Character Meet and Greets | Vacations with Character® Blog

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

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

Where to Eat Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day as they say! Read on for some delicious ways to start your vacation days at Universal Orlando Resort:

Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Today Cafe in Universal Studios serves up the perfect cup of coffee, fresh pastries or healthier options like delicious breakfast sandwiches or an acai bowl.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando - Leaky Cauldron — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Leaky Cauldron in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Diagon Alley, features a hot breakfast with authentic British fare from traditional breakfast items to an egg, leak and mushroom pasty. TIP: We recommend this as a “go-to” for guests who have Early Park Admission access.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando - Three Broomsticks — Photo: Denielle Ricci. Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade is a fan favorite! Here you can enjoy a a plate of pancakes with pumpkin juice!

Breakfast at Universal Orlando - Green Eggs and Ham Cafe — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Make ‘Sam I Am’ proud and pick up a plate of green eggs and ham tots over at Green Eggs and Ham Cafe in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure (don’t try to say that with your a mouthful!) Other quick bites include Croissant Moon, Cinnabon, and Starbucks.

Breakfast at Universl Orlando - Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club at Volcano Bay Water Park — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

You’ll need to to fuel your body when conquering Volcano Bay and we know just the place! Fill up on breakfast pizza, sandwiches and wraps at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club. You can even enjoy a refreshing continental breakfast with fresh pastries and fruits as well.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resorts - Pier 8 Market @ Dockside Inn and Suites — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Looking for breakfast at your resort? There are plenty of options like Pier 8 Market in Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites. Wake up with a refreshing glass of orange juice and enjoy offerings such as chicken and waffles or even vegan avocado toast! There’s also a Starbucks.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort - Beach Break Cafe - Surfside Inn and Suites — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Beach Break Cafe at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites, offers hearty breakfast items that get you ready for a day in the parks. From breakfast pizzas, burritos, egg muffins, or even a crispy chicken sandwich your pallet and your tummy will be pleased. There’s also a Starbucks here as well.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort - Urban Pantry - Aventura Hotel — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Over at Universal’s Aventura Hotel, Urban Pantry serves up quite the selection with their Hash Station in Urban Pantry. Choose from a bowl or wrap with your choice of protein, eggs, cheese, and fresh ingredients. You can also request traditional breakfast favorites as well.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort - Bayliner Diner - Cabana Bay Beach Resort — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Bayliner Diner at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort has it going on with a perfect mix of quick picks and breakfast platters. Starbucks is also served here too.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort - Amatista Cookhouse - Loews Sapphire falls Resort — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Amatista Cookhouse in Loews Sapphire Falls Resort does not disappoint! Order off the menu and find Carribean inspired dishes along with traditional offerings. In a hurry? Grab and Go from New Dutch Trading Co.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort - Islands Dining Room - Loews Royal Pacific Resort — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Ahhhh….you can get a taste of the island life in Islands Dining Room at Loews Royal Pacific Resort! Savor Hawaiian pancakes, Tahitian French Toast a L’orange, smoked salmon, and more! Tuk Tuk Market is also a great place to pick up more than just Grab and Go items and they serve a limited selection of Starbucks offerings as well.

Breaktfast at Universal Orlando Resort - The Kitchen - Hard Rock Hotel Orlando — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Two Words: The Kitchen! This place has some of the best french toast and waffles around as well as a lot of other great offerings. In a hurry? Grab a breakfast sandwich, fresh fruit, or a bagel from Emack and Bollio’s Marketplace!

Breakfast at Tratoria del Porto - Loews Portofino Bay Hotel — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Take me away to Portofino Bay! Enjoy a beautiful morning on the piazza at Trattoria del Porto at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. Here you’ll find breakfast menu items your whole family will love. For some quick bites try Gelateria or Starbucks.

Breakfast at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen - CityWalk — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Did you know Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen serves up breakfast? It’s a best-kept secret! From hearty options to sweet and creamy, they have it all.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando with Grinch and Friends (seasonal) — Photo: Denielle Ricci, Universal Parks and Resorts, Travel Agent Partner Community

Treat yourself to a fun morning with some of your most favorite characters while enjoying a delicious breakfast with The Grinch and Friends. This seasonal event is a dining experience that’s not to be missed! Note: Reservations are required. This event may be postponed until next year due to Covid-19. Stay tuned to our Facebook page for updates!

In closing, we always suggest checking the Universal Parks App for times and availability as everything is subject to change.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our tour and can’t wait to help you learn more about about booking a getaway to Universal Orlando. Simply visit your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista at: https://universalvacationplanners.com. We have a few special offers to share with you and are experts at creating exciting adventures to this amazing destination!

Walt Disney World Holiday Magic Starts November 6

We are super excited to share an update on some of the festive experiences coming to Walt Disney World Resort for the holidays!

We know how much Guests love the holidays, and from Nov. 6-Dec. 30, you’ll will be able to enjoy festive décor, themed merchandise, seasonal food & beverage offerings and entertainment all across Walt Disney World Resort. Holiday magic will be in full force at the four theme parks and Disney Springs, and Santa Claus will even make time for special pop-up appearances at each location, waving and exclaiming holiday wishes to all.

Enjoy the sight of festive flotillas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, holiday promenades at EPCOT and merry motorcades at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Plus, character cavalcades at Magic Kingdom Park will take on a special holiday twist, with Christmas friends on festive floats in their holiday finest. Gingerbread Men? Check! Elves and Reindeer? Check, check! And the Toy Soldiers will join the Main Street Philharmonic as they march through Magic Kingdom Park, bringing musical holiday cheer for all to hear.

When night falls, special projection effects will give a festive look to Cinderella Castle this year, providing a colorful backdrop for photo ops. The appearance of the iconic castle will be transformed with a rotating series of designs including a whimsical Christmas sweater and a regal overlay of red, green and gold ornamentation.

Of course, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a meal among friends and family. Minnie Mouse will be hosting a yuletide gathering for all her friends at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting Nov. 6. Santa Goofy will be there, along with Minnie and more in their holiday best.

Shifting gears to Disney Springs, You will discover Christmas around every corner as they come across a collection of elaborately-decorated Disney Christmas trees spread throughout this retail, dining and entertainment destination. In the evening, encounter a magical snowfall in areas within Town Center, West Side and The Landing, adding an extra touch of wonder to your holiday shopping. And to top it off, Jock Lindsey will once again be turning his hangar bar into Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar complete with delightful holiday décor and a delicious limited-time menu filled with festive favorites.

Disney Resort hotels will also be decked out for the holidays too, with their lobbies featuring iconic trees and other festive flourishes.

Starting a bit later in the season, on Nov. 27, holiday kitchens will return around World Showcase promenade with favorites like American Holiday Table featuring Slow-roasted Turkey with Stuffing and Bavaria Holiday Kitchen with dishes like Cheese Fondue in a Bread Bowl.

Step inside World ShowPlace to enjoy the returning group, JOYFUL! as they present a journey through R&B, Gospel, contemporary and traditional Christmas and holiday music. Also, the Voices of Liberty will bring their incredible 8-part harmonies to the America Gardens Theatre stage for a special concert of favorite carols and songs of the season.

We’re looking forward to helping you create new traditions this year with unique ways to enjoy the season together. There’s a lot of holiday fun to see and do at Walt Disney World Resort! To learn more about about booking a getaway with seasonal experiences, ask your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista for a free, no-obligation quote at: https://vacationswithcharacter.net/ We may even have a few special offers to share with you too!

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

Halloween Experiences Invade Universal Orlando this Fall

Halloween is Coming to Universal Orlando Resort this Fall!

HHN Fall 2020 – Courtesy of the Universal Travel Agent Partner Community

Halloween seasonal experiences are set to invade Universal Orlando for an extended time and will include trick-or-treating for little ones, plus the official debut of 2 all-new horrifying haunted houses, sure to please any #HalloweenHorrorNights fans, and more!

AND it’s all included as part of your daytime theme park admission beginning the weekend of September 26th and 27th and then daily from October 3rd through November 1st!

Universal Orlando Fall 2020 – Courtesy of the Universal Travel Agent Partner Community

Here are all the spooktacular details:

DRESS UP IN COSTUMES WHILE VISITING THE THEME PARKS
Guests can share their Halloween spirit and don family-friendly costumes while visiting Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

SCARECROW STALK IN UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA
Participate in the Universal Orlando Scarecrow Stalk, a NEW scavenger hunt that sends guests to find unique scarecrows and collect stamps at 13 retail locations throughout the park. A Halloween treat awaits those who successfully complete the stalk!

TRICK-OR-TREAT IN ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE
While venturing through Islands of Adventure, guests 12 and under can trick-or-treat to collect Halloween candy at retail locations marked by pumpkin signage.

BRAVE TWO HAUNTED HOUSES IN UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA
Developed by the twisted minds of Universal Orlando, guests will scream their way through two all-new haunted houses where terrifying creatures await to haunt their every move. In “Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives,” one of Universal Pictures’ most notorious monsters will step out of the shadows as she stops at nothing to revive Frankenstein’s Monster at any cost. In “Revenge of the Tooth Fairy,” guests will be immersed in an original story that uncovers a dark ritual behind the innocent childhood tradition.

Access to the two haunted houses is included with theme park admission. There may be times when the Virtual Line experience is available for the haunted houses. Guests can use the Official Universal Orlando Resort App to select a Virtual Line time to visit. NOTE: Haunted houses may be too intense for young children and are not recommended for guests under 13.

For additional Halloween treats this fall, you can also:

Stop by the popular Halloween Horror Nights Tribute store, an immersive retail location dedicated to the legacy of the world’s premier Halloween event, to purchase limited-time “throwback” merchandise and to get a taste of the horror with an assortment of nearly 20 sweet and savory items. TIP: The Halloween Cake is delicious!
Enjoy additional limited-time, crave-worthy food & beverage options to celebrate the season. In Universal Studios, this includes a variety of Halloween-themed drinks like the Frozen Candy Corn beverage at the all-new Skeleton Bar at Café La Bamba, the iconic staple, Pizza Fries, at Louie’s Italian Restaurant, and all-new food trucks near the haunted houses that feature uniquely themed items such as “Franken Fried Chicken & Funnel Brains.” In Universal CityWalk, guests can pick up the “Jack the Clown” and “Pumpkin Spice” specialty doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnut. Plus, guests can sip on specialty drinks themed after icons from Halloween Horror Nights history at Universal Orlando’s hotels, including “The Director” and “The Chance.”
Horror movie buffs can catch a classic horror flick at Universal Cinemark in CityWalk now through October 31.
Lastly, you can have a hauntingly good time at Hollywood Drive-In Golf, where you’ll encounter a choice of two family friendly courses: “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders From Planet Putt.” Experience cutting-edge interactive elements and special immersive features that can’t be found elsewhere. Encounter a haunted house, flying saucer, 30-foot robot, and more in quirky capers filled with ghoulish gags and interplanetary puns. Special effects and lighting make it easy to play day, evening, and even late night. And since it’s located in Universal CityWalk™, it’s just steps away from the rest of the action. This is one family favorite you won’t want to miss!
Courtesy of Robin Gantek, Vacations with Character®

To learn more about about booking a getaway to Universal Orlando’s Halloween seasonal experiences, visit your favorite Vacations with Character® Vacationista at: https://universalvacationplanners.com. We have a few special offers to share with you too and are experts at creating exciting adventures to this amazing destination!

Safety Note: Universal Orlando continues to implement its enhanced health and safety procedures and guidelines focused on “screening, spacing and sanitization,” and those practices will be applied to all experiences taking place this fall. Key measures include screening guests and team members, enforcing social distancing, requiring face coverings, limiting capacity at the parks, attractions and hotels, and increasing cleaning and disinfection procedures and more. Specific health and safety protocols for the haunted houses include:

Face coverings worn by team members – including scareactors – and guests.
Everyone following social distancing guidelines in the queue and inside the haunted houses. Plexi-glass will be installed in various areas to help keep separation between scareactors and guests.
The required use of hand sanitizer before entering each haunted house. It will also be available for guests to use immediately after they exit.
Managing the guest flow inside the haunted houses by pulsing travel parties and limiting capacity.

Virtual Queue Update for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The reopening of Disney parks has gone smoothly and happy guests are reporting back to share they are having a wonderful time. Here’s a few things to know if you are visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios soon and want to face an epic battle against the First Order on the thrilling attraction Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance!

Courtesy of Disney Destinations Travel News

Since Disney’s Hollywood Studios reopened, the virtual queues do fill quickly each day. This is due to new health-and-safety measures that includes requiring extra space between groups in queues and on attraction vehicles.

With all of this in mind and even with limited park attendance, Disney is simply not able to accommodate as many people on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance as they could before the implementation of physical distancing. Therefore, Disney is adjusting the virtual queue for this attraction.

Guests with a Disney Park Pass reservation to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, must continue to access the My Disney Experience app virtual queue if they wish to experience this attraction just as before, but beginning Friday, July 24, opportunities to join the queue will be available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. only.

Here are some helpful TIPS to be aware of before you arrive:

First, make sure to download the My Disney Experience app before you arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
Also, make sure your My Disney Experience account is linked to park tickets for you and the others in your group because you can enroll everyone in the virtual queue at the same time.
While you are in the park and at precisely 10 a.m. or 2 p.m., log in to your account. Groups will fill up quickly, so you must be diligent!
Once you have logged in, select “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Virtual Queue” on the home screen. You will be able to view the current status and next steps for joining the virtual queue.
The app will indicate when there is no availability for a specific distribution time. If there is no availability try to join a backup group.
Make sure push notifications are turned on for My Disney Experience so you will be alerted if your group is called to return. You’ll have up to an hour from the time of the alert to go to the entrance of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Guests who are enrolled in the virtual queue will be able to see an estimated return time indicating when they may be called back to experience the attraction. This time may change throughout the day, so continue to check the app for updates. Also, the tip boards around the park will display the boarding groups that have been called back.
In order to give as many guests as possible the opportunity to join the Resistance, each guest can enter the virtual queue no more than once per day.
Please note that joining the virtual queue does not guarantee the ability to experience Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

If you have any questions or need assistance with joining the virtual queue, cast members at Guest Experience Team locations throughout the park are available to assist. While you wait for your virtual queue group to be called, you can enjoy other experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios including the newest addition, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.

Enjoy your vacation and “May the force be with you!”

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