¡Celebración Encanto! Premieres at EPCOT: A Must-See Experience

Step into the magic as “¡Celebración Encanto!” makes its grand debut on the newly unveiled CommuniCore Plaza stage at EPCOT. Running until September 6, this 20-minute live stage show features the beloved songs and story from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto, presented multiple times daily to guests of all ages.

Echoing the charm of “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, two storytellers bring the magical tale of Encanto to life with movie trivia and interactive sing-alongs. Belt out favorites like “The Family Madrigal,” “Surface Pressure,” and “What Else Can I Do?” – lyrics are provided onscreen, so everyone can join in! 

Audience participation is encouraged as select guests are invited onstage to dance and help narrate during “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” explaining the mysterious family member’s backstory. You’ll even pick up some new dance moves to show off during your next Encanto viewing. Get ready for appearances from Mirabel and (yep – we are talking about him) Bruno! After the show, join them for an unforgettable dance party, complete with live instruments for the audience to play alongside the dancing cousins.

EPCOT’s latest addition, ¡Celebración Encanto!, celebrates the magic of Encanto with shows at 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 1:25 PM, 2:25 PM, and 3:25 PM.

Explore the New CommuniCore Hall Now Open at EPCOT

The final construction walls at EPCOT’s central area have come down, unveiling the stunning new CommuniCore Hall, a year-round hub for EPCOT’s famous festivals. This addition complements the tranquil World Celebration Gardens located just behind Spaceship Earth, offering guests an indoor space to recharge and get a reprieve from the Florida sun. 

In this new space, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy welcome guests at the Mickey & Friends Meet and Greet. Positioned against a striking mural of EPCOT, it’s the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photo ops and cherished moments with some favorite Disney characters.

This new venue also boasts a quick-service food window offering beloved dishes from previous EPCOT festivals. Here’s a look at the current menu selections:

EPCOT’s Festival Favorites Menu

Cheese-stuffed Arepas – $5.25
With Cilantro-Lime Crema and Cotija

Cheese-stuffed Arepas – $6.50
With Chicken and Avacado

Coconut Tres Leches – $5.00
Vanilla Cake soaked with Oat, Almond, and Coconut Milk topped with Toasted Coconut

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As darkness falls, a fleet of 800 drones illuminates the night as they transform into breathtaking visuals standing 400 feet tall, recreating famous movie moments right before your eyes. Watch in awe as Peter Pan flies to Neverland along with WALL-E and Eve, dancing together among the stars, all brought to life in a spectacular new way.

Each scene is beautifully synced to classic Disney soundtracks, familiar character dialogues, and an original song that together weave a captivating narrative. Highlights include appearances by cherished characters from Toy Story, Coco, Dumbo, Peter Pan, Up, the Star Wars saga, and beyond.

The 10-minute show is the perfect way to cap off your day at Disney Springs, where you can indulge in dining, shopping, and entertainment. With two showtimes each evening at 9:00 PM and 10:45 PM, planning your visit is easy and ensures that everyone has the chance to experience the magic. Prime viewing spots are located on the West Side of Disney Springs—along the waterfront between the Cirque du Soleil Theatre and Aerophile – The World Leader in Balloon Flight.

Disney Dreams that Soar is just the beginning of an unforgettable summer at Walt Disney World Resort! The tale of Princess and the Frog continues at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park, opening on June 28. Meanwhile, EPCOT invites you to join the sing-along “¡Celebración Encanto!” from June 10 through September 6, celebrating the music and story of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto.

Don’t miss the magic of Disney Dreams that Soar this summer, running from May 24 through September 2 at Walt Disney World Resort’s Disney Springs. Make this nighttime experience part of your visit, and let your imagination soar!

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Visit Gertie the Dinosaur

This larger-than-life dino is more than just a great place to grab ice cream. It’s a nod to one of the first popular animated characters in the history of film, Gertie! Originally debuting on February 18, 1914, Gertie the Dinosaur was the first animated film to use animated techniques that would influence the next generation of animators, including Walt Disney. Some of these techniques include animation loops, keyframes, and registration marks. 

When constructing Disney-MGM Studios in the 80’s, Walt Disney Imagineers included an over-sized Gertie in their plans for Echo Lake. Thirty-three years later, she can still be found in this area of the park today!

Get Backstage Passes to Aerosmith’s Concert on Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster

One of the biggest thrills at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. This coaster takes guests from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 2.7 seconds, and they race through Hollywood to make it backstage in time for Aerosmith’s concert. While waiting in line, keep an eye out for any touring posters that may feature you as the headliner. Just don’t forget to keep your head back and smile for the camera as Steven Tyler counts down for your big launch!

Try Blue or Green Milk

Will you go blue or go green? When you’re enjoying Batuu’s legendary frozen beverage, you really can’t go wrong! The Milk Stand in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is serving up Blue and Green Milk to guests daily. Blue Milk has a more fruity taste, while Green Milk has a tropical citrus taste. Guests 21 and older can even add rum or tequila to their Blue or Green Milk for an alcoholic twist!

Find the Original Park Logo

Disney-MGM Studios became Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2008, changing the park’s name and logo for the first time in almost two decades. While Disney’s Hollywood Studios is proudly displayed around the park today, there’s still a place where you can find this park’s original logo if you know where to look!

As you make your way toward the Chinese Theater at the park’s hub, pay the cameraman statue on the left a visit. You’ll find a Dedication Plaque for Disney-MGM Studios displayed near the base of the statue. It features the park’s original logo, its opening date, and a quote from Disney CEO at the time, Michael Eisner.

Take A Ride on Slinky Dog Dash

Andy got creative with his Mega Coaster Play Kit, adding his Slinky Dog and making a family-friendly coaster for toys of all ages! Slinky Dog Dash features unique views of Andy’s backyard and quite a few hidden details in plain sight. From nods to important dates and Pixar shorts to remnants of Pixar Place and the name of the smaller company that created Rex and was purchased by Mattel in a leveraged buyout, there’s a lot to take in on this attraction!

Meet Minnie and Sorcerer Mickey

Strike a pose with the park’s finest, Minnie and Mickey Mouse! The stars of Disney’s Hollywood Studios are ready for their close up at Red Carpet Dreams, and you can join them. Minnie is dressed in her Tinseltown best and red-carpet ready, while Mickey rocks his Sorcerer’s Apprentice costume from his hit Disney film, Fantasia. This memorable character meet and greet is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Drop in to the Hollywood Tower Hotel

If you’re a thrill-seeker, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is a must-do at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Did you know this attraction boasts the title of second tallest ride on property? At 199 feet tall, the Tower of Terror is only a half of an inch shorter than Walt Disney World’s tallest attraction, Expedition Everest. 

Since opening in 1994, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror has undergone a few updates when it comes to its drop sequences, but the overall theming and storytelling it is known for has remained virtually untouched, standing the test of time almost three decades later. Don’t forget to make time to check in on your next Disney’s Hollywood Studios day!

Have A Meal At The Hollywood Brown Derby

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to a replica of a famous Hollywood restaurant from the Golden Age, The Hollywood Brown Derby. This signature dining restaurant has been a part of the park since its opening day and is known for its famous menu items like the Cobb Salad. You’ll feel like a celebrity taking a trip back in time to the Golden Age of Hollywood when you check this spot off of your must-do list!

Conquer Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or not, you won’t want to skip one of Walt Disney World’s most technologically advanced attractions to date. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts guests right into the adventure of this galaxy far, far away. You find that this attraction features  familiar faces from the Star Wars universe, while you’ll also meet new allies along your journey. 

While it may be one of the longest waits in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this immersive attraction has a longer ride time than most making it worth the wait. It’s guaranteed to be a new park favorite for you and your crew.

Use the Play Disney Parks App

The Play Disney Parks App is a free app available in the App Store and on Google Play. It helps guests get even more out of their Disney parks day thanks to trivia, digital achievements, playlists, interactive experiences and more. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll want to pull up this app while waiting in the queue for both Toy Story Mania and Slinky Dog Dash and while visiting Batuu.

Experience Chewie Mode on the Millennium Falcon

It’s a big deal for Star Wars fans to check piloting the Millennium Falcon off of their bucket list, but have you heard of this hack? While riding Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, guests can replace the voice of Hondo Ohnaka with Chewbacca for the entire experience! Activating Chewie Mode requires all six willing participants in the vehicle and the help of a Cast Member to unlock it. This is one hack that not every Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run-goer will experience, so ask your Cast Member about Chewie Mode next time you board the Millennium Falcon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge!

Watch Muppet*Vision 3D

This 3D show is fun for the entire family! Muppet*Vision 3D was one of Jim Henson’s final projects before he passed away in 1990. This area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios had plans for a much larger Muppet footprint, including additional restaurants and attractions like a Muppet version of the Great Movie Ride. Although Jim Henson’s original vision for Muppet Courtyard was shelved after his untimely death, guests can still enjoy the attraction that inspired it all.

While you’re visiting Muppet*Vision 3D, keep an eye out for some extra special details. When you walk into the attraction’s building you’ll see a sign that states the crew will be back soon and the key is under the mat. Find the mat and you’ll see that there really is a key there! While in the lobby waiting for the show to start, take a look around. You’ll spot “a net full of jello” hanging from the ceiling – a visual gag that pays tribute to “Annette Funicello,” one of the original members of the Mickey Mouse Club. A photo of the Muppet version of Jim Henson can also be found in this room.

Have a Meal at ’50s Primetime Cafe

Take a trip back in time to the 1950s at this one-of-a-kind restaurant experience. Enjoy classic American comfort food like meatloaf, pot roast, and fried chicken at your cousin’s. Best part? There’s a television at every table! It’s no wonder that this restaurant has been serving guests ever since Disney-MGM Studios’ opening day. 

You’ll feel like you stepped right into a 1950’s sitcom. You can make your cousins proud and become an official member of the Clean Plate Club, but make sure you save some room for their famous Peanut Butter and Jelly Shake!

Assemble Your Own Droid at Droid Depot

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is home to a number of Star Wars experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. Building your very own droid is a big one! Build your own BB-Series or R-Series droid from the colorful components that roll by on the conveyor belt in the Droid Depot. When you’re done you’ll have your very own travel companion, ready to take on all of your Batuu adventures with you! 

To secure your spot at the Droid Depot, you’ll have to book a reservation based on availability. Each appointment for this experience is about 20 minutes and will cost $99.

Visit Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight

There’s only one place that guests can give Olaf a warm hug at Walt Disney World resort, and it’s located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Since character hugs are officially back, there’s never been a better time to visit your favorite snowman! Olaf can be found daily at Celebrity Spotlight in Echo Lake, meeting guests from 9:00 AM through 5:00 PM. He’s finally doing what frozen things do in summer, and he can’t wait to meet you!

Character Dining with Hollywood & Vine

Hollywood & Vine is a great choice for character dining at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, guests can interact with some of their favorite characters while enjoying a meal. At breakfast time, you’ll be joined by Disney Junior stars like Vampirina and Fancy Nancy for Play ‘n Dine, while for lunch and dinner Minnie, Mickey and friends will greet you at Minnie’s Springtime Dine.

Peep the Handprints Outside of the Chinese Theater

Disney-MGM Studios opened with some pretty impressive Hollywood details and the Chinese Theater exterior is one that’s remained virtually unchanged over the past three decades. Did you know the Chinese Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a full-scale replica of the original Grauman’s Chinese Theater found in Hollywood? While the attraction found within the building has changed, the iconic celebrity hand and footprints in the forecourt can still be found right out front. 

When you visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios next, make your way to the Chinese Theater forecourt and take a look at some of the stars that left their mark in this movie-themed park over the years! 

Train At Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy

Step into the Cars universe as a rookie racer getting trained by the best – Lightning McQueen himself! This first-of-its-kind attraction is high octane and gets you up close to all of the racing action. Find Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy at the end of Sunset Boulevard near Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster!

Learn About Walt Disney at Walt Disney Presents

In 2001, Walt Disney Presents opened as a part of the 100 Years of Magic celebration, in honor of Walt Disney’s 100th birthday. Over two decades later, guests can still learn all about the man that started it all, Walt Disney on this self-guided gallery tour. Walt Disney Presents features rare artifacts, Disney merchandise through the ages, models of the Disney parks, and more. At the end of your tour, stick around for Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, a 15-minute documentary about Walt featuring historic footage, rare audio clips, and Disney family home movies. Walt Disney Presents should be a must-do for any Disney’s Hollywood Studios-goer looking to learn more about the visionary before the Disney name.

Take a Walk Through Andy’s Backyard

Toy Story Land shrinks us down to the size of a toy. This is a land where guests feel like they are truly immersed into the story of Pixar’s first film franchise, Toy Story. If you’re a fan of Disney details, you’ll want to spend a little extra time exploring Andy’s Backyard on your next Disney’s Hollywood Studios day. A number of Pixar Easter Eggs have been worked into this land through dominos, blocks, price tags, and more. You can even find Andy’s dog Buster’s collar tag if you know where to look!

Watch Vacation Fun at the Mickey Shorts Theater

If you’ve never watched the new Mickey Mouse cartoons prior to experiencing Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, watching Vacation Fun at the Mickey Shorts Theater is a must-do. This original animated short film will get you all caught up on the new style of Mickey animation before you board your train on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway! After you exit the theater, you can step right into some of the scenes from the film thanks to life-sized photo spots. You’ll feel like you really visited Potatoland, Yodelburge, and more.

Grab a Drink at Oga’s Cantina

This flagship eatery is the most popular place to grab a drink in all of Batuu. Oga’s Cantina features an extensive menu of galactic concoctions (both with and without alcohol) that will make you feel truly immersed in the Star Wars universe. This experience requires an advanced dining reservation, so plan ahead to lock yours in before your next Disney’s Hollywood Studios day.

Experience Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Oldest Attraction

Did you know that none of the opening day attractions from Disney-MGM Studios are still in operation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios today? The attraction that boasts the title of oldest Disney’s Hollywood Studios attraction today is Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! While this stunt show did open in 1989, it was still quite a few months after Disney-MGM Studios’ opening day.

Almost thirty-three years later, this action-packed show is still exciting audiences of all ages on their Disney’s Hollywood Studios day. So next time you visit Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!, just know that you’re experiencing an important part of this movie-themed park’s history.

Sing Along with Elsa & Anna

Can’t get enough of Frozen? Disney’s Hollywood Studios has got you covered. For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration lets guests sing-along to their favorite songs from Frozen with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf, and the royal historians of Arendelle. This sing-along takes place hourly from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, giving you plenty of opportunities to squeeze it into your ultimate Disney’s Hollywood Studios day!

Disney Visa Cardmember Photo Op

If you’re a Disney Visa Cardmember, this next must do is for you! Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to an exclusive photo opportunity for Disney Visa Cardmembers, and you can find it at Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard. These free photo downloads will be digitally enhanced to show Star Wars characters posing right beside you. Eligible guests bring your Disney Visa Card and post for this special Star Wars photo opportunity! Available daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Hop Aboard Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Nothing can stop us now! Hop right into Mickey & Minnie’s cartoon world on this colorful, family-friendly attraction. Did you know Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway boasts the title of very first ride-through attraction to star Mickey Mouse and his friends? Located inside the iconic Chinese Theater, this attraction features an innovative ride system, groundbreaking technology, and an unforgettable experience for guests. 

Keep an eye out for hidden Mickeys! Between the queue, attraction, and exit area of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, hundreds of Hidden Mickeys can be found.

Handcraft Your Own Lightsaber

Have you always dreamed of handcrafting your own Lightsaber? At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this dream can become a reality! Savi’s Workshop at the Black Spire Outpost is where you’ll choose your path to construct your very own Lightsaber. After choosing from one of the four hilt themes and the color of your kyber crystal, you’ll assemble your hilt and connect it to a 31” lightsaber blade, deeming you ready for any galactic adventures in your future! Savi’s Workshop does require a reservation and lightsabers are $219.99.

Watch Beauty & the Beast Live on Stage

There’s no business like show business, and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios you can expect to find some of the best stage shows on property. Beauty & the Beast Live on Stage has been its recent return and it offers five showtimes daily for guests. Did you know this Broadway-style musical debuted on the same day as the animated film it’s inspired by? That’s right! The day that Beauty and the Beast hit theaters, November 22, 1991, this stage show also opened at Disney-MGM Studios.

Experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

Another 1989 attraction that can still be experienced at Disney’s Hollywood Studios today is Star Tours! While its location hasn’t changed in decades, the attraction itself got a major upgrade in 2011. Star Tours – The Adventure Continues takes you on one of 700 possible ride experiences, making every trip in the StarSpeeder 1000 an exciting adventure. Guests could end up traveling to locations from any of the nine films in the Star Wars saga, and you never know who will get chosen as the Rebel Spy on your trip!

Keep An Eye Out For Roger Rabbit Details

When Disney-MGM Studios opened in 1989, Roger Rabbit from Who Framed Roger Rabbit? had a pretty big presence as one of the new park’s focal point characters. Imagineers had planned for an area, Roger Rabbit’s Hollywood, to be located near the end of Sunset Boulevard where we find Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith today. Although this area never came to be, there are still remnants of Roger Rabbit to be found around the park over three decades later. 

Some details include the Roger Rabbit Window above Hollywood & Vine featuring the facade of Detective Eddie Valiant’s office with a Roger Rabbit-shaped hole through the window, Roger Rabbit’s hand and footprints that can still be found in the Chinese Theater forecourt, and a Maroon Studios billboard featuring Baby Herman, Roger Rabbit, and Jessica Rabbit is still overlooking Echo Lake. 

Enjoy the Nighttime Entertainment

Although we’re still waiting for a reopening date for Fantasmic! sometime this year, there’s still Disney’s Hollywood Studios-exclusive nighttime entertainment to experience! First, there’s Disney Movie Magic which begins nightly at 8:40 PM, projecting classic Disney movie moments onto the Chinese Theater under the stars. Immediately after at 9:00 PM is the Wonderful World of Animation. This nightly projection show takes guests on a journey through over 90 years of animation from Disney and Pixar. Make sure to head over to the Chinese Theater in advance to grab a great viewing spot!

Experience the Hollywood Tower Hotel: A Beacon of Magic

During the World’s Most Magical Celebration, all four of Walt Disney World’s park icons become Beacons of Magic after dark. Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ current park icon, the Hollywood Tower, serves as the park’s Beacon of Magic during the 50th anniversary celebration. Each night after dusk guests gather below the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel to watch it glitter with EARidescence. This nightly occurrence is only available during the World’s Most Magical Celebration, so don’t miss your chance to watch this park icon come to life!

Grab A Disney’s Hollywood Studios Map

Before you leave the park at the end of your Disney’s Hollywood Studios day, don’t forget to grab a map. This complimentary souvenir is a great way to look back on your visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth, especially if it’s during an important celebration like Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary!

Over three decades later, Disney’s Hollywood Studios continues to wow guests of all ages. With its immersive lands, big thrills, and authentic theming it’s no wonder Disney lovers keep coming back for more! Did your Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ must do make our list? Discuss it all with 150,000+ other Disney die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

For the first time in years, guests can get excited for the return of Walt Disney World’s most spooktacular celebration! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is officially returning to the Most Magical Place on Earth. This special Halloween event is coming to Magic Kingdom on select nights August 12, 2022 through October 31, 2022 after normal park operating hours, from 7:00 PM to midnight.

Guests can look forward to the return of their favorite Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party moments like trick-or-treating around Magic Kingdom, the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show, themed attraction overlays, Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, and more. To celebrate Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party guests will also receive a keepsake 50th anniversary reusable trick-or-treating tote bag and a Halloween-themed 50th Anniversary celebration commemorative print!

The announced Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates are:

August: 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30

September: 2, 5, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 29, 30

October: 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31

Tickets for this special Halloween event go on sale May 18, 2022, with ticket prices ranging from $109-$199. Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members are eligible for specially priced tickets for select dates. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary tickets can be purchased online or by calling 407-939-4240.

We’ll continue sharing new details for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party as they materialize, so check back as we get closer to the spooky season! For now, let’s celebrate being Halfway to Halloween this weekend at the Most Magical Place on Earth. From limited time eats and treats to new Disney PhotoPass opportunities and Halloween details at the Disney Parks, we’re sharing everything you can look forward to for Halfway to Halloween this weekend.

No Tricks, Just Eats & Treats

Frankenstein Cake Slices

This three-layer chocolate cake is inspired by Frankenstein. Covered in cookies and cream buttercream and topped with M&M’s, it’s sold by the slice. Grab yours at Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs for a limited time through May 1, 2022.

Hocus Pocus “Amuck” Cakes

Three rich devil’s food cake cupcakes with “peanut boo-ter” filling decorated with colorful frosting to resemble each of the Sanderson Sisters. Find the Hocus Pocus “Amuck” Cakes through May 1, 2022 at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Jack Skellington Popcorn Bucket

Nightmare Before Christmas fans, get excited! This Jack Skellington Popcorn Bucket is available in Magic Kingdom at the Liberty Square Popcorn Cart and other outdoor vending carts for a limited time. Grab yours for Halfway to Halloween through May 1, 2022. (Limited to two buckets per person per transaction while supplies last.)

Lady on the Gravestone 50th Chilling Chamber Pop

This pop features citrus cake crumbs, raspberry buttercream, and blue crisp pearls topped with white chocolate Lady on the Gravestone piece. Find it in Magic Kingdom at Sleepy Hollow through August 13, 2022.

Mickey Mummy Popcorn Bucket

This Mickey Mummy Popcorn Bucket is back at Disney Springs for the Halfway to Halloween weekend! Find it on the West Side of Disney’s Shopping and Dining District at various outdoor vending carts through May 1, 2022. (Limited to two buckets per person per transaction while supplies last.)

Pumpkin Spice Shadow Cakes

Enjoy chocolate-dipped spice cakes with a festive pumpkin buttercream filling. Find this treat through May 1, 2022 at Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs.

Sister’s Elixir Hot Cocoa Bomb

We smell chocolate – a dark chocolate cauldron from The Ganachery in Disney Springs! This cauldron is filled with marshmallows and hot cocoa mix, topped with an edible image of the Sanderson Sisters and served with a chocolate broom stirrer. It’s only available this weekend, so grab yours through May 1, 2022.

Valentina Cake

A classic red velvet cake covered in light cookies and cream marshmallow buttercream. Find the Valentina Cake through May 1, 2022 at Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs.

Halfway to Halloween Trading Cards

Gideon’s Bakehouse in Disney Springs is getting into the spirit of the season this weekend. In addition to the spooky specialty treats, each four and six cookie box will feature one of sixteen exclusive trading cards for Halfway to Halloween through May 1, 2022. There’s even a bonus card featuring Barnabas Mephistophelittle for those waiting in line at Gideon’s Bakehouse.

Spooktacular New PhotoPass Offerings

New Disney PhotoPass Lens

Sunset Boulevard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a new Disney PhotoPass Lens that’s perfect for Halfway to Halloween! You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time to that stormy night long ago when five people boarded an elevator that took them directly to the Twilight Zone. With purchase of Disney Genie+ services, this new Disney PhotoPass Lens can be found on the My Disney Experience app.

Haunted Mansion PhotoPass Update

While flash pictures aren’t allowed on this classic Magic Kingdom attraction, guests will find that an image from it will materialize on the My Disney Experience app after riding it. While this ride photo is nothing new, the update does take advantage of the dead space in the picture. Each Haunted Mansion photo will feature a grim grinning ghost, just in time for Halfway to Halloween.

We’re still a few months away from spooky season at the Most Magical Place on Earth, but knowing what Halloween excitement is in store is half of the fun! We hope you’ll take advantage of these Halfway to Halloween offerings if you find yourself in Orlando this weekend. Discuss it all with 150,000+ other Disney die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook.

The post How to Celebrate Halfway to Halloween at Walt Disney World 2022 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Stunning resorts

One of the best (or worst?) kept secrets is that the resorts are all open to the public. Anyone can visit and admire the amazing landscapes, the beautiful architecture and perfectly themed atmosphere. The pools are for guest use only but feel free to take a stroll, have a meal or a drink or just admire the view.  My favorites include the Polynesian Village Resort and the Animal Kingdom Lodge where you can see many animals from the multiple viewing areas at the resort. Trying to stay fit? Why not follow one of the jogging trails and be inspired by the sheer beauty of Walt’s vision.

Golf for the whole family

When in Florida, do as the locals do and play a round of golf! Disney World has 3 championship courses and a 9-hole walking course operated by the Arnold Palmer Golf Management. Rental equipment and even rental shoes are available as well as golf carts equipped with complementary GPS units. If you feel your game isn’t up to par, they offer lessons as well.

If that sounds a little intimidating, Disney also has 2 mini putt locations providing fun for all ages. Winter Summerland, located near Blizzard Beach waterpark, and Fantasia Gardens and Fairways, located near Disney’s Boardwalk. Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens are in line with traditional mini putt courses with fun obstacles and characters along the course. Fairways resembles a traditional golf course, without needing a driver. This course is a little more challenging with bunkers, water hazards and “sand traps.”

Waterfront fun

After a few hours on the course, cool off at Sammy Duvall’s Watersport Centre located at the Contemporary Resort. Wakeboarding, parasailing, water skiing and tubing are all available for you to try out. If you aren’t keen on being pulled around Bay Lake, you can rent a personal watercraft, take a fishing tour or captain a pontoon boat. Disney offers multiple locations for boat rentals including the Boardwalk and many of the resorts. If you rent a boat at the Contemporary, make sure you take a ride around Discovery Island and view what’s left of the abandoned island that was once an animal sanctuary (long before Animal Kingdom) and the former River Country waterpark. You will have to look closely, but it is an eerie reminder to Disney’s days of yesteryear.

Awesome animals

For a more laid back water adventure, head to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground (yes, they have campgrounds!) where you can rent a kayak or canoe. Explore the waterways at your own pace and enjoy the peacefulness of the canals that contrast the excitement of the Magic Kingdom just around the corner.

While you’re at Fort Wilderness, check out the Tri-Circle D Ranch where you can hit the trails on horseback. The trail ride is a guided tour through the resort and campgrounds perfect for even beginner riders. Hopefully you will get a glance at some local wildlife while you’re out there. For the little adventurers, there are ponies and a chance to see Cinderella’s horses! Tri-Circle D also offers carriage and wagon rides. During the holidays, the carriage is transformed into a “sleigh” decorated to make Santa proud.

Classic nightlife

When day turns to night, head over to the Boardwalk. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Coney Island as you stroll around checking out street performers, games at the midway, carnival style eats and evening entertainment. While Disney Springs seems to get all the attention, don’t miss this little gem as a great place to eat and hang out. Enjoy dueling piano players at Jellyrolls, dance the night away at Atlantic Dance Hall or catch the big game at the ESPN Club. Get around in a surrey bike fit for the whole family and you can even catch a glimpse of the fireworks from Epcot! Bring your appetites to Beaches and Cream Soda Shop (at the Beach Club resort with access from the Boardwalk) and order “the Kitchen Sink.” This ice cream sundae is actually served in a mini kitchen sink and filled with 5 different types of ice cream and every topping they have!

A new perspective on an old classic

Of course, one of the most popular things to do at Disney World is to see Wishes, the spectacular fireworks show at Magic Kingdom. Yes, even this you can do without stepping foot near the crowds that gather by the castle. Remember when I said the resorts were open to the public? Well, this is the best time to head over to one of the Magic Kingdom resorts where you can see the fireworks for free! At the Polynesian and the Grand Floridian, take a seat on one of their beaches and view the fireworks over the water. At the Contemporary Resort, head to the 4^th floor observation deck for an “I can’t believe how close we are!” view. The lights are lowered and music is piped in through the speakers at each location. You can also see the fireworks from many of the resorts restaurants, where time seems to stop as the show takes place. If you want something a little private, you can even book a fireworks cruise or take the family on the super fun “Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage.”

As exciting as all of this is, there is still more! You could easily spend days (weeks?) doing all the things that do not require theme park admission. This is great for us locals looking for a way to spend a day off and for tourists who feel like they have seen and done it all or simply aren’t “park people” (gasp!). The prices of the activities listed range from free (yes!) to splurge worthy so be sure to check before you go. Also, reservations are recommended for some activities including the Tri-Circle D Ranch, the fireworks cruises and Beaches and Cream Soda Shop.

See, what did I say? No ticket, no problem!

Have you tried any of these activities? What was your favorite?

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A brief history of MyMagic+

In order to know the future, it is good to reflect on the past. There are many hurdles that this project faced in the beginning and new ones it continues to face today. How do you manage ‘inventory’ of FastPasses now that they will be reserved in advanced rather than only being available at the attraction itself the day of? The technology is all based on RFID, what is the back up plan when that system crashes? When MyMagic+ first rolled out, it was done in phases to select guest types. First, Disney Cast Members got to test it out. Eventually guests staying at select Walt Disney World hotels were able to join in, and soon all Disney owned and operated hotel guests. After about a year of testing it was rolled out to the masses. Anyone with a ticket can participate.

MyMagic+ serves many purposes. It is most well known for its ability to allow guests to reserve three FastPasses in advance of their visit. Guests staying at any Disney owned and operated hotel, as well the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin (a Starwood property) can reserve their FastPasses up to 60 days in advance. Anyone else with valid admission can reserve up to 30 days in advance, the exception being Annual Passholders and Cast Members, which can book up to 7 days in advance. This can be done online or through the MyDisneyExperience app.

The second most well known purpose is the MagicBand, which itself can serve three different purposes. First, it serves as a theme park ticket. Second, as your room key, allowing you to open your hotel room door with just a tap of your MagicBand as well as to charge purchases back to your room account with the simple touch of your MagicBand. Finally, the band acts are your PhotoPass card. This is way more convenient than having to collect PhotoPass cards. What’s more is on select attractions on-ride video is taken and linked to your account simply by you riding the attraction while wearing your MagicBand.

From the Walt Disney Company’s perspective, MyMagic+ aims to accomplish a number of goals. The most obvious of which is to increase guest satisfaction by allowing them to plan and customize their own vacation itinerary, essentially guaranteeing that they get to experience a majority of their “must-dos” and hopefully reduce attraction wait times across the board. This hopefully leads to guests having more time to stop into the shops or enjoy some food and beverage in between scheduled activities.

Upcoming changes to MyMagic+

MyMagic+ is not without its criticisms. One of the greatest of which is that once you’ve used the initial three FastPass+ selections that you can book in advance you must visit one of the MyMagic+ kiosks to select your next one, one at a time, for the same park only. A few days ago WDWMagic.com reported that starting in early April 2016 we should start to get the ability to book your next FastPass+ through the app rather than having to go to the kiosks. This should hopefully save guests some more time. Freeing them up even more for shopping, dining, and smaller, less busy attractions.

There is no word yet on when the anticipated phase of being able to book a FastPass+ at a different park than the one you’re in will become available. This desired phase is a bit more of any undertaking. Should guests that aren’t physically in the park be able to snag FastPass+ thus reducing availability for guests who are indeed in that park? Will it be necessary to have different availability based on whether or not the guest is actually in the park when reserving their FastPass+?

The other update that WDWMagic reported is the roll out of a feature being dubbed “StoryMaker.” This feature is the stuff of many rumors and much speculation since the advent of MyMagic+. You see, that handy dandy RFID technology isn’t just for ticket entry or entering hotel rooms. Imagine the surprise and delight of coming to the end of a ride and an interactive element such as a screen or audio animatronic acknowledges someone in your party by name or references your hometown. This next level personalized experienced has been discussed for years. Three years ago observant park goers started noticing screens and other elements being installed at various attractions in the belief that they would eventually interact with guests as part of StoryMaker.

As other priorities took rank, the roll out of StoryMaker was put aside. Critical corrections to how MyMagic+ works needed to happen. The StoryMaker program is rumored to include elements in ride queues, rides themselves, resorts, and more. One such possible in-ride element could be a record of your previous scores on rides like Toy Story Mania or Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.

In fact, as of this week it has been reported on Twitter that “it’s a small world” now has a personalized greeting at the farewell scene! There is a screen that shows a farewell message and can include names of people in each ride vehicle based on who has a MagicBand.

I’m most excited about the possibility of meet and greet characters being able to have more personalized interactions with guests. I welcome the opportunity for the characters to know that I am from Orlando, that I am an annual passholder, or my birthdate. It might sound creepy to some, but Disney (any many other large companies) have been in the habit of harvesting data about their guests for years.

While we wait for these new changes to roll out in the coming weeks, it is important to note that just like the theme parks themselves, MyMagic+ is like a living, breathing thing. It will continue to evolve over the years. In the recent Disney shareholder meeting, CEO Bob Iger stated that as MyMagic+ evolves and is rolled out to other destinations, the MagicBand may no longer be the primary vehicle for delivering the experience. Perhaps each guest’s smartphone could do the trick? It would be nice to phase out the MagicBands considering they cannot be recycled. And although the marketing materials that are shipped to your home when book a vacation are impressive and exciting, I find the amount of material to be a bit wasteful as well. If you share this concern make sure any MagicBand you already have is linked to your MyDisney Experience app and you can reuse it on your future visits.

Just when you get used to a new feature or process, you can anticipate something new coming along. Additionally, something as intricate and personal as the StoryMaker initiative, will take time to fully roll out and will evolve as Disney learns what works and what doesn’t. Though it may feel like growing pains each time something new comes along, hopefully it will continue to improve the experience and make the planning and effort worth it – which is a other debate.

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