Travel Guide Updates for PassPorter's Walt Disney World 2015
(17th edition, early 2015 - More Book Information)Reminder: These updates do not include every new thing at Walt Disney World as that would require an entirely new book to explain (and, yes, we will have a 2016 edition)! Instead, this chart only lists the pages in PassPorter's Walt Disney World 2015 that would be out-of-date or incorrect without this information. Please note that updates listed with page numbers above 360 are extra information that do not apply directly to pages in the book, as the book only has 360 pages.
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Page Number Note: Updates with page numbers of '999' indicate that they do not correspond to pages in the guidebook but are still included here because we felt you might want to know this information.
| Page Number | PassPorter's Walt Disney World 2015 Update Description | 11 | The Orlando Magicard does not seem to be available anymore. Per visit Orlando's website "Visit Orlando's Magicard Deals has been replaced by our new Visit Orlando Deals program" The new program isn't a card, but instead online deals that you must either print and bring with you or show on your phone. - 2015-04-10 08:20:30 [update] | 32 | Walt Disney World Magic Your Way Packages that include trip insurance, will now require payment for the insurance at the time of purchase. So if you add trip insurance at the time of booking, you would owe the $200 PLUS the cost of the insurance. Previously, if you added trip insurance prior to final payment, the cost was added to your final payment amount. - 2015-05-12 10:05:41 [update] | 77 | Disney Vacation Club sales for the Polynesian Villas and Bungalows will begin for current members on January 12, 2015. Sales will open to new members on February 9, 2015. The first phase of the newly remodeled Polynesian Village Resort is set to open on April 1, 2015. - 2015-01-07 14:01:47 [update] | 95 | From Disney: "Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will undergo multiple refurbishment projects through 2017. Work will begin as early as Oct. 26, 2015 on the Hidden Springs pool, the leisure pool at The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, as well as the resort beach, playground and recreation fire pit." Rumor has it this construction is to add water-front Disney Vacation Club Villas, similar to those added to the Polynesian.
- 2015-07-14 08:07:19 [update] | 110 | Effective January 1, 2016, guests staying at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista will no longer have access to Extra Magic Hours at Walt Disney World theme parks. - 2015-07-07 11:07:09 [update] | 120 | Guests attending the Eat to the Beat Concerts during the Epcot Food & Wine Festival will now be able to use the FASTPASS+ system for seating! There will be a special queue for FASTPASS+ holders as well as designated seating. Guests with FASTPASS+ reservations should plan to arrive 20 minutes prior to the concert. - 2015-09-01 11:09:01 [update] | 121 | Walt Disney World (as well as Disneyland in California, Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney parks) has banned selfie sticks from all theme parks, water parks and DisneyQuest. (Selfie Sticks are sticks or poles to which a smartphone or camera can be attached, to allow the user to take a "selfie.") Cast Members will be searching for selfie sticks during bag check at the park entrances, and guests who are found with them will have the option to check the item for pick up later or to return the item to their car or resort room. - 2015-07-07 11:07:10 [update] | 122 | Disney Parks and Resorts including the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort have increased ticket prices. In addition to increasing the admission price ($105 plus tax for a one-day admission to the Magic Kingdom, $97 plus tax for a one-day admission to Epcot, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom), the No Expiration Option is no longer available. - 2015-02-24 10:02:53 [update] | 133 | Beginning October 4, 2015, guests can set sail on a brand new Wishes Dessert Cruise. The "FerryTale Wishes: Fireworks Dessert Cruise" includes a cruise that departs from the Ticket & Transportation Center on the iconic double decker ferry boat. Enjoy a dessert buffet and a view of Wishes, with the soundtrack piped in through the ferry boat's sound system. The cost is $99 per adult (ages 10+) and $69 per child (ages 3 - 9), including tax and gratuity. - 2015-09-08 11:09:33 [update] | 137 | The Magic Kingdom Hub in front of Cinderella Castle is undergoing an extensive refurbishment and expansion. The first phase is now open and includes new FastPass+ viewing locations for parades and fireworks. The viewing area is adjacent to Crystal Palace. - 2015-03-03 09:03:36 [update] | 139 | Pirates of the Caribbean at Walt Disney World will close for an extensive refurbishment from May 11 - September 25, 2015. Sad news for Pirates fans visiting this summer! - 2015-02-24 19:02:08 [update] | 152 | "Captain EO" will close temporarily beginning April 9, 2015. It will be replaced by a preview for the upcoming Disney film, "Tomorrowland" starring George Clooney. "Captain EO" will reportedly return sometime after the "Tomorrowland" premiere on May 22, 2015. No official return date has been announced.
- 2015-04-07 13:04:20 [update] | 152 | "Captain EO" - the 3D film featuring the late Michael Jackson has returned to Epcot. The film was temporarily replaced by previews for "Tomorrowland" and "Inside Out." - 2015-08-11 07:08:19 [update] | 159 | Innoventions West at Epcot will be closing in early May 2015 to prepare for all new experiences. The three current tenants - Think by IBM, The Great Piggy Bank Adventure (Presented by T. Rowe Price), and "Where's the Fire?" (Presented by Liberty Mutual), will all be removed. Disney has not announced what will be replacing these exhibits.
- 2015-03-24 10:03:56 [update] | 160 | Two Walt Disney World attractions will be receiving much needed expansions by the end of 2016. Soarin' at Epcot will be receiving an additional theater, and Toy Story Midway Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios will be receiving a third ride track. These additions will help to decrease average wait times for these very popular attractions. - 2015-03-10 11:03:44 [update] | 160 | The Soarin' attraction at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland will be getting a new film as well as a new name. "Soarin' Around the World" will include scenes from around the globe including natural landscapes as well as man-made wonders. The refreshed attraction is slated to debut in 2016. - 2015-08-18 10:08:24 [update] | 164 | The Sounds Like Summer concert series returns to Epcot in 2015. Running from June 7 through July 25, the series features "tribute" bands performing music by the Bee Gees, Pat Benatar, Billy Joel, Boston ("b" seems to be a popular letter this year), the Eagles, Journey, and U2. Shows are at 5:30, 6:45, and 8:00 pm daily, and are included with regular park admission.
The line-up includes (subject to change):
- 2015-04-16 15:04:58 [update] | 169 | At a shareholders meeting last week, in response to a question from a 6-year old child in attendance, Disney CEO Robert Iger confirmed that "significant work" is being done at Hollywood Studios that will result in the name of the park changing. Originally known as MGM Studios, the park has been known as Disney's Hollywood Studios since 2008. - 2015-03-17 10:03:46 [update] | 169 | Both the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort will be getting a new Star Wars-themed land. At 14 acres each, these will be the biggest themed-land expansions in Disney Parks history. The lands will feature two new attractions, including a chance for guests to pilot the Millenium Falcon. The lands will also include new restaurants, shopping, and interactive experiences. No official opening date has been announced. - 2015-08-18 10:08:57 [update] | 173 | From July 26 - Sept. 7, 2015, Guests ages 3 to 12 can become their favorite character from the movie “Frozen” at the Ice Palace Boutique at Disney's Hollywood Studios. There are packages that include "Frozen" fun for the whole family! Guests can choose from the following packages: “Frozen” Summer Fun Boutique Package - $75 (includes tax): • Includes Anna or Elsa-inspired shimmering makeup palette, face gems, nail polish, braided hair piece with sparkling snowflake accessory Ice Palace Boutique Package - $175 (includes tax) : • Includes Anna or Elsa-inspired shimmering makeup palette, face gems, nail polish, braided hair piece with sparkling snowflake accessory • Also includes access to the Ice Palace Café, exclusive to Guests purchasing the package, where you can enjoy “Frozen”-themed snacks • Priority seating to one (1) show of the For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration (Family Package is for up to 6 Guests, including the Guest getting a transformation) Ice Palace Boutique Deluxe Package - $240 (includes tax) : • Includes choice of either Anna or Elsa costume dress with shimmering makeup palette, face gems, nail polish, braided hair piece with sparkling snowflake accessory • Also includes access to the Ice Palace Café, exclusive to Guests purchasing the package, where you can enjoy “Frozen”-themed snacks • Priority seating to one (1) show of the For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration (Family Package is for up to 6 Guests, including the Guest getting a transformation) Guests can also ask about a special Olaf-inspired glitter hairstyle with Olaf t-shirt! The Ice Palace Boutique is located on Commissary Lane across from ABC Commissary at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 407-939-7895. - 2015-07-20 07:07:41 [update] | 179 | This year will be the last appearance of the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The area where the lights are displayed is part of the construction of Star Wars Land.
Guests can make reservations for two events this year to enjoy the lights one last time - the Merry & Bright Dessert Party being held November 6 - December 30, 2015, and the Merry & Bright Dinner Reception being held January 1 - 3, 2016. Reservations for both events can be made September 16, 2015 by calling 407-WDW-DINE. - 2015-09-14 09:09:33 [update] | 180 | The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney's Hollywood Studios will close on July 12, 2015. The Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse character meets will be moved to new locations. (The Big Hero 6 character meet is being discontinued.) No official word on what will be replacing The Magic of Disney Animation. - 2015-06-30 11:06:24 [update] | 180 | A new 11-acre, Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios will feature an expanded Toy Story Midway Mania, as well as two new attractions - a family-friendly Slinky Dog roller coaster, and an Alien Saucers attraction, rumored to be similar to Luigi's Flying Cars in Disney's California Adventure. No opening date has been announced. - 2015-08-18 10:08:47 [update] | 182 | Turner Classic Movies (TCM) became a sponsor of The Great Movie Ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2014. In addition to the narration provided by TCM host Robert Osborne, a new finale montage was unveiled this past weekend. The finale now includes footage from the upcoming "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," and the popular "Guardians of the Galaxy." - 2015-06-01 11:06:14 [update] | 192 | Harambe Market, the new quick service food court in the Africa section of Disney's Animal Kingdom, is now open. There are four windows: Kitamu Grill (skewered chicken and kebab flatbread sandwich), Famous Sausages (corndogs made with South African sausage), Chef Mwanga's (spice-rubbed Karubi pork rib paired with green papaya-carrot slaw) and Wanjohi Refreshments (craft beers, wines and non-alcoholic drinks). There is covered seating for 220 guests. - 2015-06-01 11:06:21 [update] | 20 | A new tour has been added to the line-up: Escape To Walt's Wilderness. This tour takes guests on a pontoon boat ride from the Contemporary to Fort Wilderness including animal-spotting with a Wilderness Guide. At Fort Wilderness, guests will get breakfast followed by a marshmallow roast, then wagon ride to an archery lesson. The tour concludes with a visit to the Tri Circle D ranch to see the horses. The tour is offered on select days from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. The cost is $109 per person, ages 7 & up. This tour can be booked by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. - 2015-07-27 13:07:09 [update] | 205 | Disney Springs newest lounge, Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, will open on September 22, 2015. This Indiana Jones-inspired lounge will feature drinks and small plates. - 2015-09-15 12:09:52 [update] | 209 | According to the Orlando Sentinel, DisneyQuest will be closing in early 2016 and will be replaced by the NBA Experience. The NBA Experience will feature interactive games, a store, and restaurant. - 2015-06-30 11:06:02 [update] | 215 | The Richard Petty Driving Experience was scheduled to close in late June 2015. The official date has been changed to August 9, 2015. - 2015-03-31 10:03:19 [update] | 216 | A new runDisney event will take place at the Walt Disney World Resort, April 14-17, 2016. "The Star Wars Half Marathon - The Dark Side" will feature a 5k, 10k, and half marathon. (By contrast, the Disneyland Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend will be "The Light Side of the Force!") Registration for the East Coast event beings September 22, 2015. - 2015-08-25 11:08:50 [update] | 216 | Ready to join The Dark Side of The Force? Registration for the "2016 Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend - The Dark Side", held at the Walt Disney World Resort April 15 - 17, 2016, will open on September 22, 2015, at 12:00 pm eastern. The weekend will include Kids Races, a 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, and Dark Side Challenge (which is the 10k and Half Marathon). Register at http://www.rundisney.com and "May the Force Be With You!" - 2015-09-22 07:09:50 [update] | 216 | The final Expedition Everest Challenge, a runDisney 5k race and scavenger hunt, will be held this weekend on May 3, 2015. The Challenge takes place at the Animal Kingdom at night. Challengers race through the park overcoming an obstacle course and solving clues in a scavenger hunt. - 2015-04-28 07:04:11 [update] | 228 | Walt Disney World restaurants, including both table service and counter service locations, are beginning to introduce allergy-friendly menus. The menus list the allergen content for each item, allowing guests to make informed choices when ordering. The menus are expected to be available at all locations within the next few weeks. - 2015-04-21 11:04:46 [update] | 231 | A new Jungle Cruise-theme restaurant will be opening in the Magic Kingdom this fall. The "Skipper Canteen" will feature "World Famous" Jungle cuisine and be staffed by Jungle Cruise skippers. ("The back side of your food! Oooooooo!") There will be several uniquely-themed dining rooms, including the "...once-hidden secret meeting room of the famed Society of Explorers and Adventurers." Let's hope Imagineering manages to slip in an homage to another club of a similar name. - 2015-08-18 10:08:18 [update] | 231 | Be Our Guest restaurant in the Magic Kingdom will begin testing a breakfast meal on March 20, 2015. The test is currently scheduled to end on June 18, 2015. Guests can begin making reservations on March 17, 2015 through My Disney Experience, www.disneyworld.com/dining, or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. The menu is considered "fast casual" (a.k.a. Quick Service) and is one quick service credit on the Disney Dining Plan. - 2015-03-16 16:03:25 [update] | 231 | Lunch at Be our Guest is advanced dining reservation now. Eileen from Ohio - 2015-04-08 12:36:56 [update] | 231 | Be Our Guest at the Magic Kingdom will be offering breakfast as a permanent option, following a successful test this summer. Beginning August 5, 2015, guests can make advanced dining reservations for dates October 4 and beyond. The Prix Fixe menu includes a choice of entrees with a selection of pastries for the table. The cost is $21.99 per adult plus tax, $13.99 per child (ages 3-9) plus tax. Advanced dining reservations can be made online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. - 2015-08-04 07:08:38 [update] | 232 | The Tomorrowland Terrace Dessert Party will be known as the Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party beginning July 5, 2015. The location will not change. The dessert menu and "atmosphere" are being enhanced. The ticket price is increasing to $49 per adult (ages 10+) and $29 per child (ages 3-9). Reservations can be made online at disneyworld.com/dining. - 2015-03-24 11:03:03 [update] | 233 | Looking for a Dole Whip? Beginning March 12, 2015, guests in search of their favorite pineapple soft serve treat will visit the former Sunshine Tree Terrace location (which will now be known as Aloha Isle). Those of us searching for our favorite Citrus Swirl (Me!) will now visit the former Aloha Isle (now known as Sunshine Tree Terrace. - 2015-03-10 11:03:00 [update] | 235 | Beginning November 8, 2015, the Garden Grill in the Land pavilion at Epcot will begin offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All three meals will feature characters. - 2015-07-28 10:07:07 [update] | 241 | Guests attending the 2015 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival can explore the World Showcase in a new way with Remy's Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Interactive Game. Game packs including maps and stickers are available for purchase for $9.95 each at the Festival Center, Port of Entry, Pin Central, Disney Traders, and the International Gateway. Guests use the map to locate ingredients for Remy. When all the ingredients have been identified, guests return their completed maps to Port Of Entry to receive an exclusive pin. - 2015-08-25 11:08:07 [update] | 243 | Hollywood & Vine will host a new character dinner during the holiday season (November 7, 2015 - January 3, 2016). Minnie's Holiday Dine will feature Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy all wearing their holiday outfits. The cost is $52.99 plus tax per adult (ages 10+) and $31.99 per child (ages 3-9). The meal will be one table service credit on the Disney Dining Plan. - 2015-08-06 09:08:49 [update] | 244 | Guests can now make advanced dining reservations (ADR) for breakfast November 1, 2015 - January 23, 2016, at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The menu will be all inclusive and will include a selection of breakfast pastries, and choice of appetizer, entree, and non-alcoholic beverage. The price is $23.99 per adult (ages 10+), and $12.99 per child (ages 3-9). It will be one table service credit on the Disney Dining Plan. Reservations can be made online at www.disneyworld.com/dining or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. - 2015-09-01 10:09:51 [update] | 249 | The expansion/re-theming of Orlando's Downtown Disney/Disney Springs continues with the opening of The BOATHOUSE restaurant. Located in The Landing district (formerly Pleasure Island), the new fine dining establishment focuses on steaks and fresh seafood. Prices are in the Signature Dining range, with appetizers running $15-$20 (not counting a $100 caviar option from the raw bar), entrees range from $20 for their 8-oz burger to over $50 for steaks, plus seafood items like hoisin glazed wahoo and cedar plank salmon priced in between. Desserts run $8-$10. Disney Dining Plan and Disney Dining reservations are not currently available, though ADRs are expected to be possible starting in mid-May. In the meantime, reservations may be available via Open Table (thanks to The Disney Food Blog for that tip). - 2015-04-16 16:04:44 [update] | 250 | Morimoto Asia, the new Pan-Asian restaurant in Downtown Disney, will open on September 30, 2015. Morimoto Asia will be open from 11:30 am to 2:00 am daily and will serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch with dim sum. Reservations can be made via Open Table starting September 16, by calling the restaurant directly beginning September 30, and through the Disney Dining reservations center on November 1, 2015. - 2015-09-08 11:09:41 [update] | 251 | Dockside Margaritas, a waterfront bar at Downtown Disney, will open April 23, 2015. Themed to resemble a "Florida fruit stand in the 1960s" the menu will feature local Florida beer and wine as well as a cocktail menu.
- 2015-04-21 11:04:37 [update] | 254 | AllEars.Net is reporting that the Flying Fish restaurant at Disney's Boardwalk will close for an extensive refurbishment from February 1, 2016 - September 30, 2016. - 2015-08-04 13:08:46 [update] | 255 | Beginnning May 22, 2015, guests can make brunch reservations for May 31 and beyond at Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Offered from 11:30 am - 2:30 pm. The menu will include selections from both the breakfast and dinner buffet menus. - 2015-05-19 08:05:49 [update] | 257 | Narcoossees at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort will begin serving Sunday Brunch on November 22, 2015. Brunch starts with a specialty beverage (cocktail for adults, smoothie for those under 21) along with a shared pastry basket. The menu features your choice of appetizer, entree, and a sampling of desserts. The price is $69 plus tax per adult (ages 10+), $41 per child (ages 3-9). Reservations can be made at www.DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. - 2015-09-22 07:09:53 [update] | 258 | The new Trader Sam's Grog Grotto at Disney's Polynesian Villages Resort is officially open for business! And yes, the popular souvenir tiki mugs are in stock. Be careful what you order - select drink orders can cause special effects! Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace outside offers the same menu, minus the atmospheric hi-jinks. (And a shorter wait!) - 2015-04-28 06:04:11 [update] | 258 | Trader Sam's Grog Grotto at Disney's Polynesian Villages Resort is now open. The location "soft" opened on March 28, 2015. The official opening date is in late April. For now limited merchandise is available but the full food and drink menu is available. - 2015-03-31 10:03:19 [update] | 261 | Our friends at the DisneyFoodBlog.com report that you can now get a Dole Whip at the Sunshine Tree Terrace at the Magic Kingdom. So if the lines are way too long at Aloha Isle, just walk over to Sunshine Tree Terrace for your Dole Whip fix. Sunshine Tree Terrace as the pineapple frosty treat in cups, cones, or floats. - 2015-01-28 09:01:52 [update] | 266 | The 2015 Candlelight Processional will be held nightly in Epcot's America Gardens Theatre from November 27 through December 30, 2015. This re-telling of the Christmas Story features a celebrity narrator accompanied by a full orchestra and choir. First-come, first-served seating is free to all Epcot guests, and dining packages that include guaranteed seating are now available to book by calling 407-WDW-DINE or visiting disneyworld.com/dining. The 2015 participating restaurants are: Biergarten, Coral Reef, Garden Grill (dinner only), La Hacienda de San Angel (dinner only), Les Chefs de France, Nine Dragons, Restaurant Marrakesh, Rose and Crown, San Angel Inn, Teppan Edo, Tokyo Dining, Tutto Italia, and Via Napoli. A partial list of narrators has been announced (subject to change):
| 267 | The Eat to the Beat Concert Series takes place nightly in the America Gardens Theatre during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Showtimes are 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:30 pm. The current line-up (subject to change): David Cook – September 25-27, 2015 Wilson Phillips – September 28-29, 2015 Christopher Cross – September 30-October 1, 2015 Starship – October 2-4, 2015 Smash Mouth – October 5-7, 2015 The Pointer Sisters – October 8-9, 2015 .38 Special – October 10-11, 2015 Rick Springfield – October 12-13, 2015 Sugar Ray – October 14-16, 2015 The S.O.S. Band – October 17-18, 2015 Air Supply – October 19-21, 2015 Fuel – October 22-23, 2015 Tiffany – October 24-25, 2015 Dennis DeYoung – October 26-28, 2015 Jo Dee Messina – October 29-30, 2015 Everclear – October 31-November 1, 2015 Boyz II Men – November 2-4, 2015 Sister Hazel – November 5-6, 2015 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – November 7-9, 2015 Hanson – November 10-12, 2015 Maxi Priest – November 13-14, 2015 Chaka Khan – November 15-16, 2015 - 2015-06-01 11:06:35 [update] | 267 | The 2015 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will be held September 25 - November 16, 2015. This year, a new "Artistry of Wine & Cheese" area will span the bridge between the World Showcase and Future World. Near the Character Spot in Future World, a "Next Eats" area will will feature marketplaces inspired by the ABC show, "The Chew," - Sustainable Chew and The Chew Lab. - 2015-07-14 08:07:19 [update] | 279 | The My Disney Experience mobile app now allows guests to view all PhotoPass photos including dining and attraction photos. Guests can also purchase the Memory Maker digital photo package through the app, find PhotoPass photographers, and link new PhotoPass cards. - 2015-09-01 11:09:27 [update] | 280 | The new "Shop Disney Parks" app allows guests to shop for exclusive Walt Disney World and Disneyland merchandise both in the parks and at home. Online maps allow guests to locate an item in the theme parks or scan an item, purchase it through the app, and have it shipped directly to their home! - 2015-08-25 11:08:22 [update] | 288 | This year's Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, running March 4 through May 17, 2015, is getting some fun new features. There will be 10 new gardens, including a healing-and-health garden, a pepper garden, a Southwest desert garden, a dinosaur-plant garden, and a Shakespeare garden. There will also be 11 outdoor kitchens, including the new Bonitas Botanico Outdoor Kitchen between France and Morocco. Plus new topiaries from "Frozen" and Chip and Dale! Finally, there are special weekend events, including the Spring into Spring Weekend (March 13-17); Art in the Garden Weekend with outdoor art displays (March 27-29); Earth Day Weekend with nature activities for kids and families (April 17-22), Disney's Animal Kingdom specialists (April 17-19), and Florida Fresh Weekend featuring a bounty of edibles and other plants that thrive in Florida (April 24-26). Spring is coming!
- 2015-01-28 09:01:08 [update] | 288 | For the 33rd year, Disney's Night of Joy is returning in 2015 with contemporary Christian music performances in the Magic Kingdom for two nights on September 11 and 12. Artists includes four recent Grammy nominees: MercyMe, For King & Country, Lecrae and Central Florida's Francesca Battistelli. The current line-up is TobyMac, MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Colton Dixon, Big Daddy Weave, Francesca Battistelli, Rend Collective, I Am They and Veridia (Friday, September 11), and Skillet, Lecrae, For King & Country, Mandisa, Matt Maher, Jamie Grace, Capital Kings and Seventh Time Down (Saturday, September 12). Tickets go on sale in the spring -- keep an eye on http://www.nightofjoy.com for all the info! - 2015-01-28 09:01:09 [update] | 288 | Planning to be at Walt Disney World this weekend? Here is where you can celebrate Independence day (from Disney Parks Blog): Magic Kingdom - “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” rockets into the air above Cinderella Castle. This special, fireworks spectacular will be presented two nights in a row, at 9 pm on both July 3 and 4. Epcot – On July 4, enjoy a special concert of great American songs by Voices of Liberty at America Gardens Theater, where they’ll be performing at 12:30 pm, 1:45 pm, and 3 pm. You can also meet Chip ‘n’ Dale in patriotic attire outside The American Adventure, and at 10 p.m. that evening “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” joins the celebration with the addition of a heart-pounding, all-American grand finale. Disney’s Hollywood Studios –The “Coolest Summer Ever” Dance Party leads up to a "Rockin' 4th of July Celebration," as the sky above Disney’s Hollywood Studios ignites in a shower of shimmering light for a pyrotechnic, rock 'n roll road trip across America. The DJ kicks things off at 5:45 pm and keeps the party going until fireworks time at 10:15 pm. - 2015-06-30 11:06:44 [update] | 288 | The Invictus Games, a sporting event for injured military men and women, will be held May 8 - 12, 2016 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. Events include archery, cycling, indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, track and field, triathlon, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, and wheelchair tennis. More than 400 athletes are expected to compete. - 2015-07-14 08:07:25 [update] | 289 | The "Happy HalloWishes" Premium Dessert Party will be offered this fall during Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. Held at the Tomorrowland Terrace, Guests can enjoy a buffet of themed desserts as well as seasonal fruit and cheeses. Guests will also receive sparkling cider and take home a candy-filled souvenir mug. The price is $69 plus tax per adult (ages 10+), and $39 plus tax per child (ages 3-9). Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE. - 2015-08-18 11:08:00 [update] | 289 | Tickets for the 2015 Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party are now on sale. Tickets for the Halloween Party start at $68 per adult (ages 10+), $63 per child (ages 3-9). Tickets for the Christmas Party start at $74 per adult (ages 10+), $69 per child (ages 3-9). Prcie varies by date of event. Tickets can be purchased online at https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/tickets/events/. Advance Purchase, Disney Vacation Club, and Annual Passholder discounts apply to select dates.
- 2015-04-08 09:04:41 [update] | 289 | Dates for the 2015 Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party have been announced. These events are held at the Magic Kingdom after closing and require separate admission. Admission will go on sale in April. (Price and exact date to be announced.) Dates for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party are September 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, and 27, October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, and 31, and November 1, 2015. Dates for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party are November 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29, and December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, and 18, 2015.
- 2015-02-25 14:02:26 [update] | 291 | Disney revealed the first detailed look at Shanghai Disneyland last week. The new theme park is scheduled to open in Spring 2016 and will feature six lands: Adventure Isle, Gardens of Imagination, Mickey Avenue, Tomorrowland, Treasure Cove, and Fantasyland. The resort will have a Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, the Toy Story Hotel, and Disneytown - an entertainment, dining, and shopping district. - 2015-07-20 08:07:25 [update] | 999 | The Disney Parks Moms Panel, an official Disney-sponsored panel made up of both Moms and Dads, is an online resource for guests planning Disney vacations. Panelists answer questions at DisneyParksMomsPanel.com. Applications for the 2016 Panel will begin on September 8, 2015. - 2015-08-25 11:08:07 [update] | 999 | If you purchased the BB-8 Droid at Downtown Disney's Once Upon A Toy store on Force Friday, you likely paid too much. The Droid retails for $149 at most locations, including other Disney stores, but was sold for $199 at Once Upon a Toy during the Force Friday event. Disney will be issuing a $50 refund for those who purchased the Droid at the higher price. - 2015-09-22 07:09:32 [update] | 999 | Beginning at 6:00 am local time on May 22, 2015, both Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World will be open for 24 hours. This event kicks off the "Coolest Summer Ever" celebration. - 2015-03-17 10:03:40 [update] | 999 | Afternoon Tea will be served on select dates in the Crescent Solarium at Disney's Beach Club. Current dates include currently February 11-14, February 18-21, March 24-29, May 5-8, June 16-19, and September 1-5, 2016. Guests can choose from four tea services including one children's service. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE. - 2016-02-08 10:02:08 [update] | 999 | Star Wars Legend and the voice of Yoda, Frank Oz, will make his first appearance at Star Wars Weekends at Disney's Hollywood Studios, June 12-14, 2015. - 2015-04-07 13:04:33 [update] | 999 | A new food booth has opened near Test Track in Epcot. "Taste Track" features gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with fillings like Gruyere & Bacon, Fontina & Tomato Basil, and Canadian Cheddar & Apples. And what goes better with a grilled cheese than Tomato Bisque? Tomato Bisque and Roast Chicken Salad are also available. - 2015-04-10 13:04:07 [update] | 999 | "Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar" is coming to Downtown Disney this Fall. The venue (named after Indiana Jones' frequent pilot) will feature cocktails and small plates. The venue will be located between Paradiso 37 and BOATHOUSE. - 2015-05-13 10:05:13 [update] | 999 | Adventures by Disney has added two new dates to the 2016 schedule on the AmaWaterways Viola - August 4, 2016 and December 15, 2016. The December 15, 2016 sailing will include stops at the Christmas Markets in Budapest and Vienna. - 2015-05-19 08:05:14 [update] | 999 | "A Frozen Holiday Wish" has been extended through January 12, 2015. The show is held nightly at 6:30 pm at the stage in front of Cinderella Castle.
- 2015-01-06 11:01:02 [update] | 999 | Disney parks do not allow the use of "selfie sticks" on attractions. Guests must stow these accessories while on any Walt Disney World attraction. New signs are going up at select attractions where the use of these sticks has been most problematic such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. - 2015-05-26 10:05:54 [update] | 999 | The 2015 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is being held this weekend and runners have already begun to arrive. New Balance has announced two new running shoes inspired by "Steamboat Willie." A stark contrast to the colorful shoes from years past, these shoes are in shades of white, black, and grey. These shoes are only available at runDisney event expos.
- 2015-01-06 11:01:06 [update] | 999 | The My Disney Experience website now includes functionality that allows guests to opt out of receiving MagicBands. This is only available to guests who have at least one MagicBand tlinked to their account. - 2015-07-28 07:07:49 [update] | 999 | The United World Soccer Store opened in Downtown Disney in late July. IIt has previously been a boutique in Destination D.) The store features jerseys, accessories, and apparel from soccer teams around the world. Guests can even customize a jersey with their own name. The store is also the official merchandise location for Orlando City Soccer Club. - 2015-08-04 07:08:06 [update] | 999 | The D23 Expo - Disney's official fan convention - will take place August 14 - 16, 2015, at the Anaheim Convention Center. Featuring booths, forums, the Disney Legends Ceremony, a peek into the Disney Archives, and more, this event is a Disney fans dream. Follow our friends at AllEars.Net for coverage and breaking news! - 2015-08-11 07:08:01 [update] | 999 | Many new attractions and shows will be undergoing refurbishments in the coming months, especially at the Magic Kingdom. Some of the closures will be short, such as Peter Pan's Flight from 11/2/15 - 11/7/15, but some will be more extensive such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad from 4/4/16 - 7/15/16. For a complete list, check out AllEars.Net. - 2015-08-11 07:08:00 [update] |