Disney After Hours Events Return for Spring 2018
Cinderella Castle | Magic Kingdom Park
Magic Kingdom Park is once again hosting Disney After Hours events on select nights through March. Available to a limited number of Guests, Disney After Hours allows participants to maximize their time in the park with quicker access to over 25 popular attractions and character greetings. Remaining event dates include Jan. 26, 30, Feb. 8, 15, March 1 and 8, 2018.
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Video: Hall of President Reopens with President Trump
Donald Trump Audio-Animatronic figure at Hall of Presidents - Walt Disney World Resort.
As with every new president since Hall of Presidents opened at Walt Disney World Resort, an Audio-Animatronics figure of President Donald J. Trump has been added to the show. According to Walt Disney Imagineering, it features the latest advances in technology that enable smoother and more lifelike movements.
President Trump personally recorded remarks exclusively for The Hall of Presidents, just as each sitting president has done for the attraction since the early 1990s.
The likeness of the animatronic figure appears to be a little "off" from the presidents that were sculpted in the past. On social media, people are saying the figure looks more like Jon Voight but you be the judge.
New Coaster for Magic Kingdom Park
Disney announced that a new Tron attraction will sit in an entirely new area right next to the Space Mountain attraction at Magic Kingdom Park.
The TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders will 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.
The Tron attraction will open in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary in 2021.
A coaster-style attraction based on Tron is in the works for Magic Kingdom Park.
By Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Destinations
President Trump Will Star in The Hall of Presidents
President Trump to have a speaking role in the new Hall of Presidents opening late 2017.
Since the Magic Kingdom Park opened in 1971, The Hall of Presidents has brought together a one-of-a-kind look at the office of the President of the United States through film and the magic of Disney’s Audio-Animatronics technology. Despite some media reports to the contrary, President Trump will have a speaking role in The Hall of Presidents, like every president since 1993. Disney has been working closely with the current White House — just as they have with previous administrations — and the president’s recording session has been scheduled. The attraction will re-open in late 2017.
The Hall of Presidents is getting a new show, and a complete theater upgrade including a new sound system, lighting and high-definition projection system. The multi-screen viewing experience you may have seen in prior versions of the attraction is returning with an even wider vantage point of our country’s history.
Pirates of the Caribbean Gets PhotoPass
Beginning June 19, 2017 at Pirates of the Caribbean in Magic Kingdom Park, Disney PhotoPass Service will be available for on-ride photos. Your photo will be automatically associated to your account, where it can be viewed at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com and in the My Disney Experience mobile app alongside all of your vacation memories from Disney PhotoPass Service.
by Darren Wittko, Specializing in Disney Parks and Resorts
A New Way to View Magic Kingdom Fireworks
Celebration at the Top, a new dining event coming to California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort, allows you enjoy the Magic Kingdom Park fireworks from an intimate and private observation deck.
Celebration at the Top Guests can check in at California Grill an hour before fireworks. After being whisked up to the California Grill, which sits on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you'll be taken to a banquet room to enjoy a selection of sushi rolled by the expert California Grill sushi chefs, a selection of flatbreads and other small plates. A complimentary bar offering craft beers, California wines, cordials and coffee will also be available.
Just before the fireworks begin, you will be lead to a private observation deck on the roof of the Contemporary Resort, which offers stunning views of Magic Kingdom Park and the fireworks. After you can return to the private room for dessert including decadent chocolate confections and fruit tarts.
Reservations for Celebration at the Top are now open for select Sunday evenings from Feb. 26-April 16, 2017. Cost is $99 per person, plus tax and gratuity.
See What's Coming to Magic Kingdom on May 12, 2017
“Happily Ever After,” a new nighttime spectacular that will combine the magic of Disney storytelling, beloved Disney characters, fireworks and so much more, will debut at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort on May 12, 2017.
The Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace will continue to be offered during “Happily Ever After.”
The spectacular will inspire you to seek out and find your own “Happily Ever After” by showcasing some of the greatest adventures Disney characters have taken to achieve their dreams. The show will feature the latest fireworks and pyrotechnics and original animation, plus a heart-tugging original score. And thanks to the inclusion of state-of-the-art projection mapping technology, more Disney characters than ever before will be featured in the show, including moments from “Moana,” “Brave,” “Big Hero 6,” “Zootopia,” “The Princess & The Frog,” “Aladdin” and many others.
VIDEO:
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
This Tour Celebrates Magic Kingdom Classics
Recently I had an opportunity to take the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour, a brand new tour at Magic Kingdom Park designed to highlight the classic attractions You may also want to read my article at The Best of Walt Disney World on Magic Kingdom Classics.
My four hour tour was led by an extensively trained and courteous Disney VIP Tour Guide. These are the ones you see in the plaid uniforms escorting guests and celebrities through the parks. Of course they know how to navigating the park but the focus here is to show you the attractions that we all think about when we think of Magic Kingdom.
During the Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour, we were able to experience 10 of the most beloved Magic Kingdom Park attractions, including everything from Pirates of the Caribbean and the Jungle Cruise, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “it’s a small world,” Peter Pan’s Flight, and a few more attractions throughout the park. We also saw Under the Sea Voyage - which in my opinion is not quite a "classic" when compared to oldies but goodies like Carousel of Progress and Haunted Mansion.
Plus, no Magic Kingdom Park tour would be complete without saying hello to the mouse that started it all. As part of my tour, I also got to meet Mickey Mouse at the Town Square Theater!
This tour is especially great for kids. You can ask your tour guide to avoid the attractions that have height restrictions.
The Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour ($199 plus tax)* is offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and is subject to availability.
Related:
New Experience Offers Backstage Access at Disney World
This Limited TIme Magic Kingdom Experience Offers VIP Treatment
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
Say Goodbye to This Magic Kingdom Show
Beginning Jan. 9, 2017 you will now be allowed to enter the Main Street, U.S.A. even earlier than the park’s scheduled opening time. The Main Street Bakery featuring Starbucks will be serving guests during this time.
A new welcome show will officially open the park for the day on the Castle Forecourt Stage. A Royal Herald will appear to deliver a proclamation and welcome a few familiar characters to the stage, officially opening the park.
I'm sorry to see the current opening go away. It's a true magical moment when the locomotive blasts the whistle and rolls in with all the characters on board. But I'm sure this new show will be a great way to open the park too.
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 Details on Magic Kingdom After Hours 2017!
Magic Kingdom After Hours Returns for 2017
Disney After Hours events are limited to a small number of Guests, allowing you experience 25 attractions with little to no wait. Some attractions include Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, Space Mountain (my personal favorite) and many more. The cost is $126.74 (tax included) per person. There is no child rate.
The Disney After Hours ticket allows park entry as early as 7 p.m., which gives you time to enjoy “Wishes” fireworks, and then remain in the park for three hours past the park’s scheduled closing time. In addition, ice cream novelties and select beverages are included in admission.
Disney After Hours event nights are currently set for Jan. 20 and 27, February 2, 9 and 16, and March 2 and 9, 2017. (Please note that Disney After Hours does not replace Extra Magic Hours (EMH) for Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Guests and are instead held on non-EMH dates).
VIDEO: Disney After Hours returns in early- 2017 to Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort.
To book, visit the Walt Disney World website or contact Darren at Magic Vacations Travel.
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
This Limited Time Magic Kingdom Experience Offers VIP Treatment
For a limited time, you have a new VIP experience option at the Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
Located in Tomorrowland, the new exclusive Kingdom Cabanas provide a unique opportunity to gather, connect, rest and refuel from a day of Theme Park touring. According to Disney, each one of these private cabanas includes in-Park Wi-Fi (although you will get that for free anyway), cell phone charging stations, locked storage to stow souvenirs, as well as light snacks and beverages throughout the day - all for one price. The cost is $691 for the day. Kingdom Cabanas accommodate up to 8 people. Rental period begins when the park opens and concludes at park close.
Light snacks are offered throughout the day but if you're looking for a meal, a Cast Member will be on hand to pick up and deliver food from select Quick-Service locations at Magic Kingdom such as Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe.
Call 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529) for pricing and availability
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 Princess Meet and Greet for Magic Kingdom
Meet Princess Elena of Avalor at Magic Kingdom Park Beginning November 24, 2016.
Beginning Nov. 24, 2016 Princess Elena of Avalor will begin to greet Guests alongside other royal friends at Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. At Princess Fairytale Hall, you can choose between a meeting with Elena and Cinderella or a visit with Rapunzel and Tiana. FastPass+ reservations for dates that include Elena appearances will become available today, Oct. 14, 2016
Darren Wittko is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Stage Show Planned for Magic Kingdom
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Coming in 2016 to Magic Kingdom Park.
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration, will make its debut for the 2016 holiday season. In this brand new stage show, Mickey and his pals invite some of their friends for an unforgettable Christmas party filled with music, dancing, color and fun. Woody and Jessie from “Toy Story,” Fantasyland friends such as Peter Pan and Snow White and many more will join the show. Presented on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage, Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration features special effects, magical projections and festive holiday music.
Exclusive Offers for the 2016 Holiday Season
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Event Nights 2016
November – 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 27 and 29
December – 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 22
Darren Wittko is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Show Coming to Magic Kingdom
Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and The Great Gonzo arrive at Magic Kingdom Park on October 2, 2016 for the opening of their all-new, live show “The Muppets Present… Great Moments in American History.” Hosted by James “J.J.” Jefferson, town crier of Liberty Square, and Sam Eagle. This wacky new show is set to take place several times daily, just outside The Hall of Presidents. Throughout the day, J.J. and the Muppets share their own unique take on the founding fathers as they recount the tale of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, complete with an original song and plenty of humor.
Darren Wittko - is rated a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
New Fall Finale for Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire at Magic Kingdom
New Fall Finale for Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire at Magic Kingdom
Beginning Sept. 2, 2016 at Walt Disney World Resort, the finale scene in “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” will feature new costumes, décor and choreography. You'll also hear an original song celebrating autumn, from the songwriting duo of Valerie Vigoda and Brendan Milburn who composed the show’s catchy tune “On This Day.”
Darren Wittko - is rated aBest of the Best Disney Travel Agent by readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
Disney To Pull Plug On Main Street Electrical Parade
The Main Street Electrical Parade's farewell show will be Oct. 9, 2016.
The Main Street Electrical Parade, will take its farewell trip through Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort on Oct. 9, 2016. After its last run The Main Street Electrical Parade, will next travel cross-country to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, where it originally premiered in 1972.
The Main Street Electrical Parade at Walt Disney World Resort will not appear during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party nights. Parade dates and times are available on the My Disney Experience app.
What would you like to see replace this parade?
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
New Magic Kingdom Dining Package Available. Is it worth it?
Is this Magic Kingdom Dinner Package Worth it?
Now you can take a mid-day break as you indulge in a three-course lunch, including your choice of appetizer, entrée, dessert and a beverage. Choose from favorites like Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti with meatballs or Margherita Pizza. And for dessert, there’s the classic Tiramisú or a decadent chocolate cake layered with a chocolate-hazelnut filling.
During the meal, you'll receive a voucher for reserved viewing of the Main Street Electrical Parade later that evening.
The cost is $45 for adults, $17 for children plus tax and gratuity. It is one table-service entitlement on the Disney Dining Plan.
Is this a good deal?
Tony's Town Square restaurant is comparable to your local Olive Garden Restaurant (only not as good). Still, it's a popular restaurant with guests and it does book up quickly.
So, is $45 for the dinner package worth it? Yes it is! Here's a sample order for one adult:
Caesar Salad appetizer $10.00
Chicken Parm entrée $26
Tiramisu dessert $8.00
Soft drink $3.50
Total Spent: $47.50 (Dinner Package $45 - Savings $2.50 + Parade Voucher)
The Dinner Package is appropriately priced at $45 because that's what most people would spend anyway, but you're also getting a voucher for a reserved section to view the Main Street Electrical Parade. It doesn't appear that Disney is charging a premium for the package. So get this one booked, especially if you're on the Disney Dining Plan, the extra perk definitely adds some value.
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 FastPass Available Today - What You Need to Know
Today (May 21, 2016) FastPass+ becomes available for the new Frozen Ever After attraction at Epcot. Frozen Ever After will officially open on June 21, 2016 at 9 A.M.
I shared with you earlier this week that FastPass selections will now open at 7am. Eastern Time each day. Previously guests could make selections at midnight ET, or 3am PT if you lived on the west coast. This is more convenient I think - it give the advantage to the early birds (like me) not the night owls.
Related:
Sneak Peek: Frozen Ever After Attraction at Epcot
Epcot's Frozen attraction takes you up the North Mountain
More Details on the Opening of Frozen Ever After
Finally, Frozen Characters Come to Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
Where to Find the Frozen Characters at Walt Disney World
Frozen Ever After - Epcot
Of course this big news is that Frozen Ever After boat ride is opening June 21, 2016. Fastpasses are now available! Disney promises you'll be singing "Let it Go" long after you exit the attraction. Remind you of another Disney boat ride with a catchy tune?
MORE PLACES TO MEET ANNA, ELSA, Olaf and Christoff
ROYAL SOMMERHUS OPENING
The royal sisters will be available for greeting opportunities at the new Royal Sommerhus located next to the Frozen Ever After Attraction inside Epcot.
FESTIVAL OF FANTASY PARADE
You can also spot Anna and Elsa over at Magic Kingdom Park in the “Festival of Fantasy Parade” each day at 3pm.
NEW CASTLE STAGE SHOW - MICKEY'S ROYAL FRIENDSHIP FAIRE
And the new “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” show coming to Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at the Magic Kingdom. Check the My Disney Experience app for the latest locations and times for any Disney Character.
Olaf and christoff at DISNEY'S BLIZZARD BEACH WATER PARK
This summer, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park at the Walt Disney World Resort will play host to the inaugural Frozen Games where you can meet Christoff and Olaf from Frozen.
Frozen sing-a-long Celebration
Join your Frozen friends—like Anna, Elsa and the newly-appointed royal historians of Arendelle—for a sing-a-long stage show at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
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
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