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Pixar Pier Takes Shape Summer 2018!
In addition to the newly reimagined Incredicoaster and all-new Lamplight Lounge, you will discover new experiences – both big and small – throughout the newly reimagined Pixar Pier.
In 2019, Jessie the yodeling cowgirl will invite you for a rootin’ tootin’ spin on Jessie’s Critter Carousel. Inspired by Jessie’s wilderness friends in the “Woody’s Roundup” television show from “Toy Story 2,” this newly reimagined attraction is a classic boardwalk carousel with a whimsical spin. Saddle up on one of 56 adorable friends, choosing from a turtle, snake, buzzard, armadillo, bunny, deer, raccoon, ram, skunk and two cozy logs inhabited by a family of owls.
And when Pixar Pier opens June 23, 2018 at Disney California Adventure® Park, you will find transformation around every corner.
Just past Lamplight Lounge, you will find Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats. Inspired by the lovable and not-at-all-abominable monster from “Monsters, Inc.,” this will be your go-to for frozen treats.
In the “Toy Story” neighborhood of Pixar Pier, big appetites and small fries alike will love the Poultry Palace. This giant fun meal inspired by Pixar’s short, “Toy Story Toon: Small Fry,” even comes with a Fun Meal Zurg!
You can also stop by Señor Buzz Churros, where Buzz has switched into Spanish mode to offer this quintessential Disneyland Resort treat.
Further down Pixar Pier, Angry Dogs will be serving up some hot items – which is the perfect place for Anger from “Inside Out.” The more he burns with rage, the hotter the dogs get!
Come discover these and many more newly themed experiences throughout Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park!
Woodbrey Family Travel
Pixar Pier to Bring New Incredicoaster and More to Disney California Adventure Park Summer 2018
Summer 2018 will bring a transformed land for guests to experience at Disney California Adventure® Park when Pixar Pier opens along the southern shore of Paradise Bay, with newly themed attractions, entertainment, foods and merchandise throughout. This new, permanent land in the area that is now Paradise Pier will introduce four new neighborhoods representing beloved Disney·Pixar stories.
The first of the four themed neighborhoods guests will find is inspired by “The Incredibles.” Here, the new Incredicoaster, permanently transformed from the attraction that is now California Screamin’, will open with Pixar Pier in summer 2018. This new experience will feature a mid-century-modern-style loading area, new character moments and a new look for the ride vehicles. To prepare for this transformation, California Screamin’ will close Jan. 8, 2018.
The popular Toy Story Mania! will anchor the “Toy Story”-inspired neighborhood. A neighborhood inspired by “Inside Out” will be found on the western side of the boardwalk and will welcome a new family-friendly attraction, scheduled to open at a later date.
The fourth neighborhood will be a celebration of many favorite Pixar stories. In this neighborhood, Mickey’s Fun Wheel will have a new look, with each of the 24 gondolas featuring different Pixar characters and the iconic face of Mickey Mouse remaining on the Paradise Bay side of the wheel. At the Games of the Boardwalk, which already includes the Bullseye Stallion Stampede game, all of the midway games will be inspired by Pixar characters. Mickey’s Fun Wheel, Games of the Boardwalk and Sideshow Shirts will close Jan. 8, 2018 to begin this transformation.
Ariel’s Grotto restaurant and the Cove Bar will be transformed into a new lounge and grill offering sparkling views of Paradise Bay and the new Pixar Pier. Both locations will close Jan. 8, 2018, with Cove Bar reopening briefly in April before closing again for its permanent transformation. Guests wishing to reserve “World of Color” dining packages after Jan. 7, 2018, may consider Carthay Circle Restaurant or Wine Country Trattoria.
The remaining areas of the land that is now Paradise Pier, including Paradise Gardens, Silly Symphony Swings, Jumpin’ Jellyfish, Goofy’s Sky School, Golden Zephyr and The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, will become a new land called Paradise Park.
Pixar Pier will open during the limited-time Pixar Fest celebration, which begins April 13, 2018. The celebration will include the new “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” fireworks spectacular as well as the return of Pixar Play Parade and “Paint the Night” parade, and much more throughout the entire Disneyland® Resort.
Woodbrey Family Travel
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort Expands to Disney California Adventure Park When it Returns Sept. 15-Oct. 31, 2017
Halloween Time at the Disneyland® Resort is growing with more frightful fun! This year, you can get into the spooky spirit at Disney California Adventure® Park, with all-new ghoulish delights at Cars Land and on Buena Vista Street.
On Buena Vista Street, a spell will be cast with new Halloween decor all along this stylish thoroughfare inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Oogie Boogie has risen from the shadows to take over Disney California Adventure park, and his oversized silhouette beckons guests through the main entrance as a swarm of bats encircle Carthay Circle Theatre.
At Disneyland® Park, the famous Pumpkin Festival will greet Guests as they make their way down Main Street, U.S.A., on their way to the eerily magical Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy attractions.
Also at Disneyland® Park, the popular Mickey’s Halloween Party returns! Tickets to the private Mickey’s Halloween Party, featuring special entertainment and trick-or-treating at locations throughout Disneyland Park, go on sale July 17 for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members and Disney Visa Card holders; and July 24 for the general public. Mickey’s Halloween Party takes place on Sept. 20, 22, 25, 27, 29, Oct. 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27 and 31, 2017.
New this year for Mickey’s Halloween Party Guests, Disney California Adventure Park will be featured for the first time as part of the pre-party mix-in. Early arrivals will be able to visit both theme parks for three hours prior to the party launch in Disneyland Park. Also new this year, admission to Mickey’s Halloween Party will include complimentary Disney PhotoPass.
Mickey’s Halloween Party features special entertainment, including Disney characters – Disney villains as well as Mickey Mouse and friends — and the Cadaver Dans ghostly quartet performing on the Rivers of America. An extra special treat is the “Halloween Screams” fireworks spectacular, a Mickey’s Halloween Party tradition presented exclusively for party guests. Also exclusive to Mickey’s Halloween Party is the “Frightfully Fun Parade,” led by The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow (from the Disney animated classic “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad”).
Woodbrey Family Travel
Terms and Conditions
Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets are subject to availability and are valid only for specific event dates and hours. Space is limited. Advanced purchase savings available only for select party nights and only until one day prior to applicable event date. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be resold. May not be combined with other discounts. Costumes subject to Disney guidelines at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/events-tours/mickeys-halloween-party/ and should not be obstructive or offensive. Ages 2 and under: no ticket required. Entertainment may be cancelled due to inclement weather or otherwise. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.
Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the PhotoPass terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos captured during the Mickey’s Halloween Party must be linked to your Disney account and may be downloaded pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.
Oogie Boogie and Haunted Mansion Holiday are inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Meet Cruz Ramirez from Disney·Pixar’s ‘Cars 3’ at Disney Parks
This summer, when guests head on down the highway to Disney California Adventure® Park at Disneyland® Resort, they’ll be able to meet one of the newest stars from Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Cruz Ramirez. Cruz has joined Lightning McQueen and Mater in Cars Land. She’ll also be taking a summer road trip down to the Sunshine State, stopping in on Pixar Place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® at Walt Disney World® Resort.
In Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Cruz Ramirez is a top-notch technician at the Rusteze Racing Center where she’s assigned to train the team’s talented rookies. Cruz always had racing dreams of her own, but it isn’t until she meets Lightning McQueen that she realizes her passion to compete is still there. Now she’ll finally get the chance to see if she’s got what it takes to win.
Woodbrey Family Travel
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT Is To Open Summer 2017 at Disney California Adventure Park
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT transformation is underway at Disney California Adventure Park and is expected to open in the summer of 2017.
The above picture gives us a glimpse as to what the exterior of the attraction will look like. Every detail in the model will be replicated in the full size attraction, as designers, builders and artists work to bring The Collector’s realm to life.
The Collector’s Fortress is designed to be intimidating and imposing, but also shimmering and regal. It will be the location where the Collector secures and shows off his most prized collections. Which will include the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT attraction will still feature the breathtaking free-fall sensation we have all grown to love over the years but with all-new visual and audio effects, including music inspired by the popular “Guardians of the Galaxy” film soundtrack. Much like with the Hollywood Tower Hotel guests will experience a variety of randomized ride experiences.
Video of the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT model
Cody Woodbrey
The Tower of Terror’s Final Drop!
The fan favorite Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is going to have it’s final drop on January 2, 2017. With the attraction leaving, Disney has decided to have a special celebration guests will be wanting to drop by for. The celebration will start on September 9th and will continue until October 31, 2016.
Each night, beginning after twilight, Disney California Adventure Park guests will be treated to “Late Check-Out” as they experience The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror as they never have before … in complete darkness!
In addition to “Late Check-Out,” they will find commemorative merchandise as well as special food and beverage items throughout the celebration. They’ll also get the chance to picture themselves “checking out” with a special photo location in front of the Hollywood Tower Hotel marquee, complete with vintage luggage and other nods to the landmark’s story and the glitz and glamor of a bustling young movie town.
And, each day during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, the Hollywood Tower Hotel will host special performances by Buena Vista Street’s own Silver Lake Sisters.
Be sure to drop by for one last scream!
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
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
Your Guide to the Happiest Place on Earth During the Merriest Time of Year
Most people who have been on a trip to Disneyland often think of it fondly as a place where they could let loose and just be happy. Few people doubt Disneyland’s claim to being the “happiest place on earth.” What not everyone knows is that during the Christmas season, Disneyland gets a head-to-toe makeover and it becomes not only the happiest, but the merriest place on earth.
Christmas at Disneyland is one of my favorite seasons. The added decorations in the park alone leave you immersed in a festive holiday wonderland. However, there are some additions to the park during the Holiday season that are wonderful bonuses to an already magical place.
As with anytime of year though, if you don’t know what you are getting yourself into at Disneyland, you may miss out on some of the magic and festivities that are just waiting for you to discover. Below you will find some of the “extras” that can add a little bit more sparkle to your Disneyland vacation during the Christmas season. Read closely. You won’t want to miss a thing!
Jingle Jangle Jamboree
Hidden back behind Big Thunder Mountain resides one of the merriest places in the whole park – the Jingle Jangle Jamboree. This is one of my family’s favorite places to visit during the holidays. Here you’ll find your favorite Disney characters all dressed up in their Christmas outfits, special entertainment, reindeer games & activities, merchandise, treats, and of course meet the big guy himself, Santa Claus. While enjoying the live entertainment families can make their own holiday decorations at the craft station or try some of the reindeer games. My favorite reindeer game is the ‘Dashing Thru the Snow on a Slippery Slope’, its much like Plinko but instead of getting points at the bottom you race against others and whomever gets their puck to the bottom first wins.
Haunted Mansion Holiday
Each year, for both the Halloween and Christmas Seasons the Haunted Mansion is transformed to the theme of Tim Burton’s ‘Nightmare Before Christmas.’ This transformation makes the Haunted Mansion one of the most popular attractions in the park during the holidays. It is definitely on the top of my list of must-sees each year. Notice the ginger bread house in the main ballroom of the attraction. The bakers at the Disneyland Resort come together each year to create an original gingerbread house. 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.
Jingle Cruise
The well-known attraction, the Jungle Cruise, gets a transformation this season with holiday gifts and décor. The skippers are as witty and funny as ever but with a holiday twist this time. Having the holidays intertwined with this attraction brings even more life and excitement to one of our favorite classics. You have to go on it several times to see all the added extras. I’ve ridden it several times now and still don’t think I’ve seen all the little touches. It’s a holiday don’t miss!
it’s a small world – The Happiest Cruise that ever sailed just got Merrier!
One of the biggest icons of the Disneyland Park is transformed into one of the happiest attractions ever created. They have done this by the explosion of decorations in and around every inch of this attraction. Additionally, they have created a medley of songs using Christmas carols from around the world. We usually only ride this attraction once each visit but with things made up for the holidays, we find ourselves riding in several times. There is just so much to see and enjoy. One of the things we like to do while riding the attraction is to find all the Disney characters mixed within the 300 plus dolls. Can you find them all? The characters you will find are Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Cinderella, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Aladdin, Jasmine, The Three Caballeros, Ariel, Flounder, Lilo, Stitch, Woody, Jessies and Bullseye.
Believe…in Holiday Magic Fireworks
Ending the day watching one of the merriest fireworks show on the planet is particularly fun and special. With the incredible Sleeping Beauty’s Castle covered in 80,000 twinkling lights, snow, and icicles in the foreground, there really is no better setting for a firework show. Watching the fireworks choreographed to traditional Christmas music really brings the holidays to life. To top it off it snows! That’s right it snows along Main Street all the way to the castle. Yeah, Disney knows how to celebrate the holidays!
Tips for seeing the Fireworks
- For the fireworks, I would stand between the Refreshment Corner on Main Street and the main hub in front of the castle. I would not stand between the hub and the castle because you’re so close you will not be able to see the fireworks as well.
- On top of the Train Station behind the preferred seating, is another great place to view the fireworks. Those siting in the seats are required to stay seated. You will get an amazing panoramic view of the fireworks. Make sure you arrive early for a spot.
A Christmas Fantasy Parade
Disneyland’s Christmas parade is so much fun to watch and really gets the whole family into the spirit of Christmas. I love how Disney has been able to create a parade with so much tradition and memories of the holidays we have all come to love. You get so much more than just seeing your favorite Disney characters but are surrounded by prancing Reindeer, dancing ginger bread man, houses made out of gingerbread, marching toy soldiers, dancing snowman, Christmas trees and to end it all, Santa Claus. This magical parade runs twice a day during the holiday season. If time allows, it is kind of fun to watch it during the day and at night to get a different perspective.
Tips for viewing the parade:
- There are always less people at the second parade. If the weather is looking bad, choose the first parade in case the second one is canceled.
- I recommend watching the parade around the “it’s a small world” attraction or near the Matterhorn area
- Avoid Main Street and the main area in front of the Castle! The crowds are the biggest around these areas.
- Start finding a place to view the parade about 45 minutes before it starts. While you save a spot, this is a good time to eat. Have part of the family stay and hold the viewing spot, while the others go and get food or snacks for everyone.
Disney Viva Navidad Celebration!
Join your favorite three amigos, Donald Duck, Panchito from Mexico and Jose from Brazil in their high-spirited celebration street party. This party focuses on Latin American traditional songs, dancing, and the larger than life 12-foot-tall mojiganga puppets of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Of Course, no Disney celebration is complete without Mickey and Minnie Mouse in attendance. You will definitely find yourself dancing and singing along with everyone. This fun celebration takes place daily several times throughout the holiday season. Between these celebrations you can actually meet the three amigos along with Mickey, Minnie and Goofy all dressed in their Latin Christmas outfits. Check the daily times guide for specifics.
Cars Land
Cars Land is probably the most decorated area in any of the parks between both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. It doesn’t matter where you turn there are creative and fun decorations everywhere. My favorite thing to do in Cars Land during the Holidays is find all the creative trees put up around the area. I think my favorite tree is Sally’s Construction Cone Tree with Lizzie’s Route 66 Signs tree in a close second. All the trees are pretty amazing so make sure you take the time to look through the pictures below and decide which one is your favorite. If you will be in the parks this holiday season, I would also recommend making sure to go back and explore Cars Land at night because it is a totally different experience with all the neon lights turned on. For those not visiting the parks this season, take a look at the pictures below and enjoy! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
World of Color – Winter Dreams
One of my favorite nighttime shows World of Color is transformed into an amazing wintry wonderland celebration know as Winter Dreams and is hosted by everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf! With the mists of water, lazars, HD projections, fountains and a mixture of your favorite Christmas songs this is one of the top things for my family to see during the holiday season.
– Cody Woodbrey
Disney’s Cars Land During the Holidays
Cars Land is probably the most decorated area in any of the parks between both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. It doesn’t matter where you turn there are creative and fun decorations everywhere. My favorite thing to do in Cars Land during the Holidays is find all the creative trees put up around the area. I think my favorite tree is Sally’s Construction Cone Tree with Lizzie’s Route 66 Signs tree in a close second. All the trees are pretty amazing so make sure you take the time to look through the pictures below and decide which one is your favorite. If you will be in the parks this holiday season, I would also recommend making sure to go back and explore Cars Land at night because it is a totally different experience with all the neon lights turned on. For those not visiting the parks this season, take a look at the pictures below and enjoy! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
– Cody Woodbrey
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit is coming to Disney California Adventure
Starting on September 14, 2014, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit will be meeting guests at Disney California Adventure Park. This will be his first appearance at the Disneyland Resort. His meet and greet area will be along Buena Vista Street. Oswald was one of Walt Disney’s first animated characters. “Trolley Troubles” was the first film he appeared in on September 5, 1927.
Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more great information on all things Disney Characters & Disney Travel.
– Cody Woodbrey
Meeting Disney Characters 101
There are several ways in which to get the most out of your “meet and greet” with your favorite Disney Characters. As a performer at Walt Disney World, I can tell you that I’ve seen and experienced it all – the good, the bad, and everything in between. I have therefore compiled some tips and information for you in order to help make this experience the best for your family. This blog post is created to help you better your experience and maximize your “meet and greet” time with the characters.
Lesson 1: Be Prepared
There are a couple of things you can do to be prepared before you ever meet the character.
1. Have your autograph books and cameras ready. This will give you more time to play and interact with the characters versus trying to get your book out or camera ready. This also helps the line go quicker.
2. Take off jackets, bags and/or ponchos. Doing this makes for better-looking pictures. Waiting until you get up to the character takes away from your time to interact with them.
3. Put down any food or drinks. The characters will not take pictures with them in the picture.
Lesson 2: The Approach
When you approach the Disney character, don’t shove your book into their hands.
1. They want to say hi first with a hug or a high five. They want to know you are there for more than just a signature.
2. Make sure the character sees you approaching. They don’t have the best eyesight, and at times they don’t even realize there is a young child by their legs.
3. Please do not jump up on them.
4. Be careful when touching their heads – it’s actually preferred that you don’t touch their heads at all.
5. Everyone must be wearing shoes unless they are being held.
6. They cannot hold your baby.
7. Don’t be rough with the characters. They can be hurt!
Lesson 3: Helping Unsure Kids
I’ve seen hundreds of families that wait in long lines to see the characters only to get up to them and find that their child no longer wants to see them or is crying. These tips will help you get those pictures without the big hassle or need for convincing.
1. Let them watch the character interact with the other families and talk to them about all the fun the other families are having.
2. Holding the child or getting down to the child’s level helps the child feel safe and protected.
3. Hold the child’s hand while walking up to the character.
4. Ask someone to take the picture for you so you can stay with your child. I usually ask the family behind me to do it just in case there isn’t someone at the front of the line to do it. Always check the photo before moving on, as not everyone knows how to use a camera correctly.
5. When taking a picture with your child, put them on the outside shoulder away from the character. By doing this you will help keep them from looking at the camera instead of at the character and/or help them stop crying.
6. If the opposite shoulder strategy doesn’t work, take several steps in front of the character, get their attention to look at the camera, and take the picture. This helps because the child is far enough away that they feel a bit safer and you still get a picture with the character.
Lesson 4: Writing Material for Autographs
By having the right kind of writing utensils it will help you get the best signature possible.
1. Even before you hand the character the autograph books, make sure you use the words “Please” and “Thank You”. These words are often forgotten, but greatly appreciated!
1 – 2-inch pens are hard for anyone to write with, and with a paw it is even harder.
2. Light ink pens or coloring utensils make it hard for the characters to see what they are signing. Use dark ink or colors for signing. When the character can see what they are signing you will get a great signature.
3. Larger-than-life pens are also not the easiest to write with for the characters. The thickness of the pen does make it a bit hard to get a good grip for a great signature.
4. Disney characters’ favorite type of writing utensil is a regular-sized SHARPIE. The inks are thick and they are extremely easy to hold.
5. Characters love it when you use different colors – For example: Tigger loves using Orange colors, whereas The Green Army Man loves using Green to write.
6. The characters also love writing with the fun different Disney pens. They love tickling your faces with the ones with the fuzz on the ends or twirling the character on the end of the pen. They especially love pens with themselves on them.
7. 2-inch size papers or loose papers without something hard behind them are hard to sign on. If you are going to have the papers loose, then use a small clip board. Doing this will help you get the best quality of signatures possible.
Lesson 5: What Characters Can Write On
Disney characters love to sign their name on things, but there are a few things they cannot sign.
1. They cannot sign currency, checks, receipts, other important documents, or things with inappropriate materials on them.
2. They can sign shirts, hats, toys, blankets, and things like that
3. They can’t sign anything while it is being worn. You can take the item off only if it doesn’t reveal skin or undergarments.
4. They can sign the cast of a broken arm or leg – this is the only exception to the previous rule. (Signing casts at the Walt Disney World parks is allowed but NOT at Disneyland parks)
Lesson 6: Creating a Little Bit of Extra Magic
1. The characters love holding, signing, and playing with things that have them on it. Buzz Lightyear loves pretending to fly with his action figure… Or should I say, “Falling with style.”
2. They love giving hugs and high fives
3. Be creative with your pictures. Don’t just stand there; strike a pose! They take thousands of pictures a day with guests posing the same way and they are eager to do something different. Go with the flow – If they want you to pose a certain way, do it. They do some great poses. You can even ask them, “What pose should we make today?” and they will respond with some great ideas. If you have some ideas, they will also join in, as long as it is appropriate.
4. Use more than just your phone camera – you will get better pictures using a real camera.
5. Take a “Selfie” with the characters.
6. Share with the characters why you love them and are there to see them.
Lesson 7: Leaving
When you leave, make sure you thank the Disney characters and the character attendants for letting you come and see them. It’s not easy standing out in the heat all day, but it’s worth it when they feel appreciated and loved. Give last minute high fives and hugs!
If you are planning a trip to one of Disney’s theme parks or a Disney Cruise, please contact me for more information.
– Cody Woodbrey
Welcome to Travel Advice by Cody
Hello!
My name is Cody Woodbrey and I specialize in planning Disney vacations and as someone who has worked years in the parks, I provide the insider’s touch that few travel consultants can offer.
Since my first trip to Disneyland when I was four years old, my passion for this company and what it offers to families has grown exponentially. I find myself wanting to share that passion, as well as my experience and knowledge with others so they in turn may grow to love what this company has to offer.
When I travel to Disney destinations, I cringe when I see families struggle to enjoy themselves because they are stuck in line, or are just not aware of the amenities and services that Disney provides. As someone who has worked on, and lived near the Walt Disney World property, has experienced Disneyland more times than I can remember, and has cruised multiple times on the Disney Cruise Line, I can help guests and their families plan a vacation that is built around their dreams and is specific to them. In the words of Walt Disney, “If you can dream it, you can do it.”
My goal is to provide guests with the most current information, and best advice to make sure they spend their time exactly how they would like to. My services are ABSOULTELY FREE to those who book with me.
This blog is an extension of those services. With advice on all things Disney travel. I am excited to share my love and passion of all things Disney Travel with you.
Your Disney Travel Expert,
Cody
Woodbrey Family Travel Blog 