Blog Archives
Celebrities and Entertainment Announced for Star Wars Weekends 2015 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Once again, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is hosting this year’s Star Wars Weekends. Over the course of 5 weekends, Friday – Sunday, May 15 – June 14, guests have the opportunity to feel the power of the force with all new entertainment along with the chance to meet some of their favorite celebrities from the Star Wars films.
The universe of Star Wars comes to life for guests through having more than 60 Star Wars characters roaming the theme park for meet-and-greet opportunities, a Star Wars motorcade, and the “Symphony in the Stars” nighttime fireworks spectacular saluting iconic sounds of the films. The event will also feature event-exclusive merchandise at Darth’s Mall, Star Wars-inspired dining offerings where guests meet Star Wars characters, specialty food and beverages, interactive activities, and much more.
Many of the Star Wars Weekends’ favorite celebrities will be returning to this year’s event, such as: Warwick Davis – Wald and Wicket W. Warrick; Ray Park – Darth Maul; Peter Mayhew – Chewbacca; and several others. These celebrities, including the newcomers, will appear each weekend in star conversations, talk shows, autograph sessions, and motorcades.
Bringing his evil powers to Star Wars Weekends for the first time, actor Ian McDiarmid, Senator/Emperor Palpatine in the Star Wars movies, will kick off Weekend I, May 15-17. And, to balance out the appearance of the dark side with a beacon of light, actor Frank Oz, the voice of Yoda in the Star Wars movies, will make his first event appearance in Weekend V, June 12-14, to finish out the event. Below is the full lineup of celebrities with the weekend they will be attending.
Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing some of my own experiences and excitement for attending Star Wars Weekends, so stay tuned for more information!
– Cody Woodbrey
Star Wars at Sea!
There will be 8 Select Disney sailings in 2016 on the Disney Fantasy that will have the Star Wars Day at Sea! These sailings will be a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise departing from Port Canaveral. Ports of call for these sailings are Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay. The Star Wars Day at Sea is scheduled for the day after porting at Grand Cayman.
Talk about an out-of-this-world experience!! Happening one day during each of the eight sailings, guests will have a galactic experience that has never happened before on a Disney Cruise. Guests will get the opportunity to meet their favorite characters from the films, participate in galactic deck parties, watch fireworks, meet some of the actors from the films, and so much more. This is a cruise you don’t want to miss! Below is the outline of the Star Wars Day at Sea as given by Disney Cruise Line.
Star Wars Day at Sea event includes the following:
Force-filled Fun for Everyone
- Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Boba Fett, Stormtroopers and other characters from across the Star Wars galaxy will be onboard for scheduled meet and greets, as well as roaming on deck and elsewhere around the ship. You’re also are encouraged to dress up in your own stellar costumes!
- A shipboard version of the popular Jedi Training Academy experience invites young Jedi hopefuls — known as “Padawans” — to learn lightsaber moves from a Jedi Master. They can then use the Force and face off in a final test against the evil Darth Vader.
- Kids and families enjoy friendly competition during Star Wars trivia games, covering fun facts from the film and television sagas.
- For Younglings, Star Wars-themed arts and crafts, games and activities will be offered throughout the day in Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab youth clubs.
- In the evening, adults entering the night club will feel like they stepped into the Mos Eisley cantina scene. Characters and cantina music set the mood as Star Wars-themed specialty cocktails are served.
Film Screenings and Celebrities
- You can watch the first six Star Wars films and follow Darth Vader, Obi Wan Kenobi, Luke and Leia along their epic journey.
- Also showing will be episodes of the new Disney X D animated series, Star Wars Rebels.
- On each of the special sailings, celebrities and insiders from the Star Wars galaxy will share their experiences, meet fans and sign autographs.
Star Wars Deck Party and Fireworks
- There’s intergalactic fun when the Star Wars deck party blasts off to an exciting evening filled with music, dancing and games.
- Star Wars characters converge on the deck stage for a celebration of the Star Wars saga in a show featuring special effects and Guest participation.
- The deck party culminates in a spectacular display of themed pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects, lasers and Star Wars music.
Star Wars Day at Sea is available on these select sailings :
- January 9
- January 23
- February 6
- February 20
- March 5
- March 19
- April 2
- April 16
Contact me for more information or to book your Disney Cruise and May The Force Be With You!
– Cody Woodbrey
“Frozen” is Coming to the Disney Cruise Line This Summer
For the first time this summer, on select sailing on both the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder sailings Alaska and Europe, Disney will bring the land of “Frozen” to life. For one day of the sailing, the ship will be transformed into the land of “Frozen”. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in a new deck party, a three-song stage show production number, character meet and greets with some of your favorite “Frozen characters, new ashore adventures and much more.
Here are some of the all-new happenings for these select cruises:
- Memorable moments with Anna, Elsa, and for the first time in forever sing-along, with appearances from Kristoff and Olaf
- “Anna’s Chase for the Chocolate” a scavenger hunt with a special surprise for finishing the game… I think the surprise might have something to do with chocolate!
- “Do You Want to Build a Snowman” activity with kids learn now to use their magical powers to make snow and ice like Queen Elsa
- “The Maypole Swirl and Twirl” for guests wanting to learn traditional Scandinavian dances, all while spinning and braiding giant ribbons
- “Frozen” themed dining experience, the evenings dinner menu includes traditional Nordic fare and special dishes inspired by the film
- “Freezing the Night Away with Anna, Elsa and Friends,” an all new family-friendly interactive deck party featuring Princess Anna, Queen Elsa, Kristoff and everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf
With the Disney Magic sailing to Norway, guests will be able to have an even more immersive experiences. “Frozen” will make its debut in an all new production “Disney Dreams… An Enchanted Classic”. In this production, Princess Anna, Queen Elsa and Olaf along with your beloved Disney characters will teach an young girl the power of her dreams.
This is not all for guests sailing to Norway! Guests will also have the opportunity to experience all-new port adventures that bring the story of Arendelle to life. One of the signature adventure ashore in Ålesund, Norway, will immerse guests in the charm of Norway with the help with Anna and Elsa themselves.
The summer “Frozen” fun doesn’t stop there but expands to all Disney Cruise ships; Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Olaf with his warm hugs, will join the sisters from Arendelle in an all-new meet and greet experience. On the first night of the cruise, guests will be given a personal navigator with information where they can get tickets to participate in the meet and greet. You must have a ticket in order to participate, so get your ticket as soon as you can.
Cruises that port at Disney’s private Island, Castaway Cay, will also enjoy a new addition the island, Olaf’s Summertime Freeze bar. Specialty non-alcoholic frozen drinks will be served and is located near Pelican Point Tram stop by the Disney Castaway Cay Family Beach.
I’m not sure about you, but I am pretty excited about all the new “Frozen” happenings this summer. If you were thinking about taking a cruise, this might be the perfect time to go! For even more information or to book a Disney Cruise, please contact me today!
– Cody Woodbrey
Celebrate the Season Castle Show at the Magic Kingdom (Photo Gallery)
Celebrate with Mickey and Minnie as Mickey presents Minnie with a most wonderful gift of Christmas. Goofy, Donald and many others favorite, join together in celebration of the season with their own twist on the Nutcracker. It is quite funny and enjoyable for the whole family. You don’t want to miss it. This holiday shows three times during the party, 7:30 p.m., 10:05 p.m., and 11:20 p.m. Here is the collection of pictures of the show I took this last year, enjoy!
– Cody Woodbrey
‘Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party’ – Full Event Details
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is the happiest party on the planet. This 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.
A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas – Buzz Lightyear, Mike Wazowski and Stitch come together with a holiday musical revue. This takes place five times during the party, 7:45pm, 8:45pm, 9:55pm, 10:50pm and 11:45pm at the Tomorrowland Galactic stage between Space Mountain and Carousel of Progress.
Celebrate the Season Show – Celebrate with Mickey and Minnie as he presents her with a most wonderful gift of Christmas. Goofy, Donald and many others favorite, join together in celebration of the season with their own twist on the Nutcracker. It is quite funny and enjoyable for the whole family. You don’t want to miss it. This holiday shows three times during the party, 7:30 p.m., 10:05 p.m., and 11:20 p.m.
A Frozen Holiday Wish – New this year, each night Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf come together in hopes to spread Christmas magic to the Magic Kingdom. Elsa with her awe-inspiring powers frosts Cinderella’s Royal Castle, creating a beautiful and inspiring icy centerpiece for the Magic Kingdom. The Holiday Wish happens twice each night, 6:15 pm, 8:00 pm at Cinderella Castle Stage.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade – New this year to the parade are the well beloved characters from Disney’s Frozen, Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf. Enjoy seeing your favorite Disney Characters along with gingerbread men, elves, toy soldiers, and of course Christmas’ favorite guy, Santa Clause. Each Christmas party has two parades, the first one starting at 8:15 p.m. and the second one starting at 10:30 p.m. I recommend attending the second parade because more guests watch the first parade, making the second parade less crowded.
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.
Holiday Wishes – Celebrate The Spirit of The Season – These fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. in front of Cinderella’s castle. None other than Jiminy Cricket hosts this fireworks show. Flames, fireworks and a remix of your favorite Disney songs and Christmas theme music all come together to make this a don’t-miss firework shows. These fireworks are different than the regular fireworks done during the week and only those attending the Christmas Party have the opportunity to watch them.
“Celebrate The Magic”/Holiday Wishes – Celebrate The Spirit of The Season 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.
Holiday Treats – With admission into the party comes complimentary holiday cookies and hot cocoa. The treats can be found at seven locations throughout the park, Sunshine Tree Terrace, Tortuga Tavern, Columbia Harbor House, Pinocchio Village Haus, Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café and at the Crystal Palace. One of the great things about these treats, is you can go back as many times as you want. Keep mind each place stops serving at various times, so keep track of the time.
Exclusive Merchandise – Disney sells exclusive merchandise during the parties such as t-shirts, Disney trading pins, new Magic bands and more at the Emporium, Mickey’s Star Traders, Frontier Trading Post, Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe and Big Top Souvenirs. These are the only places that sell the exclusive merchandise. You can buy other Disney Holiday-themed merchandise during the day as well.
Character Encounters
There are approximately 47 characters that do meet and greets, 11 characters at the Dance parties. In total there are 58 characters that you will be able to visit in some way. Below is a list of the meet and greet characters for the party.
Character Dance Parties – These dance parties are a great way to take a load off and dance the night away with some of your favorite Disney 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.
Club Tinsel takes place in Comic Rays counter service restaurant. Lead by your favorite alien Stitch, this party is all about having fun and showing off your Stitch side. Here you will see Stitch, Pluto, Chip & Dale.
Holiday Hootenanny! Takes place in Frontierland in the Diamond Horseshoe. Lead by your favorite classic Disney Characters, this party is all about showing off your countryside. Here you will get to see Clarabelle Cow, Clara Cluck, Horace Horsecollar and the four country bears. These characters only come out for the Christmas party.
Extremely Popular Characters
“Sandy Claws” AKA Jack Skellington – Located in Storybook Circus next to the large tents in the back; Greeting Tip: Jack will start to meet guests 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 6:00 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; The princesses 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 Christmas outfits. Only Winnie the Pooh and Tigger do meet and greets during the day.
Peter Pan & Wendy – Located in Fantasyland to the right of Peter Pan’s attraction, towards the Tangled themed area.
Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu & the Genie – Located in Adventureland in the building across the path from the Swiss Family Treehouse; Aladdin & Abu come out together, and Jasmine and the Genie come out together.
Santa Clause – Located in Main Street, U.S.A. next to City Hall
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 Christmas Party he dresses in his Christmas outfit.
Minnie Mouse – Located in Fantasyland near the entrance of Storybook Circus; Minnie Mouse is dressed in her Christmas outfit for the party.
Goofy – Located in Fantasyland near Goofy’s Barnstormer; Goofy is dressed up like Santa Clause for the party
Donald & Daisy & Scrooge McDuck – Located in Fantasyland near the entrance of Storybook Circus near Dumbo; Daisy & Donald are dressed in their Christmas outfits for the party
Belle – Located in Fantasyland in Marcie’s Cottage – Enchanted Tales with Belle location; Meets guests during the regular day here.
Cinderella w/Prince Charming & Rapunzel w/Flynn Rider – Located in Fantasyland at Princess Fairytale Hall; Meets guests during the regular day here
Snow White w/Snow Prince & Aurora w/Prince Philip – Located in Fantasyland next to the great walls in Fantasyland beyond the Carousel (Near the Mine Train); Meets guests during the regular day in Town Square.
Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen – Located in Liberty Square behind the Christmas Shop; Meets guests during the regular day here.
Marry Poppins, Bert & Mr. Penguin – Located in Fantasyland near the Carousel
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
The Country Bears – Located in Adventureland; They don’t have a set location but they’re roaming throughout the area all night.
Phineas & Ferb – Located in Tomorrowland near the exit of Buzz Lightyear’s Astroblasters
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 Happiest events at the Magic Kingdom. 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
Jack Skellington Joins Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party as “Sandy Claws”
Jack Skellington, will be joining the holiday season at the Walt Disney World Resort by dropping in on Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom Park. Jack will be meeting guests back in the Storybook Circus during the party, and he’ll be dressed up as “Sandy Claws”. This is the first year Jack has been seen at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and unlike the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties, Sally will not be joining Jack for the parties.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates for 2014
This year’s parties start at 7 p.m.-midnight on November 8, 11, 14, 15, 17, 21 and 22, and December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20.
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World this holiday season be sure to contact me for more information and deals.
– Cody Woodbrey
Villains Sinister Soirée – Review
When Disney announced the Villains’ Sinister Soiree dessert party, I had mixed feelings about it. I was excited for this unique experience but was a little worried it wouldn’t be worth the additional price of $99 per person on top of the admission to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. I absolutely love Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party so giving up part of the party for another event was huge for me. However, after experiencing this unique event and all the extras Disney added in, I would definitely say it is worth the extra charge.
The night’s event started with getting preferred viewing for the first parade of Mickey’s Boo-To-You Parade and Hallowishes. Here we received our VIP lanyards, seating card for the dessert party, and some much needed water. One of the things I was a little worried about with the parade was that we were all going to be squished together with just an okay view of the parade. I was completely wrong. We had a great view of the parade located on the front side of the castle hub with plenty of room for everyone to stretch out and have their own spot to take pictures and see the parade. This location was also the preferred viewing area for the fireworks. For the fireworks, this was just an okay location. Most of the fireworks were hidden behind Cinderella’s Castle because we were too close. I would recommend maybe not using this portion of your VIP experience and instead standing in the middle of the street right between Casey’s Corner and the hub for optimal fireworks viewing. The benefits of staying in the preferred viewing are is that you have plenty of room between everyone with no one pushing you or touching you with their sweaty bodies to see the fireworks. I guess its kind of toss up between getting a better view and not being packed with everyone.
The dessert party portion of the event was held at two different times. The first took place at 10:15 pm and the other at 11:45 pm. I recommend doing the later one because the party officially ends at 12:00 and the dessert party is an hour long. Therefore with the later one you get about 45 more minutes to enjoy the Halloween party. When we first walked into the castle we were greeted by three of Disney’s finest villains: the Queen of Hearts, Drizella and Anastasia. We were given an ample amount of time to take pictures and socialize with all three of these characters.
Soon after our first experience with the villains in the lobby, we made our way up the stairs to the banquet hall and again, were greeted by two more characters: Captain Hook and Judge Frollo. At this time we didn’t stop to greet them but were instead escorted to our seats where we had all kinds of goodies and gifts. These included: a Maleficent dragon cup with candy, a Maleficent drink stirrer, poison apple glow-cube, commemorative menu and an autograph card with the villain’s signatures on it. As everyone made their way into the hall, Captain Hook and Judge Frollo made their way around to a few of the tables for pictures, but not all. If you wanted pictures with them, you had to approach them yourself. We were misinformed when we came in so we missed Judge Frollo, but it wasn’t too big of a deal because everyone else came around later on.
Once everyone was seated, Lady Tremaine opened the event with a special musical number and introduced the remaining villains who would be joining us for the evening. These villains included: the Evil Queen, Maleficent, Cruella De Ville, Dr. Facilier, Drizella and Anastasia. After their introduction, they spread themselves throughout the hall and started visiting each table.
I have to say this has been my favorite character “dining” experience I have ever done. The villains were absolutely amazing! They were quick-witted, respectful and spent plenty of time with each family. We actually had several of them stop by twice. This has been the most time I have ever really spent with any Disney character, especially with a villain. The villain experience alone makes this event worth every penny. They even took their time in helping calm a young boy down who at first was extremely scared, but in turn became very excited to visit with each one of them. These villains have been doing this for a very long time. They were ABSOLUTELY AMAZING and made this event truly unique and special.
I was amazed at how hard the dining staff and chefs worked on making our dining experience top notch as well. We had in our party a guest who had food allergies and couldn’t eat some of the food from the cheese and meats planner along with some of the desserts. The chef personally came out and talked with the guest and made their dessert to order. To our surprise the dessert came out at the same time as ours did. Our servers were constantly stopping by to make sure we had all the refills we wanted of Captain’s Not-So-Poisoned Potion drink and dessert/food we wanted. Five-star dining staff for sure!
Soon after we finished our cheese and meats planter four of the villains presented their own dessert selections to us (each dessert was a full size dessert). The desserts were: The Queen’s Bleeding Heart Apple (a white wine poached apple), Maleficent’s Dragon-Toasted Confection (pistachio mousse with crisp meringue), Dr. Facilier’s Chocolate Tarot Card (dark chocolate covered pecan praline with chocolate torte), and Cruella De Vil’s Spotted Chocolate Mousse Cake (101 layers of white chocolate and dark chocolate mousse with a hint of raspberry). The Queen’s Bleeding Heart Apple was interesting to say the least. I’m still not sure if I liked it or not but the rest of the desserts were pretty good.
I only see a few minor drawbacks about doing this event. Mainly this is because of the time constraints and not having as much flexibility to enjoy the party throughout the night. You will miss some of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party but as stated, if you do the later seating, you don’t have to miss much of the party.
Overall, the Villains’ Sinister Soiree is worth the extra $99 in addition to the cost of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The entire time we felt like we were the VIPs of the night and were given the best service possible. We got to experience one of the most unique experiences Disney Events has to offer. The desserts were delicious, the entertainment was awesome, and the highlight of the night being able to interact and mingle with Disney’s top villains was truly AWESOME! We had the most Villainous night we could have wished for!
– Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – 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, the Villains Castle Show 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.
Villains Mix and Mingle Live on Stage – Watch seven of your favorite Disney villains put on a frightful celebration in front of Cinderella’s castle. The villainous castle shows three times during the party, at 7:45 p.m., 8:55 p.m., and 10:00 p.m. This is a show you don’t want to miss, especially if you love villains.
Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade – Each Halloween party has two parades, the first one starting at 8:15 p.m. and the second one starting at 10:30 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.
Happy HalloWishes – These fireworks start at 9:30 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.
Character Dance Parties – These dance parties are a great way to take a load off and dance the night away with some of your favorite Monstrous and Villainous Disney 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.
The Monstrous Scream-O-Ween Ball Dance Party takes place in Frontierland in the Diamond Horseshoe. Lead by some of your favorite villains, this party is all about being bad and showing your villainous side. This is truly one of the best places to see a variety of villains. Cruella de Vil, Dr. Facilier, Frollo, Lady Tremaine and her two daughters Drusilla & Anastasia are found at this dance party.
Club Villain Dance Party takes place in Frontierland in the Diamond Horseshoe. Lead by some of your favorite villains this party is all about being bad and showing your villainous side. This is truly one of the best places to see a variety of villains. Cruella de Vil, Dr. Facilier, Frollo, Lady Tremaine and her to daughters Drusilla & Anastasia are found at this dance party.
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
Donald & Daisy – Located in Fantasyland near the entrance of the circus; Both are dressed in their 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
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.
Villains’ Sinister Soiree: A Wicked Takeover of Cinderella’s Castle
New this year to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in the Magic Kingdom Park is the devilish dessert party that will be taking place in Cinderella’s Castle. Lady Tremaine and her villainous friends have taken over Cinderella’s Castle and are having a delicious dessert party with wickedly fun entertainment and villainous character meet and greets.
The event will take place in the great halls of Cinderella’s Royal Table, which has been transformed into an upscale villainous room. Here guests will enjoy live music, which includes being serenaded with solos from Lady Tremaine herself. You’ll also enjoy an array of delectable desserts and specialty non-alcoholic beverages. Upon leaving the dessert party guests will receive an autograph card and a souvenir Maleficent dragon cup! As an added bonus to the dessert party, guests will have reserved seating for Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade and a reserved viewing area for HalloWishes, the nighttime spectacular.
For those Disney Villain Character fans there will be several of your favorite villains attending the dessert party. Those attending will be Lady Tremaine, The Queen of Hearts, Captain Hook, Frollo, Maleficent, Cruella, Facillier and the Evil Queen. An additional fee of $99 per person plus tax is required for this dessert party.
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
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
Villains’ Sinister Soiree: A Wicked Takeover of Cinderella’s Castle
New this year to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in the Magic Kingdom Park is the devilish dessert party that will be taking place in Cinderella’s Castle. Lady Tremaine and her villainous friends have taken over Cinderella’s Castle and are having a delicious dessert party with wickedly fun entertainment and villainous character meet and greets.
The event will take place in the great halls of Cinderella’s Royal Table, which has been transformed into an upscale villainous room. Here guests will enjoy live music, which includes being serenaded with solos from Lady Tremaine herself. You’ll also enjoy an array of delectable desserts and specialty non-alcoholic beverages. Upon leaving the dessert party guests will receive an autograph card and a souvenir Maleficent dragon cup! As an added bonus to the dessert party, guests will have reserved seating for Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade and a reserved viewing area for HalloWishes, the nighttime spectacular.
For those Disney Villain Character fans there will be several of your favorite villains attending the dessert party. Those attending will be Lady Tremaine, The Queen of Hearts, Captain Hook, Frollo, Maleficent, Cruella, Facillier and the Evil Queen. Most of these characters will not be doing meet and greets during the Halloween Party. This may be your only chance to see them.
Admission to the Villains’ Sinister Soiree: A Wicked Takeover of Cinderella Castle is available for $99 per person, plus tax (gratuity included). Guests are required to have already purchased admission to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Reservations can only be booked by calling in. To make a reservation, please call (407) 939-5262. Reservation are expected to go quickly, so don’t wait until the event to make a reservation.
The Dessert Soiree at Cinderella’s Royal Table, taking place at both 10:15 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. on September 1, 9 and 12, 2014; and at 10:15 p.m. only on September 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28 and October 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30 and 31, 2014.
To check in for the event, you will visit the main will call booth outside the main entrance of the Magic Kingdom park from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Starting at 7:30 pm. you can check-in at the parade and fireworks viewing area in the central plaza by the Castle Forecourt State. It is recommended you check in at will call for saving time and for convenience. Once you have checked in, you’ll receive a wristband, which must be presented to enter the preferred viewing areas and Cinderella’s Royal Table. You can also check in at Cinderella’s Royal Table if you don’t want to participate in the preferred seating extras for both the parade or fireworks.
For more information or to buy tickets to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party, please contact me at cody@woodbreyfamilytravel.com. I also book and plan trips to Disneyland and to the Disney Cruise Line.
– Cody Woodbrey
Characters From Disney’s “Big Hero 6” are Coming to Disney Parks
For those who know me, you know that I have a huge passion for all things Disney Characters. To go along with that, I love blogging about them too. For all things Disney Characters, I’m your man! My most popular blog post about characters is “Meeting Disney Characters 101”. This blog post walks you through the steps in having the best possible experience meeting your favorite characters.
There are some fantastic character experiences coming to the Disney parks and you can count on me to provide you with the most up-to-date information.
Hiro Hanada & his friend robot Baymax from Disney’s newest film “Big Hero 6″ will be making their first appearance at Disneyland and Walt Disney World this fall. Locations and exact dates for this meet and greet experience have not been released yet. More information will be released soon.”Big Hero 6” will be in theaters November 7, 2014.
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World this fall, please contact me and I’ll help book an amazing trip for you. cody@woodbreyfamilytravel.com
Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more great information on all things Disney Characters.
– Cody Woodbrey
Disney’s Villains Unleashed Event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Full Character List
Earlier this summer Disney Events announced their newest event, “Villains Unleashed”. Where over 50 Disney Villains will be running wild throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios causing mischief and mayhem. Below is the full list of Villains attending this event. Keep in mind characters are subject to change.
Click on the link for more information on the event – Disney’s Villains Unleashed Event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
List of Disney Villains Attending
- Maleficent – Sleeping Beauty
- Jafar – Aladdin
- Evil Queen – Snow White
- The Hag (Evil Queen transformed) – Snow White
- Shenzi – Hyenas from the Lion King
- Banzai – Hyenas from the Lion King
- Ed – Hyenas from the Lion King
- Sheriff of Nottingham – Robin Hood
- Prince John – Robin Hood
- Queen of Hearts – Alice in Wonderland
- Cheshire Cat – Alice in Wonderland
- Gaston – Beauty and the Beast
- Dr. Facilier – Princess and the Frog
- Oogie Boogie – Nightmare before Christmas
- Captain Hook – Peter Pan
- Mr. Smee – Peter Pan
- Hades – Hercules
- Meg – Hercules
- Pain – Hercules
- Panic – Hercules
- Br’re Bear – Song of the South
- Br’re Fox – Song of the South
- Barbosa – Pirates of the Caribbean
- Shan Yu – Mulan
- Lady Tramaine – Cinderella
- Anastasia – Cinderella
- Drizella – Cinderella
- Big Bad Wolf – The Three Little Pigs
- Foulfellow – Pinocchio
- Gideon – Pinocchio
- Stromboli – Pinocchio
- Yzma – Emperors New Groove
- Kronk – Emperors New Groove
- Cruella De Vil – 101 Datamations
- Horace – 101 Datamations
- Jasper- 101 Datamations
- Gov. Radcliffe – Pocahontas
- Frollo – The Hunchback of Notre Dame
- Bowler Hat Guy – Meet the Robisons
- Darth Vader – Star Wars
- Stormtroopers – Star Wars
- Emperor Palpatine – Star Wars
- Imperial Guard – Star Wars
- Jango Fett – Star Wars
- Boba Fett – Star Wars
- Darth Maul – Star Wars
- Zam Wensel – Star Wars
- Tusken Raider – Star Wars
- Guarian Guard – Star Wars
- Asajj Venturess – Star Wars
- Aurra Sing – Star Wars
- Jawa – Star Wars
This is one of the most anticipated events of the year and tickets are expected to sell out fairly quickly. Don’t be caught without a ticket! May your night be full of Villainous activities!
– Cody Woodbrey
“Frozen Summer Fun” Premium Package Now Available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The popular Disney animated film “Frozen” is coming to life like never before with all-new, immersive experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during “Frozen Summer Fun!”
And, now through Sept. 1, 2014 (with the exception of Aug. 23), you can reserve viewing for three of the park’s most anticipated new experiences with the “Frozen Summer Fun Premium Package.”
The fun begins during Anna and Elsa’s Royal Welcome, a procession down Hollywood Boulevard welcoming the visiting royalty to the kingdom of Hollywoodland. Then, you can cool down inside Premiere Theatre during For the First Time in Forever: A “Frozen” Sing-Along Celebration, featuring the music from the film’s chart-topping soundtrack. And, to wrap up the day’s festivities, you will enjoy an exclusive dessert party in a reserved area for a viewing of the “Frozen” Fireworks Spectacular.
The “Frozen Summer Fun Premium Package” costs $59 for adults and $34 for children (including tax and gratuity). Discounts do not apply. Park admission is required. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. The number of packages available each day is limited.
– Cody Woodbrey
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Photo Credits: Tyler Mower, Cami Grudzinski & Disney
Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park
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.
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 1 hour before the Party Starts
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.
Mickey’s Halloween Parade runs twice nightly
Join Mickey and his friends all dressed up for the holiday in this haunted musical Cavalcade down Main Street. Floats will celebrate the “fun of dressing up,” including a Haunted Castle Float decorated by Mickey with bats, ghosts, spider webs, pumpkins and skulls. This is not the same parade as done during the day.
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!
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!
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.
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, please contact me for more information and deals.
Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Halloween Party Tickets Go on Sale for Disneyland on July 16
The Disneyland Resort is about to get a little bit spookier this fall. Halloween Time starts at the Disneyland Resort on September 12th and runs through October 31st. Mickey’s Halloween Party will run on select nights for 14 nights at the Disneyland Park.
Halloween Time features the popular seasonal attractions such as the transformation of the Haunted Mansion to the loved Night Before Christmas Holiday Mansion, and Space Mountain to Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. There will also be some of your favorite Disney Villains. Mickey Mouse and his friends will all be dressed in their Halloween costumes during the party!
Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets go on sale:
- July 16 – For Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders, Disney Rewards Visa Cardholders, and Disney Vacation Club Members
- July 30 – General public
- Tickets can be purchased through Wish Upon a Star with Cody.
Mickey’s Halloween Party 2014 dates:
Friday, September 26; Tuesday, September 30; Friday, October 3; Monday, October 6; Wednesday, October 8; Friday, October 10; Tuesday, October 14; Friday, October 17; Monday, October 20; Wednesday, October 22; Friday, October 24; Monday, October 27; Wednesday, October 29; and Friday, October 31.
Return back to Wish Upon a Blog with Cody later this week for more information on Mickey’s Halloween Party.
If you are planning a trip to Disneyland, please contact me for more information and deals.
– Cody Woodbrey
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