Mickey’s Halloween Party at the Disneyland Park – 2015
This event is filled with all kinds of spooktacular entertainment and is one of the most anticipated special events of the year. Join your family with a Villainous Fireworks show, popular seasonal attractions, such as the transformation of the Haunted Mansion into the beloved Nightmare Before Christmas Haunted Mansion Holiday, and Space Mountain into Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. 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.
Main Street Pumpkin Festival
In the center of Town Square you’ll find a 12-foot high Mickey ‘jack-o’-lantern’, complete with pumpkin ears. As you make your way down Main Street U.S.A., you will see over 300 different carved pumpkins on display in the shop windows.
Big Thunder Ranch Halloween Carnival
This is one of my family’s favorite places to visit during the day before the Halloween party starts. Here you’ll find your favorite Disney characters in Halloween costumes, special entertainment, pumpkin carvers, activities, merchandise, treats, and this year, the Halloween Carnival is where you will find your favorite Disney Villains. Live entertainment will be provided while you make your own Halloween mask at the craft station or try your hand at carnival games; and don’t miss the Magic Cauldron Sideshow, where you can cast a magic spell to conjure up a Disney Villain.
Haunted Mansion Holiday
The bakers at the Disneyland Resort come together each year to create an original gingerbread house for the ballroom scene. Last year’s gingerbread house was perched on a tall and spindly mountain featuring a flying Zero and a ghost train. At 9 feet tall, it was one of the tallest they’ve ever built. The Haunted Mansion will also be transformed into a Tim Burton ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ theme.
Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy
As always this year, Space Mountain will be transformed into “Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy!” Move through space and experience surprises around every corner. Typically, it is best to do the attractions during the day. This will allow you to have more time seeing all the extras of the party and to see more cool and rare characters. If you only have tickets for the party, you will still be able to get into the park at 4:00 p.m., which will allow you to do the attractions before the party starts.
Toontown Treat Pre-Party starts at 6:00 pm
Event guests may enjoy some spooky fun in Mickey’s Towntoon, even before the party starts. Where early Trick-or-Treating Witches & Wizards will greet guests. Line up for the pre-party 30-45-minutes before it starts. This will help you get through the lines a lot quicker, you’ll get more candy, and you’ll have time to see all the characters. The characters you will see for the pre-party are Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, Donald Duck, Chip n’ Dale, Clarabelle Cow, and Roger Rabbit. Roger Rabbit and Clarabelle Cow only come out for this pre-party. This was so much fun, and it definitely kicked off the night on a high note. We saw so many characters and got loads of treats before the party even started.
A Villainous Surprise in the Skies Fireworks’ runs nightly at 9:30 p.m
This “Halloween Screams” Fireworks Spooktacular show is hosted by none other than Jack Skellington. Flames, fireworks and great 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!
Mickey’s Tick-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.
Halloween Treats
Halloween party treats are sold throughout the park, with exclusive Haunted Mansion treats at The French Market and Café Orleans! Goodies available include Silly Halloween Caramel Apples, Pumpkin Muffins topped with Cream, Mickey Halloween Cookies, Hot Caramel Apple Cider, and Pumpkin Cheesecake!
Dance Party
Take a load off and dance the night away with some of your favorite Disney characters at the night’s dance party event in Tomorrowland. Select Disney Characters come out and dance with everyone; however, they will not stop and take pictures or sign autographs at the dance 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. During our last visit we saw Mickey and his friends dressed up in four different costumes from 4:00 p.m. to the end of the party. It was fun to see all of their different costumes. Just make sure you don’t forget your camera!
List of some of the characters doing meet n’ greets at the party
(May change without notice)
Phineas & Ferb – Innoventions in Tomorrowland; Aladdin Jasmine & Genie – Aladdin’s Oasis; Jack Skellington & Sally – French Market; Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Rabbit & Eeyore– Critter Country; Jack Sparrow, Peter Pan, Wendy & Captain Hook – “Pirates Wharf” – Mark Twain & Sailing Ship Columbia Dock; Stormtroopers – Little Green Men Store Command; Toy Story Characters – Big Thunder Ranch; Mickey & Minnie Mouse – Big Thunder Ranch; Merida – “it’s a small world” Promenade; Disney Villains – Main Street USA/Next to the Train Station; Here are the villains – Maleficent, Cruella De Vile, Dr. Facilie, Hades, Evil Queen, Queen of Hearts, & Jafar; Disney Princesses – Fantasy Faire Hall, The Princesses will be with their princess.
Additional Party Tips
The Disney Villains, Phineas & Ferb, Stormtroopers, and the princes can only be seen during the Halloween party. You can see the rest of the characters during the day, which will leave you more time to enjoy the rest of the party, or to see even more characters. You can also see a few other villains at the Big Thunder Ranch during the day, along with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, and Chip n’ Dale in their costumes.
Mickey’s Halloween Party 2015 dates
Friday, Sept. 25; Monday, Sept. 28; Wednesday, Sept. 30; Friday, Oct. 2; Monday, Oct. 5; Wednesday, Oct. 7; Friday, Oct. 9; Monday, Oct. 12; Wednesday, Oct. 14; Friday, Oct. 16; Monday, Oct. 19; Thursday, Oct. 22; Friday, Oct. 23; Sunday, Oct. 25; Tuesday, Oct. 27; Thursday, Oct. 29; and Saturday, Oct. 31.
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, please contact me for more information and deals.
– Cody Woodbrey
Cody’s Summer Raffle and Promotions are Here!
Woodbrey Family Travel is excited to announced his Summer Promotion and Raffle!
Each summer, Woodbrey Family Travel has a big incentive for those who book Disney vacations in the month of July and August along with a Big Summer RAFFLE that takes place on his Facebook page. The details on how to enter the raffle and the booking offer are below.
Big Summer Raffle Details
Who doesn’t like to win FREE Disney merchandise just for commenting and sharing Facebook posts?! I know I do and here is your chance to do exactly that. Throughout the month of July until August 9th, share and comment on the new posts that are made. Each time you do so you will get an entry into the raffle to win Disney Merchandise. You could win one or several of the gifts in the above picture. Some posts will be worth double or triple entries so keep an eye out for those ones. If you book a Disney trip before August 9th you will automatically get 5 extra entries. There will be multiple winners!
Booking Incentives Details
When you book ANY Disney vacation package with Woodbrey Family Travel between now and August 9th, you will receive all sorts of extra Disney themed gifts when you book your trip. Below you will find the extra gifts that are given for each Disney Destination. Make sure to mention this blog or code DisneySummerGift to qualify for the extra gifts… So where will you be vacationing this next year?
Walt Disney World Vacation Package Gifts
Lanyards, Luggage Tags, Trading Pins, Disney Activity Book (Packages with kids)
Disney Autograph Book and Pen or Disney Activity Pack (One Per Child), Disney Key Chains (One Per Adult), Disney Crayons Disney (One Per Child), Toy Story Tsum Tsum
Disney Mini Golf Voucher, Planet Hollywood Souvenir Voucher (One per package)
Planet Hollywood $15 Meal Voucher (One per Package), Walt Disney Travel Savings book – Special offerings and savings at many participating dining and merchandise locations throughout the Downtown Disney shopping area – “Disney Springs.”
Disneyland Vacation Package Gifts
Diamond Anniversary Lanyards, Diamond Anniversary Luggage Tags, Diamond Anniversary Trading Pins, Disney Diamond Anniversary Activity Book (Packages with kids), Disney Diamond Anniversary Pen, Disney Diamond Anniversary Magnet, Toy Story Tsum Tsum, $10 ESPN Game Card, Free 5X7 photopass Photo (Photo can be either an attractions photo or one from the park), Disney Autograph Book and Pen or Disney Activity Pack (One Per Child), Disney Key Chains (One Per Adult)
Disney Crayons Disney (One Per Child), Walt Disney Travel Savings Card – A special card offering savings and values at many participating dining and merchandise locations throughout the Disneyland Resort and Early Entrance into Disneyland as long as you have 3 days or more.
Disney Cruise Line Vacation Package Gifts
$30 Onboard Credit, Disney Lanyards
Disney Trading Pins, Disney Activity Book (Packages with kids), Disney Autograph Book and Pen or Disney Activity Pack (One Per Child), Disney Key Chains (One Per Adult)
Disney Crayons Disney (One Per Child), Disney Dry Erase Board, Disney Playing Card, Toy Story Tsum Tsum, Disney’s Frozen String Bag and a Disney’s Frozen Kids Purse
Aulani Vacation Gifts
Disney Lanyards, Disney Trading Pins, Disney Activity Book (Packages with kids), Disney Autograph Book and Pen or Disney Activity Pack (One Per Child), Disney Key Chains (One Per Adult), Disney Crayons Disney (One Per Child), Disney Playing Card, Toy Story Tsum Tsum, Disney’s Frozen String Bag, Disney’s Frozen Kids Purse, Disney Chalk Board and a $30 booking Credit (Must be at least 6 nights)
Adventures by Disney Vacation Gifts
Disney Lanyards, Disney Trading Pins, Adventures by Disney Luggage Tags, Adventures by Disney laptop bag, Adventures by Disney, Disney Activity Book (Packages with kids), Disney Autograph Book and Pen or Disney Activity Pack (One Per Child), Disney Key Chains (One Per Adult), Disney Crayons Disney (One Per Child), Toy Story Tsum Tsum, Disney’s Frozen String Bag, Disney’s Frozen Kids Purse and a $50 booking credit (Must book at least a 6 night trip)
I hope, as you look to future Disney adventures, that you will think of Woodbrey Family Travel when planning. Remember, at Woodbrey Family Travel, my services are absolutely free. Disney takes care of me with no extra cost to you. I am a current Disney cast member and know Disney travel extremely well and I promise you will have the best possible trip planned when booking with us.
– Cody Woodbrey
“Frozen” Summer Fun Cools Down Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Frozen Summer Fun is back at Disney’s Hollywood Studios from June 17 – September 7, 2015! Enjoy a Frozen fireworks show, royal welcome, sing-along celebration, DJ dance party, special merchandise and food & beverage offerings.
“Frozen” Summer Fun highlights include:
“Frozen” Royal Welcome
You can watch and wave as Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf make their way through Disney’s Hollywood Studios twice daily in a festive cavalcade, accompanied by the Royal Arendelle Flag Corps and a flurry of skaters, skiers and ice cutters. Anna leads the procession in a horse-drawn sleigh, as Elsa glides by on a stunning ice palace float.
For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration
Just in time for “Frozen” Summer Fun, this popular show moves into the beautiful Hyperion Theater (formerly Superstar Television Theater), located right in the heart of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here, you can join the Royal Historians of Arendelle as they host this fun and comedic retelling of the unique story of their kingdom, filled with delightful, sing-along moments from “Frozen,” plus all-new theater effects and special appearances by Anna, Elsa and Kristoff.
Olaf’s Summer Cool Down
As the temperature heats up, you can cool off with Olaf who happily shares a burst of flurries from his personal snow cloud. Here you will see Olaf sing his one is favorite summer songs.
“Coolest Summer Ever” Dance Party
When the sun goes down, DJ Chill and some favorite Disney Characters take to the stage for the “Coolest Summer Ever” Dance Party where you can rock out to a medley of the hottest “Frozen” hits!
“Frozen” Fireworks Spectacular
As the night comes to a close, you can celebrate the coolest day ever as Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf come together at the Event Stage for a grand finale to the day’s festivities – an awe-inspiring “Frozen” Fireworks display set to the music of “Frozen” and, of course, a flurry of snow.
If you are looking for something extra special to do, you can enjoy a day fit for Arendelle royalty with the “Frozen” Summer Fun Premium Package, which includes royal viewing access to a trio of these experiences. Each package includes:
- Reserved viewing for “Frozen” Royal Welcome – complete with regal refreshments, including soft drinks and ice cream.
- Reserved seating for a choice of one show time of For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration.”
- “Frozen” Fireworks Spectacular viewing with dessert party, featuring Frozen-themed desserts, as well as specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
The cost for the package is $69 for adults, $39 for children ages 3-9. Tax and gratuity are included.
– Cody Woodbrey
Very Merrytime with Disney Cruise Line
This holiday season, delight in magical merriment at sea with Very Merrytime Cruises—a Disney Cruise Line event-available on the following sailings.
Holiday Cheer at Castaway Cay
A winter wonderland awaits you aboard each ship—as well as at Castaway Cay!
Disney’s private island paradise is transformed with “snow” flurries, a Christmas tree and more. Be on the lookout for Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, dressed in their island attire. Plus, the island’s tram is decorated to resemble a reindeer, complete with antlers and a tail.
Onboard Experiences
On the ship, discover a festive fusion of holiday-themed entertainment, activities and décor—with a life-sized gingerbread house, 24-foot Christmas tree, garlands, poinsettias, shimmering lights and more!
Other holiday enhancements include:
- Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party, a celebration in addition to Pirate Night, with candy-cane limbo, dancing and games
- Tree Lighting Ceremony, where kids can help light the tree and kick off the holiday festivities
- Santa Claus meet-and-greet, an exciting opportunity to take family pictures and see Santa
- Meet-and-Greets with some favorite Disney Characters, dressed in their holiday attire
- Teen-only and tween-only holiday parties—private celebrations where teens and tweens can hang out with new friends
- Holiday storytelling, with new and old tales about holidays at sea and around the world
- Themed activities and crafts for kids—decorate stockings, make holiday cards, go on a holiday scavenger hunt and more
- A life-sized gingerbread house made completely with edible ingredients—and the opportunity to make your own gingerbread house*
- Holiday merchandise available for this event
On December 24 and 25, enjoy additional holiday experiences:
- Cookies on Christmas Eve
- Special holiday towel animals
- Special holiday surprise
- Holiday caroling with the kids and crew
- Religious Services
Very Merrytime Sailings:
Disney Magic: November 11 – December 23, 2015
Disney Wonder: November 6 – December 24, 2015
Disney Dream: November 9 – December 24, 2015
Disney Fantasy November 14 – December 19 2015
– Cody Woodbrey
Halloween on the High Seas with Disney Cruise Line
Discover treats, tricks, magical mischief and spooky surroundings as you celebrate Halloween on the High Seas! Thrills and chills await you at every turn with Halloween-themed parties, lively entertainment and elaborate décor-including an evolving Halloween Tree that eerily transforms throughout your cruise.
Special experiences include:
- Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party—an atrium party scare-a-bration in addition to Pirate Night—with ghoulish games, trick-or-treating, dancing and some favorite Disney Pals in their Halloween attire
- Halloween-themed activities for all ages, such as mask-making for kids and pumpkin-carving for teens
- Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream, an interactive movie experience where you’re part of the action, followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack and Sally
- Haunted Stories of the Sea—a campfire-style storytelling experience on the top deck
- Halloween movie marathon to get you in the spirit, shown on Funnel Vision and on the dedicated in-room television channel
- Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids—an adults-only party that includes a costume contest
Halloween Sailings:
Disney Magic: October 4 – October 28, 2015
Disney Wonder: October 1 – October 23, 2015
Disney Dream: September 7 – October 30, 2015
Disney Fantasy September 5 – October 31, 2015
– Cody Woodbrey
Disneyland’s 60th Anniversary Ins & Outs: “Disneyland Forever” Firework Spectacular
Disneyland has done it again! They have created a firework show that will leave you completely in awe. With the largest installation of projection mapping technology ever in a Disney Park, along with surprising special effects, this show will take you into the worlds of your favorite Disney and Disney•Pixar films during the all new “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular. The firework show extends to Main Street U.S.A., “it’s a small world,” the Rivers of America, and the Matterhorn as hundreds of projections transform familiar park icons into stunning story scenes.
I’ve seen dozens of fireworks shows over the years and none are as colorful and spectacular as this one. Much like “Paint the Night” Parade, you will want to make sure you are in the right place at the right time to see this new experience.
So, where should you stand to watch the fireworks? My first choice would be to stand near the end of Main Street U.S.A., but still between the buildings. Here you will see all kinds of fun images and cool effects projected on each of the buildings. These new effects brings the storyline of the fireworks to life. You may even see and feel it snow. Finding a spot on Main Street U.S.A as soon as the first Disney’s “Paint the Night” parade ends is important if you would like to get a great spot to stand. This area fills in quickly! When we saw “Disneyland Forever,” we stayed in the shops along Main Street during the first “Paint the Night” parade. As soon as the parade ends, we went straight out into the street and had a great spot!
If you don’t make it to Main Street U.S.A, don’t worry. There are other great places to experience the fireworks. With Disneyland’s new way of doing fireworks, you can watch and experience different story-lines near the Rivers of America, “it’s a small world,” and directly in front of the castle with special images projected onto the Matterhorn. Wherever you stand, you are in for a great show!
Often I hear guests say that the best time to ride the attractions is during the fireworks and that you should skip them all together. However, with this new firework experience, you don’t want to miss it for anything! The attractions aren’t going anywhere, but these fireworks are only available to experience once per day. Take my word for it and you will be one happy guest. Below you will see some of the pictures I took while watching this “Disneyland Forever” Firework Spectacular. Enjoy!
– Cody Woodbrey
Disneyland’s 60th Anniversary Ins & Outs: An All New “Paint the Night” Parade
“Paint the Night” Parade is by far my favorite nighttime parade I’ve ever seen at any Disney park. It has new technology and immersive special effects that lift the “Paint the Night” Parade beyond anything seen in the past at Disneyland Park. With vibrant colors and more than 1.5 million brilliant LED lights that flash and glow, it brings Disney stories to life during this after-dark parade. Featuring unforgettable music and spectacular floats, “Paint the Night” includes special appearances by Mickey Mouse and friends, as well as beloved characters from tales such as “Monsters, Inc.,” “Cars,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Toy Story,” and “Frozen.”
With Disneyland celebrating their Diamond anniversary and with “Paint the Night” being a new parade, finding a spot to watch can be a challenge. We found that guests would start lining the streets over three hours before the parade started. It is important to have a plan before you attempt to watch this amazing parade.
As of now, Disneyland has two parades running each night. As is typical with most Disney parades, especially night parades, the second parade is almost always going to have less crowds. Most families with young kids are tired and want to get out of the park so they go to the first parade. If you are able to stay for the later parade, you will save a lot of time waiting, and it will not be as crowded.
That being said, even if you choose to wait for the second parade, you are still going to have to find a spot approximately 45-60 minutes beforehand. If you are set on going to the first parade, you will definitely need to start looking for a spot at least three hours early.
So where is the best place to watch the parade? My first choice would be between the Matterhorn and the outer rim of the main hub in front of the castle. My second choice would be near the “it’s a small world” attraction. I would avoid the standing anywhere between the main hub near the train station along main street to the main hub in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. There isn’t a lot of space in these areas and everyone crowds in forcing you to get to know your neighbor a little bit more than you would like.
Again, this is my new favorite nighttime parade and it is worth the time you will spend waiting to watch it. I hope you enjoy this new parade as much as I have. It really is something spectacular to experience. Below you will see some of the pictures I took while watching this amazing parade. Enjoy!
– Cody Woodbrey
Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Opens for Brunch
Brunch Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is now a daily offering.
The Chef Mickey’s restaurant has been one of the more popular Walt Disney World Resort restaurant and now guests can experience even more. This spot has been one of the top places for guest to meet some of their favorite Disney Character, such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Chip and Dale and a few others.
The brunch menu expands some of the breakfast favorites along with soup, salads and hot dishes, including barbecued ribs, seafood étouffée and baked salmon. Plus, the famous Mickey waffles are also on the brunch menu. The ice cream bar and bakery items will also be a part of this expansive buffet.
Hours for brunch are 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Brunch at Chef Mickey’s is included on the Disney Dining Plan as one table-service entitlement.
– Cody Woodbrey
Photo and content provided by Disney
“Eat to the Beat” Concert Series Lineup Announced for 2015 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Four new “Eat to the Beat” concert acts debut and several fan favorites return to America Gardens Theater during the 20th Annual Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 25-Nov. 16, 2015.
Scheduled to perform are:
- David Cook – Sept. 25-27, 2015
- Wilson Phillips – Sept. 28-29, 2015
- Christopher Cross – Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 2015
- Starship – Oct. 2-4, 2015
- Smash Mouth – Oct. 5-7, 2015
- The Pointer Sisters – Oct.8-9, 2015
- 38 Special – Oct. 10-11, 2015
- Rick Springfield – Oct. 12-13, 2015
- Sugar Ray – Oct.14-16, 2015
- The S.O.S. Band – Oct. 17-18, 2015
- Air Supply – Oct.19-21, 2015
- Fuel – Oct. 22-23, 2015
- Tiffany (NEW!) – Oct. 24-25, 2015
- Dennis DeYoung – Oct. 26-28, 2015
- Jo Dee Messina – Oct. 29-30, 2015
- Everclear (NEW!) – Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2015
- Boyz II Men – Nov. 2-4, 2015
- Sister Hazel – Nov. 5-6, 2015
- Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – Nov. 7-9, 2015
- Hanson – Nov. 10-12, 2015
- Maxi Priest (NEW!) – Nov. 13-14, 2015
- Chaka Khan (NEW!) – Nov. 15-16, 2015
Please note: Daily show times take place at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. Entertainment and appearances are subject to change without notice.
– Cody Woodbrey
Photo & content provided by Disney Destinations
Harambe Market Now Open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Harambe Market, a bustling marketplace alive with the aromas and flavors of African street foods, adds an exciting new dimension to the expanded Harambe Village experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park in Walt Disney World® Resort.
Built around a Colonial-era train depot design complete with a 1960s water tower, Harambe Market invites you to sample true flavors of Africa before or after you embark on Kilimanjaro Safaris®. The following four themed shops offer fresh meals, snacks and beverages like those found in an African street market:
- Kitamu Grill featuring skewered chicken and kebab flatbread sandwich.
- Famous Sausages showcasing a corndog made with a South African boerewors sausage dipped in curry-infused corn batter.
- Chef Mwanga’s spice-rubbed Karubi Rib paired with green papaya-carrot slaw.
- Wanjohi Refreshments quenches thirsts with craft draft beers, South African wines by the glass, sangria, frozen drinks, non-alcoholic tangerine lemonade and fountain beverages.
Harmabe Market offers shaded tables for dining, and area shops sell wares from Africa. And from the marketplace, you can enjoy direct access to Kilimanjaro Safaris, the Wildlife Express train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch and a path to Asia attractions, including Expedition Everest®.
– Cody Woodbrey
The BOATHOUSE Now Open at Downtown Disney
Now open at Downtown Disney, The BOATHOUSE: Great Food, Waterfront Dining, Dream Boats is the first of several new restaurants coming to The Landing, a new neighborhood that will be part of Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort.
The BOATHOUSE is an upscale waterfront dining experience where you can feast on fresh seafood, a raw bar, steaks and chops while enjoying a display of rare dream boats from the 1930s – 1950s.
And, if you want more, you can purchase tickets for guided tours on The BOATHOUSE Amphicars, which launch from land and enter water with a splash, or The Venezia, a breathtaking 40-foot wooden Italian Water Taxi.
Plus, Harbor Master festivities take place throughout the day and evening. You can experience flag ceremonies and lively musical performances of beloved bugle songs. Inside, they can enjoy live entertainment featuring a variety of musical styles.
– Cody Woodbrey
New Retail and Dining Experiences Announced for Disney Springs
A total of 13 new tenants were recently announced, including eight retail shops. With new retailers already aboard and new restaurants either open or coming soon, Downtown Disney is transforming into an exciting new waterfront district for world-class shopping, unique dining, and high-quality entertainment.
Newly announced tenants include:
Retail Locations
- Zara: Owned by the Inditex Group, one of the world’s largest fashion retail groups. Zara is known for its men’s, women’s and children’s clothing and accessories, and how it expertly interprets current fashion and style trends of the season, delivering original designs to the consumer in a matter of weeks.
- Tommy Bahama: Iconic island lifestyle brand Tommy Bahama embodies relaxed sophistication. The hallmarks of this casual collection include island-inspired sportswear, denim, and swimwear for men and women in luxuriously soft silks and cottons, richly woven textures and eclectic prints.
- Lilly Pulitzer: The authentic American resort wear brand, Lilly Pulitzer, is landing in the heart of Disney and will be offering their clothing and accessories, optimistic outlook, and happy prints to those who’ve loved the brand for years and new Lilly Girls out there.
- UNIQLO: Leading global retailer UNIQLO designs, manufactures, and sells casual apparel that comes from the company’s Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. The simplest design hides the most thoughtful details in clothing that is constantly being innovated to bring more warmth and lightness, better design and comfort to people’s lives.
- PANDORA: Building on its existing relationship with Disney Parks, the popular jewelry brand offers classic yet modern charm bracelets, along with necklaces, rings and earrings, as well as a line of exclusive Disney-themed jewelry.
- UGG: The UGG® brand is recognized as a premium lifestyle brand offering men’s, women’s and kid’s footwear as well as loungewear, outerwear, home products, cold weather accessories and handbags.
- L’Occitane en Provence: L’Occitane en Provence is an international skincare and beauty line celebrating the culture and beauty of Provence, France.
- Edward Beiner: A leading eyewear designer, purveyor and retailer, Edward Beiner offers today’s aspiring lifestyle-oriented customer the world’s most original, authentic and innovative designer, fashion and high performance eyewear.
Dining Locations
- Edison: Inspired by The Edison venue in Los Angeles, this lavish “Industrial Gothic” -style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination is themed to a 1920s-period power plant, recalling an exuberant era of invention and imagination. It will feature exceptionally good classic American food, craft cocktails and live entertainment including cabaret and music.
- Sprinkles: The world’s first cupcake bakery, as named by Food Network and others, serves up handcrafted cupcakes, slow churned ice cream and homemade cookies. Their innovative Cupcake ATM satisfies sweet-toothed epicureans 24/7.
- Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza: Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza is a modern day “pizza joint” known for its custom-built artisanal pizzas, freshly made salads, blood orange lemonade and s’more pies. The fast-casual restaurant features an interactive assembly-line format that allows guests to customize their pizza, choosing from over 40 fresh, artisanal toppings – all for one price. The generously sized, 11-inch pizzas are “fast-fired” in a blazing hot open-flame oven and ready to enjoy in just 180 seconds.
- Vivoli Gelateria: Vivoli Gelateria serves expertly crafted gelato made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, panini sandwiches and espresso drinks.
- Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s: Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s specializes in premium loose-leaf teas (hot, iced, blended) featuring customs blends, accessories and packaged teas from all over the globe; created to go or for a tea experience in the café.
Stay tuned for updates as Downtown Disney continues to expand into Disney Springs.
– Cody Woodbrey
Photo & content provided by Disney Destinations
25 Fun Facts About the Disney Dream
- Maiden Voyage: January 26, 2011 – 4 Night Bahamanian Cruise
- Passenger Capacity: 4,000
- Gross Tonnage: 130,000 Tons
- Length: 1,115 ft, Beam: 136 ft, Draft: 26 ft
- Speed: Cruising – 22 Knots, Max – 23.5 Knots
- Crew: 1,458 Cast Members on board at all times
- Godmother of the ship is Jennifer Hudson
- Sorcerer Mickey Mouse is on the stern of the ship and is about 14 feet long and weights about 2,500 pounds. Constructed of stainless steel and Fiberblass.
- The Sorcerer Mickey Mouse was sculpted in California, manufactured in Sarasota, FL, painted in Orlando and then transported by ship to Germany for final installation on the Disney Dream. The “ornament” traveled appropriately 15,000 miles.
- Admiral Donald is the featured statue in the main atrium
- There are 1,250 Staterooms – Inside: 150, Oceanview: 199 and Verandah 901
- The ship horn whistles 7 different musical tunes; “When you Wish Upon a Star”, “makes no difference who you are”, “Yo Ho”, “It’s a Small World”, “Be Our Guest”, “Hi Diddle Dee Dee” and “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.”
- Ship Builder was Meyer Werft (Papenburg, Germany)
- Disney’s ships are the only ships to have four captains – the ship’s captain, Captain Mickey, Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow.
- The ship can make over 1,200 tons of fresh water from seawater each day
- Disney is the first cruise line to introduce the rotational dining concept, where guests rotate between three different restaurants each night.
- The Dream’s Art Deco-Style chandelier has thousands of hand-crafted Swarovski crystal beads (88,680 beads) and colorful glass-work. Crafted in Brixen, Italy, the chandelier is 22 feet diameter at the ceiling plate and comes down 13 feet from the ceiling and is plated with 24kt gold
- On arrival day, cast members will transport approximately 14,000 suitcases
- There are approximately 80,000 lights on board – Double the industry average. The large number is the result of Disney’s flare for theatrical experiences – accomplished primarily with LEDs and other environmentally friendly lighting.
- There are two huge mosaic walls based on the Disney-Pixar animated film “Finding Nemo” located in Cabans casual-dining restaurant. Hand-crafted uniquely for the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream by Italian artists, each wall is more than 25 feet wide and more than 8 feet high and contains approximately 194,500 tiles in 200 colors of hand-crafted Venetian enamel.
- The Dream was the first ship to have a water rollercoaster at sea, known as the Aquaduck!
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Subtle nautical motif adorns Disney Cruise Line ships, including traditional maritime symbols and lettering that only the conscientious sailor can spot. For example, on the carpet in the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream stateroom corridors, a ship’s wheel encompasses a map of the world and nautical flags spell out the name of the ship.
- Palo, the adult-exclusive dining, located on deck 12, can seat up to 144 guests (128 inside – 16 outside)
- All pools are filled with freshwater and are heated when the temperature drops below 75 Degrees
- The Walt Disney Theatre can seat 1,340 guests
– Cody Woodbrey
25 Fun Facts About the Disney Wonder
- Maiden Voyage: August 15, 1999 – 4 Night Bahamian Cruise
- Passenger Capacity: 2,400
- Gross Tonnage: 83,000 Tons
- Length: 964 ft, Beam: 106 ft, Draft: 25.3 ft
- Speed: Cruising – 21.5 Knots, Max – 24 Knots
- Crew: 950 Cast Members on board at all times
- Ship Cost: $350 Million
- Lobby Statue is Ariel
- Donald Duck is painting the back of the ship – Each ship has a different character
- Ship Builder was Fincantieri (Marghera, Italy)
- Godmother of the ship is Tinker Bell
- On a 7-Night cruise over 15,000 pool towels will be used
- There are 877 Staterooms – Inside: 256, Oceanview: 259 and Verandah 362
- The ship horn whistles, “When You Wish Upon a Star”
- There are 5,390 pillows on board
- On an average 7-Night cruise, 10,000 lbs of Chicken are consumed
- The ship can make 500,000 gallons of fresh water from seawater each day
- Disney Wonder is almost as long as the Eiffel Tower is high
- One anchor alone weighs more than 3 elephants
- On arrival day, cast members will transport approximately 10,000 suitcases
- There is 1,367 miles of cable on the ship
- The ship is painted in Mickey Mouse-inspired colors – black hull, superstructure, yellow trim and two giant red funnels, each with the Disney Line Mickey Mouse Logo.
- Wood is used throughout the whole ship, which is rare for newer ships
- On average there are 86 different nationalities of cast members
- All pools are filled with freshwater and are heated when the temperature drops below 75 Degrees
– Cody Woodbrey
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Attraction Height Ranges
If you are planning on taking to Walt Disney World in the future, please contact me for more information and deals.
– Cody Woodbrey
Woodbrey Family Travel Blog 