Author Archives: Cody Woodbrey
Disney Cruise Line Unveils New Itineraries for Summer 2017
In 2017, Disney Cruise Line will sail on new itineraries and to new ports, including first-time visits to new destinations in Alaska and Europe. That summer, Disney Cruise Line also returns to Norway, the British Isles, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.
When you travel the world with Disney, you’ll experience impeccable attention to detail, distinctive service and original, award-winning entertainment. Disney Cruise Line truly offers something for everyone—from Broadway-style musicals to family-friendly activities, kids’ clubs, adults-only lounges and more. Your perfect paradise awaits!
In Alaska, you can see Icy Strait Point and Hubbard Glacier. And, in Europe, you’ll have the chance to visit Amsterdam, Netherlands and Portland, England – a short distance from Stonehenge prehistoric monument.
In addition, for the first time, the Disney Fantasy will sail from Port Canaveral on longer itineraries – new 10- and 11-night cruises to the southern Caribbean. Plus, select Disney Dream sailings from Port Canaveral will include two stops at Disney Castaway Cay.
Bookings open to Platinum and Gold Castaway Club Guests April 13 and to all other Guests April 14.
To book or get more information on taking a Disney Cruse, please contact us for a quote. Disney cruises are typically the cheapest the further out you book them.
Itineraries
Alaska
For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will take guests to Alaska’s Icy Strait Point and Hubbard Glacier. These dramatic locations are part of a new nine-night itinerary on the Disney Wonder. Departing from Vancouver, British Columbia, on July 24, 2017, this itinerary also sails to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Tracy Arm Fjord.
Northern Europe
Drift across crystal blue waters and explore scenic cities like St. Petersburg, Helsinki and Stockholm. Plus, stroll through the storybook-like streets of Amsterdam during a new 10-night sailing from Copenhagen to Dover.
Norwegian Fjords
Glide past mystical fjords and colorful coastal homes on a 7-night adventure from Copenhagen to 4 Norwegian towns. Or take a 10-night round-trip from Dover, England, which whisks you to Iceland, Scotland and a pair of captivating Norwegian port cities.
British Isles
Traverse the spectacular Inner and Outer Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland on a 12-night roundtrip adventure out of Dover that travels to ports of call throughout England, France, Germany and Ireland.
Mediterranean
Spice up your summer with a round-trip cruise from Barcelona. Itineraries ranging from 5 to 10 nights invite you to roam the bustling streets of picturesque cities in Spain, Italy and France. And you can reflect on each one’s distinct character as you recharge at sea.
Transatlantic
On May 13, 2017, the Disney Magic embarks on a 15-night transatlantic crossing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Copenhagen, with a stop in Amsterdam along the way. This itinerary also includes a call on Portland, England – another first-time port for Disney Cruise Line. Portland is a short distance from Stonehenge, the prehistoric ring of standing stones monument that is one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World.
Southern Caribbean
Take rest and relaxation to the next level when you choose a brand new 10- or 11-night itinerary from Port Canaveral that transports you to idyllic islands like Aruba, Barbados and Curacao—each boasting a diverse array of land and sea activities.
Eastern Caribbean
Surround yourself with crystal blue waters, powder-soft beaches and nonstop family fun on a 6- to 7-night cruise leading you to treasured islands like Tortola, St. John’s and Castaway Cay.
Western Caribbean
Soak up the natural beauty and vibrant cultures of 3 tropical ports of call—Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica—during a 7-night round-trip cruise from Port Canaveral that includes a fun stop at Castaway Cay.
Bahamas
Navigate your way to the tropical shores of Nassau and Castaway Cay. Plus, enjoy an extra dose of Disney’s private island-a series of 4- and 5-night “double dip” cruises grants you 2 fun-filled stops at this beloved retreat.
Baja
Celebrate something special with a weekend jaunt from San Diego to Ensenada—a captivating city known for its stellar surfing conditions, innovative cuisine and legendary hot springs.
Panama Canal
Savor top-notch amenities aboard a 14-night coast-to-coast cruise that takes you through the world-famous Panama Canal and calls upon 4 blissful port cities in Mexico and Columbia, before you land in San Diego.
Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates for 2016
Walt Disney World has just released the dates for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party for the 2016 season. This is truly the happiest party on the planet. The event is filled with all kinds of fun holiday entertainment and is highly anticipated each year. Your family, like mine, will love the special Christmas Fireworks show, “Holiday Wishes – Celebrate The Spirit of The Season”, the complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, the Celebrate the Season Castle Show and of course all the unique and fun character meet and greets. For full details of the event click on the following link – Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – Full Event Details
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates for 2016
- November 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 18, 27 and 29
- December 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 22
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World this holiday season be sure to contact me for more information and details.
– Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates For 2016
Disney has just released the dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. They have expanded the nights for the party to 29 nights this fall. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is our families favorite events to attend. The event is filled with all kinds of spooktacular entertainment and is one of the most anticipated special events Walt Disney World puts on each year. Your family, like mine, will love the special Villainous Fireworks show “Happy HalloWishes”, Unlimited Trick or Treating, Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, rare character meet and greets and returning again this year “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show. Here you will find some of your favorite Disney Villains, along with Mickey Mouse and his friends, all dressed in their Halloween costumes! Costumes are not required for this event. Dressing up for this event for our family really has added to the magic and excitement of the event… For full details of the event click on the following link – Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – Full Event Details
Mickey’s No-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates for 2016
Here is the full list of this year’s dates:
- September 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, 30
- October 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World during the Halloween season be sure to contact me for more information and deals.
– Cody Woodbrey
Star Wars Day at Sea Returns to Disney Cruise Line in Early 2017
New in 2017, the Disney Fantasy special sailings expand to both eastern and western Caribbean itineraries and nearly double in number to 15 cruises. During this day-long celebration, Star Wars Day at Sea combines the power of the Force and the magic of Disney for an out-of-this-galaxy cruise experience unlike any other.
Each sailing features a full day of dark side and light side fun, including official appearances of Star Wars characters, a deck party and fireworks, Star Wars-themed family and youth activities, at-sea screenings of Star Wars films, unique food and beverage offerings, and special merchandise.
Throughout the day, Star Wars Younglings, Padawans and Jedi Masters alike can enjoy the immersive and intergalactic entertainment, including a deck party and fireworks display, exclusive event merchandise, and specialty Star Wars-themed food and beverage items.
Characters from across the Star Wars galaxy will also be onboard for interactions, photos and also may be seen patrolling the decks. And, in “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” Force-sensitive children learn the ways of the Jedi and use their new-found skill in a final face off with Darth Vader.
Star Wars Day at Sea will be on Disney Fantasy seven-night cruises sailing from Port Canaveral on Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1, 8 and 15, 2017.
Departing Jan. 7, 21; Feb. 4, 18; March 4, 18; April 1 and 15, 2017, the western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; Falmouth, Jamaica; Grand Cayman and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay. Departing Jan. 14, 28; Feb. 11, 25; March 11, 25; and April 8, 2017, the eastern Caribbean itinerary includes Tortola, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay.
Cody Woodbrey
Disney Cruise Line Annouces Two New Ships
We are extremely excited to share that Disney Cruise Line has just announced this morning for plans to build two additional cruise ships, bringing their fleet of ships to six cruise liners. Much like the current ships, both of these ships will continue to showcase Disney’s immersive family style entertainment with enchanting storytelling throughout these cruises.
The two new ships are approximately 135,000 gross tons with about 1,250 guest staterooms, making these ships the larger than both the than the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Like last time, these ships will be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, and are expected to be completed in 2021 and 2023.
The names, deck plans and itineraries have not yet been released but they are sure to surprise and delight their guests. As more information comes available, we will be sure to post again.
Cody Woodbrey
Very Merry Unbirthday Giveaway!
Today is Cody’s birthday, which means it’s time to celebrate! In honor of his real birthday and your Very Merry Unbirthday, Woodbrey Family travel will be giving away $500 towards a future Disney trip! There will also be two runners-up who will win Disney Gift Packages with Disney merchandise. The celebration ends on February 29, 2016. Click here to entered to win the giveaway. Gain an extra entry by donating to the Kellsie’s Hope Foundation, click here to donate.
Here is How to Win
To be eligible for the GRAND PRIZE $500 credit towards a future Disney vacation package, please follow these steps:
1. Fill out the entry form
2. Accept Giveaway Terms and Conditions
3. Like the Woodbrey Family Travel Facebook page 
4. Share the Very Merry Unbirthday Facebook post
The grand prize winner will be chosen from participants who have completed all four steps above.
Two additional winners will be chosen for a Disney Gift Packages with Disney merchandise.
Good Luck and thanks for sharing and may you have a Very Merry Unbirthday!
– Cody Woodbrey
Woodbrey Family Travel Giveaway Official Rules: No Purchase Necessary to Enter or Win. Some restrictions may apply. The Woodbrey Family Travel: Happy Unbirthday Giveaway (“Contest”) runs from 2:00 p.m. Mountain Time (MT) on February 3, 2016 until 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time (MT) on February 29, 2016. Contest is sponsored by Woodbrey Family Travel. This Contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Twitter. You understand that you are providing your information to Woodbrey Family Travel and not to Facebook or Twitter. Eligibility: The Contest must be over eighteen years of age as of the beginning of the Contest. Contest is subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations. How to Enter: To enter, you must do the following; 1: Each participant must fill out the entire entry form with his or her information 2: Accept Giveaway Terms and Conditions. 3: Be a fan of Woodbrey Family Travel on Facebook and/or Twitter. 4: Share the Very Merry Ubirthday Facebook post. Participants must enter to win by February 29, 2016 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced within 48 hours. Prizes: There will be one grand prize winner of a $500 credit to use towards a future Disney Vacation Package. There will be two additional winners of whom will win a Disney Gift Package with Disney merchandise. Attempts made by the same individual to submit multiple entries by using multiple or false contact information, including multiple Facebook or Twitter accounts, may be disqualified. The $500 credit can only be used through bookings with Woodbrey Family Travel. When using the $500 credit for a Disney Theme park package, the winner must include; 2 Day Park hopper tickets, hotel, Disney dining and must be greater than 3 nights. Notification: Winners will be notified through social media or by email. In the event of non-compliance of these Official Rules, or if the prize is unclaimed, the prize will be forfeited and awarded to an alternate winner. By accepting any prize, the winner consents to the use of his or her name, likeness and any other information of any and all advertising/publicity purposes without further consideration, except where prohibited by law, and without any additional compensation. The winner expressly waives the right to review any and all advertising bearing his or her name, photograph, likeness, and titles prior to their use. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND RELEASE. 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SHOULD WOODBREY FAMILY TRAVEL CHOOSE NOT TO ENFORCE ANY TERM OF THESE OFFICIAL RULES, IT SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE A WAIVER OF THAT PROVISION. Governing Law and Disputes: All participants agree to abide by these Official Rules and by the decisions of Woodbrey Family Travel. This Contest is governed by the laws of the state of Utah. All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. Sponsors reserve the right to terminate or modify the Contest in its sole discretion. Except where prohibited, all participants agree that: (1) any and all disputes, claims and causes of action arising out of or connected with this Contest or any prize awarded shall be resolved individually, without resort to any form of class action, and exclusively by the United States District Court for the District of Utah; (2) any and all claims, judgments and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering this Contest, but in no event, attorneys’ fees; and (3) under no circumstances will participants be permitted to obtain awards for, and participant hereby waives all rights to claim, indirect, punitive, incidental and consequential damages and any other damages, other than for actual out-of-pocket expenses, and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of the entrant and Sponsor in connection with the Contest, shall be governed by, and accordance with, the laws of the State of Utah without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules, which would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the State of Utah. Miscellaneous. Contest prizes are non-transferrable and prizes may not be substituted for or redeemed for cash. All decisions of Woodbrey Family Travel with respect to the contest are final. At Woodbrey Family Travel’s discretion, it reserves the right to cancel or modify the Contest if fraud or technical problems bring into question the integrity of the Contest.
New Star Wars Experiences Arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The Force is strong at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with an addition of all new Star Wars-inspired entertainment and shopping experiences.
Star Wars Launch Bay
At the all new Star Wars Launch Bay, guests can interact with some of their favorite Star Wars characters by choosing to encounter the Dark Side in a Star Destroyer themed area, or visit with the brave Rebels in a makeshift Rebel Base. One path leads to Darth Vader, while the other leads to Chewbacca.
The Launch Bay also includes two different exhibits – Celebration Gallery and Celebration Hallway to view iconic ships from the Rebel Alliance and Imperial Navy fleet, as well as replica Star Wars props and murals. Guests excited for the upcoming film Star Wars: The Force Awakens can head to Preview Gallery to explore an area filled with costumes, artwork, models and more from the new film. And of course, guests will be able to shop at the Launch Bay Cargo, where they can shop a variety of Star Wars merchandise, including original artwork.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
This well know attraction has been enhanced to feature new characters and adventures from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Including minor additions to older adventures so be sure to keep an eye out for those extra touches.
Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple
The popular Jedi Training is back and ready for guests to experience something a little different and new. In this experience, Younglings join with the rebel alliance as young Padawans and learn how to become a Jedi at the Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple. This popular offering also has been enhanced to feature new characters, including a new villain – the Seventh Sister Inquisitor from Star Wars.
Star Wars: Path of the Jedi
For those who may not be up-to-date on the Star Wars film franchise, will have the opportunity to do so at the Star Wars: Path of the Jedi. Here, guests can view an abridged cinematic reel that reviews Star Wars episodes I-VII.
Galactic Food
All New Star Wars-inspired food items have been added to menus throughout the park. These menu items will include foods such as Blue Milk Panna Cotta, Padawan Limeade, BB-8 Lemon and Butter Cream Cupcakes, and much more.
“Symphony In The Stars: A Galactic Spectacular”
Blasting off on December 18, 2015 an all new nightly firework show, “Symphony In The Stars: A Galactic Spectacular” will be added to the line up of great entertainment.
Starting January the 6th, guest will be able watch the fireworks from a reserved viewing area during a special dessert party – “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party.” There will be Star Wars-themed desserts and drinks. Guest will also receive a souvenir stein featuring one of the most beloved Star Wars characters, Chewbacca.
– Cody Woodbrey
After Dark at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Pandora – The World of AVATAR
As part of the largest expansion in the park’s history, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will immerse guests into the world of Pandora, and the entire park will transform after dark with new nighttime entertainment experiences, offering guests longer days than ever before to experience this one-of-a-kind theme park.
- “Rivers of Light” – Expected to open next spring, “Rivers of Light” will be an innovative experience unlike anything ever seen in a Disney park, combining live performers, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery.
- Kilimanjaro Safaris® – This popular attraction will be extended for a new nighttime adventure next spring, where guests will travel through the African savanna amid the magically extended orange glow of the setting sun and discover two species new to the attraction: African wild dogs and hyenas.
- Pandora – The World of AVATAR – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Guests will journey into the magnificent world of Pandora at this new AVATAR-themed land – a world that includes floating mountains, a bioluminescent forest and the winged creatures known as Banshees, giving guests a transformational experience they will never forget.
- AVATAR Flight of Passage – This E-ticket attraction, the centerpiece of Pandora, allows guests to soar on a Banshee over a vast alien world. The spectacular flying experience will give guests a birds-eye view of the beauty and grandeur of the world of Pandora on an aerial rite of passage.
– Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade – 2015 Photo Gallery
Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade at the Magic Kingdom is fun for the whole family and is one of my favorite parades to watch. This parade goes along the streets of the Magic Kingdom twice each night during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party with the first one starting at 8:35 p.m. and the second one starting at 11:15 p.m. When choosing which parade to go to, I highly recommend watching the second parade because more guests watch the first parade, making it a lot more crowded. To start off the parade the Headless Horseman rides down the streets, which is pretty cool to see! Shortly afterwards you will see amazing floats decorated in all things Halloween, such as Characters dressed in costumes, grave diggers dragging their shovels, villains being bad, pirates scavenging for loot, and many more fun and exciting things to see. Below you will see some of the photos and a link to the photos I took during my last two visits. I hope you enjoy looking looking at this fun and spooky parade photos.
– Cody Woodbrey
Click Here to View the Full Photo Gallery
Hocus Pocus Villain Spelitacular – 2015
“Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” is the newest spooky addition to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom Park. The mischievous Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” return for one night during the Halloween season. With only a few hours to run amuck, the three sisters decide to use their magic to throw the best, evil Halloween party this side of the graveyard!
“Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” features appearances by Dr. Facilier, Oogie Boogie, Hades, Maleficent and other great Disney villains, along with dancers, projections and special effects that combine to make this new show a not-to-be-missed Halloween treat.
This new show really is the highlight of the Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. l enjoyed watching the show so much, I saw it five times between the two parties I attended. With having a great story line, the Sanderson sisters and the amazing performers, this show is by far the best thing this party has had in years. This answers the question, “Is the Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party worth the extra money?”… Yes, its worth every penny.
Below are some of the pictures I took while on my visit. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed taking them!
– Cody Woodbrey
Spider-Man Arrives at Disneyland Park Nov. 16 in the New Super Hero HQ
With the opening of the New Super Hero HQ this fall at Disneyland Park, everyone’s favorite web slinger is swinging in for the occasion. That’s right! Spider-Man will be making his Disneyland Resort debut in a heroic new character greeting location, where guests can snap a photo, get an autograph or shake hands with the hero himself.
The Super Hero HQ will also be the location where guests will be able to meet some of their other super heroes like Thor of Asgard and Captain America. Guests will also be able to virtually suit up as Iron Man and check out the Hall of Armor at Iron Man Tech Presented by Stark Industries, play some of the latest video games and buy some Super Hero gear to take with them on their journey home.
Stay tuned for more information on the New Super Hero HQ!
– Cody Woodbrey
Disney Cruise Line Unveils Ports and Itineraries for Early 2017
In early 2017, Disney Cruise Line returns to favorite destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas on a variety of itineraries, most from popular Florida ports. Limited-time engagements in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Galveston, Texas, complete the line-up for the first part of the year.
During these sailings, you will visit timeless tropical locales, dive into charming island cultures, sunbathe on golden beaches and revel in local marketplaces. Most cruises feature a stop at Disney Castaway Cay, a private island paradise reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line Guests.
Bookings open Gold and Platinum Castaway Club Members on Oct. 7, 2015 and to the public on Oct. 8.
Port Canaveral
With three of Disney ships in port and cruises spanning from three to seven nights, you have a full line up of options from Port Canaveral in early 2017. The best part? Every sailing includes a day at Castaway Cay!
The Disney Fantasy will continue to sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages, while the Disney Dream continues on three- and four-night cruises to Nassau and Castaway Cay. Beginning January 29, the Disney Wonder will alternate similar three- and four-night itineraries.
Miami
The Disney Magic continues sailing from Miami with three to five-night voyages to the Bahamas, plus select five-night Western Caribbean cruises, through March 31. Castaway Cay awaits guests aboard every one of these Disney Magic sailings! Other Bahamian ports of call include Nassau and Key West, while a stop in Grand Cayman or Cozumel headlines the Western Caribbean itineraries.
San Juan and Galveston
From San Juan, the Disney Magic sets sail on four seven-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean. Departing April 9, 16, 23 and 30, this limited-time engagement includes calls on Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, Antigua and St. Kitts.
The Disney Wonder completes a season in Galveston with two seven-night Bahamian voyages to Key West, Castaway Cay and Nassau on January 6 and 13. From there, the ship embarks on a six-night journey to San Juan on January 20 with stops in Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica. Also, on January 26, a three-night cruise aboard the Disney Wonder takes guests from San Juan to Port Canaveral.
Stay tuned for more information on Disney Cruises sailing in 2017.
– Cody Woodbrey
Season of the Force Begins Nov. 16 at Disneyland Park
Disney is excited to debut all-new Star Wars experiences at Disneyland Park in Southern California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida in the coming months.
Beginning Nov. 16, 2015, guests visiting Disneyland Park will have the chance to jump to lightspeed with Season of the Force, featuring opportunities to meet some of their favorite Star Wars characters, experience an exciting twist on a favorite attraction and more.
Opening at Disneyland Park on Nov. 16 will be:
- Star Wars Launch Bay – This new area will offer opportunities to visit with favorite Star Wars characters, special exhibits, peeks at the upcoming Star Wars: The Force Awakens and much more.
- Star Tours – The Adventures Continue – This popular attraction will feature a new scene inspired by the upcoming film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
- Jedi Training Academy : Trials of the Temple – Coming in December, a twist on the Jedi Training experience will introduce new characters and a new villain from the popular Disney X D series, Star Wars Rebels.
- Hyperspace Mountain – For a limited time, guests will join an X-wing starfighter battle in this reimagining of the classic Space Mountain attraction.
- Other limited-time experiences include:
- An opportunity to revisit favorite scenes from classic Star Wars films at Tomorrowland Theater.
- Special themed food and beverage, merchandise and entertainment.
Disney will have release dates to share soon for Season of the Force at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.
Disney Parks is also preparing to take guests to a galaxy far, far away with new Star Wars-themed lands. With groundbreaking scheduled to take place in 2016 for our largest single-land expansions ever, building the new 14-acre lands will be major projects at both Disneyland Park in Southern California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.
Work to make room for this new land at Disneyland Park in California will require the Rivers of America and the Disneyland Railroad to close temporarily. The following will suspend operations at the end of the operating day on Jan. 10, 2016:
- The Disneyland Railroad, including all stations
- Attractions along the Rivers of America, including:
- “Fantasmic!”
- Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia
- Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
- Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes
Elsewhere in Frontierland, Big Thunder Ranch – including Big Thunder Ranch Barbecue, Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm and Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree – will close permanently at the end of the operating day on Jan. 10, 2016.
Stay tuned for more details on Season of the Force!
– Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – 2015 Full Event Details
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of my favorite events to attend. This event is filled with all kinds of spooktacular entertainment and is one of the most anticipated special events of the year. Your family, like mine, will love the special Villainous Fireworks show, “Happy HalloWishes”, Unlimited Trick or Treating, Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, Hocus Pocus Villain Spelitacular and of course all the different character meet and greets. Here you will find some of your favorite Disney Villains, along with Mickey Mouse and his friends, all dressed in their Halloween costumes! Costumes are not required for this event but definitely encouraged. Dressing up for this event for our family really has added to the magic and excitement of the event.
Mickey’s Trick-or-Treat Trails – Treats include apple slices, carrots, raisins, dried fruit, and of course, a variety of chocolates and other candies. Trust me when I say you will leave the party with several pounds of candy. The Trick-or-Treat trails are all over the park, and cast members hand out handfuls of treats. You can go back to the same locations for treats all you want.
Hocus Pocus Villain Spelitacular – In “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular,” the mischievous Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” return to the mortal world for one night during the Halloween season. With only a few hours to run amuck, the three sisters decide to use their magic to throw the best, evil Halloween party this side of the graveyard!
With the help of the Disney villains, Winifred, Mary and Sarah gather together sinister shadows, nefarious nightmares and the power of their frightful friends to conjure the ultimate Hocus Pocus Party Potion and cast a spell on everyone in the Magic Kingdom Park. “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” features appearances by Dr. Facilier, Oogie Boogie, Maleficent and other great Disney villains, along with dancers, projections and special effects that combine to make this new show a not-to-be-missed Halloween treat. This show runs 4 nights during the party with the first one starting at 8:35 p.m., 9:20 p.m., 10:40 p.m. and 12:00 pm.
Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade – Each Halloween party has two parades, the first one starting at 8:35 p.m. and the second one starting at 11:15 p.m. I highly recommend going to the second parade because more guests watch the first parade, making it a lot more crowded. Ralph and Venelope from Wreck-it Ralph start the parade off with a pre parade to get things exciting and fun. Soon after the pre parade the Headless Horseman takes off through the streets to get the parade started, which is awesome to see! Shortly afterwards you will see amazing floats decorated in all things Halloween, such as Characters dressed in costumes, grave diggers dragging their shovels, villains being bad, pirates playing with their loot, and many more fun and exciting things
Celebrate The Magic – Each night Cinderella’s Royal Castle comes to life as Disney Imagineers create a new way of storytelling. They use Cinderella’s beautiful castle as the canvas of telling the stories of some of your favorite Disney movies. Celebrate the Magic is a great preshow to the fireworks. It’s an exciting show the whole family will enjoy and I highly recommend watching it. The show plays nightly right before and after the fireworks spectacular at 9:45 p.m.
Happy HalloWishes – These fireworks start at 10:00 p.m. in front of Cinderella’s castle. None other than your ghost host from the Haunted Mansion hosts this “Happy HalloWishes” Fireworks Spooktacular show. Flames, fireworks and a remix of your favorite Disney villain’s theme music all come together to make this a don’t-miss firework show. These fireworks, which are different than the regular fireworks done during the week, are absolutely amazing and are my favorite to watch!
“Celebrate The Magic” & “Happy HalloWishes” Fireworks Tips – For the best view of Celebrate The Magic, stand between the Refreshment Corner on Main Street and the main hub in front of the castle (the circular area where Walt Disney’s statue is). I would not stand between the hub and the castle because the castle will partially block your view of the fireworks. The closer you get to Casey’s Corner, the better your view will be. Main Street U.S.A. is also a good spot to view the shows.
Face Painting – Disney provides free face painting during the parties. The lines to get your face painted can get long really quick. The face painting is done between Space Mountain and the Dance stage in Tomorrowland.
The Cadaver Dans – Head over to Frontierland and listen to a deadly group of cowboys singing songs in the style of the Dapper Dans.
Specialty Food – Halloween party exclusive treats are sold throughout the park. Goodies available include spiced Pumpkin Waffle Sundae at Sleepy Hallow, Specialty Cupcakes and cookies at the Main Street Bakery, Ghost Cupcakes at Gaston’s Tavern, Candy Corn Soft-serve ice Cream at Storybook Treats, and Candy Corn Cotton Candy at several of the outdoor carts. These treats really are pretty good. You have to try at least one of them if not several of them.
Exclusive Merchandise – Disney sells exclusive merchandise during the parties such as t-shirts, Disney trading pins, new Magic bands and more. The Emporium and Mickey’s Star Traders are the only two places that sell the exclusive merchandise. You can buy other Disney Halloween-themed merchandise during the day as well.
The Monstrous Scream-O-Ween Ball Dance Party – This dance party is a great way to take a load off and dance the night away with some of your favorite Monstrous characters. Select Disney Characters come out and dance with everyone; however, they usually don’t stop and take pictures and don’t sign autographs at the dance parties.
Character Meet and Greets
There are 39 possible characters that do meet and greets, and there are 11 characters at the Dance parties, which totals 50 characters that you will be able to visit in some way. Below is a list of the meet and greet characters for the party.
Costumed Characters – Keep your eyes open, because you never know whom you’ll see–but will you recognize them? Your beloved Disney Characters will be dressed up in their best costumes, and Disney Villains will be out in full force. It was fun to see them all in their different costumes. Just make sure you don’t forget your camera!
Extremely Popular Characters
Jack Skellington & Sally – Located in Main Street, U.S.A. next to City Hall; Greeting Tip: The line to meet them starts forming about 5:30 p.m. If you wait until the party starts you could spend up to 2 ½ hours waiting to see them, which will take up half of the party.
Seven Dwarfs – Located in Fantasyland next to the great walls in Fantasyland beyond the Carousel; Greeting Tip: The line to meet the Seven Dwarf’s starts about 6:15 p.m. The line can extend up to 2 hours. If you want to see both Jack & Sally and the Seven Dwarfs, wait to do the meet and greet for the dwarfs later in the evening; however, don’t wait too long, because they will cut off the line early.
Captain Jack Sparrow – Located in Adventureland across the pathway from Pirates of Caribbean attraction; Greeting Tip: The line to meet Jack starts about 6:15 p.m. The line will extend up to about 2 hours. Great time to meet Jack is during the parade. I would skip the first parade and meet Jack and go to the second parade, which usually has the smaller crowds.
Princess Anna & Queen Elsa – Located in Fantasyland at Princess Fairytale Hall; They do meet and greets here all day. If you want to meet them I would do it during the day before the party starts. Their line will be at least 2 hours long.
Moderately Popular Characters
Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet & Eeyore – Located next to the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction; They typically don’t start meeting guests until about a half hour after the party starts. These characters are dressed up in their Halloween costumes. Only Winnie the Pooh and Tigger do meet and greets during the day, and they are not dressed up at that time.
Tarzan, Jane & Terk – Located in Adventureland just past the bridge on the right side on the Verandah; Tarzan & Jane are not out with each other the whole time. For every hour there is about 15 minutes they are not together. Terk is out for the entire time.
Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu & the Genie – Located in Adventureland in the building across the path from the Swiss Family Tree house; Aladdin & Abu come out together, and Jasmine and the Genie come out together. They switch off with each other. They do have about 5 minutes where you will get all four at once, but it is hard to time it just right.
Mad Hatter, Alice, the White Rabbit & the Queen of Hearts – Located in Fantasyland near the Tea cups; The Wonderland characters switch with each other throughout the party. Alice & the White Rabbit do meet and greets earlier in the day.
The Witch or Hag – Located in Fantasyland near the bridge by the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Jafar – Located in Adventureland across from the Flying Carpets
Lotso-Huggin Bear & Buzzlight Year – Located in Tomorrowland between the Carousel of progress and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin; Buzz meets during the day, but Lotso only comes out for the party
Easier To Meet Characters
Mickey Mouse – Located in Main Street, U.S.A in the Town Square Theatre; Mickey meets here regularly, but during the Halloween Party he dresses in his Halloween costume
Minnie Mouse – Located in Fantasyland near the entrance of the circus; Minnie Mouse is dressed in her Halloween costume for the party
Goofy – Located in Fantasyland near the entrance of the circus; Goofy is dressed in his Halloween costume for the party
Gaston – Located in Fantasyland near Gaston’s Tavern; Meets guests during the regular day here
Cinderella & Rapunzel – Located in Fantasyland at Princess Fairytale Hall; Meets guests during the regular day here
Snow White & Aurora – Located in Fantasyland next to the great walls in Fantasyland beyond the Carousel; Meets guests during the regular day in Town Square
Princess Tiana- Located in Liberty Square behind the Christmas Shop; Meets guests during the regular day here
Donald & Daisy – Located in Fantasyland near the entrance of the circus; Both are dressed in their Halloween costume for the party
Tinker Bell – Located in Main Street, U.S.A in the Town Square Theatre; Meets guests during the regular day here
Ariel – Located in Fantasyland next to Ariel’s Grotto; Meets guests during the regular day
Merida – Located in Fantasyland at the Fairytale Garden; Meets guests during the regular day
Additional Meet and Greet Tips – I would meet the characters that are out during the day before the party starts and get the rare characters during the party. There really isn’t enough time during the party to see all the characters. Your tickets get you into the park starting at 4:00 p.m., which gives you an extra 3 hours in the parks. Remember to get into line early for those really popular characters so you don’t waste your whole party waiting for only a couple of characters.
There you have it one of the best events Walt Disney World puts on each year. This event is worth the extra cost and I highly recommend going. If you want more information on the event or want to plan a trip to Walt Disney World, please contact me.
– Cody Woodbrey
New “Frozen”-Inspired Stage Musical Coming to Disney California Adventure Park
In the summer of 2016 at the Disneyland Resort, “Frozen” will come to life in an all-new theatrical production at the Hyperion Theater at Disney California Adventure Park. This new show will immerse guests in the world of “Frozen” as never before, with elaborate costumes and sets, stunning special effects and surprising scenic transformations.
With a new show set to open at the Hyperion Theater, the award-winning “Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular” will prepare to take its final curtain call on Jan. 10, 2016, so be sure to see Aladdin before it closes.
– Cody Woodbrey
Woodbrey Family Travel Blog 