies. Disney will continue to pay cast members during this time.

Disneyland Resort will work with guests who wish to change or cancel their visits, and will provide refunds to those who have hotel bookings during this closure period. We anticipate heavy call volume over the next several days and appreciate guests’ patience as we work hard to respond to all inquiries.

Please contact The Walt Disney Travel Company for questions and cancellations at 714.52.5050.”

Questions You May Have

To learn more about the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the U.S. response to it by visiting the CDC.

What if I have a vacation package booked while the parks are closed?

You can cancel or modify your room reservation or Walt Disney Travel Company package up until your original scheduled check in date. There will be no fee to change your dates or cancel your package. If you take no action to change or cancel, Disney will automatically process a refund to your original form of payment within seven days of your original check in date.

What if I have a vacation package booked after March 31? (But I don’t want to travel during that time?)

Disney has temporarily changed their change and cancellation policy. If you have a room reservation or vacation package with a check in date through June 30, 2020, you can change your dates or cancel your reservation with no penalty or cancellation fee.

How does the closure impact my annual pass?

Annual passes will be extended by the number of days the parks are closed. (Note: Disney has officially answered this question for WDW Annual Passes, but I am fairly confident that the same will hold true for Disneyland Annual Passes.)

What if I have date specific theme park tickets for the period the parks will be closed?

Unexpired multi-day theme park tickets with unused days or date specific theme park tickets with a start date on or before March 31, 2020 will be automatically extended to use any date before December 15, 2020. If you can’t visit the parks prior to December 15, 2020, you may apply the value of your wholly unused ticket toward the purchase of a ticket for a future date.

What if I have a ticket for Disney After Hours, Disney Villains After Hours or Disney Early Morning Magic between March 16, 2020 and March 31, 2020?

Your ticket will be automatically refunded because those events are being cancelled.

What if I’ve prepaid for a dining reservation or an experience reservation like Build a Droid ? (Scheduled between March 16, 2020 and March 31, 2020?)

All prepaid dining and experience reservations will be automatically refunded if they were scheduled to occur between March 16, 2020 and March 31, 2020.

What about dining reservations that I guaranteed with a credit card?

You will not pay a cancellation or no-show fee for reservations at locations impacted by the closures.

Disney World and Disneyland Closing Due to Coronavirus — Final Thoughts

I am disappointed that Disney made these decisions to close their parks worldwide. However, I understand that governmental and public pressures made this result almost inevitable.

I am very happy to see that Disney will continue to pay all cast members impacted by the closures. When I first heard this news, I was very concerned for the cast members. It’s fairly well known that Disney cast members’ wages are pretty low. I suspect many cast members live paycheck to paycheck as do so many people these days. The impact of two weeks without pay could be ruinous to many people. I am glad to see that Disney is stepping up and taking care of their people.

It is of course possible that Disney could elect to extend these closures beyond the end of March; however, I am hopeful that will not be necessary. I hope that in April, we will see a return to normalcy across the country and the world; not just for Disney but for all of us.

What are your thoughts about Disney World and Disneyland closing due to the coronavirus? Do you have any vacation plans impacted by these closures? Please comment with your thoughts below.

Please take care of yourselves and those you love!

Happy Dreaming!

Brooke

Disney PhotoPass and Disney Memory Maker

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