Keeping the Kids Happy at Epcot

September 20, 2017 by Janice Brady Leave a Comment

I wanted to revive this older post because I have recently been reading on social media some recommending that people skip Epcot with kids. There is much more to Epcot than Frozen Ever After! Epcot is a wonderful way to spend a day with little ones. It’s also a much more relaxed day than the other parks so gives the kids plenty to do but at a slower pace so is an ideal mid-week park. Get a bit of a rest but still Lots of fun!

I’m always surprised when I hear people say there isn’t anything for their kids to do at EPCOT or that their young kids don’t like EPCOT. My kids loved going to EPCOT and now my granddaughter loves going to EPCOT. Admittedly, there was a little more for the little ones when my kids where young, but it’s still possible to keep the kids engaged and happy spending a day there.

Food

I like to have a meal in a different country of World Showcase each time we visit to expose the kids to different foods of the world. I know many say their kids won’t eat different food but you actually will never know if you don’t try!

Meet the Characters

Just like every other park at Walt Disney World, EPCOT offers characters for the kids to meet and greet. There are even a few that won’t be found in any of the other parks.

Get Your Passports Stamped

EPOT is home of the “Kidcot” program. All of the World Showcase countries have “Kidcot stations”. The kids are given a picture of Duffy the Bear to color and at each station they can get a stamp on their passport or autograph book and can sit and decorate their bear. Yes, “FREE” is a word rarely heard in Walt Disney World. The kids will also learn how to say “Hello” in each of the different languages. Kids love the idea of “collecting” the stamps and in the process will be taught some new skills.

Kidcot Fun Stops keep the kids motivated to travel to each country in the World Showcase country. Even young kids will have fun coloring at the free craft stations. If you purchase the passport for the kids they will also receive stickers to decorate the book and there is a scavenger hunt aspect of filling the passport and it makes a great souvenir of the day at EPCOT. If you don’t want to purchase a passport, they can still collect stamps and participate in the activities at the Kidcot station in each land using their autograph book or participate without collecting the stamps. No child is turned away!

Go Undercover

School-aged kids LOVE Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure. There are several locations where you can sign up for this FREE (yes! Free again!) activity and pick up the interactive handheld device that will guide them through the mission searching for clues throughout the countries of the World Showcase. Each mission only takes about 20 to 30 minutes and has the kids eager to explore the country pavilions.

Special Events

EPCOT hosts special events throughout the year. The EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival is held each spring and features beautiful flower displays and topiaries of favorite Disney characters. There are also various activities, seminars, and classes available for the kids to take. Holidays Around the World is another great celebration, where the kids will learn about holiday traditions from around the world.

Fireworks

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth fireworks show is the perfect way to end a day at EPCOT. Some of the restaurants in the World Showcase offer great views of the fireworks right from your dinner table.

Pick a Pearl

Head to the Japan Pavilion and “Pick a Pearl” in the store. They will open the oyster and present your pearl. You can have them set it in a piece of jewelry or take it home as is.

MOUSEllaneous!

Teaching children about the different countries represented throughout EPCOT is an important part of their vacation. The entire day can be educational as well as fun!

The Living Seas has a focus on “Finding Nemo” and every kid loves spending time there, especially “Turtle Talk With Crush”.

Journey Into Imagination is a cute ride for all ages. When you are finished riding the attraction, there are all sorts of interactive stations for the kids to enjoy at the “ImageWorks Lab. (You don’t have to go on the ride to access this area.)

Throughout the day most of the countries offer scheduled entertainment. All of it is family-friendly. My family can watch the acrobats in China over and over again!

“Living with the Land” offers a boat ride. The kids will love seeing the fish and baby alligators in one section you go through!

There really is more than enough to keep the little ones busy for a day at EPCOT ~ what are some of the ways your family enjoys EPCOT with the little ones?

Holiday Time at Walt Disney World – Don’t Miss Any of It!

September 19, 2017 by Janice Brady 1 Comment

If you’ll be heading to Walt Disney World during the holiday season this year, there is so much you won’t want to miss! The parks will be full of special events, beautiful decorations, spectacular parades, meet and greets and more! The holiday season at Walt Disney World is one of my favorite times to visit even if it’s just to look at the transformation and beautiful decorations.

The entire Walt Disney World property – parks, resorts and Disney Springs will be magically transformed into a Dis-nified Winter Wonderland in that special way that only Disney can do. Here’s some of what you can look forward to if you’ll be traveling to Walt Disney World during the holidays this year:

All-new experiences, characters, festive treats and spectacular entertainment make it the most wonderful time of the year at all four parks and beyond!

Walt Disney World Resort is the place to be this holiday season as theme parks and resort hotels sparkle with jolly decorations that bring the spirit of the season to life. Here’s a sampling of the holiday fun in store for guests:

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Guests can get wrapped up in a Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios from Nov. 9-Dec. 31, with exciting new holiday happenings around the park and the return of the nighttime projection and fireworks show “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!”

NEW! Sunset Seasons Greetings – This new holiday experience features spectacular projections of Mickey, Minnie and other beloved Disney characters sharing their favorite Christmas stories as a snowy Sunset Boulevard twinkles with stunning holiday decorations. Holiday magic brings billboards to life and transforms the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel into scenes of the season – a giant pile of Christmas gifts, a gingerbread house and a frozen winter wonderland! A frosty summer-loving snowman might even make an appearance to share his holiday wish! This fantastic and heartwarming experience runs continuously throughout the night.
NEW! Enhanced holiday décor around Echo Lake – Extra-large ornaments, colorful garlands and a giant Christmas tree centered on the water will make Echo Lake the merriest of places this holiday season. Even Dinosaur Gertie will be dressed for the occasion with a dino-sized Santa hat.
“Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Returns – The hit holiday show returns Nov. 9 sending beloved Disney animated characters on a spirited yuletide adventure to get Santa back to the North Pole in time for Christmas Eve. “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” combines state-of-the-art projections, fireworks, special effects and Christmas music to create a dazzling, one-of-a-kind holiday experience for guests – capped by a special message from Santa himself.
“Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Dessert Party – Guests can wrap up their jolly holiday evenings with reserved viewing of the “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” nighttime spectacular. The nightly party includes holiday-inspired snacks, delicious desserts, wine, beer, and specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. A surprise Disney character will also join the fun, posing for pictures and signing autographs. This fun-filled special event is offered Nov. 9-Dec. 30, 2017. Book online at disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining or call (407) WDW-DINE.
A new friend joins the cast of ‘For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration’ – Holiday fun continues at the Hyperion Theater as Anna, Elsa and Kristoff welcome Olaf to this popular sing-along celebration. Just for the holidays the show will include all-new songs from Disney’s new animated short “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.”
Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood and Vine – Meet Minnie, Mickey, Daisy, Donald and Goofy for lunch and dinner celebrations centered on seasonal deliciousness. From Nov. 6-Jan. 7, the mouse-with-the-mostest will deck the halls for a banquet filled with holiday cheer and the joy of the season! To make a reservation, check availability and book online visit disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining or call (407) WDW-DINE.
Santa Claus returns to the Once Upon a Time shop Nov. 9-Dec. 24 – The beautiful vintage setting of the Once Upon a Time shop recalls bygone days of Santa’s visits to great department stores across the country. Santa will be at the shop daily to greet guests and listen to holiday wishes. Santa Goofy will step in 25-Dec. 31 after Old Saint Nick returns to the North Pole.

Epcot

Holidays Around the World is transforming into the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays from Nov. 9-Dec. 30, surrounding guests once again in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season.

NEW! Holiday Kitchens – The number of holiday kitchens doubles in size this year to a total of 15, each bringing the flavors of the season to life. New this year, guests can indulge in cookies and desserts at the holiday kitchen located inside the Odyssey complex. Sweet treats include snowflake sugar cookies and a warm apple fritter with cinnamon ice cream and caramel sauce. Over at the Canada pavilion, dazzling delicacies like the Maple Buche de Noel (maple mousse rolled in gingerbread chiffon cake with cranberry sauce and pecan crumble) celebrate holiday traditions from the Great White North.
NEW! Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree – Chip and Dale are collecting ornaments for their Christmas tree. Guests can purchase a map and stickers from select merchandise locations and travel around World Showcase looking for the famous chipmunks with their ornaments. Guests can return their completed maps for a festive surprise, courtesy of Chip and Dale. Maps are available for $5.99 plus tax.
NEW! Candlelight Processional Narrators – One of the most popular Epcot traditions returns with new celebrity narrators in 2017. Pat Sajak, Matt Bomer and CCH Pounder will join the lineup of returning favorites like Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg and Jaci Velasquez. The Candlelight Processional is a retelling of the Christmas story as told by a celebrity narrator accompanied by 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. The show takes place at the America Gardens Theatre each evening at 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Candlelight dinner packages can be reserved by visiting the Disney website.
NEW! Holiday Entertainment – Enjoy the sights and sounds of the nations of World Showcase, as each country’s holiday heritage comes to life amid joyful music and time-honored traditions. Guests will discover an entertaining celebration of Hanukkah in a new location along World Showcase promenade, where a fun and interactive band interweaves the music of Hanukkah with jazz, Latin, rock and even hip-hop influences. Other returning holiday favorites include JOYFUL! A Gospel Celebration of the Season and Canadian Holiday Voyageurs.
Fireworks Finale – The nightly fireworks display, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, will feature a special holiday ending.

Magic Kingdom

A Frozen Holiday Wish – Behold an enchanting performance to melt a frozen heart. Royal sisters Anna and Elsa lead a celebration on the Castle Forecourt Stage nightly Nov. 9-Dec. 31. Featuring special appearances by rugged mountain man Kristoff and lovable snowman Olaf, this merry-and-bright seasonal show culminates in Queen Elsa using her incredible powers to present a gift to everyone in the kingdom – transforming Cinderella Castle into a glimmering, shimmering ice palace for the holidays.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – It’s a Christmas party like no other, with joyous music, a shimmering Cinderella Castle, characters in their festive finery and the Magic Kingdom decked out and made even more magical for merry-making guests of all ages. Each specially ticketed, limited-attendance event features an exclusive performance of Holiday Wishes fireworks and the earliest performances of other spectaculars like Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, the Frozen Holiday Wish castle-lighting ceremony and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show. The special party – complete with cookies, cocoa and snow flurries – begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours. Parties will be held on November 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26 and 28, and December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21 and 22.

For more information and to purchase tickets for this after-hours party, visit DisneyWorld.com/Christmasparty.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade – This enchanting holiday pageant sings and dances its way through the Magic Kingdom park daily Dec. 23-Dec 31. It also makes a special appearance at each Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Brimming with magic and cheer, the parade features Santa Claus, gingerbread men, elves, reindeer, toy soldiers and other friends from the North Pole. They all join Mickey and friends – including Arendelle favorites Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf – in an over-the-top celebration of the season.
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration – From Dec 23-Dec. 31, Mickey and Minnie take to Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage where they host some of their Disney friends for an unforgettable Christmas soiree filled with classic and contemporary holiday songs. Magical holiday projections on Cinderella Castle build to a sensational, snowy finale. Performances are also featured during each Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

It’s a wild holiday time as decorations around the park frame new day-into-nighttime experiences, including Tree of Life transformations, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Kali Rivers Rapids and Expedition Everest. Guests will be greeted by a dramatic, animal-themed holiday tree, and festive garlands will have the park all a-glow with merriment.

Disney Springs

Every corner of Disney Springs is wrapped and ready for the season with holiday décor and special entertainment, making it the most wonderful place to shop. From top name-brands to cozy one-of-a kind retailers and, of course, all things Disney, there’s something for everyone. Busy shoppers can also take a break and enjoy a quick snack on the go or an unforgettable meal at one of Disney Springs many talked-about restaurants.

Here’s a sampling of what’s new:

NEW! An Even Bigger Christmas Tree Trail – To capture the spirit of the season, Marketplace guests can stroll among custom decorated holiday trees, each dedicated to a popular Disney theme. This year, the Christmas Tree Trail will expand to include ten new trees inspired by Disney classics such as Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, Snow White and Dumbo.
Santa’s Chalet – Santa Claus is accepting Christmas wish lists and welcoming guests to his chalet newly located by the Christmas Tree Trail through Dec. 24.
Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt – The mischievous experiment 626 returns to Disney Springs with an expanded scavenger hunt now featuring four new stops, including a special stop at the expanded Christmas Tree Trail.

Holiday Fun beyond the Parks:

The warmth of the holiday season brings cheer to more than 25 Disney resorts.

Every resort across Walt Disney World is decked out for the holidays. Entertainment abounds, including carolers performing on select nights at many resorts.

At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, guests can take in the grandeur of quintessential Pacific Northwest yuletide cheer beneath the towering lobby Christmas tree, as they cozy up to the fire and relax with a cup of hot cider and snack on holiday treats. They can also relax lakeside and enjoy a seasonal cocktail at Geyser Point Bar & Grill, then settle around the campfire with s’mores and hot chocolate at nightfall.
At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the Hoop-de-Doo Musical Revue spruces up for the season with live holiday music by the Pioneer Hall Players, including favorites like “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” and “Another Tennessee Christmas.” On select nights, the campground’s beloved carolers arrive by hay wagon spreading holiday cheer to all.

Resort guests can also experience life-sized edible creations at select Walt Disney World Resorts.

An annual treat, at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, is a life-sized holiday gingerbread house. This eye-filling (and aromatic) sight is in the resort lobby and is home to The Bake Shop that uses a classic gingerbread recipe from Austria for its tasty cookies and ornaments.
A life-sized, edible spinning carousel is a holiday tradition at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, while a holiday village with miniature train takes center stage at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Three all-new New Year’s Eve Celebrations coming to Disney’s Contemporary Resort:

“Disney Countdown to Midnight” includes delightful dining, live music, libations and more. An interactive band and DJ will fill the dance floor (and we hear that Mickey and Minnie may make a special appearance). Then welcome in 2018 with a flute of bubbly and a viewing of those legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks in Magic Kingdom Park. Hours are 8 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom. This party is designed for guests 18 and older.
PIXAR PARTY– A New Year’s Eve Celebration: This party celebrates beginnings with a Disney Pixar-inspired dinner the entire family is sure to enjoy. This unique celebration lets families ring the New Year together. It features a buffet-style dinner, Disney characters, activities for the little ones, a trendy DJ and exclusive viewing of Magic Kingdom fireworks!
“Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience” in the Grand Republic Ballroom is a fine-dining experience inspired by the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” Toward the end of the evening an amazing vocalist, reminiscent of Tiana, joins the band to bring to life the Academy Award-winning classics of legendary composer, Randy Newman. Guests can then slip outside with a glass of bubbly just before midnight to ring in 2018 with a private viewing area for the Magic Kingdom Park fireworks. Hours are 7 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.

No holiday is complete without a special dining experience. Holiday menus that celebrate the season can be found at restaurants throughout Walt Disney World Resort. For holiday dining information and reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE.

After Irma – WDW Parks Reopening Information

September 11, 2017 by Janice Brady Leave a Comment

After being closed for two days due to Hurricane Irma, Walt Disney World Resort has announced the parks will reopen on Tuesday, September 12, 2017 with the following hours:

Magic Kingdom

Extra Magic Hours 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Park Hours 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 7 p.m. to midnight

Epcot

Park Hours 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Extra Magic Hours 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Park Hours 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Park Hours 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Disney Springs

Hours 10 a.m. to midnight

Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon will remain closed until further notice.

Using the Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World

August 11, 2017 by Janice Brady Leave a Comment

While at Walt Disney World in June, I had my 85 year old mom with me. Mom can no longer walk through the parks all day and uses a scooter. I had noticed on the last trip she was with me, about a year ago, that going in and out of the rides, from full sunshine to shady darkness, sometimes bothered her eyes taking her quite a few minutes to adjust to the change in light. I also knew this year that she would not be able to stand or wait in any lines and would need to take the scooter as far into the attraction as possible.

On our first day in the parks, I took mom and her scooter and headed into Guest Relations to ask about a Disability Access Service Card. I wasn’t sure whether or not we would be granted use of the service but I have to say – it was an easy and quick process, and I was pleasantly surprised at how understanding the Cast Members were. I explained that mom could not stand in lines and would need to take the scooter as far into the attraction as possible and that the change in light from full sunshine to shade seemed to bother her vision on our last visit. I was afraid the change in light would make her unsteady. Without hesitation we were granted the service. The Cast Member asked how many people in our party (8) and explained the service would be valid for 14 days. The standard guideline allows for the service to include a party of 6 but since 2 of our party were children (one an infant only 6 months old) they allowed our entire party to be included. I was thrilled with this special allowance. After taking moms picture, and connecting all members of our party, a few clicks on the computer and a brief explanation on how to use the service – we were on our way. In prior years, guests would receive a physical paper pass but with the systems now in place, the pass is added directly into your My Disney Experience Account and handled electronically.

Previously known as the Guest Assistance Card (GAC), the Disability Access Service is designed to accommodate guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). DAS will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations and will offer guests a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. As soon as the Guest finishes one attraction, they can receive a return time for another. This service can be used in addition to Disney’s FASTPASS+.

At each attraction we wanted to use the service for, I would take mom’s MagicBand to the FastPass line telling the Cast Member we would like a return time using the DAS. Mom’s MagicBand would be scanned and we would receive a return time for our party. Although I was able to receive a return time for our group, the person the service is assigned to (mom) must board the attraction with the group when it’s time. There were several times throughout each park that we were able to board the attraction immediately.

In most cases, the Cast Member would issue a return time for the attraction based on the current wait, minus 10 or 15 minutes (this is at the CM’s discretion and the return times can sometimes vary). For instance, if it’s noon and you’d like to ride the Jungle Cruise and the current wait is 50 minutes, you will receive a return time for 12:40. You can get a snack, visit another ride, or use your regular FastPass+ during the wait time to keep busy. The DAS can be used in addition to your FastPass+ allotment for the day, and was good for the length of our trip.

When visiting Walt Disney World and you are unsure of whether or not you or a member of your party will be able to use the service, go and ask. The fact that my mom would get unsteady (a little disoriented) with the change from sun light to dark coupled with her age making it difficult for her to stand in line was enough for the service to be issued. Without a doubt it made our trip much easier and much more enjoyable for mom.

The service is completely electronic at this time but some may still receive this type of hard copy pass where return times will be noted on the back.

The DAS Process

To help you as you plan your visit, below is a brief description of how the DAS process works:

♦ You arrive at a Walt Disney World® theme park. Please note: All accommodations will be discussed and provided in person upon arrival. Stop by a Guest Relations Main Entrance location to discuss your specific needs.

♦ Guest Relations Main Entrance locations: City Hall at Magic Kingdom® park, The Guest Relations lobby (near the Main Entrance) at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® theme park, The Guest Relations lobby (near the turnstiles) at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, The Guest Relations lobby (near Spaceship Earth) at Epcot®

♦ Guest Relations Cast Members will work with you individually to provide assistance. Based on your specific needs, DAS or other accommodations may be provided. The goal of DAS is to accommodate Guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability. A Guest whose disability is based solely on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter does not need DAS. Depending on the attraction, Guests utilizing a wheelchair or scooter will either wait in the standard queue or receive a return time at the attraction comparable to the current wait time. If you have additional needs, please discuss them with Guest Relations.

♦ If DAS is provided, the Guest or a guardian will participate in a registration process, which requires having a photo taken of the Guest who requires DAS. If preferred, a photo may be taken of a guardian. Valid theme park ticket media will need to be presented for each member of the party to electronically associate them to the DAS party.

♦ The Guest Relations Cast Member will then review the DAS process and ask for a Guest to accept the terms and conditions.

♦ DAS is good for up to 60 days, based on ticket entitlement*. Once the service has elapsed, it is no longer valid and you will need to return to Guest Relations. *Annual Passholders can obtain DAS for up to 60 days.

♦ Now it’s time to head into the park and enjoy your day! Simply visit an attraction to receive your first return time, which will be comparable to the current wait time for the attraction. Once the return time is issued, you are free to enjoy other theme park activities—such as visiting with a Character, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying entertainment or even riding another attraction while you wait.

♦ Return times are valid until redeemed prior to park closing.

♦ You can only have one active return time at a time. As soon as you finish one attraction, you can receive a return time for the same or a different attraction.

♦ Another member of your travel party can obtain a return time. However, the Guest in possession of DAS must board the attraction with his/her party.

♦ You must have a valid theme park ticket for every member of your party wishing to ride an attraction with you to receive a return time. The return time will be electronically associated to each party member’s valid theme park ticket.

♦ You can use DAS in conjunction with Disney FastPass+ Service.

♦ Are you park hopping? DAS issued at Walt Disney World Resort is good at Magic Kingdom park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

♦ Have additional questions? Please return to Guest Relations. The Guest Relations staff will discuss the personal accommodations you may require and may suggest additional accommodations that can be used in conjunction with DAS. All accommodations will be determined in person at Guest Relations.

What’s Coming to Disney Parks – D23 Recap

July 15, 2017 by Janice Brady Leave a Comment

Disney D23 Recap — All images via Disney Parks Blog.

The announcements out of Anaheim at D23 were overwhelming! Some rumors were confirmed, some rumors not even mentioned and some new and unexpected surprises surfaced. Here’s a recap of all that was announced concerning Disney Parks:

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Announced as Name for Star Wars Lands at Disney Parks

Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts revealed the official name of the Star Wars-inspired lands that are currently under construction at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, and shared details on the immersive experiences guests will be able to enjoy when the lands open in 2019.

The lands, both called Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, will allow guests to visit a remote trading port on the edge of wild space, where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life – and where guests will find themselves in the middle of the action.

The lands will feature two major attractions that put guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. Each attraction – and even the land itself – will offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe like never before.

One attraction will make you feel like you’re on a Star Destroyer inside a hangar bay. It’s an attraction built on a scale we’ve never done before.

The second attraction will give guests the opportunity to fly the Millenium Falcon, piloting the ship, shooting blasters or preparing for hyperspace – all while completing a critical mission. But how you perform on the mission holds even bigger stakes: perform with skill and you may earn extra galactic credits, while bringing the ship back banged up could put you on the list of a bounty hunter. End up on Harkos’s list and you may face a problem if you show up at the local cantina!

Guests will also encounter many familiar faces inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including BB-8, Chewbacca, members of the First Order and – among many others – Rex, the troublesome pilot you may remember from the previous version of a certain Disney attraction who takes on a new role in this land as the DJ at the cantina.

And speaking of the cantina, here guests will be able to try unique concoctions like blue milk. Nearby, they’ll also be able to acquire trinkets and treasures from across the galaxy.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in 2019, first at the Disneyland Resort and later in the year at the Walt Disney World Resort. (No further opening dates have been announced yet.)

First Mickey-Themed Ride-Through Attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A new attraction featuring international icon Mickey Mouse is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort! Details for our first Mickey-themed ride-through attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, were just unveiled during the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 Expo 2017 – and we think you’re going to love it.

On Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, you’ll step through the movie screen and join Mickey and his friends like never before. The attraction will put you inside the wacky and unpredictable world of a Mickey Mouse Cartoon Short where you’re the star and anything can happen. This zany out-of-control adventure features surprising twists and turns, dazzling visual effects and mind-boggling transformations that happen before your very eyes.

The attraction is inspired by the Mickey Shorts that you can see on the Disney Channel. And the people who bring you the shorts at Disney Television Animation are partnering with us to help bring the attraction to life.

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway will feature a new story and a new singable attraction theme song as well as a new experience we’re calling “2 1/2 D.” No glasses required. Walt Disney Imagineer Kevin Rafferty said teams are inventing new technologies that turn the flat world of a colorful cartoon short into a “dimensional display of amazingness.”

“This is one of the boldest…most impossible things I’ve ever worked on in almost 40 years of being an Imagineer. And you know what? That’s what I love about it. Well, that, and Mickey,” Kevin said. “This is not going to be a small attraction, it’s going to be game-changing.”

As you plan ahead, we also wanted to let you know that in order to begin to prepare the new home of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at the Chinese Theatre in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, August 13, 2017 will be the final day of operation for The Great Movie Ride presented by Turner Classic Movies. Until August 13, you can still relive some of the greatest movie moments in history on the Great Movie Ride attraction.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ & ‘Ratatouille’ Attractions Coming to Epcot

Epcot fans, rejoice! Plans were just unveiled at the D23 Expo that the park will receive not one, but two new attractions inspired by popular films.

First, a “Guardians of the Galaxy”-inspired attraction will be added to Future World, adhering to the original vision of Epcot’s Future World as the place to experience the excitement and adventure offered by space travel.

This is an addition we’re really looking forward to, as a “Guardians of the Galaxy” attraction – Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! – debuted at Disney California Adventure park earlier this year to rave reviews from guests. Epcot’s brand new E-ticket attraction will be based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and is the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at the Walt Disney World Resort. Epcot just may be the perfect place for a “Guardians”-inspired attraction as you can see in the photo above – Peter Quill (aka Star Lord) actually visited Epcot as a kid! (Note: This new attraction will replace the current Universe of Energy attraction, which will close August 13, 2017).

Second, a Disney•Pixar’s “Ratatouille”-inspired attraction will also be added to the France Pavilion in World Showcase. The attraction will expand the pavilion. Similar to the 4-D attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure that opened at the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2014, guests will be able to shrink to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant.

According to Disney leaders, both attractions will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort in 2021.

New Tron Attraction Coming to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort

Tron – the highest-rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland– is coming to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida!

The new Tron attraction will sit in an entirely new area right next to the Space Mountain attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, made the announcement during the Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 Expo 2017.

Regular Disney Parks Blog readers know that the TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders board a train of two-wheeled Lightcycles. It offers access into the energy, lights and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe and is one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park.

Also, during today’s presentation, Bob said the plan is to open the Tron attraction in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary in 2021.

First Look: New Space Restaurant to Offer ‘Out-of-this-World’ Dining Experience at Epcot

Disney unveiled exciting plans to create a new restaurant at Epcot that’ll offer amazing meals with spectacular views high above Earth – from space!

The restaurant, which will be located adjacent to the park’s Mission: SPACE attraction, will invite guests to travel into space for amazing dining experiences in the stars. Walt Disney Imagineer Tom Fitzgerald shared a first look at the restaurant during the Walt Disney World Parks and Resortspresentation at D23 Expo 2017.

“We know our guests love dining at Epcot – and the restaurants really are out of this world,” Tom said. “Now we’re about to create one that takes that literally.”

The new space restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group. Patina Restaurant Group operates several other restaurants at Walt Disney World including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs.

Disneyland Paris Brings Favorite Marvel Characters to Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel

Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel is coming to the resort!

As a part of his presentation to the tens of thousands of fans at the D23 Expo in Anaheim today, Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek announced the “reImagination” of the Disney’s Hotel New York into a new Marvel-themed wonderland.

“We’re going to create a hotel at Disneyland Paris that would make Tony Stark proud,” Bob said. “I’m thrilled to announce that Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel will transport our guests to the action-packed, inspiring world of Super Heroes including Iron Man, The Avengers, and Spider Man among others!”

**Plans Unveiled for Star Wars-Inspired Themed Resort at Walt Disney World**

Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, just confirmed that a Star Wars-inspired resort will debut as part of the new Disney 360 vacation concept.

According to Bob, this revolutionary new vacation experience will be a living adventure that allows guests to immerse themselves in an entirely new form of Disney storytelling.

“It’s unlike anything that exists today.” Bob said. “From the second you arrive, you will become a part of a Star Wars story! You’ll immediately become a citizen of the galaxy and experience all that entails, including dressing up in the proper attire. Once you leave Earth, you will discover a starship alive with characters, stories, and adventures that unfold all around you. It is 100% immersive, and the story will touch every single minute of your day, and it will culminate in a unique journey for every person who visits.”

Disney Skyliner, New Minnie Vehicles to Transport Guests Around Walt Disney World Resort

A brand new transportation system is coming to the Walt Disney World Resort to add even more magic to your future vacation experiences. Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resortsjust announced that the Disney Skyliner will soon give guests a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort.

The transportation system will connect Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century and Caribbean Beach resorts and other locations with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. And many of the gondolas with Disney Skyliner will feature favorite Disney characters

Another new transportation service featuring vehicles themed to the one-and-only Minnie Mouse was also announced during the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 Expo 2017.

“Since we’re all about exceeding guest expectations and making every aspect of your vacation uniquely Disney, we’re creating a new point-to-point transportation service in a way that only Disney can do,” Bob said.

The Minnie vehicles will take you everywhere you want to go at the Walt Disney World Resort, and you’ll ride in Minnie’s classic style.

New Theater Inspired By Kansas City’s Willis Wood Theater To Debut at Walt Disney World ResortA new venue for world-class entertainment is coming to Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. And a first look at the new theater was just unveiled minutes ago at D23 Expo 2017.

If the image of the theater looks familiar, that’s because the new entertainment venue will be based on the iconic Willis Wood theater in 1920s Kansas City, where Walt lived after he left Marceline. And as you can see from the design, it’ll fit well right off Main Street, U.S.A.

“Across Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, we’ve been upping the game in Entertainment with shows like Frozen Live at the Hyperion,” Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts said. “It’s been a huge hit at the Disneyland Resort, and I’m sure many of you have seen it. This new theater at Walt Disney World continues that streak by bringing a new venue for world-class entertainment to the world’s biggest park.”

Toy Story Land to Open at Walt Disney World Resort in Summer 2018Many of you know that Toy Story Land is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – we’ve shared several updates on this exciting project. Today, Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts announced that the land will open next summer!

In 2018, you’ll find yourself shrunk to the size of a toy to explore the world of Andy’s backyard with your favorite Toy Story characters, including Woody and Buzz. And Toy Story Land will feature two new themed attractions.

Slinky Dog Dash will be a family coaster attraction where you’ll zip, dodge and dash around many turns and drops that Andy has created to really make Slinky and his coils stretch to his limits.

Alien Swirling Saucers will also be a new attraction at Toy Story Land. It’s designed as a toy play set that Andy got from Pizza Planet, inspired by the first “Toy Story” film. Aliens are flying around in their toy flying saucers and trying to capture your rocket toy vehicle with “The Claw.”

New Pixar Pier to Bring Favorite Pixar Stories to Life at Disney California Adventure Park; Limited-Time Pixar Fest Celebration Coming Throughout Disneyland Resort

In addition to the amazing experiences for Disney Parks around the world announced today at D23 Expo by Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, a new immersive experience was just announced for Disney California Adventure park in California! In 2018, more of your favorite Pixar stories will come to Disney California Adventure park with the new Pixar Pier.

Pixar Pier will feature a brand-new look for the area now known as Paradise Pier, as some of your favorite characters come to life on this seaside waterfront. You will discover whimsical neighborhoods filled with your friends from “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out” and even more of your pals from “Toy Story.” Building upon the evolution of Disney California Adventure park that began in 2007, we are building more new worlds for you to step into and enjoy your favorite stories.

This permanent addition to the park will open during a new limited-time celebration taking place throughout the Disneyland Resort in 2018 — Pixar Fest! Experience the magical worlds of Pixar in brand new ways as the entire resort comes alive with some of your favorite stories.

At Disneyland park, this incredible celebration will feature a brand-new fireworks spectacular as well as the return of the guest favorite, Pixar Play Parade. That’s right! This popular parade is moving across the Esplanade, which could only mean …

The popular “Paint the Night” parade returns — this time, to Disney California Adventure park! And if you’re as excited as I am by that news, then hold onto your jet packs, Space Rangers — because we’ve also learned that there may even be a new float joining this already amazing nighttime parade.

Disney Cruise Line Planning Not Two, But Three New Ships

Disney fans attending D23 in Anaheim got a huge surprise today. They were the first to hear that Disney Cruise Line is planning not two, but three new ships in the next phase of expansion. By the time these three ships are sailing, we’ll have nearly doubled the size of our fleet! That means more families than ever before will be visiting spectacular destinations around the globe and creating magical memories at sea!

Last year, we told you that two new ships were going to be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany with scheduled completion dates of 2021 and 2023. This additional ship will be built at the same shipyard and is scheduled to be completed in 2022.

“We decided two ships wouldn’t be enough to hold all of the exciting new experiences we have been dreaming up to take family cruise vacations to a whole new level with immersive Disney storytelling, world-class family entertainment, and imaginative innovations that are fantastically fun and uniquely Disney,” Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, said.

All ship names, design plans and itineraries are still in development, with each of the ships expected to have their own unique experiences. The three new ships will be powered by clean-burning liquefied natural gas and be the same size – approximately 135,000 gross tons with about 1,250 guest staterooms planned – which is slightly larger than the newest Disney Cruise Line ships, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

With a legacy of revolutionary design, Disney Cruise Line’s new ships will usher in the next generation of innovative cruise experiences designed especially for families that will transform the art-of-cruising and take guests on adventures in a way never dreamed of before.

Immersive Super Hero Experience Coming to Disney California Adventure Park

Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, gave a hint at what’s to come next for some of your favorite Super Heroes at Disney California Adventure park. Soon, the Guardians of the Galaxy will be joined by Spider-Man and the Avengers in what will become a completely immersive Super Hero universe at the park.

These new stories will build on the success of the new and already popular Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT! and create a place where you can team up with your favorite Super Heroes like never before. We don’t have more details to share just yet, but keep an eye on Disney Parks Blog as we reveal more about this one-of-a-kind experience.

So – there you have it folks – all that is in the works for Disney Parks. It looks like the 50th Anniversary in 2021 will be HUGE!