New Star Wars Fireworks Spectacular Coming in June
This new nighttime show, which will be the most elaborate fireworks display in this park’s history, will begin nightly performances on June 17, 2016. This elaborate show will combine fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that will turn the park’s Chinese Theater and other buildings into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations. And the show, which will feature music from throughout the film franchise, will be punctuated with a tower of fire and spotlight beams, creating a massive lightsaber in the sky.
Related:
Most Elaborate Fireworks in Park History Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios
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Darren is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist with Magical Vacations Travel. For discounts, offers, ways to save money, visit SaveAtWDW.com
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Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire Coming to Magic Kingdom
Recently, I shared some details about “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire,” coming to the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort, and today I'm pleased to tell you this fantastically fun new show will make its debut on June 17, 2016!
“Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” celebrates the unique stories of the citizens who make up this magical kingdom and the wonderful things that can happen when we try new things, go to new places and get to know new friends.
Darren is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist with Magical Vacations Travel. For discounts, offers, ways to save money, visit SaveAtWDW.com
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Soarin' Over California Returning to Epcot
Epcot Guests will enjoy farewell flights when the classic Soarin’ returns to The Land pavilion in Future World starting May 27, 2016. The attraction reopens at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort before the new film, Soarin’ Around the World, debuts next month Disney parks in Shanghai, California and Florida.
Disney FastPass+ service will be available starting today for this limited opportunity to enjoy the classic Soarin’ experience at Epcot.
The new film, Soarin’ Around the World, debuts June 17 at Epcot.
Related:
FastPass Date Set for new Soarin' Around the World at Epcot
Behind the Scenes: Making Soarin' Around the World
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialistat Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
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FastPasses Available Now for Disney's Animal Kingdom Nighttime Events
FastPass+ and dining packages for Disney’s Animal Kingdom night experiences are available now!
Kilimanjaro Safaris and Harambe Village
After the sun sets, you will be able to explore Kilimanjaro Safaris and see the nighttime behavior of the wildlife and better tune in to the unique vocalization of the animals like never before. Among the new experiences, the village of Harambe in Africa will become the place to enjoy “Wildlife Parti” and the spirited community of Discovery Island will come together to celebrate their love of the natural world with the Discover Island Carnivale.
Tree of Life
Beginning May 27, animal spirits will be brought to life each night at the Tree of Life by magical fireflies that reveal colorful stories of wonder and enchantment along with other amazing sights and lighting effects at the tree.
DISCOVERY RIVER
At Disney's Animal Kingdom, Discovery River will become a stunning stage for performances of the limited-engagement show The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic, inspired by the live-action film Disney’s The Jungle Book. Shows will feature memorable moments from the film, including the iconic Shere Khan, and will be filled with music and special effects that celebrate the movie and classic songs, infused with an Indian influence.
Related
Animal Kingdom Nighttime Attractions
Tiffins Restaurant Coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom
Sneak Peek at Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist at Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015 Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Royal Sommerhus Opening Date Set
As recently shared, the highly anticipated meet and greet area with Anna and Elsa will be opening June 21, 2016 at Epcot. FastPass+ for the Royal Sommerhus are not yet available. Anna and Elsa will also make appearances over at Magic Kingdom Park in the new "Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire" castle stage show.
Related:
Disability Access Service at Walt Disney World
The Disability Access Service (DAS) at Walt Disney World is available if a disability makes it difficult to wait in a conventional queue environment, providing the opportunity to receive a return time similar to the posted wait time for the given attraction. Once you receive a return time, you are free to enjoy other theme park offerings such as meeting a character, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying entertainment or even visiting another attraction until your designated
return time. This service can be used in addition to Disney FastPass+ service.
If you need any assistance during your upcoming visit, including issuance of the DAS, please visit a Guest Relations location once you arrive at any Disney Park. Our Guest Relations Cast Members will work directly with you to discuss your overall needs, and they are ready to help.
In the meantime, to help you plan your visit, we've developed a guide for our Guests with Disabilities that provides pertinent information as well as answers to many Frequently Asked Questions. You can access this guide by visiting the following link:
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilitie
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More Details on the Opening of Frozen Ever After
UPDATE: Frozen Ever After will premiere June 21, 2016 at Epcot
Recently I shared with you that Disney added Frozen Ever After to the Epcot attraction page on the official website. In various literature from Disney we are learning that the opening date will be set sometime in June. Prior to this we were reading that Frozen Ever After would opening "this summer." Disney has also hinted that guests will be singing "Let it Go" long after they exit the attraction, so it would appear this cinematic hit will be featured.
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Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Now make FastPass selections in the daytime, not the middle of the night!
As of today, the Disney FastPass+ selection window will begin at 7 a.m. ET, instead of the previous time of 12 a.m ET. Please note you will be able to start selecting FastPass+ within your applicable window starting at 7 a.m. ET effective immediately:
- Up to 60 days for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels.
- Up to 30 days for guests not staying at select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels, with a ticket purchased prior to arrival.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Free Disney World Coloring Pages
FREE Disney World Coloring Pages available here.
Did you know Disney has FREE Walt Disney World coloring sheets available online? Pumbaa and Timon from Disney's The Lion King promote Theme Park safety with a series of Walt Disney World coloring sheets.
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Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Frozen Ever After Live on Website
Frozen Ever After, one of the most anticipated attractions coming to the Walt Disney World Resort this summer, has been added to the official DisneyWorld.com website. While no opening date or FastPass date has been announced, you can now read a full description of the attraction including height restrictions, backstory and details about the Royal Sommerhus meet and greet cabin. Disney has made several references to a June opening date. Learn More >>
>> Exclusive Offers for the Walt Disney World Resort
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
2016 Walt Disney World Vacation Planning Video - FREE
Check out the 2016 Walt Disney World Vacation Planning video plus resort hotel brochures that you can print or download.
A DVD version can be ordered for free direct from Disney. Read More>>
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
FastPass Date Set for new Soarin' Around the World
You can experience a whole new Soarin' journey when Soarin' Around the World makes its groundbreaking debut across the globe this summer. The next generation of the popular Soarin’ attraction makes its premiere at the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland this summer as Soarin’ Over the Horizon.
FastPass+ Opens April 21, 2016 for Soarin' Around the World at Epcot.
The next day on June 17, Guests at Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort will be able to board the exhilarating aerial adventure that immerses them in a multi-sensory experience, complete with stunning sights, spectacular sounds and even subtle scents. Fastpass+ will be an option for Soarin’ at Walt Disney World Resort beginning Thursday, April 21. In addition to the new film, the Epcot attraction also added a third theater and reimagined its interactive queue.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
What Happened to Rivers of Light?
Disney released a menu of attractions and entertainment coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom Park this summer but what happened to Rivers of Light? The show was originally supposed to open tonight but Disney later announced that it would be delayed. And now, it's not even in the summer lineup of attractions and entertainment.
But even without Rivers of Light, I'm excited to see some new nighttime experiences coming to Animal Kingdom.
Here’s a taste of what to expect:
- “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” Show – For the summer, Discovery River will become the stage for a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film “The Jungle Book.” “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” is filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.
- The Tree of Life Awakens – The park’s iconic Tree of Life undergoes an extraordinary “awakening.” You can expect to see animal spirits come to life throughout the evening by magical fireflies. Each scene appears to emanate from within the tree itself and reveals stories of wonder.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris After Dark – You can enjoy Kilimanjaro Safaris in the evening hours, thanks to special lighting that will allow them to explore the savanna – and its inhabitants – well into the night.
- Harambe Wildlife Parti – Guests can turn into “party animals” at the Harambe Wildlife Parti and enjoy lively African music, exotic foods and drinks, and explore the local marketplace.
- Discovery Island Carnivale – On Discovery Island, you can join the local community in your celebration of you love for nature in this party that features music, dancers, stilt walkers, food and more.
- Tiffins – Guests can enjoy the park’s newest eatery, Tiffins, for both lunch and dinner. Check out this previous post for a peek at what to expect from the menu.
- Nighttime Attractions – The park’s attractions, which will be operating in the nighttime hours, will take on a whole new life. For the first time, guests will be able to experience the thrill of attractions like Expedition Everest and Kali River Rapids – surrounded by darkness. They’ll also be able to enjoy colorful midway games and attractions in DinoLand, U.S.A.
“The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” Show – For the summer, Discovery River will become the stage for a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film “The Jungle Book.” “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” is filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence.
The Tree of Life Awakens – Here's a first look at Animal Kingdom's iconic Tree of Life as it undergoes an extraordinary transformation. You can expect to see animal spirits come to life throughout the evening by magical fireflies. Each scene appears to emanate from within the tree itself and reveals stories of wonder.
Harambe Wildlife Parti – Guests can turn into “party animals” at the Harambe Wildlife Parti and enjoy lively African music, exotic foods and drinks, and explore the local marketplace.
Discovery Island Carnivale – On Discovery Island, guests can join the local community in their celebration of their love for nature in this party that features music, dancers, stilt walkers, food and more.
Nighttime Attractions – The park’s attractions, which will be operating in the nighttime hours, will take on a whole new life. For the first time, guests will be able to experience the thrill of attractions like Expedition Everest and Kali River Rapids – surrounded by darkness. They’ll also be able to enjoy colorful midway games and attractions in DinoLand, U.S.A.
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Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Epcot's Frozen Attraction Takes Guests up to the North Mountain
The Frozen Ever After attraction that’s currently being constructed in the Norway Pavilion at Epcot is set to open in June.
Frozen Ever After Opening Announced | Epcot
Frozen Ever After will take guests on an adventurous boat tour through the kingdom of Arendelle. Once inside, guests will be transported to the “Winter in Summer” Celebration where Queen Elsa embraces her magical powers and creates a winter-in-summer day for the entire kingdom. Guests will pass Troll Valley on their way up the icy North Mountain to Queen Elsa’s Ice Palace, and later on return to the Bay of Arendelle.
After disembarking, guests can top off their “Frozen” experience by meeting the royal sisters in their new Royal Sommerhus greeting location. Inspired by a Norwegian countryside cabin, Anna and Elsa have opened their summer home for visitors.
To bring this attraction to life, the original voice talent of the original “Frozen” film returned to record new dialogue and songs penned by composers Bobby and Kristen Anderson-Lopez. Walt Disney Imagineers traveled to Norway for architecture and design research, specifically visiting the Detli House in Sverresborg and the Open Air Museum of Cultural History in Trondheim.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Castle Show Coming to Magic Kingdom Summer 2016
Beginning this summer, Mickey Mouse and his friends will welcome favorite characters from some of Disney’s newest classics in “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire.”
Beginning this summer, Mickey Mouse and his friends will welcome favorite characters from some of Disney’s newest classics in “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire.” This all-new live stage show makes its debut in June on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at Magic Kingdom Park,
In the show, Mickey and his troupe of Merry Makers have been preparing to host a joyous festival and have ventured far and wide to invite friends from other lands to join their celebration. From the Land of the Bewitching Bayous, Goofy has invited Tiana, Naveen and Louis to add a little spice of New Orleans jazz to the party. From the Land of the Enchanted Woods, Donald Duck brings some new friends he met at the Snuggly Duckling, and Daisy introduces us to her special guests, Rapunzel and Flynn. Finally, Mickey shares a surprise with Minnie, as he has traveled to the Land of the Mystic Mountains to invite Olaf, Anna and Elsa, who contributes a blast of her icy magic.
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Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Most Elaborate Fireworks in Park History Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios
New Star Wars Attractions Coming to Walt Disney World Summer 2016
There’s a lot of fun in store for Star Wars fans this summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Starting this June, fans won’t want to miss the grand debut of a new Star Wars fireworks show, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.” This new nightly show is the next generation of the current Star Wars-inspired fireworks show. It will combine fireworks, pyrotechnics, special effects and video projections that will turn the nearby Chinese Theater and other buildings into the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, Starkiller Base and other Star Wars destinations.
This new show will be the most elaborate fireworks display to take place in the history of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
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Alien Swirling Saucers Coming to Walt Disney World
Alien Swirling Saucers has been announced for the new Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. This attraction is 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.”
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Sneak Peek: Slinky Dog Dash Video | Hollywood Studios
Slinky Dog Dash will be a family coaster attraction featuring a coaster track that Andy has built all over his backyard using his Mega Coaster Play Kit. Take a look at a concept video of Slinky Dog Dash:
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Invictus Games + Special Disney Resort Offer
The Invictus Games Orlando 2016 will take place May 8-12, 2016 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort. The brainchild of Prince Harry, the Games will feature more than 500 injured military veterans and active duty personnel from 14 countries competing in 10 events. >> View exclusive hotel offers from Magical Vacations Travel.
The Opening Ceremony will include musical performances by James Blunt and Laura Wright, in addition to appearances from Prince Harry and First Lady Michelle Obama, with more names still to be announced. Plus, the Games just announced its two newest celebrity ambassadors – Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough of Dancing with the Stars fame. Both are also expected to attend the Games.
Invictus Games celebrity ambassadors – Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough of Dancing with the Stars fame.
The opening event on May 8 inside Champion Stadium also will include majestic performances inspiring stories of the competitors and additional music acts, all televised live on ESPN2.
To give you an idea of the pageantry of the Opening Ceremony, here’s a peek at two newly-released renderings of the event’s stage.
To give you an idea of the pageantry of the Opening Ceremony, here’s a peek at two newly-released renderings of the event’s stage.
Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel. He is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Must-See Disney Cruise Line Voyages in 2017
Summer 2017 itineraries have been released with ports of call across Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean. Booking begins on April 14, 2016.
Alaska
Coast through hypnotic landscapes during your 5- , 7- or 9-night journey to charming towns, including Skagway and Ketchikan—select cruises include a peek at Hubbard Glacier and a stop at Icy Strait Point.
Northern Europe
Drift across crystal blue waters and explore scenic cities like St. Petersburg, Helsinki and Stockholm. Plus, stroll through the storybook-like streets of Amsterdam during a new 10-night sailing from Copenhagen to Dover.
Norwegian Fjords
Glide past mystical fjords and colorful coastal homes on a 7-night adventure from Copenhagen to 4 Norwegian towns. Or take a 10-night roundtrip from Dover, England, which whisks you to Iceland, Scotland and a pair of captivating Norwegian port cities.
British Isles
Traverse the spectacular Inner and Outer Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland on a 12-night roundtrip adventure out of Dover that travels to ports of call throughout England, France, Germany and Ireland.
Mediterranean
Spice up your summer with a roundtrip cruise from Barcelona. Itineraries ranging from 5 to 10 nights invite you to roam the bustling streets of picturesque cities in Spain, Italy and France. And you can reflect on each one's distinct character as you recharge at sea.
Transatlantic
Delve into the rich history of several port cities—including the newly added Portland, England (Stonehenge) and Amsterdam, Netherlands. There's a bounty of sights for you to discover over the course of your 15-night sailing.
Southern Caribbean
Take rest and relaxation to the next level when you choose a brand new 10- or 11-night itinerary from Port Canaveral that transports you to idyllic islands like Aruba, Barbados and Curacao—each boasting a diverse array of land and sea activities.
Eastern Caribbean
Surround yourself with crystal blue waters, powder-soft beaches and nonstop family fun on a 6- to 7-night cruise leading you to treasured islands like Tortola, St. John's and Castaway Cay.
Western Caribbean
Soak up the natural beauty and vibrant cultures of 3 tropical ports of call—Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica—during a 7-night roundtrip cruise from Port Canaveral that includes a fun stop at Castaway Cay.
Bahamas
Navigate your way to the tropical shores of Nassau and Castaway Cay. Plus, enjoy an extra dose of Disney's private island-a series of 4- and 5-night "double dip" cruises grants you 2 fun-filled stops at this beloved retreat.
Baja
Celebrate something special with a weekend jaunt from San Diego to Ensenada—a captivating city known for its stellar surfing conditions, innovative cuisine and legendary hot springs.
Panama Canal
Savor top-notch amenities aboard a 14-night coast-to-coast cruise that takes you through the world-famous Panama Canal and calls upon 4 blissful port cities in Mexico and Columbia, before you land in San Diego.
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Darren Wittko - Specializes in Disney Destinations with Magical Vacations Travel.