Minions Land Coming to Universal

Universal Orlando Resort shares new details about all the ways to eat, laugh and make mischief in the highly anticipated Minion Land!

Minions Land Opening Summer 2023 at Universal Orlando Resort

Minion Land on Illumination Ave expands upon the wildly popular Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction. Said to debut this summer, this new experience will be fun for guests of all ages. Read on to learn about all the mayhem that awaits!

ILLUMINATION’S VILLAIN-CON MINION BLAST

First, put your villainous skills to the test in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. This new attraction will have guests competing against each other in an interactive gaming experience that’s so much fun, it’s a crime!

ILLUMINATION’S MINION CAFE

Next, Minions in the kitchen = mischief in the dining room. Hungry Guests will find tons of tasty food at the new Illumination’s Minion Cafe. This immersive new eatery offers something for every palate. Additionally, it will feature three themed areas designed after beloved Minions Kevin, Stuart, Bob and Otto:

The Kitchen – where guests will get a glimpse of the equipment and gear the Minions have used to whip up the cafe’s menu.

The Breakroom – where guests can dine in the Minions’ break space. This section includes everything from “Office Safety Tips” to a vending machine stocked with mischievous items.

The Dining Room – a vibrant space adorned with colorful artwork courtesy of the Minions and more. Guests can also enjoy their meal on an outdoor patio that overlooks the fun of Minion Land.

Undoubtedly, Guests will enjoy Minion Cafe’s incredible surroundings, but hungry tummies will also enjoy a delicious menu. Try an eclectic “despica-bowls” such as Otto’s Noodle Bowl. There’s also Agnes’s Honeymoon Soup and Carl’s Crispy Cauliflower (vegan offering). For those who like handhelds maybe the Steak & “Cheese Ray” Sandwich will fit the bill? Of course, “mini Minions” will enjoy their own menu too. Lastly, everyone everyone will fall in love with adorable desserts such as Bob’s Teddy Bear Chocolate Cream Puff.

Alternately, Minion Cafe will also feature an express window with a limited menu. This is perfect for those looking to quickly satisfy their mischievous cravings!

BAKE MY DAY

You won’t miss this venue as it’s topped with a massive pink cupcake. For this reason, it’s visible from anywhere in the land! Bake My Day is a whimsical retail location and bakery featuring a selection of Minion-themed sweet treats. Delectable offerings will include cupcakes, macarons, s’mores and more. Of course, fans can also find exclusive Minion-inspired merchandise here as well.

POP-A-NANA

Banana-flavored popcorn, anyone? Yes please! This walk-up location will feature sweet and savory popcorn inspired by the Minions’ love for bananas. Additionally, guests may also find an assortment of cute popcorn buckets, including the Minion Selfie bucket.

FREEZE RAY POPS

Cool off with a visit to Freeze Ray Pops, showcasing a variety of colorful popsicles and beverages inspired by Gru, the Minions and Vector.

ILLUMINATION THEATER

No land would be complete without a meet and greet. At Illumination Theater you can interact with beloved characters like the Minions, Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes. In fact, new additions from the hit film “Sing” – Rosita, Gunter and Johnny – will debut at this outdoor location as well.

And that’s not all! Guests can also discover murals, photo ops and more throughout Minion Land that celebrate additional characters from popular Illumination films.

Minion Land is yet another example of how Universal Destinations & Experiences is raising the bar on immersive storytelling for the entire family.

In addition to this exciting news, earlier in the year the company announced plans to build a one-of-kind, original theme park for families in Frisco, Texas. Stay tuned for more details to come.

Vacations with Character is proud to earn the distinction of being a Universal U-Preferred Travel Agency.

We can’t wait to experience the all-new, adorable Minion Land! If you would like more information, please reach out to your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista! https://universalvacationplanners.com/

Universal’s Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnival

Universal Orlando Resort’s Mardi Gras 2023 Celebration Returns

Mardi Gras Parade at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to go beyond the bayou and let the good times roll from February 4 through April 16, 2023 with the return of Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval – featuring a dazzling Mardi Gras parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations and, on select nights, live concerts by top names in music – all included with regular theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Click Here to See an Overview of this Year’s Celebration and take a look at all the details below:

Star-Studded Mardi Gras Concert Lineup

This year’s concert series will feature eight live performances by popular names in music like GRAMMY-nominated band Goo Goo Dolls, GRAMMY-winning Platinum superstar Maren Morris and GRAMMY-winning artist Sean Paul, and at the Music Plaza stage – an outdoor concert venue set against the backdrop of the towering Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster.

Complete Concert Line-Up for Universal 2023 Mardi Gras Celebration

New “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” Parade Theme

Guests of all ages can dance along with high-energy performers and catch beads by the handful during this year’s spectacular parade, which will showcase a new “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” theme inspired by fantastical creatures like dragons, phoenixes, unicorns and more – with a Mardi Gras twist. This year’s imaginative theme will be brought to life within six incredibly detailed and festive parade floats that will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats – such as the iconic, two-story Riverboat and nearly 50-foot-long King Gator.

Taste the International Flavors of Carnaval

The mouthwatering flavors of global Carnaval celebrations from New Orleans to Brazil to Belgium and beyond will come to life as part of an expansive menu featuring more than 50 tasting-sized items for guests to enjoy at this year’s event. While venturing throughout the parkwide celebration, guests will find kiosks featuring delectable food and beverage inspired by iconic fare from around the world – including the classic Crawfish Boil and deliciously fluffy Beignets from New Orleans, Shrimp Ceviche Tostada from Mexico, a Mofongo Flight inspired by the Carnaval Ponceño in Puerto Rico, Indonesian Black Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and so much more.

Plus, for the first time ever, Universal Orlando’s other theme parks are joining the fun by featuring a limited selection of Mardi Gras items, including Gumbo, Jambalaya, King Cake and more at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and the Muffuletta Long Board Pizza at Universal’s Volcano Bay.

All-New Mardi Gras Tribute Store and Merchandise

Located within an all-new space in the Hollywood area of Universal Studios Florida, this year’s Mardi Gras Tribute Store invites guests to an international jazz celebration that leads to the traditional alleyways of New Orleans and ultimately into a speakeasy where the Mardi Gras celebration continues. Within the new store, guests can shop a new selection of Mardi Gras merchandise that ranges from apparel to accessories and collectibles such as keychains, pins, themed glasses and even some personalized options – allowing them to take a piece of Florida’s Biggest Party home with them. Guests can also devour tasty treats inspired by this year’s celebration within the new retail location.

The Party Continues at Universal CityWalk and Universal Orlando’s Hotels

Guests can keep the party going at Universal CityWalk with special Mardi Gras festivities at select venues along with food kiosks featuring delicious menu items that offer a taste of the Mediterranean, the Islands and popular Mardi Gras fare. Pat O’Brien’s will host a Mardi Gras After Party on select nights from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. that includes live entertainment and exclusive food and drink offerings; as well as a special Fat Tuesday celebration on February 21 from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. featuring a dueling piano and more. Reservations for the festivities at Pat O’Brien’s can be made by calling 407-224-3663. Plus, the Red Coconut Club will transform for the Mardi Gras season into the Cursed Coconut Club – more details and dates of operation will be shared soon.

The best way to experience Universal’s Mardi Gras is with a stay at one of Universal’s eight incredible hotels. Each hotel will have exclusive Mardi Gras offerings such as Cajun Jambalaya Pasta at Trattoria del Porto in Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, N’awlins Po’ Boy Sliders at Velvet Bar at Hard Rock Hotel, Crawfish Etouffee at Bar 17 Bistro in Universal’s Aventura Hotel and more. Universal Orlando hotel guests can also enjoy exclusive benefits including Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation to the theme parks.

Incredible Offers to Get the Celebration Started

Access to Universal’s Mardi Gras is included with theme park admission. Guests wanting to join the festivities can save 25% on a 5-Day/5-Night Vacation Package to visit Universal Orlando this spring and experience Mardi Gras (blockout dates apply).

Florida Residents can also take advantage of a new offer to partake in the festivities that gives them two days of free admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure with the purchase of a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket (valid for use through June 29, 2023; blockout dates apply).

For more information or to book your adventure, contact your favorite Vacationista today! https://universalvacationplanners.com/

Four Ways to Save on a Walt Disney World Vacation!

Four Ways to Save, Save, Save on Select Walt Disney World Vacations!

Goffy and Pluto holding hands and celebrating.. — @Disney

Want to stay in the magic with a special offer—and join in the fun before the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration ends? There’s so much to love when you stay at a Disney Resort!

Family enjoying their stay at a Walt Disney World Resort. — @Disney

1) Save Up to $400 on a 4-Night, 4-Day Room-and-Ticket Package at Select Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

A most magical stay awaits at a Disney Resort! Save up to $400 on a 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package at select Disney Resort hotels, valid for the following stays:

Save up to $400 at a WDW Resort Details

2) Disney+ Subscribers: Save Up to 20% on Rooms This Holiday Season

Disney+ subscribers can stay in the magic and save up to 20% on rooms at select resorts for stays most nights December 11 through December 25, 2022! Eligible resorts are listed here:

Disney+ Special Offer Details for WDW

3) Disney® Visa® Cardmembers: Save Up to 20% on Rooms at Select Disney Resort Hotels in Early 2023

Disney® Visa® Cardmembers can save up to 20% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels on select nights January 2, 2023 through April 30, 2023 when using a Disney® Visa® Card to book.

Check out ways to save:

Disney Visa Card Savings for 2023 at Walt Disney World

4) Florida Residents: Save Up to 20% on Rooms at Select Disney Resort Hotels in Early 2023

The Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration comes to an end on March 31, 2023 but the savings continue through April for Florida Residents at select Disney Resort hotels.

This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below:

Florida Resident Offer Details for 2023 Stays

Extra Perks for Onsite Guests:

As a Disney Resort hotel Guest, you’ll receive:

Early entry to the theme parks 30 minutes before opening for select attractions.
Early access to purchase individual Lightning Lane entry for up to 2 attractions each day. (Note: this is a paid enhancement of Disney Genie+.)
Disney Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort Guests can experience even more attractions with extended evening theme park hours!

Couple taking a selfie in front of Cinderellas Castle in Magic Kingom — @Disney

Know Before You Go!

Take advantage of these offers and be surrounded by The World’s Most Magical Celebration, a once-in-a-lifetime event brimming with EARidescent excitement—taking place now through March 31, 2023.

Important Details

Length of stay requirements may apply and advanced reservations are required.
Additional per-adult charges will be added if more than 2 adults occupy a room.
This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
These offers excludes: 3-bedroom villas, The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Little Mermaid Standard Rooms.
Theme park tickets are valid for admission beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of stay and ticket.
The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
Proof of Disney+ subscription will be required for this particular offer. Also, Guests must be 18+ to subscribe to Disney+ and the Disney+ subscriber must stay in the room.

Contact your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista for more exciting details or a free quote!

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is Here!

Take a First Look: EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE

Epcot Food and Wine Sign — By Disney Destinations – July 14, 2022

For the next 128 delicious days, guests can sip, savor, shop and repeat across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE! The festival kicked off yesterday and continues through Nov. 19, offering new experiences for foodies and fun-loving
families.

Friends enjoying various drinks at Epcot Food and Wine Festival — By Disney Destinations

A passport for the palate, this iconic festival is a magical taste tour – one that whisks guests off on a fun and flavorful journey. It’s a delicious celebration of the best in global food and drink along with live entertainment, family activities and more. This year, the creative Disney culinarily teams have dreamed up unique dishes as nearly one third of the menu offerings are NEW!

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Passport — Festival Passport by Disney Destinations

Guests can grab a Festival Passport to use as their handy guide to discover all the new sips and fresh bites available at the more than 25 Global Marketplaces throughout the park. These special food and beverage locations celebrate the best in global cuisine.

The Fry Basket by Disney Destinations

Debuting this year is The Fry Basket showcasing French fries presented with unique savory and sweet toppings – like the Fry Flight, featuring three different flavors!

Family enjoying morning treats at Epcot Food and Wine Festival — By Disney Destinations

For those who like to get an early start enjoying the festival and all that EPCOT has to offer, the Belgium marketplace will open at 8:30 a.m. daily to serve up delicious Belgian Waffles topped with either Warm Chocolate Ganache or Berry Compote and Whipped Cream, as well as Chilled Mocha Coffee.

Various Booths at Epcot Food and Wine — By Disney Destinations

All other marketplaces – including The Swanky Saucy Swine, Coastal Eats, Hops & Barley, The Alps, Germany, Spain, Canada, Australia, Greece, Brazil and Flavors from Fire to name just a few – will open at 11:00am daily to entice guests with exciting new options and returning fan-favorites. Be sure to check out the full Festival Foodie Guide for photos of many delectable offerings.

Don’t miss the Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare as well! Be sure to check out this incredible list of performances and make plans for which guests want to see. And don’t forget about Eat to the Beat Dining Packages (for Friday through Monday concerts), which include a leisurely meal at a select EPCOT restaurant and guaranteed seating at a performance later that same day. To see the full lineup of artists, performance dates and pricing, and to make a dining package reservation, visit TasteEpcot.com.

New Merchandise for Epcot Food and Wine Festival — By Disney Destinations

It’s time to sip, savor…and shop! Five new merchandise collections offer up fun and whimsical kitchenware, tabletop items, apparel, novelties and unique collectibles featuring favorite Disney characters such as Chef Minnie Mouse, Chef Mickey Mouse, Princess Tiana, Chef Figment and Chef Remy. Merchandise can be found at festival retail locations across EPCOT, with additional pieces debuting throughout the festival. Select items are also available on shopDisney.com.

Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Savenger Hunt and Sweet Treat — By Disney Destinations

But that’s not all! There are other ways to have even more fun exploring the festival. Cheese lovers will love Emile’s Fromage Montage and take a walk on the tasty side to sample dishes featuring cheese served in inventive ways.

Guests of all ages can enjoy Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure where they’ll join Chef Remy on a daring culinary journey and zip, dash and scurry through Gusteau’s bustling Paris restaurant. And kids will want to embark on a Ratatouille-inspired scavenger hunt that’s très magnifique in Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak as well.

At the end of the day, Guests will want add to the magical memories made by watching “Harmonious” – one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney Park.

To experience the 2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, contact your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista for all the details!

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Disney Cruise Line Latest Updates

Disney Cruise Line Introduces Pixar Day at Sea and Announces Return of Marvel Day at Sea in 2023!

Toy Story, Incredibles, Finding Nemo, and Inside Out Friends to Join DCL in 2023 on Select Sailings.

Disney Cruise Line Guests will be immersed in the ever-unfolding stories of their favorite toys, monsters and heroes during the all-new Pixar Day at Sea aboard the Disney Fantasy and Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Dream for select sailings in early 2023.

Visit our website for more information on Disney Cruise Line including special offers!

On Disney Fantasy, this day-long celebration featuring one-of-a-kind experiences on select seven-night voyages will bring to life the beloved Pixar tales of “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo” and more exclusively for Disney Cruise Line Guests. Other details and highlights include:

Character Encounters

From morning until night, Guests will dance, play and interact with their favorite Pixar pals, including Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Bo Peep from “Toy Story”; Mike, Sulley and Boo from “Monsters, Inc.”; Joy and Sadness from “Inside Out”; Dug and Russell from “Up”; and everyone’s favorite supers – Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone from “The Incredibles.”

Immersive Entertainment

A new nighttime spectacular will call upon Disney Cruise Line Guests to help the Incredibles save the day.
A first-of-its-kind theatrical experience will bring to life the beloved story of Miguel and his family from “Coco” through live music and puppetry.
Families will be able to join their favorite characters from the beloved Pixar films for a dance party bash.

Dining Filled with Character

A new, interactive character dining experience hosted by Sheriff Woody, Jesse and Bullseye will kick-start the day with sing-a-longs, cowboy serenades and all the country breakfast fixins.
Families will enjoy a Pixar-themed dinner with dishes inspired by the Pixar Animation Studios’ California locale.
Guests will immerse themselves in undersea magic while dining in Animator’s Palate with visits from some of their favorite “Finding Nemo” friends, including interactive conversations with Crush.

Pixar Day at Sea will be included on nine select Disney Fantasy cruises from January through March 2023. Departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, the Disney Fantasy will sail to several Guest-favorite destinations in the eastern and western Caribbean. Eastern Caribbean itineraries feature stops in ports such as Tortola, St. Thomas and San Juan, Puerto Rico, while western Caribbean sailings visit Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman; and Falmouth, Jamaica. Every cruise includes a visit to Disney’s private island oasis, Castaway Cay.

Join Thor, Captain America, Spider Man and more on Disney Dream in 2023 for Marvel Day at Sea select sailings!

Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Dream is not only returning next year, but for the first time ever, the largest assembly of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains on one ship will be sailing epic voyages from Miami, now on the Disney Dream!

Marvel Day at Sea combines the thrills of renowned Marvel comics, films and animated series with the excitement of a Disney cruise during an unforgettable day at sea.

Immersive Entertainment

This day-long celebration on select five-night Caribbean cruises features encounters with some of Guests’ favorite Marvel Super Heroes, action-packed entertainment and Marvel-themed activities designed for the whole family to enjoy.

Along with visiting fan-favorite destinations in the Western Caribbean like Cozumel, Mexico, Grand Cayman and Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, Guests will be able to experience all that the Disney Dream has to offer while on a Marvel Day at Sea sailing. Broadway-style shows like Beauty and the Beast, themed dining, activities for every member of the family and Disney’s classic service and attention to detail are just a few things that await Guests on board.

We can’t wait to help you create a vacation filled with character! Contact your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista for all the details and a free quote today: www.vacationswithcharacter.net.

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Live Entertainment Returning to Disney World!

Several major live entertainment experiences will be returning to Walt Disney World Resort during The World’s Most Magical Celebration, some with new additions and enhancements!

Just announced as part of the Destination D23 event, several major live entertainment experiences will be returning to Walt Disney World Resort during The World’s Most Magical Celebration, and some of them are coming back with new additions and enhancements!

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, we’re thrilled to share some additional details about this newly updated show, which is being called “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” The new show is set in the timeline of the movie “Finding Dory.” We’re told the team is hard at work getting “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” ready to open in 2022, and we look forward to sharing more soon.

As Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, announced earlier today, “Fantasmic!” will also be returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2022. When this incredible spectacular reopens next year, it will incorporate an all-new sequence featuring live performers, stunts, special effects and more!

At Magic Kingdom Park, live entertainment is returning to the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage early next year, with a show newly enhanced for the 50^th Anniversary celebration. “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire” will incorporate favorite scenes from the previous version of the show – with sequences inspired by “Frozen,” “Tangled,” and “The Princess and the Frog” – plus a new opening and a new finale with Mickey Mouse and all his friends in their sparkling, EARidescent fashions. The show will also include an all-new, original song entitled “Where the Magic Feels Like Home.” “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire” will be a wonderful addition to the live entertainment lineup for the 50^th Anniversary celebration.

Photo: Courtesy of Vacations with Character®

Since parks reopened last year, Disney has been presenting favorite characters in new ways, such as the cavalcades that travel the parade route at Magic Kingdom Park. These cavalcades have been very popular and will continue to be part of the park entertainment experience into the future. Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade debuted Oct. 1 as part of the 50^th anniversary, and later this winter, a new one will be introduced, the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade, with an exciting lineup of characters all embarking on a great journey through the park. The Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade will feature the most characters of any cavalcade to date, including Nick and Judy from “Zootopia,” Baloo and King Louie from “The Jungle Book,” José Carioca and Panchito from “The Three Caballeros,” Miguel from “Coco,” plus Merida, Moana, The Incredibles, and so many more!

And best of all, in early 2022, these cavalcades will be joined by the return of the Disney “Festival of Fantasy” Parade. This vibrant and joyous celebration of Fantasyland brings to the streets of Magic Kingdom Park dozens of beloved Disney characters and stories, from the Disney Princess Garden to a carnival of color presided over by none other than Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

All of this (and more!) is on the way, adding to new experiences that debuted with the launch of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration, including “Disney KiteTails,” “Harmonious,” and “Disney Enchantment,” as well as other returning favorites like “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular.”

Stay tuned for more news coming soon. We can’t wait to help you create a magical vacation to all that fun! Contact your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista if you are interested in booking a vacation package and tickets at www.vacationswithcharacter.net.

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

First Voyages on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Open Soon

First Voyages on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Begin March 1, 2022; General Bookings Open Oct. 28, 2021!

Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser by Disney Destinations September 30, 2021

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is a first-of-its-kind vacation experience that goes beyond anything Disney has created before. Guests will become the hero of their own Star Wars story during this two-night adventure, traveling the galaxy in style aboard the Halcyon starcruiser and eventually making their way to the Outer Rim for a planetside excursion to Batuu. Guests choose how to make their way in the galaxy – maybe as a member of the Resistance, or by learning the ancient ways of the Jedi lightsaber. Maybe Guests prefer loyalty to the First Order or the excitement of living life like a smuggler? The decisions are up to them.

Disney Imagineer Ann Morrow Johnson provides a first look at the Starcruiser’s bridge as part of this special announcement. Courtesy: Disney Destinations Travel News

Disney Imagineers sat down for an in-depth discussion about Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser in this video, sharing all sorts of new details about the experience, including the characters you may meet, the food you may eat and much more.

The first commercial for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser gives you a first glimpse at what life on the ship may be like.

And there are all sorts of juicy details in the promotional poster for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser:

So, how you book a trip on the Starcruiser? Stay tuned and pack some patience. Some Disney and Star Wars fans – including Club 33 members, Golden Oak residents, Disney Vacation Club Members, Disney Passholders and Disney Visa Cardmembers – will receive communication about special booking opportunities just for them first. And we’ll keep you posted as to when bookings open up for all other Guests!

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Disney Genie+ to Replace FastPass at Disney Theme Parks

Disney Genie Service is set to Reimagine the Guest Experience at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort!

Disney Genie by Disney Destinations Travel News

Goodbye FastPass+… Hello Disney Genie! Earlier today, Disney Parks announced more details about what promises to be an amazing new tool to help increase guest experiences and make the most of precious time in the theme parks. This new three-tiered approach will be know as Disney Genie and will be coming this Fall. Here are some details:

Disney Genie, Courtesy of Disney Travel News

* Disney Genie is a complimentary service that will be available to all guests through the free My Disney Experience and Disneyland Apps. It will allow guests to select favorite attractions and experiences, including restaurants, then sit back and relax while ‘Genie’ conjures up the ultimate itinerary for fun-filled day. If plans change, no worries! The App also allows for changes on the fly as well!

It will also include tip boards based on guests favorites they’ve selected, show future wait time forecasts, offer a virtual assistant, mobile ordering and the ability to join a mobile walk-up waitlist for restaurants as well!

Again, Disney Genie is free for all guests.

* Disney Genie+ is similar to the old FastPass+ system that was discontinued, however, it will now be a paid enhancement that will allow guests to to choose return times (for 1 select ride at a time) for any of the included attractions throughout the day. Once Guests tap in for their arrival, they can make another selection and this service can be used in all four parks with a park hopper ticket as well.

The attractions included in DisneyGenie+ have not been officially announced, but we’ve heard they will be available for more than 15 attractions at Disneyland Resort, and over 40 attractions at Disney World and attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and Haunted Mansion should be included.

Disney Genie+ also includes special audio experiences and a special photo lense overlay experience for guests of Walt Disney World, while guests of Disneyland guests will receive the audio experiences as well as unlimited photo downloads from their day at Disneyland plus the special photo lense overlay experiences. (Walt Disney World guests would still need to purchase Memory Maker if they would like to enjoy unlimited photo downloads, magic shots, super zoom shots, and more. )

The additional cost for Disney Genie+ is $15.00 per ticket/per day at Walt Disney World and $20.00 per ticket/per day at Disneyland.

* Lightening Lane is also a new paid enhancement that will allow guests to skip the standby line at some of the most popular attractions and the attractions offered through this individual purchase option will be different than those offered through Disney Genie+. Rides to be included in this individual attraction selection option may include: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom, Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure Park, Rise of the Resistance in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Web Slingers in Disney California Adventure park, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in EPCOT. Disney will release the rest of the attractions in this group later this year.

Guests will be able to schedule a time to ride up to 2 high-demand attractions each day and use the Lightning Lane entrance during their scheduled time to ride. These two attractions can be at different parks if you have a park hopper ticket. $ Pricing for this Individual Attraction Purchase option will vary by date, attraction, and park.

Individual Attraction Purchases can be made on the same day of your visit and used across multiple parks.

ADDITIONAL TIPS:

1. The use of Disney Genie is not needed to experience any attraction or experience at any Disney theme park. All Guests may use this service as much or as little as they wish or not at all. Standby lines will still be available as usual as well as Disney’s virtual queue experience for select attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

2. The purchase of Disney Genie+ is not needed to use the Individual Attraction Selection Service (Lightening Lane). For example, if you ONLY wish to ride Rise of the Resistance and you don’t care about anything else, you DO NOT need to purchase Disney Genie+ to ride it. You only have to pay the individual cost for the purchase of that attraction.

3. ONSITE GUEST PERK ALERT! Guests staying at a Disney owned and operated hotel at Walt Disney World, or the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, or the Shades of Green Hotels, and who purchase an enhancement will be able to make their first individual attraction selection at 7AM. All other guests will have to make their selections when they enter their first park of the day.

Here’s a great little video that explains it all perfectly!

Follow us on Facebook for news and updates as they occur on this and all things Disney! And if you’d like more information or a free, no-obligation quote proposal, please reach out to your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista or request a quote on our website at: https://vacationswithcharacter.net

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

New Cirque du Soleil Show Opening at Disney Springs!

The Show Goes On! Cirque du Soleil & Disney Announce Opening Date for Drawn to Life at Disney Springs!

Drawn to Life By: Disney Destinations Travel News

Calling all Cirque du Soleil fans! The iconic white tent theater at Disney Springs that has been sitting empty since is buzzing with activity once again as Cirque du Soleil artists are returning to the stage to train and rehearse for a spectacular new show.

Drawn to Life is a thrilling collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering. At its core, the show is about the love between a father and a daughter with a story drawing inspiration from Disney’s 100-year heritage of animation. The family-friendly show brings timeless Disney stories and characters to life in an unforgettable way through the use of innovative design, acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography, musical scores, brand-new animation lovingly created by Disney Animation artists, and some extra touches of Disney magic. Here’s a sneak Peek:

Originally scheduled to debut in spring 2020, Drawn to Life was in its final rehearsals when the pandemic brought live theater performances to a halt. While waiting to return to the stage, artists stayed in shape by training at home or at local facilities. Now, the intermission is over and being back in the theater together is a dream come true for the cast and crew — and soon to be for fans alike!

Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil & Disney is scheduled to open on Nov. 18, 2021. Tickets will go on sale Aug. 20 to the general public.

For more information about Drawn to Life, visit DisneySprings.com/Cirque. And be sure to keep an an eye out for some behind-the-scenes stories coming in the weeks ahead on our Facebook page as well: https://www.facebook.com/VacationsWithCharacter.

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Christmastime Parade, Fireworks Coming to Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, Fireworks and More Coming to Disney Very Merriest After Hours at Magic Kingdom!

Twinkling lights, festive décor, and magical celebrations will fill Magic Kingdom Park when “Disney Very Merriest After Hours” begins. The event will take place on 24 select nights Nov. 8 through Dec. 21 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. This year’s holiday celebration coincides with the Walt Disney World 50^th anniversary – “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”

Event dates are as follows:

November: 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 28, 30

December: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21

We are so excited to let you know that “Disney Very Merriest After Hours” will include the nighttime spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the special holiday-themed parade “Once Upon a Christmastime Parade”. That’s right, a parade! Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be joined by pals from Disney’s “Frozen” and many other favorite Disney characters including the very popular Toy Soldiers. This festive parade will, of course, also feature Santa Claus.

Tickets for the festive 4-hour “Disney Very Merriest After Hours” will grant admission to Magic Kingdom Park as early as 7 p.m., giving Guests more time to enjoy some of their favorite Magic Kingdom attractions. They can also take in some of the EARidescent magic that will be part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” from the brand-new fireworks spectacular “Disney Enchantment” to the transformation of Cinderella Castle into a “Beacon of Magic,” all in honor of the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort. And, yes! That means Guests could be able to experience two different and unique fireworks shows in one night!

That’s not all that it’s in store. Here are additional details of what Guests can experience during this limited-capacity, separately ticketed event:

Holiday attraction overlays are also making a comeback! The Jungle Cruise transforms into the Jingle Cruise, and Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor will get new jokes perfect for this joyful season.
After the park closes to day Guests, event Guests can enjoy less time waiting in line for more than 20 attractions including favorites like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, The Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Peter Pan’s Flight, Space Mountain and more.
Sightings of Disney characters throughout the park all dressed in their holiday best.
While Guests are walking down Main Street, U.S.A. they should be sure to look up to the sky, they might catch some magical snowfall!
Guests can dance and boogie the night away at themed Club Tinsel dance party in Tomorrowland.
Guests can enjoy complimentary snacks like ice cream novelties and popcorn, seasonal treats and select bottled beverages.
Specialty holiday food and drinks will be also be available for purchase.
Disney PhotoPass will offer holiday magic shots throughout the night.

Tickets will go on sale Aug. 20, 2021 and range from $169 to $229 plus tax for select November/December nights, and $249, plus tax on December 19 & 21. These dated event tickets do not require an additional day theme park ticket or Disney Park Pass theme park reservation.

NOTE: In order to book tickets during the early purchase window, a valid reservation at a Disney Resort hotel is required!

Please check our Know Before You Go page for the most up-to-date information regarding our health and safety measures.

Stay tuned for more holiday news coming soon. We can’t wait to help you unwrap all that festive fun! Contact your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista if you are interested in booking a vacation package and tickets at www.vacationswithcharacter.net.

Vacations with Character® has earned the distinction of being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner