Blog Archives
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
2017 Disneyland Resort Vacation Packages Now Available!
We are excited to announce the 2017 Disneyland Resort vacation packages are now open for booking. Each package will include accommodations at one of the three Disneyland Resort hotels, or at a nearby Good Neighbor Hotels. Packages will include souvenir tickets with Magic Morning Entry, Magical Extras Savings Card, Disneyland Photo Memory, ESPN Game Card and Burger, as well as a collectible pin, lanyard and luggage tags per guest. All kids traveling will receive autograph books and pens as well.
Please contact us for additional information or to book your next Dream vacation to Disneyland.
Cody Woodbrey
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – 2015 Ticket Pricing
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… For full details of the event click on the following link – Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – Full Event Details
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates for 2015
This year’s parties start at 7 p.m.-midnight on November 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20 and December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 18.
Ticket Pricing:
- November 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19; December 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15 – Advance: $74 (plus tax) for adults; $69 (plus tax) for children (ages 3-9); Day of the Event: $79 (plus tax) for adults; $74 (plus tax) for children (ages 3-9)
- November 20, 29; December 4, 11, 17 – $79 (plus tax) for adults; $74 (plus tax) for children (ages 3-9)
- December 18 – $82 (plus tax) for adults; $77 (plus tax) for children (ages 3-9)
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
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
Top 5 Reasons why Adventure Guides are the BEST Part of an Adventures by Disney Vacation
Imagine this: You spend all night on a flight between New York City and Bergen, Norway. You finally arrive, gather your luggage, and exit the terminal. Right at the exit, there is someone waiting for you with a big Adventures by Disney sign. You approach him, and he greets you with a big smile. He quickly calls over a driver who takes your luggage for you and whisks you away to your hotel in a private vehicle. You get to the hotel and there to greet you, are two Adventure Guides with a big welcome packet full of goodies. Your luggage is taken to your room and you don’t have to handle it again until you return to the airport to go home. What happens between arrival and departure is magical, and it’s due in large part to the Adventure Guides.
Adventures by Disney can take you to nearly every corner of the world, but there is one thing that is the same on every trip: Disney’s famous customer service. On an Adventures by Disney trip, this comes in the form of two highly trained “Adventure Guides.” Not only will your Adventure Guides take care of EVERY detail, they will also ensure you’re immersed in the culture and traditions of whatever area you choose to visit.
In this installment of Travel Advice by Cody, you will learn why the Adventure Guides are the best part of an Adventures by Disney vacation.
#1: You get TWO Adventure Guides and one is a LOCAL!
It is fairly uncommon in a group travel setting to have two tour guides, and it made a world of difference. Depending on which Adventure you choose, the number of people allowed on the trip will vary, but will never be more than 40. Having a ratio of 20 guests to 1 guide, is almost unheard of.
When my wife and I traveled with Adventures by Disney to Norway, our two Adventure Guides were named Kira and Torgeir (pronounced Tour-Guy). Kira was from the United States and had been a Walt Disney World cast member for several years. She had also been doing Adventures by Disney tours during the summer months for at least five years. She was a pro at handling anything and everything. Torgeir was from Norway. In fact, he was from one of the villages we traveled to during the week. He was a tourism major at a local university looking to gain some good experience during his summer break.
We LOVED having a local as one of our Adventure Guides. It made an incredible difference as we learned about the country and the culture. We went on our adventure with several other travel agents, writers, and a talk show host and crew, and let me tell you, Torgeir was asked everything imaginable. He knew almost everything, but if he didn’t know, he found out. It was also pretty special because as we adventured around Torgeir’s “hometown” we could see his farm on side of the fjord and his mother came out to wave at us one afternoon. It really made everything much more personal and authentic having a local as an Adventure Guide. As we understand it, if Adventures by Disney can, they will always have a local as one of the Adventure Guides.
Kira was no slouch either. She made sure all the details were taken care of. As a seasoned Adventure Guide, it felt like she could see things from a mile away. She took care of everything from providing the hand sanitizer “flavor of the day,” snacks on the bus, sticky buns from the local bakery, toilet money when there was a charge, etc., etc., etc. No kidding, she thought of everything. She even had Tinkerbell deliver a six pack of Diet Coke to someone’s door every morning when they mentioned in passing that they were sad they couldn’t find it in Norway. Somehow, “Tinkerbell” found it and had it waiting for him every morning. Service like that just can’t be beat.
#2: Your Adventure Guides take pictures and you get them for FREE!
Every family has that one person who spends the entire vacation behind a camera. On an Adventures by Disney trip, that will still likely be the case, but your Adventure Guides are there to help. Consequently, you will likely have more than a few pictures with the ENTIRE family.
On our trip to Norway, Kira and Torgeir each had their own waterproof digital camera and were constantly snapping pictures. This was particularly helpful during our water adventures when we didn’t want to take our personal camera. The best part though? On an Adventures by Disney trip, all pictures taken by the Adventure Guides are available after the trip free of charge.
Near the end of our trip, our Adventure Guides also printed out a few pictures for every family that were actually postcards so we could send them home if we chose. They also put together a slide show that we watched at our farewell dinner on the last night using the pictures they took.
Reason 3: Your Adventure Guides pay all the gratuities along the way
Before our trip to Norway, we received a booklet outlining everything about the trip including what to pack, expected weather conditions, a basic itinerary and tipping guidelines. We were told specifically not to tip drivers, bellmen, or excursion guides. This felt so uncomfortable at first! However, it became very obvious very fast that between the number of people our group interacted with, that it was a major convenience for us as travelers, not to have to tip everyone we came in contact with.
For example, on the mornings we would be transferring to another hotel, we would put our luggage out in the hall and it would “magically” get loaded on the bus. We stayed in four hotels, and never handled our own luggage and never tipped a single bellman.
We also went on at least one excursion each day, i.e. rafting, fjord safari, stave church tours, etc. We never had to worry about tipping those guides. We could just focus on enjoying what was around us and the amazing experience we were having.
That being said, it is suggested that you tip your Adventure Guides at the end of the trip. However, suggested amounts are outlined in the adventure booklet you will receive and it’s fairly straight forward. Besides that though, we did not have to worry about tipping anyone, and it was awesome.
Reason 4: The EXTRAS no one expects
Periodically throughout our trip, our Adventure Guides would pull out something unexpected. For instance, for every day of the trip, a special pin exclusive to that particular Adventure by Disney vacation is given to the guests. The Adventure Guides would typically give them to one of our excursion guides to give to us as the perfect moment during the day.
At least one night during the trip, the Adventure Guides take the junior adventurers (your kids) to have a party of their own. What?! A night to yourselves on a family vacation?! That’s just plain awesome. Not to mention, what the kids get to do is pretty fun. On our trip, they made all sorts of American food (a refreshing sight after eating nothing but local cuisine), did karaoke, troll making, and other fun games and activities. Your kids won’t miss you while you take some time to yourself and it’s all thanks to the Adventure Guides.
On our adventure, we spent a fair amount of time traveling on the nicest motor coach Norway had to offer. It had Wi-Fi, plugs for electronics, and was very comfortable for a bus. However, it was still a bus. Kira and Torgeir would periodically get on the microphone and tell us about where we were going, or what was right outside our window. That was very nice, but also expected. However, what were not expected were the games they played with us along the way to break up the monotony. We played everything from Disney trivia to “Name that TV show.” Overall, they did their very best to make the not-so-fun bus rides, a very memorable part of the trip.
Reason 5: They become your friends
Almost like magic, Kira and Torgeir learned our names very quickly. Our adventure had the maximum number of people allowed at 40, and no kidding, less than two days into the trip, they knew everyone’s name. Not only did they know our names, but they treated us like friends and family. They weren’t afraid to share about themselves and were curious to learn about us as well. To be made to feel important was truly one of the best parts of this trip. With group travel, it is easy to fade into in consequence, but Kira and Torgeir did an incredible job at helping everyone feel they were important and that they were glad we were with them.
Our Adventure Guides truly made our Adventures by Disney trip one of the best vacations we have ever had. If you choose to go on an Adventures by Disney vacation, I can almost guarantee you will feel the same.
– Cody Woodbrey
Top 18 Reasons to Cruise with Disney
If you have never considered a Disney Cruise, now is the time! If you have any doubts, check out my top 18 reasons to cruise with Disney and you are sure to change your mind.
1. Disney Cruise Line is the top rated and award winning cruise line in the World
2. Staterooms on average are 20% larger than other cruise lines
3. Disney is the only cruise line who does fireworks at sea
4. Main Dining features Disney’s innovative Rotational Dining system which lets you “rotate” to one of 3 distinctly themed restaurants each night, for your main dining experience your servers follow you from venue to venue. No other Cruise line does this and you never have to wait to be seated or for another family to finish eating
5. Disney Cruise Line ships include state-of-the art theatre spaces that showcase live shows and first-run films during your cruise
6. Disney has award winning Broadway-caliber, Disney-themed live shows for the entire family that you simply won’t find anywhere else
7. There is no extra charges for a soda or ice cream – Many cruise lines charge extra for these features
8. All port and fuel charges are included in the price – no secret charges down the road
9. Disney has their own private island, Disney’s Castaway Cay where they provide food and adventures for everybody for free. No extra charge!
10. All Disney Cruise Line shows are appropriate for the whole family, even for the adults
11. Disney is the only cruise line who has a water-coaster at sea, the “AquaDuck” and all the pools on board are fresh water… No salt water here!
12. Disney Cruise Line provides two portable phones per room called wave phones, to carry around the ship to help keep you in touch with other people in your party, at no added charge
13. Room service is completely free
14. The Disney Cruise Line has created fun and adventures for all ages, including adults!
15. All Kids activities on the ship are included. No other cruise line comes close to the array of activities and the caliber of youth counselors
16. Disney’s dedication to detail keeps their ships particularly clean
17. There is not a casino on board and there is only one area on the ship where smoking is allowed
18. There are several adult-only areas including a swimming pool, jacuzzis, sun decks, and lounges. Special adult-only shows are offered every night. Don’t worry! They are still clean and to “Disney” standards
– 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
Norway – A “Frozen” Adventure by Disney
When people think of Disney travel there are often several stereotypes that come to mind. Most people think of the famous Disney theme parks, particularly Disneyland and the Walt Disney World Resort. The stereotypes associated with these parks include attractions with long lines (hint: there is no need to stand in line, contact me the next time you go for help not to), parades, music, characters, and world-class service. Granted, for most people this is exactly what they want for their Disney vacation. However, few people realize that Disney travel extends far beyond the theme parks. In fact, Disney travel can take you to nearly every corner of the planet. How, you ask? Adventures by Disney!
This past summer I was granted the immense honor and pleasure of being invited on an Adventures by Disney trip to the magical land that inspired the world phenomenon “Frozen,” – Norway! When my wife and I were invited, we were floored. We have known about Adventures by Disney since it was launched and have spent quite a bit of time dreaming where we would like to go with them. Needless to say, it didn’t take us long to decide to accept the invitation and go.
Adventures by Disney offers everything from long weekend trips in New York City, to 12-day vacations in China and almost everything in between. Adventures by Disney trips are similar to other tour operators in that you are traveling with a group as large as 40. However, since Disney is in charge and has put their name to these vacations, you can rest assured that you will be kept in as luxurious of circumstances as possible at your destination.
For us, our vacation was eight days, seven nights in Norway – the land of fjords, trolls, lots of sheep and goats, and brown cheese. My wife and I learned as soon as we were picked up from the airport in a private car, that this was not going to be any ordinary tour of Norway. We were treated to the finest accommodations; our Adventure Guides would have, and did, bend over backwards for us, we were treated to the best daily excursions in the country, and all was done while we dove headfirst into the country’s beauty and culture.
In looking back over our trip, I can honestly say it was truly incredible. Over the next few blog posts, I will try to convey what it really means to take an Adventure by Disney. If you’ve ever wondered about Adventures by Disney, or if it is right for your family, my hope is that my experience with them will help you understand what you can expect from every angle possible.
For now, enjoy a few sneak peak photos and stay tuned for my next blog post dedicated to helping you learn about the Adventure.
– Cody Woodbrey
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. Disney 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.
– Cody Woodbrey
Osborn Family Spectacle of Lights at Disney Hollywood Studios
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights has become a tradition for many families and guests traveling to the Walt Disney World Resort. Located in the back of Disney Hollywood Studios on the Streets of America hang over 5 million multicolored lights, covering every building top to bottom. There are literally hundreds of displays to see as you walk along the streets. You will see things like a twirling carousel, Santa and his reindeer, flying angels, toy soldiers, snowmen, bells, a giant rotating globe with Peace on Earth displayed across it, 42 hidden Mickeys, and of course, the traditional manger scene.
Disney didn’t just stop with the millions of lights, but it has synchronized the lights to high-energy traditional Christmas music while covering their guests with some light snow flurries. That’s right. Disney makes it snow the entire night. Each night they go through about 100 gallons of snow fluid and have 66 snow machines to create this winter wonderland. It is the best light display and show you will ever see.
Can you imagine how long it would take to hang over 5 million lights stretching over 10 miles, including rope lights, 130 angels, a hundred different displays, and 32 miles of extension cables? Well, they start putting everything together starting in August and continue almost every day up to the opening night. Pretty amazing if you ask me!
It all started with a father’s Christmas gift to his daughter in the town of Little Rock, Arkansas. Each year he would put up more lights and more displays. When he ran out of room he bought the two houses next to his so he could expand his display. Well, his neighbors didn’t like it very much, so through a court battle he had to take it all down. This is where the Walt Disney Company stepped in and continued their fun and exciting tradition. It was only in 2006 they synchronized everything to music.
In addition to everything else, each year Disney cast members hide a purple cat, and guests try to find where they put him. The cat is one of the original displays from the Osborne family. Most of the displays were replaced or updated throughout the years. The Osborne Spectacle of Lights really is something everyone needs to experience, at least once in his or her lifetime.
– 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
‘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
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2014 Event Park Map
Here’s an early look at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2014 Event park map, enjoy!
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
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
25 Fun Facts About the Disney Magic
- Maiden Voyage: July 30, 1998 – 4 Night Bahamian Cruise
- Passenger Capacity: 2,400
- Gross Tonnage: 84,000 Tons
- Length: 964 ft, Beam: 106 ft, Draft: 25.3 ft
- Speed: Cruising Speed 21.5 Knots – Max Speed 24 Knots
- Crew: 950 Cast Members on board at all times
- Godmother of the ship is Patricia Disney, Former wife of Roy E. Disney
- Goofy is painting the back of the ship – Each ship has a different character
- The Magic is longer than Main Street U.S.A at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World
- There are 877 Staterooms – Inside: 256, Oceanview: 259 and Verandah 362
- The ship horn whistles “When You Wish Upon a Star”
- Lobby Statue is Helmsman Mickey Mouse
- On an average 7-Night cruise, over 71,500 eggs and are consumed
- The ship can make 1,200 tons of fresh water from seawater each day
- The ship has 11 decks
- One anchor alone weighs 28,200 pounds
- On arrival day, cast members will transport approximately 10,000 suitcases
- The Disney Magic was built in two halves about 100 miles apart
- The Magic was the first cruise ship to ever have split bathrooms for guests
- The Disney Magic was just recently renovated in October of 2013. Some of the new highlights include; The AquaDunk water slide, new Brazilian-themed restaurant, a new kid’s club, new splash zone water play areas and new adult nightclubs.
- Wood is used throughout the whole ship, which is rare for newer ships
- On average there are over 86 nationalities of cast members
- 70% of staterooms have a view of the Ocean and 60% of them have a private verandah
- All pools are filled with freshwater and are heated to 75 Degrees
- The Walt Disney Theatre can seat 977 guests and expands three decks
– Cody Woodbrey
Woodbrey Family Travel Blog 