1923 Main Street: Disney Travel Style Podcast

With summer on the horizon, there are a few things to consider when packing for Walt Disney World in May. Special events and good weather set the tone for a month filled with Disney fashion and style opportunities.

Heading into the Magic: Packing Tips and Style Ideas for a May Disney World Adventure

As the sun climbs higher and the days stretch longer, the weather for May 2024 looks to be on the warm side, which is not unusual. Get ready for daytime highs around 88°F or 31°C and roughly nine hours of daylight. Nighttime lows are quite comfortable, with temperatures expected to be around 72°F or 22°C. While it may well rain during your vacation, at this time no significant rain events are on the radar. So as always, check the seven-day forecast with a local weather station the day before you leave for Walt Disney World to get the most up-to-date weather information.

From a packing perspective, we're definitely starting to get into the warm weather clothes in May. You can put away the need for any jackets or long pants if you've been wondering about that.

If you like to pack or plan outfits for special occasions, then you're in luck because May is chock full of special events and holidays around which you can get a little creative with your Disney vacation fashion and style.

Some key dates to be aware of for Walt Disney World style in May include:

May the Fourth (May 4): Whether you're a Jedi Knight or a loyal Rebel, Star Wars Day is your chance to let your fandom shine. While full-blown costumes are possible and liked by many, Disney bounding offers a stylish alternative to channel your inner galaxy hero.

Cinco De Mayo (May 5): ¡Viva la fiesta! Draw inspiration from the vibrant world of Disney's Coco and The Three Caballeros as you celebrate this festive day with flair.

Mother's Day (May 12): Show some extra love to the leading ladies in your life with coordinating family outfits or matching accessories that symbolize your appreciation and love for mom.

Memorial Day (May 27): Honor the brave with patriotic colors and Disney-themed tributes as you pay homage to the heroes who've paved the way.

And let's not forget a favorite pièce de résistance: National Wine Day (May 25). Raise a glass and toast to the finer things in life with a touch of Disney elegance. From Mickey-shaped wine charms to Minnie-inspired vineyard chic, there's no shortage of ways to sip in style. EPCOT is the place to be for this one as you sip your way around the world.

So, whether you're traversing galaxies on May the Fourth or raising your glass on National Wine Day, let your Disney style be as magical as the memories you'll create. Cheers to a month filled with laughter, adventure and unforgettable moments at the most magical place on earth.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Looking for ways to elevate your Disney t-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies? If you're just throwing them on and heading to the parks, you're missing out. Hear how to take your Disney fashion and style to the next level in a few simple ways.

How to Style Your T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Hoodies and More for a Disney Vacation 

Top Tips to Style Your T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Hoodies and More

There is a huge percentage of Disney travelers that loves to consider their wardrobe for a Walt Disney World or Disneyland vacation. If you take a quick look at social media Disney fan accounts, it doesn't take long to see that Disney fashion tips and tricks is almost as popular a topic as Disney food.

If you love to find new ways to get more from your Disney travel wardrobe, here are a few top tips from fashion stylist Amelia Belobradic on how to style your clothing for your next Disney vacation.

How to Style Disney T-Shirts, Sweatshirts and Hoodies

Many of us simply put on a t-shirt and shorts and head out to the parks or Disney Springs without much thought. But for others, a lot of care and attention goes into put a day's outfit together. 

How many things are there really to consider when putting on a t-shirt?

If you thought (like many of us) that just throwing on a t-shirt or sweatshirt with your favorite shorts and leggings was the only way to go, you're in for a surprise. From colors, to collars, to the sandwich method, Amelia discusses various ways that you can take your Disney travel fashion styling to the next level to really elevate your Disney style.

There's More than One Way to Elevate Your Disney Fashion with a Humble T-Shirt

If you haven't given much thought to what you can do with Disney t-shirt or hoodie to elevate your Disney style, don't worry, you're not alone. In this episode of the Disney Travel Style Podcast, you'll hear several ways that you can have some fun with your Disney style, and that goes for the whole family (including some fun tips for how to outfit your kids!).

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Packing for your Walt Disney World vacation doesn't have to be stressful or overthought. In fact, it can be fun to pick your Disney outfits and clothes to match your vacation plans and what time of year you're traveling to Disney World.

The Ultimate Packing List for Walt Disney World

If you're flying to Walt Disney World, one of the first things to consider is whether you plan to check a large suitcase or simply go with carry-on. Obviously a larger suitcase will give you more space and you can bring more stuff. But is that a wise move even if you have the space?

If you're traveling with kids, then that means you'll have a few more things to pack. If they're old enough to have their own kid-size suitcase, then that can help. Otherwise, you may be to bring a checked bag or two.

Another important factor is whether you plan to stay onsite in a Disney Vacation Club Villa. Having access to a washer/dryer makes it a lot easier to pack light. You can do a quick mid-week wash and you're good to go.

Walt Disney World Packing List: 

Carry-on Suitcase, Packing Light, One Week Stay

Backpack/Extra Bag

Other considerations

We recommend NOT to pack extraneous items like water bottles, portable fans and so on unless certain conditions are met (as covered in the audio episode). These types of items are usually a waste of space as there are plenty of opportunities all around Walt Disney World to keep cool, get fresh cold ice water for free and so on. Avoid any trinkets that take up space and add weight. Many packing lists include far too much of this type of thing and for most travelers, they are simply not necessary. 

How to Pack a Suitcase to Optimize Space

Fold, Roll or Compression Cubes? What's the Best Packing Method?

If you're trying to make the absolute most of the space you have in a suitcase, is rolling your clothes the best way to go? 

Flat folding tends to consume more space, although is does have an advantage for collared shirts. In some cases, a combination of roll and fold will work best. Listen to the full discussion and insights in the podcast episode.

What's Your Favorite Way to Pack for a Walt Disney World Vacation?

Join the conversation and share your best Disney travel packing tips on social media and tag us @1923MainStreet

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Shopping at Walt Disney World is always a fun part of the experience and shopping for clothes at Walt Disney World has never been better than it is right now. We share the best stores to shop for clothes at Walt Disney World.

The Best Clothes Shopping at Disney World (Disney Clothes and Non-Disney Clothes)

Whether you're after Disney official merchandise, or non-Disney fashion, there are many great places to shop. This includes inside Disney Parks, in Disney Resort Hotels and a Disney Springs. 

In this post, we share our top picks for the very best places to shop for clothes at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Deluxe Resort Hotels: Clothing Stores Top Picks

Curiouser Clothiers, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

Located on the ground level inside the lobby of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, Curiouser Clothiers is an upscale boutique shop that offers women's and men's designer resort wear, along with a few Grand Floridian branded items.

BVG (Bayview Gifts), Disney's Contemporary Resort

One of the best Disney hotel shops for clothing, BVG has a fairly large selection of Disney and non-Disney apparel. They often feature new releases of Disney collaboration designer wear from the likes of Lilly Pulitzer and others.

BouTiki, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

BouTiki at the Polynesian has a good selection of resort wear and Disney logo merchandise, along with clothing that features a tropical island theme. 

Disney Parks: Clothing Stores Top Picks

Disney Parks have a number of great shops for Disney clothing. In the past there were also a few good options for non-Disney apparel, but these have slowly been disappearing over the years.

Magic Kingdom 

EPCOT

Hollywood Studios

Animal Kingdom

Disney Springs: Clothing Stores Top Picks

Listen to the podcast episode for a complete and detailed discussion on all of these locations, including a few hidden gems you'll want to know before you shop.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

There's a lot of attention paid to what to wear in the parks at Walt Disney World, but what about the rest of the time on your vacation? 

While some Disney guests do spend most of their time in the parks, there are many who don't. Even if you do make Disney Parks the majority of your time, you probably won't want to wear the same clothes to dinner after a hot and steamy day pounding the pavement in a park.

What to Consider for Non-Park Outfits at Walt Disney World

We call the non-Disney-Parks fashion Disney resort wear. These are the clothes you wear around the resort of Walt Disney World Resort, including your resort hotel, when you're not in the parks.

Obviously for many guests, it's one and the same. They put on one set of clothes each morning and that's what they wear all day, no matter where they go or what they're doing. If that's you, then this post is probably not for you.

But, if you like to dress for the occasion or you simply don't want to be in your sweaty park clothes during a nice table service meal, that's where resort wear considerations come into play (we've covered what to wear in Disney Parks in other episodes and posts).

Top Picks for Walt Disney World Non-Parks Resort Wear

Non-parks resort wear at Walt Disney World allows you to add a little style and flair to your travel wardrobe. While Disney Parks wear really should consider function or form, your Disney resort wear can flip the script and give style the upper hand (of course functional attire is always a wise decision on vacation). 

Unless you're dining at Victoria and Albert's, you probably won't have to consider a specific dress code when packing, but depending on what you plan to do and the time of year of your vacation, it's worth putting a little thought into your attire for outside of the parks.

For men, this can mean a nicer pair of shorts and a button-up collared short sleeve shirt or two. This is a great simple outfit that you can wear just about anywhere and be comfortable and in style at the same time.

For women, a sundress or two, perhaps themed to your resort, will make a perfect addition to your Disney vacation packing list. They're flexible enough for multiple occasions and activities beyond the parks at Walt Disney World.

For example, are you planning to have a cocktail and light dinner at the Enchanted Rose lounge, or an evening meal at California Grill? You might want to pack something resort fashionable for those occasions. Ditch the day-worn park wear and freshen up the vibe for your non-park time. It can make a difference in how you feel and put you at ease during your less hectic off time.

Now, if you're planning to do certain other activities outside of the parks, you will have to plan accordingly for those. For example, horseback riding at Fort Wilderness will require some consideration for what you plan to wear. Also, if you plan to golf or foot golf, then a collared golf shirt with appropriate shoes and bottoms will need to be packed (check the Disney Golf website for the latest clothing guidelines).

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

April is a transition month at Walt Disney World. With spring weather coming into full force and the continuation of the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival there are a few things to consider if you're visiting Walt Disney World in April 

April tends to feel less crowded than March, with Spring Break crowds diminishing. There are no major holidays or events in April that will dramatically affect crowds. While temperatures look like they're getting more consistently warm in April, the spring showers are also more likely to make an appearance.

Weather Forecast for Walt Disney World, April 2024

What should you pack and what should you wear for a Walt Disney World vacation in April? 

Spring is well on its way in April at Walt Disney World that means daytime highs in the 80s and night time lows in the 70s. For April 2024, the long-term forecast looks to be in line with this, with a few 90s in there and a few upper 60s nights. All in all, you probably don't need any cool weather clothing for your April Disney World vacation. So unless you like to wear a light jacket or jeans even when it's warm, you can safely save some valuable packing space and leave those items at home.

What to Pack for an April Disney World Vacation

The long-range forecast for Walt Disney World in April also looks to be surprisingly dry. This is great, but in Florida rain can brew up at any moment, so always check the seven-day weather forecast on the day before you leave for your Walt Disney World vacation to see what the latest forecast says. Use a local weather station for this and not a generic weather app or service. 

Disney Fashion and Style Tips for April

April is a fun season for Disney style. It's definitely starting to lean into summer clothing patterns, so shorts, t-shirts and skater dresses are all fair game.

Amelia loves purple as a color pop for April outfits, while flowers, florals and related fun prints for men and women both work well with both spring themes and the Flower and Garden Festival that is ongoing at EPCOT.

Pool time is in full swing in April at Walt Disney World, so don't forget to pay a little more attention to poolside and pool wear, along with resort wear. Flip flops might not be great for Disney Parks, but you'll want to have them for time around the resort pool.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Wondering what other people are wearing in Disney Parks at Walt Disney World? We share the latest trends in Disney Parks footwear, tops, bottoms and more. What should you wear and what should you avoid wearing? This and more in our Spring Disney Parks fashion report

The Latest Fashion Trends and Styles for Disney Parks

Are Flip Flops Good for Walking the Parks at Walt Disney World?    

What kind of shoes to wear is by far one of the most common questions asked by first-time Disney travelers. We discuss the current trends for comfy footwear in Disney Parks at Walt Disney World, including what to wear and what not to wear.

T-Shirts, Matching Disney Shirts and More Trends in Disney Parks

When it comes to tops to wear in Disney Parks, there are some definite trends for the Spring of 2024. From matching Disney t-shirts, to themed options, we share the latest trends for what to wear at Walt Disney World, park by park.

Jeans, Shorts, Leggings and More: The Best Options for Your Disney Parks Experience

When it comes to bottoms, there is a wider range of styles being worn in Disney Parks in Spring 2024, compared to what you'll find with footwear and tops. From jeans, to shorts, to leggings, the top trends right now will help you decide what may be best for your Disney Parks style in 2024.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

While Easter is not celebrated at Walt Disney World in the same way as Christmas or Halloween, there is still a lot of Easter fanfare to discover. Unique Easter character greetings, Easter festivities and what to wear during the Easter season at Disney World.

Walt Disney World is More than Just Easter Egg Displays

From elaborate Easter Egg displays in the lobbies of Disney hotels -- including the Grand Floridian, Beach Club and Contemporary Resorts -- to the Easter Cottage at the Grand Floridian and more, the Easter atmosphere at Disney World is on full display. 

But it's not only about Easter treats and decorated Easter eggs, Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny are special characters who make a special appearance around Easter. So this is one rare photo opp worth seeking out.

If you are visiting during Easter weekend, then you may catch the Easter parade in Magic Kingdom Park. If an Easter egg hunt is what you seek, then the Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt may be of interest to you. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort has also been known to host an Easter Egg hunt for guests.

Dressing for Easter at Disney World

To get into the Easter spirit at Walt Disney World, it's always fun and festive to dress for the occasion.

Our resident stylist Amelia shares her thoughts on how to style a wardrobe for Easter at Walt Disney World, from pastels to Dapper Dans, the discussion takes an interesting turn. Listen to fun and festive episode for all details and recommendations. 

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

St. Patrick's Day at Walt Disney World is a fun celebration. From food to festivities and fashion, Disney does a great job of celebrating the Irish spirit every March. We share our top picks for food, plus the best places to be and what to wear to join in the fun.

What to Wear, Where to Go and What to Eat for St. Patrick's Day at Walt Disney World

The Best Things to Do For St. Patrick's Day at Disney World

While St. Patrick's Day officially falls on Sunday, March 17 in 2024, the festivities at Disney World are already under way and many of the Disney treats and drinks extend to the end of March. So even if you won't be there on the exact day, there are still opportunities to enjoy the spirit of the celebration.

Top Picks for St. Patrick's Day Food at Walt Disney World

You can find specialty food items for St. Patrick's Day across much of Walt Disney World. Disney Springs the Disney resort hotels are your best bet for St. Patrick's Day specialty food items.

For 2024, our top foodie pick from what's new for Disney's St. Patrick's Day food is found at Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Head to this quick service dining spot and get your hands on the Irish Cream Cheesecake. Not only is this a photo-worthy dessert (featuring the Grand Floridian's trademark logo on top), but it's also a delicious Bailey's Irish Cream Cheesecake with Chantilly cream and gold "coins," which are edible of course. This is a true pot of gold and our top pick for St. Patrick's Day 2024.

You'll find more St. Patrick's Day treats at Beaches and Cream (Shamrock Shake anyone?), Roaring Fork and more Disney hotel establishments.

Disney Springs is the best all-in-one spot for St. Patrick's Day specialty treats. Start at Amorette's Patisserie, the Ganachery and Ghirardelli for sweet treats and don't forget the City Works Eatery and Pour House for a St. Patrick's Day cocktail and D-Luxe Burger for another shake. 

This is only scratching the surface, so come hungry and enjoy a little spirit of the Irish!

Where to Go to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Walt Disney World

As you can tell from the food offerings, Disney Springs is party central for St. Patrick's Day festivities. From food, to fun to decorations and festivities, if you really want to get into the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, then head to Disney Springs.

Raglan Road is extremely popular on St. Patrick's Day. If you're hoping to walk up and grab a seat inside, you'll likely be disappointed. However, they do have patio space available usually and while it's very busy it is possible to find a place if you come early (as in the afternoon) or if you don't mind waiting. 

But it's not the only game in town. 

The Best Park at Walt Disney World for St. Patrick's Day Celebrations

If you want to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in a Disney World park, Disney's Hollywood Studios is the place to be. In past years the fun has begun outside of the gates, with upbeat humor and a live host ringing in St. Patrick's Day.

EPCOT is another good park option for St. Patrick's Day, particularly in World Showcase around the U.K. pavilion area.

What to Wear to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Walt Disney World

If you really want to get into the spirit of St. Patrick's Day at Walt Disney World by dressing for the occasion, you won't be alone. Wearing any sort of green is a good bet if you don't want to go all out. But if you do like to dress for the occasion, you won't be alone. 

At Disney Springs you'll see lots of St. Paddy's day accessories, from hats, to shamrock necklaces and more. So this is a great place to go if you want to dress up for St. Patrick's Day and feel like you're part of a big Disney Irish party. 

The same goes for Disney's Hollywood Studios. You'll see plenty of St. Paddy's Day revelers there as well.

Plus, with the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival also happening at the same time, Amelia has some great fashion outfit tips for how to combine it all into the perfect and easy-to-pack outfits. Listen to the podcast episode 219 for full details.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

March is a very busy month at Walt Disney World. From Spring Break travelers to the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival and Easter displays popping up at many Disney Resort hotels, it's a fairly crowded and busy time of year. It's also a time of year when the weather can have some dramatic swings. We share our top tips for what to pack and what to wear on your Walt Disney World vacation in March.

What to Pack for a March Disney Vacation 

What should you pack and what should you wear for a Walt Disney World vacation in March? 

March is a shoulder month, where winter meets spring. At Walt Disney World that means anything from daytime highs in the 60s to the 80s. We have experienced it all over the years, but generally March tends to be a pretty good month for weather. This is Central Florida though, so even day-before forecasts can change on a dime.

Weather Forecast for Walt Disney World, March 2024

We recommend that you always check the 7-day weather forecast on the day before you leave for your Walt Disney World vacation. Use a local weather station for this and not a generic weather app or service. 

For 2024, the March forecast for Orlando looks not too bad. Daytime temperatures should be in the mid-70s to low-80s, with nighttime lows in the upper 50s to low 60s. All in all that is pretty pleasant weather for a Disney vacation.

However, it's looking like March 2024 may have a few more chances for rain than is usual for this time of year. So we will account for that in our packing and what to wear recommendations

Know Yourself and Your Family Members

What you wear in March depends on your tolerance. If you can brave the cool mornings in shorts and a t-shirt (when it's upper 50s or lower 60s outside), then you will be good to go for the day, because by 11:00 a.m. it is typically quite warm. This way you won't need to layer up and carry any extra clothing for your park visits. So an hour or two of cool and then you'll be good to go.

If you don't like cool mornings, then a light layer will help to take the edge off for the first couple of hours. After that, it can get quite warm, so you'll have to carry your jacket for the rest of the day. So know your preference (and those of your family members) and you can pack and dress accordingly for Walt Disney World in March.

March 2024 is looking like it will be rainier than usual; so you may want to carry a micro travel umbrella, rain jacket or poncho. Similar to the cold, if you would rather not carry extra gear then you can put up with the rain and you will likely dry off fairly quickly if you get wet. The spring rain is usually not as bad as the summer rain and it's a relatively new occurrence thanks to climate change. Quick drying shorts, shirts, jackets and so on are a great choice at any time of year, including potentially rainy springs like what we expect in March 2024.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

The 17 best food and drink items to try at the 2024 EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival. Plus, tips to style your food to take better food photos (and avoid the dated and overused hand-holding-the-food approach).

Top 17 Picks Foodie Guide: EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival 2024

It may be called the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival but food and drink are becoming an increasingly important part of the show. 

This year's Flower and Garden festival runs from February 28 through May 27, 2024. With over 60 new items on the Flower and Garden menus, we've narrowed the list to share our top picks from everything that's new so that you can find the best food for both stylish social media posts and to enjoy as well. 

Don't forget to pick up a Festival Passport as Garden Graze is back this year. This food stroll features eight dishes from the Outdoor Kitchens and you get your passport stamped after trying each one. Once you've tried at least five, you qualify for an exclusive treat from the Pineapple Promenade.

EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival 2024 Top Food Picks

The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board  

Florida Fresh 

Swirled Showcase 

Northern Bloom 

La Isla Fresca  

Trowel & Trellis

The Citrus Blossom

EPCOT Farmers Feast 

Springtime Menu(Available March 31 through April 27):

Summer Solstice(Available April 28 through May 27):

Jardin de Fiestas 

Primavera Kitchen 

Fleur de Lys 

Funnel Cake

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company 

World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE) 

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

After a long closure, the popular Disney character dining restaurant 1900 Park Fare is finally reopening at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. What to wear when dining there, plus our take on the new Disney Weddings Villains Gowns. Would you wear a black wedding gown?

The "Grand" Reopening of 1900 Park Fare is on April 10 at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

1900 Park Fare is re-opening at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort on April 10, 2024, but it's nothing like it was before as some major changes have taken place. 

The restaurant will be open for breakfast and dinner (no lunch service), with buffet dining at both seatings. One big point of differentiation is that it will be the same character experience at both breakfast and dinner, whereas breakfast and dinner offered different characters in the past.

Who are the Characters You Can See at 1900 Park Fare? 

Aladdin in his Prince Ali look, Cinderella, Mirabel and Tiana in her new look for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. If you're wondering how this peculiar selection of characters ties together, Disney has positioned it as "they celebrate the power of a wish."

New Decor at 1900 Park Fare

1900 Park Fare was in need of a reno, so the refreshed dining room is a good thing. If you are a longtime patron of 1900 Park Fare you'll be glad to know that Big Bertha (the antique organ that is a Grand Floridian original since 1988) is front and centre in the restaurant. 

There is a new mural for the entrance and different decor in the different rooms, including drawings of carousel animals inspired by Alice in Wonderland and The Little Mermaid.

Inthe Main Dining Room there are twelve new portraits created in the impressionist art style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The murals feature different Disney characters as they hope, dream and wish upon a star (or even a magic lamp or a wishing well).

What to Wear to Breakfast or Dinner at the all-new 1900 Park Fare

Whether you go all out or just like to wear something with a subtle tie-in, it's fun to theme your wardrobe to a themed restaurant--especially if you have little ones.

In this episode of the Disney Travel Style Podcast, Amelia shares her advice on to take a Disney Bounding style approach to the all-news 1900 Park Fare character dining at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

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Give Your Disney Wedding a Villainous Touch

In our last episode we discussed the new line of Disney Wedding gowns for 2024 and now Disney has released wedding gowns from the darker side.

Disney Villains Wedding Gowns

The Disney Villains inspired collection from Allure Bridals feature stunning black wedding gowns inspired by Maleficent, Ursula, Jafar and the Evil Queen. All four styles are available starting at $2,000. And yes, you can get them in ivory as well if black is just too much. But we say if you're going to go there...then go all the way!

The Ursula gown features a mermaid silhouette with tonal sparkle beadwork on the bodice. Drawing on the flair for the dramatic that is Ursula’s trademark, this gown has detachable sheer sleeves including ruffled detailing at the cuffs.

If Maleficent is more your style, you can go with a fitted sheath gown in black and green. This gown is truly eye catching, featuring shimmering green velvet and very delicate lace appliques, layered over black organza. The ivory version has chiffon lace accents for a softer touch, but, again, if you're going to go then go all the way.

The Evil Queen from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs comes with linear lace, floral embellishments, beads, and sequins delicately scattered over tulle. The dress features sweetheart neckline leading into a peaked bodice, complemented by truly eye-catching embroidery (which is a trademark of all of these gowns). This gown is rounded out with a wrapped ruffle shawl for an added layer of wicked elegance. The Evil Queen wedding gown is available in black, ivory, or gold. 

Finally, in a unique twist, there is a wedding gown inspired by a male villain: Jafar from Aladdin. This Disney Villain wedding gown features a plunging neckline inspired by Jafar’s trademark collar and it's accentuated by a satin collar. For a sophisticated twist, the bodice is tailored with a nod to menswear (ast Disney puts it) and is paired with lightly puffed full-length sleeves with buttoned cuffs. The Jafar gown is offered in either a subtle ivory or a bold black. 

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired clothing, including t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Wondering how to celebrate Valentine's Day at Walt Disney World? We share the top six ways to celebrate Valentine's Day in style, plus a look at new Disney Parks wedding options and the new Disney Weddings gowns for 2024.

New Disney Wedding Style Options

Disney Weddings has added EPCOT with Spaceship Earth as a backdrop to its list of locations for in-park weddings at Walt Disney World. 

Disney noted that the offering includes enhanced unique lighting displays on Spaceship Earth, choreographed to music and changing color patterns. EPCOT is now available to book for Disney weddings taking place in January 2025 and beyond.

In case you were wondering, Disney in-park weddings offer a lot of potential setups. Pricing will rise into the hundreds of thousands, starting with a standard $40,000 ceremony fee and going up from there. You must use Disney transportation and so on.

Weddings take place two to three hours after park closing. Ever wondered why Magic Kingdom was closing early one day for no apparent reason?

Weddings can involved extravagent seating and couches along Main Street. The reception in from of the castle with tables elegantly designed. An underlit dance floor in front of the castle. Arrive by a trip down Main Street in Cinderella's Carriage and so on.

Disney Wedding Gowns 2024

And if you're mortgaging the house for a Disney Wedding, then you have to have a Disney Princess inspired gown from the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection, right? The 2024 line of Disney bridal gowns was just released and the gowns are, not surprisingly, stunning (and so is the photography being posted on social media by Disney). Sizes are available from 0 to 30 and gowns start at $1,799.

Follow Disney Weddings on Instagram or Facebook if you want to see what all the buzz is about. 

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Top Six Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day in Style at Walt Disney World

How to Surprise Your Special Someone with a Magical Valentine's at Disney World

Spa Treatment for Two

If you are a couple who loves spas (or even if your significant other loves them and you want to make it special), the Grand Floridian Spa at Walt Disney World is a great spa where you can relax and unwind together. To book a treatment you can call a Spa Co-ordinator at (407) 824-3039 for more information on their couples options and other spa services. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride

If you find it romantic to think of experiencing the "World" from high in the sky, head over to Disney Springs where you can board the Aerophile hot air balloon. This is a fun hot air balloon ride that floats 400 feet above the ground, offering great views of Walt Disney World (and beyond) day and night. You likely won't have the balloon to yourself on this one (it holds 30 people in total), but if you time it right you can catch a flight at sunset or during the fireworks displays for a little extra burst of romance and Disney magic. Cost is currently $30.00 per person (DVC and AP discounts may be available).

Disney Springs Shopping Spree

If your Valentine loves to shop, then why not surprise them with a Disney shopping spree at Disney Springs?! Gift your Valentine a gift card (or cash--which might be better for non-Disney shops) and accompany them on a shopping spree tour of Disney Springs! This is a particularly great gift if you don't normally like to spend time shopping, making it extra thoughtful and something your Valentine will truly appreciate it. Plus you have the option of making a day of it with a hot air balloon ride, treats and a romantic dinner!

Romantic Carriage Ride

Is there anything more romantic than a horse-drawn carriage ride? Horse-drawn carriage rides are offered through the wilderness trails of Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and also at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside. There aren't many things more romantic than snuggling up with your special someone in an old fashioned horse-drawn carriage through relaxing natural surroundings. The rides are approximately 25 minutes long and leave from Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness and Boatwright's Dining Hall at Port Orleans. Call Disney Reservations for more information: 407-939-7529.

Romantic Dinner for Two

No romantic Disney vacation together would be complete without at least one extra special dinner for two. While Disney World is known for its fun themed dining and character experiences, it is also home to some first-rate award-winning restaurants, many of which are ideal for a romantic dinner for two. You can choose from very formal experiences such as Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, to more relaxed--yet very elegant--surroundings such as Citrico'sright next door or Narcoossee's, nearby. Other great choices include Via Napoli, Takumi-TeiandMonsieur Paul at EPCOT or The Boathouse at Disney Springs. Pick your personal favorite, or even better, make a surprise choice if you know a particular restaurant they love or want to try. Whatever your tastes, there is a great romantic spot for you somewhere around Walt Disney World. 

Bicycle Built for Two

Finally, for some casual but thoughtful romantic fun, a bicycle built for two is a romantic notion that you can do in a very practical way at Walt Disney World with your Valentine. Rent a surrey bike at Disney's Boardwalk Inn (or several other places around Walt Disney World) and you can enjoy a cozy bike ride side-by-side with your special someone. Riding along the Disney Boardwalk and adjacent area at night amidst the lights and activity of the surrounding area is a particularly romantic experience. Plus, you can enjoy dinner, a drink, dessert or even a nightclub after the ride at The Boardwalk

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobra...

Always the Disney fashionistas, Mickey and Minnie are getting new designer clothes for the opening of Lookout Cay later this year. This story, plus Celebrate Soulfully styles and what to pack for your February 2024 Walt Disney World vacation.

Bahamian fashion designer, Theodore Elyett, styles Mickey and Minnie for their Disney Cruise Lookout Cay Debut

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse turned to Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett for their brand new outfits to celebrate the opening of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. Not surprisingly, the outfits have a distinct Bahamian flair, inspired by the bright and colorful spirit of Junkanoo, which is a Bahamas festival filled with joyous music and vibrant parades.

“The beauty of Mickey and Minnie’s looks are that they are literally ‘Junkanoo Fun in the Sun,’” said Mr. Elyett. “When you talk about the print, pattern, color, texture of Junkanoo, they’ve got that.”

As with just about everything Disney, the details matter. Raffia is a natural material made from the leaves of Raffia palm trees and it's used in The Bahamas to decorate accessories. Eleuthera is known for its pineapples. So if you look close, you'll see that both of these details are found in Mickey and Minnie’s looks. 

It's not just Mickey and Minnie who will receive fresh new styles, Theodore Elyett will also design unique outfits for Donald and Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Chip ‘n’ Dale to wear at Lookout Cay. All of this will debut in the summer of 2024.

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Dress in Style to Celebrate Soulfully at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort

Celebrate Soulfully is on in February to celebrate Black History Month at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. There are so many ways that you can get into the spirit when it comes to your vacation and park style for this event.

If you want to take the musical route, you can take a page from Disney's Soul. Another great inspiration is the 1920s jazz era, which make styles from Tiana and Disney's Princess and the Frog a good fit.

If dressing up for Disney Parks is not your style (meaning you're not likely to be seen taking part in Disney Dapper Days), then a graphic t-shirt featuring a sax, piano or other jazz or soul musical instrument is good way to add a touch of soulful theming to your park style. Even concerts t-shirts from your favorite jazz, soul, blues or other musicians would be a perfect fit.

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What to Wear at Walt Disney World in February

Always check the weather using a local Orlando weather station right before your trip to get the most accurate view of the weather you may have. While rain is hard to predict in Orlando, the temperatures are usually a little more reliable (at least as a good guideline).

If you have a Walt Disney World vacation planned for February, here's what to consider when planning your wardrobe. While Florida weather can vary greatly and change on a moment's notice, February tends to lean towards cooler temperatures and cooler evenings.

With the long-term forecast for February 2024 offering up daytime highs from the upper 50sF to the upper 70sF, it will really depend on when your vacation is taking place. Evening temperatures have an even wider range: from upper 30sF to upper 60sF. These wide swings are typical of transition months, but they can cause you fits when deciding exactly what you need to pack.

While you may still get away with shorts and t-shirts during the day, be sure to pack a light jacket, hoodie or sweatshirt for the evening hours. It can get cool at night, so jeans/pants or leggings are also good to bring along. Rain may also impact your stay. It used to be that rain was a rarity for the winter months in Orlando, but that is no longer the case as the global climate and weather patterns continue to change.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, we that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel Style Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. 

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at 1923 Main Street.

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Who's playing the Garden Rocks Concert Series at EPCOT in 2024, plus important dates for the new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) cabins at Fort Wilderness and top picks from the Valentine's foodie guides at Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

Sneak Peek 2024 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Dates and Music Line-Up

Spring is almost here and on the Walt Disney World festival calendar that means it's nearly time for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

The 2024 festival runs from February 28 through May 27 including topiaries, gardens, food and music.

EPCOT Garden Rocks Concert Series 2024 Line Up

All shows at the America Gardens Theatre (American Adventure Pavilion)

Showtimes: 5:30 p.m. | 6:45 p.m. | 8:00 p.m.

February 28, 29: The Vybe (local cover band)
March 1, 2: Jason Scheff (former frontman with Chicago)
March 3, 4: Richard Marx (Top Hit: Right Here Waiting)
March 5, 6, 7: Evolution Motown (cover band, motown hits)
March 8, 9: Berlin (Top Hit: You Take My Breath Away, from Top Gun)
March 10, 11: Rick Springfield (Top Hit: Jessie's Girl)
March 12, 13, 14: Dian Diaz (pop rock, R&B, Latin, jazz)
March 15, 16: Modern English (New) (Top Hit: I Melt With You)
March 17, 18: Commodores (Top Hits: Easy; Three Times a Lady)
March 19, 20, 21: Foreigners Journey (hits from Foreigner and Journey)
March 22, 23, 24, 25: The Orchestra (former members of ELO)
March 26, 27, 28: The Female Collective (all female cover band)
March 29, 30: Mike DelGuidice (former guitarist/vocalist with Billy Joel)
March 31, April 1: The Pointer Sisters (Top Hits: I'm So Excited; He's So Shy)
April 2, 3, 4: Funkafied (classic funk covers, with horns section)
April 5, 6: Blue October (Top Hit: Hate Me)
April 7, 8: Crowder (New) (David Crowder, Contemporary Christian music)
April 9, 10, 11: The Hooligans (Psychobilly music)
April 12, 13: Jo Dee Messina (Top Hits: Head Carolina, Tails California; My Give a Damn's Busted)
April 14, 15: A Flock of Seagulls (Top Hits: I Ran; Space Age Love Song)
April 16, 17, 18: M-80s (80s rock cover band)
April 19, 20, 21, 22: The Plain White Ts (Top Hit: Hey There Delilah)
April 23, 24, 25: The Champagne Orchestra (local jazz band)
April 26, 27: Starship featuring Mickey Thomas (of Jefferson Starship. Top Hit: We Built this City
April 28, 29: Herman's Hermits featuring Peter Noone (Top Hit: I'm Henry the VIII I Am)
April 30, May 1, 2: Southbound (local country music party band)
May 3: Monsieur Periné (Afro Colombian latin music)
May 4: Raul Acosta and Oro Solido with Magic Juan (Dominican band)
May 5: Raul Acosta and Oro Solido with Luisito Ayala and the Puerto Rican Power Band
May 6: TBA
May 7, 8, 9: Gilly and the Girl (local acoustic duo) 
May 10, 11, 12, 13: Simple Plan (Top Hit: Perfect) 
May 14, 15, 16: Element (vocals and band combined with ASL)
May 17, 18: The Spinners (Top Hits: It's a Shame; Then Came You
May 19, 20: TBA
May 21, 22, 23: Epic Live! (party band)
May 24, 25: Lit (New) (Top Hit: My Own Worst Enemy)
May 26, 27: TBA

Garden Rocks Dining Packages Open February 6

To guarantee priority seating for a show, you can book a dining package at one of seven EPCOT restaurants:

For more information, including pricing and availability, visit DisneyWorld.com. Packages go on sale beginning Feb. 6.

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DVC Cabins at Fort Wilderness Open July 1, 2024

Get ready for a little luxury accommodation magic amid the rustic charm of Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort.

Starting on July 1, 2024, you will have an all-new way to stay in the great outdoors with many of the comforts of “home” in the newest Disney Vacation Club property, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

The new cabins will make a relaxing retreat nestled in the scenic woodlands of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The first loop will open on July 1 with a second loop opening later in the month, and more throughout the year.

Here are some dates to keep in mind before The Cabins begin opening in July:

Whether or not you stay at Fort Wilderness, there are several unique things to do onsite:

Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue

This is the longest-running live show (with good reason) that we have been visiting since the 1970s. Probably the most under-rated or lesser known of the Walt Disney World must-do

Tri-Circle D Ranch  

Whether you are visiting the horses here or taking a relaxing trail ride through the southern pines (recommended), this is another great Fort Wilderness exclusive. 

Outdoor Recreational Activities

Fishing, biking, renting a canoe or kayak, or enjoying the playground facilities...if you need a little time and space to escape the high energy of the parks, Fort Wilderness is a great place to be.

Chip 'n' Dale's Campfire Sing-Along

Another long-running Fort Wilderness tradition, the Chip'n'Dale Campfire Sing-Along is the most laid back way to interact with these two that you'll find anywhere. Plus, you can buy a s'mores kit from the Chuckwagon Snack Bar or bring your own marshmallows and sticks.

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Walt Disney World and Disneyland Valentine's Foodie Guides

Time to feel the love tonight and give the taste buds some tasty attention. Here's this year’s Foodie Guide to Valentine’s Day!

Walt Disney World

Disney Springs 

Amorette's Patisserie(Available Feb. 1 through 17; mobile order available) 

The Ganachery 

Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar(February 1 - 17) 

Vivoli il Gelato <...

Disney's Country Bear Jamboree has a much longer history than many people realize. What's next for the country bears in 2024, plus Disney Imagineering is slowly slipping further away from Walt Disney's approach to park theming.

The Next Chapter in the Long History of Country Bear Jamboree

Country Bear Jamboree will be closing for a complete overhaul on January 27 and will re-open in the summer (no specific month yet) as the all-new Country Bear Musical Jamboree.

As first announced at Destination D23 last summer, the Country Bears will return with a new show that pays tribute to the Opry style shows of Nashville. Disney promises quite a few Easter eggs throughout the show (including a familiar tune), as the bears sing new and reinterpreted Disney songs in different country music genres.

Country Bear Jamboree has a long and interesting history. Walt Disney originally conceived the Country Bears concept in the 1960s to be part of the grandiose Mineral King Ski Resort project in California. This, of course, was never actually built. But the Country Bears idea was revived for Walt Disney World where it became one of the most popular marquee attractions when the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971.

Editorial Rant: Current Disney Imagineers Continue to Stray Further from Walt Disney and Closer to Universal

Of interesting note in the Disney news story is that Disney continues to refer to this area -- including Tiana's Bayou Adventure -- as Frontierland. So, unfortunately, Disney Imagineers are ignoring trademark Disney Parks theming and slipping further towards a Universal type of fragmented-not-too-concerned-with-lands approach to design. I have often said that the current group of Imagineers is among the worst in Walt Disney World history, so hopefully at some point the sloppy Imagineering can be cleaned up and returned to earlier Disney standards.

A lazy Imagineer is not a good Imagineer. So Bob Iger, please take a look at the lack of basic creative spark and ingenuity in your current Disney Imagineering Department.

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Disneyland Lunar New Year Foodie Guide

Top Food Picks from the 2024 Lunar New Year Event at Disney California Adventure

From January 23 to February 18, the Lunar New Year Festival will turn Disney California Adventure Park into a vibrant destination with characters, entertainment, festive décor, merchandise and food.

Whereas Walt Disney World and EPCOT basically phoned it in with a very uninspired food offering for the EPCOT Festival of the Arts, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure have knocked it out of the park with one of the best foodie guides we've seen in awhile.

Lunar New Year Festival Marketplaces

Bamboo Blessings(Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) 

Longevity Noodle Co.(Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)

Lucky 8 Lantern(Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) 

Prosperity Bao & Buns(Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18) 

Red Dragon Spice Traders(Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)

Wrapped with Love(Available Jan. 23 through Feb. 18)

It may not be the biggest EPCOT festival, nor does it have the best options when it comes to food, but the EPCOT Festival of the Arts does have have nicely crafted artistic dishes worth trying and we share our top picks for what to try at the 2024 edition. Plus, a milestone is reached at Tiana's Bayou Adventure with a fine detail worth discussing.

Top Picks Foodie Guide: EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2024

From January 12 through February 19, the EPCOT Festival of the Arts is back to celebrate arts of all kinds, including the culinary art.

With nearly 18 Food Studios and a big presence from Figment that includes a brand new Figment Premium Popcorn Bucket with Rainbow Popcorn, you better come hungry. Here are our top picks from what's new.

The Deconstructed Dish

Food Items:  

Beverages: 

Cuisine Classique

Food Items:

Beverages:  

Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey: Art, Food, and Little Sparks of Magic

Food Items:

Beverages:

The Craftsman’s Courtyard 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Refreshment Outpost

Beverages:

Pastoral Palate 

Food Items:

Beverages:

The Artist’s Table 

Food Items:

Beverages:

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina 

Food Items:

Beverages:

Vibrante & Vívido: Encanto Cocina 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Gourmet Landscapes 

Food Items: 

Beverages: 

Refreshment Port 

Food Items:

Beverages:

What you want to know when planning your 2024 Walt Disney World vacation. While there may not be a brand new marquee ride or attraction launching at Disney World in 2024, there are still several reimagined rides coming your way, plus some returning old favorites and new onsite Disney accommodations.

What's Ahead for Walt Disney World in 2024

Everything You Need to Know for Planning Your 2024 Disney World Vacation

What's New at Walt Disney World? What's Changing? And what could we see at Walt Disney World in 2024 that hasn't yet been announced?

New Rides and Attractions Coming to Walt Disney World in 2024

Two (sort of) new rides are on the way...and possibly a third

All three are not technically new, but rather they are overhauls of existing rides. 

Tiana's Bayou Adventure (previously Splash Mountain)The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure (previously Voyage of the Little Mermaid)Still in question (currently Rock'n'Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith)

Some Old Favorites Return to Walt Disney World in 2024

The Disney Dining Plan is back, Disney World park hopping is back, and the Disney World Park Pass reservation system is gone for some guests. 

Genie+ will undergo some sort of change in order to target the disruptive 7:00 a.m. day-of booking procedure.

Beyond that, we can expect further price increases to continue and even more tweaks as Disney tries to address the fixes they made when things weren't broken.

One big question mark is still the long outstanding re-opening of 1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

Two New Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Resorts will Open at Walt Disney World in 2024

The Polyday Inn (as we call it), aka the new Polynesian Village DVC Tower and the DVC Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground are both scheduled to open at some point in 2024.

We expect the DVC cabins at Fort Wilderness to open first, followed by the new tower at the Disney's Polynesian Village Resort later in 2024.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

As Walt Disney World announces great new additions for 2024 (including a brand new Little Mermaid attraction) they are also implementing policies that put their most loyal customers at the back of the line. 

Walt Disney World's Uneven Treatment of Annual Passholders is a Problem for Some 

Good-to-Go Days are Great for Local Annual Passholders, but all others are out of luck

A lot of changes are coming our way at Walt Disney World in 2024 and depending on where you fit in Walt Disney World's priority queue, these can be good or bad.

Out of State Disney World Annual Passholders Moved to the Back of the Line

Good-To-Go Days Calendar Coming January 11

In 2024, Disney World will allow local annual passholders periods of spontaneity with so-called “good-to-go” days. While this idea is better than nothing for Orlando locals, it's still pretty shameful. Here's how it will work:

Who Do Good-to-Go Days benefit?

 Good-to-Go Days at Walt Disney World are directly aimed at local Walt Disney World annual passholders. It's not quite the unfettered entry that it should be, but it's better than nothing.

Imagine if Airlines Treated Frequent Flyers the way Disney Treats Annual Passholders?

Who Gets Ignored by Disney World Good-to-Go Days?
 
Good-to-Go Days do nothing for the large number of Walt Disney World Annual Passholders who aren't local: those who are out-of-state or international. These are the Annual Passholders more likely to spend thousands of dollars on every visit, with Disney hotel reservations, dining and so on. This is the group of loyal Disney travelers. This group is getting snubbed by Disney as they get nothing. Disney continues its unfortunate tradition of treating some of its highest value guests the worst.

Since this group almost always uses Walt Disney World Annual Passes as part of a Disney Vacation, they should receive the same treatment as Date-Based Ticket holders, as long as the passholders are staying onsite at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel or Villa. This needs to change before Disney alienates even more of the guests who contribute most to its parks and resorts revenue.

Park Hopper is Getting Back to Normal

 On the plus side, Disney Annual Passholders and guests with Park Hopper tickets or passes will once again be able to park hop without waiting until a pre-set afternoon time starting January 9, 2024. Annual Passholders can also visit any park without requiring a Park Pass reservation after 2:00 p.m. (except for Magic Kingdom on a Saturday or Sunday).

The Winners in the Theme Park Reservation Debacle

Anyone who buys date-based standard tickets (typically one-time Walt Disney World visitors) won't need to go through the hassle of making theme park reservations. This is great for infrequent travelers, who continue to get the premier treatment by Walt Disney World. Guests including Disney Vacation Club members with Annual Passes get nothing except all the pains of Disney travel implemented with covid.

Dining Plans Return

If you're a fan of the Disney Dining plan you'll once again have the option to buy one of two offerings: the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan. These plans are great for convenience, but may or may not be good value depending on your eating habits.

What’s New with Dining Plans

For all the Disney foodies out there, dining reservations are open for booking for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels who purchase a vacation package with a Disney dining plan for arrivals in January through early February! Guests can book dining up to 60 days in advance, and as a Disney Resort hotel guest, guests may book dining for their entire length of stay (up to 10 days).

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Princess Ariel is Finally Coming Back to Disney’s Hollywood Studios with an All-New Show

After years of wondering if the Ariel's Animation Courtyard Theater would host a new Little Mermaid show, we now know that “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will debut in the fall of 2024. The show is inspired by the original Walt Disney Animation Studios 1989 classic version of The Little Mermaid. 

Only limited details have been released, but so far we know the show will be a complete overhaul, featuring all-new set pieces, current tech effects and a "bold new design" that captures Ariel’s imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her.

This will, of course, be a musical version featuring “Part of Your World,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and “Kiss the Girl.” 

Theater construction is ongoing and we look forward to hear more about this refreshed attraction.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Major Changes to the Disney Guest Experience, plus are French Fries Disappearing from Walt Disney World?

Walt Disney World Trip Report: Christmas Holidays 2023

The Christmas Holidays vacation experience at Walt Disney World is our favorite time of year to visit. Just back from our most recent stay at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, we have a lot of news to share, including some changes we noticed and some hints of what may be coming in 2024.

Disney Merchandise on Sale

In a major trend reversal, it is suddenly common to see a significant number of items on sale at Walt Disney World shops, most with substantial discounts. We noticed that these are the types of items and prices that would normally have been found only at the Disney Character Warehouse at the Vineland Outlet Mall. This may be Disney's way to upend the scourge of eBay pirates who have had a negative impact  (springs best, Disney avoiding Character Warehouse). Whatever the reason, this is good news for Disney World travelers. 

Disney Travel Tip: Not all items are discounted equally across Walt Disney World Resort. We found that the best variety of items on sale is found at Disney Springs in the Marketplace and World of Disney in particular.

Ride Wait Times

Disney World ride wait times were often twice as long as what was posted, a reversal from our experience over the past year when ride wait times tended to be shorter than what was posted.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

The 2023 edition of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party was better than past years, showing some improvements to an already fun event. There was noticeably more ambiance particularly throughout the entrance experience walk in particular. Food, treats and the cookie stroll continue to be great (a top pick is the gingerbread cake at Golden Oak Outpost -- a hidden gem).

On the downside, there are still long wait times for most rides (so we continue to find Disney's marketing of shorter wait times during these events to be a marketing campaign only--it simply is not the case.

Jollywood Nights Falls Victim to a December Tropical Storm Like Occurrence

Jollywood Nights rained out on December 16, the night we were supposed to attend. It was the right call by Disney given the torrential tropical storm-like rain, but we were never notified by Disney. Travel agents received instant notification (presumably to alert their clients), but as guest who bought tickets directly, we never got any notice at all from Disney that it was cancelled. 

This is a significant oversight by Disney and one they need to correct. On the plus side, they did refund the tickets on that same day, so at least someone was on the ball.

What's Coming for Genie+ in 2024

One Cast Member we spoke with hinted that the new Genie+ may just be the ability of onsite guests to make their first selection the night before. The CM noted that the biggest guest complaint was having to get up at 7:00 a.m., so this would directly address that. We view that as a shortsighted response to the issue by Disney, but it would still be better than the current situation.

We probed on the potential to get rid of Park Passes for Disney Annual Passholders who have an onsite hotel reservation, but did not get a very encouraging response (and not much of an in-depth response at all on that one). 

French Fries are Getting Harder to Find at Walt Disney World

In an alarming trend for some, french fries are quietly disappearing from many Walt Disney World quick service menus. It used to be that they were a staple with burgers in particular as an option. Now, you're far more likely to find chips or nacho chips as the side. This is not for health reasons, but likely to reduce costs and streamline speed of delivery. Disney noted in comments over the past two years that their intention was to find more efficiencies in food service and substituting chips for french fries in many quick service dining locations is just one example of how they go about doing this.

The Aromas of Disney Hotel Lobbies are Fading Away: Are they Gone for Good? 

It's not your imagination, we definitely noticed that the trademark lobby scents associated with many Disney resort hotels are disappearing, or far less obvious. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort has no noticeable scent and this included a distinct lack of any gingerbread smell to accompany the Christmas holiday lobby display. This is a sad change that we hope is not permanent (but believe that it probably is).

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Disneyland Special Events 2024: Dates and Recommendations for your Vacation

The complete guide to every event happening at Disneyland Resort in 2024. With so much going on, does Disneyland top Walt Disney World when it comes to special events?

Pixar Fest 

Pixar Fest is back at Disneyland from April 26 through August 4, 2024, and covers Disneyland Resort theme parks, all hotels and the Downtown Disney District.

The festival features a new daytime parade called Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! and will debut at Disney California Adventure. At Disneyland park, Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular returns with new scenes. 

Disney Festivals and Limited-Time Celebrations

Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park (January 23 - February 18): A tribute to Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean traditions, this event kicks off the Year of the Dragon with Asian-inspired food and drink, décor and Mushu leading the way in Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession.

Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park (February 17 and 24): At the Fantasyland Theatre, the 2024 Celebrate Gospel concerts will be headlined by Marvin Sapp (Feb. 17) and Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Feb. 24). Celebrate Gospel is a tribute to Gospel music featuring artists and choirs from across Southern California.

Anaheim Ducks Days at Disney California Adventure Park (February 22 - 23): Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Anaheim Ducks at Disneyland Resort. This two-day event in Hollywood Land, includes a celebratory cavalcade, fan zone with themed activities and photo opportunities, plus appearances by select current and Ducks players.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (March 1 - April 22): This popular festival serves up foods and drinks, plus cooking demonstrations and family- friendly entertainment inspired by a wide range of California cultures. Soarin’ Over California also returns for a limited time during the festival.

Season of the Force at Disneyland Park (April 5 - June 2): Season of the Force comes to Disneyland with the Hyperspace Mountain makeover along with themed food and drink, merchandise and more. Launching during the celebration are new adventures for Star Tours. Plus, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will offer a new perspective on Disneyland fireworks with galactic music pumping through the spires.

Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort (August 23 - October 31): The Halloween season transforms the resort with fall décor, characters dressed in their Halloween best and attraction makeovers.

Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park (August 23 - November 2): The bonds of family and Mexican traditions of Día de los Muertos are honored through a cultural experience featuring storytelling and music from Pixar’s Coco.

The Holiday Season at Disneyland Resort (Begins November 15): Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure features seasonal overlays on attractions, holiday spectaculars, festive food and drink and wintry décor throughout the resort.

Oogie Boogie Bash 2024

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party returns to Disney California Adventure in 2024. This event includes treat trails, character sightings and special Halloween entertainment. 

2024 Disneyland After Dark Nights and Dates

Disneyland After Dark runs on select nights from January through June. Disneyland park will host four themed events featuring special entertainment, character encounters along with sweet treats and savory snacks. For 2024, there's even a brand new event called Disney Channel Nite.

All Disneyland After Dark events start with a three-hour pre-party mix-in at Disneyland Park from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (parties tend to officially start at 9:00 p.m.). Admission also includes commemorative keepsakes such as a souvenir credential and an event guide map, plus unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken throughout the party.

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite, Disneyland Park 

January 23, 25, 30, 
February 1, 6, 8, 12, 14

Sweethearts’ Nite celebrates love on eight different nights and includes:

A limited number of Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite tickets are pre-sale for Magic Key holders on December 12, 2023 on Disneyland.com. On December 14  tickets will go on sale to the general public and are subject to availability.

Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite, Disneyland Park

March 5 and 7, 2024

This is an all-new, nostalgic celebration highlighting themed offerings from favorite Disney Channel shows across various eras of programming. There will be music, memorable characters, high-energy parties, unique photo opportunities and more. Offerings include:

A limited number of Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite tickets went on pre-sale for Magic Key holders on December 12 on Disneyland.com. On December 14, 2023, tickets go on sale for the general public and are subject to ava...

Two new features at Walt Disney World including appearances by Walt Disney and the Hatbox Ghost. Which of these is a bigger draw and were the implementations up to par?

The Hatbox Ghost is Now Haunting the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World

The Hatbox Ghost has (finally) returned to the Haunted Mansion, but is this incarnation a hit or a miss? 

Where to Find the Hatbox Ghost in the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion

The Hatbox Ghost appears next to the Endless Hallway, in the spot previously occupied by the Donald Duck chair. The ghost appears through a cobalt blue glass-paned door. If you appreciate Disney detail, pay attention to the muddy footprints that mark the Hatbox Ghost's path as he arranges his cart of hatboxes and luggage. The scene is lit by the "moon" and the warm glow of a dim lantern and you will come face-to-face with the Hatbox Ghost from your doom buggy, as he entertains you with his trademark trick of displacing his head from his shoulders to hit hatbox.

To create the perfect ambiance, Disney Imagineers tinkered with the Haunted Mansion lighting and paint both in the queue and inside the mansion.

While the implementation of the Hatbox Ghost in the Magic Kingdom Haunted Mansion isn't quite how it was described at D23 (which is becoming an unfortunate trend), it is still a nice addition to the mansion.

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Walt the Dreamer Statue Unveiled at World Celebration Gardens

In celebration of Walt Disney’s birthday on December 5, EPCOT opened Dreamers Point in the new World Celebration neighborhood.

The area features a brand new statue called "Walt the Dreamer," which will become an instant trademark photo spot. The statue was modelled after Walt Disney as he appeared later in life, specifically around the time when he was dreaming up the overall Florida Project and the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. This is a nice and thoughtful touch.

This new Walt Disney statues is one of many areas to visit within World Celebration Gardens. where guests will be able to relax, unwind, and connect — to EPCOT, to nature and to each other. Each of the gardens connect back to the areas surrounding them, drawing on the original circular hub design plans for EPCOT. Some say it is a confusing and congested design, while others applaud the oasis of shade that will increase as the foliage grows (something that EPCOT desperately needs).

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Most guests think it's all about the parks and resort hotels when it comes to Christmas at Walt Disney World, but Disney Springs can give them all a run for their money (and even top one park as a must-do holiday destination).

Here's why Disney Springs is a top pick for holiday spirit at Walt Disney World (and the fact that it's free for anyone to visit is just a bonus).

The Complete Guide to Disney Springs Christmas 2023

The best things to do at Disney Springs this Christmas holiday season

Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll (Free)

One of the most underrated traditions at Walt Disney World is the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll. For 2023 the Christmas Tree Stroll has 19 Disney- decorated trees with themes from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and Super Heros. For the first time you can interact with six of the Christmas trees with your DIsneyBand+ (aka MagicBand+). Look for a DisneyBand+ icon to know which trees are active. There's also a Christmas tree map adventure. Get a map of the trees from City Works Eatery & Pour House, Crystal Arts, Joffrey's Coffee, The LEGO Store or Planet Hollywood. As you see each tree, match a sticker to the location on the map then bring your map to any of these same locations for a special surprise.

Meet Santa at Once Upon a Toy (Free)

You don't have to pay for a Disney Park to meet a Disney Santa. Santa Claus is at Once Upon a Toy in Disney Springs right up until Christmas Eve, December 24. There is a virtual queue to meet Santa: you cannot just wait in line. Queue spots open daily at 9:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. in the My Disney Experience app. You must be at Disney Springs to enter the queue. One person can do it for everyone in your group (up to a max of 10 people)

Photo Memories of a Disney Christmas

Christmas photos are fun memories, especially when they're Disney vacation Christmas photos. The Disney PhotoPass Studio in the Marketplace at Disney Springs has several holiday-themed Disney virtual backdrops perfect for your Christmas card or however else you want to use them. It can be hit and miss with the photographers here, but it's still worth a try.

Disney Snow falling and Holiday Entertainment (Free)

The magic of snow falling on Walt Disney World does just happen in the parks. As sundown nears, head to the the Town Center tree and keep your eyes on the skies for a little holiday magic. Plus, watch for holiday-themed stilt walkers, rollerblading snowflakes, a Santa Sleigh DJ, and more surprises bringing a festive ambiance throughout all of Disney Springs.

Christmas Holidays Means Festive Food and Drink

There are over 60 places at Disney Springs to eat and drink, including Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar, which is all spruced up for the holidays. So be sure to grab some cheer while visiting Disney Springs!

Christmas Shopping at Disney Springs

Whether you need a gift someone on your list or something special for yourself, you'll find it all at Disney Springs. You can browse for almost anything here, so leave yourself time if Christmas shopping is on your checklist.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Despite the sensationalist reporting by several overly dramatic Disney YouTubers claiming that Disney Jollywood Nights was dead (after only one party), the truth is that Disney has turned things around and it's looking good. This story plus a sneak peak at the upcoming EPCOT Festival of the Arts 2024.

New Details Revealed for EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2024

The 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts runs from January 12 through February 19 and highlights the visual, culinary and performing arts in Disney style. Here's what you can see and do if you plan to be at Walt Disney World for the event.

Performing Arts: Disney on Broadway

Broadway stars are coming to Walt Disney World as the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is back with three daily shows throughout the festival. 

The full lineup of Disney Broadway stars:

Showcase Plaza is also home to live performances daily, featuring musicians, painters and acrobats.

DISNEY ON BROADWAY Dining Packages Go on Sale December 19

If you want priority seating, dining packages are available at eight EPCOT restaurants:

Are You a Foodie? Here's What's Happening for the Culinary Arts

More than 15 Food Studios throughout EPCOT feature tasty food and drink concoctions. For example, the Rainbow Cake with freeze-dried SKITTLES is back at Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey and the Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with parsnip puree, broccolini, baby tomatoes and balsamic glaze at Pastoral Palate is available as a savory choice. The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine highlights sweet and savory offerings in all the colors of the rainbow. 

The EPCOT Festival of the Arts Passport shows exactly where to find everything. Once you collect five stamps, bring the passport to Deco Delights Food Studio to get a free surprise.

Interactive Experiences at the Festival

Animation Academy has a learn to draw a Disney character classes daily at 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. in America Gardens Theatre. You can leave your mark on a large paint-by-numbers mural at Expression Section.

Kid’s Chalk Art takes place on the bridge to World Showcase Plaza daily from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. allowing your ones to create chalk masterpieces (while you get a little break). Plus, there are plenty of photo opps all around the festival area.

Visual Arts and Festival Merchandise

If you're into art, then visiting galleries and meeting the artists who bring creations to life may be right for you. New and returning favorite artists will be part of this year’s lineup, so visit ArtfulEPCOT.com for the latest news.

If you're a Figment fan, you'll be happy to know that Figment is back as the ambassador and takes center stage on festival merch ranging from household items and décor to clothing and more.

Figment’s Brush with the Master’s Scavenger Hunt is back. With this fun journey through World Showcase you'll help Figment learn all about art. Buy a map and stickers at Creations Shop, Port of Entry, or World Traveler. Then search for Figment hiding inside art inspired by famous works at each World Showcase pavilion (hint: just look for the Figment-themed picture frames).

Every time you find Figment, add the corresponding sticker to your map. Once you've completed the journey, return the map to Disney Traders or World Traveler for a special artful keepsake. 

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Our top food and drink picks for what to try at the 2023 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, plus first thoughts on Disney's Jollywood Nights as our predictions come true. Can the Jollywood Nights issues be fixed?

Foodie Guide to EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays 2023: Top Picks and What's New

Bavaria Holiday Kitchen 

Food Items:

Beverages:

American Holiday Table

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen

Food Items: 

Beverages: 

Yukon Holiday Kitchen 

Food Items:

Beverages:

Holiday Sweets & Treats 

Food Items: 

Beverages:

Refreshment Port 

Food Item:

Beverages:

NEW! Swirled Showcase 

Food Items:

Beverages:

NEW! Bubbles & Brine  

Food Items:

Beverages:  

NEW! Wine & Wedge

Food Items: 

Beverages:  

NEW! Char & Chop 

Food Items: 

Beverages: 

Refreshment Outpost

Food Items:

Beverages:...

The trend continues as guests of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will find a wide range of food and drink options like never before. We share our top picks, plus a sneak peak at the Disney World hotel gingerbread displays, including a brand new one for 2023!

Top Picks for Food and Drink at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023

Foodie Guide to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2023

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is back at Magic Kingdom Park from November 9, 2023 through January 1, 2024. 

This year there's an all-new lineup of food and drinks to put you in the Christmas holiday spirit. You can't eat them all, so we highlight our top picks for must-try Christmas Party food and drink.

Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies

Casey's Corner

Cool Ship 

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe

The Friar's Nook

Golden Oak Outpost

Main Street Bakery 

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor 

Sleepy Hollow Refreshments

Storybook Treats

Sunshine Tree Terrace

Outdoor Vending Locations Near Cinderella Castle 

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Gingerbread Displays at Walt Disney World 2023

Back for its 24th year is the Disney’s Grand Floridian life-sized Gingerbread House, from November 8, 2023 to January 1, 2024.

Grand Floridian Gingerbread Menu

Yacht Club Resort Gingerbread

New this year is the Lighthouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This creation was made from the actual blueprints from the lighthouse located outside the resort along Crescen...

Disney After Hours is returning to Walt Disney World in 2024, but is it paid event worth the cost? We share exactly how it works and what you get (and don't get) to help you decide if it's worth the money for you and your family.

Disney After Hours Events Return to Walt Disney World Resort in January 2024

But Whether They're Worth it for You Depends on One Thing

Disney After Hours events coming back to Walt Disney World kicking off on January 10 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, January 11 at Magic Kingdom and February 2 at EPCOT.

These separately ticketed events give you three extra park hours to ride rides, visit attractions, meet characters and snack on a few unlimited free treats. Treats usually include popcorn, Mickey ice cream bars or sandwiches and select drinks (non alcoholic) as specific locations in the park.

Disney positions Disney After Hours as offering shorter wait times to select attractions and character experiences, but it's important to know that that's not always the case. There may be more dates added in 2024, but currently announced dates and prices are as follows.

Disney After Hours Event Dates, Times and Ticket Prices

(Ticket Prices in Brackets are Annual Passholder and DVC discount price)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. 
 
Wednesday, January 10 - $155 ($125)
Wednesday, January 24 - $165 ($135)
Wednesday, February 21 - $175 ($145)
Monday, February 26 - $175 ($145)
Wednesday, March 13 - $165 ($135)
Wednesday, March 20 - $175 ($145)
Wednesday, March 27 - $175 ($145)
Wednesday, April 3 - $175 ($145)
Wednesday, April 10 - $175 ($145)

Magic Kingdom Park: 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Thursday, January 11 - $155 ($125)
Monday, January 15 - $165 ($135)
Monday, January 22 - $165 ($135)
Thursday, February 1 - $165 ($135)
Monday, February 5 - $165 ($135)
Monday, February 12 - $175 ($145)
Thursday, February 29 - $175 ($145)
Monday, March 4 - $175 ($145)
Monday, March 18 - $175 ($145)
Monday, April 8 - $175 ($145)

EPCOT: 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. 

Friday, February 2 - $149 ($119)
Thursday, February 8 - $149 ($119)
Thursday, February 15 - $159 ($129)
Thursday, March 7 - $159 ($129)
Thursday, March 28 - $159 ($129)
Thursday, April 4 - $159 ($129)

If you have a ticket for an event, you can enter that park starting at 7:00 p.m. 

Of special note for the Magic Kingdom:a standby line is planned for TRON during Disney After Hours, meaning there will be no virtual queue (which could have been a time saver, as it was during Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party). For an event of only three hours, this is a significant change. Also, the Enchantment night time show will be added to Disney After Hours events at Magic Kingdom – meaning on event nights, early arrivals will have the opportunity to see both Happily Ever After and Enchantment.

How to Buy Tickets for Disney After Hours Events 2024

If you have a reservation booked at a Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels or Shades of Green you can buy tickets (one week before the general sale) starting November 7 by calling 407-W-Disney. Tickets can be purchased online by everyone starting November 14.

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Newly Updated Disneyland Adventureland Treehouse Opens on November 10, 2023

The Adventureland Treehouse inspired by Disney’s Swiss Family Robinson will open on November 10, 2023 in Disneyland Park. Keep reading for new storyline details from our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering and a new piece of artwork coming to the treehouse!

Within the updated tree, you'll find the mother’s music den, the sons’ nature room and the daughter’s astronomer’s loft. Located on the ground are the kitchen and dining room, plus the father’s art studio featrues hand-drawn sketches and paintings of each room.

As the story goes, the family created an oasis among the trees inspired by nature and using objects found around them. Next to the stairwell is a waterwheel, powered by a nearby brook. The family uses this and a pulley system to get the water they need into their treehouse. This walk-through attraction should be worth exploring when you visit the park and is likely one of the more overlooked attractions generally.

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Disney Skyliner is Closing for Maintenance in January 2024

January 16-21 

January 16-27 

Bus transportation will be available at all Skyliner Resorts when the Skyliner is not operational.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on X, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Disney Jollywood Nights is one of the most anticipated special events at Walt Disney World in recent memory. It's also rare for a park event to be billed as an adult affair. What to expect from Disney Jollywood Nights, including top picks for food, entertainment and more.

Foodie Guide to Brand-New Disney Jollywood Nights

Disney Jollywood Nights kicks off at Disney’s Hollywood Studios November 11 and takes place on 10 nights ending December 20.

This all-new holiday party is an adult-oriented festive event for guests to enjoy, including things like the Holiday Fiesta en la Calle in Commissary Lane. This is a street party with Latin holiday tunes, colorful décor, and plenty of food and drink inspired by Latin holiday traditions. That's just one option. Over at The Hollywood Brown Derby, Jazzy Holidays is the restaurant transformed into a smooth jazz club, playing holiday tunes in a room of festive glitzy decor. You can try craft cocktails or pick something from the party menu of light bites while enjoying the music and ambience of 1920s Hollywood at Christmas. Over at the Tower of Terror there's a Twilight Soirée at The Tip-Top Club in the courtyard of The Hollywood Tower Hotel. A live band will play holiday tunes in jukebox style as you enjoy a fancy cocktail.

And pretty much everywhere in Hollywood Studios, you'll find unique festive treats to eat and drink. And there's plenty of brand new Christmas festive Hollywood-style entertainment too. Disney is encouraging everyone to dress to the nines with their holiday best in old-style Hollywood flair.

The Complete Guide to Disney Jollywood Night Food and Drink Guide: With Top Picks 

Holiday Fiesta en la Calle at ABC Commissary 

Baseline Taphouse 

Dockside Diner

Epic Eats

Fairfax Fare 

Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction 

Market 

PizzeRizzo

Twilight Soirée at The Tip-Top Club 

The Trolley Car Café  

Park Hopping is finally getting back to normal starting in January 2024, but the discrimination against annual passholders continues. Is this a good move by Disney or will a backlash lead to change as the Disney company continues to penalize its most loyal guest.

Park Hopping, Park Passes and more in 2024 at Walt Disney World

Starting on January 9, 2024, if you have Park Hopper on your Disney World park tickets or Annual Pass you will once again be able to park hop whenever you like without waiting until after 2:00 p.m.  

On days when theme park reservations are required for Annual Passholders and certain non-dated tickets, Passholders and guests will be able to take advantage of the updates to Park Hopper access after visiting their first park. For example, if a Passholder has a reservation at EPCOT and enters the park at 9 a.m. for a quick ride or two, they can then head to another park right after.

What Disney is calling “Good-to-go days” will also begin in January (date TBA). These are days when Annual Passholders can visit a Disney World park without needing a theme park reservation (blockout dates will continue to apply like they do today). 

The negative is that Disney continues to discriminate against Annual Passholders who are spending money or DVC points to stay onsite at a Disney World hotel. They should be lifting Park Pass booking requirements for anyone who is staying onsite no matter what kind of ticket they have. This is certainly not making things simpler or easier for Disney's most loyal guests.

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Disneyland's Downtown Disney is Getting New Food Offerings and More

Parkside Market is a new, curated collection of diverse culinary concepts with four new offerings under one roof. It's all part of the expansion on the west end of Downtown Disney. 

Seoul Sisteris a fast-casual eatery serving Korean food based on bibimbap (Korean rice bowls) with a California twist. Executive Chef Kelly Kim will showcase bold Korean flavors through marinated meats, colorful vegetables and savory sauces over rice, noodles or salad, plus appetizers, an Asian-inspired breakfast menu, and hand-crafted drinks.

Sip & Sonder, from founders Amanda-Jane Thomas and Shanita Nicholas, has been recognized as one of the best cafés in L.A. and soon you can enjoy their signature lattes, fresh treats, frozen drinks and Caribbean-inspired bites.

GG’s Chicken Shop was founded by James Beard Award winners Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm, alongside Michelin Star Chef Partner Lee Wolen who will serve a family-friendly menu of chicken sandwiches, salads, and classic sides. The Downtown Disney location will be their first on the West Coast.

second story bar will be an al fresco spot featuring signature craft cocktails and mocktails using local ingredients and artful garnishes. Refreshing selections will include frozen lemonades, frozés, espresso martinis, shareable cocktails and spirit-free drinks.

Also coming to Downtown Disney's west end is a new stage and lawnfor special events, activities, musical entertainment and more. 

Future plans will also bring Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned Chinese restaurant known for its soup dumplings and noodles, plus Mexican cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gayta at Paseo and Centrico. California-Cuban cheese rolls and pastries to come from Porto’s Bakery and Cafe. 

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Shop unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, sweatshirt, hoodies, yoga leggings, dresses, swimwear and more at the Emporium at 1923 Main Street

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

If you plan to attend the EPCOT Candlelight Processional in 2023 (and you should), you’re in for a treat as Disney has put together one of the best line-ups in recent memory.

Who's New and Who's Back for Christmas 2023

The EPCOT Candlelight Processional is a must-see retelling of the Christmas story featuring a celebrity narrator, a huge choir and a 50-piece orchestra. It also has herald trumpeters and the Voices of Liberty vocalists. For 2023, there are nine new celebrity narrators -- one of the most impressive line-ups in years.

2023 EPCOT Candlelight Processional Celebrity Narrators:

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Open October 17

Booking a dining package is one way to guarantee a seat for the show, but you'll still have to line up well over an hour before showtime if you want a great seat. 

Choose from seven EPCOT restaurants for the Candlelight Processional Dining Package, including: 

Walk-up dining package are also available day of the show at the Regal Eagle Smokehouse, but they are very limited and tend to sell out quickly.

If you plan to buy a dining package, there are a few important things that you need to know. We share our best tips in this week’s episode to save you a few unexpected surprises.

Santa is Back at the Odyssey Pavilion

Santa Claus will once again greet guests at the Odyssey pavilion from November 24 through December 24. 

Holiday Kitchens and the Cookie Stroll are also Back

Over 15 Holiday Kitchens will tempt you with dishes that celebrate global holiday cheer. 

The Holiday Cookie Stroll is back. Buy five cookies from any of the cookie stroll locations and get the matching stamp in your festival passport. Once you have five stamps, bring the stamped passport to the Holiday Sweet & Treats Holiday Kitchen and get a free cookie. The stroll runs through December 30.

Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt

The Olaf Holiday Traditions Expedition Scavenger Hunt is a fun way to explore World Showcase. Buy your map and stickers from a festival merchandise kiosk and discover the “tradition” that Olaf found in each pavilion. Whether or not you complete the quest, you can redeem your map at Creations Shop, Disney Traders or World Traveler at International Gateway for a special holiday keepsake (valid until December 30). 

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Another pre-pandemic offering that many thought was gone forever has come back to Walt Disney World. But there is one glaring thing still missing, leaving us wondering if and when this beloved experience will ever return.

Bay Lake Resort Boats are Back (but there's a catch)

Some people thought they'd never come back, but we had faith and believed in what Cast Members were telling us. 

As of this week, you can once again travel across Bay Lake between Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground on the classic original blue flag boat route. 

The blue flat route began operating once again on October 1, but there's a bit of a catch. Here's what you need to know: the blue flag boats will only be available to ride beginning at 3:00 p.m. daily.

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The Villas at Disneyland Hotel are Now Open

Disney Vacation Club has officially opened its 16th property, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel at the Disneyland Resort. This is the fourth tower at the popular hotel.

Each tower at the Disneyland Hotel has a unique name and the new Disney Vacation Club tower is named Discovery (the others are Fantasy, Adventure and Frontier).

There are 344 themed rooms in the 12-floor tower, celebrating the creativity and magic of Walt Disney Animation Studios stories.

In addition to the new Palette Pool, the Palm Breeze Bar will open later this year poolside.

In a bit of a twist compared to pools at some other DVC resorts (like Bay Lake Tower), all Disneyland Hotel guests will be able to enjoy this new area, as well as the other two pool areas and water slides at Disneyland Hotel.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Details are a little fuzzy, but one thing is clear: if Disney doesn't get the guest experience right in all this talk about big expansion plans they risk alienating their existing core group and the 700 million new guests they're targeting.

Disney's Global Parks Expansion Plans Sound Great, But Details are Lacking and there are some Risks 

In the last episode, we discussed the potential future developments for Disneyland and, as if on cue, Bob Iger and Disney executives shared a little more this week about the Disney Company's future park investments around the globe. Here's what we know and what it may mean for you, the Disney traveler.

The Disney Company is working on plans to increase the timing and investments in Parks, Experiences and Products globally. They plan to almost double the spend over the next 10 years to roughly $60 billion, including both American and international parks and Disney Cruise Line (not to mention DVC).

Disney CEO Bob Iger and Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro met with Wall Street analysts and investors at Disney World to discuss how they plan to invest in experiences that leverage the ever-growing library of Disney stories.

Which Disney Stories Will Come to Life?

Not unlike Destination D23, this presentation was a lot of talking with little detail. 

Disney does plan to fuel future growth with stories that haven't had a significant presence in parks. We know that Frozen-themed lands are coming to Hong Kong Disneyland, Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort, and that a Zootopia-themed land is coming to Shanghai Disney Resort. But Disney specifically stated it will explore even more characters and franchises, including some they've never done before.

“We have a wealth of untapped stories to bring to life across our business,” said D’Amaro. “Frozen, one of the most successful and popular animated franchises of all time, could have a presence at the Disneyland Resort. Wakanda has yet to be brought to life. The world of Coco is just waiting to be explored. There’s a lot of storytelling opportunity.”

No Shortage of Park Space for Disney to Build

In a shot likely aimed at Universal, Josh D'Amaro said “We stand alone when it comes to scale and while our scale is impressive, we have no shortage of space or regions of the world in which to tell new stories.”

Disney Parks has over 1,000 acres of land for possible future development to expand theme park space across its existing sites – the equivalent of about seven new Disneyland Parks.

Focusing on Converting Disney Fans into Disney Travelers

For every park visitor today there are 10 other Disney consumers who've never visited a park. So DIsney has a plan to convert those 700 million Disney fans to become park guests. That's a lot of people in Disney Parks.

This sounds great if you're a Disney exec, but could prove to be a nightmare for Disney travelers who sometimes have to navigate parks that are already over crowded. How they do this is critical.

“Ultimately what is most important to us is the relationship that we have with every guest,” said D’Amaro. “Guests can spend a day with us at our Parks, a week with us on a Cruise, or the rest of their lives with us through Disney Vacation Club membership.”

What Disney needs to consider is that every guest includes existing loyal Disney travelers. It will be a balancing act to bring in that many more new visitors, without disrupting the experience for everyone (and that includes convoluted tech processes for just about everything).

Having enough hotel space is critical to making this vision work. While they did not mention hotels, they did talk about Disney Vacation Club (DVC). 

The DVC expansion strategy is currently to have a thousand new "keys" (aka DVC rooms) coming on board by the end of 2024. That's a lot of new DVC members. 

Having every possible guest become a DVC member is clearly a "key" strategy for Disney.

So what does that mean for the future of Disney travel and the management of crowd levels and an overall enjoyable experience? Only time will tell. For now let's focus on the positive fact that somehow somewhere, there will be a new park or parks at Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Is a Third Park featuring Arendelle, Zootopia or Corona Coming to Disneyland, California?

With all the Blue Sky discussion about the potential new lands at Walt Disney World, Disneyland has been quietly moving ahead with plans to add a third park to Disneyland Resort.

As reported by several California media outlets recently, the much-discussed major expansion for Disneyland seems to be one step closer to reality. The city of Anaheim released a major 17,000-page environmental assessment report for the Disneyland Forward project, and while there are a number of issues noted, all signs point to this project moving forward.

Exactly when this might happen isn't clear just yet, but talks of the Peoplemover and Skyway making return appearances are part of the discussion. The land would be built on what is currently a parking lot east of Disneyland, along with surrounding areas. It would also including walking bridges over Harbor Boulevard and Disneyland Drive, to allow guest to move around easier.

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Disneyland Park Just Upped its Game When it Comes to Park Food

River Belle Terrace, Cafe Orleans, and Carnation Café are all serving up new dishes, as well as some non-alcoholic and alcoholic specialty drinks. 

River Belle Terrace

Located near Tarzan's Treehouse in the heart of Frontierland, River Belle Terrace has great riverfront views and features Southern-inspired cuisine. Here's what's new for food and drink

Food Items: 

Drinks: 

Cafe Orleans in New Orleans Square

With French Quarter flair. Cafe Orleans has long been a Disneyland favorite. Here's what new on the drinks menu.

Drinks: 

Carnation Café 

An American comfort food spot on Main Street, U.S.A., Here's what you'll now find at Carnation Café. 

Food Items: 

Drinks: 

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pintere...

There's a lot of hype following the big announcements at this year's Destination D23 Event at Walt Disney World. But what many have missed is that several things have changed since last year's big announcements. So what's real, what can be trusted and what's as clear as mud for the future of Walt Disney World?

The Big News for Disney Parks from Destination D23

We learned as much from what was said as we did from what was not said.

What's Coming to Disney's Magic Kingdom Park

Hatbox Ghost will be back at the Haunted Mansion in November, but not in the way you may think. He will appear "wherever and whenever he pleases," implying that you may or may not see him on the ride and likely not in the same place each time.

Country Bear Jamboree is changing, this time significantly. An all-new show is coming, complete with a whole new act and new songs. The new show will be modeled after the musical revues of Nashville, featuring some of your favorite country bears singing popular Disney hits in a variety of country music styles, including pop country, bluegrass, rockabilly and more. Disney offered a sneak peak by showing the recording session for Bear Necessities, which will be in the new show.

Pirates of the Caribbean is getting new ambiance with the addition of a new tavern near the ride. Remember the Barker Bird who used to chat will guests at the entrance of Pirates of the Caribbean? He will be back and living at the new tavern, chatting it up with guests. Big questions are will this be a reimagining of Tortuga Tavern and will they be selling alcohol?

What's Coming to EPCOT

We know that Moana's Journey of Water is opening on October 16 (including a new location for the Moana meet and greet), but we now know that all of World Celebration will open in December. Yes, the walls are finally coming down. 

Bigger news is that Test Track will be undergoing another complete overhaul and update (still with Chevrolet). No dates as to when it will close and for how long, but it is time for a refresh so this is welcome news. Disney promises the new Test Track will include the best elements from the original version along with new updates that point to a future world for vehicles.

World Showcase Lagoon will be getting a new nighttime show entitled Luminous: The Symphony of Us. It will debut on December 5.

What Will the Future Hold for Walt Disney World Parks?

It got interesting here as they teased new information, but in some cases said less than they said last year. Here's what we know.

Beyond Big Thunder Mountain at Magic Kingdom still appears to be happening, but they did not mention villains or anything else specifically. It still sounds like a new land with significant size and scale and it will include attractions, restaurants, shows and more.

They did say that Dinoland at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park will be reimagined into a new land themed as the tropical Americas (geographically the space between North and South America). This land will land be Encanto themed, which removes Encanto from Beyond Big Thunder, as was hinted at last year. So Encanto Moves from Magic Kingdom to Animal Kingdom. Plus, an Indiana Jones area is likely coming to Animal Kingdom, potentially where Rafiki's Planet Watch is currently located. 

Finally, It's Tough to be a Bug in the Tree of Life is being reimagined as a Zootopia themed attraction/show.

Disney Cruise Line

The seventh ship will be called the Disney Adventure.

The new island stop in the Bahamas on Eleuthera will be called Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

There are big changes coming to the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland. What will be new and what will stay the same? More importantly, what impact with this construction have for your upcoming Disney vacation?

Is the Disneyland Haunted Mansion following the Lead of the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion?

Starting in early 2024, several additions will be built that add to the story of the classic original Haunted Mansion in Disneyland Park.

Exactly what this means in terms of ride closure isn't yet clear, but we do know that most the changes appear to be outside of the ride track itself. Here's what we know right now: changes will include an expanded outdoor queue that is intended to further immerse your wait time with enhanced theming. This is something that the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World implemented many years ago. 

Attention Disney Shoppers: a new Haunted Mansion shop will be added next to the exit area, where currently there are merch carts. Once again, this follows the addition of Memento Mori at Walt Disney World, which was re-imagined from the Yankee Trader shop that was there before. Also, the eerie and stately grounds surrounding the Haunted Mansion will be expanded with a "spirited metamorphosis" to bring the immersive theme to the outdoor space surround the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland. 

In true Disney style, there is the backstory to the Disneyland Haunted Mansion. Local legend suggests that the manor known today as the Haunted Mansion was first built by a prosperous sea captain. To this day, mansion staff faithfully maintains the happy haunting grounds. While this story hasn't been leveraged much so far, the new expanded queue for the Haunted Mansion will tie into these stories, including new gardens inspired by Master Gracey, Madame Leota and the one-eyed cat.

Each of the new gardens will feature unique elements ranging from a water fountain and a gazebo to themed statues and landscaping. You'll even see a new greenhouse where the Haunted Mansion groundskeepers grow their plants. The pet cemetery and horse-drawn funeral hearse will continue to reside on the attraction’s grounds.

Since Madame Leota has always been a Haunted Mansion favorite, Disney plans to expand her presence outside the walls of the Haunted Mansion. This carriage house of the mansion, which belongs to Madame Leota, will become the new standalone shop.

Timing for these enhancements has a lot to do with what's happening next door in New Orleans Square with the Tiana updates. So a transitional space will be added in the form of an park setting with spots to relax and enjoy the ambiance of live entertainment under the shade of new and existing trees.

Finally, Disney is taking the opportunity to improve accessibility in these areas during the construction, including a new elevator exit from the Haunted Mansion for guests with disabilities.

Disney promises to share more information in the coming months, with a hint that the objects found in Leota’s garden will be inspired by her incantation. This sounds very similar to how you can interact with many of the items in the queue of the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion. 

We love the murder mystery hidden among the busts in the Haunted Mansion line at the Magic Kingdom. So, can we expect Disney Imagineers to add a similar unique mystery at Disneyland? Only time will tell.

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Survey Results: Are Disney's Yacht and Beach Clubs less Desirable without Stormalong Bay?

In a survey of 1923 Main Street Disney Travel Podcast listeners following our last episode, the overwhelming majority of respondents said they would not choose to stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort or Disney's Yacht Club Resort when Stormalong Bay is closed.

71.4 % said no, they would not stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort or Disney's Yacht Club Resort when Stormalong Bay is closed.

28.6% said yes, they would still stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort or Disney's Yacht Club Resort when Stormalong Bay is closed.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Stormalong Bay is a big reason why many guests choose Disney's Beach Club Resort or Yacht Club Resort. So when the iconic pools is closed for nearly half a year, would you still choose to stay there? This story plus what's on the menu at Tiana's new Disneyland Restaurant.

Would You Stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort if Stormalong Bay Weren't Available?

A Walt Disney World Pool Closure Alert that's Going to Hurt

Stormalong Bay is closing. From January 2025 through May 2025, Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts will be closed for maintenance. 

During this time, the Tidal, Admiral and Dunes Cove leisure pools will be available, so it won't be a total pool shutdown. However, with the start attraction of the resort closed will this -- and should this -- affect your plans to stay at the resort?

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We Now Know the Menu at Tiana’s Palace, Disneyland Park: Is it worth trying?

The grand opening of Tiana’s Palace over at Disneyland Park is on September 7 and will bring a taste of New Orleans to the park. Located on Orleans Street, Disney is confident this will become an instant hotspot. Let's take a look at the menu to see if we agree.

Gumbo-lovers will have a couple different options to try. The 7 Greens Gumbo is a plant-based option featuring white beans, okra, yams, sweet potatoes, and heirloom rice. Or you can make it the 7 Greens Gumbo with Chicken & Andouille Sausage. There's also the House Gumbo which is a New Orleans staple combining braised chicken, andouille sausage, and heirloom rice into a dish we are curious to try.

If you like a little extra spice, the Cajun Spice Half Chicken is one to try. The chicken is brushed with a house-made chicory BBQ sauce and served with baked macaroni and cheese and coleslaw.

For sandwiches, there's the Muffuletta Sandwich has mortadella, salami, rosemary ham, cheddar, provolone and house-made olive relish on toasted New Orleans sesame seed bread. The Beef Po-boy Sandwich has slow-cooked beef coated with gravy and fully dressed with shredded lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise atop a toasted New Orleans French bread. Both are served with red beans and rice and house-made pickles. 

Gulf Shrimp and Grits are on the menu as well.Grilled and tossed in a Creole sauce, the shrimp are paired with cheesy grits to form a classic dish that is famous in New Orleans.

Side dishes include Buttermilk Cornbread, Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Red Beans & Heirloom Rice, Coleslaw, Cheesy Gritsand plant-basedHeirloom Rice.

Kids meals include a Roasted Chicken Drumstick served with a sweet BBQ sauce and heirloom rice, while the Toasted Ham & Cheese Sandwichis topped with ham and provolone. A classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese is on the menu as well. All three come with a Cuties Mandarin Orange and applesauce with choice of DASANI Water or small lowfat milk.

And finally, yes, there is a House-filled Beignetfeaturing a lemon ice box pie filling topped with lemon glaze for the perfect bite.

For coffee lovers, the Joffrey's Coffee Chicory Cold Brew istopped with sweet cream and there's a Ray Firefly Glow Cube* available with the purchase of a beverage in case you want to light it up. This add-on is a nod to the way Evangeline lights up the night sky.

Finally, on the merchandise front you can to take home a piece of Tiana’s Palace with the Lily Pad and Lotus Cup Ceramic Set (and it even comes with a House-filled Beignet).

*There's a limit of 10 ice cubes per person, per transaction for the Ray Firefly Glow Cube.
 **There's a limit of two sets per person, per transaction for the Lily Pad and Lotus Cup Ceramic Set.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Is the Grand Floridian Orchestra returning to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort? This story plus tips for the Tron Virtual Queue, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and our take on the new DVC building at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort.

Trip Report: Disney's Vero Beach Resort and Walt Disney World Grand Floridian Resort

Every August we do a split-stay Disney trip with three nights Disney's Vero Beach Resort (this year in an oceanfront studio villa) and four nights at Walt Disney World (this year in a two-bedroom Villa at the Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort).

We had 100% success with room requests on this trip and we share our approach for how to get the exact room you want any Disney hotel.

Trams were still not running in every parking lot at Walt Disney World parks, but the good news is that they're coming back to all parks in September 2023.

In this episode, we share our views on the new Disney Vacation Club tower at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. Hear our take on whether this one is a hit or miss for Disney Imagineering.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2023

We have lots of news to share from this year's Halloween party in the Magic Kingdom. Topics we cover in this episode include:

·      The issues with new queuing system to enter Mickey's Not So Scary Holloween Party (and how to avoid them)

·      What's different with how they're handing out candy at trick or treat stations (and whether it's good for you as a guest)

·      What ride wait times were like during the party (and how to maximize your time)

·      And what is still one of the best tips we can offer for anyone attending Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party.

General Tips and Experiences

Don't believe that narrative that Disney World parks are empty. It's not true and we share our first-hand experiences to back it up.

Plus, we cover our experiences and tips for Disney's digital bus sign times and one great way for how to use Disney Gift Cards to really optimize your Walt Disney World vacation.

Restaurant Reviews

On this trip, we tried the new Narcoossee's at the Grand Floridian and the Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Hear our take on both of these Disney restaurants and whether we recommend them

How the Tron Virtual Queue Really Works 

We tested the virtual queue system for Tron on a regular park day and during Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party.

We share how it worked and when we actually got to ride Tron (so you can plan your day around how long it really takes)

News from Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

Is the Grand Floridian Orchestra coming back to the lobby of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort? 

Hear what we learned about this and whether or not the Grand 1 Yacht will be back. 

We spoke to a Grand Floridian front desk Cast Member to see what they had to say.

And finally, the Grand Floridian lobby aroma has changed. Find out what is smells like now.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

The New Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Photo Ops for 2023

Where to find them and where to find some Returning Favorites as Well

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is now scaring things up at Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney PhotoPass photographers have some brand new spooky shots and spots taking place during the event.

New photos include Donald Duck’s mischievous nephews, the Lonesome Ghosts, Maleficent and more. 

Plus many of your favorite Magic Shots are also back this year, including the Headless Horseman and Oogie Boogie. 

Where to Find Disney Photo Ops during Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

and at many of the party character greetings

Some of the coolest Disney photo opportunities with the spookiest ambiance are those that you get in black and white.

The best BxW shots are on Main Street: Walt Disney's classic dancing skeletons and a very spooky misty ambiance mood shot with bats and large moon. This one would make the perfect portrait.

Favorite shots: bubbling cauldron (near the gardens by Casey's Corner and The Plaza Restaurant)

Favorites New shots: fall TinkerBell in your hand at the park entrance (past the train station)

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Disney Vacation Planning Just Got a Little Easier

Maybe it should have been there from the very start, but after years of having to jump through hoops with Disney World and Disneyland vacation planning, Disney is finally implementing a change that will make trip planning a little easier for guests. This story, plus Disney Aulani news and a Christmas 2023 Disneyland update.

The Big Changes for How You Can Book Your Advanced Dining at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

After many years of frustration that caused guests to jump through hoops and juggle plans around Disney dining, Disney if finally making it much more efficient to book dining reservations. 

The new updates include:

These updates will roll out in phases across the website and iOS and Android platforms.

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Disney Aulani Refurbishment Update: Ka Maka Pool and Grotto

If you're heading to Disney Aulani Hawaii this October, this is important news. The Ka Maka Pool and Grotto, including Ka Maka whirlpool spa, will be closed from October 9 - 28, 2023 for refurbishment. This is a showpiece pool so it will be missed by guests visiting at this time.

Resort pools and water features that will be open include the Waikolohe Pool and Stream, the two water slides, multiple whirlpool spas, Keiki Cove splash zone, and the Wailana Pool. 

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2023 Disneyland Resort Holiday Season Dates and Details Revealed

The Holidays dates for Disneyland Resort this year will be November 10, 2023, through January 7, 2024. 

Here is what's happening including the celebrations, décor, entertainment and more for this year's Christmas and holiday season.

Cultural Celebrations in Disney California Adventure Park with Disney Festival of Holidays

The Disney Festival of Holidays draws inspiration from a wide range of global holiday celebrations, including Christmas, Navidad, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day. 

Enjoy new treats and returning favorite food and beverage items at the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces and get into the spirit of it all with music and dance performances at the Palisades Stage, Sonoma Terrace and for the first time, in the Hollywood Backlot. Plus, you can dance along as Disney and Pixar characters march to the beat of the Holiday Toy Drummers in “Mickey’s Happy Holidays.”

The Sip and Savor Pass is back and offers eight entitlement tabs that can be redeemed for select food and non-alcoholic beverages from several marketplaces and participating dining locations in Disney California Adventure. Each Sip and Savor Pass is valid for the entire of Disney Festival of Holidays and can be shared among friends and family, so your whole group can sample dishes together this season.

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is back at the Paradise Gardens Park for its 10th season. This year, you can taste your way through an all-new menu at Paradise Garden Grill. The Three Caballeros will host a joyous street party, featuring Mexican folklórico dancers and mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers and percussionists, giant mojiganga puppets and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their holiday best. Additional festivities in this area will include live music and dancing, visits with more Disney characters and special appearances by Mirabel from Encanto.

Festive Décor and Attractions Across Disneyland Resort

Anchored by Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, adorned with icicles and snow-capped turrets as a must see, also be sure to visit the oversize gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. If you like Christmas trees with uniquely themed ornaments, there will be plenty to see in both parks, Downtown Disney District, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Disneyland Hotel. And since it's the Christmas holiday season, you may just see a little Disney magic “snow” falling nightly in select areas of Disneyland park.

And that's not all: ornaments, lights and more will also embellish favorite attractions that get a special holiday overlay. In Disneyland, you'll be serenaded with choruses of jolly tunes on the wintry waterway of “it’s a small world” Holiday, and Jack Skellington redecorates the Haunted Mansion as usual, transforming it into the frightfully festive Haunted Mansion Holiday -- this year with a new haunted gingerbread house. In Disney California Adventure, Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, both offer up seasonal spins for the “haul-idays.”

Delight in Seasonal Spectaculars and Holiday Entertainment

For festive photos, watch for Mickey Mouse and friends with all-new holiday outfits in Disneyland park, putting a spin on the classic red and green with midcentury modern-inspired looks. Plus, Santa Claus will be there too and available to pose for jolly photos around Disneyland Resort through December 24.

For merry entertainment, Disneyland Park offers “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” starring characters from Frozen, Toy Story and more. In the evening, watch for the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” nighttime spectacular, which will light up the night sky with fireworks and sprinklings of snow. 

At Disney California Adventure, World of Color – Season of Light will fill Paradise Bay with the holiday spirit as hundreds of fountains illustrate warm moments from Disney animated films.

Downtown Disney isn't just for holiday shopping, you can also groove to a variety of seasonal live musical performances on select evenings at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel will also have live entertainment on select nights.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Tw...

Heading to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party in 2023? If yes, you're in luck as this promises the best year ever when it comes to specialty foods. Our complete guide on what to try, plus our take on the recently reopened Trail's End and Crockett's Tavern at Fort Wilderness.

The Must Eat Items at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

This is one of the best years ever for foodies at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

For 2023 Disney culinary has created 30 specialty treats and 27 of them are brand new this year! 

Here is the full menu and our top picks for what you must try.

Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies(Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) 

Cheshire Café 

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

The Friar’s Nook(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Golden Oak Outpost

Liberty Square Market(Available regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

Main Street Bakery

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

Sleepy Hollow(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Storybook Treats(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Sunshine Tree Terrace(Available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Churro Cart near Cinderella Castle 

Outdoor Vending Cart near The Haunted Mansion(Available during Halloween Party only)

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Trail’s End Restaurant and Crockett’s Tavern Have Reopened at Fort Wilderness and We are Pleased with the Result

The walls at EPCOT have been there for so long that we forget what it was like to wander freely without them. But that will be coming to an end soon. So what will it be like when the walls come down at EPCOT? This story and more Disney travel news.

Here's What Will Happen When the Walls Come Down at EPCOT

EPCOT will be the center of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World and when the walls come down around September 22, here's what you'll find. Was it all worth the wait and inconvenience?

Take a photo with the new platinum Mickey Mouse sculpture in World Celebration, with Spaceship Earth as the backdrop. 

See the new mural at the heart of World Celebration and try to find as many Disney characters as you can (there are, of course, 100 of them). The large mural will be located along the walkway to World Showcase and will feature favorite Disney characters hidden throughout the various neighborhoods of EPCOT. The rest of World Celebration will also be decked out in Disney100 platinum banners and décor.

Meet and greet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their platinum best in the Imagination! pavilion. Also, Spaceship Earth will light up each night with special colors and lights accompanied by the Disney100 anthem, a unique rendition of When You Wish Upon a Star.

The Disney100 celebration will have four limited-time food and beverage locations during both the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays! 

If you collect Disney popcorn buckets, there's a new purple metallic Mickey Balloon Premium Popcorn Bucket available only at EPCOT during Disney100.

All of the Disney100 celebrations will have a limited time run from September 22 to December 31, 2023. 

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New ‘Disney Junior & Friends Playdate’ Event Coming to Disneyland Resort August 18-20

“Disney Junior & Friends Playdate,” is a three-day event celebrating the stories of Disney Junior’s hit series created for preschoolers and their families at Disney California Adventure park on Friday, August 18, and at Downtown Disney on Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20.  

August 18 at Disney California Adventure park will feature:

Downtown Disney on Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20:

Throughout the weekend, there will also be scavenger hunt featuring Disney Junior-themed clues around Disney California Adventure park on Friday and Downtown Disney on Saturday and Sunday.

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Filling the Fantasmic Void in Disneyland Park

Jambalaya Jazz has taken their show to a river barge to fill the void left by Fantasmic. Queenie anchors the band for a New Orleans-inspired jazz show to add a little magic to evenings along Rivers of America.  

Queenie and the Jambalaya Jazz Band perform a musical tribute to New Orleans each evening on a themed raft as they float down the Rivers of America. There are three shows nightly starting at 7:35 p.m. Check the Disneyland app for show times and details. 

Disney will also be adding more entertainment soon to New Orleans Square.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

It's Time for Our Annual Review of the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Foodie Guide

For 2023 there are a total of 32 new food dishes to try and 42 new beverages options to try at the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival. We share the entire menu including our top picks from what's new and top picks from returning favorites.

As a reminder, Emile's Fromage Montage is back and the locations are noted below. This festival food stroll features several cheese dishes from the Global Marketplaces. Pick up a Festival Passport and collect stamps by buying five of these. Once you have at least five you can head over to Shimmering Sips to get a free bonus prize. Shimmering Sips is located on the way to Canada near the Port of Entry.

India 

Food Items:  

Beverages: 

Refreshment Outpost

Food Item: 

Beverages: 

Kenya 

Food Items:

Beverage: 

The Alps 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Germany 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Spain 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Flavors of America 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Greece 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (Morocco)

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Belgium 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

Brazil 

Food Items:

Beverages: 

If you're looking to try the most bizarre food that's available at Walt Disney World, we share where to find the newest strange culinary offerings. Will you dare to try them? Plus where to find the seven newest Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots at Disneyland.

Where to Find the Most Bizarre Food at Walt Disney World 

A Strange New Culinary Adventure is Coming to EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (July 27 - November 18)

There's a very interesting new adventure that is a must try for us...how about you?

Flavorful Fun is Brew-Wing at Odyssey
If you're an adventurous eater, the Brew-Wing Lab at the EPCOT Odyssey is serving up a flavorful adventure, featuring the culinary creations of Muppet Labs.

Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his faithful Muppet Labs assistant, Beaker, will welcome you to their test kitchen where they're busy creating scientific snacks and unique drinks. You can sample some of their interesting concoctions including the Unnecessarily Spicy, Yet Extremely Tasty Scotch Bonnet Pepper-Curry Wings, or the Pickle Milkshake. We can't wait to see the rest of the menu...

Four Brand New Global Marketplaces
Food and Wine already has 25 Global Marketplaces and later this fall the culinary team will add four more to commemorate the Disney100 celebration: Char & Chop, Wine & Wedge, Bubbles & Brine and Swirled Showcase. We'll share more details and dates once they're announced.

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7 New Disneyland Resort Magic Shot Photo Ops with Disney PhotoPass

Balloons (Top Pick) | Location: Disneyland Resort
This shot features iconic Mickey Mouse Balloons and is captured at many locations throughout Disneyland and it's often available with limited-time theming for various celebrations. Right now, the balloons are themed for the Disney100 celebration. Ask a photographer if they're offering this shot at their location.

Cheshire Cat (Top Pick) | Location: Mad Tea Party, Fantasyland
The Cheshire Cat pops in to your PhotoPass photo over at the Mad Tea Party in Fantasyland.  

Huey, Dewey and Louie | Location: Left of the Hyperion Theater in Hollywood Land
Huey, Dewey and Louie appear playfully in front of you.

Violet’s Force Field (Top Pick) | Location: Bridge to Pixar Pier
Located on the bridge to Pixar Pier, this Magic Shot gets the whole family in the frame – and in Violet’s force field! This will be a great shot if the PhotoPass photographer gets it right.

Porg | Location: Millennium Falcon
Have a cute little porg standing on your arm. A classic "look surprised" PhotoPass shot.

Minnie Mouse | Location: Sleeping Beauty Castle & Partners statue
Animated Minnie Mouse sits next to you with the Partners statue in the background.

Buzz Lightyear and Woody | Location: Bridge to Pixar Pier
A shot for the Toy Story fans, Buzz Lightyear and Woody flying into the frame from above and behind.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

The Internet is full of Disney travel "experts" sharing Disney summer travel tips, so which tips are actually worth heeding and which are pure hogwash?

We Searched the Web to Find the Trends in Disney World Summer Travel Tips, What we Found was Eye Opening

We compiled a range of summer travel tips for Walt Disney World to share what we think are actually tips to consider. We are not Orlando locals and we travel to Walt Disney World every summer, usually in August, sometimes in July. We know Orlando summer weather as a tourist. There's a difference here that's often overlooked and that locals don't always understand. 

This podcast is for the Disney traveler because Disney travelers who spend a week in a hotel when they visit will experience Walt Disney World in a way that locals simply do not. So advice from a local is not the same perspective as advice from a vacationing Disney traveler. It's always important to consider the source for any advice or any perspectives on any subject in life.

With that lens in mind, let's look at the most common tips for summer travel at Walt Disney World and discuss which tips are worth considering versus those that are either commons sense for any warm climate or just worth ignoring. 

By the way, we're not naming names or websites about where these tips originated. There is a lot of crossover, but there are some thoughtful and good pieces of advice from some of them (along with many duds or common sense thinking). 

We've assessed all tips using the follow scale: 

The Best and the World of Walt Disney World Summer Travel Tips

Our favorite tips, not often found on these lists:

Tips positioned as Disney World summer tips that are really anytime tips 

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Disney's latest update to Genie+ isn't really big news, but it is a welcome enhancement that may signal more things to come. The good and the bad of this update for the Disney traveler, plus Rogers: The Musical top tips and more Disney travel news.

Update to Disney Genie+ Service at Walt Disney World

In a first baby step towards making Disney Genie+ a little more flexible, you will now have the option to purchase Genie+ for a single-park option or a new multiple-parks option. With this addition prices may be lower at some parks compared to others. Nothing else has changed. What we're all really waiting for is the ability to be able to make Genie+ reservations before the day of your visit. So while this is a welcome change, it is nothing more than a baby step with the hopes of truly bigger news still to come.

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How to Increase Your Odds of Seeing ‘Rogers: The Musical’ at Disney California Adventure Park

Rogers: The Musical kicks off this week at Disney California Adventure Park and runs until August 31. With that in mind, here is the most important news you need to know as a Disney traveler.

Joining the free virtual queue on the Disneyland app is recommended

Rogers: The Musical will have several shows daily, Tuesday through Saturday most weeks during its limited-time run. You can gain access to the viewing areas for the show through a virtual queue system available only through the Disneyland app.

Each performance day, distribution for the complimentary virtual queue will start at 10:30 a.m. PT for the first two shows of the day and it will reopen at 2:00 p.m. PT for the remaining shows each day.

The virtual queue isn't mandatory, but it's highly recommended. If the virtual queue is full, you can check in at the Hyperion Theater before Rogers: The Musical begins to check for any walk-up viewing options.

Dining Package for Rogers: The Musical

Instead of going the virtual queue route, you can try to buy a “Rogers: The Musical” Premium Viewing Experiencepackage for $29 per person from the Studio Catering Co. Truck in Hollywood Land. We say try because quantities are limited per performance. The package includes a “Rogers: The Musical” popcorn bucket with kettle corn and choice of bottled beverage, plus access to lounge seating before the show, priority choice of seating in the theater, a souvenir lanyard and access to a unique photo opportunity. 

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Updates on San Fransokyo Square at Disney California Adventure Park

Starting in mid-July, you'll be able to try some new San Fransokyo food at Lucky Fortune Cookery and the Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería. More dining options and new shopping will open through mid-August.

Here's more about what you'll be able to see and do in San Fransokyo Square.

·       Interact with Hiro and Baymax, who will say hello outside the Hamada Bot Shop. 

·       Near the Hamada Bot Shop will be the San Fransokyo Maker’s Market, a store stocked with apparel, homewares and more featuring Baymax and friends. Be sure to look up to the rafters overhead to find the local battlebot champion, Hiro’s Megabot.

·       Across the way, a vending machine will dispense collectible golden medallions featuring Baymax and other images from San Fransokyo.

A look at some of the new San Fransokyo dining options:

Aunt Cass Café, the second bakery café operated by Hiro’s loving aunt, will serve soups in freshly-baked Boudin sourdough bread bowls and other Japanese-inspired cuisine. Watch for the mural of Aunt Cass’ lucky pet cat, Mochi on the storefront.

An old fishing net tannery across from the café is being converted to Rita’s Turbine Blenders, a giant drink dispenser offering margaritas and cold drinks. The refreshment stand is owned and named after the repair tech who maintains the floating wind turbine (a giant koi fish) that sits atop the structure.

In addition to these locations, there will be new menu items at Cocina Cucamonga and Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop as well. 

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Foodie Guide to Flavors of Florida at Disney Springs

Flavors of Florida take place in Disney Springs from July 1 to August 13 at over 30 locations.

Here is the complete menu guide to Flavors of Florida 2023 at Walt Disney World, including our top picks.

Amorette’s Patisserie  

The BOATHOUSE

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’

Chicken Guy!

City Works Eatery & Pour House

Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar

D-Luxe Burger

Dockside Margaritas

The Edison

Enzo’s Hideaway & Maria & Enzo’s

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew

Walt Disney World is Launching a Brand New Christmas Holiday Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: How Will it Compare to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party?

We share everything you need to know about both Walt Disney World Christmas Holiday Parties, including which one you should attend if you can only attend one.

Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The glitz and glamor of a Hollywood holiday comes to life with sparkling décor, sounds of modern beats over classic holiday songs, craft cocktails and decadent holiday food. Disney Jollywood Nights is a brand new, separately ticketed event that will run for only 10 select nights from November 11 - December 20, 2023, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Disney encourages you to dress in your holiday glam best or festive flair and dance the night away to merry mashups. From unique food and bubbly spirits and cocktails, to selfies with iconic characters Jollywood Nights sounds like a very different ambiance than Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party. Plus, for an extra dose of cheer and a little retro vibe, the party will close each night with the return of the nighttime spectacular, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! featuring Prep and Landing.

What will Happen at Disney’s Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios? 

Entertainment areas inspired by different genres

Selfies and unique holidayphoto opportunities throughout the night

Plus, enjoy after-hours access to some of your favorite rides and coasters under the stars

Indulge in delicious holiday tastes and sips exclusive to the party

Disney Jollywood Nights is a limited-capacity holiday event. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can buy tickets starting June 29. Tickets for all guests go on sale July 6. 

Disney's Jollywood Night Party Dates are:

The Two Big Questions:

1.     How will the in-party limited capacity events work?

2.     What will be happening in Galaxy's Edge?

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How Do You Decide Between the Two Disney World Christmas Parties?

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The Christmas Holiday Magic is Back in Disney's Magic Kingdom Park as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Returns for 2023

On 25 select nights from November 9 - December 22, this separately ticketed event will welcome guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom. Holiday magic includes the Christmas stage show, “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration”, the sparkling spectacular “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” and the merry must-see “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” You can also look forward to you favorite Magic Kingdom rides and attractions, including Tron Lightcycle / Run, which will use a virtual queue during the event.

Tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are limited and can be purchased online beginning July 6. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can begin purchasing tickets as early as June 29 on the Walt Disney World website. 

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023 Dates are:

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Enjoy All That’s Merry and Bright Across Walt Disney World

Looking for more festive and Christmas holiday fun at Walt Disney World Resort?

Another First in Magic Kingdom Park as Frozen Gets Festive

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New Christmas Holiday Disney Cruise Experiences for 2023

2023 Verry Merrytime Cruises

Disney Cruise Line has two brand-new entertainment experiences, plus Disney characters dressed in jolly new looks and fun-filled activities for the whole family.

New Tree Lighting Ceremony

On the first night of all Very Merry...

Top Picks for the Best of Summer Vacation at the Most Magical Place on Earth

Yes, there's heat, the rain and the fun of summer at Disney World. But what's true, what's a myth and what should you do to make your summer stay at Walt Disney World a little more fun?

Top Picks for What to Do at Disney World in the Summer:

·       Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

·       Horseback Riding at Fort Wilderness

·       Kali River Rapids

·       Foot Golf at Golden Oak Golf Course

·       Outdoor patio dining at The Boathouse

·       Private Fireworks Cruise

Remember, when visiting the parks, travel light and the skip the ponchos (you don't want to be a boil-in-bag).

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Disney Floral and Gifts is Shutting Down

As of August 27, 2023, Walt Disney World Resort will closing its floral and gifts operation and transfering it to a new Central Florida third-party vendor. This means you won't be able to add floral, gifts and other in-room hotel amenities to your Disney vacation booking. You can continue to use the Disney service for trips that take place on or before August 26.  

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Changes are Coming to Downtown Disney at Disneyland

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio and Beignets Expressed are Now Open

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen has a new look, a new name and new menu. Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, is described as "a modern, casual and fun celebration of the Gulf and Pacific coasts."

The new all-day menu features long-time favorites plus new selections such as Lobster & Crawfish Sliders, Chile-Spiced Honey Glazed Grilled Salmon, Gumbo LA-LA filled with succulent seafood, the Grilled Open Faced Lobster BLT Po-Boy and the Reef & Beef, an entrée of grilled shrimp and braised short ribs. The contemporary menu pairs with an expanded California wine list and seasonal seaside-style cocktails.

And don't forget the beignets. Beignets Expressed is a counter-service spot serving New Orleans beignets either classically (fried and topped with heaping mounds of powdered sugar) or as specialty glazed beignets, dipped, drizzled, and sprinkled in flavor. Selections include Snickerdoodle, Fruity Crunch and Bananas Foster.

New! Clyde’s Hot Chicken

Clyde’s Hot Chicken is a new food cart located near the Disneyland Monorail station. It serves Nashville hot chicken on a stick, handmade fresh daily and available in three heat levels. If you want the heat, Disney says to try the Hot as Cali with cayenne and habanero spices.

Coming soon to Downtown Disney: The Alley! 

The courtyard next to Splitsville Luxury Lanes is being transformed into a new space — The Alley — with interactive games, live music, lounge areas and seats for dining. It's a spot to relax, play games and enjoy the food and beverage offerings from Splitsville.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

As Disneyland releases full details for its 2023 Halloween celebrations, we discuss which Disney resort is the best when it comes to Halloween. Is Halloween better at Walt Disney World or Disneyland? This story, plus Disney's real-life Soarin' adventure is back.

Disneyland Resort Announces Return of Halloween Time and Plaza de la Familia Sept. 1, Plus 2023 Oogie Boogie Bash Dates

Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort

Halloween Time runs at Disneyland Resort from September 1 through October 31, 2023. 

Seasonal décor and characters in their Halloween best will appear in both parks, along with the Main Street Pumpkin Festival in Disneyland park and Radiator Screams in Disney California Adventure park.

At Disneyland park, Jack Skellington and the crew from The Nightmare Before Christmas will once again appear in the Haunted Mansion. A themed gingerbread house will be displayed in the spooky attraction’s ballroom though Sandy Claws has kept this year’s design a secret.

Every night through October 31, the Halloween Screams nighttime spectacular will summon supernatural projections, special effects and music on Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, Rivers of America and in front of it’s a small world. Fireworks join in on select nights, usually weekends. As a result, Wondrous Journeys is scheduled to make its final performance of the year on August 31.

At Disney California Adventure park, three attractions will undergo seasonal transformations with Halloween spins – and drops. The family-friendly Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree in Cars Land and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters opt for happily hair-raising soundtracks to become Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree and Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween. For the first time, resident “car-acter” Guido will sport a ghoulish “car-stume” as he welcomes guests to the Casa Della Tires.

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! transforms into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark, a scream-worthy adventure to save Groot from creatures running amok in The Collector’s Fortress.

From September 8 through November 1, Disney character-themed pumpkins will be hidden around the Downtown Disney District for Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit; with the purchase of a map from participating locations and you can commemorate your search with a collectible keepsake. Downtown Disney District will also feature fall décor, entertainment and special offerings from select locations.

Plaza de la Familia and Tributes to Día de los Muertos

Honoring the Mexican traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the vibrant Plaza de la Familia cultural experience will bring brilliant marigolds, entertainment and family crafts to Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure park from September 1 to November 2. At Paradise Garden Grill, you can feast on menu items inspired by Mexican cuisine.

Several times per day, A Musical Celebration of Coco will present a talented company of Folklórico dancers, plus Mariachi singers and musicians, that recount Miguel’s adventure to the Land of the Dead. You can also meet Miguel, dance along to Mariachi music, add remembrance notes to the Memory Wall, and more.

Over in Cars Land, Ramone will honor Día de los Muertos at his detailing shop with an “ofrenda” celebrating the town’s good friend, Doc Hudson.

Disneyland park will pay tribute to Día de los Muertos with its traditional, vibrant display in Frontierland, adorned with marigolds and banners of papel picado.

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party will take over Disney California Adventure park for more nights than ever before, bringing rare characters, villains and spellbinding experiences on 25 select evenings between September 5 and October 31, 2023. Kids and trick-or-treaters of all ages are invited to wear Halloween costumes for a wickedly fun evening of attractions (some of which have shorter wait times), themed food and beverages, and more. Admission to the after-hours event also includes entrance to Disney California Adventure park three hours before the party begins and unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the party.

Partygoers can also enjoy special offerings, such as “Mickey’s Trick and Treat” show, the “Frightfully Fun Parade” led by the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow, and the immersive Villains Grove.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public on June 29 (no earlier than 9:00 a.m. PT). On June 27 (no earlier than 9:00 a.m. PT), a limited amount of Oogie Boogie Bash tickets go on pre-sale for Magic Key holders at Disneyland.com/OogieBoogieBash. 

Tickets for Oogie Boogie Bash are limited so don't delay if you want to go. Here are all 25 nights of the Oogie Boogie Bash: 

Tuesday, September 5; 
Thursday, September 7; 
Sunday, September 10; 
Tuesday, September 12; 
Thursday, September 14; 
Sunday, September 17; 
Tuesday, September 19; 
Thursday, September 21; 
Sunday, September 24; 
Tuesday, September 26; 
Thursday, September 28; 
Sunday, October 1; 
Tuesday, October 3; 
Thursday, October 5; 
Sunday, October 8; 
Tuesday, October 10; 
Thursday, October 12; 
Sunday, October 15; 
Tuesday, October  17; 
Thursday, October 19; 
Sunday, October 22; 
Tuesday, October 24; 
Thursday, October 26; 
Sunday, October 29; and 
Tuesday, October 31, Halloween night.

Fall celebrations will be here before we know it, so start getting the autumn outfits and pumpkin spice ready!

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Disney Parks Around The World – A Private Jet Adventure Returning in 2024

Adventures by Disney has announced the return of Disney Parks Around The World – A Private Jet Adventure in 2024, a 24-day worldwide private jet vacation. You will have the chance to experience all 12 Disney Parks and three Disney studios, plus three iconic landmarks in India, Egypt and France. With space limited to 150 Guests across two departures, make sure you secure your client’s spot on this magical carpet ride around the world.The booking cadence will be:

To learn more, visit the Disney Parks Around The World – A Private Jet Adventure landing page for detailed itinerary and pricing information. 

Prices start from $114,995

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also...

There are some exciting new sweet and savoury food options coming to Walt Disney World this summer. We share what to watch for and where to find it. Plus, Disneyland's Pixar Place Hotel is finally getting a full re-theme and there are some great new options coming your way.

What's New for Summer Dining at Walt Disney World

If you're a Disney traveler who always likes to try the latest and greatest that Disney culinary has to offer, then listen up.

Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion at EPCOT has some interesting new dishes to try. New appetizers include the Green Onion and Garlic Canadian Cove Mussels featuring P.E.I Mussels with ramp pistou cream, and broiled ciabatta. The Mushroom Bisque soup combines morel mushrooms, potatoes, and crème fraiche. Finally, there's Jumbo Chilled Shrimp with cocktail sauce and Espelette pepper cream.

There are also two plant-based dishes: 1) Fried Cauliflower combined with Tahini espuma, pine nut brittle, and radishes. 2) Canadian Tourtière: a chickpea and mushroom pie with braised endive, snap peas, stone fruit ketchup, and plant-based demi-glace.

New entrees include the Prime Steak Tartare “Kibbeh Nayeh” with Bulgar wheat, radish, mint, and garlic aïoli, and the Grilled Scallops with caviar, zucchini fritter, patty pan squash, sweety drop pepper, and a creamy piquillo sauce.

Over at the food courts in Disney’s All-Star Resorts, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort, there's a new Korean-style IMPOSSIBLE Burger. It's topped with a Korean-style barbecue sauce and pickled vegetable slaw. These locations also have a plant-based chocolate cake with vanilla buttercream and sprinkles.

At Disney’s Pop Century Resort, the Cuban Burger has ham, pickled pepper relish, provolone, and dijonnaise on a toasted brioche bun. The End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort has a new burger starting June 21 – the Bases Loaded Burger. This one has bacon jam, an onion ring, and beer-cheese sauce on a toasted brioche bun.

Also in the food courts at all All-Star Resorts, the Sweet Summertime Favorites is a dessert version of a summertime classic hot dog and french fries. It has chocolated sugar cookies and raspberry dipping sauce.

Want more Disney sweet treats? Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is offering two new sundaes. The Mickey Sundae is vanilla-chocolate swirl soft-serve topped with mini brownies, Mickey ears, and chocolate décor. The vanilla soft-serve Minnie Sundae has strawberry sauce, Minnie ears, a bow and chocolate décor.

In the Deli at Disney’s BoardWalk you'll find the Strawberry Shortcake Croissant Roll. This is croissant dough with strawberry filling BUT it is only available on weekends.

Gasparilla Island Grill at the Grand Floridian has a Summer Berry Shortcake. It is moist vanilla sponge, blueberry compote, strawberries, and Chantilly. 

Geyser Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has a new summer Margarita Flight featuring black cherry, spicy pineapple, raspberry, and cucumber melon margaritas.

Another new cocktail is at Toledo at Coronado Springs. This is a Smoked Passion Fruit made with Agustín Blázquez Felipe II Solera Reserva Brandy, demerara syrup, passion fruit, smoked cinnamon, and a house-made frozen orange juice cube.

Tamu Tamu in Animal Kingdom Park has a new Pineapple Crisp Sundae, which combines a pineapple crisp cake with vanilla ice cream and is topped with pineapple caramel and crispy streusel topping.

The Fried Chicken Sandwich is returning to Restaurantosaurus in Animal Kingdom. This is a warm brioche bun with crispy fried chicken breast, pickles, lettuce, tomato, and a roasted garlic aïoli. And yes, it comes with fries.

Flame Tree Barbecue also has a returning fan-favorite: the Ribs, Chicken, and Pulled Pork Sampler.

And finally, if you love a good ice cream sandwich, the Dino Dig Ice Cream Sandwich has vanilla ice cream between two house-made sugar cookies with chocolate sprinkles, cookie crumbs, sugar bones, and an cute white chocolate dinosaur. 

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Disneyland's Pixar Place Hotel is Finally Becoming Pixar Themed

Finally, the theming of Disney’s renamed Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort is catching up to its name. 

The hotel’s exterior already has a new look and now the lobby will continue to evolve over the next few months as Pixar imagery is added. 

By winter, the hotel lobby will feature the classic Pixar Lamp playfully balancing atop its ball.

Later this summer, an all-new water play area inspired by Nemo and his friends will open, where Crush the sea turtle goes with the flow atop a 186-foot-long waterslide and Hank can be seen hanging out at the pop-jet splash pad.

Later in the year, a family play court will be added to the pool deck with activities inspired by Pixar’s short films. Interactive games and imaginative free play celebrate favorite friends from “La Luna,” “Bao,” “For the Birds,” and “Burrow.” And when it’s time to relax, Guests may enjoy food and drinks under the love-struck umbrellas from “The Blue Umbrella.”

After dark, the pool deck will become a great spot to watch the Disneyland Park fireworks, or just to lounge by cozy character-inspired fire pits.

In the fall of 2023, the hotel will unveil a new restaurant at the resort: Great Maple. This Southern California-based modern American eatery specializes in playful takes on upscale comfort food. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner all day, the ground-floor restaurant — with an outdoor patio — will be open to Hotel Guests, local diners and theme park visitors.

Signature dishes will include Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Maple Bacon Doughnuts, Cajun Shrimp & Cheddar Biscuit Benedict, and the Soda Pop-Braised Baby Back Ribs! Great Maple will also have a full bar including beer, wine and cocktails.

There will also be food and beverage service at the pool, as well as a new grab ‘n’ go coffee shop and café near the lobby, and eventually at the hotel’s new concierge lounge.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and F...

As predicted, it's the end of the line for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, the ill-fated Disney immersive experience. The three reasons why this failed, plus magical Steamboat Willie at the new Disneyland Hotel DVC tower and a tempting new menu for Hollywood Brown Derby at Hollywood Studios.

As Predicted, Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser is Done

It was doomed to fail before it ever sailed, which we discussed at length most recently in Episodes 163 and 168

We now know the final voyage for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will take place Sept. 28-30, 2023.

While Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was one of our most creative projects Disney has ever implemented at Walt Disney World, there were a number of epic fails that have led to its demise.

·       Bad marketing that pandered to "influencers" and turned off their upscale target guest demographic

·       An immersive experience that wasn't truly immersive, a ban on mobile devices should have been number one

·       Guest accommodations that were not of the stature they should have been. This could have been remedied while staying on theme.

Disney is currently contacting guests who had booked voyages to sort out how they will manage this in the time remaining

All is not lost, however. We shared several ideas for what we believe are workable solutions for this space. So we will see how things evolve over the coming months.

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Steamboat Willie at the Upcoming Villas at Disneyland Hotel

Classic Disney animation is at the heart of the theming for the upcoming Disney Vacation Club property at Disneyland Hotel (opening in September).

As part of this, the new Palette Pool, Palm Breeze Bar, and themed splash pad will incorporate elements from Steamboat Willie.

A large model of the Steamboat Willie boat will be captained by Mickey Mouse as it comes to life with fun water play features. From the boat’s cascading waterfall, misty fog effects rising from the boat’s funnels and the variety of pop jets and fountains, it promises to be an instant classic for your little ones.

Thanks to a little Disney magic, after dark the Steamboat Willie splash pad will transform from black and white to vivid colors with the help of some artistic lighting.

For us older kids, the artist-palette-shaped pool anchored by rainbow glow of multi-colored lounge areas will be a place to relax and unwind.

Drinks and snacks will be available at the Palm Breeze Bar. This outdoor venue will feature modern decor inspired by the imaginative artistry of Disney Legend, Mary Blair (who also worked on it’s a small worldand the murals in the Grand Canyon Concourse at Walt Disney World’s Contemporary Resort Hotel).

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New Seasonal Menu at The Hollywood Brown Derby

Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios recently launched a new seasonal menu. Will this help to elevate this Signature Dining to a level that it has never really reached?

New starters include the Crab Louie, which features crispy olive bread, citrus blend, fried capers and Louie sauce. There's also Shrimp Cocktail topped with shaved fennel cucumbers and a traditional cocktail sauce.

For cheese lovers, the Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad combines shaved onions, Thai basil, gremolata, and a delicious citrus vinaigrette, while the Charcuterie Board features the Chef’s selection of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments.

An Escargot app is accompanied by roasted garlic béchamel and crispy prosciutto and the Roasted Bone Marrow is composed of braised beef, pickled mustard seeds and a fig bread crostini. 

The entrée menu includes a classic Filet Mignon with glazed carrots, potato pave, horseradish cream and a peppercorn sauce. The Lamb Shank comes with summer vegetables, harissa vinaigrette, and nasturtium chermoula.

The new Free-Range Chicken and Dumplings dish features a lemon-ricotta Gnudi, shishito cream, and a gooseberry jus. If pork is your thing, the recently added Grilled Pork comes with a lavender-sage polenta and local corn salsa, complete with a huckleberry barbecue sauce.

On the seafood side, the Sustainable Fish dish has a white bean ragout, derby summer vegetables, and roasted tomato emulsion. The Seafood Cioppino brings together shrimp, sea scallops, seasonal fish, mussels, a toasted baguette and aromatic tomato broth.

Finally, there's even a classic comfort dish in the Shepherd’s Pie. This combines roasted garlic mashed potatoes, mushrooms, peas, corn, and carrot Romesco and it's plant-based.

Disney notes that the Cobb Salad and Grapefruit Cake are both still on the menu.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

A new restaurant is opening at EPCOT, plus we share the top 10 Walt Disney World table service restaurants for Summer 2023 and a look at who's playing at this year's Eat to the Beat music festival at EPCOT.

New Restaurant Coming to the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT

Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya will be a table-service restaurant offering a festive dining experience in a sharable Izakaya-style. It replaces Tokyo Dining and will be located on the second floor of the Japan pavilion.

The theme here is to experience Japan's seasonal festivals, so each month will bring a new celebration to the table. From hanging tanzaku to celebrate Tanabata in July to savoring moon-viewing dumplings in September, a cultural representative from Japan will guide guests through each unique festival experience, one bite at a time. The atmosphere also embraces the festivals of Japan, with the atmosphere featuring beautiful, hand painted artwork and lanterns highlighting some of the natural wonders that Japan offers as well. Each and every visit is designed to create unforgettable memories that capture the spirit of Japan's vibrant seasonal festivities.

In addition to a full menu of sushi and teppan items, there will be an open sushi bar and grill. Sushi lovers will see sushi being made by the chefs when sitting at the sushi bar. 

The menu is designed to appeal to both sushi newbies and sushi aficionados. 

Don't like sushi? Don't worry as the grill will also be serving up specialties commonly found in Japanese cuisine. Among the grilled items to enjoy, Okonomiyaki is a Japanese savory pancake is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and water, and then filled with shredded cabbage and bacon, and topped with tangy okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, aonori, bonito flakes, and pickled ginger.

Welcome to EPCOT, Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya. We hope everyone is as excited as we are for this new location to open its doors this summer!

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Top 10 Picks for Walt Disney World Dining Summer 2023

Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya (EPCOT)

This brand-new dining experience is a must-try.

Takumi Tei (EPCOT)

If you want a fine dining experience, Takumi Tei is a top pick and a great AC relief sheltered from the buzz of the outside world.

Narcoossee's (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort)

Newly reopened, Narcoossee's aims to reclaim its former glory. You make the call.

The Boathouse (Disney Springs)

A staple for any Disney World vacation, The Boathouse shines during the summer months and you have your choice of indoors or outdoors.

Cinderella's Royal Table (Magic Kingdom)

Summertime in the Kingdom; what's not to love? If you want a character experience with great food options, this one is hard to beat.

Le Cellier (EPCOT)

Looking to beat the summer heat? Le Cellier is a perennial classic and a great spot to enjoy an upscale meal.

Topolino's Terrace (Disney's Riviera Resort)

Whether it's the character breakfast or the fine dinner experience, this is a great summer dining location.

California Grill (Disney's Contemporary Resort)

Not only is the food excellent here, but the view from the top of the Contemporary is an added bonus--even when a summer storm is rolling in.

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria (EPCOT)

For a little Italian-style pizza in a courtyard setting, Via Napoli makes a great summertime stop.

Grand Floridian Cafe (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort)

Casual table service dining in an upscale environment, with something for everyone. The perfect pick for summer casual elegance.

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2023 Eat to the Beat Concert Series at EPCOT

The Eat to the Beat Concert Series kicks-off on July 27. Here is a first look at the lineup coming to the America Gardens Theatre at EPCOT!

In addition to the headline acts, local bands will take the stage Tuesday through Thursday. Visit TasteEPCOT.com for more information.

July

28-29 – Orianthi (NEW)
July 30-31 - For King & Country (NEW)

August

4-5 – Southern Avenue
6-7 - Tiffany
11-12 – Ruben Studdard with Haley Reinhart
13-14 – The Bacon Brothers (NEW)
18-21 – Joey Fatone & Friends
25-26 – Ayron Jones (NEW)
27-28 – Phillip Phillips (NEW)

September

1-2 – Baha Men
3-4 – MercyMe
8-9 – Ray Parker Jr.
10-11 - Tobymac
15 – Celebrity Latin Talent
16 – Celebrity Latin Talent
17-18 – Raul Acosta and Oro Solido (NEW)
22-23 – Los Amigos Invisibles
24-25 - 98°

October

29 – October 2 – Boyz II Men
6-7 – Mark Wills
8-9 – Sugar Ray
13-14 - Hoobastank
15-16 – Air Supply
20-21 – Taylor Dayne
22-23 – Billy Ocean
27-30 - Hanson

November

3-4 – We The Kings (NEW)
5-6 – Sheila E.
10-11 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
12-13 – 38 Special

Beginning July 6, you can secure your spot for these performances with an Eat to the Beat Dining Package. Visit TasteEPCOT.com.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Disney just announced major changes for Park Pass, Genie+, Lightning Lane, Disney Dining Plan and more for Walt Disney World 2024. We discuss who wins and who loses among Disney travelers at Walt Disney World in 2024 (and even some good news for right now). Plus, this week we cover what it all means for you, including Guardians of the Galaxy movie tie-ins, new Adventures by Disney options and more from Star Wars, Encanto, Soul and beyond.

2024 is Going to Be a Good Year at Walt Disney World (for most travelers, but not all)

You can start booking 2023 Disney World vacations on May 31, 2023 and there's a lot to look forward to next year. Here's a sneak peek at what to expect:

No More Theme Park Reservations!
As of January 9, 2024, if you have a date-based ticket, you won't need to make theme park reservations.

Annual Passholders will Still Need Park Reservations...but not always.
It gets more complicated for Disney World Annual Passholders. Disney plans to offer what they're calling "good-to-go" days with means AP holders won't need park reservations for select days. This will be in addition to the recent update that offers Passholders the opportunity to visit the theme parks after 2:00 p.m. without needing a park reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. “Good-to-go” days may vary by park, and pass block out dates and capacity limitations continue to apply like they do today. Please stay tuned for more details on “good-to-go” days. This is a step in the right direction for local AP holders, but doesn't help you much at all if you are an out-of-state WDW AP holder who books weekly vacations multiple times a year. It looks like those of us in this boat will be stuck with Park Pass for the foreseeable future.
 
The Disney Dining Plan is Back
Disney dining plans will be coming back as an option for guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels who purchase a vacation package with Disney for stays starting January 9, 2024.

Genie+ Bookings Will Be Bookable in Advance
No details yet, but Disney has announced they're working on allowing us to make Genie+ and Lightning Lane bookings in advance of the day of. It might now be 60 days out like FastPass, but any advance booking potential is a good thing in our view.

Deluxe Resort Room Categories will Be Simplified
To make it easier to book Walt Disney World Deluxe Resort Rooms, there will be a consistent three categories across all hotels: Resort View, Water View, Theme Park View. Not sure what will be the water view at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge...maybe only two categories there.

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‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ Coming to Disney Parks

With the release of GOTG Volume 3, there are a few limited-time experiences coming toa Disney parks

Disney California Adventure Park 

For a limited time, Mantis is joining Star-Lord at Avengers Campus for “Guardians of the Galaxy: Awesome Dance Off!” The celestial siblings will get their groove on in front of Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, as they recruit those of you with the right skills to join their band of heroes.

EPCOT

Connections Café is offering Perfect Sovereign Waffle Bites topped with a red berry dipping sauce. You can also try a Guardians of the Galaxy Cookie at the Mission: SPACE Popcorn Cart, next to Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

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Adventures by Disney is heading to Colombia for a little Encanto inspiration

A New Adventure to Bogota, the Coffee Region, Cocora Valley and Cartagena 

Highlights of this eight-day, seven-night itinerary in 2024 include: 

Each travel party booked on the inaugural 2024 Adventures will receive a signed lithograph of never-before-released artwork from Walt Disney Animation Studios. 

For a complete itinerary and list of activities, visit Colombia Land Adventure. 

A New Adventure to Canada’s Maritimes of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island 

Also in 2024 you can enjoy Canada’s Atlantic coast in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. The eight-day, seven-night adventure includes:  

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New Star Wars Photo Ops at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New Holopuck Magic Shots

Located deep in the Outer Rim near Wild Space, the remote planet of Batuu has become a thriving destination for scoundrels and smugglers, luring bounty hunters from across the galaxy. Select Image Scanners (known on our planet as Disney PhotoPass photographers) can offer a holopuck that will reveal the details of your next target.

BB-8 Magic Shot

You may just find BB8 showing up in your PhotoPass image.

Darksaber 

Created more than a thousand years ago by Tarre Vizsla (the first Mandalorian to become a Jedi Knight), the Darksaber is an ancient weapon with...

Disney100 is underway at Walt Disney World and there a ton of different ways to join in the celebrations. This story, plus Disney Cruise Line at 25 and we discuss whether Disney is overdoing it with the anniversary celebrations for just about everything.

How to Celebrate Disney100 at Walt Disney World Resort 

But is Disney Becoming Oversaturated with Anniversary Celebrations?

As the Walt Disney Company celebrates its 100th birthday, they've created a few ways to mark the occasion at Walt Disney World

See Mickey and Minnie in their Platinum Best 
 
EPCOT is the center of the Disney100 celebration at Walt Disney World and things will ramp later this year during the Disney100 celebration when the park overhaul is completed. As part of this, Mickey and Minnie will be available for meet and greets in their platinum attire.

Admire Special Spaceship Earth Lighting 

Spaceship Earth has some new lighting effects for Disney100.

This will include visuals from the Disney Company history, including character icons, park imagery and the Disney100 logo, all appearing in the Spaceship Earth lighting. Watch for the Wonderful World of Disney TV show opening and the Mickey-shaped balloons sold on Main Street U.S.A.

Disney100 Selfies 

Disney100 selfie backdrops will be in place in all four theme parks and Disney Springs. 

Surprise Character Visits at Disney Resort Hotels 

As the Disney100 celebration comes to life, watch for surprise visits from Disney characters at Walt Disney World hotels. They'll be wearing their special platinum outfits.

Celebrate With New Food and Drinks 

As of May 1, Disney100 treats have starting appearing, including the Petite Cake for a limited time at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs. This has layers of vanilla chiffon, berry mousse and berry compote, all topped with a celebratory Disney100 Medallion macaron.

“The inspiration of this cake pulls from the rich purple and platinum colors used for the Disney100 celebration,” Chef Amanda shared. “The drapery on the sides of the cake represents the traditional bunting that adorns Main Street, U.S.A. for special occasions. And of course, Mickey Mouse is proudly represented on the front of the cake because as we all know: ‘It all started with a mouse.’”

This is the first on many Disney100 food items that will appear all over Walt Disney World.

Find the Perfect Disney100 Souvenir 

Disney100 merchandise is already available at Walt Disney World and the Cinderella Premium Bucket is coming back, this time with a Disney100 makeover that will be exclusive to Magic Kingdom. Stay tuned for more on when this one will debut. 

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New Entertainment Coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios

As of May 14, The Edna Mode Experience returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios as part of a reimagined Pixar Place. Here you’ll find Edna, Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, Frozone, and Sulley from Monsters, Inc.

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Disney Cruise Line Creates Treats and Drinks for its 25th Anniversary Celebration

2023 is the 25th anniversary of Disney Cruise Line and to celebrate the entire fleet has special treats and drinks inspired by the Silver Anniversary at Sea. These will be available from May through September.

The 25th Disney Cruise Line Cupcake is a vanilla sponge cake topped with vanilla frosting, 25th chocolate décor and shimmering sprinkles. If you love chocolate and candy, the Mickey Chocolate Sphere features the 25th emblem and is filled with a variety of candy pieces. Crack it open and treat yourself.

At both Cabana’s and Marceline’s Market locations, two of the desserts will be getting a Silver Anniversary at Sea upgrade. The 3 Layer Carrot Cake with lemon frosting will be adding 25th chocolate décor and the Disney Cruise Line Anniversary Chocolate Marquise will feature rich chocolate truffle crème topped with the 25th chocolate décor as well.

At the concierge lounge, the Chocolate Cream Cookiehas a dulce de leche filling inside a rich dark chocolate cookie and is decorated with the Silver Anniversary at Sea logo plus the signature shimmering sprinkles. Also in concierge, the Celebration Cupcaketops a red velvet sponge cake with vanilla frosting, shimmering sprinkles and 25th chocolate décor.

Captain Minnie is joining the anniversary festivities with the Vanilla Crisped Rice Treatoffered at all Cove Café locations. 

Last but certainly not least, signature desserts throughout the entire fleet will be enhanced with the addition of a special 25th chocolate piece to their already picturesque presentation. At Palo, the classic Chocolate Souffléwith double chocolate sauce, vanilla crème anglaise, and vanilla bean gelato will also have a chocolate 25th anniversary piece.

Special bottles of Coca-Cola will be decked out in Disney Cruise Line Silver Anniversary at Sea décor. For the 21+ crown, the signature Jubilee by the Sea cocktail combines 818 Blanco Tequilla, Luxardo Marashino, and fresh lemon juice with a sparkly, silver dusting and a shimmering blue sugar rim. You'll also get a keepsake bookmark showing how to make this cocktail at home.

For purchase, there will be a Specialty Coffee Mug with a unique anniversary design featuring the Disney Cruise Line fleet and Mickey Mouse himself. Beer drinkers out there can bring home the 25th Anniversary Beer Mugetched with the anniversary logo.

And finally, you'll be able to purchase the Silver Anniversary at Sea Popcorn Bucket showcasing 25 years of Disney Ships.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Disney is converting the Cabins at Fort Wilderness to Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas. What will this mean for DVC Members and Fort Wilderness guests? This story, plus the first look at the the 2023 edition of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (including some insider tips).

Fort Wilderness Cabins being re-imagined and converted to DVC Resort Offering

In an unexpected move, Walt Disney World Resort announced plans to refresh the cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and convert them into DVC properties.

The proposed plans call for more than 350 new cabins across all 750 acres to replace the existing cabins. The new cabins would use the existing footprint and take advantage of energy-efficient features.

There is a lot to unpack in this story. We discuss many questions, including how will Disney manage having a Moderate property as a Deluxe Villa? Will additional amenities be added to keep in line with DVC standards? Will the cabins located close to the Settlement Trading Post remain, or will they be removed and only the cabin neighborhoods be converted? This and more in this episode of the show.

Design concepts shared by Disney show what Disney calls "a fresh take on the current cabin experience ... while also paying homage to the resort’s unique culture and heritage through the magic of Disney storytelling." The design has received mixed reviews. The one-bedroom cabins sleep up to six adults, and feature a bathroom, living room, full kitchen and private patio. A select number of cabins are also expected to be dog-friendly. 

In our view, the design concepts shared by Disney do not fill well in Fort Wilderness. They look more like sheds than cabins and are far too modern for the theming of this property.

As with all Disney Vacation Club resorts, the cabins would continue to be open for reservations to all guests, based on availability.

The planned cabins are part of a collection of improvement projects underway at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground that are designed to enhance the guest experience. Examples include proposed pool and walking trail enhancements as well as new expanded dining experiences at Trail’s End Restaurant and Crockett’s Tavern, with more exciting news to come.

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort is projected to open in 2024 and would be the 17th Disney Vacation Club resort. As always, more details will follow and we will share them here at that time.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Returns to Walt Disney World from August 11 to November 1

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will return to Magic Kingdom Park on August 11 -- one of its earliest kick-offs yet. 

MNSSHP features Halloween entertainment, Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best and more. This is a limited capacity, ticketed nighttime event that starts at 7 p.m. and allows guests to experience potentially shorter wait times on attractions, themed food and drinks and more. 

When Do Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets Go on Sale?

If you have a reservation booked at one of the select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, or Shades of Green, you can buy tickets starting April 27, 2023. Tickets for everyone else will go on sale on May 2. 

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween PartyDates are:

August: 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29

September: 1, 4, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29

October: 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31

November: 1

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Ticket Prices and Discounts

Tickets for MNSSHP range in price from $109.00 to $199.00 for adults and from $99.00 to $189.00 for kids aged 3-9, depending on the night. It is generally more expensive closer to Halloween. Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Members and Annual Passholders will get a $10.00 per ticket discount on select nights.

Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade 

Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is an event highlight where Disney villains stride down Main Street, U.S.A. (alongside Disney heroes) and other Disney characters. Disney has hinted at some new faces this year.

The Nighttime Fireworks Show is Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular

Jack Skellington hosts Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular, which features projections, special effects and lighting paired with fireworks, music and Disney characters.

Trick-or-Treat for Bags of Candy and Sweets

Trick-or-treat locations are located throughout Magic Kingdom Park and you can load up on name brand candy and chocolate. Disney supplies the bag (but you may want a bigger one if you plan to go all out). 

The Sanderson Sisters are Back

The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus are back for an adventure to summon the ultimate Hocus Pocus Party Potion during the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show at Cinderella Castle.

During the party, you will have the opportunity to experience attractions including Haunted Mansion, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and TRON Lightcycle / Run. In a new move, TRON Lightcycle / Run will use a virtual queue* during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, allowing guests to enjoy all the festivities while they wait to enter the Grid. More details to follow on that. 

*Virtual queues are limited and subject to availability, times are subject to change, and joining a virtual queue does not guarantee entrance to any experience.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

New photo session options with Capture Your Moment in Magic Kingdom Park; is it worth it? Plus, the first news about the 2023 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival; an update coming for Star Tours; Rogers the Musical is happening; and an update on Tiana's Bayou Adventure.

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Kicks off on July 27

The 2023 edition will run from July 27 through November 18. Depending on when you attend, the festival will be different. 25 Global Marketplaces will include returning favorites, plus several new additions that will change as the festival turns from summer to fall.

Highlights of the 2023 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival include:

Eat to the Beat Concerts will be back and we will share line-up details once they're released. Check for more festival news any time at TasteEPCOT.com. 

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NEW Capture Your Moment Photo Sessions Coming to Magic Kingdom

Capture Your Moment is a Disney PhotoPass product that offers a 20-minute personalized photo session with a Disney PhotoPass photographer in any Disney World Park you choose. 

Magic Kingdom photo session locations have included Main Street, U.S.A. and around Cinderella Castle. Now they've added a new Capture Your Moment experience in Fantasyland, starting on May 1.

New locations include the back of Cinderella Castle, Prince Charming Regal Carousel, Rapunzel’s tower, Prince Eric’s castle, Storybook Circus, Belle and Maurice’s cottage, outside of Beast’s castle, around Mad Tea Party and more. Entrance to the rides or attractions in any of these locations is not part of the photo service. You are guaranteed one photo location per session, but if you act quickly, it is possible to visit a few locations to take photos within your time slot. Check-in for this experience is at Sir Mickey’s (just behind Cinderella Castle) where a photographer will help you choose a photo prop and the location(s) you want to use. 

Disney also noted you may even be able to visit a location beyond Fantasyland to capture photos, such as the Haunted Mansion or other spots in Liberty Square. Ask your photographer about available options and how long they'd have to capture photos at these locations.

Each Capture Your Moment session is $99.00 and can include a maximum of eight guests. Photos are not included in the price of a session. If you have a Disney PhotoPass entitlement such as Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day, as well as qualifying Annual Passholders with a Disney PhotoPass download benefit, can download the photos taken during Capture Your Moment at no extra cost. You can also opt to purchase photos individually.

Bookings for Capture Your Moment in Fantasyland will open on April 24, with sessions offered daily starting May 1. Bookings can be made up to 60 days in advance, and advance reservations are strongly recommended. A limited number of same-day reservations may be available; so check the My Disney Experience app for availability.

If you want to do Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique before a Capture Your Moment session in Fantasyland, Disney recommends booking a photo session to begin at least two hours after the start of the boutique time.

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‘Rogers: The Musical’ to Premiere June 30 for a Limited Time at Disney California Adventure Park

In the first episode of “Hawkeye,” viewers saw a Broadway musical featuring the life of Steve Rogers, Captain America. Disney has now officially announced that a real-life one-act musical theater production of “Rogers: The Musical” will hit the stage at the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure Park for a limited-time engagement, starting June 30, 2023. 

The production features a cast of singers and dancers telling the story of Steve Rogers joined by Peggy Carter, Nick Fury and select members of the Avengers. The musical will take us on a journey from Steve’s humble beginnings during World War II to becoming Captain America, leading the Avengers and beyond. 

Music will include “Save the City,” from the Disney+ series “Hawkeye”; “Star Spangled Man” from the film “Captain America: The First Avenger”; plus, five new original songs written just for “Rogers: The Musical” at the Disneyland Resort.

“Rogers: The Musical” is a 30 minute show that will take place from Tuesday through Saturday most weeks. More details as the date draws closer.

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Mama Odie to Make a Big Appearance in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

New ride renderings released by Disney show Mama Odie joking with guests along the journey after a special display of her magic. The two-hundred-year-old Bayou Fairy Godmother, with her eccentric belongings and “seeing eye snake” Juju, is comically eccentric (yet wise and all-knowing) throughout the adventure. Actress Jenifer Lewis, who voiced Mama Odie in “The Princess and the Frog,” is returning to her role for the attraction.

To make room for this new magic, Splash Mountain at Disneyland park will be closed starting May 31, 2023, so we can begin the next phase of development for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

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Star Tours Sets Course for New Adventures in 2024

In 2024, Disney will (finally) be adding more stories and characters to Star Tours at both Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida and Disneyland Park in California. It has been awhile since significant updates have occurred. Will we now see the Mandalorian and Baby Yoda (aka Grogu) onboard?

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and...

The complete guide to Walt Disney World Annual Passes, including real-life costs and break-even points so you can decider whether it's worth it to buy a Disney World Annual Pass. This story plus DisneyBand+ versus MagicBand+ and what's the difference?

The Walt Disney World Annual Pass Episode 

Everything you Want to Know About Annual Passes Before AP Sales Return to Walt Disney World

New sales of the Disney Incredi-Pass, Disney Sorcerer Pass and Disney Pirate Pass start on April 20. Quantities will be limited and passes may become unavailable at any time.

Eligible DVC Members will have the opportunity to purchase the DVC Disney Sorcerer Pass starting April 13 as part of DVC Membership Magic benefits.

Passholder benefits: Passholders get access to select Disney PhotoPass benefits (age restrictions apply) and (as of April 18) can visit the parks after 2:00 p.m. without needing a park reservation -- except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. Pass blockout dates continue to apply for certain passes.

This is the first time Walt Disney World annual passes will be available for general purchase since sales of all but the Florida residents pass were suspended in November 2021.

Prices for the Walt Disney World Annual Passes are:

All passes include free standard theme park parking and discounts on select dining and merchandise.

Disney Pixie Dust Pass ($399)

- Florida Residents Only
 - Use it on "most" weekdays, subject to blockout dates, including peak and holiday periods. 

- You can have a max of three park reservations at a time (unless you have a Disney hotel reservation, then it's length of stay).

Disney Pirate Pass ($749)

- Florida Residents Only

- Use it on "most" days, subject to blockout dates, including peak and holiday periods. 

- Max of four park reservations at a time (with a Disney hotel reservation, it's for length of stay).

Disney Sorcerer Pass ($969)

- Florida Residents and eligible DVC Members

- Use it on "most" days, subject to blockout dates on select days during select holiday periods 

- Max of five park reservations at a time (with a Disney hotel reservation, it's for length of stay).

Disney Incredi-Pass ($1399)

- Open to all guests

- No blockout dates

- Max of five park reservations at a time (with a Disney hotel reservation, it's for length of stay).

Is a Walt Disney World Annual Pass Worth it? Let's Do the Math

Using our real-life example from Spring 2023, the cost of Disney Parks Tickets (Park Hopper Plus) ages 10+ and valid any 8 days was $800.66.Looking at the costs above, that means that if you generally travel to Walt Disney World for approximately 10 days in a year (or more), then the Disney Sorcerer Pass is worth it (if you qualify). If you generally travel to Walt Disney World for approximately 14 days in a year (or more), then the Disney Incredi-Pass is worth it.

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DisneyBand+ Wearable Technology is coming to Disney Cruise Line: Is this Just a DCL-branded MagicBand+?

DisneyBand+ is coming to Disney Cruise Line, starting with a preview on select Disney Wish sailings before it officially debuts.

With DisneyBand+, you will be able to take advantage of hands-free conveniences for the first time on a Disney cruise. With three Disney Cruise Line-exclusive designs to choose from, DisneyBand+ is a new accessory for a Disney cruise vacation.

What Does DisneyBand+ Do?

DisneyBand+ will allow you to unlock your stateroom door and charge to your payment card on your stateroom folio. 

Children aged 3 and up can use their bands (instead of the Oceaneer Club Band) to access kids’ clubs while onboard the ship and at Scuttle’s Cove, Castaway Cay.

Onboard photographers around the ship will tap your DisneyBand+ to link photos to your stateroom, making it easier to view and purchase photos during their cruise.

DisneyBand+ will also allow you to uncover surprises throughout the cruise, so watch for extra moments of magic. 

The big question is, isn't this just a MagicBand+ with Disney Cruise Line designs?

While we don't know for certain, the answer appears to be yet. 

In the FAQ, DIsney states: "Your Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort MagicBand+ can be used as a DisneyBand+ during select Disney Cruise Line sailings." Plus, Disney also notes that you can use a DisneyBand+ for Walt Disney World and Disneyland hotels and theme parks.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo

Is Disneyland Paris following Walt Disney World's lead with annual passes? Plus, Disney Cruise Line sets up port in Singapore and Disney World tells you why you should visit this summer.

Disneyland Paris is Pausing Annual Pass Sales

In a familiar trend at other resorts, Disneyland Paris is now the latest to apparently pause the sale of annual passes. Stories are circulating that an entirely new annual pass sales offering may be coming.

At Walt Disney World, Disney continues to defy the odds with no new sales of annual passes. Meanwhile, Annual Pass park entry lanes sit empty; leading us to believe that they are nowhere annual pass sales capacity, but instead are purposely not selling annual passes because guests (like us) continue to pay full rack rate for park admission.

Will annual pass sales ever resume at Walt Disney World or is something else coming our way?

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Disney Cruise Line to New Cruise Ship to Southeast Asia

Disney Cruise Line and the Singapore Tourism Board have agreed to collaborate to have a brand-new Disney cruise ship exclusively port in Singapore for at least five years, starting in 2025. More details about the maiden voyage, itineraries and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.

The new ship will feature "innovative Disney experiences" along with the Disney Cruise style of entertainment, dining and more.

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Disney has Released its Three Reasons to Be Excited for Walt Disney World this Summer (but these may not be the best reasons)

1. Special Discounted Resort Pricing: Limited Offer

Walt Disney World is offering summer travel deals with savings up to 25% on stays at select Disney Resort hotels. 

2. Exclusive Early Morning Entry and Late Night Hours

One of the best benefits of staying at a Disney Resort hotel is the option to take advantage of 30-minute early entry into the theme parks every day. Guests of Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels or Deluxe Villas can also enjoy extended evening hours, in select parks, on select nights. 

3. Complimentary Overnight Self-Parking at Disney Hotels

Disney World recently brought back complimentary overnight self-parking for guests of Disney Resorts hotels. Disney Resort hotel guests also get complimentary standard parking at Walt Disney World theme parks. 

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Disney has a new tour for Disney100, so what do you get and is it worth it? This plus our top picks from what's new in the Easter Foodie Guide 2023 for Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

To Celebrate Disney100 at Disneyland Resort, Disney is doing What they Should have Done for Disney World 50

Disneyland has launched a new guided tour called “Celebrating Disney100 at the Disneyland Resort” The new guided tour will give you a unique opportunity to meet a Disney animator at Animation Academy and explore Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park as a living story of the past 100 years of Disney magic. 

Here is what the Celebrating Disney100 tour includes:

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Walt Disney World Easter Foodie Guide

Walt Disney World Resort 

Disney Resort Hotels 

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort  

World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court(Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available) 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
  

The Mara(Available April 1 through 9; mobile order available) 

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort 

Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining(Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available) 

Disney’s Beach Club Resort  

Beach Club Marketplace(Available March 20 through April 9; mobile order available) 

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop(Available April 1 through 30) 

Disney’s BoardWalk 

BoardWalk Deli and Carousel Coffee(Available April 1 through 9; mobile order available at BoardWalk Deli only) 

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort  

Centertown Market and Spyglass Grill(Available April 1 through 30; mobile order available) 

Disney’s Contemporary Resort 

Contempo Café(Available through April 9; mobile order available) 

Steakhouse 71(Available April 9 only) 

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort  

Barcelona Lounge 

Three Bridges Bar and Grill(Available April 1 through May 31)

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
 

Gasparilla's Island Grill(Available through April 9; mobile order available) 

The Grand Cottage at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Lobby(Available through April 9) 

In our latest Walt Disney World Trip Report for Spring 2023, we ran several real-life Disney travel tests and you may be surprised by what we found. We share our findings on when is Disney Genie+ worth buying and when should you NOT buy it? Is Disney After Hours worth the extra cost? How is mobile food ordering working against guests and are the posted ride wait times at Walt Disney World accurate?

Walt Disney World Trip Report Spring 2023

This week we tested a few key things that every Disney World traveler wants to know and we are here to offer our best tips and advice for what works and what doesn't onsite at Walt Disney World. We share our first-hand experience after testing out several options head to head.

When to Pay for Genie + and When NOT to Pay for Genie +

Do not purchase Genie+ during busy park periods.

The tried and true method that's worked for 50 years is still the best strategy today.

Why Free Late Night Extra Magic Hours are Better than Paying for Disney After Hours

Lower crowds, faster moving around the parks. Far better value.

How Mobile Order is Ruining the Guest Experience at Walt Disney World

Disney may say that mobile ordering for food is there to enhance the guest experience, the reality in the parks is the exact opposite. 

If you're not mobile ordering, get to the quick service counter by 11:30 a.m.

Wait Times are Lower than Posted

On some days the times were half of what was posted.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

It's becoming more apparent that Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser is in trouble. Voyages have been scaled back and the financial media are calling it Disney's first Star Wars blunder. We discuss ways Disney could reimagine Galactic Starcruiser to turn it profitable and make it more accessible to guests. This story plus news about the new Disneyland Hotel DVC villas.

Recent Changes to Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Signal this Experience is Not Sustainable

New dates for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyages are now on sale for dates from October through December 2023. 

So will anything change with how the experience is run? The modified schedule has been reduced to only two voyages per week. Holiday weeks may have three voyages. Disney noted that they have been "learning a lot during our first year of operation and have adjusted voyage dates to meet the needs of our guests." But the fact is that something is wrong with this model and it is likely not financially sustainable unless something changes.

It remains to be seen what will happen with this experience in the long-term as the only certainty is that Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is not working out as Disney had planned or hoped.

Should Disney reimagine this into a dinner theater with no overnight component, or convert the entire Starcruiser into a restaurant/dining experience? We discuss the options in this week's episode of the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923 Main Street.

One thing is for sure, Disney is keenly aware that they cannot sustain this experience in its current form and demand for only two sailings per week is not likely profitable, nor what Disney had in mind. The financial media have taken notice and this will not bode well for the company unless some significant changes are made.

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The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will open on September 28, 2023

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will have 344 themed rooms, including duo studios, deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas and grand villas. Each includes modern just-like-home amenities with Disney magic sprinkled throughout. Room themes include The Jungle Book, Sleeping Beauty, The Princess and the Frog, Fantasia and more.

Booking dates to keep in mind:

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

We just learned a little more about what's coming with the reopening of Mickey's Toontown (and if you love Disney Parks collectibles, this one's for you). This story, plus freebies you'll love at Disney Aulani in Hawaii and how (and where) to celebrate the Oscars at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.

Mickey’s Toontown has More to Offer than You May Think

Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Resort is set to reopen on March 19, 2023 and there are a few extra surprises that may just steal the show.

This week we share a first look at the huge array of tempting snacks and drinks to discover (plus a special new Disney collectible). There are two new food locations: Café Daisy and Good Boy! Grocers. 

Café Daisy is a brand new eatery where Daisy Duck will be showing off her expert culinary skills with the help of our talented Disney culinary teams. 

Daisy’s Dressed-up Dog is an all-beef foot-long hot dog, with chili-cheese sauce, mac & cheese, and Parmesan potato crispies with house-made chips. Want a simpler hot dog, The Daisy Dog is an all-beef foot-long hot dog with house-made chips and you get the option of adding chili-cheese sauce.

The Cheesy Pizza Flop-Over features mozzarella and provolone with tomato sauce while the Pepperoni Pizza Flop-Over has pepperoni, mozzarella, and provolone with tomato sauce. 

The Spring Garden Wrap is plant-based and combines romaine and quinoa in a wrap with a creamy lemon dressing and toasted pumpkin seeds served with house-made chips.

Your little ones can enjoy the Cheese Please! Pizza (cheese and tomato sauce) or the Pepperoni Please! Pizza (pepperoni, cheese, and tomato sauce). There are also bite-size Minnie’s Mini Corn Dogs and a Mini Mac and Cheesy.

Toontown ‘Tater Chips are house-made chips with chili-cheese sauce to add on to any meal. For dessert, Daisy’s Goody-Goody Donuts with cinnamon sugar are an option for a sweet finish to your meal.

Let's not forget the new drinks! The Picnic Time Watermelon Lemonade is a refreshing choice with Minute Maid Zero Sugar Lemonade, watermelon premium syrup, and watermelon gummies. If you like coffee, the Specialty Cold Brrr-ew is made with Joffrey's Caramel Mudslide Cold Brew plus sea salt and whipped topping.

Over at the Toontown Farmers Market there's Good Boy! Grocers. This is a roadside stand with grab-and-go drinks and treats. You'll find pickles, Mini Babybel snack cheese, Coke drinks, water bottles, Topo Chico Sparkling Mineral Water, gluten allergy-friendly cookies, fruit bars, and whole fruit.

The star of the show here is the Perfect Picnic Basket novelty item. After you pick up your basket, you choose three snack-sized items such as Cuties Mandarin Orange, yogurt smoothie, applesauce, granola bar, gluten allergy-friendly fig bar and more. You also pick between a small DASANI water or Minute Maid Juice Box. And if you want the full experiences, get the Perfect Picnic Blanket to go with their basket.

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‘Ohana Summer Fun at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii

Summer holidays aren't that far away so if you are planning a Hawaiian vacation including Disney's Aulani Resort, Disney released a summer holiday resort overview.

Here's a look at some of what Aulani offers so you can start planning now.

A guided Māka‘ika‘i (tour or sightsee) is a great way to explore Aulani and get lots inside info on the resort. There are several different free tour options:

The Daily ‘Iwa (aka Aulani’s daily activities schedule) will show available tour times and much more.

Forget Hidden Mickeys...Aulani has something much more Hawaiian

The Menehune are mischievous, shy and maybe even a little magical beings of Hawai‘i. They are known for their skilled craftsmanship, evidence of which may be found by curious guests throughout Aulani. The small Hidden Menehune are uniquely Aulani.

Want to explore furhter? The Menehune Adventure Trail will take you on a high-tech, interactive scavenger hunt for fun surprises. Armed with a special Aulani tablet, you will solve riddles, discover hidden wonders and learn about Hawaiian history and culture along the way. Best of all this is a free adventure and great for kids and adults alike. 

Learn the ‘ukulele

Music is a beautiful and meaningful part of Hawaiian culture. Ukulele sounds are everywhere at Aulani and you can learn to play with fun classes by Aulani cast members in the Pau Hana Room.

It's a 45-minute interactive experience, you'll learn a little Hawaiian instrument history and learn to play a few chords on the ‘ukulele. By the end of the class, you'll be able to play along with some of today’s popular songs.

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Oscar Treats and Special Photo Opportunities at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

Watch for special treats and photo opps at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland in celebration of this year's Oscars. Disney California Adventure, Hollywood Studios, the Grand Californian and Disney Springs are just a few locations joining in the celebration.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow alon...

The closings and openings coming up at Walt Disney World, including one that will upset a lot of guests. This plus EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival top food picks, more Disney After Hours events, new DVC villas and more Disney travel news.

Openings and Closings at Walt Disney World

Trail's End is Closing at Fort Wilderness
It looks like Trail's End has Reached the End of the Trail. For anyone who loved the buffet-style all-you-care-to-enjoy dining experience at Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground, you won't have that unlimited dessert bar anymore.

Trail's End will be closing in April and converted into a quick service marketplace. No more table service at Trail's End Fort Wilderness.

Disney's BoardWalk Inn Club Level Concierge Lounge is Closing

The Concierge Lounge at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is closing for refurbishment on March 11 until at least the end of April. How this might affect you even if you hadn't booked Club Level there.

Narcoossee’s is Reopening at Disney's Grand Floridian on April 1

After a seven-month closure, Narcoossee's is reopening with a new design concept of land and sea. Will the new enhancements mean for a better dining experience? We're hoping it will, but the signs are not all positive that Disney has addressed past issues at Narcoossee's.

As far as the menu is concerned, it's not entirely new--which is disappointing, as the menu was a big issue.

The Bisque is back, but with a new tableside presentation. There are also two new starters: the Beef and Ricotta Tortelloni (with brown butter, parsnip puree, and sultanta raisins) and the Ocean-inspired Charcuterie Board featuring ahi tuna pastrami, charred octopus, and house-made sausage from the sea. 

For the main course, Chef Noah’s signature dish is the Blackened Redfish. This is served with a crispy chorizo-sunchoke hash with hominy, Florida sweet corn, and red pepper rouille. 

Plant-based dishes include a Roasted Vegetable Paella featuring market vegetables, cannellini beans, and preserved artichoke finished with charred Meyer lemon. Land-based fare includes a new Dry-Aged Pork Ribeye Chop served with creamy goat cheese-potatoes and turnips with onion jam and a touch of fig jus.

Chefs have kept Narcoossee’s staples like the Plancha-seared Scallops with Parisian Gnocchi and Surf and Turf featuring filet mignon and butter-poached lobster tail.

The dessert course kept their trademark Almond-crusted Cheesecake with Lambert cherry sauce and Chantilly cream. New dessert items include The Berry Pavlova -- artfully crafted with Florida fresh berries and citrus delicately placed over meringue and yuzu crémeux and finished with a tableside pour of anglaise. And the Pineapple Bavarois (roasted-pineapple house-made blackberry-buttermilk ice cream). 

The wine list has been refreshed with pairings for each dish and the bar team has anew cocktail program, inspired by the Victorian era. Disney is touting a signature Empress Lime Gimlet, a modern twist on a classic gimlet with Empress Gin, Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur, and cold-pressed lime. There are non-alcoholic cocktails as well.

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San Fransokyo Square appears at Disney California Adventure Park in Summer 2023

Pacific Wharf in Disney California Adventure park is transforming into San Fransokyo from Big Hero 6.  It's a fictional mash-up of San Francisco and Tokyo. The story goes that ss the tech industry began to emerge and the local fishing trade fell on hard times, entrepreneurs came together to reinvent the seaside canneries into a vibrant, multicultural district of neighborhood restaurants and local shops.

An iconic landmark of the area will be the San Fransokyo Gate Bridge, which will span the tide pools linking San Fransokyo Square to the Paradise Gardens Park obelisk. 

When the transformation is completed this summer, you'll find familiar favorites like soups in freshly baked bread bowls, plus many new Asian-inspired selections. The new Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería draws inspiration from its tri-cultural influences with signage in English, Japanese and Spanish. Outside will be a beer garden decorated with festoon lights and papel picado.

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A New Theme Park and New Dates Added for Disney After Hours Events

EPCOT has been added to Disney After Hours starting on June 1 and the price does include ice cream novelties, popcorn and select beverages available at carts throughout the park.

When Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park reopens this spring, H2O Glow After Hours will be back as of May 20.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is adding more dates for Disney After Hours as well, starting May 3.

Tickets are now on sale and the usual discounts for DVC members and annual passholders will apply.

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The Villas at Disneyland Hotel Reveal First Look at Guest Rooms

The 12-story Villas at Disneyland® Hotel tower will open this September and Disney released a first look at the room themes.

You'll find room themes including The Jungle Book, Sleeping Beauty and The Princess and the Frog.

The one- and two-bedroom villas feature Fantasia and Princess and the Frog themes.

The multilevel three-bedroom Grand Villa is the showstopper. It sleeps up to 12 and has Disney artistry sprinkled throughout the space. The first floor has a full kitchen, large dining area, and a double-sided fireplace connecting the living area to a private outdoor balcony. The first floor is also home to the primary suite, inspired by Bambi.

Walk up the spiral staircase to the second floor, which features two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms inspired by Frozen and Moana, plus the washer and dryer room.

Disney Vacation Club Members will have early access to cash rental reservations starting March 15, 2023, by calling Member Services at (800) 800-9800.

Disneyland Resort Magic Key holders can start booking on the following day, March 16, 2023, by contacting (714) 956-6425.

Bookings open to the public on March 17, 2023, subject to availability.

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No New Annual Pass Sales Yet, but Walt Disney World Annual Passholders Get More Perks

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Disney Eats Foodie Guide to EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2023

It's time for our top picks from the EPCOT Flower and Garden Foodie Guide 2023. The festival runs March 1 to July 5, 2023.

Don't forget to grab a festival passport for returning Garden Graze food stroll. If you buy five of the 11 available treats from various Outdoor Kitchens, you'll get an exclusive tre...

From where to find several secret photo opportunities based on Disney's Tangled, to exciting new Disney Weddings and ticketed event additions coming to Disneyland Resort this year, there's a lot to celebrate in this week's Disney travel news.

Where to Find the Best Tangled Photo Opportunities at Walt Disney World

This week, Disney went about untangling the Tangled PhotoPass opportunities at Walt Disney World. Disney PhotoPass has lots of Tangled-themed photo ops and you may not know them all. So here's where to find them.

Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs

Get photos in front of Tangled virtual backdrops. The trick is to let the photographer know that you want the Tangled photos and they'll set it up. Special bonus here: there’s a frying pan prop you can use in your photos to channel your inner Rapunzel.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Park

Get Tangled at Animal Kingdom by finding the Disney PhotoPass photographer stationed at the bridge leading from the entrance of the park into Discovery Island. There's a Pascal Magic Shot to be had here, so be sure to check with the photographer to get the Tangled magic.

Magic Kingdom Park 

And of course, in Corona inside the Magic Kingdom, the always-alluring lantern prop photo is a classic. This one is located near Rapunzel's tower in the restroom courtyard. It's very popular and a line is pretty much standard fare.

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Cinderella's Carriage is Finally Coming to Disneyland

It's hard to believe it took this long but Disneyland Resort is finally launching a Cinderella Horse-Drawn Carriage to offer unique Disney celebrations for couples. Word is that the carriage will launch later this year as part of 100 Years of Wonder. 
 
The new Coach will be available for both Theme Park and Resort Hotel ceremonies. Walt Disney World guests have had this option for many years and now Disneyland guests will as well.

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Disneyland After Dark Brings Two More Themed “Nites” To Disneyland Resort This Spring

Disneyland After Dark is adding two more themed nights: Disneyland After Dark: Throwback Nite and Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite. These nights typically have a three-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00  p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and then the private party runs from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. 

Disneyland After Dark: Throwback Nite
April 18 & 20, 2023, at Disneyland Park

Grab your flashback fashions for Disneyland After Dark: Throwback Nite. inspired by the ‘50s and ‘60s, you can relive Disney’s classic past with music and entertainment that pay tribute to the first decade of Disneyland park. Mickey Mouse and his friends will be in retro outfits, along with visits from nostalgic characters. Highlights include:

Disneyland After Dark:Star WarsNite
May 2, 4, 8 & 11, 2023, at Disneyland Park

Highlights include:

Check Disneyland.com for ticket info and availability.

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Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania’ at Disney California Adventure Park 

You May Find Kang the Conqueror at Disney California Adventure Park

For a limited time, Kang the Conqueror is moving stealthily throughout the Avengers campus, engaging recruits and looking information. 

A Drink Vessel Fit for the Quantum Realm

The new “Ooze Cauldron” inspired by a pivotal scene in the new Ant-Man movie is available at Pym Test Kitchen. Act fast though, because it's likely to run out very quickly.

Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

--
Media provided by Jamendo

Will Frontierland disappear forever at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom? New details about Tiana's upcoming attraction and restaurant hint at some big changes for the area currently known as Frontierland.

This story, plus construction delays at Disneyland and construction inconveniences at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

Not So Fast! Mickey’s Toontown Pushes Back Opening Date at Disneyland Park

If you were counting down the days until March 8 for the opening of the all-new Mickey's ToonTown at Disneyland, you'll have to count a little longer. According to Disney, theheavy winter rain storms affecting parts of California have impacted their construction timelines, setting them back. As a result Disney has pushed back reopening date of Mickey’s Toontown to March 19, 2023. 

This will most affect guests who have vacations planned between March 8 and March 19 and who may have been looking forward to visiting.

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It's Going to be Harder to Get Those Steps at Disney Grand Floridian Resort

As we have reported in the past, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is in the midst of a fairly significant refurbishment project, which will see refreshed rooms and an updated main lobby. It's a big project that's lasting well over a year and will now be affecting the walking path between the Grand Floridian and Magic Kingdom Park. As ofFebruary 13 the pathway is closed and won't reopen until "late Spring" (whatever that means).

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There's a New Storyline Reveal for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and it May Give Some Hints of the Bigger Picture for Magic Kingdom that's Ahead

Everyone knows Tiana loves cooking and the restaurant Tiana’s Palace coming to Disneyland is part of that.

But Walt Disney Imagineering is creating more to the story. It starts in the queue for Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Tiana has transformed an aging salt mine and built a much-loved brand.

The entire project includes a boutique farm and both a working and teaching kitchen. Tiana’s Foods is where Tiana creates all sorts of new products, including a line of original hot sauces.

Tiana wants to thank her family and friends and the entire community their support by throwing a big Mardi Gras party. When it turns out there’s been a bit of a mix–up with the party preparations, Tiana invites us to meet her at Tiana’s Foods to help with the missing ingredient for the party.

There's much more to this story, but reading into it sounds like be could see new Tiana Hot Sauces, a Magic Kingdom Mardi Gras party and Pecos Bill's transforming into Tiana's Kitchen. They may even offer food classes for kids. 

Many people are concerned about what's happening to Frontierland, but when you factor in Beyond Big Thunder Mountain, there may be a much bigger picture about to unfold.

We'll keep you posted as Disney releases more details about what's to come at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2024.

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Thank You for Listening to the Disney Travel Podcast

Thank you very much for listening to this episode, Amelia and I hope that you enjoyed it. If you did, we would be very grateful if you could rate, review and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts/iTunes (or on whichever app you choose to listen). A brief review about what you liked most about an episode truly helps to keep the show going by exposing it to new listeners. We look forward to continue producing new episodes each week.

Sharing the podcast with your friends and on social media is also extremely helpful and very much appreciated.

Shop 1923 Main Street

Feel free to visit our 1923 Main Street® Disney merchandise shop where we have hundreds of unique and original Disney-inspired t-shirts, leggings, clothing, mugs, phone cases and much more. You'll find everything from 1923 Main Street logo merchandise to custom created authentic Disney-inspired originals, including lots of great patterns for leggings and other items.

Contact 1923 Main Street

Thank you for listening to the Disney Travel News Podcast at 1923MainStreet.com. As always, we love to get feedback and questions from our listeners and to hear your suggestions and ideas for future episodes.

Please be sure to follow along on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Thank you for listening and have a magical day!

Mike Belobradic and Amelia Belobradic

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Media provided by Jamendo